V17I6 (Dec/Jan 2015-16)

ANIMAL WELLNESS W

-VY H SVUN OLHS[O` SPML

Holiday issue

WINTER FITNESS TIPS FOR YOU AND FIDO

10 TIPS for a stress-free & safe holiday Getting to the root of

FOOD

ALLERGIES THE HEALING EFFECTS OF MUSIC

Dealing with

IBD DEC 2015/JAN 2016 Display until January 18, 2016

$6.95 USA/Canada

The Pointer Brothers

Meet Gus and Travis, a pair of photogenic German short-haired pointers whose love for the camera has transformed them into social media darlings.

plus

Holiday recipes

MLSPUL WELLNESS MLSPUL WELLNESS /PW JVVS HUK OLHS[O`

/PW JVVS HUK OLHS[O`

TOP 12

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

ARE YOU IMMUNE CHALLENGED?

for a healthier, happier kitty

Don’t worry – you don’t have to give up your cat! 5 easy ways to minimize your risk of catching an infection from Fluffy

NAUGHTY

KITTY! Use positive reinforcement to get a “bad” cat back on her best behavior

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 6

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

VENUS

THE “TWO-FACED” CAT

This rare feline attracts double takes (no pun intended!) wherever she goes. Now world-famous, she’s doing her part to promote animal rescue.

BONUS BONUS BON NUS SINSIDE!

animal wellness

89

2

animal wellness

animal wellness

3

Contents December 2015/January 2016

56

Features

18 5 HEALTHY HOLIDAY TREATS

These home-baked goodies will be a hit with your four-legged companions! Prep and cook time is minimal, which works well around hectic holiday schedules.

22 WINTER FITNESS TIPS

FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG

If the return of colder weather turns you both into couch potatoes, here are some creative ways to keep yourselves moving, both indoors or out.

26 DEALING WITH IBD

This common gastrointestinal problem can make him (and you) miserable, but with the right treatment, your companion can lead a normal life.

29 OLD DOGS (AND CATS)

CAN LEARN “NEW TRICKS”

An interest in senior animals led to an innovative supplement that helps improve memory and cognition.

30 GETTING TO THE ROOT OF FOOD ALLERGIES

An elimination diet is the best way to go. These novel foods will get you started.

33 TOP 10 TIPS FOR A SAFE AND STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY SEASON

Ensuring that your four-legged friend stays healthy and happy during this busy time of year pays off bigtime.

38 MRSA IN DOGS Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcal aureus usually manifests as severe skin infections in canines.

Treatment requires an integrative approach.

48 HELP HIM STAY

IN CONDITION WITH ACUPRESSURE

Add acupressure to your dog’s exercise regime, and you’ll give him the edge he needs to advance to new levels of conditioning.

52 THE HEALING EFFECTS OF MUSIC

Studies have shown playing the right tunes can have a powerful calming influence on dogs and cats.

56 COVER STORY THE POINTER BROTHERS

These Instagram sensations loved striking a pose together, especially during the holidays!

62 STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY TRAVEL

Taking your dog on a road trip to visit friends or family this festive season (or any other time)? This checklist will help ensure everything goes smoothly.

65 MEAT OF THE MATTER

Sustainably-raised, grass-fed meats form the foundation of this company’s pet food products.

68 FEEDING YOUR DOG

FROM A TCVM PERSPECTIVE

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine teaches that foods affect the body in multiple ways. Feeding your dog using this approach can enhance his well-being.

74 URINARY INCONTINENCE

It’s more than just a nuisance, and can have many causes. A successful resolution depends on the right diagnosis and treatment.

78 CANDLE SAFETY FOR YOUR COMPANION

It involves more than keeping burning candles out of his reach. What they’re made of is also of paramount importance.

4

animal wellness

90 TOP NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER KITTY

She might not care that it’s 2016, but resolving to make some improvements to her lifestyle means you’ll both enjoy the benefits.

92 LIVING WITH CATS WHEN YOU’RE IMMUNOCOMPROMISED

If you have a weakened immune system, you can contract infections from your cat, but that doesn’t mean you have to get rid of him! Here are 5 easy ways to minimize your risk.

94 IS YOUR KITTY BEING NAUGHTY?

Don’t punish her! Positive reinforcement is the best way to coax her back to good behavior.

96 VENUS…SHE WAS “BORN THIS WAY”!

Her bi-colored face attracts attention wherever she goes. Now world-famous, this laid-back kitty with the loving personality is helping to promote animal rescue.

52

30 18 Columns

12 Yakkity yak 42 Rewind 46 Warm & fuzzy 60 Passages

33

66 To the rescue 82 Book reviews 88 Tail end

94

Departments 8

Social media Tips, contests and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine Tips, pet photos, and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine Crafts, laughs, and more!

AnimalWellness

Editorial

40

Product picks

54

The scoop

72

Animal Wellness resource guide

81

Social media

84

Marketplace

87

Events calendar

87

ClassiďŹ eds animal wellness

5

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 6

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: Kait Gambier Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustrations: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: Steph McCombie Feline Cover Image courtesy of: C hristina, Venus' guardian

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

Steph McCombie With their snazzy bowties, Gus and Travis are ready to ring in the New Year! These two elegant German short-haired pointers loved hamming it up for the camera, and their perfect poses featuring a range of fun props and costumes made them famous on Instagram. Though Travis sadly passed from cancer at the end of July, his legacy lives on through the many whimsical portraits of him and Gus taken by their doting guardian, Steph McCombie. Read the full story on page 56.

ON THE FELINE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

Christina, Venus' guardian

You’d be forgiven for thinking someone has Photoshopped this cat’s face – but you’d also be wrong! Venus was actually born this way, and her rare bi-colored visage and different-hued eyes have made her world famous. Add to her unique appearance a sweet and amiable disposition, and a passion for animal rescue shared by her person, Christina, and it’s not surprising that she has thousands of fans. Read all about her on page 96.

6

animal wellness

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nadia Ali Sally E. Bahner Claudia Bensimoun Carmen Colitz, PhD, DACVO Audi Donamor Janice Huntingford, DVM Deva Khalsa, VMD Ingrid King Louisa Lew A. D. Major Ramona D. Marek, MS Ed Erin Mayo, DVM Shawn Messonnier DVM Judy Morgan, DVM Brenda Mortimer Sandra Murphy Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Amy Snow Sherri A. Stanczak Susan Wagner Charlotte Walker Tonya Wilhelm Nancy Zidonis ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Karen Jeffries 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.

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES National Accounts Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Multimedia Specialist: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Marketing/Retail Specialist: Michelle Macaulay, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 michelle@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 115 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers.

Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call Libby at 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: November 2015.

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

EDITORIAL

Holiday traditions

are meaningful for all

At a recent family get-together, we got laughing about the family tradition of hanging up Christmas stockings, and how our little Bichon Frise always knew which one was hers. She would watch her stocking for days before the big event, patiently lying in wait underneath it. We still wonder how she knew which one was hers; after all, the stocking only made an appearance for a couple of weeks out of the year.

a safe and stress-free season, and try making some healthy festive dog and cat treats, courtesy of veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker. If you’re doing any traveling with your dog, our checklist of tips will help ensure the trip goes smoothly and enjoyably for everyone.

And raise a glass to our cover dogs, The Pointer Brothers, a pair of photogenic German short-haired pointers who loved dressing up for the holidays (and any other special occasion!).

The tradition of Christmas stockings for the four-legged kids continues in my own family. Our human kids are quite diligent about ensuring their furry siblings’ stockings are hung with just as much care as their own. It makes for a very crowded and festive fireplace, and it definitely boosts the excitement level in our home.

It also warms my heart to see our dogs’ and cat’s anticipation and love of the season shine as brightly as our own.

With the arrival of the New Year, why not resolve to keep your dog (and yourself) fit over the winter with some fun exercise ideas for indoors and out? We also take a look at how music can help calm and heal your animal (especially useful if he develops cabin fever when the weather outside is nasty!). On the nutrition front, you won’t want to miss Audi Donamor’s advice on feeding animals with allergies, and Dr. Judy Morgan’s article on how Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine can be used to help tailor the right diet for your dog.

In this holiday issue of Animal Wellness, we celebrate the gift of companionship our animals bring to our lives. As always, this issue is full of fun and helpful information. To get you and your fourlegged friends into the holiday spirit, check out our top ten tips for

Our Feline Wellness bonus section highlights a very unique kitty named Venus, whose unusual bi-colored face has made her world famous. And start 2016 off on the right paw with our top New Year’s resolutions for a healthier, happier cat, and some suggestions on how to use positive reinforcement to put an end to unwanted behaviors in your feline.

Have a safe and healthy holiday season, and a Happy New Year!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

8

animal wellness

animal wellness

9

CONTRIBUTORS

1

5

2

3

4

6

7

8

1. Veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford is a graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, and certified in animal chiropractic and acupuncture. She received her certification in Veterinary Rehabilitation through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, and opened Ontario’s first salt water canine therapy pool and rehabilitation center. Dr. Huntingford is a Certified TCVM Practitioner, a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner, and recently became a board certified specialist by earning a Diplomate from the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. She practices integrative medicine in Essex, Ontario (essexanimalhospital.ca). On page 74, Dr. Huntingford discusses incontinence.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa authored Dr. Khalsa’s The Natural Dog and co-authored Healing Your Horse: Alternative Therapies. She lectures internationally and is a professor at the British Institute of Homeopathy. She has almost 30 years of experience in holistic modalities. For our “Rewind” column this issue (page 42), Dr. Khalsa offers 10 tips for a healthy life for dogs and cats.

3. 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 provides holistic and TCVM services for companion animals in central New Jersey. Read Dr. Mayo’s article about IBD on page 26.

4. 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

10

animal wellness

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 38 for his look at MRSA in dogs.

5. Veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan is certified in acupuncture, food therapy and chiropractic care for dogs and cats. A sought-after speaker and blogger, she integrates Eastern and Western medicine at her two practices in New Jersey (drjudymorgan.com). She has authored two books -- From Needles to Natural: Learning Holistic Pet Healing and What's For Dinner Dexter? Cooking For Your Dog Using Chinese Medicine Theory. Turn to page 68 for her article on using TCVM to feed dogs.

6. 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). Dr. Becker shares healthy holiday treats on page 18.

7. Veterinarian Dr. Susan Wagner is a veterinary neurologist and pioneer in the area of the humananimal bond. She offers integrative medicine at MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets, and is a Healing Touch for Animals practitioner. She is an adjunct faculty member at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and co-author of Through a Dog’s Ear. On page 52, Dr. Wagner discusses the healing benefits of music for animals.

8. Audi Donamor has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for nearly 20 years. She founded 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 30 for Audi’s advice on feeding allergic animals.

9. Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow are 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 provides hands-on and online training courses, 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 888-841-7211, animalacupressure.com or Tallgrass@animalacupressure.com. See page 48 for their article on acupressure for working dogs.

10. Tonya Wilhelm is a dog behavior specialist and focuses on treating dogs holistically. She has written Proactive Puppy Care, Please Stay -- Help For A Dog With Separation Anxiety and co-authored What's For Dinner, Dexter? Cooking For Your Dog Using Chinese Medicine Theory. She presents dog behavior seminars that promote positive and effective dog training. and offers in-person, phone and video training. On page 68, Tonya discusses how using a TCVM perspective to feed her dog Dexter helped him get healthy.

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

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

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 90), Sally offers ten top New Year’s tips for your cat.

12. Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living, Feline Style. Her popular blog, The Conscious Cat, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid is also the

Cat Expert for Answers.com, and the publisher of online magazine News for You and Your Pet. Check out her article on page 92 about living with cats if you’re immune-compromised.

13. Ramona D. Marek is an award-winning freelance writer, and a member and former director of the Cat Writers’ Association. She writes on various topics, including animal health and welfare. She finds inspiration in her two feline muses, Tsarevich Ivan, a pedigreed Siberian, and Natasha Fatale, a full-time diva adopted from the local shelter. On page 62, read her article about dog-friendly travel.

14. Nadia Ali is a freelance writer who was born in London, England and now lives on the Caribbean

CONTRIBUTORS

9

island of Trinidad. She is inspired by Cici, her family cat. Her work has been published online and in print. In this issue (page 94), Nadia shows you how to use positive reinforcement to curb unwanted feline behaviors.

15. Claudia Bensimoun is a freelance writer in West Palm Beach who specializes in writing about dogs and horses. Check out her article on candle safety around animals (page 78).

Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she's not writing, she works as a pet sitter. Turn to page 22 for her tips on winter fitness for you and your dog.

animal wellness

11

YAKKITY YAK HERO DOG OF THE YEAR Harley, a tiny Chihuahua who spent the first ten years of his life in a small cage at a puppy mill, was recognized as American Hero Dog for 2015 at the American Humane Association’s annual awards gala on September 19. His campaign, "Harley to the Rescue", has raised more than $500,000 to help the non-profit organization National Mill Dog Rescue save hundreds of dogs suffering in puppy mills. On several occasions, Harley traveled into the Midwest with the NMDR rescue team and is responsible for bringing more than 500 dogs to freedom.

"Ten years in utter misery did not break this little dog's indomitable spirit,” says NMDR founder, Theresa Strader. “Once rescued, Harley quickly taught his family the deepest meaning of resilience and forgiveness and soon became the 'little dog with a big dream' – to end puppy mills forever. Harley's personal appearances and educational efforts through social media and beyond have taught thousands of people around the world the truth about pet store puppies.” herodogawards.org

Harley spent ten years at a puppy mill, and is now a "spokesdog" for hundreds of other puppy mill dogs who have been rescued thanks to him.

A PILOT WITH A BIG HEART We’ve all heard the bad news stories about dogs and cats dying during flights due to negligence, so it’s wonderful to be able to share a positive story about airlines and animals. On September 17, an Air Canada flight from Tel Aviv to Toronto was diverted to Frankfurt to save the life of a little French bulldog named Simba.

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed that the heating system in the cargo hold wasn’t working, which meant Simba would be exposed to dangerously low temperatures. Concerned about the dog’s safety and comfort, the pilot made the decision to touch down in Frankfurt where Simba was transferred to another flight and later reunited with his guardian at Toronto’s Pearson Airport. Though the detour added almost an hour and a half to the overall flight, none of the passengers complained.

12

animal wellness

A stylish new bed makes a

great gift

for your dog or cat.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LASSIE! When author Eric Knight published a short story called “Lassie Come-Home” in the Saturday Evening Post in 1938, he had no idea how popular it would be. He subsequently expanded it into a full-length novel which was published in 1940. It instantly became a best seller, and was later adapted to the silver screen and then to television, exposing a whole new generation to the beloved canine’s adventures.

Knight, who was tragically killed in a plane crash in 1943, would probably be amazed to learn that his fictional canine still has legions of fans today, three-quarters of a century after he first created her. To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the novel’s publication, Macmillan has issued a special edition of the volume with an updated jacket, as well as an illustrated picture book for younger readers.

They’re available at major bookstores and through Amazon.

BEST CITIES FOR ANIMAL LOVERS Is your community animal-friendly? WalletHub recently compared the 100 largest cities in the US, using criteria ranging from the number of veterinarians, animal-friendly hotels and other pet businesses per capita, to the number of dog parks and trails in the area. Here’s their list of the top ten cities for animal lovers:

 Cincinnati, OH  St. Louis, MO  Colorado Springs, CO  Tampa, FL  Richmond, VA  Tulsa, OK  Las Vegas, NV  Reno, NV  Boise City, ID  Madison, WI

For the complete report, visit wallethub.com/edu/best-and-worst-cities-forpet-lovers/5562.

DOGS ARE THE BEST TEACHERS While humans are capable of cruelty, greed and deception, they also possess positive characteristics like kindness, compassion and empathy. Are those good traits nurtured in us by our parents, or do we arrive on the planet genetically predisposed for them? Scientists may be finding the answers by concentrating on animals.

Another reason geneticists like to study dogs is that, as species go, they are relatively young – tens of thousands as opposed to millions of years old – which means fewer DNA changes between dogs and their wolf ancestors have had time to develop. That makes it easier to track genetic changes to determine what genes affect behaviors.

“The idea that we could learn about kindness or compassion peterschattner.com by studying animals might seem strange,” says Peter Schattner, scientist, educator and author of Sex, Love and DNA: What Molecular Biology Teaches Us About Being Human. “But since similar genes are often found in animals and people, what we learn from animals may well be relevant to understanding human behavior as well.”

Dogs are especially good subjects from which to learn about kindness, devotion and other pro-social traits because they have been genetically bred to display those traits. “Dogs are the result of an extended genetic ‘experiment’ carried out by humans to artificially select the very personality traits that we value in them,” says Schattner. animal wellness

13

YAKKITY YAK LEECHES MAKE A COMEBACK Using leeches in medicine sounds downright medieval, but there’s real value in the practice, according to veterinarians such as Dr. Anemone Andronescu of BluePearl Veterinary Partners. One of her patients, an eight-year-old chow/border collie mix named Kojak, had a post-surgical wound on his leg that wasn’t healing properly, so Dr. Andronescu used leeches to decrease the swelling. They effectively sucked up the stagnant blood that was pooling under the skin flap covering the wound, and helped promote the flow of fresh, oxygenated blood.

Leeches were used to help treat a wound on Kojak's leg that wasn't healing properly.

“I’ve been really pleased by the way he responded to the treatment,” says Dr. Andronescu. An additional benefit reported by Kojak’s guardian, Cheryl Jordana, was that her dog tolerated the leeches much better than he did other aspects of his treatment.

Add a dash ROOTING FOR RUBY Ruby is a pit bull who was born two years ago with a severe cleft lip and palate.

Left untreated, she wouldn’t have survived long, since there was a high risk that food, water and debris could have ended up in her nasal passages and lungs, causing infections and possibly even pneumonia.

Rescued by Jenn Clayton, the founder of the Utah Animal Advocacy Foundation, Ruby began her life being tube-fed, since she couldn’t suckle like a normal puppy.

When she was almost four months old, she underwent surgery at Penn Vet’s Ryan Hospital to repair her cleft palate so she could eat and drink normally. Her cleft lip was left as is since it wasn’t causing her any problems. The operation was a success, and Ruby is now a happy, healthy dog with a unique smile! vet.upenn.edu

14

animal wellness

of cinnamon to your dog’s food now and then – this

warming spice also contains

antioxidants.

animal wellness

15

YAKKITY YAK FIRE SAFETY FOR FIDO AND FLUFFY A news item this past summer featured a Portland man who • Leave animals in rooms near entrances when you're not home, refused to leave his burning home because he couldn’t find his dog. so firefighters can get to them quickly.

Fortunately, they both escaped uninjured; but this is a valuable • Place a window cling with your animals’ information on your reminder of the importance of home fire safety for animals. front and back windows to alert rescue personnel to the number Not only can animals be the victims of fire, but they can also start and type of animals inside the house. fires accidentally. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association • Use monitored smoke detectors so emergency responders will estimates that nearly 1,000 house fires each year are started by be contacted in case a fire occurs when you aren't home. homeowners’ animals! DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital offers these fire prevention and planning tips for animal guardians: • Cover or remove stove and burner knobs when not in use so animals can't accidentally turn them on.

• Don't leave open flames unattended; consider using flameless candles (see page 78 for more on candle safety).

• Don't use glass water bowls on wooden decks, as the sun's rays can ignite a fire by heating up the glass and water. Use ceramic or stainless steel instead.

• Determine which family member will be responsible for which animal, so each will have a designated caretaker in an emergency.

• Know where your animals like to hide; that could be the first place they run if there’s a fire.

• Keep your animal’s crate, carrier and/or leash easily accessible.

