ANIMAL WELLNESS
For a long, healthy life!
WELLNESS
Holiday
Is spaying and neutering
Gift Guide
HARMING our dogs?
PET FRIENDLY
DECORATING
Helping your dog through LOSS OR SEPARATION
CHIROPRACTIC
the gift that CARE –keeps on giving
Bonnie-Jill
LAFLIN
How has pet care changed in the last
25 YEARS?
A sportscaster and TV personality with a soft spot for animals
Homeopathy for cancer
Larry the Dog
Heal t hy TURKEY
TREAT RECIPES
How a famous pit bull with a lovable personality is changing breed stereotyping.
DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 Display until January 18, 2017
$6.95 USA/Canada
VOLUME 18 ISSUE 6
AnimalWellnessMagazine.com
BONUS INSIDE!
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December 2016/January 2017
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Contents nts ts December 2016/January 2017
Features
18 IS SPAYING AND NEUTERING GOOD FOR DOGS?
Recent studies indicate that spaying and neutering can negatively impact canine health. Here’s a look at the latest research -- and the alternatives to de-sexing dogs.
22 CHIROPRACTIC
38
ADJUSTMENTS ARE A GREAT GIFT FOR DOGS
Chiropractic helps the nervous system, which controls the whole body, to function properly. Adjustments have a positive impact on many health problems besides back pain.
26 STEP BY STEP PUP TRAINING
Follow these simple tips to minimize biting and jumping in your new puppy or dog.
28 HIGH DOSE VITAMIN C
This grassroots volunteer effort is bringing desperately-needed veterinary services to a tropical island off the coast of Thailand.
When injected at high doses into a person or pet, vitamin C offers some amazing healing benefits and can even help treat cancer.
58 HOMEOPATHY FOR PET
THERAPY FOR PETS – PART 2
CANCER
80 HOLIDAY TURKEY RECIPES FOR DOGS AND CATS
Share the festive season with your pet by making him these healthy low-fat turkey treats.
89 9 TIPS FOR LITTER BOX TRAINING
32 PET-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY
Homeopathy offers a gentle approach to cancer in dogs and cats. It doesn’t just treat the condition, but the patient as a whole.
Cats and kittens don’t always come litter-trained. It’s up to you to help your new friend understand where her bathroom is, and how to use it. These tips make it easier.
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a tree, greenery, candles and ornaments. Here’s how to keep your pet safe and healthy while also having a festivelooking home.
61 FIRST AID AND SAFETY QUIZ FOR DOGS
92 INTEGRATIVE CANCER CARE FOR CATS
DECORATING
38 LARRY THE DOG
This sweet, shy pit bull goes against every negative stereotype that surrounds the breed, and his global popularity is helping people change their attitudes about these dogs.
44 HOW PET CARE HAS
CHANGED IN 25 YEARS WELLNESS
From titer testing and better cancer treatment, to pet insurance and the introduction of hemp oil, pet healthcare has improved by leaps and bounds over the last quarter-century.
48 COPING WITH CANINE
SEIZURES
Discover how acupressure and ice can work together to help reduce the severity and duration of seizures in dogs.
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56 VETERINARY CARE COMES TO KOH MAK
Animal Wellness
Would you know what to do if your dog suffered a health emergency? See if you can answer these five questions correctly.
66 TIBETAN SINGING BOWL
THERAPY SOOTHES PETS
If you’ve never heard Tibetan singing bowl therapy, you’re in for a treat, and so is your dog or cat. This unique modality uses sound therapy to help heal and calm.
68 BONNIE-JILL LAFLIN This model, sportscaster and TV personality is also an active animal advocate and rescuer.
78 HELPING YOUR DOG
ADJUST TO LOSS OR SEPARATION
Whether it’s a death in the family, a child leaving home, or a divorce, your dog will notice one of his “pack” members is missing. Learn to help him deal with his grief.
Drawing on a combination of conventional and alternative treatment options can improve quality of life in cats with cancer, and help them live longer.
94 LITTER BOXES MADE EASY
Automated litter boxes make life simpler for you and your cat by minimizing cleanup.
95 FESTIVE RECIPES FOR FELINES
Give your cat something to celebrate this holiday season (or any time of year!) by cooking up these healthy goodies.
48 Columns
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Yakkity yak Rewind Warm & fuzzy To the rescue Passages Book reviews Tail end Purrfect end
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Social media Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness
Departments 8
Editorial
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Product picks
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Animal Wellness resource guide
71
Social media
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The scoop
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Marketplace
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Events calendar
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ClassiďŹ eds December 2016/January 2017
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VOLUME 18 ISSUE 6
EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Sylvia Lisi Social Media Manager: Kyle Dupont Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustration: Libby Sinden Purrfect End Illustration: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: Mandy/"mahwm" Feline Cover Image courtesy of: vvvita
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:
Mandy/"mahwm" Check out Larry The Dog looking super-cool in his stylish glasses! This suave pit bull showed up in Mandy Rebber’s life as a Christmas present five years ago. Today, he’s world famous on social media where his docile, gentle personality has made him into a beloved spokesdog for a breed that many people fear and misunderstand. Turn to page 38 to read Larry’s full story.
ON THE FELINE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:
vvvita This fluffy kitty is all ready for winter. His healthy and contented demeanor show he’s loved and well cared for. Our Feline Wellness bonus section helps you do the same for your own feline friend with articles on litter box training, integrative cancer care and healthy homemade holiday treats.
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COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chandana Banerjee Julia Cameron Todd Cooney, DVM, CVH Audi Donamor Kyle Dupont Amy Hayek, DVM, MA, CVA, CVC Jennifer Hinders Georgia A. Hubley Kathryn Jastrow Davis Tessa Kimmel Ingrid King Anabelle Lee Macri Lisa Melling, DVM, CVH Shawn Messonnier, DVM Justine O'Keefe Bill Ormston, DVM, CVC Gillian Ridgeway Tom Schell, DVM, CVCH Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Jac Smith Amy Snow Sarah Stieg, DVM, MRCVS Lisa Wagner Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Karen Jeffries Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden SUBMISSIONS: Please email all editorial material to Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at ann@redstonemediagroup.com. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in jpeg, tif or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received. You can also mail submissions to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. Please direct other correspondence to info@redstonemediagroup.com.
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 Subscription Services Manager: Brittany Tufts, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 brittany@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© 2016. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: October 2016.
Improving the lives of animals... one reader at a time.
editorial
HOLIDAY
magic
Ah,
the holiday season! There’s no question this is a busy time of year. Between shopping, baking, events, and finishing up work projects it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. But it’s one of my favorite times of year, too. At my house, where we celebrate Christmas, we always set aside a weekend for decorating. As soon as we start getting the boxes out of the storage room, the animals magically appear to “help”. I swear they love it as much as we do. With eyes as big as saucers, our cat, Katy, watches us unpack every ornament, then tears around exploring each empty box. Muffie, our Shih Poo rescue, isn’t satisfied until she sees her stocking make its appearance, and ensures it has a prominent position on the fireplace mantel. How do they remember, I wonder? How is it they get as excited as little kids as the big day approaches? I’m sure there are many theories, but what I know is this – as long as there are animals in our home, there will always be holiday magic. Speaking of the holiday season, I think you’ll find that this issue of Animal Wellness is a full “gift bag” of excellent and informative articles. Deck the halls by using our tips and advice on decorating your home in a pet-friendly way, or by baking some special festive treats for your dog or cat. Give your pooch the gift of health with a chiropractic adjustment, or check out our Holiday Gift Guide for more useful ideas.
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Animal Wellness
If you tend to suffer from post-holiday blues, our cover dog, Larry, is sure to make you smile! This sweet-natured pit bull dispels the stigma surrounding this oft-feared breed, and thanks to a huge social media following, he’s helping people around the world change their attitudes. And if you’re hankering for a visit to warmer climes, read about a new volunteer veterinary clinic that recently opened on a gorgeous tropical island off Thailand. Head into the New Year with valuable information on homeopathy for treating cancer; helping your dog adapt to a loss or separation; training a pup not to bite or jump; and how acupressure and ice can work together to alleviate canine seizures. And be sure to test your knowledge of pet first aid with our five-question quiz! On the cat side, we present nine tips for successful litter training and look at how an integrative approach can give kitties with cancer an extra boost towards healing. Wishing you a magical holiday season!
Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief
December 2016/January 2017
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contributors
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1. Veterinarian Dr. Todd Cooney graduated from Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. He took Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy and changed the way he viewed health and disease. He now uses homeopathy exclusively in all his cases. His practice is located in Indiana; he also does long distance consulting, and serves as an instructor for the Pitcairn Institute of Veterinary Homeopathy. He co-authors an article on homeopathy for cancer on page 58. 2. Veterinarian Dr. Amy Hayek graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 1998. She opened her own practice in 2001 in Summerville, South Carolina. She teaches for Animal Chiropractic Education Source, has published in the Journal of the AVMA, and lectures for the AVCA and others. Dr. Hayek is co-author of an article about chiropractic on page 22. 3. Veterinarian Dr. Lisa Melling graduated from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. In 2007, she co-founded Best Friends Pet Wellness, a house call practice serving the Ann Arbor area. She enrolled in Dr. Pitcairn’s Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy, and was recognized as a Certified Veterinary Homeopath by the AVH in 2011. She presents at the Annual Meeting in Veterinary Homeopathy, and was a speaker at the 2014 AVH Conference. Turn to page 58 for her co-written article on homeopathy for cancer. 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 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 &
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Animal Wellness
Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. In this issue (page 44), he looks at important advances in animal care over the past 25 years. 5. Veterinarian Dr. William Ormston graduated from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1988. He received certification from the AVCA and began using chiropractic to treat his animal patients. Jubilee Animal Health is a mobile practice in the Dallas Metroplex area where he cares for animals using mostly alternative methods. On page 22, Dr. Ormston co-authors an article on chiropractic care. 6. Veterinarian Dr. Tom Schell is a private practicing veterinarian and researcher in North Carolina, heading up research and product development for Nouvelle Research, Inc. His main interest in practice and research is the impact of inflammation on chronic disease and the use of herbs to help improve clinical outcomes. He may be reached at tschelldvm@gmail.com. Part 2 of his article on vitamin C therapy is on page 28. 7. 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). Read her article about the latest research on spay/neuter (page 18). 8. Veterinarian Dr. Sarah Steig completed her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences in 2009. She also completed Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy. Dr. Stieg presents at the Annual Meeting in Veterinary
Homeopathy, and in 2013 became Director of the Pitcairn Institute of Veterinary Homeopathy. She is an integrative veterinarian in North Yorkshire, England. Turn to page 58 for her co-written article on homeopathy for cancer. 9. Audi Donamor has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for two decades. She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She is the proud recipient of a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and was honored with the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, for her work in cancer, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. Audi provides tasty seasonal recipes on pages 80 and 95. 10. Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow are authors of ACU-DOG: a Guide to Canine Acupressure and ACUCAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass Publishers, offering books, manuals, DVDs, apps, and meridian charts. Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute provides a 300-hour training program worldwide. It is an approved school by the Dept. of Higher Education through the State of Colorado and an approved provider of NCBTMB and NCCAOM CEs. Phone 888-841-7211, visit animalacupressure.com or email Tallgrass@animalacupressure.com. On page 48, Amy and Nancy show how acupressure can help with seizures. 11. 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 blog, The Conscious Cat, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid is the Cat Expert for Answers.com, and the publisher of online magazine News for You and Your Pet. Read her article on integrative cancer care for cats on page 92.
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12. Gillian Ridgeway is the Director of Who’s Walking Who Training Centres in Toronto and Ajax, Ontario. She has been featured on many television and radio programs and appeared regularly as the canine expert on Canoe Live. Gillian was recently added to the curriculum of the Psychology Department of The University of Toronto, addressing students on the topic of learning theory, using her own dogs to demonstrate practical application. On page 26, she provides step-by-step training tips. 13. Lisa Wagner is Operations Director for Walks ‘N’ Wags Pet First Aid, based in Vancouver, BC. She has worked in the pet first aid industry since 2003 and is an active international volunteer with World Vets International. To find a Walks ‘N’ Wags Pet First Aid course in your area, visit walksnwags.com. Test your knowledge of pet first aid with her quiz on page 61.
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contributors
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14. Jennifer Hinders is a freelance writer, editor and dog lover who lives in Fairfax, Virginia. For this issue (page 78), she gives advice on how to help your dog adapt to a loss in the household. 15. Chandana Banerjee is a writer, holistic health coach and yoga teacher. She writes for newspapers, magazines, websites and companies in India and around the world, and has been published in national and international publications. She has written content for small business owners and coached women who wanted to reach their wellness goals. On page 66, Chandana looks at how Tibetan singing bowl therapy can help animals.
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16. Kathyrn Jastrow Davis is a teacher, writer and advocate for both human and animal rights. She has published hundreds of articles on topics ranging from education issues to politics and the arts. This is the first time a story has touched her soul – it’s a profile of a ground-breaking volunteer vet clinic on a remote tropical island (page 56). 17. Jac Smith is a freelance writer and animal lover from the UK. She’s been “mum” to a multitude and wide variety of animals over the years and currently shares her life with a collie cross named Mig and a goldish named Cod. On page 89, Jac shares nine tips for litter box training.
December 2016/January 2017
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yakkity yak CANINE CANCER DETECTORS Dogs have a unique ability to aid in the detection of cancer, thanks to their powerful sense of smell, which can be up to 100,000 times more acute than a human’s. At Penn Vet Working Dog Centre, researchers are taking this phenomenon to the next level. Funded by a grant from the Kaleidoscope of Hope Ovarian Cancer Foundation, three dogs have been trained to harness their cancer-detection ability for the early detection of ovarian cancer, which otherwise often isn’t caught until its late stages. Using a wheel with 12 ports containing one malignant sample, benign and normal samples, and other random distractions, the dogs have been successfully trained to identify the malignant sample 90% of the time. This research will allow experts to determine the unique odor signature of ovarian cancer in order to develop early detection technology. vet.upenn.edu
CELEBRATING CANINE EXCELLENCE Dogs are capable of amazing loyalty and heroism. The 17th Annual AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) celebrates five working dogs that have significantly impacted the lives of their owners and communities. Here are just two of this year’s winners:
Radar
Teddie and Krystal
Radar – Uniformed Service K-9 K-9 Deputy Radar is an AKC-registered bloodhound serving in Elbert County, Colorado. His training for finding missing persons and tracking criminals and evidence began at ten weeks of age. Radar has since worked with close to three dozen law-enforcementagencies, including the FBI. He has assisted with cases for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and is assisting NecroSearch International, a national group that solves cold case homicides. Teddie – Service Dog
Teddie is a five-year-old Labrador retriever certified with Canine Partners for Life. She is a service dog for Krystal Greco, who suddenly became paralyzed from the waist down at age 14. Unable to attend school regularly, the housebound teenager began feeling depressed, isolated and lonely. Krystal contacted Canine Partners for Life and Teddie entered her life the following year. From opening and closing doors to alerting Krystal when she might need to use the bathroom, Teddie has helped her earn three college associates degrees, work a part-time job, travel, and volunteer as a spokesperson and demonstrator for Canine Partners for Life. Currently, Teddie is by Krystal’s side as she works on her baccalaureate degree at Maryland University College. Visit www.akc.org for the complete list of winners.
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Animal Wellness
The dogs at Penn Vet have learned to sniff out malignant samples on a 12-port wheel.
Make time to
relax and play
with your dog or cat this holiday season. It’ll help
de-stress both of you.
HEALTHY BONDS = HEALTHY PETS “When people find out that pets improve heart health, decrease stress, help alleviate depression and address specific conditions that include autism, PTSD and Alzheimer’s, they become more focused on caring for their pets' health,” says Steven Feldman, the Executive Director of the HABRI Foundation, which recently worked with the American Animal Hospital Association to conduct a survey asking 2,000 pet owners how animals improve human health. The results showed that the more awareness people have of the benefits of the humananimal bond, the more motivated they are to provide quality care to their pets: • 92% said they were more likely to maintain their animals' health, including keeping up with preventive medicine. • 88% said they were more likely to provide their pets with higher quality nutrition. • 51% said they were more likely to purchase pet health insurance. aaha.org
RIP, BOCKER We were saddened to learn that Bocker the Labradoodle got his angel wings recently, passing away from kidney failure at the age of 13. Regular readers will remember seeing this personable pooch on the cover of our Dec/Jan 2014/15 issue of Animal Wellness. Bocker became famous for his therapy dog work, animal advocacy, and as a handsome model, TV and movie star. With almost a million followers between Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, it goes without saying that Bocker will be deeply missed. Our condolences go out to his person, Marie Shelto, who aims to carry on his good works, starting with a partnership with the Animal Cancer Foundation. You can leave a message for Bocker and Marie at facebook.com/bocker. December 2016/January 2017
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yakkity yak ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN… …or do they? Anthrozoös recently published a study on beliefs about animal afterlife. It involved 800 Americans and investigated how demographic categories affect such beliefs, thereby exploring a largely uncharted area of spirituality. According to the study, those who believe in an afterlife for humans are 75% more likely to believe in an afterlife for animals too. Interestingly, the survey also indicated that only 45% of pet owners believe in an afterlife for animals (compared to 37.8% of non-pet owners). Perhaps this is due to a general lack of religious beliefs or faith. It could also “point to the importance of cultural traditions and inherited preconceptions towards beliefs about animals over actual animal experiences like pet ownership,” according to the study. The researchers also found people held different beliefs for different animals. “In general, dogs, cats, and horses were rated the most likely to experience an afterlife,” says study leader Kenneth Royal of North Carolina State University. Visit tandfonline. com and search “animal afterlife” to find more results from the study.
