V25I2 (Spring 2023) by Redstone Media Group

CONTENTS Spring 2023

Columns 18 MEDICINAL

46 FORWARD

Lion’s Mane mushroom offers healing properties to dogs

Emergency preparedness for cats

MUSHROOMS

A popular mushroom in North America, Lion’s Mane features a range of medicinal benefits for both people and their dogs — from calming anxiety to supporting the gut.

22 CANINE BEHAVIOR Understanding your dog’s body language

18 Features 12

How do your dog’s hormones affect health and behavior? F rom estrogen and testosterone to adrenaline and cortisol, your dog’s hormones have a profound impact on their well-being — physically, mentally and emotionally.

each your dog not to fear 16 Tloud noises

Thunder, fireworks, and other loud noises turn many dogs into nervous wrecks. Here’s how to train your dog to take scary sounds in stride.

et-friendly home décor P that’s functional and fabulous Sharing your home with a dog or cat doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Take a look at how you can incorporate your best friend’s needs into your design and decorating plans.

support for your 32 Ndogutritional or cat’s gut-brain axis An imbalance in the gut microbiome can affect your dog or cat’s brain and cause mood and behavior changes. Learn how to support their gut-brain axis with diet and supplements.

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Our dogs constantly communicate with us through body language. By becoming familiar with it, you can interpret how your dog is feeling and respond to her needs.

38 HEALING

INSIDE & OUT

Understanding and supporting your dog or cat’s nervous system Find out why the nervous system is the most important system in your dog or cat’s body, and how to keep it healthy and functioning properly.

42 NATURAL REMEDIES

Can lipomas in dogs be treated naturally? Lipomas are common in dogs. In most cases, these fatty lumps are harmless and can be treated with dietary and lifestyle changes, along with herbs and other alternative therapies.

PLANNING

Having to evacuate due to a disaster can be particularly stressful for cats. Here’s how to create a feline-friendly emergency plan for your kitties.

48 DID YOU KNOW? Do dogs dream?

The answer is yes! Take a look at what we know about canine sleep patterns, why dogs dream — and what they dream about!

52 ANIMAL

COMMUNICATION Choosing an animal communicator for your dog or cat

Thinking about hiring an animal communicator for your dog or cat? Find out what communicators can and can’t do, and how to choose the right one for you and your animal.

56 HEALTH WATCH Biofilms and how they affect your dog or cat

We hear a lot about biofilms these days, but what exactly are they, and what impact can they have on your dog or cat’s health and wellbeing?

60 SAFETY FIRST

Outdoor safety for cats

Letting your cat enjoy the great outdoors this spring can enrich his life and enhance his well-being — as long as you make his safety your number one priority.

64 IMMUNE

72 FELINE

78 ALTERNATIVE

How supporting your dog or cat’s gut health boosts immunity

Aggression in cats

Immunity and homeopathy in dogs — focus on nosodes

SUPPORT

BEHAVIOR

Whether it’s biting or scratching, or an all-out attack against another cat or person, feline aggression is upsetting and traumatic. But there are solutions for defusing it.

A properly-functioning immune system is vital to your dog or cat’s overall wellness, and it starts with supporting their gut health.

75 EMOTIONAL

66 LEARNING

WELL-BEING

CURVE

In sync — study gets to the heart of the animal-human bond

How genetics can influence your dog’s behavior

Fear, aggression and other behavioral problems in dogs often arise from maltreatment, lack of socialization and other issues. But science is showing that genetics also play a part.

70 ANIMAL

BODYWORK

Tui na helps prevent spring injuries in active dogs Most dogs are less active during the winter months. Find out how Tui na can help prevent early season injuries as your canine “springs into action” again.

76 AT HOME

House call vets — why to consider having one

59 Newsworthy

27 Product picks

69 Let’s get social

36 In the news

81 Marketplace

37 Business profile –

81 Classifieds

Alaska Naturals

Social Media

Homeopathic nosodes are a potent, safe and effective way to help dogs build specific immunity to many major diseases, without the risks and side effects caused by vaccines.

82 ANIMAL LIFESTYLE

What are the most animal-friendly American cities?

While it’s important to maintain a relationship with a local veterinary clinic, a house call practice can take a lot of stress out of your dog or cat’s wellness visits.