• Hold regular fire drills with your family to practice your plan and escape routes.

DOES HE NEED INSURANCE? Health insurance for dogs and cats is becoming more popular, but many people are undecided about whether or not they should buy any. ConsumerAffairs.com has released a interactive tool in the form of a simple quiz that helps you determine whether or not you should consider health insurance for your companion. Among the factors the tool uses to help you decide include the age and species of the animal, as well as whether or not he has any pre-existing conditions; whether he’s spay or neutered; whether you’re a saver or a spender, etc. You can take the quiz at consumeraffairs.com/pets/ pet-insurance#pet-insurance-quiz.

16

animal wellness

animal wellness

17

5 D gs Cats

HEALTHY

holiday treats

By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM

As devoted animal parents, we want to include our dogs and cats in our seasonal celebrations. But as responsible guardians, we also know we must protect them from holiday hazards, including some of the “people foods” we indulge in this time of year.

Another concern many of us have is with the quality of store-bought treats. The majority of commercially-available treats are made with biologically-inappropriate ingredients, excessive amounts of sugar, and a host of chemical preservatives and other additives.

That’s why more and more people have started turning to premium treats made from healthy ingredients, or making treats right in their own kitchens.

The special recipes that follow are five of my favorites. They are made with just a few simple, high quality ingredients that are both health-enhancing and species-appropriate for dogs and cats.

You’ll find that prep and cook time is minimal, which works well around hectic holiday schedules. I think you’ll also find these treats are a huge hit with your furry companions!

18

animal wellness

Ingredients

Porky snowmen

Garnish with:

with healthy • Hibiscus leaves (loaded polyphenols) egg A -DH high ge llent source of -ran 1 free • Dried goji/wolfberries (an exce ed e) load is ten ich caro a (wh antioxidants and bet 3 tablespoons almond flour potassium) a vitamin E, B1 with vitamin E, magnesium and • Raw sunflower seeds (for extr and copper)

1 cup lean ground pork

Directions

mixture into • Cloves (an immune builder) Mix all ingredients together. Roll er than the larg htly slig one three balls, each (containing piperine, which ther to • Peppercorns toge s ball e thre the rients) s pres first. Gently ances absorption of other nut the cookie sheet. enh on at fl pe sha an wm sno a form utes or until golden brown.

Bake at 350°F for ten to 15 min up to a month. to a week or in the freezer for Store in the refrigerator for up

Sardine Hemp Angels Ingredients

Directions

1 can sardines (packed in water), drained Mix all ingredi ents together. Roll dough and mashed with a fork flat and use a cookie cutter to punch out shapes.

1 free-range high-DHA egg 2 tablespoons organic hemp protein powder (a high quality source of plant protein that contains all nine essential amino acids vital for good health, and an excellent source of essential fatty acids, magnesium, iron, zinc, and beneficial fiber)

Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month.

2 tablespoons coconut flour (a good source of iron, manganese and copper)

Recipes continued on page 20.

animal wellness

19

Recipes continued from page 19.

Carnivore buckeyes Ingredients

Directions

1/8 cup free-range, organic chicken livers, chopped into ¼” pieces (organ meat is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other compounds vital to your animal’s health; liver contains more nutrients, gram for gram, than any other food)

Bake at 275°F for 12 to 15 minutes, until liver browns. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.

3 tablespoons organic hemp protein Mix hemp and egg together, roll into balls powder and place on greased cookie sheet. Top with chopped liver.

1 free-range high-DHA egg

Ingredients

Cloven reindeer Directions

Roll turkey into balls and press flat on a greased cookie sheet to create a reindeer Rosemary sprigs (fresh rosemary is a shape. Top with a smaller turkey ball to wonderful all-natural source of iron, form a “nose”. calcium and vitamin B6, critical for healthy neurologic well-being) Bake at 350°F for ten minutes, or until Whole cloves (containing the golden brown. Garnish with sprigs of active compound eugenol, which fresh rosemar y for “antlers” and cloves is naturally anti-inflammatory and for “eyes”. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up anti-spasmodic) to a month.

Organic ground turkey

Ingredients

Beefy gingerbrea

d men

1 cup 93% lean fre Directions e-range ground be ef Mix ginger with ¼ teaspoon gr ground beef, pr ound dried gi ess nger flat and use cookie cutter (containing the ac to create tive compound gin gin ge rb re ad men. gerol, great for animals wi th GI problems) Place on greased cookie sheet, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.

Share your recipes with us!

socialmedia@redstoneme

20

animal wellness

diagroup.com

animal wellness

21

WINTER FITNESS tips for you and your dog

By Sandra Murphy

When the weather outside is frightful – snow too deep, puddles too big, walkways too slippery – how do you ensure that you and your dog get enough exercise? While it’s important to get outside as much as you can during the winter, walks and romps can often be cut short by anything from freezing temperatures and bitter winds to bone-chilling rains and icy surfaces.

If the arrival of winter turns you both into couch potatoes, it’s time to get up and use some creativity, both indoors and out, to help stay fit. Here are some tips to inspire you, and keep you and your best friend moving, whatever the weather.

22

animal wellness

SAFE OUTDOOR EXERCISE • During the winter, walks will usually be shorter, but you can make up for it by going out more frequently. You don’t have to do all your exercise in one session – the benefits of physical activity are cumulative. Instead of taking your dog for one long walk each day, try two shorter walks, perhaps one in the morning and one in the afternoon or evening.

• Most dogs love playing in snow, but not all snow is the same, and they can get wet, cold and tired more quickly depending on its type and quality. Fluffy snow is easier for your dog

to play in than wet snow because it’s lighter and “drier”. “In light, fluffy snow, bury a favorite toy just under the surface so the dog can ‘rescue’ it,” suggests Joel Silverman, Hollywood dog trainer and television host. In wetter snow, a game of “find the snowball” offers a good workout, but keep it brief as your dog will tire more quickly when the snow is heavy and harder to move through.

When rewarding your dog for a good workout, encourage him to stretch his neck to follow the treat.

INDOOR AGILITY On days when it’s too cold or stormy to be outside for long, indoor exercise is just as beneficial and fun as going outside.

“Train new behaviors or sign up for a tricks class,” says Joel. “Agility’s also a year-round sport, often done indoors.

Both humans and dogs get to run, and jumps, tunnels and weave poles give the dogs lots of exercise.”

No time or budget for a class? Make an agility course at home. Dining room chairs

THE SOCK GAME

Belle, a three-year-old golden doodle, loves the “sock game”. “She parades through the family room with a sock and pauses as if to say, “Oh yes, I have socks – it's go time!” says her person, Duane. “Cue the Benny Hill music because she goes round and round until I get dizzy. I've run a dozen circles around my living room couch on some nights.” Duane sometimes has to enlist the kids’ help to end the game. A fun workout for everyone!

animal wellness

23

While you do situps, he can sit on your feet and keep them flat on the floor.

can mimic weave poles, and both you and your dog can Conga through them. An upside down chair with a blanket over it can be a tunnel substitute for small or mid-sized dogs to crawl through. Jumps and steps can be made with heavy boxes.

PARTNERSHIP EXERCISES Here are some more innovative ways you and your dog can stay fit together this winter.

• When Sparky stops to read his “pee-mail” on walks, burn some extra calories and keep yourself warm by jogging on the spot or doing a few pushups against a fence or building. Stretch your calf muscles with heel lifts on the curb, or do a few left/right lunges.

• If your dog loves to retrieve in the snow, you can use games of fetch to improve your own biceps by using both arms to throw, not just your dominant one. Burn more calories by chasing the ball with him. Keep the game short if the weather is very cold or the snow is heavy and wet.

• On indoor days, combine bowling and fetch. Using a long hallway, set up empty plastic soda bottles and bowl with your dog’s favorite ball. He’ll burn calories fetching the ball while you get exercise bowling and working as a pin-setter.

A variation on this game is to set up a line of bottles across the hall and then throw the ball beyond them. This presents a puzzle for your dog as he figures out how to get the ball without knocking over the bottles. Of course, some dogs will plow right through – be prepared for noise!

• Sit-ups and leg lifts can be enlivened with your dog’s help.

While you do sit-ups, he can sit on your feet and keep them flat on the floor. When doing leg lifts, the temptation is to drop your legs when it starts to hurt. Teach your dog to do an “army crawl” beneath your legs as you lift – no dropping them until he’s clear!

• Your waistline can improve by teaching your dog to “figure eight” around your left leg/right leg. As you lure him with a treat, your side muscles get a good stretch.

• You can also use your treadmill to exercise your dog, but never leave him unattended.

A nasty winter day doesn’t have to mean a boring or lazy day.

Get creative and find ways to exercise with your dog indoors.

It’s a fun way to stay fit and spend time together, and your dog will love the attention and activity!

Tweet us your tip s fo your pet fit @AW_ r keeping Magazine

COPY EACH OTHER!

Dogs love to mimic people. Lie on your back, raise your legs as if to pedal a bike, and see if you can train your dog to try and do the same.

You can also train your dog to do other exercises with you, such as marching in place by your side or in front of you, or doing pushups with you (from a down to a sit and back down again).

“My dog Felix learned how to do pushups,” says Chantelle. “He gets a treat every fifth pushup to keep him motivated. I've also taught him to spin.” Sit-ups strengthen the core muscles of the body, while spinning stretches the dog’s back.

Now turn the tables and mimic your dog! Stretches are always important, especially after a nap. Follow his moves and stretch your back muscles, legs and arms. Doesn’t it feel good?

24

animal wellness

Advertorial

Diabetes in dogs and cats

By Carmen Colitz, DVM, PhD, DACVO Diabetes mellitus occurs when beta cells in the pancreas stop working properly. Either they don’t make enough insulin, or certain conditions interfere with the effectiveness of the insulin.

Without insulin, glucose cannot enter cells and circulates unused in the bloodstream. Glucose levels rise (hyperglycemia) and the body starves.

Excess glucose ends up in the urine, drawing water with it and causing excessive urination and thirst.

The starving body tries to survive by eating more food and breaking down fat and muscle to form more glucose – but the glucose cannot be used. This results in weight loss, and can also cause life-threatening ketoacidosis if diabetes is not diagnosed early enough or is poorly controlled. The breakdown of fat results in the formation of ketones.

If levels of ketones in the blood become extremely high, a potentially life-threatening ketoacidotic condition occurs.

One out of every 500 dogs, and one out of every 400 cats, is diabetic.

Millions more are at risk due to obesity. Other risk factors include chronic systemic use of corticosteroids. Certain dog breeds are at higher risk, including miniature Schnauzers, miniature Pinschers, West Highland white terriers and Cairn terriers.

Diabetic patients typically require many trips to the veterinarian or internal medicine specialist, twice-daily insulin injections, proper dietary changes, exercise, and healthy weight maintenance. Certain supplements help replenish the antioxidants being used up at an accelerated rate: • Astaxanthin: Protects beta cells from damage and reduces inflammation.

• Cinnamon: Acts similarly to insulin, and sensitizes cells to insulin, enhancing the uptake of glucose.

• Fenugreek seed: Slows cholesterol and carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and increases insulin release from beta cells.

• Alpha lipoic acid: Aids in energy production, has inhibitory effects on aldose reductase (the enzyme responsible for cataract formation in diabetes), and regenerates vitamins C and E and glutathione to their active reduced states.

Dr. Carmen Colitz is Consulting Veterinarian for Animal Necessity and co-founder of Animal HealthQuest LLC. animal wellness

25

This COMMON gastrointestinal problem can make him (and you) miserable, but with the right treatment, your companion can lead a normal life.

IBD

By Erin Mayo, DVM

Dealing with

D gs Cats

As a veterinarian, I have heard this story many times from frustrated clients. They arrive home and are greeted with a smelly disaster in their kitchen or living room, courtesy of the dog or cat. These animals don’t mean to make a gastrointestinal mess (which often seems disproportionately large compared to the size of the animal). The culprit is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition that can lead to uncontrollable and unpredictable bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.

26

animal wellness

CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

IBD results from the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the mucosa (lining) of the intestines. Diagnosis is frequently made from observed signs and/or the resolution of these signs with dietary changes. However, confirmation usually requires a biopsy of the intestine, either surgically or during an endoscopic examination of the stomach and bowel.

The most common pathologic diagnosis is lymphocyticplasmacytic enteritis or enterocolitis, but other types of IBD include eosinophilic enteritis, suppurative colitis and granulomatous enterocolitis. Chronic inflammation can increase in severity over time if not properly addressed, and in cats, this inflammation can lead to cancer. Gastrointestinal lymphoma can be a consequence of long-standing IBD in cats.

The signs of IBD are related to the gastrointestinal tract, and include (but are not limited to) chronic diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia (not eating), lethargy and weight loss. Being perverse, cats can show increased appetite (polyphagia) instead. In severe cases of intestinal inflammation, animals can lose protein through the bowel wall; this is known as proteinlosing enteropathy. If the protein loss is severe enough, edema in the limbs or underside of the belly can occur.

There are a variety of causes of IBD in dogs and cats: • The most common is food allergy or intolerance. Antigens (proteins) in the animal’s food stimulate an immune response, resulting in inflammation of the intestines.

• Another potential cause is chronic stress or anxiety. While the exact mechanism is not understood, it is conceivable that chronic stress can manifest as gastrointestinal symptoms.

Anyone who has ever had to bolt to the bathroom during a stressful event would agree.

• Another cause is the overuse of antibiotics, which creates an environment of “dysbiosis”. Proponents of this theory believe that antibiotic use (or the ingestion of any substance that can harm bacteria in the gut) creates an imbalance between the “protective” and “harmful” bacteria in the intestines. As the “harmful” bacteria increase in numbers, inflammation ensues.

THERE ARE MANY TREATMENT OPTIONS Once a diagnosis of IBD has been made, there are a variety of treatment options to consider.

q C onventional

treatment includes medications to mediate symptoms, such as anti-emetics for vomiting and antibiotics for diarrhea. The underlying inflammation can be treated with immune-suppressants such as steroids or cyclosporine.

w The other commonly used treatment involves prescription diets that utilize a variety of mechanisms to decrease the antigens in the food and allow the inflammation in the bowel to subside. Some diets limit the numbers of antigenic animal wellness

27

ingredients; for example, by reducing the number of protein sources. Another tactic is to hydrolyze the proteins. This means the protein molecules are broken down to a size that is too small to stimulate the immune response. These diets may also avoid other common allergens, such as corn, soy and wheat.

Some people wish to home-cook or use raw diet options. It can be difficult to formulate a diet that is complete and meets your dog or cat’s daily vitamin and mineral needs, however, so if you wish to home-prepare your animal’s food, consult with an integrative or holistic veterinarian first.

 Alternative therapies that can help with IBD may be used on their own or to supplement conventional treatment. a) Acupuncture may not be the first thing that jumps to mind when treating gastrointestinal problems, but it can be helpful for the acute symptoms of vomiting and cramping that cause abdominal pain. b) Chinese herbs can also effectively deal with intestinal cramping and spasm, while addressing the underlying inflammation. There are many Chinese herbal formulas that treat a variety of disease patterns, such as Dampness or Stasis in the Stomach. While these herbs are readily available, a veterinarian trained in Chinese herbals will help direct you to the appropriate formula for your dog or cat’s specific pattern of symptoms. c) Western herbs can also help treat IBD in animals; they have anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and immuno-modulatory effects. Immuno-modulatory herbs can influence the function of the immune system – in this case, decreasing the gut’s over-responsiveness. Examples of herbs that are helpful for intestinal issues include chamomile, calendula, astragalus and slippery elm bark. Again, a veterinarian trained in herbal treatments will help you select the correct herbs for your own compantion’s particular situation.

Examples of herbs that are helpful for intestinal issues include chamomile, calendula, astragalus and slippery elm bark. d) Dietary supplements are another option to consider. i. Probiotics are good for a variety of conditions. They can aid in the absorption of nutrients and vitamins, as well as assist with the digestion of carbohydrates and short chain fatty acids.

28

animal wellness

Can I BD be

prevented?

Because the underlying cause is complicated and involves many factors, it can be difficult to know how to avoid IBD. But there are some guidelines you can follow to help ensure the best possible gastrointestinal (and overall) health for your four-legged friend. Check out these basic tips:

GOOD DIET (both food and treats):

• Avoid pet foods with additives, preservatives and dyes.

Look for real-food ingredients.

• Too much of a good thing is still bad. Maintain a healthy weight by not overfeeding your dog or cat.

GOOD LIFESTYLE:

• Make sure he exercises daily, by walking, playing with toys, etc.

• Try to incorporate activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation, such as dog play dates, puzzle toys, etc.

• Minimize stress and anxiety whenever possible.

ii. Omega fatty acids are have anti-inflammatory properties and are frequently recommended to treat arthritis and allergic skin disease. iii. Vitamins can also be helpful for animals with IBD. Those with severe conditions may have difficulty absorbing the nutrients in their food, and supplementation ensures they won’t suffer from deficiencies. You need to be careful, however, as it is easy to go overboard with vitamins, the variety of available products is dizzying, and there are many unreliable products on the market. If your veterinarian feels that vitamin supplementation is needed, consult with him or her about which products they trust.

If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with IBD, fear not. There are many options for treatment, and with the right combination of therapies for your animal’s individual needs, unwanted symptoms can be well-managed. Most animals with IBD live normal lives. With the help of your veterinarian and some patience, you can look forward to fewer messes and a happier, healthier companion.

Old dogs (and cats) can learn “NEW TRICKS”

By Brenda Mortimer

Company co-founder David Merrick with his fourlegged buddy, Lola. An interest in animal health and veterinary medicine runs in Dave’s family.

An interest in senior animals led to an innovative supplement that helps improve memory and cognition.

As people age, they often experience some memory loss. What you may not know is that dogs and cats can also develop memory issues when they enter their senior years.

“Older animals can experience memory problems due to the loss of proteins that support brain cells,” explains David Merrick, co-founder of Neutricks®, makers of supplements that provide cognitive support for aging dogs and cats. “These problems can affect learning and concentration, which can impact interactions and relationships between animals and their people.

“In dogs, the symptoms of memory problems – sometimes referred to as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) – include disorientation and confusion, getting stuck in corners, failure to recognize the owner, house soiling, aimless barking, new phobias or changes in sleep patterns,” David says.

“The symptoms for cats include loud vocalizing at night, disorientation, lack of interest in playing and grooming, ‘missing’ the litter box, and long periods of blank staring.”

According to the company website, the proteins lost from the brain during aging are specifically referred to as calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs). They’re very important for maintaining calcium balance in brain cells. As the body produces fewer CaPBs, cognitive problems such as memory loss occur. Neutricks is formulated to replace these proteins with an active ingredient called apoaequorin, a protein found in a type of jellyfish (Aequoria victoria).

“It’s an evidence-based supplement with an approach to healthy brain aging for senior dogs and cats,” says Dave. “It supports healthy brain aging, mental agility and cognitive focus, and may reduce symptoms of CDS.” There are two products – one for dogs, which comes in a chewable tablet, and one for cats, which comes as a fish-flavored sprinkle. “We’ve also just launched a new soft chew formulation for senior dogs that may have difficulty chewing a tablet,” says David.

Studies have demonstrated that Neutricks is an effective supplement.

“Documented scientific research shows it significantly improves learning and accuracy, and enhances the attention of senior dogs, as compared to a control group,” Dave says. “We also provide updated information on CDS and its symptoms in senior animals to veterinarians and their clients, in order to increase awareness.”

When it comes to senior dogs and cats, the company goes beyond selling product. “We are a founding member of the not-for-profit organization, International Veterinary Senior Care Society, and have supported the efforts of several other organizations like the Humane Society, Gray Muzzle and Capital K9s.”