WAY TO GO, PET SITTERS! Once considered a job for students, pet-sitting is now a true profession. More households own pets than ever before, making pet-sitting as a career not only emotionally satisfying but also financially rewarding. Pet Sitters International (PSI, petsit.com) is an educational association for professional pet sitters, and is committed to helping animal lovers and entrepreneurs grow successful pet-sitting businesses and turn their passion into profit. According to PSI’s 2016 survey: • Nearly 100% of its pet-sitting businesses are independently owned, and the majority of businesses are owned solely by women (nearly 83%). • 90% of pet sitters have completed at least some college, with 33.6% having obtained Bachelor’s degrees and 13.8% pursuing graduate level studies. • 58% of PSI’s pet sitters left another career to start their pet-sitting businesses. • PSI’s member pet-sitting businesses performed more than 17 million pet-sitting assignments and generated more than $391 million in pet-sitting revenues last year.
Check with a
holistic vet
to see if your dog needs
vitamin D
supplementation this winter. 14
Animal Wellness
December 2016/January 2017
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yakkity yak TOP 5 REASONS TO RESCUE Looking for a new dog or cat? Consider adopting from a shelter or rescue rather than buying from a breeder. The Humane Society of the United States has compiled ten good reasons to adopt or rescue – here are the top five:
You'll save a life A shelter pet is more than one in a million – she's one in 2.7 million. That's the number of adoptable dogs and cats still euthanized in the US each year.
You'll get a great animal Animal rescue groups and shelters are brimming with happy, healthy pets that likely ended up there because of a move or divorce, and not because they did anything wrong.
You'll get a great bargain When you adopt, the cost of spay/neuter, first vaccinations and microchipping is usually included in the adoption price, so you'll score a new furry friend and a major deal.
It's one way to fight puppy mills Puppy mills house animals in shockingly poor conditions with improper medical care or human companionship, resulting in illness and behavioral issues.
It’s good for your health and self-esteem Adopting can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and make you feel proud about helping an animal in need.
Letter to the editor
humanesociety.org/issues/adopt/tips/top_reasons_adopt.html
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I am such a fan of Animal Wellness Magazine. I am taking online courses in holistic pet care, and one day at the bookstore I discovered your magazine. It absolutely helps me wit h my studies. I love that there is a holistic animal care magazine out there, and I've loved using the tips from the publication. My doggies love it too! Thank you again for making something like this possible, and for your great articles. Big fan, Shelby G.
Animal Wellness
Our team works very hard and we your feedback!
Editor-in-Chief note:
so appreciate
December 2016/January 2017
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Is spaying and neutering for dogs?
good
Recent studies indicate that spaying and neutering can negatively impact canine health. Here’s a look at the latest research – and the ALTERNATIVES to de-sexing our dogs. By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM
For a long time now, animal health professionals and welfare advocates have been encouraging people to spay and neuter their dogs. On the surface it makes good sense, since the homeless dog problem is a serious one, and preventing more litters helps reduce animal overpopulation and suffering, and reduces strain on shelters and rescues. But more recently, a growing body of evidence indicates that spaying or neutering – particularly as it relates to large breeds de-sexed early in life – significantly increases the risk of serious health problems.
WHAT ARE THE STUDIES SAYING?
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Ovary removal significantly increases the risk for major fatal disease in female Rottweilers.
A study from the Gerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation found a correlation between the age at which female Rottweilers are spayed and their lifespan. The study compared female Rotties who lived to be 13 or older, with a group who lived the expected lifespan of about nine years. "Female dogs in our study had a distinct survival advantage over males. But taking away ovaries during the first four years of life completely erased the female survival advantage,” noted David J. Waters, lead researcher and professor at Purdue University. “We found that female Rottweilers that kept their ovaries for at least six years were four times more likely to reach exceptional
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Animal Wellness
longevity compared to females who had the shortest lifetime ovary exposure." Simply put, study results indicate removal of a Rottweiler’s ovaries significantly increases the risk for a major lethal disease such as cancer.
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In de-sexed golden retrievers, rates of joint disease and cancer are much higher than in intact dogs.
A recent study conducted at the University of California, Davis provides additional evidence that spaying or neutering, and the age at which it is done, may increase a dog's risk of certain cancers and joint diseases. The study looked at the health records of 759 golden retrievers. The dogs ranged in age from one to eight years, and had been seen at the UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for one or more of the following problems: • Hip dysplasia • Cranial cruciate ligament tear • Lymphosarcoma • Hemangiosarcoma • Mast cell tumor
The researchers focused on joint disorders and cancers because de-sexing removes the testes or ovaries and disrupts the production of hormones that play an important role in body processes like bone growth plate closure. Study results indicated that for all five diseases, the rates were significantly higher in both males and females that were neutered or spayed (before or after one year of age) compared with intact dogs. Results showed a 100% increase in the rate of hip dysplasia in male goldens neutered before 12 months of age; 10% were diagnosed with the condition, double the rate of occurrence in intact males. Past studies have reported a 17% increase among all neutered dogs compared to all intact dogs. The researchers suggest that neutering male golden retrievers well beyond puberty will help prevent an increased risk of hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament injury, and lymphosarcoma. For female goldens, the research team concluded that: â€œâ€Ś the timing of [spaying] is more problematical because early [spaying] significantly increases the incidence rate of CCL from near 0% to almost 8%, and late [spaying] increases the rates of hemangiosarcoma to four times that of the 1.6% rate for intact females.â€?
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V izsla study suggests a significantly increased risk for cancer and behavioral disorders in spayed or neutered dogs.
A 2014 study of over 2,500 Vizslas revealed that dogs neutered or spayed at any age were at significantly increased risk for developing mast cell cancer, lymphoma, and all other cancers combined, as compared with intact Vizslas. Dogs of both genders neutered or spayed at six months or younger also had significantly increased odds of developing a behavioral disorder, including separation anxiety, noise phobia, timidity, excitability, submissive urination, aggression, hyperactivity, and/or fear biting. All neutered or spayed Vizslas were at greater risk for thunderstorm phobia than intact dogs, regardless of age at neutering. The younger the age at neutering, the earlier the age of diagnosis with mast cell cancer, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, all other cancers combined, behavioral disorders or fear of storms. Spayed female Vizslas had a nine times higher incidence of hemangiosarcoma compared to intact females, regardless of when spaying was performed; however, no difference in incidence of this type of cancer was found for neutered versus intact males. Continued on page 20.
December 2016/January 2017
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STERILIZING RATHER
THAN DE-SEXING
Over the years, I've changed my own view on spaying and neutering dogs, based not just on these studies, but also on the health challenges faced by so many of my canine patients after I spayed or neutered them. These were primarily irreversible metabolic diseases that appeared within a few years of a dog's surgery. These days I work with each individual dog owner to make decisions that provide the most health benefits for the dog. Whenever possible, I prefer to leave dogs intact, but this approach requires a highly responsible pet guardian who is fully committed to and capable of preventing the dog from mating (unless he or she is a responsible breeder and that is the goal). Luckily, my clients are incredibly responsible and educated, and I’ve never had a single unplanned pregnancy in my veterinary career. But I’m not providing veterinary care to the entire world, and the world is full of irresponsible people. My second choice is to sterilize without desexing. This means performing a procedure that will prevent pregnancy while sparing the testes or ovaries so they continue to produce hormones essential for the dog's health. This can be done at any age. It typically involves a vasectomy for male dogs, and a modified spay for females. The modified spay removes the uterus while preserving the hormone-producing ovaries. This procedure is less invasive, requires shorter time under anesthesia and still yields the same results with no negative side effects. Generally speaking, mature intact dogs have the benefit of a lifetime of sex hormone production, so the endocrine imbalances we see with spayed or neutered puppies and young dogs don't occur when dogs are de-sexed in their later years.
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Animal Wellness
Continued from page 19. Neutered and spayed dogs had a 4.3 times higher incidence of lymphoma, regardless of age at time of neutering, and a five times higher incidence of other types of cancer. Spayed female Vizslas had a 6.5 times higher incidence of all cancers combined compared to intact females, and neutered males had a 3.6 times higher incidence than intact males.
4
German shepherds de-sexed before one year of age have a tripled risk of joint disorders.
Another very recent study was conducted at UC Davis, this time involving German shepherds. The results suggest that spaying or neutering before one year of age triples the risk of joint disorders, in particular cranial cruciate ligament tears, in these dogs. The researchers analyzed the veterinary records of 1,170 German shepherds, both neutered/spayed and intact, for a 14.5-year period. They looked for joint disorders and cancers already linked to desexing, and separated the dogs into categories that included intact, desexed before six months, between six and 11 months, and between 12 and 23 months. The study found that 7% of intact males were diagnosed with one or more joint disorders compared with 21% males neutered prior to one year of age. Five percent of intact females developed joint disorders, compared with 16% of females spayed before one year. Intact female German shepherds were found to develop mammary cancer at a rate of 4%, compared with less than 1% of females spayed before one year. Intact females had no diagnosed incidence of urinary incontinence, compared with 7% of females spayed before one year. "Simply delaying the spay/neuter until the dog is a year old can markedly reduce the chance of a joint disorder,” said lead researcher Dr. Benjamin Hart of the US Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Since simply delaying a spay or neuter until a dog is older doesn’t address all the health challenges we see in de-sexed versus intact dogs, we need to investigate alternative methods of sterilizing that do not involve removing the ovaries or testes.
December 2016/January 2017
21
WHY A
CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT
IS A GREAT
gift FOR YOUR DOG
By Bill Ormston, DVM, CVC, and Amy Hayek, DVM, MA, CVA, CVC
CHIROPRACTIC HELPS THE NERVOUS SYSTEM, WHICH CONTROLS THE WHOLE BODY, FUNCTION PROPERLY. THIS MEANS ADJUSTMENTS HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON MANY HEALTH PROBLEMS BESIDES BACK PAIN. WHAT BETTER WAY TO TREAT YOUR DOG THIS
holiday season?
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Animal Wellness
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for your dog? Treats and toys are wonderful, but have you considered booking him a chiropractic adjustment? It might seem an unusual present, until you realize that chiropractic care offers your dog lasting health benefits that will continue through the New Year. Many people think chiropractic is primarily a treatment for back and neck problems. What they may not know is that it’s also very good for the nervous system. Because the nervous system controls the whole body (see sidebar opposite), many health conditions are neurologic in origin, and chiropractic can do a lot to help treat them. The following are just a few issues chiropractic adjustments can assist with. Coordination and balance – A chiropractic adjustment will enhance your dog’s coordination and balance through heightened body awareness. Dogs are so active, especially when young, and sometimes seem to have no regard for their safety. This can lead to problems with proprioception and reaction
times. By restoring the nervous system’s ability to communicate with your dog’s other body parts, his brain will be able to control the movement of his limbs more efficiently and help him realize where he is in relationship to the surroundings. This improved communication can help puppies move in a more balanced manner earlier in life, and help senior dogs move more fluidly later in life. Diabetes – A dog with a subluxation will experience improper nerve flow to and from the organs of his body. Without this power, cellular dysfunction begins to occur. Cellular nutrition requires glucose and insulin levels to be in balance. Diabetes is a name for when cells and hormones are not working together to control and provide appropriate nutrition to the cells of the body. Inappropriate responses cause the cells to be resistant to the function of insulin, which causes glucose levels to be elevated all the time. Cortisol levels are also permanently elevated, which can lead to Cushing’s. Metabolic disease syndrome occurs and causes severe debilitating problems for your dog. These conditions can be helped by improving nerve flow through chiropractic adjustments. Immunity – An efficiently functioning immune system protects your dog from all sorts of bacterial and viral challenges. Chiropractic care has been proven by Dr. Ron Pero to improve immune competence by 400% in adjusted individuals when compared to non-adjusted individuals, and 400% when compared to individuals known to be sick. Studies have shown that chiropractic may influence T and B lymphocytes, natural killer cell numbers, antibody levels, phagocytic activity and plasma beta-endorphin levels. Again, the nervous system regulates all function throughout the body, and the production of immune cells is no exception. Continued on page 24.
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM CONTROLS
EVERYTHING
The nervous system is the first bodily system that forms as two cells come together and start developing into your dog. This is because the nervous system is needed to control every other organ and tissue in the body. In turn, this means your dog’s good health requires an optimally functioning nervous system. Everything about the life your dog enjoys is because of his nervous system and the power running through it. Any interference to spinal function can impede the nervous system from operating at its absolute best, thereby affecting the function of organs and other systems in the body. This is where chiropractic comes in. Chiropractic is about power, not pain and lameness. The power that turned those two cells into the amazing mass of cells that is now your dog is the same power that controls every reaction that occurs in his body. Chiropractic care is not about curing disease; it is about helping restore normal communication between your dog’s brain and every part of his body. Restoring this communication allows the brain to resume appropriate control and guide the organs to function at optimal levels.
December 2016/January 2017
23
Continued from page 23. Louis Pastueur once said: “In a state of health, the body is shut off from the invasion of Germs.” Regular chiropractic care can help your dog’s immune system resist opportunistic viral infection (e.g. canine flu) and parasites, thereby saving money on the cost of medications to clear the infections, and eliminating the risk of side effects from those same medications. Pain – The Harvard School of Medicine recently released a study that recognized chiropractic care as a viable treatment for pain. When your dog is in pain, it is difficult for him to relax and allow the sympathetic nervous system to do things like digest food, heal damaged tissue and eliminate toxins. His general health as well as his quality of life are therefore affected. For example, a dog with a subluxated rib will experience an inability to breathe deeply. This inability to control oxygen and carbon dioxide levels will alter the pH of his blood. An altered blood pH will change the way the brain controls some bodily functions, leading to conditions like gastric ulcers, kidney problems and muscle fatigue. Motion – Chiropractic care helps the body resume normal motion. When there is one area of your dog’s body that can’t move properly, compensations must be made in other areas. This abnormal motion leads to altered function of the limbs, which if left uncorrected, can lead to tendon and ligament injuries and chronic joint changes. Evidence-based medicine proves that chiropractic care helps restore a more normal movement in the dog. Abnormal motion can also have a negative impact on the organs. As an example, a female dog with a subluxated pelvis will not be able to squat properly to urinate. This will cause waste products to pool in the bladder and enter the uterine cavity. Once in the uterus, the bacteria these waste products carry lead to inflammation and irritation and may cause a life-threatening infection. In addition, once this inflammation cascade is turned on in one place in her body, it gets turned on everywhere, leading to a decline in the dog’s ability to respond to minor irritations appropriately. Giving medication to resolve an issue created by nervous system interference will do nothing more than manage the symptoms, giving a false sense of health. Until the cause (nervous system interference) is addressed, health will continue to dwindle, leading to more symptoms and more medications. With life restored via chiropractic adjustment, the body is free to work as intended, curing disease and eliminating symptoms on its own. This holiday, why not give the gift of wellness to your dog with some chiropractic care?
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Animal Wellness
FINDING A CHIROPRACTOR
The best way to find a qualified, certified chiropractor for your dog is to do a search on the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association website, which lists doctors in both the US and Canada. Visit animalchiropractic.org to learn more.
December 2016/January 2017
25
STEP BY STEP tips to stop biting Adopting a puppy from a shelter or rescue is exciting. A time full of laughter and fun, expectations and plans. And those plans need to include some proper and consistent training. As with all plans, it’s important to lay them out in steps and systematically progress through each step towards your goal. Learning to enjoy and celebrate each step is important. You will soon see that the best laid plans really are the best!
STEP BY STEP – STOP BITING It’s no fun when your puppy starts to bite you, and bite hard. His teeth can be razor sharp. In fact, some won’t even let you get close before they lunge out. But the fact is, puppies bite. For the sake of teething or to get your attention, they all do it. The main area of concern is what to do about it so that he grows up to be a nice adult dog with bite inhibition. There will most likely be times in a dog’s adult life when he may bite. It might be from fear, or because his tail gets stepped on by accident. Knowing this, you need to teach your youngster that if he does happen to bite by mistake later on, he should never bite down hard. This is something all pups and young dogs need to know. By teaching him to never bite at all, he will never learn the difference between a hard and soft bite. our pup is biting on your hand but it doesn’t hurt. This is 1 Yfine. He is learning how to have a soft mouth. However, the
2 3
second that bite turns hard, you are called to action. Loudly say the word “yikes” and remove your hand. I find that word is great as it is easy to remember, easy to say, and usually stops the puppy quickly. Immediately put the flat of your palm directly in front of his muzzle; you should find that he’ll lick it. At that time, you can use the word “gentle”. I find that 99% of the time, the pup will
tips to stop jumping
STEP BY STEP – TO JUMP OR NOT TO JUMP
Teaching an alternate behavior is the best way to go when training a puppy not to jump. Instead of telling him what not to do, you’ll be far more successful if you teach him what you would prefer, and reward him for it. By rewarding the behavior you want, with a favorite toy or treat, your dog is far more likely to do what is asked in the future.
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Animal Wellness
By Gillian Ridgeway
GUIDE
lick your palm as soon as it is presented to him, after the “yikes”. If he continues to bite at your hands after you have tried this, tether him on a small house leash away from you, for a timeout. This gives him, and you, a moment apart to cool down.
Helpful hint: It is very important that your youngster gets
enough sleep. Most pups that are getting riled up and nipping a lot do better after a nap. Remember, he will not put himself down for a nap, so it is up to you. Young pups need a good three- to four-hour sleep midday.
pup jumps up, take a step back from him. You 1 Wwillhenseeyour he now has four feet on the ground. Ask him to sit. Hopefully, he has already learned the word 2 “sit”; otherwise, teach it separately. As you can see, training your puppy doesn’t have to be difficult. A positive approach that includes patience and consistency are the keys to success. December 2016/January 2017
27
HIGH D SE D gs Cats
vitamin C therapy f or pets – part 2
When injected at high doses into a pet or person, VITAMIN C offers some amazing healing benefits and can even help treat cancer.
By Tom Schell, DVM, CVCH Vitamin C is a well-known nutrient. It has notable antioxidant properties, and is found in many fruits, including the ever popular orange. We are all familiar with vitamin C’s ability to help battle colds and flu, but when given intravenously, this nutrient can offer additional levels of protection and benefit to the body, whether human or animal, and can help treat cancer and other conditions. In Part 1 of this article (AW Oct-Nov 2016), we looked at the development and benefits of high dose vitamin C therapy. Now we’ll cover approaches to therapy and look at how it can help with cancer and other problems.