Departments 8 From the Editor

APPROACH

Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Nutrition videos, recipes and more! Animal Wellness Magazine

Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness

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ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS VOLUME 25 ISSUE 2

EDITORIAL/CREATIVE DEPARTMENT: Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Content Editor: Ashley Tonkens Graphic Design Lead: Ethan Vorstenbosch Graphic Designer: Joy Sunga Web Design & Development: Lace Imson Cover Photo Photographer: Lopolo

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Nadia Ali Sally E. Bahner Todd Cooney, DVM, CVH W. Jean Dodds, DVM Andrea Gronwald Patricia Herlevi Jennifer Hinders Celeste Huttes Joni Kamlet, RVT, CCRA Katie Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP Ingrid King Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT Ramona Marek Jared Mitchell, DVM, CVMA Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT Omer Rashid, DVM Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS Amy Snow Emily Stein, PhD Melody Tavitian-Parra Tonya Wilhelm Nancy Zidonis

ADMINISTRATION & SALES:

President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden Subscription Services: Simone Beimbrink Customer Satisfaction Representative: Mattias Wahl

SUBMISSIONS:

ON THE COVER

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.

Cover photo by: Lopolo Is your dog as bright and happy as this little one? Behavior problems such as anxiety and aggression are common in dogs (and cats!), so if your animal companion is acting out, this issue is for you. It’s chock full of advice on how to solve various behavioral difficulties and help your best friend regain her joie de vivre — so she can have as much fun frolicking in the spring sunshine as the dog on our cover!

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ADVERTISING SALES:

National Sales Manager/Editorial Associate: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Business Development Representative: Luke Pigeon, (866) 764-1212 ext 228 luke.pigeon@redstonemediagroup.com Classified Advertising: Libby Sinden, (866) 764-1212 ext 114 classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com Customer Satisfaction Manager: Mattias Wahl, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 Mattias@redstonemediagroup.com

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Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for four issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (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.

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Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published four times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2023. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: February 2023. proudly supporting

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FROM THE EDITOR

Anxiety — it’s not just for

humans anymore Our little Shih poo rescue, Muffie, goes just about everywhere with us — to work, to the cabin, to visit friends and family, etc. So it boggles the mind that she still shakes when she gets in the car, even though we rescued her at age seven months and she just turned 15. I’ve tried to desensitize her and have learned some tricks to distract her from her anxiety, like putting the back window halfway down and pretending to see another dog down the street to shift her focus, and adding a calming essential oil blend to her dog tag. Eventually, if the trip is a longer one, Muffie will settle down and close her eyes. It’s hard to know if something car-related happened to her before we adopted her, but you would think after 14 years, she might have moved past it. Still, we’ve been able to manage her anxiety so it’s tolerable for everyone. One thing I know, Muffie is not alone. These days, anxiety, aggression, and other behavior problems are common in dogs and cats. Luckily, there are a lot of things we can do to remedy these issues and help our fourlegged friends feel safer and calmer. If your own animal is exhibiting some new or unusual behaviors, have her checked over by your vet just to make sure she doesn’t have any physical conditions that might be making her act that way. If she gets a clean bill of health, then you can address the problem from a behavioral and training standpoint. This issue of Animal Wellness can help. If loud noises trigger your dog, for example, you’ll learn how to gently teach her not to fear them so much. Our article on canine body language will help you understand

and interpret the signals she’s sending you, so you can alleviate any stress she may be feeling. While behavior problems often stem from past neglect or abuse, they can also be genetic in origin, so we include an article on this fascinating topic as well. We also examine how hormones can influence your dog’s behavior; delve into ways to support the canine nervous system; and discuss the gut-brain axis and why his diet might be influencing his mood. Cat parents, meanwhile, will want to read up on feline aggression — and how to defuse or prevent it. This issue also focuses on the immune system, and why it’s as important to our canine and feline friends as it is for us. Take a look at how to boost your best friend’s immunity by supporting her gut health, and how a type of homeopathic remedy called nosodes may also help keep her healthy and happy. This just touches the surface of what our Spring issue has to offer. Happy reading! Yours in wellness,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