David frequently gets feedback from veterinarians and animal guardians about Neutricks’ efficacy, and it’s no surprise when you learn that an interest in veterinary medicine runs in his family. “My father is a veterinarian, and my grandfather and his three brothers also practiced veterinary medicine. It never ceases to amaze me when someone calls and shares with me how the quality of their animal’s life has increased. I simply love it!” animal wellness

29

An ELIMINATION diet is the best way to go. These novel foods will get you started.

ROOT Getting to the

By Audi Donamor

of food allergies

Two decades ago, I prepared an action sheet for a dog rescue organization entitled Out, Out Darn Hot Spot! Back then, it seemed sensitivities and allergies most often presented with smelly ears from yeast and bacteria, and itchy skin that often led to nasty hot spots and bacterial infections. The sound of constant licking was a real giveaway.

As time went on, however, it became obvious that these common symptoms were just that – symptoms – and that we needed to look beyond “surface” inflammation to “inward” inflammatory responses, like diarrhea and vomiting.

WHAT IS AN ALLERGY, ANYWAY? An allergy is defined as a "hypersensitive state acquired through exposure to a particular allergen". The effects may be immediate or delayed, but either way, they can reduce us to tears of frustration as we try to soothe our dogs’ frantic scratching and licking, or try to cope with episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.

While many things can lead to an allergic response, from vaccinations to fleas to pollen, pesticides and herbicides, and everything in between, including household cleaning products

30

animal wellness

and synthetic carpets, veterinary offices are flooded with animals whose diets are the root cause of their allergic symptoms.

THE ELIMINATION DIET An elimination diet is a great way to find out what your dog can and can’t tolerate, but it takes time and patience, and you should work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian who is wellversed in canine nutrition. Basically, you throw out everything you are currently feeding your dog, and start from “scratch”.

Then, you select one protein and carbohydrate that your dog has never been exposed to before, and let that be your starting point. Following are some examples of alternative proteins and carbohydrates you can try.

NOVEL PROTEINS

q Kangaroo is a very lean protein, containing only 2% fat. It is considered one of the finest game meats. Kangaroo is a valuable source of Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins B6 and B12, iron, niacin, riboflavin and zinc. Its CLA (conjugated linolenic acid) has been found to have anti-carcinogenic and anti-diabetic properties. Kangaroo is a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

w Elk is another game meat and novel protein, containing just 3% fat. It is a very rich source of vitamin B12, and a very good source of vitamin B6, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, zinc, iron, thiamin, niacin and phosphorus. It also contains iron, magnesium and copper. Elk has a good ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 essential fatty acids. strich has quite a “pedigree”. It is endorsed by the American eO Heart Association, the American Cancer Association, and the American Diabetic Association. It is lower in fat than chicken breast and turkey. Interestingly, due to the ostrich’s perfect pH balance, it does not attract bacteria like E-coli or salmonella.

ALTERNATIVE GRAINS, NUTS AND SEEDS Amaranth, quinoa and buckwheat are considered pseudo grains and are technically not members of the Poaceae botanical family.

Yet they’re usually included alongside the true cereal grains, because their nutritional profile, preparation and use are so similar. For an elimination diet, consider teff, an African cereal grass, or whole flours made from chia seeds, coconut, almonds or whole oats:

q Chia seeds contain more healthy Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber than flax and are a good source of protein and antioxidants.

They are a rich source of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), a plantbased form of Omega 3 that helps combat skin inflammation.

w Coconut

(raw) contains medium-chain saturated fats that transform into energy and can help decrease bacterial growth, irritation and inflammation, and lauric acid, which helps decrease the production of yeast. Coconut sugar, meanwhile, is made from 100% pure coconut flower sap. It is gluten-free and contains B vitamins, amino acids and minerals.

e Almond flour (raw) is non-GMO, 100% pure, unblanched, gluten-free, and a great alternative to traditional whole flours, especially for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.

Continued on page 32.

animal wellness

31

Continued from page 31.

Almonds contain the entire vitamin E family of tocopherols and tocotrienols and are an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese, magnesium, zinc and bioflavonoids, along with a trace of Omega 3.

 Oat flour (pure whole grain) is easy to get these days, and is made with stringent production protocols. It is both wheatfree and gluten-free, and is processed in an oat-dedicated

Elk kabobs Ingredients

1 pound elk, ground (you can also use ground kangaroo or ostrich for this recipe) 1 teaspoon dried organic/medicinal mushroom blend (could include shiitake, maitake, reishi, turkey tail, cordyceps, mesima, poria, oyster, suehirotake, lion’s mane, agarikon, true tinder – try to choose whole mycelium and fruiting steamactivated powders and extracts)

½ teaspoon organic garlic powder (optional) 1 teaspoon Himalayan crystal salt or sea salt 1 teaspoon rubbed oregano or 2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped First-pressed olive oil, for the pan

Instructions

Try to choose organic ingredients wherever possible. Combine all ingredients, except the first pressed olive oil, in small mixing bowl. Then, make approximately 21 meat balls. Drizzle the olive oil in a mediumsized pan, and turn on heat to medium high. When you see the first bubble, add your meat balls. Sauté on medium low heat. Remove from pan, place on plate, and cool completely before serving.

Garnish with goat or sheep yogurt, hummus, and a vegetable/fruit mash.

Begin by choosing one vegetable and one fruit that your dog has never had before, and see how it goes. A garnish of hummus is easy to make.

All it takes is a can of chickpeas (1½ cups), tahini (3 tablespoons), garlic (1 clove, finely minced – optional), and salt (½ teaspoon Himalayan crystal or sea salt). Whirl in a food processor or blender and serve. The whole family can enjoy this!

facility. Oats have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and contain more than 20 unique polyphenols.

The ingredients and recipes accompanying this article are a good starting point for creating an allergy-free diet. However, every dog is an individual, so again, be sure to work with a veterinarian.

With his or her help, along with lots of patience and commitment, you’ll eventually get rid of your dog’s itch!

Why goat’s milk yogurt?

Goat’s milk yogurt is a great alternative for dogs who have a sensitivity or allergy to cow-based products. It does not contain agglutinin, which means the fat globules found in the yogurt do not gather together. Goat’s milk proteins contain only trace amounts of S-1, the allergenic casein protein found in cow’s milk. This means goat’s milk proteins are easier to digest.

Goat’s milk products contain slightly lower levels of lactose than cow’s milk products. They also have linoleic and arachnodonic essential fatty acids, and a higher proportion of short-chain and mediumchain fatty acids than cow’s milk.

Almond “dog-light” Ingredients 4 cups whole oat flour (or other whole flour or combination of your choice)

1 teaspoon Himalayan crystal salt

1 cup whole almond flour

1 tablespoon camelina oil

2 teaspoons coconut sugar or other sweetener of your choice

1½ teaspoons Saigon cinnamon

½ cup goat yogurt

Instructions

Chia coconut crisp Ingredients 1½ cups rolled oats

1 cup almond butter

½ cup coconut flour

1/ cup 4

coconut oil

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon whole vanilla bean extract, in glycerine

1½ tablespoons chia seeds

2 whole eggs

Instructions

Cover a large edged cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Press mixture into cookie sheet and flatten gently with a wooden spoon or fork. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool completely before serving. Store in the refrigerator, in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

32

animal wellness

Choose organic ingredients if possible. Cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 325°F, on the convection setting if available. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

There are three easy ways to prepare these biscuits. Simply divide the dough into four pieces, knead gently, roll out on a counter or cutting board, and cut into desired shapes. Or, take small pieces of dough, roll out to the thickness of a crayon, and using a sharp knife, cut small treats, according to your dog’s size.

Another way is to place your ball of dough in the center of your cookie sheet, use a rolling pin to roll it out to the edges of the cookie sheet, and lightly score with a knife.

Bake for 30 minutes. Then, turn the oven down to 200°F, on the convection setting if available, and bake for a further 30 minutes. If convection is not available, bake 15 extra minutes. Allow biscuits to completely cool in the oven before storing in an open container, cookie jar or Ziploc bag.

Join the conversation #PetHealth

D gs Cats

HOLIDAY

SEASON

By Charlotte Walker

ONE

First and foremost, try not to disrupt your animal’s schedule any more than you have to. Animals find routine reassuring, and deviations from that routine can be upsetting and stressful to them. Feed him, walk him or play with him at the usual times. If you are going away, ask whoever is looking after him to follow the same routine as closely as they can.

irritability, restlessness, excessive vocalization, acting out and destructiveness – exactly what you don’t need right now. So it’s important to invest some time and effort into ensuring your four-legged friend stays as safe and stressfree as possible during the upheaval of the holidays. Here are ten suggestions that will help.

When you have guests, ensure your dog or cat has a safe haven to retreat to where he can get away from the noise and bustle if he wants to. A quiet bedroom is ideal. This is especially important if he’s shy, timid or wary around strangers, or is easily spooked by noise, excited children, etc.

TWO

The holidays can be hectic. Amid the whirlwind of guests, parties, gift-giving, shopping, traveling, cooking and decorating, you might not pay as much attention to your dog or cat as you usually do. This can generate stress and anxiety in your companion, which in turn may translate into unwanted behaviors such as hiding,

Continued on page 34. animal wellness

33

Conversely, if your animal is a social butterfly, include him in the festivities. Shutting him away in another part of the house will only cause loneliness and stress. Dogs in particular enjoy being part of the “pack”. Just be sure to keep an eye on him, especially if you have children visiting. Tell youngsters not to chase or pick your animal up, even if he’s generally okay around people. Even laid back, gregarious dogs and cats can get tense on occasion, and you don’t want anyone getting bitten or scratched.

SEVEN

If your dog or cat is easily stressed by any change or upheaval, get a bottle of Bach Rescue Remedy and add a few drops to his drinking water each time you change it (which should be daily, even during the busyness of the holidays). Alternatively, massage a few drops of the remedy on his ears or paw pads, or rub it on your hands and then stroke or gently massage him. He’ll receive a dose of calming energy from your touch as well as from the flower essences.

FOUR

THREE

Continued from page 33.

It’s great to treat your companion to some special, healthy goodies (see page 18 for some ideas) but rich or unusual foods can lead to digestive upsets, and that’s that last thing you want over the holidays when your vet’s office might be closed for several days at a stretch.

Don’t feed him any human snack foods or candy – especially anything with chocolate or raisins, which are toxic to dogs. Avoid fat trimmings, fruitcake, rich gravies or sauces, cooked bones, and anything including onions or grapes, which are also toxic to dogs. Advise your dinner guests, especially children, not to feed your dog or cat anything without asking you first. Healthy holiday foods you can safely share include lean meat, steamed veggies and mashed potatoes – but don’t go overboard if he’s not used to eating these things.

EIGHT

SIMPLE GIFT IDEAS

Keep your animal away from the door as guests come and go, or at the very least keep a watchful eye on him. It can be especially easy for a small dog or cat to slip outside unnoticed, especially if he’s frightened of people he doesn’t know. You don’t want to spend Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve searching for a lost dog or cat. If necessary, try confining your animal in a safe spot when guests are due, and let him out again when everyone has arrived and the door is securely shut.

34

Scratching your head about what to get the dogs or cats on your list? These suggestions will get your creative juices flowing.

FOR DOGS

• Healthy treats – make your own (see page xx) or buy products made from natural, chemical-free ingredients, and package them in holiday wrapping or bags.

• New dishes – ceramic or stainless steel are good choices for food and water bowls and there are lots of fun, cool designs to choose from.

• Funky leashes – there are endless colors and patterns to choose from! Make sure they’re made from durable quality materials.

• Winter coats or sweaters – look for something warm, waterproof and stylish; only purchase quality products and make sure you get the dog’s measurements before buying.

• Durable boots – protect sensitive pads from ice, snow and road salt – again, go for good quality and get the correct sizing.

animal wellness

FOR CATS

• Interactive puzzle toys – they’re designed to be both challenging and fun, and give cats mental stimulation as well as exercise.

• Grooming tools – are the old ones missing bristles or teeth?

Buy good quality soft-bristled brushes; fine-toothed combs are good for undercoats.

• Organic cat grass – it’s good for feline health and will help keep kitties away from houseplants.

• Window bird feeders – watching birds is like TV for felines!

Feeders that attach to window glass or outdoor sills will give them a ringside view.

• Snazzy scratching posts – opt for sturdily-constructed, sisalcovered products that are tall or long enough for a cat to stretch out fully on.

NINE

Exercise is a good way to let off some steam and relax the body and mind, so make sure your dog or cat doesn’t get short-changed on physical activity during the festive season. The same applies to you! If you don’t have time for long walks or plays, break them down into shorter, more frequent sessions throughout the day. You’ll find the breaks leave you feeling refreshed and more energized for everything you have to do, and they’ll help keep your animal happier and more balanced.

SIX

FIVE

Also, keep an eye on your animal whenever there’s any food on the counter, coffee table, and other surfaces that may be easily accessible to him. Cats are masters at reaching high surfaces, and even some dogs can jump or reach high enough to get hold of foods perched near the edge of the kitchen counter or dining room table. The smartest ones will even pull table cloths or runners to bring everything down to their level! Put tempting foods away or safely out of reach when you have to be out of the room.

Avoid toxic holiday decorations, such as live holly, hemlock and other plants that could easily drop berries, cones or foliage. Artificial greenery used to look just that – artificial…but today’s products are much more realisticlooking. If you prefer natural Christmas trees, watch that your companion doesn’t nibble on the greenery or play with breakable ornaments, ribbons or light strings, and don’t hang anything edible on the tree, such as popcorn strings, chocolate coins or candy canes.

Avoid tinsel. If you have a cat, it’s almost a given that she’s going to try and climb the tree, so make sure it’s stable and well secured against tipping.

Tweet us your tips for a holiday season @AW_ safe Magazine

TEN

Last but not least, spend a little quiet quality time with your four-legged friend every day, no matter how busy you are. Use this time to just sit quietly and do nothing except devote your attention to your dog or cat, stroking him, talking to him, and enjoying his companionship. Aim for at least fifteen minutes to half an hour or more a day. Again, if you just can’t spare that much time, take multiple mini-breaks throughout the day, even if they’re just a minute or two long. Your dog or cat needs and craves your attention, affection and reassurance, and some quiet time together will help center and de-stress both of you!

animal wellness

35

Holiday GIFT GUIDE

Safe

Feed-

Protect your pet's food with the portable Feed-Safe™ feeding station. Adjustable sliding door locks into position, allowing your smaller pet into the dome while keeping larger pets out. A one-way flip-door located on the side lifts for a quick alternate egress if the entrance is blocked or closed for secure feeding.

Feed-safe.com (877) 250-7729

The Petzi

Treat Cam™

is a revolutionary remote treat dispenser and camera that makes it fun and easy to connect with your pet from anywhere, at anytime. Learn more online.

Petzi.com

Vital Cat

Treats

Vital Cat Treats are the purr-fect gift for your feline friends. Made with fresh, whole, single-sourced USDA animal protein, they provide delicious, essential nutrition that cats instinctively crave. Purely raw, Instinctively healthy rewards! Grain Free, Gluten Free, Guilt Free! Go to VitalEssentialsRaw.com/wellness to receive a FREE sample.

VitalEssentialsRaw.com (920) 367-4062

The

latest in nail clippers!

Clips the Tip Not the Quick™! The new Zen Clipper takes the stress out of clipping claws with a unique conical design that allows only a certain length of nail to enter the clipper.

No more cutting the quick by accident! Small, medium and large sizes for cats and small dogs. Available at pet supply retailers.

Petppi.com

A “purr-fect”

solution

Get your cats outside with the Purrfect Playpen!

This 72”L x 50”W enclosure uses the same strong 3/32” square mesh as high quality soft carrier windows. It features roll-up shades to block sun or just things you do not want the cat to see (dogs, traffic etc). Works on hard surfaces too! purrfectfence.com (888) 280-4066

36

animal wellness

Safety first for new leash

Litter-Robot

Open Air™

The Litter-Robot Open Air™ is an automatic, self-cleaning litter box. The patented sifting process automatically separates the waste from the clean litter 3-7 minutes after the cat exits.

The large entry and litter chamber along with a self-adjusting cat sensor, accommodates cats of all sizes.

Litter-robot.com (877) 250-7729

SmartLeash® is the FIRST and ONLY retractable leash that automatically stops your dog when he or she tries to suddenly run or lunge. Like a seatbelt! It stays locked as long as your dog has tension on the leash. When your dog releases tension, SmartLeash resets instantly, ready to protect your pet again. SmartLeash comes with bright yellow reflective tape so others can see you and your dog, a comfortable rubberized grip and a convenient pushbutton manual brake. Every leash comes with a removable reflective wrist strap for added security. Medium and Large models have a high-strength bungee attached to the clasp to absorb the normal stresses associated with walking your dog when the leash is locked.

TheSmartLeash.com

Kitty

Speciiasilng advertture fea

P lay Zone

Kitty Play Zone is a cardboard playhouse and feeding station for kittens and cats. Its unique design with internal climbing tower, loft area, and roof opening promote fun interaction with your pet.

White colored panels encourage custom decorating and customization. Kid designed. Kitty approved.

Stainless steel bowls included.

KittyPlayZone.com (877) 250-7729

What to do first this …

holiday season

…walk the dog, go shopping, talk to your best friend, now you can do it all with SMOOCHY POOCHY’s hands free leash. info@smoochypoochy.com PetsFuture.com (416) 407-8898

Help for

Limited Ingredient Diets

Honest Kitchen’s minimalist line of limited ingredient diets contains three recipes with just six ingredients – plus vitamins and minerals. With absolutely no red flag ingredients or common allergens (they’re gluten and white potato free!), they’re great for dogs with sensitivities to many common pet food ingredients.

HonestKitchen.com

digestion

Ritezyme digestive enzymes improve digestion through better absorption of nutrients for your dog, cat or horse.

Ritezyme can increases vigor and mobility, improve circulation, joint and bone health, help maintain healthy body weight, improve skin, hair and coat and help prevent indigestion, gas and bloating.

Ritezyme.com (877) 751-8322

Natural kitty litter

Next Gen litters offer a natural solution to litter box odor. Bacteria suppressants like green tea, Hinoki cypress and wood combine to make a lightweight, clumping litter that can fights odors without strong fragrances. Our litters are naturally sourced from recycled materials making us ecofriendly from start to finish.

NextGenPet.com

I’M-YUNITY

for dogs

Give the gift of IMMUNITY & QUALITY of LIFE with I’m-Yunity & I’m-Yunity Too, each contains proprietary medicinal mushroom extracts of Coriolus versicolor and/or Reishi mushroom to reduce pain & fatigue, improve energy level, mobility & appetite. Learn about clinical results and use “wellness” code for 5% discount.

ImYunityForDogs.com

Stop

accidents from happening in the house Wiki Wags brand Disposable Male Dog Diaper Wraps are the ultimate in convenience for those male dogs who just won't take "No" for an answer when it comes to wetting in the house! Comes in four great sizes, have re-adjustable dual tabs, and really do work!

Wikiwags.com (888) 945-4924 (972) 853-0930 animal wellness

37

MRSA

IN DOGS

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcal aureus usually manifests as severe skin infections in canines.

Treatment requires an integrative approach.

By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

You’ve probably heard of MRSA before now. This “superbug” has been coming up at lot in human medical news. Several people have died from the disease, often younger athletes who contracted the bacterium from workout facilities. But it may surprise you to learn that MRSA and related bacteria are increasingly affecting dogs as well. This article will show you what you need to know about MRSA and how to deal with an infection in your canine.