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Animal Wellness
WHY IS THE INTRAVENOUS METHOD USED? There are several reasons why high doses of vitamin C are given intravenously rather than orally.
Higher levels of vitamin C are needed in the bloodstream to obtain desired results in the patient, and this can often only be achieved through intravenous administration. Our goal is to literally saturate the body with vitamin C, obtaining incredibly high blood levels of ascorbate for various purposes.
With
the oral route, the body is limited in its ability to absorb high amounts of vitamin C. It will only absorb a specified amount and the rest will be eliminated. According to Dr. Linus Pauling, this was termed “bowel tolerance”. As the patient absorbed what was needed orally, essentially saturating the body, the remaining amount would create an osmotic type of diarrhea. This “bowel tolerance” differed from patient to patient and condition to condition, with some patients able to take higher oral amounts before experiencing diarrhea, while others developing diarrhea on much lower amounts. In reality, this reflected the body’s “need” for vitamin C. If one patient can take 30 grams per day before developing diarrhea, while another develops diarrhea with only two grams, it likely signifies a higher
level of vitamin C deficiency in the first patient, and thus a higher demand.
The
intravenous route is chosen for various therapies with cancer patients and for other conditions. Through the intravenous route, we are able to bypass the GI tract, delivering ascorbic acid and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream, achieving high serum levels quite quickly. Many physicians in the past utilized other modes of administration, including intra-muscular injections, but the intravenous route is optimal as the intra-muscular shot can often be painful and thus limited in volume.
In many alternative human practices, vitamin C is being used in doses ranging from ten to 100 grams, often twice weekly, given as a fluid infusion to the patient over a period of a couple of hours. Some practitioners combine the vitamin C with other micronutrients, while others use vitamin C alone, diluted in sterile water or saline.
VITAMIN C THERAPY IN THE CLINIC In 2006, our clinic invested in a device called the FRAS-4, which allowed us to measure free radical and antioxidant levels in our patients. We could visibly see how various health conditions ranging from trauma to surgery to cancer impacted the patient on a cellular level. Continued on page 30.
December 2016/January 2017
29
Continued from page 29. It was quite surprising to me, as a surgeon, to be able to see and evaluate the levels of free radical damage and depleted antioxidant reserves in surgical patients, especially geriatric animals undergoing routine procedures for tooth cleaning or minor mass removals. As a result, we began to routinely implement vitamin C infusions into our surgical protocols. I believe it helped our patients recover more quickly with fewer intra-op or postop complications.
TUMOR LYSIS syndrome
In human medicine, large doses of intravenous vitamin C have been known to stimulate what has been termed “tumor lysis syndrome”, especially in patients with multiple large tumors. It has been theorized that in some cases, due to the potent ability of vitamin C, dramatic and rapid tumor cell death can occur, triggering a subsequent immune response, a release of inflammatory proteins, and essentially a toxic-like condition for the patient.
Vitamin C infusions became a standard in our practice for many situations, ranging from traumas to surgeries to organ failure in older patients. Usually, we were already administering fluid therapy as part of our patient support, so we would simply add vitamin C to the infusion bag at set doses, depending on the current situation.
I experienced this in only one animal patient, a Chow with oral malignant melanoma of the oral cavity that had spread to the bone around the eye. In these types of patients, we would usually titrate or gradually increase the dose of vitamin C over the first week or two; but in this case, the second dose proved to be damaging. We experienced a rapid and dramatic change in the dog’s tumor, which became much softer and even smaller, but the patient was not doing well, and had a fever and generalized lethargy. The clinical signs were attributed to rapid tumor cell kill-off, and in this case the only solution was to surgically remove as much of the tumor as we could, in order to hopefully reduce the cellular events taking place. We surgically removed about 50% of the tumor mass and the patient then did well with continued vitamin C infusions. Her life was extended by nine months.
This therapy benefited patients with improved recovery times, improved healing and overall enhancement in health on many other levels. The vitamin C infusions were used alone or in combination with other therapies, including conventional antibiotics or corticosteroids as well as dietary and herbal therapy. No known negative interactions were noted; we believe the infusions actually helped create some synergism, enhancing the effects of other therapies.
INTRAVENOUS VITAMIN C AND CANCER In our cancer patients, we had a few cases in which vitamin C therapy resulted in complete remission, while in others, we were able to dramatically extend survival time. In all patients, we saw huge improvements in energy, healing and appetite. It was not uncommon for an owner to call our office the day after treatment and ask what we had given her pet, because he was running around the house and eating like a horse, when the day before he could barely get up. In many cases, we helped slow the progression of cancer, and the patient continued to thrive. I recall a Jack Russell terrier that presented for inoperable liver cancer; the owners had been told by an oncologist that nothing further could be offered. Through a combination of herbal and dietary therapy, and sporadic intravenous vitamin C therapy, this dog not only survived but thrived, living another three years and beyond my own retirement from private practice. We were able to reduce the tumor size by 50%, though it was still present on repeat ultrasounds. The owners were always disappointed when I told them the tumor was still there, despite the fact it was so much smaller. They looked at cancer as a major illness, forgetting that their aged dog was running circles around them at home.
To me, the cancer was simply holding the dog back, creating deficiencies and drains on the body, but once corrected, this patient could actually “live” with the tumor. Many have noted that cancer is not a disease to be cured, but one to be managed – and high dose vitamin C therapy can play an effective part in achieving this goal, along with many others.
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Animal Wellness
December 2016/January 2017
31
Pet-friendly holiday decorating The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a tree, greenery, candles and ornaments. If you have a dog or cat, you need to consider his safety around your decorations. Here’s how to keep him safe and healthy while also having a festive-looking home.
By Ann Brightman
D gs Cats
Enjoying the holidays includes putting up a tree, hanging a wreath, and getting out the special ornaments and seasonal candles. But is it really worth it if you’re going to worry about your dog or cat damaging the decorations and harming himself? By making some compromises, you can nix the worry and have the best of both worlds – a festive home, and a safe and happy pet.
THE CHRISTMAS TREE The fragrance of a live Christmas tree is wonderful – and your dog or cat may also be attracted to it, with negative consequences. Ingesting tree sap can make him sick, so make sure the pot of tree water is securely covered, so he doesn’t take a drink from it. Artificial trees don’t have the aroma of a live spruce or pine, but they’re much more realistic-looking than they were, the “needles” are non-toxic and fireproof, and there’s no sap so they won’t hurt your pet. Situate the tree away from your dog or cat’s favorite windows. If he finds he can’t look out or jump on the sill anymore, he’s more likely to interfere with the tree in an effort to get to the window. Put the tree in a corner instead. It’ll be more secure too, since there’s only one direction it can fall in – and you can
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Animal Wellness
prevent even that by anchoring it to the wall or a ceiling hook. This is especially important if you have a cat that likes to climb. Leave the tree undecorated for a day or two. This will help your pet get used to it, and perhaps even start to lose in interest in it before you hang your ornaments and string the lights. Place wooden or plastic ornaments at the bottom of the tree, and save the more valuable and breakable items for the top, where they’ll be safer from curious paws and noses. Glass tree lights are dangerous if broken or swallowed. They can also get quite hot. Opt for plastic LED lights and choose larger-sized bulbs – they stay cool and aren’t breakable. Be sure light strings are securely attached to the tree, and avoid loops that could twist or droop and pose a choking hazard. Never leave the lights on when you’re not around – if your dog or cat chews on the wires, he could be electrocuted. If your pet insists on tampering with the lights, try spraying them with bitter apple. Don’t put edibles on the tree. It’s just asking for trouble, since dogs especially will be attracted by cookies and candy canes, which they shouldn’t be eating anyhow. Popcorn strings and chocolate coins are also huge no-nos when you have pets.
Care with candles
•N ever leave burning candles unattended, especially if you have pets. •M ake sure candles are in holders, and place them out of reach of dogs and cats – never near the edge of a table or shelf, or close to any fabric. •C hoose natural beeswax or soy-based candles with natural cotton wicks. Paraffin candles emit toxins as they burn. •F lameless LED candles are an effective alternative to the regular kind, and feature flickering lights that look very realistic.
WREATHS, GARLANDS AND SWAGS If you use live greenery to decorate the rest of the house with, choose species that don’t have berries, many of which can be toxic. Pine and spruce are about the best choices, but make sure the greenery is freshly cut so it won’t start dropping needles before the holidays are half over. Even with the freshest greenery, some dropping is inevitable later in the season, so check the floor daily and clean up fallen needles or cones (the same applies to the tree). Place wreaths, garlands and swags out of your pet’s reach – good locations are behind picture frames, over the tops of doors or windows, or above a china cabinet. The mantelpiece is also fine as long as your cat isn’t in the habit of jumping on it.
Avoid mistletoe, hemlock, holly and ivy, which can all make your dog or cat sick. Pine and spruce are just as nice, and you can dress up swags, garlands and wreaths with ribbons, plastic berries and other decorations. Alternatively, choose artificial greenery. It’s so lifelike nowadays that it can be hard to tell from the real thing – it’s safer for your pet, and less work for you because there’s no dropping. All it takes is a little extra planning to have festive and petfriendly home for the holidays!
December 2016/January 2017
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Holiday GIFT GUIDE GoDogGo Automatic Ball Thrower for Dogs
GoDogGo is the World’s First Fetch Machine and Original Award-Winning Automatic Ball Launcher for Dogs. Designed specifically for dogs & allows for various forms of independent fetch or owner-controlled play with remote when desired. On demand ball launcher works with various balls sizes 1.75 inch to 2.5 inch, with many different styles and brands of dog fetch balls. GoDogGoInc.com
Floppy Discs Make “Puppy Dreams” come true! The USA made, Soft Bite Floppy Disc is soft, flexible, durable, and even holds water to give your dog a drink. They fly as well as a hard disc, float on water, and won’t sink out of sight in snow. They’re a doggies' dream come true in 7”, 10”, and 12” sizes. Amazon.com/floppydisc
Christmas Crazies Got You Stressed?
Ultimate Warmer
Mellow Dog Essential Oil Blend by LifeFORCE utilizes the calming and soothing properties of Lavender and Green Mandarin to take your beloved four-legged friend from a state of anxiety to total relaxation. Use the code “mellow10” and receive 10% off any Mellow Dog essential oil product. LifeFORCEpet.com
Be sure to get your Ultimate Warmer for extreme protection this winter season. The Ultimate Warmer provides efficient thermal insulation in extended outdoor activities in cold conditions. It is particularly well suited to training in winter, when long-term exposure to cold and drafts cannot be avoided. Order through the Animal Wellness Market AnimalWellnessMarket.com
Pain Free Holiday! We love our furry friends and want them to be pain free. They suffer from the same aches & pains as we do! LumaSoothe Home-Use Light Therapy relieves pain from hip dysplasia, arthritis, deep muscle injuries, spinal injuries and tendon or ligament injury, even old-age stiffness/soreness. Give your friend the gift of drug free pain relief this holiday season! LumaSoothe.com
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Animal Wellness
Speciiasilng advertture fea 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
Safe, effective odor eliminator Owning a dog or cat can be a stinky business. The smells of urine, feces and skunk can be safely eliminated from pets, crates and even your home or vehicle with NokOut Odour Eliminator. Whether your cat sprayed on the couch or your dog was sprayed by a skunk, this product knocks out the smells safely and effectively. NokOut is scentfree, non-toxic and 100% biodegradable. Available as a shampoo or gentle spray formula. NokOut.ca
You can teach your dog or cat Neutricks! As our pets age they lose proteins that support their brain cells. This can affect learning, memory and concentration. Neutricks® has designed a supplement for your pet’s cognitive health based on the success of the protein apoaequorin in research and clinical trials. Neutricks once a day was shown to significantly improve learning, accuracy and enhance attention. Neutricks.com
No Brushing Required! Total Oral Care by LifeFORCE is a complete, 100% all-natural solution to your pet’s oral care needs. It is designed to break down plaque and tartar, work under the gum line to help heal gum tissue, and kill the bacteria that causes bad breath. Use the code “total10” and receive 10% off Total Oral Care. LifeFORCEpet.com
Sleepypod Air pet carrier Sleepypod Air is a versatile carrier that maximizes the space available for in-cabin air travel. It’s also a crash tested car seat and a cozy pet bed away from home. Sleepypod.com
December 2016/January 2017
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Holiday GIFT GUIDE Clickit Sport dog safety harness Clickit Sport safety harness helps diminish the risk of injury to pets in accidents. It was rigorously tested to include the same crash tests used to test child safety restraints. Sleepypod.com
Medicate with Ease over the holidays GooFurr The Easy, Safe and Kind Way to Medicate a Cat. 100% Natural, delicious paste that you can mix in pill, supplements, anything at all. No more Force, just Ease. GooFurr Inc. 808-324-0247 GooFurr.com info@goofurr.com
Animal Wellness Natural Cookbook for Dogs
A Complete Raw Diet NO Fillers. NO Preservatives. Just Add Water and Feed! Feed them what they are genetically built to eat with LifeFORCE Cool-Air Dried Raw Food for pets. Our formula is a handmade raw, complete and natural diet that uses only the freshest meats and vegetables from Canadian sources. Then we dehydrate it to make it more convenient to feed and store as LifeFORCE is shelf stable for up to two years! Order today and use the code “lifeforce10” to receive 10% off any LifeFORCE Raw Food for pets. Only available in Canada. LifeFORCEpet.com
for dogs
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diets, l needss! , specia mealsural health tip azine s: main lness Mag and nat al Wel y recipe Healthholiday treats lishers of Anim By Suz
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Lip smackin’, tail waggin’, healthy goodness in every bite of this inspiring collection of full color recipes for your beautiful pooch. The editors of Animal Wellness Magazine have poured the love into creating this cookbook and you don’t have to be Julia Child to make these recipes… the easy to understand instructions will have them begging for seconds in no time. Proceeds support Canine Cancer Research. ONLY $15 Order Online. AnimalWellnessMagazine.com/cookbook
Evolution Maximum Life Pet Foods (since 1989) Is Anything More Important than Giving Extra Years of Life & Health to Your Dog or Cat? Evolution Pet Foods are Designed to Add Extra Healthy Years of Life & Health to Your Pet. 28 Years of Development. Sworn Experimental Study Proof. Support our Evolution No Kill Pet Rescue & Give the Gift Of Life to Your Pet. Evolution@Petfoodshop.com U.S. 1-800-659-0104 Canada 1-800-256-1518
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Animal Wellness
Speciiasilng advertture fea Become a dog trainer Have you always wanted to be a certified dog trainer, but didn’t have the time? Well, Canine Correspondence Studies lets you work at your own pace and with no deadlines! Visit us online to learn how you can be on your way to becoming a Certified Positive Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Therapist. DogTrainingCareers.com
Get your dirty dog squeaky clean! The Dirty Dog Shampoo Bar by LifeFORCE has your dirty dog covered. Our unique natural formula is tough on dirt yet gentle on skin. The deep cleansing action of Morrocan lava clay combines with the natural moisturizing effects of oatmeal, goat’s milk and shea butter to deliver a superior shampoo. And it lasts longer than liquid, so it’s a great value. Use the code “dirtydog10” to receive 10% off a Dirty Dog Shampoo Bar. LifeFORCEpet.com
Major Dog 7" Ball Premium HA for joints Keep them active and feeling better longer with Trixsyn®! Trixsyn conditions joints daily and is the only companion animal hyaluronan (HA) product with proven & 4-time patented efficacy. Trixsyn is recommended by leading veterinarians and is safe, vegan, and free of Chinese ingredients. Try it today! CogentSolutionsGroup.com/products/trixsyn
The Ball is the perfect gift for your furry loved one this holiday season. It is easy to throw, even for those who are out of practice. The two grips make it easy for dogs to pick up and perfect for retrieving. The material is very robust and durable. Order through the Animal Wellness Market AnimalWellnessMarket.com
The SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Recognises a pet’s microchip number or RFID collar tag, and opens
only for him. When he approaches the feeder, the lid slides open automatically to reveal the food, closing again when the pet has finished eating. Ideal for multi-cat households (or when the dog is constantly stealing the cat food). SureFlap.com December 2016/January 2017
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Larry rry The Dog
Photos courtesy of Mandy/"mahwm"
By Ann Brightman
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Animal Wellness
He's
shy, sweet, docile and patient. He’s also a pit bull. Larry The Dog goes against every negative stereotype that surrounds this unfairly maligned breed, and his global popularity is helping people change their attitudes about these dogs. Larry first came into Mandy Rebber’s life five years ago. “He was rescued at just five weeks old from a backyard breeder,” she says. “It was around Christmastime. I walked into the living room, where sat a box wrapped in gold paper. Out popped his little square head, and he instantly stole my heart.” Although Mandy already had a dog, a beagle mix named Boone, she welcomed Larry into the family with open arms. “I quickly realized we not only rescued him, but he rescued us. Boone had severe separation anxiety, but when he met Larry, it instantly changed. Whenever Boone got stressed, Larry would lightly nibble at his neck – and it was like a calming aid. It's like he was saying, "Bro, I got you! You're going to be okay." Since then, Boone hasn't shown any signs of anxiety.” Mandy adds that Larry “doesn’t have an aggressive bone in his body” and is, in fact, quite shy. “It takes him awhile to warm up to people, unless they have a dog. He's just like me – if you have a dog, you've automatically won his heart! He is gentle with everything he does. He loves sharing his toys with his ‘brother’, and will never get mad if Boone steals his favorite bone from him. Larry’s favorite things are rubber duckies, chasing squirrels and cuddling, especially using Booney as a pillow.” Mandy wanted to share Larry’s sweet personality with others, to help them understand that pit bulls aren’t the vicious, unpredictable and dangerous dogs that so many people believe they are. She began posting videos and photos to show everyone how patient, loving and goofy Larry really is. Continued on page 40.