Visit our facebook page at facebook.com/AnimalWellnessMagazine 8

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CONTRIBUTORS Veterinarian Dr. Todd Cooney trained at Purdue University. He worked in private mixed practice, and as a USDA veterinarian. After 22 years of conventional practice, he took Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy, which changed the way he viewed health and disease. Dr. Cooney began using homeopathy right away, with exciting results (naturalanimalconsulting.com or drtcooney@gmail.com). p. 78 Veterinarian Dr. Jean Dodds received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she established Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals. Dr. Dodds has been a member of many committees on hematology, animal models of human disease and veterinary medicine. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994. p. 66 Veterinarian Dr. Katie Kangas graduated from the University of Wisconsin Veterinary College in 1993. She achieved her CVA certification at the Chi Institute, followed by training in Advanced Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Herbal Medicine and Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation. Dr. Kangas owns Integrative Veterinary Care in San Diego, California. Special interests include nutrition/food medicine, dental health and pain management. p. 12 Veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause graduated from Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007. She incorporates many holistic modalities into her practice, has a love for Traditional Chinese Medicine and Physical Medicine, and offers laser therapy, myofascial release, physical therapy, nutrition, and more. Dr. Angie has a house call practice called Boulder Holistic Vet (BoulderHolisticVet.com). p. 76 Veterinarian Dr. Jared Mitchell graduated from Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004, and owns Mitchell Animal Clinic in Mobile, Alabama. He has advanced training in essential oils through the VMAA and has published articles for several peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Mitchell is certified in veterinary acupuncture and veterinary food therapy through Chi University, and is enrolled in their Masters of TCVM program. p. 38 Veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984. She is certified in Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation, and in Acupuncture and Food Therapy from the Chi Institute, as well as acupuncture, food therapy, and chiropractic care. She has authored four books on holistic pet care, and has over 700 educational videos on Facebook and YouTube (drjudymorgan.com). p. 56 Veterinarian Dr. Omer Rashid earned his veterinary degree in 2002 from University of Agriculture Faisalabad, followed by a Master’s degree in Parasitology. He worked for several years in veterinary practice, and studied advanced pharmacology at Charles Darwin University in Australia. Dr. Rashid developed an interest in integrative veterinary health, and joined Redstone Media Group as Associate Editor for IVC Journal in 2022. p. 32 Veterinarian Dr. Robert Silver graduated from Colorado State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and established one of the first US integrative vet clinics in Boulder, CO in 1993. He is a nationally recognized expert in veterinary herbal medicine and veterinary CBD and cannabis therapeutics. He wrote A Guide to Pet CBD and Cannabis, shares a blog site (NurseYourPet. com) and owns the Well-Pet Dispensary (wellpetdispensary.com). p. 18 Nadia Ali is a freelance writer from London, who currently resides in the Caribbean. Her adopted shelter cat, Cici, who has now passed on, still serves as her inspiration to write about beloved companion animals. You can follow Nadia on Twitter at @NadiaAwriter. p. 72 Jennifer Hinders is a freelance writer, editor and dog lover who lives in Fairfax, Virginia (jhinders.com). p. 48

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Sally Bahner specializes in cat-related issues, specifically behavior, nutrition, and holistic care. She is author of The Art of Raising a Kitten. Sally is an award-winning member of the Cat Writers’ Association and the Society of Professional Journalists, and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. p. 60 Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs for two Humane Societies. Andrea and her dog were also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She has taught group and private classes, and is a strong proponent of positive training methods. p. 22 Patricia Herlevi is a lifestyle journalist, Reiki practitioner and animal communicator. She practices Reiki and other healing modalities for animals and their guardians. Patricia completed a memoir about fostering the family dog, which led to her pursuing certification as an animal communicator. She resides in rural Pennsylvania. p. 52 Celeste Huttes is a freelance writer specializing in corporate communications — but she finds it far more fun to write about animals! When she’s not writing, Celeste enjoys yoga, walks in the park, and spending quality time with family, friends and pets. She shares her Central Illinois home with Emmy the Siamese cat and Bindi Furwin, a miniature poodle mix who loves to run with the big dogs. p.75 Joni Kamlet is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Assistant (CCRA). For over a decade, she has worked in the supplement industry, teaching veterinarians and animal parents about holistic options. Her experience encompasses nutrition, canine rehabilitation, Western herbal medicine, functional medicine and her favorite modality, therapeutic mushrooms. p. 18 Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats With a BIG Attitude. Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. She is the founder of Purrs of Wisdom with Ingrid King, where she writes about all things feline. For more information, visit IngridKing.com. p. 46 Ramona D. Marek, MS Ed, is an award-winning writer, and author of Cats for the GENIUS. She writes about pet care, health and behavior, and cats in the arts. Her feline muses are Tsarevich Ivan, a joie de vivre silver tabby Siberian, and Natasha Fatale, a full-time diva dressed as an “anything but plain” brown tabby. Read more about Ramona and her work at RamonaMarek.com p. 28 Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the authors of ACU-DOG: A Guide to Canine Acupressure, ACU-CAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure and ACUHORSE: A Guide to Equine Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources, which offers books, manuals, online training courses, DVDs, apps, meridian charts, consulting, and many more acupressure learning tools. Contact animalacupressure.com or tallgrass@animalacupressure.com. p. 70 Melody Tavitian-Parra is a UCLA graduate, majoring in English literature and Spanish. While at university, she wrote for UCLA’s LaGente Magazine where she had her own column on Latin flavor in the fashion industry. Melody then went to Puerto Rico for a year to teach English/Writing. She is also an actress, and passionate about animal welfare, film, and health/fitness. Her acting work can be seen on IMDb under Melody Parra p. 42 Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who promotes positive ways to prevent and manage behavior issues. One of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers dog training classes; provides training and behavior services; and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com). p. 16