WHERE DOES IT COME FROM? MRSA is the acronym for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcal Aureus. Staph aureus is a common human bacterium that can also occur on animals (although dogs are usually infected with a different but related staph bacterium). Methicillin-resistant staph bacteria are not killed by most antibiotics, including methicillin.

They’re considered “superbugs” because they can be hard to treat, take a long time to treat, and often require very expensive antibiotics (and it has become harder to find any antibiotics that kill MRSA). As a result, MRSA bugs are more likely to be fatal then non-MRSA bugs. This means early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are a must in order to protect your dog and yourself.

Staph aureus is carried harmlessly in the nasal passages of an estimated 33% of the human population; 2% carry MRSA. If the bacteria leave the nasal cavity and infect another part of the body (for example, through a cut in the skin), they can quickly invade the bloodstream and cause septicemia, a deadly and often fatal infection of the entire body. In people, this typically happens when handwashing is not done properly and the nasal MRSA is spread by touching another person or inanimate object, causing

38

animal wellness

an infection when a susceptible person encounters the bacteria.

In dogs, either staph aureus (MRSA) or more commonly staph intermedius (MRSI) infections can occur. Dogs and people can become infected through environmental contamination or by infecting each other (people can infect other people or dogs, and dogs can infect other dogs or people.)

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DOG HAS MRSA? MRSA usually presents as a skin infection; most staph infections in dogs tend to manifest as a type of dermatitis. Staph skin infections can appear in several forms. Small pustules (pimples) typically occur, but because they are fragile they rupture easily, leaving a red or dark inner circle surrounded by scale (a bull’s eye lesion). Small red bumps called papules may also be present; these most commonly occur on areas of the body with less hair, such as the abdomen and groin. Some dogs, typically shorterhaired breeds such as Labrador retrievers, exhibit a moth-eaten appearance with areas of partial circular hair loss (alopecia) over their sides and backs. Many dogs with staph infections are itchy; a lot of dogs with (chronic) skin infections also have other diseases such as allergies and thyroid or adrenal dysfunction.

MRSA infections look just like “plain old” staph infections, but there is an important difference. MRSA infections don’t get better when treated with antibiotics (or they’ll improve but never really heal, and will continue to be present). The only way to diagnose MRSA is through a skin culture. This can be done simply by swabbing the skin surface or with a skin biopsy. A biopsy is recommended for chronic skin disease, skin disease

that doesn’t look typical, or when the culture of a skin swab is negative and MRSA is still suspected.

I have also diagnosed some of these infections in the bladder and ears as well as on the skin.

HOW IS IT TREATED? As a holistic veterinarian, I am encouraged to see my traditional dermatology colleagues finally not recommending antibiotics for routine, simple skin infections. Instead, they recommend frequent bathing with topical antimicrobial shampoos. Research shows that simple, uncomplicated skin infections will heal without using oral antimicrobials if treated early and aggressively. Holistic veterinarians also use various herbs (astragalus, Echinacea) for immune support, and natural herbal antimicrobials (olive leaf, Oregon grape, etc.) to encourage quicker and longer-lasting healing.

Because MRSA is a tough bug to kill, and because it often develops when inappropriate and long-term antibiotic treatment is used for any problem, specific antibiotics must be used, along with topical shampoos and herbal remedies, in order to kill it. A sensitivity test, done alongside the skin culture, suggests which antibiotics might be helpful in killing MRSA. In general, most antibiotics routinely used in veterinary practice are ineffective.

MRSA is typically only sensitive to expensive “human” antibiotics that must be given for one to two months or longer. Because MRSA can be fatal, especially in humans, it is recommended that the “newer” more aggressive antibiotics be saved for lifethreatening infections in people, and not used to treat skin infections in dogs.

Due to staph’s increased resistance to antibiotics, and the fact that the drugs must be used for extended periods in order to kill the infection, probiotics should also be provided to the dog. Because the infection can be transmitted by objects, anything he has contacted, such as blankets, pillows or toys, should be washed thoroughly and regularly.

Treatment is continued until the skin looks normal and a repeat culture fails to identify the staph bacterium. Ongoing care with regular bathing, and herbs or homeopathics, is recommended as dictated by each case.

Like all “superbugs”, MRSA is scary. But an early diagnosis, and proper treatment using an integrative approach, can assist your dog back to well-being. And keeping his immune system strong with a healthy diet and lifestyle can help prevent an infection in the first place.

The takeaway message

Skin infections should be treated early and aggressively, without using antibiotics except for serious infections. If they don’t get better, the skin may need to be biopsied and cultured to confirm a diagnosis of MRSA. Regardless of whether or not antibiotics are needed or used, regular bathing and the use of immune-stimulating herbs and probiotics are essential. animal wellness

39

PRODUCT PICKS Award-winning

nutrition

It won the Best New Product Award at the Global Pet Expo in 2014. DOGSFOOD™ Grain Free with Ocean Fish & Salmon Meals from DOG for DOG is an all-natural kibble packed with probiotics, amino acids, fruits, veggies and multiple protein sources. It’s made in the US, free of corn, wheat and soy, and suitable for all life stages. For every bag sold, one is given to a dog in need.

4.5 lb bag – $17.99 DOGforDOG.com

Proven immune support

Optimal wellness depends on a strong immune system.

Help maintain your four-legged friend’s immune health with ESSIAC® and TRU-PINE®. These legendary Canadian formulas are trusted worldwide by millions of families and holistic veterinarians. With these products, animal parents can feel assured that their furry companions have the best immune system support available.

Contact them for their Christmas specials – regularly $42, now $36.95 essiacforpets.com

The

skinny on treats

The wrong treats can pack on the pounds if you’re not careful – unless you give your dog Zuke’s Skinny Bakes®. The natural animal treat company has expanded its lineup of crunchy ten-calorie treats to include new two-, five- and 20-calorie count varieties. Skinny Bakes are made in the US from natural, whole, high quality food ingredients like yogurt, peanut butter, coconut, fruits and vegetables. $6.99 zukes.com

Keep

track of Toby

Does your best friend like to roam?

Has he ever got lost? Keep tabs on him with Gibi, a GPS location service that helps you find your dog or cat with the click of a button. The easyto-use smartphone app means you always have your companion’s exact location, right on Google Maps. The devices attach to most collars and harnesses, and you get your animal’s location from anywhere with your Internet connected mobile device or computer.

Gibi Master Kit – $129.99 Service – $9.99 per month/$99 per year getgibi.com

40

animal wellness

Giving for greyhounds

Looking for a gift idea for the dog-loving guys on your list?

How about a tie that’s not only made from cruelty-free fabric, but also supports the work of GREY2K USA Worldwide? Every sale of this striking blue tie patterned with green stripes and white greyhounds benefits the organization’s work to end the cruelty of dog racing and promote the rescue of ex-racers. $30

Something special for the

holidays

These look so good you’ll want to sample them yourself! From Treat Dreams Dog Bakery, these festive, natural made-to-order goodies for canines are handmade with organic garbanzo flour, pumpkin, blackstrap molasses and cinnamon, and are free of soy, wheat, corn and preservatives. An extra bonus: garbanzo beans and pumpkin are beneficial for digestive health!

12 treats – $25

grey2kusa.org/ties

treatdreamsthedogbakery.com

animal wellness

41

10

TIPS

This column features comprehensive articles from our Animal Wellness library.

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

for a

D gs Cats

long life

By Deva Khalsa, VMD

You want your furry friend to be with you as long as possible. Incorporating these suggestions into his care will help ensure his health and longevity.

You want to improve your dog or cat’s health, but it can be hard to know where to begin. There are so many factors to be considered.

Taking a holistic approach by looking at all aspects of his care and lifestyle is a good starting point.

This checklist of ten tips will help enhance his health and lengthen his life (and maybe yours too)!

42

animal wellness

SECURITY WITH

supplements

1

Nurture WITH NUTRITION

As conscientious consumers, we review ingredient lists on our own food.

2

I like to think of vitamins and minerals as a form of supplemental health insurance for animals, providing the nutrients needed to maintain health. A quality daily supplement is the most valuable contribution you can make to your dog or cat’s longevity.

To be truly effective, vitamins and minerals need to be balanced, complete and able to be absorbed by the body. For example, powdered dry bone meal, often used in pet supplements, can’t be absorbed, so there’s no nutritional value. Read and compare labels carefully. Choose vitamins that state the milligrams or International Units on the label, and that contain high quality ingredients.

We need to do the same for our animals. Look for labels that state whole meat ingredients like chicken, beef or lamb – not poultry by-products, etc. Choose superior brands of pet food that promise healthier ingredients.

When you’re in the mood, you can do some good ol’ home cookin’ for your best friend. It’s easy and fun to make delicious treats at home.

animal wellness

43

3

VACCINATE

HEAL

carefully

A new puppy or kitten may be stressed – particularly if he just came from a shelter or rescue. Take him for vaccinations when his systems are strong and balanced.

Never vaccinate an animal compromised by an infection or illness. Previously vaccinated dogs and cats can get blood tests that register titers or immune memory in lieu of certain vaccines.

Research has shown that after their one-year boosters, many dogs and cats are protected for five to seven years or longer, depending on the vaccine.

Consider THE CELLS

5

Thinking small has a big effect on longevity. Your animal’s body has trillions of cells organized into specialized tissues and organs. Every cell is in the business of living, and if they all succeed, your dog and cat will live a longer and healthier life.

We typically evaluate food in terms of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. But the real value is in the vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that food contains; these are the tools that cells need to maintain and prolong life. We couldn’t maintain our homes without mops, hammers and nails. Just so, our cells can’t clean out wastes like carcinogens and toxins without the vitamins and minerals that cells need to do their important jobs.

44

animal wellness

holistically

Holistic treatments and therapies are powerful tools that complement and enhance the body’s innate ability to rebalance and restore itself, thus helping your animal overcome illness and disease.

Holistic medicine provides gentle but effective guidance that can remedy many diseases and health problems without the side effects so often associated with more conventional forms of medicine.

Many holistic modalities and techniques are available.

It helps to know which treatment is best for your companion’s specific problem. Chinese herbs work wonderfully with diabetes. Acupuncture and spinal manipulation effectively treat back problems. Allergy elimination techniques like NAET work well for both dogs and cats, while homeopathic remedies treat a wide spectrum of medical problems.

SECRETS OF

superfoods

6

Italian researchers have found that eating as little as one cup of raw vegetables daily can add two years to your life. Today, scientific research is proving what Hippocrates said hundreds of years ago: “Let food be thy medicine.”

Phtytochemicals, contained in what are now aptly dubbed superfoods, have well-documented health benefits. The beautiful colors of many fruits and vegetables are doing a lot more than just looking pretty.

Dark vibrant green kale leaves are rich in compounds with long names like glucosinolates and sulforaphanes.

These help cells “clean up after the party” and clear carcinogenic substances more quickly.

GO

7

green

Adding a bit of green to your companion’s diet can do as much good for the planet as it can for him. Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables has many health benefits, including reducing the risk of cancer. Cats often like cooked asparagus and cantaloupe, while our easier-to-please canine friends love everything from a piece of apple to a broccoli stem.

Create a dog and cat-friendly outdoor environment by using natural fertilizers and pest control. In 2004, the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine linked bladder cancer in Scottish terriers to exposure to lawn chemicals. Rain creates a mist of these chemicals that lingers at the body height of dogs and cats – and many of these animals enjoy chewing occasional blades of grass.

“Green” toys accomplish the same goals as more traditional toys, but impact the environment less.

Non-organic cotton uses more insecticides than any other major crop. Many companies now offer toys, collars and leashes made from organic cotton, hemp or recycled materials.

Believe it or not, eight billion pounds of cat litter wind up in landfills each year! Consider litters made from recycled materials such as wood, pine, bark or natural flushable litters from corn and wheat. Your cats don’t need to ingest chemical-laden scented litter particles as they clean their furry feet.

EXTRA

exercise

8

Regular exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle for all of us – humans, dogs and cats. If it’s not safe for your cat to go outside, make sure he has a scratching post and a selection of toys. Setting aside some time to play with her every day is a great way to give her the exercise she needs, and will improve your own quality of life.

9

All dogs need exercise, even notorious couch-potato breeds. Taking your dog for a long brisk walk is the perfect excuse for you to get some exercise too!

ROUTINE MEDICAL

examinations

A yearly health check helps detect problems before they become serious. Older animals should get yearly blood panels to monitor their health. Those that live in tickinfested regions of the country need yearly blood tests so any tick-borne diseases can be treated promptly, avoiding long term complications.

Quality TIME

10

Dogs and cats are social animals.

Social animals don’t want to be alone – they want company and interesting interactions.

Relationships are an important part of health. Strong bonds with others means protection from loneliness and depression. It works both ways. Healthier animals are happier and happier animals are healthier. Just as important is that both humans and animals benefit from quality time spent together.

We enjoy walks more if we can take a dog along and watch him sniff and explore. Our hearts sing in a special way as we stroke a cat and listen to her purr. Animals and people create a special winning combination.

If our animals could tell us one thing, it might be, “Take time to stop and smell the roses, and enjoy life with me.”

animal wellness

45

By Louisa Lew

hree tiny pit bull puppies were dropped off at a Humane Society shelter in 2009. They were all blind, most likely as a result of irresponsible breeding. The pups were subsequently taken in by the Utah Animal Advocacy Foundation, who gave them the veterinary care they needed before taking them to a local adoption event.

Jen Milner and her partner, Brian, attended that same event.

They fell in love with one of the puppies the moment they saw him, and took him home for a “trial” weekend. The couple named their new friend Stevie because of the way he used his head to navigate, swinging it “back and forth just like Stevie Wonder singing”, says Jen. She and Brian already had several older dogs, who weren’t big fans of puppies, but they learned to accommodate the youngster and would just walk away from Stevie if he got too rambunctious.

On the first day the couple brought Stevie home, they took him for an outing to their local farmers’ market. They couldn’t walk more than five feet without someone approaching to meet Stevie, who was 13 weeks old at the time. “He was adorable,” Jen recalls. “People would see him and want to know his story.”

Stevie was happy to return their friendliness, and it wasn’t long before Jen and Brian realized that his easy-going, gregarious and

charming personality would make him a great candidate for a therapy dog.

Now six years old, Stevie (aka Stevie the Wonder Dog, as he’s known to his Facebook and YouTube fans) is as excited as ever to meet new people and venture to new places. He and Jen are a Delta Society Pet Partners team through Therapy Animals of Utah, and for the last four years have been making bi-monthly visits to the Volunteers of America Detox Center in Salt Lake City, where clients can pet and visit with the amiable pit bull.

Jen and Stevie’s goal during their visits is to help support people working towards recovery, while bringing a smile to their faces.

“A lot of people gravitate to him and are touched by his story,” says Jen. She recalls one particularly memorable incident when a client at the center asked her what Stevie does if he meets someone who is bad. Jen was trying to think of an answer when another client replied, “Stevie sees the good in everyone.”

Stevie has also visited with Girl Scout troops, taken part in library events, and gone into classrooms to interact with schoolkids.

As well, he’s an I’m Not A Monster “Monster” Elf, representing special needs canine “Monsters” and illustrating that “love is blind”. I’m Not A Monster is an advocacy organization that

aspires to improve the image of pit bull breeds and give them the chance they deserve: a world free of abuse, media bias and discriminatory laws. The organization’s annual Monster Holiday Drive was designed to bring cheer to shelter animals, and “Monster” Elves like Stevie are specially chosen to help with the event. During the 2014 holiday season, Stevie and his 73 fellow “Monster” Elves helped collect $422,621, along with toys, blankets, sheets, and treats. They hope to do even better this year.

“An important part of Stevie’s story is that we live in Salt Lake City, a community that has embraced pit bulls,” Jen says. “If we didn’t, it would have been difficult for us to expose him to diverse people and environments and allow his outgoing personality to shine.” Worse, he and his two siblings may not even have been considered worth saving, let alone adopting out, and Stevie wouldn’t be here today to spread his joy and love to others. “In some communities, people would cross the street to avoid dogs like Stevie, but here, people bring young babies to meet him,” says Jen. Known as an ambassador for his breed – and an ambassador of goodwill to everyone he meets – Stevie the Wonder dog has warmed hearts, changed attitudes, and brought smiles to thousands of faces, whether he’s interacting with recovering addicts at the Detox center, helping raise funds for shelter animals in his role as “Monster” Elf, or just making more new friends at the local farmers’ market.

Follow Stevie on Ins @WonderD tagram ogStevie

condition Teddy

is a lanky young Lab mix who loves to run, winter or summer. He arrives at the dog park and races around with such glee that people stop to watch him with delight. Like most dogs, he has a need to exercise, play and stretch his limbs.

Every dog has some athletic ability, although different canines have different innate skills. In fact, current research indicates that most dogs are highly adapted to exercise. They have excellent aerobic capacity, and their bodies are exceptionally efficient at absorbing nutrients from their food, thus making them superb athletes by nature.

48

animal wellness

By Amy Snow & Nancy Zidonis

The activity you select for your dog needs to fit his exercise preferences and his physical capabilities and requirements. Dogs with short legs are happy with “go-to-ground� work or agility training. Retrievers, sight and scent hounds with long legs and long snouts are keen to hunt and hike. Working dogs do their jobs with extraordinary physical and mental intensity, whether the work involves search and rescue, military tasks, or herding.

Whatever the activity, all dogs need and want to participate in something that builds their strength and stamina and challenges their intelligence. Whether your dog is your running companion, hiking buddy, or a top-notch agility competitor, he needs and wants exercise, and that means he also needs conditioning.

CONDITIONING – TIPS TO GET STARTED

Before embarking on any exercise program, have your dog checked out by your veterinarian. Whatever the athletic endeavor, you want to be sure he’s healthy and capable of handling the rigors of the activity. Making physical demands on a dog that’s poorly conditioned is likely to lead to painful injuries.

2

Conditioning programs have a lot in common no matter which sport or activity you and your dog are drawn to. All suggest you wait until your dog has reached skeletal maturity before engaging in strenuous exercise. This will allow his growth plates to solidify and soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to become strong enough to withstand the demands of the workout.

Another wise suggestion given by conditioning professionals – know your dog’s resting heart and respiratory rates so you can assess his recovery from progressive levels of exercise as his strength and endurance build. The average pulse rate for a small dog is 120 to 160 bpm (beats per minute) while a 30 lb to 60 lb dog’s pulse rate is approximately 120 bpm. The larger the dog the slower the pulse. The average canine respiratory rate is 10 to 30 breaths per minute; when panting, the rate can go up to 200 breaths per minute.

Continued on page 50.

animal wellness

49

Continued from page 49.

Other common conditioning program tips: a When initiating training, start slowly and steadily increase “mileage” as the dog’s stamina and strength builds. b Allow a five- to ten-minute warm-up period prior to exercise, and a five- to ten-minute cool-down after exertion. c Research the appropriate diet for the dog’s exercise level. d Don’t feed him right before or after exertion – leave an hour on each side of feeding. e Always monitor safety conditions.

ACUPRESSURE ADDS AN EDGE By combining the advantages of acupressure with your conditioning program, your dog will benefit and perform even better than with exercise training alone. Add acupressure to your dog’s regime, and you are effectively giving him the edge he needs to continuously advance to new levels of conditioning.

Specific acupressure points can contribute to your dog’s cardiovascular conditioning, increase his ability to convert food into fuel, build muscle, and strengthen tendons and ligaments to enhance flexibility. Regularly offering your dog this particular acupressure session will go a long way to supporting his exercise regimen.

These acupressure points are recommended for enhancing endurance for any activity. Offer the session between exercise training bouts.

Lung 9 (Lu 9), Great Abyss – Supports respiratory function and helps build stamina.

50

animal wellness

Stomach 36 (St 36), Leg Three Mile – Known to increase endurance, help with digestion and nutrient absorption, and nourish muscles.