December 2016/January 2017
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Continued from page 39. “I wanted to share with the world the happiness he brings to me and the people around us, and it quickly caught on!” says Mandy. “Larry loves to pose for the camera. He hams it up with his glasses and bowtie, and enjoys stacking treats on his nose with his expert self-control.” Today, Larry has his own website, a social media presence on Facebook and Twitter, and almost half a million followers. You can also find Larry The Dog videos on YouTube. Mandy continues to use his social media presence to help dispel the stigma surrounding pit bulls. “We do it by making people smile with his goofiness!” she says. “We love getting messages on social media from people of all ages, from around the world, telling us how much Larry brightens their day. We have also used his online presence to help raise funds for people and dogs in need.” Larry also makes in-person appearances around his home city of Indianapolis, Indiana. “He has frequented Indy Pit Crew’s Pit Bull Awareness, where he was Grand Marshall last year,” Mandy says. “He has also appeared at the Parade-A-Bull walk and on local radio station WSVX where we openly discussed the issues surrounding breed specific legislation.” Larry is also finishing up his training for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, another step on his journey to prove that pit bulls, when treated right, are well-behaved. A visit to Larry The Dog’s website reveals that this lovable pit bull also has his own line of merchandise. You’ll find everything from Larry-themed T-shirts and tank tops to bowties, necklaces, key chains, sunglasses, a charm bracelet and even an “I Love My Pit Bull” license plate frame. “We wanted to do something to help give back to our local pit bull community, and being able to donate proceeds as well as contribute to raffles with gift baskets was part of that,” Mandy explains. “Most of the pit bull products I found portrayed a ‘harder’ image – cropped ears, spiked collars,
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and so on – and I wanted something softer. I had a hard time trying to find ways to help promote pit bulls in a positive light, so that is what inspired our merchandise.” Larry suffers from allergies, but Mandy has taken dietary steps to help alleviate them – working from the inside out is always the best approach when dealing with skin issues. “He is on a grain-free salmon diet,” she says. “I also use coconut oil in his food to treat his dry skin, and it helps make his coat extra shiny.” One glance at his photos is proof positive that Larry is a calm and happy ‘pitty’. “He brings joy to not only us, but to so many people's lives,” Mandy says. “Whenever I have a bad day, I know I can always count on Larry and Boone to make it better, no matter what. Larry gives great hugs and kisses, too! And have you seen those ears?”
Find
Larry online
larrythedog.com facebook.com/larrythedog twitter.com/larrythedoggy
“Larry
LOVES
to pose for the camera.”
December 2016/January 2017
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This column features comprehensive articles from our Animal Wellness library. AnimalWellnessMagazine.com
It’s important to ensure your dog stays warm and dry when the mercury PLUNGES. Here are 10 TIPS to keep him safe and comfortable.
Winter dog walking
By Tessa Kimmel
B
efore you and your dog set out on your first winter adventure together, remember to think about his well-being. You can bundle up in a cozy coat, gloves and boots, but what about him? Will he be comfortable and safe? The following ten winter walking tips will help both of you enjoy the colder weather, wherever you live.
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Your dog’s breed and coat have an influence on how long he can stay outside in cold, wet or snowy weather. Those with thick double coats such as the Alaskan malamute, Siberian husky and great Pyrenees can withstand being outside in harsh conditions for quite some time before calling it a day. But single-coated breeds such as boxers and greyhounds don’t have an insulating undercoat and can start feeling the cold much sooner. They lose body heat very quickly and are at a higher risk for hypothermia. Single-coated small or toy breeds fare worse still. Their smaller body mass means they lose heat more quickly than larger dogs. On very cold days, it’s best to keep walks short for a small and/or singlecoated dog, or else buy him some protective outerwear (see sidebar opposite).
Older dogs and young puppies don’t retain body heat the way adults in their prime do. They should be brought indoors after about ten minutes. More dogs get lost in winter than in summer. They can become disoriented in blizzards and the falling snow quickly covers the scent of their tracks. Many older dogs have reduced hearing, vision and cognitive function, so it’s best to always keep them on a leash if it’s snowing.
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Ailments such as hypothyroidism reduce a dog’s ability to tolerate cold. Arthritic dogs will also feel more discomfort from damp or cold air, while their limited mobility increases the risk of falling on slippery ground. Dogs with heart
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conditions such as mitral valve disease may suffer a lifethreatening event if overexerted while negotiating difficult walking conditions.
Animal Wellness
A dog of any age should be leashed if you are walking near a frozen pond, river or lake. In his haste to chase the brazen rabbit who dares cross his path, he could dash onto thin ice and fall into the frigid water.
Many dogs love to eat snow. This isn’t an issue in itself, but what’s underneath the snow might be. Although “petfriendly” antifreeze and ice melters now exist, they still contain chemicals that you don’t want your dog consuming. Carefully supervise him when walking near parking lots, driveways and garages, as well as along streets and sidewalks, and don’t let him eat snow or lick ice in these areas.
WINTER WEAR FOR CANINES A great way to protect your dog from the elements is to buy him a coat or snowsuit. Outerwear for dogs has evolved in leaps and bounds over the last number of years as manufacturers recognize that not all breeds can use the same “one size fits all” garments. A Labrador retriever may need an extra layer of warmth on a particularly cold day, but a down-filled snowsuit wouldn’t be the best choice. For a greyhound, a snowsuit is a welcome invention! Not only does it keep his legs and joints warm, but it protects his torso and internal organs as well. Make sure the outerwear you buy is matched to your dog’s specific needs and fits properly. Choose a durable good quality product that’s wind and waterproof but also made from material that breathes. Doggie boots provide traction on slippery surfaces and are a fantastic way to protect sensitive paws. Boots prevent snow from collecting between toes and protect against sharp ice, road salt, wetness and cold. Most dogs will adjust quickly to wearing boots. After a few sessions of the “Lipizzaner stallion dance” they’ll accept the boots and come to learn they make their feet feel good!
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Road salt can burn your dog’s pads and cause significant discomfort. Avoid heavily salted areas, wipe your dog’s feet with a damp cloth when you get home, or invest in a set of dog boots (see sidebar above). The thermometer doesn’t need to drop below freezing for a dog to get chilled. Even cold wind and rain can cause hypothermia in some breeds. Hypothermia is the loss of core body temperature. A temperature even a few degrees lower than 99°F can be life threatening. Shallow breathing, shivering, weakness and lack of coordination are all signs of hypothermia – dogs that have passed the shivering stage are in a critical state and need medical attention immediately. Frostbite is a risk during very cold weather, especially if it’s windy. Frostbite describes skin tissue damaged from exposure to sub-zero temperatures. Signs include swelling, irritation and pale-colored skin. Veterinary treatment is necessary so the tissue can be warmed slowly without causing further damage. Although exposed, a dog’s nose contains many blood vessels and is least likely to get frostbitten. But upright ear tips, paws and even tails can freeze. If the forecast warns of wind chill, be mindful how long your dog remains outside.
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Even the hardiest of breeds can be at risk during really extreme weather. During severe storms, and/or when the thermometer dips below zero Fahrenheit and conditions are at their harshest, keep walks short or stay inside until the weather is more favorable.
As long as you understand your dog’s needs, and respect the elements, you and your canine companion can safely enjoy everything Mother Nature throws at us this winter! December 2016/January 2017
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D gs Cats
From titer testing and better cancer treatment, to pet insurance and the introduction of hemp oil, pet healthcare has improved by leaps and bounds over the last quarter-century.
How pet care has changed in
25 YEARS By Shawn Messonnier, DVM When I started my practice 25 years ago, holistic healing was in its infancy. Since then, I’ve seen many changes in the ways people care for their pets and how a more natural approach is contributing to some of these changes. In this article, I’ll look at five of the most important changes I’ve seen.
that we don’t need to give pets frequent vaccines. Giving unnecessary vaccines increases cost to the pet parent, does nothing to prevent disease, and may harm the pet by damaging the immune system.
When I graduated from veterinary school in 1987, it seemed we employed every available vaccine for all pets that entered our doors. Combatting infectious diseases was (and still is) a very important part of preventive care. Parvoviral infections were still killing many unvaccinated puppies even though the vaccine itself was over ten years old.
In place of vaccines, a simple and inexpensive blood titer test for the most important infectious diseases allows the pet’s body to tell us when it needs booster immunizations. More doctors are offering these inexpensive tests, and a growing number of boarding and grooming facilities accept them in place of traditional vaccines. Adequate titers do not need boosting with another vaccine, whereas healthy pets with low or non-existent titers may benefit from a booster.
While holistic doctors are not against vaccines per se, we are against giving vaccines to pets who do not need them and will not benefit from them. Research over a decade ago confirmed
New research from my colleague Dr. Jean Dodds confirms a practice most holistic doctors have employed for many years: adequate protection against infectious diseases can be achieved
1. REDUCED VACCINE PROTOCOLS
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Animal Wellness
with half-doses of vaccines. This is especially helpful for cats and smaller dogs that are more likely to experience vaccine reactions (did it ever make sense that the amount of vaccine given to a three-pound dog was the exact same dose given to a 150-pound dog?!)
2. BETTER CANCER TESTING AND TREATMENT All doctors have been seeing increased rates of cancer over the last 25 years. And now we’re seeing cancer in younger patients, even those under one year of age! Why is this happening? We live in an increasingly toxic world, and poor breeding coupled with too many vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and bad diets containing by-products and chemicals, damage the DNA. We can only damage a dog or cat’s DNA for so long before it mutates and causes cancer. Reducing cancer risk by feeding better diets, minimizing use of chemicals/vaccines/ drugs, and maximizing the use of healthy supplements all go a long way to reducing the risk of cancer and other immune and infectious diseases. When I first started practicing, I was often asked by my clients if there were any simple tests for early cancer diagnosis. Those tests didn’t exist then, but now, holistic doctors commonly test pets for cancer (looking at specific inflammatory markers) during their annual visits. Testing of dogs in my own practice shows
that over 90% are abnormal! These results require more testing to determine the cause of the abnormalities, along with natural treatments to bring the pet back to health. The good news is that when cancer is discovered at this early stage it is often curable rather than simply treatable! Additionally, regular abdominal ultrasounds, while more expensive than blood testing, can screen breeds prone to certain abdominal cancers (such as larger breeds that are more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma of the spleen and liver). This early intervention lets us diagnose cancer early and save lives. Continued on page 46.
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Continued from page 45. While cancer has become more prevalent, the good news is that we can do so much more for pets with cancer than was possible 25 years ago! While chemotherapy and radiation can be helpful in safely extending the lives of pets with selected cancers, natural therapies given to detoxify dogs and cats and support their immune systems can extend their lives. In my practice, cancer patients live 12 to 24 months (and more) longer than expected based upon a conventional prognosis, and cures are not uncommon when treated aggressively with an integrative approach! The natural approach works for all pets, especially those that wouldn’t respond to conventional treatment or that have owners who can’t afford the thousands of dollars needed to cover the costs of conventional treatments.
3. VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENTATION I’ve been shocked by how many dogs are vitamin D deficient, based on blood testing (about 95% here in North Texas). As in people, low vitamin D levels are linked to many serious diseases; some of these in our canine patients include heart disease, infectious illnesses like dog flu and kennel cough, and of course cancer and other immune dysfunctions. Today, testing and treatment are easy and inexpensive, and supplementation is critical as dogs and cats do not get vitamin D from sunlight.
4. PET INSURANCE As the technology to help pets increases, so does the cost of care. Fortunately, more pet parents are utilizing inexpensive pet insurance to decrease their costs up to 90%, making treatment affordable for most. In my practice, clients who have pet insurance are quick to allow us to help their pets, and don’t have to worry about finding money to cover the cost of care.
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We’ve known for many years that cells have cannabinoid receptors that respond positively when exposed to CBD, yet until recently we haven’t had a legal, high quality supplement to take advantage of these natural receptors.
5. MEDICAL GRADE HEMP OIL A source of CBD, medical grade hemp oil is now available for pets. We’ve known for many years that cells have cannabinoid receptors that respond positively when exposed to CBD, yet until recently we haven’t had a legal, high quality supplement to take advantage of these natural receptors. Many pets with seizures, aging, arthritis, pain and cancer can now be treated with this new natural therapy and many are very responsive to it.
The last 25 years has seen some wonderful improvements in pet care. What do the next 25 years hold? I believe that we’ll soon be able to use a dog or cat’s DNA to determine the best diet and supplements for him, and when medications are needed, we’ll be able to test him to find out which ones are most likely to be effective. Stay tuned and see how integrative healthcare for dogs and cats evolves!
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COPING WITH
CANINE CANINE SEIZURES SEIZURES By Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis
Discover how acupressure and ice can work together to help reduce the severity and duration of seizures in dogs.
S
eizures in dogs are scary, especially when they happen for the first time. A seizuring dog gets a glassy look in his eyes, then falls on his side and begins to paddle uncontrollably. If your dog ever has a seizure, the first step is a prompt trip to the veterinarian to determine the cause. Once he’s been diagnosed and a treatment or management plan has been put in place, a simple acupressure technique you can do at home may help reduce the severity and length of your dog’s seizure episodes, should they occur again.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SEIZURES Causes: Seizures have many possible causes, which is why it’s so important to see a vet. Genetics, exposure to toxins, distemper, kidney or liver disease, bug bites, hormonal imbalances, age-
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related factors, insufficient electrolytes, “hyper” or “hypo” conditions, Lyme disease, abnormal brain development or brain damage are some conditions that can trigger seizures in a dog. However, many canine seizure disorders are considered “idiopathic” (of unknown origin) in nature. Whatever the cause, seizures involve a misfiring of neurons, most often in the cerebrum of the brain. There appears to be a chemical imbalance of neurotransmitters. Seizures cover the entire spectrum from mild to severe in strength, duration and frequency.
Signs and symptoms: Josh was at the park with Pebbles, his recently-rescued, one-year-old beagle, when the dog started to stumble and salivate. He knew something was wrong and
immediately took Pebbles to a soft grassy area before the little dog fell over, lost control of his bowels and bladder, and began involuntarily twitching. Pebbles had progressed into a grand mal seizure that lasted about 70 seconds, after which it took about an hour for him to recover completely. As far as Josh knew, this was the first time Pebbles had seized and it frightened him. Luckily, he had transported the beagle to an area free of any hard objects that could have caused further damage. He subsequently took Pebbles to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Several common indicators signal an imminent seizure. The dog may appear confused, disoriented or frightened, may possibly be ataxic, demand attention, experience muscle contractions, salivate excessively, and lose urinary and/or bowel control. Unlike humans, dogs rarely, if ever, aspirate or swallow their tongues during a seizure. They tend to seem dazed, clamp their jaws, salivate, and twitch or paddle in the air. Some dogs have difficulty breathing, experience low blood pressure and a weak pulse, and may “faint” rather than experiencing a typical seizure. The duration of a seizure is usually 30 to 100 seconds. In extreme cases, the dog may have multiple, repetitive, severe seizures in quick succession, which can result in death.
Again, your veterinarian can help you sort out the issues related to your dog’s particular condition. Follow his/her recommendations. In addition to regular veterinary care, you can take the following step to support your dog’s health even while he is on medication.
ACUPRESSURE AND ICE Thousands of years of clinical observation by Chinese doctors have shown that specific acupressure points on both the human and canine body can have a beneficial effect on health when stimulated. An acupoint on the nape of the neck called Governing Vessel 14 (GV 14, or Du 14 in Chinese) can help resolve the internal Wind and Heat associated with seizures (see sidebar on page 50). For the Liver to regain its ability to provide the body with a harmonious flow of chi, Wind and Heat need to be dispelled. Continued on page 50.
December 2016/January 2017
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SEIZURES
FROM A TCM PERSPECTIVE
When your dog is seizuring, the involuntary movement of his body and limbs can be likened to a tree being blown by a furiously strong wind. In Chinese medicine, a seizure disorder is characterized as “Internal Wind Heat” because it looks a lot like wind blowing and lashing around inside the body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Liver organ system is responsible for the harmonious flow of life-promoting energy called “chi”. The Liver is highly vulnerable to the invasion of Wind. It is thought that when Wind invades the body, Liver chi is disrupted and the body can succumb to internal chaos in the form of a seizure. Seizures are considered Hot in nature; the ancient Chinese knew that a strong Wind creates Heat. This type of Heat rising in the body can endanger the brain, leading to loss of consciousness and actually “burning” its neurological connections.
Continued from page 49. Recent studies by TCM practitioners have shown that placing an ice pack directly on Governing Vessel 14 (GV 14) at the onset of a seizure can reduce the duration and severity of an episode. They suggest that ice can also minimize the frequency of seizures. So if your own dog is prone to seizures, placing an ice pack on GV 14 (see chart for the acupoint’s location) can help avoid a seizure entirely, or at least reduce its strength and length.
Safet y t i p
When your dog has a seizure, STAY CALM and keep your hands away from his mouth. Because dogs often clench their jaws during a seizure, he could UNINTENTIONALLY bite you. This technique of combining an acupressure point with the application of ice has another advantage. It can help reduce the quantity of medication needed to control the frequency of your dog’s seizures; too much medication can negatively affect his quality of life. When a dog experiences seizures, the goal is to find the best way to restore his health and well-being. By working with your veterinarian while using this ice and acupressure method, you can bring the best of both worlds to the management of your dog’s condition.