r t is o l

Co to

s Te

Estrogen

BY KATIE KANGAS, DVM, CVA, CVCP Most people know that hormones are important for regulating body systems. These natural chemicals impact systems and metabolism on almost every level of the body, and also have a significant influence on behavior and mood — not only in ourselves, but in our dogs as well. Read on for a discussion of the most common hormones and how they affect your dog’s health and behavior.

DEFINING HORMONES A hormone is a chemical transmitter substance produced by cells in the body. It is transported through the bloodstream to the cells and organs on which it has a specific regulatory effect. In other words, hormones act as chemical messengers within the body, in order to stimulate or suppress certain processes or actions.

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON PLAYERS? There are dozens and dozens of different hormones in the body, but the most well-recognized players include:

• Testosterone

• Thyroid hormone

• Estrogen

• Growth hormone

• Adrenaline

• Insulin

• Cortisol

• Melatonin

Animal Wellness

From estrogen and testosterone to adrenaline and cortisol, your dog’s hormones have a profound impact on their well-being — physically, mentally and emotionally.

How do your dog’s hormones affect their health and behavior?

M e

str on

Sero ton in

t la

Additionally, specific neurotransmitters act as hormones in the body, and these include serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. All these hormones act within complex networks collectively referred to as the endocrine system. The endocrine system is a network of glandular organs that produce and regulate hormones to control and coordinate the body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, response to injury and/or stress, and mood. Crucially important glands within the endocrine system include: • Hypothalamus

• Thymus

• Pineal gland

• Adrenal gland

• Pituitary gland

• Pancreas

• Thyroid gland

• Ovaries

• Parathyroid gland

• Testes

The gut (gastrointestinal tract) also acts as an endocrine gland since it works with endocrine cells, neurons, and immune cells, using gut peptides as signaling substances. In fact, some of the hormones in the gut are also found in the brain, which supports the concept of the gut-brain axis (see page 32 for more on the gut-brain axis).

HORMONAL IMBALANCES AND ENDOCRINE DISEASES These health problems are very common in our canine companions, and appear to be on the rise. There are many reasons for this, such as:

1 2 3

Processed foods and toxins: Many toxins are known to be direct endocrine disruptors, and include common pet food preservatives such BPA and BHA, and herbicides in foods such as glyphosate (Roundup). Nutrient deficiencies: Trace minerals such as magnesium, selenium, zinc, potassium and iodine are critically important for the body’s glands to function appropriately. Trace mineral deficiencies are very common in both dogs and humans. Spaying and neutering: Typically, when pets are de-sexed, the gonads (ovaries or testicles) are completely removed, which means the majority of testosterone and estrogen are gone for good. It is important to note that a certain level of sex hormones is crucially important for sustaining normal health and well-being.

Neurotransmitters that act like hormones Interestingly, testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone have been found to affect serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a “feel-good” chemical or neurotransmitter that functions like a hormone. It’s reported that sex hormones increase the uptake of serotonin by influencing the serotonin receptors. Dopamine and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) are other neurotransmitters that act as hormones and chemical messengers for the brain. Both these substances have positive impacts on mood and behavior as well. It is now known that many key chemicals and hormones used by the brain and nervous system are produced in the gut, and these include serotonin, dopamine and GABA. This is one reason why the gut-brain axis is so important. Serotonin is specifically known to impact mood and anxiety and has been termed the “happy chemical” because it contributes to happiness and well-being. It is estimated that 70% of serotonin is made in the gut. Dopamine is involved in motor function, mood, decision-making, and hormone control. Reports estimate that around 50% of dopamine is produced in the gastrointestinal tract by gut cell neurons. GABA regulates stress, anxiety, and sleep patterns, and is known to be modulated by bacteria in the gut microbiome. This means gut bacteria communicate with the brain and can directly influence mood and behavior. In fact, some canine-specific studies have demonstrated a relationship between a dog’s gut microbiome and their behavior tendencies for aggression or anxiety. Animal Wellness