Gall Bladder 34 (GB 34), Yang Mound Spring – Nourishes and strengthens tendons and ligaments, and provides for the smooth flow of energy to all four limbs.

Spleen 6 (Sp 6), Three Yin Meeting – Facilitates blood flow to the muscles, and reduces the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles while also benefiting fatigued extremities.

Every dog deserves to enjoy the vitality that proper conditioning can bring.

Have you tried #acupre ssur Let us know @AW_Ma e? gazine

Giving back A company dedicated to joint and muscle pain relief in animals is also working to raise funds for childhood cancer research.

Alexandra Scott wasn’t even a year old when she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that afflicts young children.

The prognosis was grim, but Alex surprised everyone with her courage and determination. At the age of four, while in hospital for a stem cell transplant, she came up with the idea of setting up a lemonade stand to raise money for childhood cancer research.

With the help and support of her family, Alex held annual lemonade stands in her front yard, despite her own illness. The inspiration spread, and before long, people all over the world were setting up their own lemonade stands and donating the proceeds to Alex and her cause. By the time Alex succumbed to her cancer when she was just eight years old, more than $1 million had been raised.

“I have always supported different cancer foundations and Alex’s story really touched my heart,” says Bo. “I have seen the suffering this disease causes as two very close friends lost their lives way too early in life; and I find it even more sad and heartbreaking when it hits young children. Alex’s short but courageous life greatly inspired me and I feel hopeful we can all contribute to finding a cure.”

Today, almost 12 years after her passing, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer is raising awareness of childhood cancers, and funds for ongoing research into new treatments and cures. Now a national non-profit with thousands of volunteers, it has so far raised over $100 million and funded over 500 research projects.

Back on Track manufactures joint and muscle protection products for dogs, people and horses, using a special “ceramic textile” made of polyester, polypropylene or cotton fibers with a ceramic powder fused into them. The ceramic gives the fabric its unique property, which is that it reflects body heat in the form of infrared heat radiation, for a warming, healing and soothing effect. Therapeutic products for dogs include blankets and leg/hock wraps, which help prevent strains and injury and ease and expedite the recovery of existing injuries. They can also help alleviate the discomfort of arthritis and may even improve mobility. The company also offers a therapeutic travel bed and crate liner that relax your dog’s muscles and relieve joint pain.

One company that’s doing its part to support this worthy cause is Back on Track. Under the leadership of company owner Bo Lofvander, Back on Track is holding a fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand by matching dollar-for-dollar every donation people make at alexslemonade.org/mypage/1191982 or through backontrackproducts.com. The goal is to raise $50,000.

It’s clear that with his desire to help both animals and children, Bo has a big heart. “I want to make a difference for these young children and their families, and what better way than to use the company as a tool to reach as many individuals as possible. It gives me great satisfaction to be able to give to this wonderful foundation.” animal wellness

51

MUSIC

D gs Cats

By Susan Wagner, DVM

S

ound is a major factor of our surroundings, especially in today’s loud, fast-paced world. Noise pollution can be a significant stressor for both animals and humans, while healing music can calm us and improve our lives.

Sound consists of waves of energy. How fast a wave is traveling, or its frequency, is measured in hertz (Hz). One Hz is defined as one wave cycle per second. Humans hear frequencies of 20 to 20,000 Hz, while dogs hear a much wider range of 40 to 65,000 Hz.

Loudness is measured in decibels (dB). Hearing damage occurs at 100dB, but can also be caused by prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85dB – a level frequently reached in animal shelter environments.

52

30dB 50dB 70dB

animal wellness

Traffic Lawnmower Rock concert

70dB 90dB 130dB

Psychoacoustics is a discipline that studies how humans perceive sound – how we listen, our psychological responses, and the physiological impact of music and sound on the nervous system. Bioacoustics, meanwhile, is the study of sound perception in animals. It looks at how animals communicate, as well as the positive and negative effects of sound in their environments.

Two of the most important principles of psychoacoustics and bioacoustics are resonance and entrainment.

1

As you can see from the below, many of us are at risk for hearing loss: Whisper Conversation Alarm clock

RESONANCE AND ENTRAINMENT

Resonance describes the effect of one vibration (or frequency) on another. For example, placing a tuning fork on the spine allows the sound vibration to resonate through the entire nervous system.

Entrainment is the process by which sound rhythms cause major body systems (heart rate, brain waves and breath) to naturally speed up or slow down. For example, if we listen to slow music, our pulse and breathing will decrease.

2

DO A SONIC EVALUATION

You may want to do a sonic evaluation of your home, especially if you have an anxious or reactive dog or cat. Take a few minutes to listen to and note down all the sounds you (and your animal) hear – the results may surprise you. We humans are masters at tuning out what’s happening around us, so your environment may be noisier than you realize.

Slow, psychoacousticallyarranged piano music has the most calming effects.

Remember that our nervous systems also have an orienting response, so creating a healthy sound environment with appropriate music may improve your well-being as well as that of your four-legged family member.

THE ORIENTING RESPONSE Pattern identification is another component of bioacoustics and psychoacoustics, and is related to the complexity of sound.

When a new pattern is introduced, the focus of the brain turns to this sensory input. This is termed active listening. Once the pattern has been processed, the brain returns to a passive hearing state.

This is an instinctive process that also occurs in animals. This orienting response is a survival mechanism, and is especially

important in prey animals. The ear pinna of dogs and cats allow the reception of sound to occur on a much more sensitive level than in humans. We have all witnessed the sudden arousal of an animal when an unusual or loud sound is heard. While the orienting response is important for the animal’s survival, it also has some negative consequences in domestic environments, where he is exposed to sounds that may continually activate his orienting response. Even though these environmental sounds may not elicit overt fear, the ongoing instinctive reaction to sudden noise can interrupt the animal’s relaxed state.

MUSIC IS THE ANSWER

The effects of music have been well documented in humans, and studies with domestic and other animals have revealed that music also has a powerful effect on them. For example, studies showed that country music can calm ponies while classical music helped cows produce more milk and improved the growth rate of chickens. A recent study in cats demonstrated that calming music increased the depth of anesthesia during surgery. Dolphins, meanwhile, have been known to swim in synchrony to Bach.

A study done in Ireland found that classical music is the preferred calming sound source in dog shelters. Research done by Through a Dog’s Ear took this a step further and applied the principles of resonance, entrainment, and the orienting response to classical music selections. It discovered that slow, psychoacoustically-arranged single instrument (piano) music had the most calming effects.

Upwards of 70% of dogs in shelters and veterinary offices, and 85% of dogs in home environments, became noticeably calmer with this music. It was also found to reduce twice as many anxiety behaviors in fearful dogs as standard classical selections did. Many animal shelters are now benefitting from programs that provide calming music for their residents. animal wellness

53

THE SCOOP A WINNING COMBINATION

Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute (TgAAI) and the Chicago School of Canine Massage (CSCM) recently announced that they are combining their small animal and equine training programs to provide the best of both disciplines. These two schools offer the most comprehensive hands-on training programs in animal acupressure and massage. animalacupressure.com, chicagoschoolofcaninemassage.com

BONE BROTH

The Honest Kitchen’s Bone Broth is great for cold winter nights with your pup or kitty. It contains turmeric, which has been found to reduce inflammation and support flexibility.

A healthy source of collagen and chondroitin, the broth is great served as a liquid treat, poured over kibble or used to hydrate Honest Kitchen foods. thehonestkitchen.com

DO DOGS REDUCE STRESS IN KIDS?

The Human Animal Bond Research Initiative awarded a $26,000 grant to Yale University for a study to examine the effects of interactions with dogs on children dealing with stress. The study will involve 73 children and randomly assign them support from a dog, support from an object, or no support. Researchers will then compare the stress levels in each group. habri.org or psychology.yale.edu

SOOTHE HIS SKIN

Sturtevant’s Veterinary Canine formula is an all-natural 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 long-lasting, and contains no steroids or antibiotics. Made and packaged in the US. SturtevantsVetRemedies.com

SERVICE DOG DENIED ACCESS TO FLIGHT

In September, Axel was named Service Dog of the Year at the American Humane Association’s Hero Dog Awards. But on his way home, he was denied permission to board his American Airlines flight, even though guardian Captain Jason Haag followed the requirements for a service dog to travel. The airline has apologized, but AHA is urging all airlines to better train their staff so other service dogs aren’t left behind. behumane.org

54

animal wellness

CALMING INFLUENCE

Life is stressful for dogs and cats too. Calm My Pet Unscented Essences are formulated by a holistic veterinarian to help animals feel their best. They’re all-natural, alcohol-free and glycerinfree. Made using a homeopathic process, these essences naturally support your animal’s health and well-being. calmmypet.com

BOOSTING ADOPTABILITY

Veterinarian Dr. M. Leanne Lilly of Penn Vet’s Ryan Hospital is beginning a special internship at the Francisvale Home for Smaller Animals in Radnor, PA. By assessing and treating animals with behavioral problems, and establishing a training program for shelter staff and volunteers, she hopes to help make the animal residents more adoptable. vet.upenn.edu

LISTEN TO THE MUSIC

Clinical studies have shown that specific musical vibrations, sounds and tempos can have a calming effect on animals. Founded by holistic veterinarian Dr. Pamela Fisher, the Rescue Animal Mp3 Project is a non-profit that donates calming music via Mp3 players to animal shelters and rescue groups across the US. RescueAnimalMp3.org

FLOWER POWER

Flower essences can ease many emotional and behavioral issues. BlackWing Farms offers simple, inexpensive and effective flower essences for separation anxiety, fear and panic, emotional trauma, phobias and more. They’re 100% vegan and contain no chemicals, Handcrafted in California using only ecologically sustainable ingredients. blackwingfarms.com

HIP TO BE HEALTHY

Mobility problems can make your buddy miserable. New from Grizzly Pet Products, Grizzly Joint Aid Hip and Joint Product for Dogs can help. Available in either liquid or mini-pellet form, it supports healthy hips and joints, improves mobility, and helps maintain joint, cartilage and connective tissue structure and function. grizzlypetproducts.com

animal wellness

55

The Pointer Brothers

By Ann Brightman

These Instagram sensations

loved striking

a pose together.

56

animal wellness

You’d swear these two guys came from the same litter, but The Pointer Brothers weren’t actually related. “We adopted Gus at nine months old from a shelter, the day before he was scheduled to be euthanized,” says Steph McCombie. “I found him online and decided to adopt him without meeting him because he was out of time. Travis, meanwhile, was almost ten years old when we adopted him. His previous family could no longer care for him, and we were going to foster him for a rescue organization, but we fell in love after about five minutes and decided he should stay!”

Both German short-haired pointers, Gus and Travis bore a striking resemblance to one another and loved modeling with each other before Travis’ recent passing at the end of July (more about that later). “They both have hilarious facial expressions and are so full of personality,” Steph says of the photos. These are just a few reasons why they look so natural together. Another reason is that Steph happens to be a creative shutterbug.

“I always had my camera in their faces,” she laughs. “Travis was a bit nervous of the camera at first, but we worked with lots of treats and eventually he would sit and pose as soon as he saw the camera. I was taking and posting so many photos of them on my personal Instagram that I decided to start one of their own and titled it ifitwags – and it took off! Instagram has featured me a few times on their blog, and ifitwags has also been featured on TV and radio shows, and in newspapers and magazines.” The canine duo also have their own Facebook page, and both sites feature dozens of delightful images of the photogenic pair, drolly modeling everything from Santa hats and beards for the holiday season, to bow ties, hoodies, sunglasses, anoraks and balaclavas.

“I always get inspired by the seasons,” says Steph, who lives with her human and canine family in Vancouver, Canada. “I think because they both had such dignified and serious-looking faces, the funny shoots of them surrounded by props or wearing something amusing are even more charming. They were always up to trying anything and loved ‘working’ for me because they got rewarded.”

Despite their excellent working relationship, Gus and Travis had very individual personalities. Still a relative youngster at almost six years old, Gus has a bit of a wild streak, and is smart and active.

“He’s an athlete, he lives for being outside, chasing birds, running, swimming and playing,” says Steph. “He’s sensitive and snores really loudly. He dances around with a shoe in his mouth when you come in the door. Travis was a gentleman, a protector, and the best cuddler. He slept in the funniest positions and loved to be buried under the covers. He hated getting wet, and lived for dinnertime.

Travis was so in tune with me and my feelings, full of love and a master of bed-hogging. But his nose also had a tendency to get him into places he shouldn’t have gone! Just before we adopted him, he

Both sites feature dozens of delightful images of the photogenic pair, drolly modeling everything from Santa hats to bow ties, hoodies, sunglasses, anoraks and balaclavas. animal wellness

57

A

natural CARE APPROACH

Steph feeds her dogs a raw diet, and does titer testing in place of annual vaccines. “The dogs also get probiotics, oils, and green mineral supplements. Travis received massage while he was sick, and before that both he and Gus were going to the chiropractor. In fact, Travis took part in a study about urine leakage and spine alignment in dogs (he used to empty his bladder while he was sleeping). After a few sessions of chiropractic and acupuncture, he completely stopped leaking and never leaked again. After he developed cancer, we used a new mushroom therapy to try and shrink the tumors, as well as Chinese medicine for when he had bleeds.

“We also see a homeopath for Gus' separation anxiety and have used an animal communicator.” was on a hike with his family and went into a bear’s den. Mama bear was in there with her cubs, and Travis was attacked. He lost some muscle in his back leg and a big part of his stomach.”

Sadly, Travis was diagnosed with cancer at the end of June.

“He declined very quickly,” Steph says. “One of my favorite photos shows him and Gus snuggled up on the couch on one of Travis’ ‘down days’. Gus climbed up beside him as if to give him comfort, and they both fell asleep. Travis’ cancer journey taught us to appreciate what we have, and to live for each day. It made our family bond stronger, as we all had to pull together for ‘Travy’. As sad as it was, I am so grateful we got to spend that last month with him and tell him how loved and special he was.

Now that he’s gone, the memories I cherish the most are just of Gus and Travis together. They had such an amazing bond.”

- Gus 58

animal wellness

When Steph posted the news of Travis’ passing on July 26, she was deluged with messages of condolence from his many fans.

“The support has been unbelievable. The love and messages I’ve received turned something sad and awful into something heartwarming. I’ve had ten different people tell me that Travis is the reason they rescued a German short-haired pointer!

“After he passed, my partner Josh and I wanted to do something for dogs in his honor,” Steph continues. “We picked up four shelter dogs in Washington and drove them to a rescue in Vancouver, where they have a better chance of being adopted.

We fostered one named Gertie, who has now found a forever home, and are now fostering another German short-haired pointer called Elwin. Fostering is healing our hearts. Opening our home to dogs in need and helping them get ready for their forever families is just what we needed to help us heal.”

Even though Travis is gone, he’ll continue to live on in the hearts of thousands. He and Gus still have a strong Internet presence, thanks to the many photos Steph took of the duo while he was alive, and she continues uploading photos of Gus and her foster dogs. “I usually post photos daily and do special images for holidays,” she says.

When asked what direction she’ll be going in next, Steph indicates she has no intention of scaling back. “I want to bring more awareness to dog rescue. I think the next thing will be a book; I want to make a coffee table book, dedicated to Travis, with proceeds going to dog rescue. I want people to see how amazing rescue dogs are!”

Follow on Instag ram @ifitwags

“I’ve had ten different people tell me that Travis is the reason they rescued a German shorthaired pointer!”

- Travis

animal wellness

59

PASSAGES

By Sherri A. Stanczak

When I first got my little Yorkie, I thought she was the cutest thing I ever saw. She was so tiny, cuddly and funny. She gave me something to look forward to and she seemed to bring a little life back to our house.

barking at the window while he was eating in the living room.

When he got up to make sure no one was outside, Angel jumped on the couch and tried to steal the food off of his plate. She outsmarted us many times!

My youngest son had just graduated from high school and was getting his own place. Empty nest syndrome was definitely setting in. In addition, I am very sick with multiple sclerosis, spina bifida and another rare spinal defect. My husband is supportive but works long hours, which leaves me with a lot of alone time – until I got my Yorkie. I named her Angel, and she totally lived up to her name. She made me smile again and helped me get out of bed even when I wasn't feeling well. She seemed to know when I was having a bad day, because she’d lie on my legs when they hurt, lick my eyes when they went blurry, and cuddle with me when I was upset.

Angel was diagnosed with Cushing's disease right before she turned seven. The weird thing is that I was diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome at about the same time. Our blood work results were almost identical.

Angel could also be feisty and liked to put on a show. She stole my pen when I was writing. She lay across my laptop when I was trying to type. She jumped around teasing me and making me laugh. She went boating with us, walking with us and even tried manipulating us to get her way. I remember her going outside just to try to get treats out of me; it worked a few times until I caught on to her. She sometimes tricked my husband by

60

animal wellness

As time went on, I knew my little Angel was dying. My own disease was painful, but not fatal. Hers was both. But I didn't know how to let her go. We were together 24/7; she ate with me, slept with me, and went with me almost everywhere. I loved her like my child. She was such a huge part of my life.

Angel waited until a month after my 49th birthday before she passed away. I guess in doggie years, we were actually the same age. Her last week was tough; she was at the vet a few times, once overnight. We at least got to take her to the river one last time. Angel really loved it out there. During the last two days of her life, I lay with her, brushed her and talked to her constantly.

I don't think she wanted to leave me, and I definitely didn't want her to go. I did everything possible to keep her with me,

but she couldn't hang on any longer. I held her one more time after she took her last breath, and then we buried her in the backyard.

All of sudden, I felt useless and helpless. I didn't want to get out of bed. I couldn't stop crying. I didn't realize how much of a purpose Angel had given me; she was my reason to get up and get going, and now she was gone.

When my husband saw what the loss was doing to me, and how much it was affecting my health, he thought it was a good idea to get another dog right away. I made a few phone calls and decided to rescue another little Yorkie. Zoey was four when we adopted her, and had spent most of her life in a kennel since her people worked so many hours. Zoey took to me within the first half hour of our ride home, snuggling peacefully in my lap and falling fast asleep.

I have had Zoey for several months now. She has fit perfectly into our lifestyle. She cuddles with me any time I am sitting or lying down. She is playful and as cute as a bug. She loves to go boating with us. In fact, she loves to go anywhere I go.

Her previous family feels I rescued her, but she actually rescued me. She has given me back my purpose. Since my boys are grown up and independent, they don't need me so much anymore. Nor am I able to work any longer. But when a little doggie needs a home and a lot of love – that I can do!

Even though I love Zoey, there will always be room in my heart for Angel. She will never be forgotten. I go out and talk to her from time to time. Her grave has an angel statue in front of it. One day, I went out to talk to her because I felt guilty for replacing her so soon after she died. When I walked down to her grave, I saw a large white feather lying on the ground. Some people might say it just came from a white bird, but I know it’s from my Angel's wings. She earned them here on earth and is still watching over me. That feather is now in my room and is a special reminder of the love we had for each other. Rest in peace, my Angel. animal wellness

61

Taking your dog on a road trip to visit friends or family this (or any other time)? This checklist will help ensure everything goes smoothly.

festive season

The holidays bring joy, excitement, and warm gatherings with family and friends. They’re also one of the busiest times of year for road travel, and that can create stress, especially if you’re taking your dog with you. With proper preparation and planning, however, your trip can be safe and stress-free.

The first consideration should be your dog’s comfort. Be honest.

Does he enjoy travel, or does he get anxious and uneasy? Not every dog travels well, and if yours is one of them, it may be better to leave him with a pet sitter. Yes, you’ll miss him and he’ll miss you, but you’ll both be better off in the long run. And reuniting with him will give you something to look forward to when the holidays are over and it’s time to come home.