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December 2016/January 2017
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warm & fuzzy
OF DINKS & DROODS By Justine O'Keefe
Back
in the 1980s, we were DINKS – a married couple with a double income and no kids. We worked at our careers, saved money, made sound real estate deals, and went on spa vacations and spiritual retreats. As retirees, we no longer qualify for DINK status. A more appropriate acronym might be DROODS – double retirees, one old dog. We dote on One Old Dog, a much-loved arthritic golden retriever with bum knees, allergies, and enough hair to make a toupee for every bald guy in town. When OOD blew out the ACLs on both knees, he needed two surgeries; and $4,000 later, we had a dog with functioning knees and a severe case of PTSD. The routine trips to the vet caused his blood pressure to skyrocket and the whites of his eyes to turn a lurid red. Mild-mannered to the point of semiconsciousness while at home, at the vet’s office he screamed
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and thrashed, knocked hypodermic needles across the room, and shed a veritable blizzard of hair. Life for OOD took a further downturn when we replaced the worn carpet in our basement office with a hardwood floor, not realizing at the time how difficult it would be for him to walk on. The first time One Old Dog stepped onto its gleaming surface, he did a belly flop, all four legs splayed out, two east, two west. He lay trembling and humiliated, his wagging tail signaling for help. We hauled up his heavy hindquarters, but unable to gain purchase on the smooth floor, his front legs slipped out from under him. Using a variety of runners and mats, we created a path along which OOD could safely traverse the floor's slick surface, but he remained uneasy and dispirited. In the weeks that followed, One Old Dog sank deeper and deeper into decrepitude. He slept most of the time, couldn't Continued on page 54.
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Continued from page 52. get up without help, and fell whenever he ventured onto the kitchen tiles. His toys languished unused in their box and we, his devoted DROODS, prepared ourselves for his imminent demise. Before that sad event transpired, however, One Old Dog's guardian angel appeared in the form of a house call vet named Angela. She arrived one afternoon wearing doggie-printed scrubs and toting an iPad. OOD, always pleased to have company, livened up enough to show her his latest stuffed animal and to coat her black jeans with a generous amount of blond hair. There followed a thorough examination and discussion of OOD’s various fat deposits, warts, runny eyes, and other signs of old age. I told Angela that we were unwilling to subject OOD to the stress of any more invasive procedures. Our goal was to make him feel safe and comfortable, not to prolong his life for our own benefit. She suggested several ways to ease OOD’s arthritis and improve his joint function, and I purchased fish oil, chondroitin chews, and seborrhea mousse for his allergies. Days later, I received an email from Angela with a link to a company that sells non-slip doggie socks. A week later, two tiny black socks arrived in the mail. They give OOD traction on
slippery floors, but are tricky to work onto his pointy back feet and need to be removed each time he heads outside. No strangers to high maintenance, we DROODS perform this onand-off routine several times a day. In addition to his morning dose of arthritis medicine, One Old Dog now receives two scoops of fish oil with his dog food and cooked vegetables. We use the chondroitin chews for treats during the daily walks that keep him ambulatory. Once a week, I groom OOD in the basement utility room, working the rake through his thick undercoat, cleaning his ears, wiping his eyes and rubbing seborrhea mousse into his freshly brushed coat. At the end of the session, OOD's fur is fluffed and gleaming, his face clean and his eyes bright. Having implemented Angela’s suggestions, we DROODS have seen a marked improvement in One Old Dog's health. He now gets off the floor without falling and is in less discomfort. He looks better, too, if one ignores his fat deposits and doggy breath. The ongoing expenses incurred by OOD's new health regimen are considerable, but as former DINKS, we can afford it. Either way, they are a small price to pay to keep our old boy healthy and happy.
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product picks Clear up his ears Chronic ear infections are
common in dogs. ZYMOX Enzymatic Ear Solution is highly effective for aiding in the treatment of bacterial, fungal and yeast infections including Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Proteus and Malassezia. It works with the body to react with pus and debris to kill infectious microorganisms. It requires no cleaning before and during use, so enzyme activity is not disrupted. $27.99
Zymox.com/zymox-ear-care
For
active dogs
The Active Harness is a sturdy, padded harness for dogs on the move. It’s easy to put on and comfortable to wear. The adjustable collar and chest strap ensure a comfortable fit while the efficient 3M reflectors improve visibility in the dark. The Active Harness can also be used as a safety harness in the car, making this the perfect gift for your four-legged friend this holiday season. Order through the Animal Wellness Market:
AnimalWellnessMarket.com
Remove odor the
right way
We love our pets, but occasionally, they can get a bit stinky. You can eliminate the smell of urine, feces and skunk from your pets, their bedding, even your home and vehicle with NokOut Odour Eliminator. It’s non-toxic, scent-free, and 100% biodegradable. NokOut is available as a Pet Shampoo, Odour Removal Spray, and now a convenient two-in-one Skunk Odour Removal Kit. $10.95 to $79.95
NokOut.ca
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EssiacForPets.com
December 2016/January 2017
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When Kevin and Misti Horton decided to vacation on the island of Koh Mak two years ago, they never expected their trip would lead to the construction of a veterinary clinic. But that’s exactly what happened. As of this writing, the Koh Mak Animal Care Center is ready to open its doors to veterinarians who want to volunteer time to help the island’s animals while enjoying a tropical getaway.
Veterinary
care comes to
By Kathryn Jastrow Davis
Koh Mak
An island paradise with a tragic side
This grassroots volunteer effort is bringing desperately-needed veterinary services to a tropical island off the coast of Thailand.
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Koh Mak lies just off the coast of Thailand. It’s easily accessible by ferry or motorboat, and its breathtaking scenery is a popular attraction for travelers. Though it’s a tropical paradise, Misti and Kevin soon discovered it has a dark side in the form of many homeless and starving animals. “At one point I was feeding eight dogs and several cats and kittens every day,” Misti says. Without enough to eat, these dogs and cats suffer from weakened immune systems that can lead to potentially life-threatening diseases like sarcoptic mange, which is rampant among Koh Mak’s dogs. “The dogs also often get hit by cars and have nobody to go to,” Misti adds. “They just end up with broken hips or legs and have to learn to live with these injuries for the rest of their lives.” Homeless dogs and cats are a huge problem throughout Asia, and groups such as Soi Dog are already overwhelmed, working in more heavily populated areas such Bangkok and Phuket. Unfortunately, these organizations are not reaching beyond major cities, and places like Koh Mak are left without much help. The homeless dog and cat population continues to grow in these regions, and so does the suffering.
An idea become reality Kevin and Misti knew that Koh Mak desperately needed a vet clinic, but didn’t know how to make it happen. Then serendipity stepped in to lend a hand. A year ago, Kevin met Dr. Laia Blanco, a veterinarian with a practice in London, England. He talked to her about Koh Mak’s dilemma, and her enthusiastic advice and support turned out to be invaluable. Then came a generous donation of property on the island, with a serene ocean view. As a builder, Kevin had the skills necessary to turn the concept into a plan, and island residents and visitors jumped at the chance to help. Every bit of construction material was donated, from concrete blocks to electrical and plumbing supplies. In fact, the entire project was constructed by volunteers, under Kevin’s careful supervision.
Funding for the clinic has come from a variety of sources. Cash donations are made by visitors to the island, local community fundraisers have helped, and a Paypal account shared through Facebook has resulted in donations from around the world. “We also set up a crowdfunding page at Generosity/Indiegogo,” says Kevin. “There’s no overhead on this project, so everything goes to materials.” Even medical supplies are being donated, after Dr. Blanco put out the word to her associates. “Some folks came down from London on Boxing Day of 2015 and brought donations so we’ve got a large bag of surgical equipment, retractors, scissors, clamps and everything else, as well as suture material,” Kevin says. The Koh Mak Animal Care Center was set to open at the end of 2016, but a large surprise donation received in August enabled Kevin to cover the cost of finishing the building and getting the clinic ready ahead of time. As of this writing, the center is set to open its doors on December 1. The facility includes comfortable accommodations for volunteers to stay for free; in exchange, the vets will provide the island’s animal population with muchneeded veterinary services.
The world takes notice Support and advice for the Koh Mak Animal Care Center has come from as far away as the North Sea, and veterinarians are already lining up to volunteer. Veterinarian Dr. Pauline Gunther is among them. She runs a clinic in northern Germany and has been to the island many times. “I was very happy to hear of the clinic,” she says. “I love Kevin for the optimism he has.” Interest in the project is also growing in the US. Dr. Tracy Huang is a California veterinarian who spent much of her childhood in Thailand, and has volunteered with Soi Dog in the past. "I have organized field clinics in underserved regions such as Nicaragua, and also have a personal interest in animal welfare work in Thailand."
Future veterinarian and Tennessee State University student Beth Ann Molesky has already started planning her trip to Koh Mak. “I want to volunteer because of the new experiences it will bring me, with the animals and a different culture. I’ll be helping out where I’m needed.” “I think I know a lot of people who would take advantage of this opportunity,” adds Dr. Karl E. Jandrey of the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. “Veterinarians really care enough to ensure their work has impact. It’s a winwin situation when you can combine some volunteerism with a travel opportunity.”
Bringing out the best in people Kevin and Misti say that building a veterinary clinic on Koh Mak has brought out the best in people. To recognize and thank those who have helped with the project, Kevin is having an image of a Bodhi Tree, known in Buddhism as a Wisdom Tree, placed on the front wall. “Each leaf will have the name of everybody who has helped.” It’s a fitting gesture, especially as the Buddhist monks on the island already know Kevin by name. They’re excited to see the clinic open because island residents often leave sick or injured animals with them, even though the monks have no medical knowledge, facilities, medications nor equipment to deal with them. It’s hoped that the Koh Mak Animal Care Center will become a model for more of its kind. Given the interest and support this clinic has already sparked, the idea may inspire others to do the same, potentially saving many more lives in regions of the world where animals are in desperate need of proper care. To learn more, visit facebook.com/KohMakAnimalCare or generosity.com/animal-pet-fundraising/build-a-vet-clinic-on-aremote-island-in-thailand.
Left: The clinic is nearing completion. Updates are frequently posted online. Right: Kevin Horton with a map of Koh Mak.
December 2016/January 2017
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D gs Cats
Homeopathy for pet cancer
Homeopathy offers a gentle approach to cancer in dogs and cats. It doesn’t just treat the condition, but the patient as a whole. By Sarah Stieg, DVM, MRCVS, Lisa Melling, DVM, CVH, and Todd Cooney, DVM, CVH
C
ancer is dreaded by pet owners and veterinarians alike. Allopathic treatment doesn’t result in a cure, but rather the destruction of the tumor and related cells through radiation, chemotherapy or surgery. These treatments can cause side effects, which require additional drug therapy to manage. Conventional cancer treatment most often leads to temporary remission. Homeopathy, conversely, offers a gentle approach to cancer, treating not just the lesion or condition, but the patient as a whole. General well-being is first restored while the cancerous condition is being abated or resolved, and is followed by a return of good health. This article will discuss the principles of homeopathy in the treatment of cancer and why it is a good alternative to the allopathic approach.
CONSIDERING THE WHOLE BODY The allopathic approach to cancer is to identify the lesion, assess the body system/s affected, and then stage the cancer. The homeopathic approach views the patient as one disease, comprised of his totality of symptoms – mental, emotional and physical. Functional changes or lesions, such as fibrosis and tumor growth, are merely one aspect of the patient’s disease.
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While allopathic nomenclature may be helpful in understanding a clinical situation, general disease labels are not needed to find an accurate prescription in homeopathy since they do not describe what is unique to the individual patient. For example, “lymphoma” describes a disease condition, but does not give us any details about the individual case. In order to identify the precise homeopathic remedy needed to treat the patient, out of all the homeopathic remedies that treat this type of disease process (i.e. lymphoma), the practitioner needs to examine what makes this patient unique. Once the homeopathic remedy is administered, the patient’s response is closely monitored. The remedy stimulates the recovery of health over the time necessary for the body to repair damaged tissues. This can take weeks to months, depending on how long the total illness (not merely the cancer) has been present.
THREE POSSIBLE OUTCOMES Any treatment, homeopathic or allopathic, can result in three possible outcomes: palliation, suppression or cure. It is
important to understand how these differ, and how to interpret patient response post-prescription.
1
alliation is the most common outcome of allopathic treatment, and P is seen as a rapid response or alleviation of some, but not all, physical symptoms. A hallmark of palliation is a quick return of symptoms when treatment is stopped, requiring more frequent repetitions of medicine in higher doses to maintain any “improvement”. The benefits of palliation with homeopathy, in cases where a curative remedy cannot be found, is the gentleness of this medicine when compared to the immuno-suppressive doses of prednisone often used in allopathic palliation.
2 3
omeopathic practitioners view suppression as the worst H possible outcome of medicine or surgery. This is because the patient’s well-being is not enhanced, and while some symptoms or lesions disappear, there is no improvement of mental/emotional aspects. After a period of time, a new and more severe set of symptoms will result; for example, metastasis to the lungs or heart base following surgical excision of a hemangiosarcoma lesion from the spleen. he goal of all homeopathic treatment is to cure the patient by T returning the body to health. This is characterized by increased overall well-being, with physiological resistance to disease. The mental/emotional sphere will improve first, followed by the resolution of physical symptoms. For instance, a cat with mesenteric lymphoma will have more energy and improved appetite soon after the remedy is administered, while the gastrointestinal symptoms diminish over time.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS Unlike allopathic treatments for cancer that use multiple drugs at one time, a homeopathic veterinarian will only prescribe a single dose of a remedy. To decide which remedy to use, the homeopath will create a list of the patient’s current symptoms in combination with his entire health history. Therefore, it is possible to have five lymphoma patients all receiving different remedies because their symptom pictures vary, even though allopathic treatment would use the same chemotherapy protocol. Continued on page 60.
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It is possible to have five lymphoma patients all receiving different homeopathic remedies because their symptom pictures vary, even though allopathic treatment would use the same chemotherapy protocol. Continued from page 59. Homeopathic treatment aims to cure the patient and have the cancer completely resolve, without causing harmful side effects or requiring repeated medication. In cases where the destruction of the cancer pathology is too advanced to affect a true cure – i.e. full restoration of health – homeopathic treatment when prescribed in a curative manner can still provide a gentle approach to alleviating symptoms and improving vitality and quality of life. The case study with this article demonstrates how the homeopathic treatment of cancer successfully returned a dog to health and gave him increased quality of life without surgery, chemo or harmful side effects.
By Lisa Melling, DVM, CVH Howie, a ten-year-old neutered Shih tzu, presented for in-home euthanasia on October 26, 2012. He had received a tentative diagnosis of leukemia, along with a splenic mass, anemia, and proteinlosing nephropathy. Blood test values demonstrated severe leukocytosis, non-regenerative anemia, and thrombocytopenia. At the euthanasia appointment, the owner asked if there were any other treatment options available, and homeopathic treatment was offered. On exam, Howie was weak and hypothermic at 97.4°F. His mucus membranes were pale and dry, and there was palpable splenomegaly in his abdomen. The homeopathic remedy Phosphorus was selected because of its reputation for the treatment of hemorrhagic conditions, cancerous affections and albuminuria. Phosphorus is best suited to patients suffering from anemia and cancers that bleed profusely. It’s also important that the remedy match the changes in mental symptoms that occur in sickness. When Howie was well, he was an outgoing sociable dog. When he became ill, he was timid, anxious and weak. He also had a history of thunderstorm anxiety. All these symptoms made him an excellent match to Phosphorus, and a single dose of 30c was administered. The owner was also given instructions to prepare a balanced fresh food diet to replace Howie’s processed dog food. • Five days after Howie was given the remedy, his owner called to say he’d gradually improved and was exhibiting signs of more normal behavior.
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• An exam and diagnostics the following week found a feisty dog with a normal temperature and white blood cell values that were also approaching normal. • Three weeks later, another exam revealed a bright, energetic dog with light pink mucus membranes. His owner reported he was eating well and even had to be cautioned that he was looking overweight. Howie’s white blood cell values were within normal limits, his red blood cell numbers were climbing toward the normal range, and the proteinuria had resolved. • One month after his first dose of Phosphorus 30c, Howie’s white blood cell values were normal, but he still had a mild, regenerative anemia. • Three months after his initial prescription, his splenomegaly was no longer palpable. • From 2012 to 2014, Howie was re-evaluated every three to six months and found to be in good health. His blood and urine were monitored regularly, and a second dose of Phosphorus 30c was administered in November of 2012 to address the persisting anemia. • By January of 2013, the splenomegaly was still no longer palpable and Howie’s mucus membranes were pink. • In March, Phosphorus 200c was administered to address the persisting, mild anemia. • One month later, his red blood cell value had risen to just below the normal range. At this point, it was decided that no further Phosphorus was needed, as Howie showed no return of the leukemia, splenomegaly or proteinlosing nephropathy. With the help of homeopathic treatment, Howie lived a healthy life until he passed away peacefully in September of 2014.
First aid and safety quiz for dogs By Lisa Wagner
WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG SUFFERED A HEALTH EMERGENCY? SEE IF YOU CAN ANSWER THESE FIVE QUESTIONS CORRECTLY.
z, stion first aid and safety qui and safety with our five-que lth hea dog of dge wle Test your kno from a ure wound on his leg Your dog has a punct r’s cat. You should: scuffle with the neighbo
1
Pour saline on it.
A
l your veterinarian. Clean it with soap and cal age on it. C Put an adhesive band own. D Leave it to heal on its B
you for a winter walk. When You take your dog out ms she is shivering and see get home, you notice uld: quite lethargic. You sho perature. A Check her rectal tem wrap her in a blanket. B Turn up the heat and you are if she doesn’t improve or C Call your veterinarian concerned.
2 D
All of the above. and ur bathroom cupboard Your dog broke into yo r he aners, pills, etc. You fea made a mess of your cle uld: ing poisonous. You sho may have eaten someth
3 A B C D
drink. Give him a lot of milk to nter. Contact a Pet Poison Ce Induce vomiting immed Wait to see if he shows
for the answers. and check the next page
t her fall and you need to ge Your dog is injured in a ort her, immediately. To transp to the veterinary clinic you should:
4
. Let her jump into your car her and a flat surface, secure B Gently place her on e. transport to veterinary car vet clinic. C Have her walk to the her. D Pick her up and carry
A
5
mer t for a walk on a warm sum You and your dog go ou nting me, you notice he is pa day. On your return ho ; you and has brick red gums heavily, acting lethargic t stroke. You should: think he might have hea
vice. Go online to look for ad e ice bath. B Give him an immediat ounts of sun, offer him small am C Keep him out of the the tub ay him or place him in cool drinking water, spr ll your t ice cold) water. Ca (head up) in cool (no veterinarian. ’ll be fine shortly. D Not worry about it, he
A
iately.
signs of sickness. December 2016/January 2017
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1. B Clean it with soap and call your veterinarian. It’s important to clean puncture wounds immediately to reduce the likelihood of infection. While you may not require a trip to the vet clinic, be sure to contact them to confirm. You will need to keep the wound clean, and monitor it for redness, inflammation, heat and/or pus (signs of infection). Infections can be deadly, so it’s important to prevent them. 2. D All of the above If you are ever concerned that your dog may be suffering from hypothermia (an abnormally low body temperature that is potentially fatal) please act quickly. Contact a vet immediately. Take your dog’s rectal temperature (normal is about 101°F or 38.5°C). Warm her up by increasing the room heat and wrapping her in a blanket. Also use your own body heat if you can. 3. B Contact a Pet Poison Center It’s incredibly important that you receive professional assistance in this possible poison scenario, since different toxins require different pet first aid protocols. Two excellent resources are the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 and ASPCA Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435. For a fee, a trained professional will assess your dog’s situation and provide treatment advice.