As it turns out, the only other glands in the body that can produce some sex hormones are the adrenal glands. This means the adrenal glands in a spayed or neutered dog are placed under extra stress and demand throughout the animal’s lifetime. The adrenal glands are also responsible for regulating and releasing adrenaline and cortisol hormones, which is in itself a big job. Adrenaline is the hormone released during the body’s fight or flight response, triggered when stressful events occur. Cortisol is also released by the adrenals in fight or flight scenarios, and is continually released in chronic stress situations. Ongoing stressors for dogs can include things like chronic pain, chronic itching due to allergies, environmental stressors, household upsets, separation anxiety, etc.

CHRONIC ANXIETY AND THE HPA AXIS Chronic anxiety is becoming more common in animals, with growing numbers of dogs being placed on prescription medications to manage it. The common metabolic causes of anxiety include HPA dysfunction, compromised gut health, and nutrient deficiencies. • T he HPA axis describes the hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal system, which is known as the command center and communication feedback system in the part of the brain that senses stress. The HPA axis controls reactions to stress and regulates digestion and the immune system, as well as mood and emotions. • W hen this system is continually firing under conditions of chronic stress, the negative feedback loop mechanism (which normally keeps things in check) can break down. This HPA dysfunction is recognized as a cause of chronic anxiety. • I f the situation continues, this dysfunction can lead to adrenal gland depletion, otherwise known as adrenal fatigue. Other health conditions associated with adrenal dysfunction include Cushing’s and Addison’s diseases. All these adrenal gland conditions can affect a dog’s behavior, causing everything from anxiety and restlessness to low energy and fatigue.

ESTROGEN AND TESTOSTERONE If your dog is still sexually intact, they will have higher levels of sex hormones — i.e. testosterone in males and estrogen

Animal Wellness

and progesterone in females. These can certainly also affect behavior and mood • T estosterone is known to influence confidence, dominance, and potentially aggression. However, this is not to say a neutered dog won’t display these behaviors. In fact, some dog parents see their dogs’ aggressive or reactive behaviors actually heighten after neutering; it appears that, in some circumstances, removing the confidence-supporting testosterone hormone could lead to more fear-related aggression behaviors. This demonstrates that hormones have very complex effects on the body, mind and mood. • E strogen is known to help regulate mood. In human women, low levels of estrogen are shown to influence anxiety, depression and stress. • P rogesterone is a “feel good” hormone that has a calming effect. In female dogs, progesterone is released after ovulation during the heat cycle, whether they are bred or not (even if they do not become pregnant), and continues to be measured at high levels for many weeks after. In conclusion, it’s clear that hormones exert vast effects on the body and directly influence the emotional and mental well-being of our dogs and ourselves.

Supporting your dog’s hormonal balance You can support your dog’s endocrine system and hormonal balance in many proactive ways.

Choose a high quality, minimally processed or fresh food diet with species-appropriate ingredients.

Add trace mineral supplements (such as kelp).

Support adrenal gland function with nutritional supplements, adaptogenic herbs, and/or mushroom supplements (such as Reishi).

Support your dog’s gut health.

Done properly (under the guidance of an integrative or holistic veterinarian), this is an excellent strategy for maintaining your dog’s hormonal balance, mood, and overall well-being.

TEACH YOUR DOG NOT TO FEAR LOUD NOISES by Tonya Wilhelm

Thunder, fireworks, and other loud noises turn many dogs into nervous wrecks. Here’s how to prevent a fear reaction from developing in your own dog, so he’ll learn to take scary sounds in stride.

Do a quick internet search on how many dogs are afraid of noises like fireworks and thunder, and you’ll find around 30% suffer from this anxiety. That’s a lot of noise-phobic dogs. Noise phobia is one of the hardest behavioral issues to deal with because you can’t control either Mother Nature or neighbors celebrating the Fourth of July. Additionally, once a dog is in panic mode, there’s no room for reasoning. So it’s vital to start teaching your dog not to fear loud noises as soon as possible after you first bring him home.

GETTING STARTED This preventive program is for dogs that do not already have a phobia of loud noises. If your dog or puppy is already severely frightened by fireworks, thunder and other noises, seek the help of a canine behaviorist. Don’t assume he’ll outgrow his fear because that typically doesn’t happen. In fact, fears tend to escalate if not treated. TIP: It’s important to not scare your dog during training.