If you know your dog is travel-worthy, the following checklist can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

62

animal wellness

By Ramona D. Marek, MS Ed.

Stress-free holiday travel

BEFORE YOU LEAVE Start by making sure your dog is going to be okay in the car, especially if it’s awhile since he’s been driven anywhere further than the local park or vet’s office Make a few trial trips to help him get reacquainted with your vehicle and its movement.

“It’s important to let your dog get used to the shape and smell of his crate or carrier, harness and/or car seat several days (or weeks) before the trip,” says Healthy Pet Coach, Jodi Ziskin. “Leave these items out at home out for him to investigate. If he’ll be traveling in a carrier or crate, putting treats inside it can create interest and even encourage him to nap in it.” Also make sure the crate or carrier can be safely secured in the car.

It’s a good idea to bring the food your dog is used to eating at home, in order to avoid digestive upsets. If this isn’t possible for whatever reason, “acclimatize your dog to the diet he will be eating on your trip,” says Jodi. “I recommend freeze-dried foods for many reasons – they are lightweight, easy to prepare and are nutritionally bioappropriate.” If you are going the freeze-dried route, look for natural, premium products.

If your dog hasn’t been to the vet lately, schedule a check-up to ensure he’s healthy for travel.

“The herb slippery elm can relieve an upset stomach,” says Jodi.

“Simply mix the dried herb with some water, enough to make a liquid or paste. For small dogs, use ¼ to ½ teaspoon; for medium dogs, one to two teaspoons; and for large dogs, two teaspoons to one tablespoon. In liquid form, it can be administered with a syringe; and in paste form, some dogs will lick it right off a finger. It can be mixed with a little food or yogurt. This can be repeated four or five times a day.”

ONE

If you’re staying with family or friends, check ahead to see if your dog is going to be welcome at their home. Will he be allowed on the furniture? Must he sleep in a crate? Does he get along with other animals, both dogs and cats, and is he good with children? If he won’t be allowed on furniture, practice having him stay off the couch at home in the days or weeks before you leave, using positive reinforcement. If he must sleep in a crate overnight while at your destination, practice this at home too. If possible, take along his own bed and bedding.

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR NAUSEA

“Chamomile relaxes stomach muscles and can relieve excess gas and nausea. Simply brew a bag of chamomile tea and let it cool. Pour over food or add it to your dog’s water. Some dogs will drink it straight! For small dogs, less than ¼ cup one to three times a day; medium sized dogs, ¼ to ½ cup one to three times per day; and for large dogs, 1/2 to 1 cup one to three times per day.”

TWO

It’s a good idea to plan out your entire route and make note of where and when you’ll be stopping for potty and exercise breaks, or to eat and rest.

Make sure he had adequate ID and that the information is complete and up to date.

Is it going to take you more than one day to get where you’re going?

If so, you’ll need accommodations. Dog-friendly hotels and inns are getting easier to find but be sure to research their individual policies.

Read online reviews to get an idea of what they’re like. The holiday season is a busy time, so make your reservations well in advance. Be sure to speak to a real person, and get a receipt. Ask for a ground floor room, near an exit for easier access when you have to take your dog out.

Packing is almost as big a consideration for your dog as it is for you. See the sidebar on the next page for a list of things to take.

WHILE ON THE ROAD Make sure your dog is properly secured and comfortable before you set out. If he gets nauseated in the car, make sure you have some remedies on hand (see sidebar top right). You don’t want the driver to be distracted by a dog who gets free of his crate or harness, or who is fussing, restless or sick.

Whether your journey will take a few hours or a couple of days, try to follow your dog’s routine as closely as possible. Whenever you can, stick to the usual times for feeding, exercising, playing animal wellness

63

Packing for your pooch

Enough food and treats for the duration of the trip plus ❑ extra in case of an emergency. If you’ll stopping overnight somewhere on the way, and be are packing canned dog food, don’t forget a can opener .

❑ A jug of water from home for breaks and/or hotel stays. ❑ Food and water bowls.

Medications and/or supplements for the duration ❑ of the trip, plus some extras.

❑

His health records, and your vet’s telephone number. Because things happen.

❑ Animal first aid kit.

Current photos of ❑ separa ted.

your dog in case you get

A roll of paper towels and an old towel in case of ❑ accide nts.

Your dog’s bedding, and a favorite blanket and toy, ❑ for comfort.

❑ Crate or carrier. ❑ Collar or harness, and leash. ❑ Plastic bags for clean-up en route.

and sleeping. Take along some familiar comfort items like a favorite blanket or toy.

It’s a good idea to plan out your entire route and make note of where and when you’ll be stopping for potty and exercise breaks, or to eat and rest.

Wherever you stop, remember to properly pick up after your dog and dispose of his waste responsibly.

Never leave your dog unattended in your vehicle – dogs are as susceptible to cold weather as to hot. He might get anxious or even panicky at being left alone in the car in a strange place, and there’s the risk of theft as well.

CANINE LIFE VERSATILE NUTRITIOUS CONVENIEN T DELICIOUS

®

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED FROM COAST TO COAST!

Creating a Fresh Whole Foods Diet for Your Dog’s Optimum Health!

Special Cancer Formulation available

www.theskyesthelimit.com • www.westcoastcaninelife.com

A percentage of the proceeds from all Canine Life products is donated to The Smiling Blue Skies ® Cancer Fund. www.smilingblueskies.com

64

animal wellness

Give yourself some extra time. You may need to stop more often than you think you will, breaks can take longer than you anticipate, and that means it will take longer to get where you’re going. Be patient, go with the flow and expect the unexpected.

Properly planning your holiday road trip with your dog is well worth the time and effort. Being prepared can mean the difference between a safe, relaxed and enjoyable experience, and one filled with tension and upset. And who wants more stress, especially this time of year?

Meat of the matter

By Charlotte Walker

Sustainably-raised, grass-fed meats form the foundation of this company’s pet food products.

our dog needs fresh, whole meats in his diet in order to thrive. The problem is, almost all the meat sold in grocery stores and used in pet foods comes from grain-fed feedlot animals. This meat isn’t nearly as healthy as it could be, and the way it’s raised puts a lot of stress on the environment.

But in many cases, it’s the only choice you have, since the vast majority of farms raise their meat this way.

One notable exception is US Wellness Meats, a Missouribased company founded 15 years ago by four farming families who saw a real need to move away from the practices of big agribusiness and toward grass-fed, free range, sustainably-raised meat, which is much healthier, cleaner, and richer in nutrients than meat raised in feedlots.

“The company uses a grazing-based production model, and was based on the premise that consumers would appreciate the advantages of increased Omega 3s, reduced Omega 6s, and sharply higher CLA levels [CLA, short for conjugated linoleic acid, is an essential fatty acid that has been shown to fight cancer] provided by grass-fed as opposed to grain-fed meats,” says John Wood, one of the founders along with Kenneth Suter, John Lesser and James Crum.

Although US Wellness Meats started out producing grass-fed beef for human consumption, they also have a line of raw meat products for dogs, thanks to requests from their customers. “Our

John Wood tempts Buc k with a treat from U.S. Wellness Meats.

pet food started out as ground burger – a mixture of ground beef and heart and liver trim,” says John.

Today, the pet food line includes a selection of nutrient-rich raw products. “Our centerpieces are the raw ground beef burger, and ground chicken and duck backs and frames,” John says. “Second in popularity are our beef marrow bones; peeled beef knuckle bones, which are brimming with cartilage; beef knuckle joints with connective tissue and cartilage; pork ham bones; and lamb marrow bones. Organ meats are also very popular and we feature organs from beef, lamb, duck and chicken. In addition, we offer two beef tripe selections.

“We wanted to keep our pet food inventory very simple, without any of the additives that are so plentiful in commercial pet foods,” John continues. “We are one of the few suppliers of grass-fed, free range raw pet food, and can deliver by Fed Ex to any household in the US.” US Wellness Meats is rooted in strong, simple values that not only yield superior food products, but just as importantly place a high priority on the health of the land and the people and animals who live on it. John sums it up well when he says: “What we do is good for the land, the plant community, the rural community, our families, our consumers and their companion animals.”

That’s something to be proud of! animal wellness

65

To the Rescue esy of Ka thy Wesle y

Angels Among Us Pet Rescue

Above: Angels Among Us hosts regular adoption, educational and fundraising events to increase public awareness and find homes for animals in need.

Top right: Elderly animals are often difficult to adopt out, but the organization works hard to place them with loving families.

u Photo co

Photo cour

rtesy of C

tesy of Kath

lark Kent

y Wesley

Photo co urt

Rescue code: AWA120

Follow on Faceb

facebook.com/a

ook

ngelsrescue

Bottom right: This blind kitten is one of many disabled animals that are rescued and cared for.

Location: Atlanta, GA Year established: 2009 Number of staff/volunteers/foster homes: Over 800 fosters, and more than 1,500 volunteers Types of animal they work with: Dogs and cats, mostly rescued from high kill county shelters in Georgia. “We take the hard to adopt, the injured, the elderly and the pregnant animals,” says Anne Clarke, Event & Marketing Director volunteer. AAUPR also takes abused, disabled and bait dogs – all animals that would top the list for euthanasia.

“We do home checks for fosters as required by the Department of Agriculture. But we also home check our adopters. We want to make sure the animal is a good fit for the home, and get to really know our adopters.”

66

animal wellness

Fundraising projects: “The social media boom has allowed us to gain funding from all over the world. AAUPR has grown because of lots of small donations via social media, our website and weekly adoption events. We also reach out to the community with educational events and general fundraising events at local businesses.”

Favorite rescue story: “Erik was a stray dog who got caught in the wheels of a car and dragged on asphalt for several miles,” says Anne. “The entire left side of his face was gone and parts of his pelvis were mashed flat. Many would have turned away from him, but we took him in and got him to an emergency veterinary surgeon who repaired his face and body, and got him through the trauma. Erik was eventually adopted by his foster family. He touched so many and was literally ‘saved by a village’ of caring hearts. He also inspired us to start spreading the word about our animals on social media, leading to the rescue and rehoming of thousands of animals.” angelsrescue.org, facebook.com/angelsrescue and @AngelsRescue on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest

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

For their full stories, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

CANADA

DINO Rescue Calgary, AB Rescue Code: AWA203 www.dinorescue.com Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund Calgary, AB Rescue Code: AWA138 www.smilingblueskies.com Pilots and Paws Canada Vancouver, BC Rescue Code: AWA112 www.pilotsnpawscanada.com NWT SPCA Yellowknife, NT Rescue Code: AWA005 www.nwtspca.com Boxer Rescue Ontario Oakville, ON Rescue Code: AWA217 www.boxerrescueontario.com Canadian Dachshund Rescue Hamilton, ON Rescue Code: AWA226 www.wienerdogrescue.com Guelph Humane Society Guelph, ON Rescue Code: AWA218 www.guelphhumane.ca Helping Homeless Pets Markham, ON Rescue Code: AWA024 www.helpinghomelesspets.com Peterborough Humane Society Peterborough, ON Rescue Code: AWA151 www.PeterboroughHumaneSociety.ca Westies In Need Tottenham, ON Rescue Code: AWA039 www.westiesinneed.com

USA

Rocky Ridge Refuge Midway, AR Rescue Code: AWA089 www.RockyRidgeRefuge.com Canine Cancer Foundation Phoenix, AZ Rescue Code: AWA013 www.wearethecure.org Boxer Rescue LA Venice, CA Rescue Code: AWA191 www.boxer-rescue-la.com Bullies and Buddies Redondo Beach, CA Rescue Code: AWA206 www.bulliesandbuddies.com Leave No Paws Behind, Inc. Sun Valley, CA Rescue Code: AWA229 www.leavenopawsbehind.org

Muttville Senior Dog Rescue San Francisco, CA Rescue Code: AWA116 www.muttville.org

Rocky Mountain Animal Rescue Ranch Imnaha, OR Rescue Code: AWA032 www.animalrescueranch.com

Delaware Humane Association Claymont, DE Rescue Code: AWA009 www.dehumane.org

GROWL Williston, SC Rescue Code: AWA176 www.mygrowl.com

Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc. Oakland Park, FL Rescue Code: AWA168 www.catdogs.org

Feral Friends Community Cat Alliance Richardson, TX Rescue Code: AWA134 www.feralfriends.org

The Cat Network Miami, FL Rescue Code: AWA045 www.thecatnetwork.org

Furry Friendz Animal Rescue & Wildlife Rehabiliataion Kaufman, TX Rescue Code: AWA135 www.FurryFriendzy.org

First Coast No More Homeless Pets Jacksonville, FL Rescue Code: AWA095 www.fcnmhp.org Angels Among Us Pet Rescue Alpharetta, GA Rescue Code: AWA120 www.angelsrescue.org Georgia Center for Humane Education Atlanta, GA Rescue Code: AWA177 www.Human-animalbond.org Lifeline Animal Project Atlanta, GA Rescue Code: AWA021 www.LifelineAnimal.org Anderson Animal Shelter South Elgin, IL Rescue Code: AWA172 www.andersonanimalshelter.org Animal House Shelter Huntley, IL Rescue Code: AWA072 www.animalhouseshelter.com Gentle Giants Rescue and Sanctuary Wayne, NJ Rescue Code: AWA068 www.gentlegiantsinc.org One Step Closer Animal Rescue Sparta, NJ Rescue Code: AWA027 www.OscarAnimalRescue.org Bobbi and the Strays Glendale, NY Rescue Code: AWA085 www.bobbiandthestrays.org North Shore Animal League America Port Washington, NY Rescue Code: AWA107 www.animalleague.org Sanctuary for Senior Dogs Cleveland, OH Rescue Code: AWA092 www.sanctuaryforseniordogs.org West Side Cats Youngstown, OH Rescue Code: AWA231 www.westsidecats.org

SAVE Rescue Coalition Houston, TX Rescue Code: AWA212 www.saverescue.org SPCA of East Texas Tyler, TX Rescue Code: AWA077 www.spcaeasttx.com Greyhounds Rock Spotsylvania, VA Rescue Code: AWA157 www.greyhoundsrock.org Wags to Riches Yakima, WA Rescue Code: AWA050 www.wagstorichesanimalrescue.org For Cat's Sake Rescue West Milwaukee, WI Rescue Code: AWA241 www.forcatssake.org Lakeland Animal Shelter Elkhorn, WI Rescue Code: AWA180 www.lakelandanimalshelter.org Dog is my CoPilot Jackson Hole, WY Rescue Code: AWA080 www.dogismycopilot.com

SUBSCRIBE & WE WILL DONATE

25%

TO A RESCUE!

It's easy!

1 Choose a rescue from this list ubscribe at 2 SAnimalWellnessMagazine.com/subscribe 3 Enter rescue code for chosen rescue 4 Enjoy your subscription! animal wellness

67

By Judy Morgan, DVM

68

animal wellness

Not only do I advocate the use of real foods, I also advocate foods that help heal specific conditions.

From a TCVM approach, all foods affect the body in multiple ways.

healthy life

TCVM PERSPECTIVE

Food can do one of two things – build health or produce disease.

The better the nutrients we put into the body, the better the body will perform. It’s impossible for our dogs to attain good health if we feed them processed foods, sugars, dyes, and high-carbohydrate diets.

healthy life

Feeding your dog from a

“You are what you eat” is a phrase that can be traced back to the early 19th century. It was originally attributed to the famous gastronome, Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, when he stated: “Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are.” As a holistic veterinarian, I fully agree.

In fact, I believe that food is the foundation of life.

1

Warming or cooling.

Foods like venison, chicken and lamb (Yang foods) add heat to the body. Dogs do not sweat, so they will pant and drink more water to cool themselves when given foods that are energetically hot.

Certain diseases also produce a lot of heat in the body, including inflammatory conditions like arthritis, diabetes, Cushing’s Disease, and infections. Feeding diets that contain a lot of warming or Yang foods is contraindicated for such conditions.

Dogs that are cold, lethargic and low in energy, however, may benefit from foods that produce more heat in the body. Warming foods can be a great addition to the diet during the winter.

Other foods, like melons, help cool the body. Most meats tend to be warmer or more Yang in energy, but cold water fish and rabbit tend to be cooler (more Yin).

Dogs with inflammatory conditions would be better served by eating these cooling proteins. Most dogs with allergic skin disease, for example, fare better when fed a cooling protein like fish or rabbit. For years, veterinarians have advocated lamb or venison for dogs with chronic skin infections, dry skin, or inflammatory bowel disease. From a TCM perspective, however, these would be the wrong proteins, since we should be trying to “cool” the inflammation from the inside.

Increasing energy

2

. In addition to warming or cooling the body, foods can be used as Qi tonics to add energy. Qi is the energy of life, which means old or weak dogs need foods that will increase this energy.

Some common Qi tonics include meats like beef, chicken, rabbit, lamb and tripe, and vegetables like pumpkin, squash, sweet potato and Shiitake mushrooms. These ingredients can be used to make home-cooked meals if you work with a veterinary nutritionist or holistic veterinarian.

Or, you could make a ‘topper’ stew from these foods to add to your dog’s current diet.

Continued on page 70.

animal wellness

69

3 4 Continued from page 69.

Decreasing phlegm. Food can also be used

to decrease phlegm production, which is commonly seen with sinus infections and other diseases, like dry eye, in which mucus is formed. Clams, radishes, kelp, pears and apples are great for decreasing mucus.

Foods to avoid would include any dairy products, since milk is really just a form of mucus.

MOST DOGS WITH ALLERGIC SKIN DISEASE FARE BETTER WHEN FED A COOLING PROTEIN LIKE FISH OR RABBIT.

Resolving stagnation. Tumors, lumps and bumps can be made to dissolve or decrease in

size by feeding the dog foods that resolve stagnation. The easiest way to illustrate stagnation is to think of a bruise, an area where blood has pooled or become stagnant. It has a lavender color and is painful to the touch. Tumors are just another form of stagnation, in which blood and energy have become ‘stuck’. To help move the blood and decrease stagnation, we can give the dog foods like lamb, venison, crab, shrimp, radishes, ginger, turmeric and vinegar.

These are just a few examples of how food can be used from a TCVM perspective to heal health issues in dogs. Working with a holistic veterinarian who specializes in food therapy is the next step in determining which foods might benefit your own dog the most.

CASE REPORT – Dexter

When Dexter joined our family as a puppy, I fed him a premium kibble, Omega-rich eggs, cooked meats, fatty acids and supplements. My long term goal was to home cook all his meals, but I was worried I would fail to meet his nutritional needs by missing something.

Dexter was later diagnosed with Chiari malformation and syringomyelia. Chiari malformation is a skull defect, and syringomyelia is a neurological disease caused by the malformation. Syringomyelia progresses and varies in severity.

There is no cure, only various treatments to keep the dog comfortable. The condition is widespread in Cavalier King Charles spaniels and other breeds with “bubble heads”.

Given this diagnosis, I knew Dexter needed the best nutrition and supplements to keep him in the best health possible. I got help from Dr. Judy Morgan, who is a Certified Veterinary Food Therapist through the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Morgan was developing pet food webinars for the public, and they were just what I needed to get the ball rolling. I was excited to finally have the tools to create a nutritionally balanced diet for my dog, and intrigued by Dr. Morgan's use of TCVM in preparing meals. I wanted to learn more, so I could customize Dexter’s meals to meet his health needs and personality, so I set up a phone consultation to discuss his treatment plan.

Dr. Morgan told me that Dexter is an Earth dog. In TCM and TCVM, the five element theory forms the framework for understanding and treating the body. The five elements are Wood, Fire, Earth,

70

animal wellness

By Tonya Wilhelm

Metal and Water. They are all aspects of Qi (life force energy, or chi) and relate to how we are all connected with each other and the earth we live on. We are all represented by a particular element depending on our characteristics, personality and health.