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4. B Gently place her on a flat surface, secure her and transport to veterinary care. In any type of serious accident, including falls, it’s important to consider possible head and spinal injuries in addition to any other obvious visible injury. To be on the safe side, support your dog’s neck and spine, while gently transferring her onto a flat surface. For small dogs, cutting boards or the lid of a large Rubbermaid storage bin work well. For larger dogs, an ironing board can do the trick. Don’t forget to secure her to your makeshift spine board to keep her from falling off by wrapping something around her (tensor rolls work well). 5. C Keep him out of the sun, offer him small amounts of cool drinking water, spray him or place him in the tub (head up) in cool (not ice cold) water. Call your veterinarian. Heat stroke is a very serious pet first aid emergency and should be treated as such. If a dog is not quickly cooled, he may start vomiting, collapse, and ultimately die. Your quick action can literally be lifesaving! Important notes: do not offer drinking water if the dog is unconscious, and remember to stop the cooling process when his rectal temperature is above 101°F or 38.5°C. Do not skip the veterinary phone call; there may be internal damage that you don’t see.
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COMMUNICATORS
INTEGRATIVE VETS Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 Ballantrae Animal Hospital Margaret Hacking, DVM Stouffville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 640-6809 Website: www.AnimalWellnessCentre.com Beechmount Animal Hospital Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 888-6590 Website: www.beechmountanhosp.ca Dr. Lisa Burgess Millgrove Veterinary Services Millgrove, ON Canada Phone: (905) 690-4557 Email: service@burgessvet.com Website: www.millgrovevet.com Sharon R. Doolittle, DVM, Inc. Smithfield, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Email: vetinfo@holisticanimalvet.com Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com
Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Fayetteville, NY USA Phone: (315) 329-0116 Email: angelwhispurr@gmail.com Website: www.angelwhispurr.com
Dr. Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND and Dr. Sasan Haghighat (Hyatt), DVM, CVA North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: holisticveterinarian@gmail.com Website: www.holistic-vet.ca
Shirley Scott Pet Psychic & Clairvoyant Imnaha, OR USA Phone: (541) 577-3051 Email: sscott@shirley-scott.com Website: www.shirley-scott.com
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Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care • Acupuncture • Chiropractic •Conventional Medicine •Therapeutic Nutrition •Traditional Chinese Medicine Guelph, Ontario, Canada (519)836-2782 www.GuelphVet.com info@GuelphVet.com Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Hawks Prairie Veterinary Hospital Lacey, WA USA Phone: (360) 459-6556 Email: hawksprairievet@yahoo.com Website: www.hawksprairieveterinaryhospital.com Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643 Home Vet Weston, CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com
Lydia Hiby Mysticviz Burbank, CA USA Phone: (818)-244-0091 Website: www.lydiahiby.com Lynn McKenzie Animal Energy Sedona, AZ USA Phone: (512) 827-0505 x 8642 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Website: www.animalenergy.com
Dr. Caroline Goulard, DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP Paws on the Go Laguna Woods, CA USA Phone: (949) 707-1696 Email: cgoulard@pawsonthego.net Website: www.pawsonthego.net
Carrie Hutchinson, VMD Rockledge Veterinary Clinic Rockledge, PA USA Phone: (215) 379-1677 Email: info@rockledgevet.com Website: www.rockledgevet.com
Essex Animal Hospital Essex, ON CAN Phone: (519) 776-7325 Email: info@essexanimalhospital.ca Website: www.essexanimalhospital.ca Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com
Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca
communicators • integrative vets • natural products • pet psychic 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
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
SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION PetMassage, Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Toll Free: (800) 779-1001 Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.co Treetops Rocklyn Limited Alliston, ON Canada Toll Free: (866) 919-8733 Phone: (705) 735-6174 Email: info@treetops.on.ca Website: www.treetopsweb.com
PET PSYCHIC
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
Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians gg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com
REIKI THERAPY Aileen D’Angelo, RMT, Cn. TPM Hoof, Paw & Claw Reiki Northboro, MA USA Phone: (508) 393-3684 Email: hoofpawclaw@verizon.net Website: www.reikiforcritters.com
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
Amy Pikalek Hikari Natural Healing Madison, WI USA Phone: (608) 886-8778 Email: hikarihealing@yahoo.com Website: www.hikarihealing.com
Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide
1-866-764-1212
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
December 2016/January 2017
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ibetan singing bowl therapy D gs Cats
By Chandana Banerjee
Tibetan singing bowl therapy – healing vibrations for your pet
If you’ve never heard Tibetan singing bowls, you’re in for a treat, and so is your dog or cat. This unique modality uses sound therapy to help and .
heal
Sound can have a profound impact on our well-being, and that of our dogs and cats. Play some calming music or gentle nature sounds and you and your pet will soon feel calm and relaxed. Sound can also be used to help heal. Tibetan singing bowl therapy is a unique modality that utilizes sound for healing purposes, and it’s especially effective for animals.
WHAT ARE SINGING BOWLS? Tibetan singing bowls are handcrafted from a seven-metal alloy. While they’re being beaten into shape, a set of sacred mantras are chanted; these are believed to infuse the bowls with further healing power. When you gently strike a singing bowl with a mallet and then rub the rim of the bowl in a circular motion, you create vibrational sound harmonics that have a positive effect on the sympathetic nervous system. It’s believed that Tibetan singing bowl therapy originated during the time of Sakyamuni Buddha; Buddhist monks have used it ever since as part of their meditation practice.
HARMONICS FOR HEALING Tibetan singing bowl therapy helps reduce stress, alter consciousness and create a deep sense of peace and well-being. “These vibrations engage the relaxation reflex, slow down the respiratory, brain and heart rate, and disrupt the pain reflex, creating a deep sense of well-being,” says Diane Mandle, a certified Tibetan singing bowl therapist who runs the Tibetan School of Sound Healing in Encinitas, California, and has authored over 20 books on the subject. “Sound has also been shown to be a vital part of the healing process, and for pain relief management,” she adds. Diane explains that sound tools like singing bowls entrain the brain to move into deeper alpha and theta brain wave frequencies,
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calm
which induce deep meditative and peaceful states, clarity of mind and intuition. “Modern medicine can now measure and confirm the practice of sound as a means to promote healing.” While sound healing helps both people and animals, therapists believe animals especially benefit from it because they can hear and respond to many more harmonics created by the bowls than we can. Singing bowl therapists use bowls with lower tones for animals because they hear many more overtones than humans do, and sounds with higher frequencies annoy or agitate them.
WHAT IS A SINGING BOWL THERAPY SESSION LIKE? Most sound healing therapists work intuitively. Garnering the trust of the animal being healed is at the core of any session, which is why no two sessions are alike.
Tibetan singing bowls to the rescue
Lambert and Mishti are two mixed breed dogs who live together with their “pet parent”. Distracted by the smallest of sounds in their neighborhood and often in discomfort because of certain health issues, they barked and yipped through the day and even the night. They were easily triggered by each other and were hyperactive all the time. After experiencing five sessions of Tibetan singing bowl therapy, each lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, Lambert and Mishti have become much calmer and more affectionate. They sleep better and aren’t distracted by the sounds around them. “Their skin and ear issues have also cleared up,” says “mom” Rijuta Gautam, who after attending the sessions with her dogs also found ease from her own leg pain. Lara, meanwhile, is a 14-year-old Labrador retriever with arthritis who found relief from her pain and slept better after Tibetan singing bowl therapy. “I could see Lara’s body relaxing as I played the bowls for her in four 20-minute sessions spread over a week,” says Almas.
y Tibetan singing bowl thera Almas, who specializes in Tibetan singing bowl therapy, works with Lara, a Lab with arthritis.
Photo courtesy of Almas Lokhandwala
“I start by setting up my bowls and then have the owner bring the animal to the room for an introduction,” says Michelle Marie Sawtell, a sound and energy healer from Cambridge, Massachusetts, who has used both Tibetan and crystal singing bowls to help heal pets. “I allow the animal to come to me; nothing is ever forced. Once we establish a connection and feel comfortable, I gently start playing the bowls. When the animal begins to feel the vibrations, he often lies down and falls asleep.” “Animals react so intuitively to sound healing, and you can see them let go of that coiled-up stress and stretch out into deep slumber,” agrees Almas Lokhandwala, a holistic healer from Pune, India who specializes in Tibetan singing bowl therapy. The way a healer plays the bowls will depend on the situation or issue that needs to be addressed. “If an animal is depressed or transitioning, then different patterns will be used than if he’s skittish or recovering from abuse,” says Diane.
SINGING BOWL THERAPY FOR AGGRESSION In animals, negative behaviors such as aggression, are often based on triggers. Diane says that singing bowls can help erase these triggers and create new behavior patterns in an animal. “They provide an interface that helps neutralize the triggers so new behaviors can be learned,” she says. While it can take several sessions spread over weeks and months to help an animal let go of aggression, it does work. Michelle Marie shares the story of a ten-year-old rescue Chihuahua/ rat terrier mix who was aggressive with strangers and children. He not only barked uncontrollably and had bitten a few people, but he also suffered from pain in the right paw. “Since we began treatments, he is much more relaxed when engaging with strangers, and he no longer needs pain medication,” says Michelle Marie.
Integrative veterinarian Dr. Anne Smith, who has also trained in Tibetan singing bowl therapy, saw a friend’s selectively aggressive pitbull/Lab cross become calmer after just a few sessions of sound healing. Formerly, he would take a whole day to calm down after his aggression was triggered, but now he “comes back” within minutes, according to Dr. Smith. “My friend had been working with him for over two years, but the inroads the bowls made on his aggression are beyond words!”
Finding a Tibetan singing bowl therapist
Because Tibetan singing bowl therapy isn’t as common as many other alternative modalities, you’ll probably have to do some searching to find a therapist near you. Be sure to check the therapist’s credentials and find out where they trained. If you can’t find anyone nearby, you can buy CDs of Tibetan singing bowls at Amazon.com or learn how to do the therapy yourself. Diane’s school (tibetanbowlschool.com) offers a certification program and includes distance learning options.
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Bonnie -Jill
LAFLIN By Kyle Dupont
This model, sportscaster and TV personality is also an active animal advocate and rescuer.
Life
is never boring when you’re Bonnie-Jill Laflin, and that’s the way she likes it. Not only is she a model, television personality and sportscaster, but she has worked as an actress, as the first and only female NBA scout for the Los Angeles Lakers, and a member of the world famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She’s also an avid animal lover and rescuer, and has been since childhood. Bonnie-Jill’s passion for animals started as a child, when her family rescued their first dog from a shelter. Goldrush, a Shetland sheepdog, was the first of many rescue animals, including dogs, cats and horses, that her family took in as Bonnie-Jill grew up. “I used to find stray dogs all the time and would bring them home until we found a home for them,” she says. “So you could say my love for dogs or any animal started right out of the womb.” Today, Bonnie-Jill is the proud “mom” of five rescue animals – two dogs and three cats – whom she likes to call her “fur kids”. “I rescued Jaclyn Chan from the dog meat trade in China, and rescued Jo Montana while hosting the Puppy Bowl in San
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Francisco,” she explains. “I also foster when pups need a place until finding their forever homes. I just can’t imagine my life without them.” Bonnie-Jill is as passionate about supporting our troops as she is about animal welfare, so she combined the two to form her own non-profit, Hounds and Heroes (houndsandheroes. com), which rescues dogs from various shelters and pairs them with wounded warriors as therapy dogs. This national organization is dedicated to lifting the spirits and morale of active, wounded and veteran military troops worldwide, while saving the lives of dogs through awareness, rescue, foster and adoption. “Everyone knows how therapeutic dogs can be,” says BonnieJill. “Having a dog can lift your mood, bring out feelings of love, or help you feel less stressed. Dogs help people feel better by providing companionship. So having a therapy dog can really assist veterans struggling with symptoms of PTSD or depression. The suicide rate for veterans is at an all-time high, and these dogs can help reduce this tragedy. Continued on page 70.
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Bonnie-Jill is the brainchild of Hounds and Heroes, a non-profit that rescues shelter dogs like these and pairs them with military veterans.
Continued from page 68. “At the same time, we are able to provide forever homes for rescue dogs,” she continues. “Each dog essentially becomes a member of a veteran’s ‘team’, and they support each other much like members of a military team do. I always say it’s a win-win. Needy shelter dogs receive a second chance at life, and our returning troops receive a second chance at health and happiness. The bonds of friendship formed between people and dogs have the power to ease the suffering of these veterans after they return home from war.” Bonnie-Jill has herself completed 18 USO tours in the past decade, including six trips to Afghanistan and Iraq where she entertained and visited with the troops. She says Hounds and Heroes is a way to express gratitude to the men and women who sacrifice so much to protect their country. Another big role of Hounds and Heroes is education, which Bonnie-Jill believes is one of the most powerful tools for raising awareness of animal welfare issues, especially when trying to reach younger generations. “Animals don't have a voice so we must be that voice,” she says. “I believe every creature with a will to live has a right to live, free of pain and suffering. All animals have the capacity to suffer the same way and to the same degree that humans do. They feel pain, pleasure, fear, frustration, loneliness and love." Bonnie-Jill says her personal success has helped provide her with a podium to educate people about animal welfare. “In the world of social media, having a platform can really help educate people on so many issues,” she says. “I believe social media should be used for more than just promoting yourself. I have been fortunate to have a nice career that has allowed me to have a great media following, and fans that support my activism work.
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I have been able to educate people on all types of animal welfare issues – encouraging adoption, boycotting companies that test on animals, bringing awareness to the cruelty of captivity, turning people vegan, and much more.” On top of everything else she already does, Bonnie-Jill also serves as a celebrity ambassador for Best Friends Animal Society, HWAC, Kitten Rescue, Beagle Freedom Project, PETA, Farm Sanctuary, International Animal Rescue, the Sea Shepherd, the Humane Society, TX Horse Rescue and Wolf Connection. “Animals provide so much to us, including psychological and emotional support,” she says. “I don't know what I’d do without animals in my life.”
Social media links Bonnie-Jill Laflin Bonnie-Jill.com Instagram: @BonnieJill Twitter: @BJLaflin Facebook: facebook.com/BonnieJillFanPage/?fref=ts
Hounds and Heroes HoundsAndHeroes.com Instagram\Twitter: @HoundsAndHeroes Facebook: facebook.com/HoundsandHeroes/?fref=ts
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to the rescue Fredericton SPCA
Rescue code: AWA262
Left to right: Vic and Jazzy get ready to celebrate the holidays; Moonwin awaits his forever home; Victor enjoys some pool fun.
LOCATION: Fredericton, New Brunswick YEAR ESTABLISHED: 1914 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/FOSTER HOMES: 16 staff, 70 to 80 volunteers, 20 to 25 foster homes TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: Dogs and cats, as well as small animals like rabbits, rats, gerbils and hamsters
Follow on Faceb o
.com/fredericto ok nspca
first family canoe trip to Boughton Island. He met all our extended family's dogs and they got along great on the canoe trip – it just took some getting used to who is boss among the gang! “So far the three of us are very happy together! Thank you very much for all the hard work you do and for taking care of Buddy while he was with you!”
frederictonspca.ca
FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: “We had four major fundraisers this year,” says Annette James, Director of Operations. “Our Wine Gala was in May; the Just For Cats Film Festival in September; our Black Cat Soiree Masquerade Ball in October (first time for this one); and our Pet Expo in November. We are always trying new ideas and new fundraisers, since we are 100% donation-based and need to be creative!" FAVORITE RESCUE STORY: “Buddy has settled into our house great,” says Hayley, who along with her partner Andrew, recently adopted one of the Fredericton SPCA’s rescue dogs. “He is learning the rules very quickly and sits and stays now before he is fed and for all his treats. We are working on ‘down’ now. “He spent a week in late summer exploring with me and Andrew. We took him on the Bridgetown hiking trail (7.7 km), played at the cottage, did lots of swimming, went on a few runs, and enjoyed his
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Animal Wellness
From toys to waterplay, there's lots for dogs like Happy Boy (left) and Lucy (above) to do.
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 Friendzy 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
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passages
Lily & Tiger Lily By Julia Cameron
The author was devastated when Tiger Lily (left) passed away, but her new friend Lily has brought joy back to her life.