Animal Wellness

What you want to do is slowly introduce various noises and pair them with something extra positive, fun, or tasty. In short, you’ll be teaching him that “noise = reward” That’s it. Your dog doesn’t do anything; this training is strictly about teaching him that something potentially scary is a very good thing. If he learns that something is good, he won’t be scared, worried, or concerned. That’s the goal.

DESENSITIZATION AND COUNTERCONDITIONING

Thunder Grab some incredibly tasty dog treats, such as cooked or dehydrated meat. Hop online and search for thunderstorm sounds. Turn the volume down so it’s just audible, and hit play on the thunderstorm track. When you hear that first crack of thunder, toss your pup a treat. Repeat the

process after each rumble. If your dog is showing no signs of worry, increase the volume slightly, and once again toss a treat at each rumble of thunder. Remember, you are just teaching your dog that thunder means good things and bonuses. This is the counterconditioning part. Training sessions can be short and sweet. Two to five minutes is all you need to make an impact. Each time you set up a training session, find a different audio track; or even better, practice in a different location. You want to try to make it feel as real as possible and not just a training setup. TIP: At the start of each session, turn the volume lower than where you had it at the end of the last session, In other words, if you ended your last training session at a volume of five, start with three or even two on the next, and work up again. Slow and steady wins the race.

Fireworks The other biggie is fireworks. As you can probably guess, the setup will be very similar to your thunder training. However, instead of waiting for the end boom of the firework, start rewarding your dog when you hear the whistling that comes before the explosion. Again, start with the volume very low and gradually increase it over time.

Real-life training Along with creating the above training scenarios, take advantage of real-life situations as well. I’m a firm believer that a good training program means having tasty treats on me at all times. Why? Because I never know when a car is going to backfire or a jackhammer might start up. When they do, I immediately feed my dog a tasty treat.

SIGNS OF NOISE PHOBIA

I can tell you from experience that living with a thunderand-noise-phobic dog is life-changing, and not for the better. It's extremely stressful for both canine and human family members. While fear is a normal response in dogs, phobias can take that normal response and turn it into something else entirely. A normal response may include jumping up when startled; however, once the dog realizes everything’s okay, he soon settles down again. In the case of a phobia, the dog may not be able to settle back down. I once had a dog that would go into a panic — defecating, eating the walls, knocking over everything in sight, panting and digging the carpet. As you can imagine, this is a very traumatic and potentially dangerous situation. In a dog with noise phobia, these episodes can be triggered by even a low rumble of thunder in the distance.

OTHER NOISES

Don’t stop your training at thunder and fireworks. Dogs often become fearful of other noises such as smoke detectors, vacuum cleaners, cars backfiring, trucks backing up, etc. It's a good idea to really listen to the different noises in your environment, and sprinkle them into your training program as well.

TIP: Every noise can be used as a valuable training lesson. Dogs go through various fear periods during the first two years of their lives, especially year one. When I brought my new puppy home, I started actively working on noise phobia prevention in his first year. Now, at age 13, he doesn’t even lift his head for any kind of noise!

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MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS

Lion’s Mane mushroom offers healing properties to both people and dogs

by Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS, and Joni Kamlet, RVT, CCRA

A popular mushroom in North America, Lion’s Mane features a range of medicinal benefits for both people and their dogs — from calming anxiety to supporting the gut. As we learned in last issue’s column (Winter 2022), many mushroom species are rich in healing properties. Exploring the medicinal benefits they can offer our dogs gives us another powerful tool for treating certain ailments and maintaining wellness. In this article, we’ll focus on Lion’s Mane, and how it can be used to help dogs with anxiety.

A LOOK AT LION’S MANE Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a highly-prized edible and medicinal mushroom. It goes by several other names, such as hedgehog fungus, monkey head mushroom and pom pom mushroom. I personally like the name “pom pom” because this white puffy mushroom looks like the pom poms on a groomed white standard poodle! Tip: The mature Lion’s Mane mushroom resembles a brain — and interestingly, the brain is where a lot of its medicinal activity occurs.

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Lion’s Mane is found growing in the wild on old or dead broadleaf trees, but is not that easy to find. Recently, mycologists (people who study and grow mushrooms) have figured out how to cultivate this mushroom in the laboratory. Because it’s quite hard to find in nature, Lion’s Mane is a relatively new topic for researchers. However, the ability to cultivate this mushroom on a large scale for both medicinal and culinary use has significantly added to its current popularity, and to the publication of more objective research studies about how it works. These studies also give us a glimpse into what Lion’s Mane can do for canine health.