Working from a knowledge of Dexter’s medical condition, which leads to a build-up of spinal fluid, and the fact that he’s an Earth dog, Dr. Morgan recommended a treatment plan that used foods to drain his Damp, move his Qi, and resolve stagnation for overall health. Foods that offer all three of these properties include beef, chicken, garlic, ginger, heart, liver, steel cut oats, parsley, pumpkin, rabbit, radishes, brown rice, shrimp, squash and sweet potatoes. When I was preparing Dexter’s meals, I made sure they included a lot of these ingredients. In the winter months, I chose the foods that were also warming – chicken, garlic, ginger, oats, pumpkin, shrimp, squash and sweet potatoes.

The results were nothing less than miraculous! Dexter returned to his playful, active and mischievous self, and has been feeling great ever since. I have even been able to reduce his pain meds.

Dexter’s TCVM-based diet has been one of the best add-ons to his overall treatment plan, and has yielded the biggest leap forward in his well-being.

After seeing how food can affect a dog's health and behavior, I started using food therapy with my own clients (I’m a dog trainer). When a dog is out of balance emotionally, food can be used to help rebalance his emotional and mental health. In fact, food therapy has been one of my favorite additions to my training program. Food really is the foundation of life.

animal wellness

71

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

Shirley Scott Pet Psychic & Clairvoyant Imnaha, OR USA Phone: (541) 577-3051 Email: sscott@shirley-scott.com Website: www.shirley-scott.com

72

animal wellness

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

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

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

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

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

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION

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

PetMassage, Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Toll Free: (800) 779-1001 Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.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 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

Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide

1-866-764-1212

animal wellness

73

URINARY

INCONTINENCE – it’s MORE than just a NUISANCE D gs Cats

By Janice Huntingford, DVM

re you finding spots or puddles of urine on your floors? Don’t just assume your companion has forgotten his housetraining. It could be urinary incontinence, which can range from a little leakage when the animal is sleeping, to a large puddle on the floor on the way outside. Dogs and cats with urinary incontinence often lick their genitalia and have irritated, red or raw skin from urine scalding. Unlike marking behavior or loss of housetraining, urinary incontinence is an unconscious act; in other words, the animal is unaware of what is happening.

Many times, you’ll find his bed or other areas where he sleeps wet and contaminated with urine.

74

animal wellness

Incontinence can have a number of causes. Here are the most common ones:

1

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

If your animal has a bladder infection, he may not be able to control when and where urination occurs. The infection irritates the bladder and causes what is called “urge incontinence”. The urge to go is so strong that the animal has trouble controlling it and may not get outside or to the litter box in time. Urge incontinence is triggered by bladder spasms caused by the infection. The animal usually realizes he has to urinate, but the urge is so strong he can’t control it. Treating the infection eliminates this form of incontinence.

HORMONAL IMBALANCE OR DEFICIENCY

2

Hormonal incontinence occurs in dogs of both sexes, and occasionally female cats, but is most common in older spayed female dogs. It’s the most common type of incontinence seen in dogs. They urinate normally when they are awake, but leak urine when they sleep. It can occur months to years after neutering surgery.

3

BLADDER STONES

If a dog or cat has bladder stones, it can appear as if he is incontinent when he actually has a partial blockage of the urethra ( the bladder outflow tract). The bladder can get so large that the pressure causes urination to occur around the blockage. A very large bladder can be palpated on physical examination. Urinary obstructions like this can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated.

NEUROLOGICAL PROBLEMS (disc prolapses)

If a dog or cat has a disc problem in the lower back that’s interfering with the nerves to the bladder, it can cause the bladder to lose tone, producing a consistent leakage of urine.

A tumor or lesion in the brain could cause this as well. Generally, with a disc prolapse, there are other neurological signs such as paralysis or muscle weakness in addition to incontinence.

5

GET A

FREE COPY Natural Nutrition Healthy Lifestyle

Integrative Health Care Positive Training ONLY!

PROSTATE PROBLEMS

Older male dogs can suffer from enlarged prostates or prostate cancers. If the dog is an intact older male, hormones can cause the prostate to enlarge and press on the urethra.

This acts just like an obstruction and prevents urination. The dog frequently drips small amounts of bloody urine. Prostate cancer can have similar symptoms but also affects the spine, so he may have difficulty ambulating as well.

WEAK BLADDER SPHINCTER

As dogs and cats age, they develop weak muscles. This includes the muscles of the bladder sphincter, which keeps the urine in the bladder. When the animal has a full bladder, it presses on the weakened sphincter and results in incontinence.

Continued on page 76.

ORDER YOUR FREE COPY ONLINE AnimalWellnessMagazine.com/free-issue animal wellness

75

Continued from page 75.

CONGENITAL PROBLEMS

Incontinence in young dogs and cats often arises from a congenital problem or birth defect. The most common problem is an ectopic ureter. The ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. If this tube is abnormally connected to the vagina or urethra, the urine will constantly leak out instead of filling the bladder. This condition is most common in female dogs. Breeds most often affected are the Siberian husky, poodle, Labrador retriever, collie, Corgi and fox terrier.

Surgery is needed to correct this problem.

OTHER CAUSES

8

Intermittent incontinence has been seen in cats of both sexes who are affected by the leukemia virus. Senior dogs and cats, meanwhile, can suffer from senility, which may lead to incontinence.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT A proper diagnosis of your dog or cat’s urinary incontinence is very important, since the treatment will differ according to the cause. Diagnosis usually consists of a medical history and physical exam, urinalysis, urine culture, bloodwork, x-rays and possibly ultrasound.

F or true undiagnosed incontinence or hormonal incontinence, several different Chinese herbal remedies can be used. One I have been impressed with for young dogs with urinary incontinence is Suo Quan Wan (Restrict the Fountain Pill). With all Chinese herbals, it is important to work with a veterinarian who can diagnose the TCM pattern and then prescribe the herbs appropriately.

Once the diagnosis is established, treatment can begin. Surgery may be recommended depending on the condition (for example, bladder stones). If an infection is present, antibiotics may be dispensed. If no specific diagnosis is found, incontinence drugs such as estrogen or phenylpropanolamine may be prescribed.

It is not unusual for a young dog diagnosed with hormonal incontinence to be able to gradually stop these herbs after taking them for a few months.

If the dog or cat has undiagnosed, hormonal or neurological incontinence, holistic treatments may be effective.

• There’s a theory that incontinent dogs leak urine due to an injury in the lumbosacral area. It’s thought this injury may arise from excessive stretching when the dog is on her back for a spay surgery, or from excessive exercise.

Chiropractic adjustments, particularly to the sacrum, can restore the spine to its natural alignment. and relieve pressure on the nerves so they function more efficiently, thereby stopping the incontinence.

Sometimes, only one treatment eliminates the problem, but three to five treatments are more commonly needed.

Acupuncture also stimulates the nerves to restore normal function; again, three to five treatments are generally effective, particularly if combined with herbal remedies.

• If the animal has recurrent urinary tract infections, herbals can help. Combinations of stoneroot, marshmallow, Echinacea and dandelion can eliminate infections.

76

animal wellness

EDITOR’S NOTE

HOLISTIC THERAPIES

As you can see, urinary incontinence is more than just an inconvenience. Because it has so many different causes, some more serious than others, it’s important to have your dog or cat examined by a vet. A successful resolution to the problem depends on the right diagnosis and treatment.

HELP FOR URINARY INFECTIONS

Urinary tract, bladder and kidney infections, which can cause incontinence, are common in dogs and cats.

Conventional treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics.

“Veterinarians realize that antibiotic treatment is not enough,” says Rob Kovler of Animal Nutrition Products.

“UroMAXX liquid was formulated to assist vets with the difficult task of treating these infections in both cats and dogs. It’s used in conjunction with antibiotics and continued afterwards.” The product helps with incontinence, discourages oxalate crystal formation and strengthens the urinary tract. Made in the US, its active ingredients include cranberry juice extract, glucosamine, vitamin C, dandelion, L-methionine, cornsilk powder, nettle and uva ursi (anpvet.com/uromaxx.html).

animal wellness

77

CANDLE

SAFETY

D gs Cats

FOR YOUR

companion It involves more than keeping burning candles out of his reach.

What they’re made of is also of paramount importance.

C 78

animal wellness

By Claudia Bensimoun with Ann Brightman

andles are favorite home décor items. They come in a huge array of colors, shapes and sizes and are often used to grace dining room tables, mantelpieces and windowsills during the holiday season and other special times of the year. A lit candle has a mellow, magical effect, but it can rapidly become a serious danger if you’re not careful, especially if you have an active, curious dog or cat in the house.

LOCATION, LOCATION

Ideally, burning candles should never be left unattended, whether you have animals or not. “They present an obvious fire hazard around rambunctious dogs, and even moreso around cats who like to jump up on furniture,” says holistic veterinarian Dr. Marcie Fallek. Candles should always be extinguished when you leave the room, or else moved to another location where you can keep an eye on them. If you’re busy with guests or meal preparation, however, it’s not always easy to follow this rule to the letter. In that case, you need to take extra precautions.

“Candles should be placed well out of reach of animals,” says Dr. Fallek. Keep them off coffee tables and low windowsills.

If you have dogs, a shelf, high table or mantelpiece should do

it. Just be sure not to place the candle on or near a runner or dangling decoration that could be pulled down by a playful pooch. With cats, you need to be more creative, since kitties can access just about any surface, no matter how high it is. Be very cautious when approaching ceiling height with candles.

One woman found that the top of her china cabinet was the only place in the house her cat couldn’t reach – but because it was so high, it was impossible to burn candles up there without blackening the ceiling and greatly increasing the risk of fire.

With a cat, you may simply have to ramp up the supervision, perhaps by assigning a family member to keep an eye on her while you’re busy, or else keeping her out of the room when candles are burning.

“Placing the candle and its holder in a bowl of water can help obviate danger if it is inadvertently knocked down,” says Dr. Fallek. Be sure the bowl is wide enough to accommodate the full length of the candle, plus its flame, if it gets toppled over.

It’s also a good idea to use thick pillar candles with wide bases – they’re less likely to fall over than tall, thin candles.

WHAT ARE YOUR CANDLES MADE OF?

When a candle is burning, it draws on the wax and wick to stay alight. But what is it giving off as it burns? Depending on what the candle and its wick are made of, it could be emitting toxins into your home environment, and that’s bad for your dog or cat as well as for you.

“Animals are more sensitive in general to poisons, partly due to their size and also to their metabolism,” Dr. Fallek says.

“Conventional candles contain many toxins that may pose a risk to your animal. These dangerous chemicals are likely or known carcinogens, neurotoxins and reproductive toxins. We and our animals inhale these toxins into our lungs, and from there they go directly into the bloodstream.

“Unfortunately,” Dr. Fallek adds, “candle industries are not regulated and don't have to label their ingredients.” If the candles you want to buy don’t label their ingredients, ask the seller or manufacturer for more information. If they can’t or won’t answer your question, don’t buy the candles.

Continued on page 80.

animal wellness

79

GO FLAMELESS

A safe alternative to wax candles is electric or flameless candles. These are more aesthetically attractive than they used to be, and some are even designed to flicker like real flames. They’re a good option for any household with animals or children, plus there’s no spilled wax to clean up afterwards.

If you regularly burn candles, make sure your home is properly outfitted with working smoke detectors.

Continued from page 79.

You can protect your animal and human family by being aware of the following candle ingredients and avoiding them wherever possible.

 PARAFFIN: Most candles are paraffin, a wax made from petroleum waste that releases carcinogens when burned.

 LEAD: Some wicks have a metal core, which may contain lead. It is entirely possible that the lead released into the air will be above the EPA threshold; even low doses can harm the central nervous system.

 BENZENE: This known carcinogen is emitted from the soot of some candles.

 ACROLEIN, ACETALDEHYDE AND FORMALDEHYDE: These dangerous chemicals can also reduce the air quality in your home.

 TOLUENE: Found in candle soot, it’s known to affect the central nervous system.

 ARTIFICIAL COLORS AND SCENTS: These can cause allergies and respiratory problems.

When shopping for candles, look for products made in the US or Canada from beeswax or natural soy or vegetable-based wax, that contain lead-free 100% unbleached cotton wicks. These candles burn cleanly and safely – in fact, beeswax candles can actually help purify the air! They’ll be more expensive than regular paraffin candles, but it’s worth it. Opt for unscented candles, unless pure

80

animal wellness

essential oils have been used (even then, use these fragrances with caution around cats). If you want colored candles, check that non-toxic vegetable-based dyes were used. Again, you may have to ask questions and do some homework, but as a rule, makers of quality, non-toxic candles are happy to share what their candles are made of and how they’ve been produced.

By choosing the right products when shopping for candles, making sure they’re strategically situated when you bring them home, and keeping a watchful eye on them and your furry friends, you can help ensure everyone’s health and safety.

SOCIAL MEDIA Join the conversation

Calling all sports fans!

Is your pet a sports fan? Send us a photo of your pet's team spirit to be featured!

Tweet us

Let us know your thoughts on this issue with #AWthoughts and you could win!

WIN 1 Year

Subscription & Cookbook*

*open to residents of Canada and the U.S.A only. /AnimalWellnessMagazine

@AW_magazine

socialmedia@redstonemediagroup.com

@AW_Magazine animal wellness

81

BOOK REVIEWS TITLE: The Black Dogs Project PHOTOGRAPHER: Fred Levy “Black dog syndrome” is a real phenomenon, and refers to the difficulty shelters and rescues have adopting out black dogs.

Whether people find black dogs more intimidating or less attractive than other canines is unclear, but photographer Fred Levy has been working to change these misperceptions with his Tumblr blog, the Black Dogs Project.

Now, a collection of Levy’s breath-taking photos have been gathered together in a book of the same name. The Black Dogs Project showcases more than 50 gorgeous canines and their stories – from Denver, the therapy dog who visited first responders at the Boston Marathon bombings, to Booker, a three-legged dog who wouldn’t let either his color or his disability slow him down.

A portion of the royalties from The Black Dogs Project is donated to Labrador and Friends Dog Rescue Group.

Publisher: Race Point Publishing

TITLE: My Old Dog AUTHOR: Laura T. Coffey When actor George Clooney adopted a dog, he chose a cocker spaniel named Einstein, a senior with a thyroid condition and dry eyes. “Age doesn’t matter,” George says of his four-legged friend.

This is just one of many stories in My Old Dog – Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts, written by author and journalist Laura T. Coffey, and with a wealth of beautiful photographs by Lori Fusaro.

The book celebrates the many benefits of adopting an older dog. You’ll meet Marnie, a Shih tzu who has posed for selfies with Betty White and other celebrities; Remy, a soulful elder adopted by a group of nuns; and Bretagne, the last known search dog from 9/11’s Ground Zero.

If you’ve been hesitant to adopt an older dog because he might not live as long as you’d like, this book will change your mind.

Publisher: New World Library

82

animal wellness

TITLE: Tails of Triumph AUTHOR: Terri Steuben It’s been ten years since Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, but the aftereffects can still be seen and felt throughout the area.

Many of those aftereffects involve the animals whose lives were turned upside down by the storm.

In the wake of the disaster, animal communicator Terri Steuben helped a team from the HSUS locate and rescue displaced and stranded animals. She kept a journal of her experiences, now available as a book called Tails of Triumph, a moving testimony of courage and survival. There’s the dog that roamed the streets for food and took mouthfuls back to a canine friend who couldn’t leave their house. Or the cat that broke into a kitchen cupboard and survived on toaster pastries until being found. Or the guard dog who didn’t want to leave his post, even though his home was destroyed.

This book is a riveting read, and one that will leave you with a new appreciation of the loyalty, love and strength that can arise in both people and animals following catastrophe.

Publisher: McCoury Publishing

TITLE: Dog Medicine AUTHOR: Julie Barton Julie Barton was a young college graduate living in Manhattan when she was floored by a crushing depression that left her unable to function. Her mother took her back home to Ohio, where she saw several psychiatrists and therapists, but nothing seemed to help. That is, until she adopted a golden retriever puppy named Bunker.

Dog Medicine is Barton’s heartfelt story of how Bunker helped her recover with his unconditional love, companionship and loyalty. Beautifully written with a sincere depth of emotion, she takes the reader through her slow recovery, describing how Bunker’s presence and comfort helped her back on her feet. Their roles are later reversed when Bunker is diagnosed with incapacitating hip dysplasia. Determined to save her friend, Barton and her friends raise the money to pay for the surgery that would correct his disability.

This book is hard to put down, and proof that even the most difficult challenges can be overcome, especially when you have the help and support of your best friend.

Publisher: Think Piece Publishing

animal wellness

83

MARKETPLACE

84

animal wellness

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

E-Training for Dogs

100% ONLINE COURSES! Certification Provided in Some Programs Many More Courses Available!

Learn from the comfort of your own home

Online courses for the dog owner, trainer, breeder and enthusiast.

•Dog training • Holistic methods & remedies •Canine massage •Service dog • Performance dog •Pet loss counsellor conditioning & rehabilitation •Fitness & nutrition

www.E-TrainingForDogs.com

970-231-9965

ADVERTISE DISTRIBUTE MAGAZINES SUBMIT STORIES 1-866-764-1212 AnimalWellnessMagazine.com animal wellness

85

MARKETPLACE

ADVERTISE in the #1 Animal Health & Wellness Magazine DISTRIBUTE MAGAZINES • SUBMIT STORIES

1-866-764-1212 86

animal wellness

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

CLASSIFIEDS

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

EVENTS

Natural Product Retailers 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

6th Annual Holiday Pet Festival December 5, 2015 – Scottsdale, AZ

North American Vet Conference January 16-20, 2016 – Orlando, FL

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

Join us for an exciting day of interactive activities, shopping, demonstrations, exhibitions and animals galore. Don't miss out on all the fun!

The North American Veterinary Conference (NAVC) is a non-profit organization that provides world-class continuing education to all members of the veterinary healthcare team.

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

Held each January in Orlando, Florida, the NAVC Conference welcomes over 15,000 attendees from over 70 countries.

Lehigh Valley Pet Expo January 29-31, 2016 – Allentown, PA

We offer 50 intensive Hands-on Laboratories, over 350 speakers, dozens of different daily lecture tracks, the largest meeting of exotics practitioners in the world and the largest exhibit halls in the industry.

This pet expo continues to be one of the premier shows in the northeast and will be a great success for vendors and a great weekend for attendees.

Over 200 animals from exhibiting animal rescue organizations found loving homes at last year's event!

You can expect to enjoy on stage entertainment, pet photos with Santa, a huge silent auction as well as many pet contests. You will also find free and discounted pet vaccinations and so much more!

For more information: info@holidaypetfestival.com www.holidaypetfestival.com Holiday Pet Expo 2015 December 12-13, 2015 – Los Angeles, CA Fabulous Prize Giveaways & Fun for both the Two-Legged AND Four-Legged!

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!

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.holidaypetexpo.com

This is an excellent opportunity to socialize and network with other industry professionals at our evening entertainment programs.

For more information: (800) 756.3446 info@navc.com www.navc.com 15th Annual World of Pets Expo January 29-31, 2016 - Timonium, MD This Expo features something for everyone!

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

Many activities and demonstrations will be directed toward children and the Expo is an exciting event for the entire family.

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

Leashed pets are Welcome!

For more information: (631) 423-0620 www.familypetshows.com Edmonton Pet Expo January 30-31, 2016 – Edmonton, AB Explore the product and service options available to owners and pets and give back to your community by supporting one of the local animal-focused charitable organizations, as well, learn more about the work that they do for animals and the community. You will find great activities for kids and as always, you can expect to find information, resources, and great tips on how to be a responsible pet owner from industry experts at the Edmonton Pet Expo!