A
A sign in a Manhattan veterinarian’s office reads, “Be the person your dog thinks you are.” Pets bring unconditional love into our lives. They love us wholeheartedly, despite our occasional fits of temper, and can bring us a profound sense of joy. My own life has been immeasurably enhanced by a large and varied parade of animal companions. Nowadays, my West Highland Terrier, Lily, follows me from room to room, her brown button eyes filled with love. Every morning I say a prayer for Lily and for Tiger Lily, my Cocker Spaniel recently deceased. I ask that both dogs be given merriment, and Lily’s joyous mood throughout the day assures me that my prayers are answered. I turned 65 just as my Tiger Lily turned 15. We were both aging, needing naps and a careful diet so as not to put
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on weight. I had a teaching trip scheduled and I dropped Tiger Lily, as usual, at what I called “the spa” – a high-end kennel that featured play and dog bones. Tiger Lily loved “the spa”, and would return from her stay there clean and fluffy. But this time, she did not come home. Instead, I received a phone call during my travels. “Your dog is dying,” the phone call said. “Take her to the vet,” I instructed. They did take her to the vet, who ran a series of tests and came to the sad conclusion that her systems were all failing. “If it were my dog, I would put her down today,” he said. I told the vet to put her down rather than have her wait, suffering, until I could get home. The owner of the spa took Tiger Lily to the vet. There, she was peacefully and gently put to sleep. I finished my teaching and returned home. I stopped at the spa to pay Tiger Lily’s bill. They had taken a picture of Tiger Lily, and I was glad that they had. In
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Charlotte hovers near her lap. If she wants to go out for her walk, she gives Emma a baleful look, which Emma has come to translate as: “Walk me or else.” Yes, I decided, if I get another dog, it should be a Westie. Seeing my sorrow, my friend Robert began searching the internet for Westies. He found a Westie rescue in Arizona and I quickly got in touch and filled out a lengthy questionnaire. Then the agency sent me a picture of the Westie they had available for adoption. She was beautiful, three years old and housebroken – just what the doctor ordered. But then fate struck. "You don't live in Arizona. We're not placing our dogs anywhere except Arizona." I was devastated. Then, one day, I got out Robert's list of Westie breeders and, to my great delight, found a breeder in Colorado who was willing to place a dog in New Mexico.
Playful and loving, Lily the West Highland terrier filled the emptiness in the author's heart.
the picture, she looked old, tired, and sick. It reinforced my sense that I had made the right decision, but I found myself bursting into tears when I retrieved her collar and leash. I went home to an empty house sad that I had not had a chance to say goodbye. But I admitted to myself that it might have been for the best, as I might have fallen completely to pieces had I been present. Surely my grief would have made Tiger Lily’s transition more difficult. For several weeks I could not adjust to Tiger Lily’s absence. It was a full month before the vet called to say they had received Tiger Lily’s ashes. I stopped to retrieve them and once more found myself overwhelmed by grief. Everyone at the clinic was very understanding, but I was inconsolable. A tiny tin contained all of Tiger Lily’s remains. Without her to care for, my life felt empty. "Are you going to get another dog?" friends asked me. "Not right away," I told them. I found myself thinking of dogs I had known, dogs that made me happy. Emma's West Highland Terrier Charlotte kept coming to mind. Charlotte lives in an apartment with Emma and her friend Tyler. When I talk to Emma on the phone,
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Animal Wellness
The puppies were born on July 17th. They would be ready for adoption midway through September. I added a prayer to my nightly prayers: please, God, send me the right puppy. Every night I prayed. As the due date arrived I prayed harder. My friend Pamela, an artist, volunteered to make the drive from Santa Fe with me. Colorado had flooded the week before, and we postponed our trip. Finally it was time to go. Early the next morning, we set out to meet the breeder. "Oh look, she's beautiful!" I exclaimed to Pamela. "She's very playful," the breeder warned us. "You may want to hold her on your lap for a while at first." And so I wrote a check for the balance due and Pamela swung into the driver’s seat. "Boy, this puppy seems perfect," I found myself thinking as I stroked the tiny white puppy, who promptly kissed my face. I was immediately in love. I slid on her new collar with the name tag: Lily. Yes, Lily was going to be her name, and it did suit her. As we drove back through the Rockies, Lily curled into a fluffy white ball on my lap. God had answered my prayer. She was indeed the perfect puppy.
Adapted from It’s Never Too Late to Begin Again: Discovering Creativity and Meaning at Midlife and Beyond by Julia Cameron, with the permission of TarcherPerigee, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Copyright ©2016 by Julia Cameron.
the scoop A LIFETIME OF NUTRITION
You can reward your best friend with a lifetime of nutrition, thanks to the Loyall® brand of pet food from Nutrena®. Whether you choose their new Super Premium Pet Food or from their complete line of Premium Pet Foods, your dog or cat receives precisely-balanced high quality nutrients, no matter what his age. NutrenaWorld.com
KITTY CARNIVAL
Square Paws designed a community cat room at a shelter in Melbourne, Florida, to help draw visitors and increase adoption rates. This Kitty Carnival Room features amusement park "rides" for the cats to jump, play and lounge on. The Ferals' Ferris Wheel is the focal point, and the Big Cat Fun House and a Whac-a-Mouse arcade console round out the room. SquarePaws.com
QUALITY ORAL CARE
Bluestem oral care products are proven safe and effective for everyday use. The unique formulation helps fight plaque and tartar, and also freshens breath. All the company’s products are made in Canada from 100% food grade ingredients, and are approved by Health Canada’s Low Risk Veterinary Health Products (LRVHP) program. BlueStemPets.com
CAT TREES AND BEDS
The average cat tree only lasts so long before it starts looking shabby or falls apart. Armarkat prides itself on high quality cat trees in over 100 styles. Customers can expect years of stability, security and entertainment for their furry felines, and parts are available online. The company also features a line of resilient beds for both dogs and cats. Armakat.com
OPTIMIZE HIS NUTRITION
Nutram offers a complete line of all-natural holistic recipes – each one also provides Optimum Combinations™, two ingredients that when paired complement one other’s benefits. Their team of nutritionists and holistic experts pair these ingredients to ensure the maximum nutritional benefits of each one, plus the advantages of their combination. Nutram.com
December 2016/January 2017
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loss By Jennifer Hinders
Helping your dog adjust to or separation
Whether it’s a death in the family, a child leaving home, or a divorce, your dog will notice that one of his “pack” members is missing. Learn to help him deal with his grief.
Grief
Grief has many forms, and can arise from many situations besides the death of a loved one. A relationship breakup, a child leaving home, even a prolonged business trip or hospital stay are all examples of family changes that can cause feelings of loss and grief in those remaining at home. That grief can be felt even more keenly by your dog, who doesn’t understand where the missing person is and when or even if s/he will be back. My own dog became extremely sad when my husband left for an extended trip. Every time I sat down, he jumped in my lap (no small task since he weighs 50 pounds), lay his head on my arm and sighed pathetically. He poked around the house with his head drooping like a deflated balloon.
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Losing A DOG BUDDY IS ALSO
I asked veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman about my dog’s behavior. “Dogs can get into a funk or lose interest in life because of separation,” he told me, adding that even short absences can cause changes in behavior. “For instance, if a man goes out to play a game of golf for five hours, the dog will feel temporary loss, but will be relieved when the owner returns.
HARD ON HIM
Dogs don’t just grieve when people in their lives die or go away. It’s also common for a dog to grieve over the loss of another dog he was closely bonded with. Dogs in the same household may play together, sleep together, operate as a pack, so the loss of one has a deep impact on the other.
“With long term separation or loss, dogs suffer bereavement and get depressed, not unlike humans,” Dr. Dodman adds. “Dogs have a difficult time adjusting to an owner or family member being removed from the household. This is especially the case if the person is someone to whom the dog is close – for example, a dog sleeps in someone’s room and then suddenly that person is out of the picture. The dog can’t understand why that person has disappeared.”
Here’s one dramatic example involving two dogs in the same home. The older dog became terminally ill and needed to be put to sleep. The owner arranged for his healthy dog to go for a long run while the other was euthanized. Back home, the owner buried the older dog in the garden, covering the grave completely so it was basically indistinguishable from the surrounding area.
SYMPTOMS OF BEREAVEMENT OR LOSS Here are some common symptoms that indicate your dog is grieving over a separation or loss: • He seems down and depressed. • He has lost interest in things he formerly liked to do. • He’s listless, not playing with toys. • His appetite changes – typically, a grieving dog eats less and may lose weight. • He shows signs of anxiety. • His energy seems low when he’s out for walks.
When the healthy dog was brought back from his outing, he ran around the house looking for his buddy, then begged to go outside. He immediately went to his friend’s grave and lay on it for three days.
In extreme cases, bereavement can cause compulsive behaviors like incessant licking.
HOW TO CHEER HIM UP Many separations and losses in life are inevitable, which means you have to help your dog adjust to the absence of the missing family member. If you’re also grieving, it might be easy to overlook your dog’s feelings; but one of the best ways to help both of you is to try and find ways to make life happy and interesting again.
1
Act in an upbeat way around your dog; sympathy will actually make his depression worse because he’ll pick up on your own emotions. Dog behaviorist Bill Campbell calls this the “Jolly Routine”: when you act happy or jolly, it helps lift the dog’s mood. An old proverb states that “a cheerful heart is good medicine”. Being upbeat, fun and positive is good medicine for your dog (and for you).
2
Give your dog lots of attention – treats, new toys, extra walks or play sessions. Throw a ball. Let him play with other dogs. Consider getting him a new friend in the form of a puppy, if circumstances allow. When you go back to work after the loss or separation, don’t leave your dog at home alone. If your workplace allows, take him with you, or have him stay with a friend or family member he knows well.
The good news is that your dog’s grief will ease over time. He may feel low for a few weeks, but it’s generally temporary. As his owner, being aware of his suffering and taking the necessary actions to help him through it will speed his (and your) recovery and adjustment. December 2016/January 2017
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Share the festive season with your pet by making him these healthy low-fat turkey treats. By Audi Donamor
iday turkey l o H for your
dog or cat
For
many families, holiday dinners wouldn’t be complete without turkey. And that goes for your dog or cat too. Although you shouldn’t give him the fatty leftovers from your own roast bird – no skin or cooked bones either – you can use raw ground turkey to make some special festive treats for him. Turkey is low in fat and high in protein, and contains both Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids. It’s a good source of calcium,
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copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and zinc, and is also a valuable source of B vitamins, including B2, B3, B6 and B12. When making these recipes, choose organic ingredients wherever possible. Look for organic, pasture-raised turkey if you can. If you can’t find it at the grocery store or market, check with local farmers.
Ingredients
Turkey dinner
1 pound ground turkey thighs 1 cup sweet potatoes or yams, grated or shredded 1 egg, lightly beaten ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped ½ cup fresh salal berries or cranberries 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional) 1 teaspoon sea salt, e.g. Himalayan, Antarctic 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
Instructions
COOKED EDITION Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a loaf pan, cake pan or pie plate, and line it with grated/shredded sweet potatoes or yams. Sprinkle minced garlic on top. Add ½ cup stock and lightly beaten egg.
Add 1/4 cup parsley, then add 1/4 cup salal berries or cranberries. Add ground turkey and the remaining ½ cup stock. Sprinkle sea salt on top. Add remaining parsley and salal berries or cranberries. Gently press down with a spatula or the back of a serving fork.
Bake for one hour. Cool completely before slicing and serving. Store in the fridge. This dish can also be prepared to the point of baking, then frozen and baked at a later time. RAW EDITION Thoroughly combine all ingredients, and serve.
Yum
Recipes continued on page 82.
Salal is often called the “plant of perseverance”. The berries are a nutritionally-packed food source, and contain vitamins A, C and E, fiber and riboflavin, along with antioxidants known for their anti-cancer properties. If you are fortunate enough to live in an area where salal grows, you can make your own teas and tonics. Simply gather healthy, green salal leaves during the spring and summer months. Bundle them together with twine or a rubber band, and hang them in a dry warm place, out of the sun. When the leaves are dry and crackly to the touch, strip them from the branches and store them in a jar or Ziploc bag. Add one tablespoon of crushed leaves per cup of hot filtered water, and infuse for 20 minutes. Salal berries make an excellent base for fruit leather. The Salish people used to mash the berries then dry them into cakes on cedar planks, or in skunk cabbage leaves, to be used during the winter months. The Haida used salal to thicken wild salmon eggs. December 2016/January 2017
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Recipes continued from page 81.
Ingredients
Turkey biscuits
1 pound ground turkey thighs 1 cup sweet potatoes or yams, grated or shredded 1 egg, lightly beaten ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped ½ cup fresh salal berries or cranberries 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional) 1 teaspoon sea salt, e.g. Himalayan, Antarctic 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock 1 tablespoon first pressed olive oil 2 cups whole oat flakes
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, then transfer to the cookie sheet, lightly press down, and score with a knife. Bake for one hour. Cool completely before storing in a container in the fridge.
Enjoy
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book reviews
Title: Pit Bull Author: Bronwen Dickey Few breeds have been subject to as much controversy as the pit bull. Condemned by many as vicious and dangerous, pit bulls are the victims of breed specific legislation, and banned from many municipalities across the US and Canada. In her new book Pit Bull – The Battle Over an American Icon, essayist and journalist Bronwen Dickey takes an in-depth look at the pit bull’s history, investigates why the breed has become demonized, and dispels the myths and misunderstandings surrounding these dogs. Her journey started when she adopted her own pit bull, saw how timid and affectionate he was, and wondered how a breed once beloved by figures such as Teddy Roosevelt and Helen Keller had become so feared. Her search for answers took her from 19th century dogfighting pits, and early 20th century movie sets, where pit bulls appeared on screen as lovable canines, to desolate urban neighborhoods where pit bulls are often prized but brutalized. A fascinating and compassionate portrait of an unfairly maligned breed.
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Title: Shelter Dogs in a Photo Booth Author: Guinnevere Shuster Shelter dogs are most often pictured in cages, looking sad and lost. In Shelter Dogs in a Photo Booth, author and photographer Guinnevere Shuster presents a delightful gallery of more than 100 former shelter dogs, each in a variety of fun “photo booth” poses. The images capture the lovable personalities of each dog, and are accompanied by short bios describing how they ended up in shelters, and the dates when they were adopted into their forever homes. You’ll meet Piglet, a friendly young Chihuahua who was adopted last year from the Humane Society of Utah; Tater, a gentle seven-year-old mastiff who happily found a family to spend his golden years with; Bruno, a young pit bull who ended up in the shelter when his family moved, but found a new home after only one day; and many others. A portion of proceeds from the sale of this book will benefit the Humane Society of Utah and Best Friends Animal Society. A perfect gift idea! Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing December 2016/January 2017
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Animal Wellness
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Animal Communicators
Books & Publications
CAROL SCHULTZ – Animal Communicator/Intuitive Healing Support. Interactive, compassionate, practical, and insightful Consultations and Energy Balancing for all species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, physical, end of life, in spirit, plus lost animals. Classes & 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.eastyorkanimalclinic.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com (416) 757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7 GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. Dr. Smolkin is certified in Animal Chiropractic. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. Contact Guelph Animal Hospital at (519) 836-2781 or www.quelphvet.com
events Bay Area Pet Expo January 21-22, 2017 – Santa Clara, CA
Join us for an exciting day of interactive activities, shopping, demonstrations, exhibitions and animals galore. Don't miss out on all the fun!
You will find tons of exhibitors and demonstrations as well as free nail trims. There will be prize giveaways and live entertainment. You can adopt from one of the many Rescue groups and also learn about pet care, volunteerism, grooming, training and much more!
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 Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo January 13-15, 2017 – Oaks, PA 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.
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
7th Annual Holiday Pet Festival December 3, 2016 – Scottsdale, AZ
Over 200 animals from exhibiting animal rescue organizations found loving homes at last year's event.
MAIN STREET VETERINARY SERVICES – Our mission is to help guide our animal companions to better health naturally. We provide a variety of veterinary medical services for pets from conventional services to holistic services such as chiropractic or acupuncture care. Our commitment to our patients, high quality customized medicine and customer service will be evident in all that we do. 2360 Main Street, London, ON N6P 1P9. (519) 203-2000; www.mainstreetvetservices.ca/
Be sure to check out other Amazing Pet Expo events all year around at www.amazingpetexpos.com For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.bayareapetexpo.com 16th Annual World of Pets Expo January 27-29, 2017 - 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.
Leashed pets are Welcome! For more information: (631) 423-0620 www.familypetshows.com Edmonton Pet Expo January 28-29, 2017 – 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 North American Vet Conference February 4-8, 2017 – Orlando, FL
Featuring a K9 Dog Show as well as Joy Freedman, who has been changing the behavior of dogs and their owners since her studies at The National Institute of Dog Training.
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.
And you won’t want to miss the parade of Breeds! Open to purebred dogs 6 months and up.
Exhibitors will fill the spacious Cow Palace with thousands of products and services for pets.
Held each January in Orlando, Florida, the NAVC Conference welcomes over 15,000 attendees from over 70 countries.
Leashed pets are Welcome!
For more information: info@worldofpets.org www.worldofpets.org
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.
Lehigh Valley Pet Expo January 27-29, 2017 – Allentown, PA
This is an excellent opportunity to socialize and network with other industry professionals at our evening entertainment programs.
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.
For more information: (800) 756.3446 info@navc.com www.navc.com
For more information: (631) 423-0620 www.familypetshows.com
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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.
By Anabelle Lee Macri
There was a full moon in the sky that night. There was also one to the left. The officer said that nudity had to be frontal in order to file a report. “Well, he was facing me when he was putting his pants on!” I responded. I have an excellent imagination, but even I couldn’t replace the image of my neighbor zipping up in the moonlight while taking his dog out to pee. Yet I understood my neighbor’s dilemma. Nighttime or early morning pee breaks are a necessity when you have a dog. When I first got my pup, I made sure I was prepared by lining up the essentials – lip gloss, mouthwash, moisturizer, a comb, cute pajamas, a matching robe and slippers with sateen bows. After one month, that scenario changed to: stumble out of bed, swish with mouthwash right from the bottle, comb bedhead hair with fingers, and splash cold water on face while sporting mismatched pajamas. At least I never engaged in random acts of nudity.
tail end
etiquette
Let’s talk dog
Inevitably, the dogs came onto my property while I had my own German shepherd with me. Before a fight could break out, I used a deterrent spray. Natural dog repellents are designed to be safe, which I can attest to, because I once sprayed myself when I dropped it. Apparently, a key ingredient is citronella, so I enjoyed the benefit of keeping flies and mosquitoes away for the remainder of the day. In short, dog etiquette in neighborhood settings is important. More than once I have been dressed for work when a loose dog bounds over to play with my shepherd, with me in the middle as the ball. And as far as my naked neighbor is concerned, a little advice – you, running half naked after your dog, is not something I wish to see unless you are Thor.