Factoids about Lion’s Mane

related to discoveries in the 1990s around its effect on nerve growth factor (NGF). More recent clinical studies have supported this discovery.2 This mushroom has not been clinically studied in veterinary Bot anical name: species, but the research so far is very encouraging regarding its potential usefulness for geriatric senility in dogs (also called canine cognitive disorder or CCD). A few pilot trials by Part used: veterinarians using Lion’s Mane to treat patients for CCD have been especially encouraging. Many animal parents are already discovering that Lion’s Mane can be useful for calming their four-legged family members. There are also reports that when

Hericium erinaceus Mushroom Dose:

HOW LION’S MANE IS USED In traditional cultures that utilize mushrooms for health, such as those of Asia and Eastern Europe, Lion’s Mane has been used as both food and medicine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lion’s Mane has found applications for GI health, as it nourishes the gut. It has also been used to support the spleen, and as an anti-cancer agent.

Tip: L ion’s Mane is considered nutritive to the five organs of TCM: the Liver, Lungs, Spleen, Heart and Kidney.

2-5 mg of beta glucans for each pound of body weight daily; can be blended with your dog’s daily meals for ease of administration. Note: Look at the product label to find out its beta glucan content, and use that number to calculate your dog’s dosage.

Main actions: Calming, neuroregenerative, myelinpromoting, nootropic, anti-amyloid, anxiolytic, gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, anti-H. Pylori, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti neoplastic, anti-fatigue, anti-aging.

Main veterinary indications: Cognitive dysfunction, neurological disease, neurological injury, gastrointestinal support, anxiety/depression, cancer support, longevity and aging.

Lion’s Mane is known to promote healthy digestion, and has been recommended for gastric and duodenal ulcers as well as the gastritis that leads to ulcers. Its effect on the body as a whole has been to promote general vigor and strength. Lion’s Mane is also known for its effects on the nervous system, and is commonly used for anxiety, nervous stress, insomnia, weakness and lack of energy.

LION’S MANE’S EFFECTS ON THE BRAIN Recently, Lion’s Mane has been receiving a lot of attention for its effect on brain function and cognition. This is a relatively new use for this mushroom, and is Animal Wellness

Lion’s Mane’s “secret sauce” All mushrooms, including Lion’s Mane, are very fibrous. This indigestible fiber is made up of chitin (the same molecule that makes the shells of crabs and lobsters so hard). The other indigestible fiber source in mushrooms are the ß-glucan polysaccharides, a chain (polymer) of sugar molecules arranged in a triple helix, like DNA. These polysaccharides are extremely effective at “turning on” the immune system. More than 35 Lion’s Mane polysaccharides have been identified so far, and beta glucans are the most common type of this molecule. Published studies have found anti-tumor properties for four of these 35 polysaccharides. The beta glucans and polysaccharides found in Lion’s Mane also have antioxidant properties. They have been found to protect the liver and nervous system from free radicals and oxidative stress. Lion’s Mane also can protect the nervous system from toxicity caused by amyloid ß plaque formation, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Other compounds found in the Lion’s Mane mushroom include terpenoids, which are also found in other mushrooms as well as cannabis. Two classes of these terpenoids are uniquely found in Lion’s Mane mushroom, and in the Lion’s Mane mycelium grown in liquid culture. These terpenoids are the hericenones and erinacines, isolated from the mushroom and mycelium respectively. Both can cross the blood-brain barrier to directly affect the central nervous system. They are neurotrophic (have an affinity for nervous tissue) and appear to be mostly neuroprotective. Erinacine can stimulate the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (bNGF), which can help with the regrowth of nervous tissue following trauma; in the developing brain, NGF plays a large role in neuronal growth and differentiation.1

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related to discoveries in the 1990s around its effect on nerve growth factor (NGF). More recent clinical studies have supported this discovery.2 This mushroom has not been clinically studied in veterinary species, but the research so far is very encouraging regarding its potential usefulness for geriatric senility in dogs (also called canine cognitive disorder or CCD). A few pilot trials by veterinarians using Lion’s Mane to treat patients for CCD have been especially encouraging. Many animal parents are already discovering that Lion’s Mane can be useful for calming their four-legged family members. There are also reports that when Lion’s Mane is combined with CBD and other cannabinoids, the two work together synergistically to create even more profound calming, which is never sedative unless the cannabis also contains some detectable THC.

general health benefits. It may be a lifesaver for older dogs who are getting a little “slow” in their ways. It can also help with digestive function, and its ability to reduce stress and assist memory is great for dogs and their people!