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

animal wellness

87

TAIL END

Playing poker with

Kringle

By A. D. Major

For over a century, paintings of dogs playing poker have hung in pool halls, man caves and other places of honor. As it turns out, artist C.M. Coolidge couldn’t have chosen a better species for a fictional game of Texas Hold’em. I am starting to learn that dogs, especially my golden retriever Kringle, are the true poker stars of the animal kingdom. And it’s one of poker’s oldest strategies that gives Kringle the edge. In poker, you never play your hand.

You play the man or woman across from you.

Kringle is very much a family member, and totally engrained in our everyday lives. Early on, I started to notice her ability to read our minds, so to speak. Research has proven that dogs are accomplished people readers, and that’s what poker is all about.

If I was invited to sit in for a few hands with Kringle, and her friends Trent, Liam, Ralphie and Steele, I’d be up against some worthy adversaries. Working in my favor would be the fact that dogs have the world’s worst poker faces. Any dog lover will swear they can spot their dog’s “tells” when they come home and find their canine trying to bluff his way out of a compromising situation. But don’t expect the dog to throw in his hand just yet.

Behind that angelic face sits the mind of a card shark. Kringle is constantly studying me, and reacting to my unique “tells”. Your dog is too, and no other animal can read your body language and interpret social cues as deftly as your faithful canine. Want to try and bluff with a pair of nines? Be careful, because research also shows dogs can distinguish between certain facial expressions.

So maintain a blank expression and wear sunglasses to disguise your smiling eyes just in case you manage to fill in that straight.

Do you stack your poker chips in a certain way when you’re nervous? Dogs are pretty good at predicting actions based on familiar patterns of behavior. Need proof? Does prepping for doggie bath time usually begin with a game of hide and seek?

If you break them down, poker tells are nothing more than

88

animal wellness

unconscious habits and rituals. Now transfer that sense of awareness to reading your betting patterns and you would be better off folding.

Anticipation is an important part of poker, but is it an exclusively human characteristic? Watch dogs involved in competitive agility and you’ll get the answer. After only eight agility classes, Kringle started to anticipate the next obstacle in ever-changing course layouts. Was she cheating by looking at my cards? Not quite, but I did tip my hand through body positioning and the direction I was facing.

Any dog has the capacity to be a poker star. Put in the time and energy with your dog and he’ll become more emotionally in synch with you. And pay more attention to how your dog interprets and interacts with the world. I guarantee you’ll be surprised at what he can teach you about the game of poker.

feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

TOP 12

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

ARE YOU IMMUNE CHALLENGED?

for a healthier, happier kitty

Don’t worry – you don’t have to give up your cat! 5 easy ways to minimize your risk of catching an infection from Fluffy

NAUGHTY

KITTY! Use positive reinforcement to get a “bad” cat back on her best behavior

VENUS

THE “TWO-FACED” CAT

This rare feline attracts double takes (no pun intended!) wherever she goes. Now world-famous, she’s doing her part to promote animal rescue.

animal wellness

89

Top New Year’s Tweet us your tip s for the New Year @Fe lineWellness

resolutions

FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER KITTY

By Sally E. Bahner

Most of us make a few New Year’s resolutions – exercise more, lose weight, improve our eating habits. While our cats couldn’t care less if it’s a new year or not, we can also make a few resolutions for them, to help ensure their health and safety and enhance our relationship with them.

1

4 2 6

If it’s been a while since your kitty has had a “once-over” at the veterinarian, make an appointment. Be sure to write down any questions you may have. If she’s over the age of seven, ask for a full blood panel and urinalysis.

Vaccinations are a hot-button topic. Protocols have changed over the years and your cat’s lifestyle is a big factor in determining which vaccinations she needs. For example, an inside-only cat or one that has health problems should be minimally vaccinated, if at all. As your vet about titers instead of annual boosters.

3

Read the labels on the cat foods you buy and investigate the ingredients. Is this the best nutrition you can provide?

Consider eliminating or reducing low-end kibble – it’s a big cause of obesity, diabetes, and urinary problems.

Feed a variety of high quality whole meat-based foods to prevent finickiness and to avoid any deficiencies.

90

feline wellness

Make daily time for play. Playing keeps your cat physically fit and mentally stimulated, redirects her energy in a constructive way, and helps prevent obesity. A high-energy kitty can benefit from clicker training and even agility. Regular daytime play can help your cat sleep through the night.

5

Groom your cat for 15 minutes once or twice a week. It’s an opportunity to evaluate her overall health, and helps reduce hairballs and matting. Make it a positive experience by offering treats and lots of praise.

Regular grooming also reduces your own stress levels and helps strengthen your bond with your cat.

If you have an outside cat, consider the hazards of letting her wander. Coyotes can be found in all parts of the country these days, even in relatively urban areas. Even if there’s no hostile wildlife to contend with, there’s traffic. If you have an indoor cat, think of how you can improve her environment. In both cases, an outdoor enclosure (“catio”) and/or leash training may be part of the solution.

1

Learn to safely clip your cat’s claws instead of risking scratches or snags, or resorting to declawing, an inhumane procedure that may cause behavior problems and arthritis. If your cat won’t let you trim her claws, ask for help from your veterinarian.

8

7

Look into obtaining health insurance. Veterinary expenses for major illnesses or accidents can eat a big hole in even the most carefully maintained budget. Having health insurance for your cat may spell the different between treatment and euthanasia.

Make sure your cat has ID. Microchipping is a quick and easy way to trace a lost kitty. All the care in the world doesn’t prevent accidental escapes, and a chip will help ensure her safe return.

10

Grow some catnip or cat grass in a pot on the windowsill. Cats like to nibble on greenery, and it may save your houseplants.

Rub dried catnip onto scratching posts to encourage their use.

11

Contribute in some way to an animal welfare organization or your local shelter. Volunteer your time. Make a donation. Sign up to feed a feral colony. Or better yet, adopt a kitten or cat that needs a loving home. Do I dare say two are better than one?

Continue to advance your education on cat care, through magazines like Animal Wellness, or with a book on the subject.

You’ll be surprised at what you can learn. A couple of good book choices are Your Cat by veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins, and The Complete Guide to Holistic Cat Care by Celeste Yarnall and veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve. Cat Sense by John Bradshaw offers some wonderful insight into cats, their interaction with us and with each other. If your cat has a chronic disease, it’s a good idea to learn all you can from reliable sources so you can have knowledgeable conversations with your veterinarian.

9 12

Our cats give us so much unconditional love. We can return that love by resolving to pay a little more attention to their welfare. Here’s hoping the New Year finds you snuggled up with a healthy, happy feline!

feline wellness

91

If you have a weakened immune system, you have a higher chance of contracting infections from your cat, but that doesn’t mean you have to get rid of him! Here are 5 easy ways to minimize your risk.

Living with cats when you’re

By Ingrid King

IMMUNOCOMPROMISED Millions of Americans have conditions that compromise their immune systems. They include diabetes, kidney failure, HIV, autoimmune disease, organ transplants and cancer. An immunocompromised person’s immune system is weakened either by the disease, or by the drugs used to treat it. As a result, they have less ability to fight off opportunistic infections that would normally not affect healthy people.

Some of these infections can be transmitted from cats to humans, and are called zoonoses. The most common are intestinal infections caused by salmonella and Campylobacter or Cryptospiridium bacteria; cat scratch disease, from the Bartonella bacteria; and toxoplasmosis, caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. Two fungal diseases, dermatomycosis (also called ringworm) and sporotrichosis, are also zoonotic and may cause skin infections in humans. Cat bites and scratches also pose a risk of infection.

Does this mean you can’t have a cat if you’re immunocompromised? Not at all! By following these simple, common sense guidelines, you can minimize your risk of contracting infection without having to give up your feline family members.

92

feline wellness

SIMPLE PRECAUTIONS 1. Keep your cat indoors. This minimizes his risk of catching diseases from birds, mice or other animals.

2. Practice safe food handling when feeding your cat. Whether your feed your cat a raw or packaged diet, wash off all surfaces and utensils that touch the food. Don’t prepare any other food on the same surface until it has been thoroughly cleaned. Wash your hands with soap and warm water after handling any cat food.

3. Clean the litter box with care. Your cat’s litter box should be scooped daily. If at all possible, have someone else perform this task. If that's not an option, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.

Bernadette DeLamar, a cancer survivor, shares her home with two cats. “I live alone, so I had to develop strategies to deal with the daily necessities of

cat care while I was going through chemotherapy,” she says.

Bernadette had a good friend stop by once a week to clean out the litter boxes. “In between her visits, I donned a mask and rubber gloves and scooped the boxes myself.”

4. Avoid bites and scratches. Cat bites present a high risk for infection, even in healthy individuals. Luckily, most cats will only bite under extreme circumstances. Immunocompromised people should never try to break up a cat fight, or handle an injured or frightened cat.

Your cat’s claws should be kept trimmed to avoid getting scratched. Do not declaw him! Not only is it inhumane, but cats who no longer have their claws will turn to biting instead if they feel a need to defend themselves.

“Human health authorities like the CDC and US Public Health Services don’t even mention declawing in their comprehensive document of living with companion animals after having an organ transplant,” says Jennifer Conrad, a California veterinarian and founder of The Paw Project, which aims to abolish the practice of declaw surgery.

Kate Benjamin has 11 cats. “As a breast cancer survivor now suffering from lymphedema in my right arm and hand, I find myself being hyper-vigilant about any cat scratches in the affected area,” she says. Because Kate’s immune system is compromised as a result of the lymphedema, any puncture wounds pose a serious threat of infection. “I’m careful to keep the cats’ nails trimmed, and if I do get scratched, I make sure to thoroughly clean the wound and seek medical care if there is any sign of infection.”

WHEN CLEANING OUT THE LITTER BOX, WEAR DISPOSABLE GLOVES AND WASH YOUR HANDS WITH SOAP AND WARM WATER AFTERWARDS. Bernadette agrees, saying that her own two cats were her greatest solace during cancer treatment. She can’t imagine what it would have been like going through the experience without them. “They became little nursing assistants during the long months my immune system was compromised,” she says. “When I was feeling poorly and restless in bed at night, the older cat would climb up and rest his paws on my shoulder, tuck his nose under my chin, and purr until I calmed down. The younger one would come up and lean on my pillow. They had never done these things before!”

Hopefully, you won’t ever be diagnosed with a condition that compromises your immune system. But if you are, know that by taking a few precautions against zoonoses, you can keep your feline friend by your side!

5. Work in partnership with your veterinarian. Regular veterinary exams will ensure your cat stays in good health.

Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Colleran especially recommends that immunocompromised clients have their cats checked regularly for parasites.

Dr. Colleran adds that the most important message for immunocompromised people is to not give up their kitties. As a cancer survivor herself, she should know. “I didn't get rid of mine, and my oncologist didn’t advise it either. He and I both knew that having something to bring joy to your life, give you purpose and meaning, and that needs to be nurtured, helps you tolerate awful symptoms, and aids with the recovery process.” feline wellness

93

Is your kitty being

Y ?

T H G U NA Don’t punish her! Positive reinforcement is the best way to coax her back to good behavior.

By Nadia Ali

Biting, scratching or hissing – is your kitty misbehaving? As a cat parent, you love her like a child. So what action do you take?

Say no TV for a week? Deny access to digital devices? Ground her? Well, no. But what do you do?

Not using the litter box? Instead of getting angry or frustrated, try to look at the situation more from your cat’s perspective.

“The first step to training your cat is to understand him,” advises the ASPCA.

Cats aren’t humans, so no amount of talking, persuasion or scolding will make any difference to a kitty who’s acting out.

Resorting to punishments like locking her in the bathroom makes no sense, and doesn’t present itself as a lesson on how to be “good” next time round. The squirt bottle can also do more harm than good. “Squirting your cat can have varying effects,” according to Cat Behavior Associates. “It will make your cat afraid of you, frustrate him or teach him to misbehave when you are not around, to avoid being squirted.”

Start by looking at the unwanted behavior and asking yourself the following questions:

BE POSITIVE, NOT PUNISHING “My approach to training is based on positive reinforcement,” writes feline behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett in her book Think Like a Cat. “If I want my cat to stop doing something, I direct him to something better.”

Pam isn’t alone in her approach. “You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar,” says the HSUS. “That's the theory behind positive reinforcement.”

What do you want your cat to stop doing? Using your best couch as a scratching post? Jumping up on the kitchen counter?

94

feline wellness

1 Why is she doing this?

2 What alternative can I offer?

3 How can I best motivate my cat to use the alternative?

4 How can I spoil her silly for choosing the alternative?

FROM SOFA TO SCRATCHING POST

Using this model, let’s look at a simple example. Say your cat is sharpening her claws on your good sofa. How do you go about tackling this problem?

1 2

I nstead of shouting at her to stop, ask yourself: “Why is she doing this?” The answer: “Because she likes to stretch her legs and toes, and needs a way to keep her claws in good condition.”

Now, think of an alternative to the sofa as a way for her to satisfy this need – i.e. a scratching post. Buy or make one that is similar in height and texture to the sofa, and that’s topple-proof.

3

ext, motivate Kitty to use it. Put catnip, toys or treats N on it to lure her over – anything to get her attention.

Prevent her from drifting back to the sofa by covering it, thereby denying access.

4

hen you hear her use the scratching post, immediately W give her treats, praise and/or affection – everything you’ve got to encourage her to keep using your alternative. “Timing is everything in training your cat,” says the HSUS. “Cats have short attention spans, so the reward must come immediately (within seconds) of the behavior or he may not know what it's for.”

This and other behavioral problems (see sidebar below for another example) are best solved with a TLC approach, a lot of patience, and some understanding of the feline perspective. Using a positive reward-based approach rather than punishment will also create a stronger and more loving bond between you. Remember, she’s not a toddler or a teenager – she won’t respond to any human reasoning you may try to offer up, be it an argument, lecture, or creative PowerPoint presentation!

Unwanted wakeup calls

This example comes from my own experience. My daughter complains that our cat, Cici, wakes her up in the middle of the night by meowing by her head on the pillow – seemingly for no reason. My daughter responds by interacting with her, whether it’s to play, hold or feed her. This means Cici is rewarded by attention for her unwanted behavior. In other words, my daughter has inadvertently taught Cici to continue waking her up.

When I asked my daughter if she ever gets mad with Cici, she said: “No, she is an old cat and probably just wants the attention.” However, this situation could easily take a turn for the worse if my daughter ever reacted by shouting, throwing something at Cici, or even kicking her off the bed. Suddenly, fear, stress and mistrust would become big issues.

Being bothered by a cat in the middle of the night is a problem shared by many cat parents, and one that is not so easily resolved. The main reason it’s difficult is because you have to literally ignore your cat in order to achieve positive reinforcement. This sounds contrary, but cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy explains by suggesting you play with your cat before bedtime, as a pre-sleep routine.

With this routine in place, he says he can almost guarantee success – but only if you totally ignore your cat’s nightly disturbances for the next ten to 14 days. In time, your cat will realize that the positive reinforcement comes from pre-bed playtime, not by waking you up in the middle of the night. feline wellness

95

96

feline wellness

By Ann Brightman

V E N U S

…she was “born this way”!

Her bi-colored face attracts attention wherever she goes.

Now , this laid-back kitty with the loving personality is helping to promote animal rescue.

world-famous

When they first see a photo of Venus, many people assume the image has been Photoshopped, or that someone has dyed half her face black. They’re wrong on both counts. This very unusual kitty was “born this way”, to borrow a phrase from the popular song

by Lady Gaga.

“There are several theories behind her appearance,” says her person, Christina. “She could be what is referred to as a ‘chimera’, which would mean she absorbed the DNA of a fraternal twin zygote that didn't survive.” Another explanation is that her coloring is just a very unique example of X-inactivation, a phenomenon found in tortoiseshell and calico cats. The black and orange alleles (alternative forms of the same gene) of a fur coloration gene reside on the X chromosome; for any given patch of fur, the inactivation of an X chromosome that carries one gene results in the fur color of the other, active gene. Either way, her unique looks have resulted in articles in both National Geographic and Smithsonian Magazine.

To add to her striking appearance, Venus also has heterochromia – two different-colored eyes. “One thing the scientists and geneticists seem to agree on is that her blue eye is the biggest mystery,” says Christina. “Normally, the only cats with blue eyes have a lot of white fur or are completely white, but Venus doesn’t have enough white in her coat to explain this. She is tortoiseshell throughout except for the way her face is evenly divided, and a very small patch of white fur on her chest.”

Continued on page 98.

Venus got her name because of her sweet, loving and laid-back personality.

“One thing the scientists and geneticists seem to agree on is that her blue eye is the biggest mystery.”

Venus chills with her “sibling” Ginger.

feline wellness

97

Continued from page 97.

Venus started her life as a stray, born six years ago on a dairy farm in North Carolina to a tortoiseshell mother – the identity and coloration of the father is unknown.

“I first saw pictures of her, along with her siblings, on a friend's Facebook page; the friend casually posted the photos as just some cute kittens on a farm. When I noticed her two different-colored eyes.

I knew she was something very unique and special.” Although Christina and her family live in Florida, she called her friend and made arrangements to adopt the kitten after a vet check. A few days later, her husband flew up to North Carolina to get the kitten.

Venus bonded with Christina from the moment she arrived home. For those who are wondering why she was named Venus, it’s because of her loving personality and beauty. “She is very easygoing, sweet and loyal, with a laid back disposition. She is also super-easy to photograph. It's almost like she knows

“I chose to embrace the experience in the hopes I could use her popularity to bring awareness to animal rescue.”

Christina says it’s almost as if Venus knows how to pose for photos, and it’s clear from these images that she loves having her picture taken!

Follow Venus on Instagram @venustw ofacecat it's photo shoot time when I bring out props to go with a certain holiday; she just plops down, sometimes in the perfect place, as if she knows what to do!”

Christina had no initial plans to bring Venus to social media. Working a 60hour week at the time, she simply had no time for it. “The occasional personal Facebook post of my kids and family was as much involvement as I had with social media. I didn't even know what Reddit was, yet that’s where it all started after Venus’s picture was posted to the site in August 2012 by a teenaged girl. The picture was viewed over a million times in less than 24 hours, and ‘Venus went viral’ from there.”

When Christina learned how popular Venus had become online, and in such a short period, she decided to learn more about social media. “I chose to embrace the experience in the hopes I could use her popularity to bring awareness to animal rescue. I created a YouTube channel and a Facebook page, learning as I went along.”

Venus has over 700,000 Facebook fans, as well as a presence on Instagram and

98

feline wellness

Twitter, and more recently, her own website where you’ll soon be able to purchase merchandise such as a calendar, book, a Gund plush replica of Venus, and even some funky socks. The website is also raising awareness and funds for animal rescue and shelters.

The only blip in Venus’s life to date was a complete urinary blockage she suffered in the fall of 2013. “It’s extremely rare in female cats,” says Christina, adding that they almost lost Venus. “I now use odorless and tasteless cranberry drops, made especially for animals, which I add to her water dish.”

Apart from that one health issue, Venus enjoys a happy and pampered life being showered with love and admiration from her family and fans. “One of my favorite things about Venus and her fanbase is how she continually inspires people to feel okay with being ‘different’,” says Christina. “She has also reached many people with important messages about the importance of animal adoption, and how TNR (trap, neuter, return) programs can help save the lives of stray and feral cats. Last but not least, she is one of the sweetest cats I've ever had.”

feline wellness

99

100

animal wellness