My neighbor’s moonlight foray is just one example of what can happen in a neighborhood with dogs. Recently, a new pet owner next door thought her little dog had followed her into her house, but instead he made a beeline for my garage. Before I knew it, I had her dog in my garage, and once she discovered he was missing, I also had my neighbor in my garage. The dog ran out while my neighbor was still searching my garage; he ran back in while my clueless neighbor was searching outside. I watched them continue playing hide and seek until her husband arrived. “Come out of there, now!” he commanded, but the dog just stared at the couple from under my car. They looked at me in exasperation and said, “Our dog needs training.” Not just the dog, I thought. My other neighbors used to open their garage door so their two big dogs could go in and out when they weren’t at home. December 2016/January 2017
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WELLNESS feline easy Hip, cool and healthy!
9 tips for
successful litter box training
COOKING FOR KITTY – try these healthy festive recipes!
CATS WITH
CANCER
– combining conventional and holistic therapies improves quality of life
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Animal Wellness
Automated litter boxes make life simpler
Cats and kittens from shelters and rescues don’t always come litter-trained. So it’s up to you to help your new friend understand where her bathroom is, and how to use it. These tips will make it easier.
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tips for litter box training By Jac Smith
Though typically very clean animals, newly adopted cats and kittens will sometimes eliminate around the house until they become accustomed to using their litter trays. Using the simple suggestions in this article will help ensure your new kitty transitions smoothly to using his litter box at all times. Like most cat owners who’ve been through the pesky procedure of litter training a new addition to the family, I’m no stranger to the occasional pool or poop behind the sofa or under the bed. Litter training can be a messy process (just as housetraining a puppy is), and while negotiating your way through this feculent minefield isn’t a fun task, it rarely takes long for a new cat to figure it out. Recognizing his requirements and ensuring his comfort throughout this period will make your cat more receptive to training. Here are nine ways to streamline the process and help ensure a clean kitty.
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Make sure the litter box is big enough. Cats like plenty of room to scratch and circle in the box. Additionally, ensure the sides are low enough for your cat to access it comfortably, especially if he’s a kitten or an older cat with less joint flexibility. If you’re concerned about kick-out mess, opt for a high-sided box with a low front.
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Consider several boxes or trays if you have more than one cat. Some cats won’t defecate in an area that’s already been soiled by another. Two litter boxes were enough for my three cats, as Joey and Mollie (brother and sister) were happy to share, but one litter tray per cat is usually necessary. Place the litter box in an accessible area where you won’t be affected by odors and where your cat can eliminate privately. It shouldn’t be situated close to his food or water as cats won’t soil near their eating area (imagine eating your own dinner in the bathroom). Introduce your new cat to his tray straightaway. Kittens will often play in the litter, which helps familiarize them with the box. Thereafter, put him in the box at regular intervals throughout the day, particularly after he’s eaten. Restrict access to the whole house during the training period. This limits the number of areas your cat or kitten can eliminate in without you realizing. Otherwise, you may find poop behind your floor length drapes or puddles in your closet. Keep a close eye on your new kitty for the first few days and watch for signs that he is preparing to eliminate – if he starts scratching, meowing or disappears behind the furniture, December 2016/January 2017
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move him to his tray immediately. Similarly, if you catch him in the act, pick him up (mid-flow if necessary!), put him in his litter box, and praise him for finishing off there.
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Don’t punish your cat for not using his litter tray. He won’t understand what he’s done wrong. Chastising him is futile and will likely have a detrimental effect, causing him to become afraid of you. Reinforce his good behavior when he uses the tray by rewarding him immediately after he has finished eliminating – let him know he’s done a good thing. If your cat has urinated outside the litter box, clean the patch thoroughly, and add a strong but non-toxic natural scent to cover the odor. Cats often revisit previous spots they’ve peed in, as they’re attracted by their own smell. Similarly, if he defecates elsewhere in the house, scoop it up, place it in his litter tray and show him what you’re doing. Remove the poop afterward but
If your cat won’t use the litter box no matter what, or starts shunning it after he’s already been trained, seek veterinary advice. Behavioral issues like this can often be attributed to stress or medical problems that need to be diagnosed and addressed.
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…watch for signs that he is preparing to eliminate – if he starts scratching, meowing or disappears behind the furniture, move him to his tray immediately.
leave a little behind, as the smell of his own excrement should help encourage him to use his box next time.
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Always ensure you empty the litter box regularly. Cats are very hygienic and won’t use their trays if they’re heavily soiled. You may also need to switch to a different brand of litter if you’re still having a problem, as some cats don’t like the smell or texture of certain products. Keep in mind that cats have an acute sense of smell and scented litters will repel them (and are also unhealthy). Try opting for an odorless, natural litter.
It’s common for cats to avoid their litter boxes during the initial training process. But with patience and persistence, your new feline friend will soon get the message.
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INTEGRATIVE CANCER CARE for cats Drawing on a combination of conventional and alternative treatment options can improve quality of life in cats with cancer, and help them live longer.
C
By Ingrid King
ancer isn’t as common in cats as in dogs, but it’s still one of the leading causes of death in older felines. According to the Animal Cancer Foundation, six million cats in the US alone are diagnosed with cancer each year. And because cats are masters at masking illness, early symptoms are often harder to detect in cats than in dogs. The good news is that an integrative approach to treatment can in many cases vastly improve both the quality and quantity of life in cats with cancer.
COMBINING CHEMO OR RADIATION WITH HOLISTIC TREATMENTS Holistic cancer treatments can range from immune-strengthening supplements to acupuncture to energy healing modalities such as Reiki. If you choose conventional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation to treat your cat’s cancer, it’s best to work with an integrative veterinarian who is also open to holistic modalities. Dr. Patrick Mahaney, a holistic house-call veterinarian who practices in Los Angeles, frequently uses an integrative approach to cancer. “I strive to complement the goals of chemotherapy and radiation through the use of nutraceuticals (food-derived substances with medicinal benefits), herbs, whole food diets, acupuncture, and other complementary and alternative medicine modalities,” he says. “I’ve been able to reduce side effects from chemotherapy and radiation, in the cancer patients I share with the veterinary oncologists I partner with, when providing care through an integrative approach.
Ginger
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“Pre- and probiotics, digestive tract and other internal organsupporting products (ginger, aloe leaf extract, glutamine, milk thistle, etc.), natural anti-inflammatory herbs and supplements can help reduce any vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or other side effects of chemotherapy,” adds Dr. Mahaney. Acupuncture can help with pain control, and may reduce the need for pain medications. It can also assist the body by rebalancing and unblocking its energy. Some modalities, most notably Reiki, can help with pain control and alleviate the side effects of conventional treatments.
HOW IS HER
QUALITY OF LIFE?
You cat’s quality of life will be the primary concern, no matter what treatment approach you take. Because cats are masters at not showing pain or other signs of illness, and often continue to act as if nothing is wrong even when something most definitely is, veterinarian Dr. Conor J. McNeill, an oncologist at the Hope Center for Advanced Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, Virginia, depends on the cat’s guardian to get a complete picture of how the animal is doing. “In this regard, it’s very much like pediatric medicine,” he says. “We have to rely on the client to tell us what the cat is doing at home. Is she vomiting and how frequently; what is her activity level; how is she eating?” In other words, it’s important to monitor your cat’s pain, hydration status, hygiene, mobility and overall happiness, and report any changes to your vet.
Milk thistle NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT Cats with cancer have unique nutritional requirements. Cancer changes how the body metabolizes nutrients. Cancer cells metabolize glucose (from carbohydrates) and make lactate that the body then tries to convert back into glucose. This process diverts energy from the cat, feeding the cancer instead. Cancers also convert amino acids, the building blocks of protein, into energy, which causes muscle wasting, poor immune function, and slow healing. Additionally, tumor cells have difficulty utilizing fat as a source of energy. All this results in what’s known as “cancer cachexia”, a progressive weight loss and depletion of muscle and connective tissues. For all these reasons, adequate species-appropriate nutrition is critically important in feline cancer patients. A premium diet high in meat-based proteins and quality fats, with minimal carbohydrates and no artificial additives is a good choice. Unfortunately, cats will often lose their appetites when they’re not feeling well, so it’s important to stay on top of how much your cat is eating.
CATS CAN TOLERATE CHEMO
Many cat guardians balk at the thought of putting their cats through chemotherapy. Dr. McNeill frequently sees cat guardians who have been through cancer treatment themselves and don’t want to relive their own experiences through their beloved cats. But he says most cats tolerate chemotherapy extremely well. “Depending on how it is given, chemotherapy in cats generally can have few or no side effects,” Dr. McNeill says, though he adds that he’s proactive about treating possible issues such as pain and nausea. “This becomes especially important with cats, since they’re so good at hiding symptoms.”
By treating not just your cat’s cancer, but your cat as a whole, you and your integrative vet can work together to ensure maximum quality of life for the longest possible time.
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Product Profile
Litter boxes made
easy
Automated litter boxes make life simpler for you and your cat by minimizing cleanup. cat lovers have any complaints, cleaning out the litter box probably tops the list. It needs to be done daily, but if you have a busy lifestyle, finding the time can be a challenge. This is where an automated litter box can help.
the Litter-Robot can be left for up to ten days (while remaining odor-free) before you need to empty the drawer. “Cleaning it is as simple as changing the bag. If you have several cats, you will need to empty the drawer more than once per week.”
The Litter-Robot is an automatic self-cleaning litter box that runs on electricity or a battery. “The sifting system automatically separates waste from clean litter, so you never have to scoop litter,” says Marissa Hanna of Automated Pet Care Products. “It self-cleans after each use, reduces litter box odor, and works for cats of all sizes. It knows when your cat is inside the unit and when it's time to clean up.” A safety mechanism prevents the Litter-Robot from operating when your cat is inside; and if she tries to re-enter during the cleaning cycle, the motor will shut off automatically.
The drawer itself accommodates a variety of liners. Large kitchen garbage bags, and even large plastic grocery bags will do the job. When you change the bag, check the level of litter in the globe and add a few cups when needed.
Once your cat leaves the litter box, a timer counts down, allowing the litter to clump before the cleaning cycle begins. The Litter-Robot gently and quietly separates the waste clumps from the clean litter by frequently rotating the globe along a horizontal axis. The clean litter stays in the globe while the waste drops into a disposable bag in a concealed carbon-filtered drawer under the globe. The globe then returns to the home position, leaving a clean, level bed of litter for the next use. “The bag in the waste drawer holds several days' worth of waste, saving you time spent scooping litter,” says Marissa, adding that
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Each year, over two millions tons of used cat litter wind up in American landfills, but because the Litter-Robot doesn’t use nearly as much as a traditional litter box, it’s more environmentally friendly as well as economical. The company also offers biodegradable waste drawer liners and litter. The litter is made from sundried sodium bentonite, a naturallyoccurring clay from Wyoming. Unlike other clay clumping litters, it’s dust-free because it’s screened for ideal particle size, making it safe for your cat. Sodium bentonite has many of the natural odor-trapping properties of baking soda, and because the litter is naturally sundried, those odor-absorbing qualities are maintained in the finished product. There are several Litter-Robots to choose from and the company also offers tips on how to choose the right product, and to help your cat get used to it. It’s something to consider if you need to simplify your life.
By Audi Donamor
recipes for felines Cats can be fussy eaters, but the following recipes are sure to please the palate of the pickiest kitty. Some also make great gift ideas for the fellow cat lovers on your list!
Tuna loaf for finicky felines Ingredients 1 can tuna, packed in water (alternatives include salmon, mackerel, sardines and pollock)
Catty cran-crisps Ingredients
2 cups stone ground whole wheat flour, or other whole grain flour of your choice (e.g. oat, rice)
1 teaspoon organic kelp
1 can wild salmon (you can also use canned mackerel, sardines or even shrimp)
1 teaspoon organic catnip
1/4 cup pure cranberry juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup filtered water
1 cup organic quick oats
1 teaspoon Celtic sea salt (optional)
2 eggs
2 tablespoons catnip (parsley or oregano can be used in place of catnip, and a combination of these herbs works well too)
Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a loaf pan (e.g. glass Pyrex). Combine tuna, eggs, kelp, catnip and parsley in a food processor, blender or mixer. Fold in quick oats, until all ingredients are well combined. Spoon into loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Garnish tuna loaf with parsley, cranberries and a sprinkling of kelp before serving to your feline friend.
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cranberries Extra flour for rolling Instructions Preheat oven to 325°F. Combine all ingredients in a food processor until well blended, and the dough pulls away from the side of the bowl. Turn dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface, and divide it into six balls. Knead each ball, then roll out into circles (or cut into other shapes), about 1/4” in thickness. Sprinkle flour on the rolling surface and rolling pin, as needed. Place the pieces on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Score the surface of each with a knife or pizza slicer. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn your oven down to 175°F and bake for 30 minutes more. Turn oven off and let the treats cool completely before gently breaking them into scored pieces, and storing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. Recipes continued on page 96. December 2016/January 2017
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Recipes continued from page 95.
Kelp kisses Ingredients
1 can wild sockeye salmon, Pacific Coast wild solid white Albacore tuna, mackerel or sardines 2 cups whole grain flour (e.g. whole brown rice, whole oats, quinoa) 1 tablespoon fresh or 1+1/2 teaspoons dried catnip 1 +1/2 teaspoons Acadian sea kelp or dulse 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional) 1 cup filtered water or fish stock 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil or rice bran oil Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Put all ingredients in a food processor or blender, and whirl until everything is thoroughly combined and really smooth. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Pretend you are making deviled eggs and scoop the mixture into a cookie press. Or spoon onto your cookie sheets the way you would with drop cookies. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn oven off, letting the kisses cool completely in the oven before storing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag in the refrigerator. These treats freeze well.
Poached fish bits with catnip Ingredients
1/4 pound pollock, or other fish of your choice 1 cup filtered water 1 small clove garlic, finely minced 3 sprigs fresh catnip, or 1 teaspoon dried catnip 2 sprigs fresh parsley, flat or curly Instructions Place 1 cup filtered water in saucepan. Add garlic, parsley and catnip. Combine well. Bring mixture to a boil, then turn down to a low simmer for 15 minutes. Gently add pieces of pollock to the simmering broth and cook for 15 minutes. Remove fish from saucepan and place on serving dish. Gently break up fish into tiny pieces, and cover with broth. Remember to cool to room temperature before serving.
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Gourmeow goulash
Ingredients
1/2 pound giblets 1/2 pound hearts 1 clove fresh garlic, finely minced 1 tablespoon oregano, rubbed 1/2 cup filtered water 2 tablespoons butter or first pressed olive oil 1 cup Thai jasmine rice or 1 cup quinoa, well rinsed 2 cups filtered water Instructions Place giblets, hearts, garlic, oregano, water and butter or olive oil in a pan. Turn heat on high. Gently sautĂŠ until bubbles begin to form, then turn the heat down to a simmer for 15 minutes. Add Thai jasmine rice or rinsed quinoa, along with the filtered water. Gently stir and turn the heat up to high again until bubbles appear. Turn the heat back down to a simmer, cover the pot, and time for 20 to 25 minutes, until the water is nearly all absorbed. Turn off the heat and allow the goulash to cool completely before serving. This dish freezes beautifully, and is perfect for gift giving too!
Wild salmon rollups
Ingredients
1 can wild salmon (e.g. wild red Alaskan sockeye salmon) 1- 2 tablespoons dried, rubbed oregano and/or dried catnip 1/3 cup fresh mayonnaise or Balkan style yogurt Instructions This treat can be prepared in five minutes! Place salmon in a small mixing bowl. Add fresh mayonnaise or yogurt, and combine thoroughly. Put oregano, catnip or a combination of both on a small plate. Make small balls of the salmon mixture, roll in the herbs, and place in a serving dish. That's it!
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purrfect end
Archie the
treetop angel By Georgia A. Hubley
I tiptoed into the living room. “Archie, where are you?” Loud purring revealed our cat’s hiding place behind the Christmas tree. I peeked through the branches and spotted him rolling from side to side on the red plaid tree skirt – playfully sparring with a tiny branch. His black fur glistened as he nestled close to a strand of twinkling white lights. Suddenly, Archie’s purring became louder and he began to twitch about in excitement. Then he sprawled flat on his back. Stunned, I watched our lively eight-month-old kitten become subdued into a state of euphoria by the intoxicating scent of fresh pine. “I think pine is the new catnip,” my husband teased. Next day, we went out to finish our Christmas shopping, and also purchased a vintage metal angel tree topper and a red personalized Christmas stocking for Archie. When we returned home, the sweet fragrance of pine filled our nostrils. There was
no sign of Archie. My husband headed for the living room, “He’s sleeping under the tree. Let’s feed him after we unpack the car.” When we returned to the living room 20 minutes later, Archie was no longer in his favorite spot. The tree was swaying to and fro against the wall, and we realized he’d climbed up the back of it. We spotted him on a tiny branch about a quarter of the way to the top of the tree. “Archie, stop!” my husband shouted, but it was too late. The branch made a cracking noise and the tinkling sounds of tin ornaments rang in our ears as they tumbled to the floor. Archie dug his claws deeper into the tree trunk as it began to tilt forward. My husband reached for him as the whole tree crashed to the floor. “The top of the tree is still bare – I believe Archie wants to be our treetop angel,” I chuckled. While Archie ate his dinner, we lifted the Christmas tree back to its rightful spot. Surprisingly, there were no breakages. After Archie’s stocking was hung and the metal angel placed on top of the tree, we couldn’t help but admire our handiwork. “This calls for a glass of bubbly,” my husband said. Unaware that our kitty was underfoot, my husband popped the champagne cork into the air and it grazed Archie’s head. “This sure hasn’t been Archie the Angel’s lucky day,” I said. “Do you think it’s true that cats have nine lives? My husband laughed, “I sure hope so. I think Archie’s going to need them.”
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