Spelman K, Sutherland E, Bagade A. Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceous). Journal of Restorative Medicine, (2017) 6:19-26.

2 Hirokazu Kawagishi. Chemical studies on bioactive compounds related to higher fungi. Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry, (2021) Vol. 85, No.1, 1-7.

Huang H-T, et al. Hericium erinaceus mycelium and its small bioactive compounds promote oligodendrocyte maturation with an increase in myelin basic protein. Scientific Reports, (2021) 11:6551.

One neurological disorder in dogs that extracts of Lion’s Mane may play a vital role in is degenerative myelopathy (DM). This insidious difficult-to-treat disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting the myelin sheath of the spinal cord. This results in progressive paralysis, starting at the hind end and progressing toward the brain.

Tip: D M is fairly similar to ALS in humans. Published studies found that myelin sheath repair happened significantly more quickly in groups that received Lion’s Mane terpenoid extracts than it did in the control group. No toxic effects were observed.3 Lion’s Mane is a mushroom worth getting to know — if not for its great taste, then for its amazing digestive, cognitive, and Animal Wellness

CANINE BEHAVIOR

Understanding your dog's body language BY ANDREA GRONWALD

Our dogs constantly communicate with us through body language, but we often don’t notice or understand what they’re telling us. By becoming familiar with your dog’s body language, you can interpret how she’s feeling and respond to her needs.

Dogs are excellent communicators. They certainly vocalize, but most of their communication is done through subtle body language. Unfortunately, that body language is often overlooked or misunderstood. When a dog’s communication attempts are consistently ignored — or worse, punished — she will eventually stop communicating. The better you understand your dog’s body language, the better equipped you are to interpret how she’s feeling and address any problems.

Subtle stress signals When a dog is stressed, he’ll first communicate his discomfort through body language. For example, most dog bites do not happen out of the blue; usually, the dog communicates his stress long before he resorts to biting. Recognizing these early signs of stress is important because it allows you to remove your dog from the situation and prevent escalation. Some stress-induced behaviors are very subtle, and therefore easily overlooked. Your dog may display them when he is uncertain or uncomfortable about a particular situation. Pay attention, and you will be surprised to see how frequently your dog is communicating with you, as well as with other people and dogs. You may also discover things your dog doesn’t particularly like that you weren’t aware of. For instance, many dogs do not enjoy being hugged and will become stiff or look away.

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Observe your four-legged friend closely in a variety of situations. Does she turn away when an unfamiliar dog approaches her? Maybe she becomes stiff when someone bends over her or grabs her? Does she yawn repeatedly when a child is handling her? See the sidebar on page 25 for some common canine body language signals and what they signify.

common misconceptions about canine body language Dogs have been part of our lives for a long time, and some misconceptions have been passed on from generation to generation. Often, we anthropomorphize our dogs, but treating them as if they’re human can work to their disadvantage, since their communication and thought process differ from ours.

A WAGGING TAIL IS A SIGN OF HAPPINESS

Not every wagging tail means happiness or friendliness. The position of the tail and the speed of the wagging communicate different messages. To determine the meaning of different tail positions, we need to know the natural or neutral position of the dog’s tail, which can vary depending on the breed. A friendly, happy dog will wag his tail freely, sometimes also wiggling his hips or rotating the tail in full circles. The body is soft and relaxed. Conversely, a stiff body with a fast-wagging or vibrating tail in a vertical position indicates high arousal that could include aggression. A dog that wags his tail slightly when around a new person indicates he is insecure about the meeting.

Here are nine examples of canine body language that frequently lead to misunderstandings:

WHEN A DOG LOOKS “GUILTY”, HE KNOWS HE DID SOMETHING WRONG

Dogs do not feel guilty about anything they did “wrong”, like chewing slippers. They will crouch and avoid eye contact in response to scolding, but they are merely trying to appease.

This dog is on alert, holding the tail straight up.

These dogs do not feel guilty. Their body posture is a response to a person’s upset demeanor.

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A DOG THAT ROLLS OVER WANTS A BELLY RUB

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kle s

Raised hackles — also called piloerection — are a sign of arousal. This signal may indicate aggression but can also be a sign of fear, uncertainty, surprise, or excitement. ha c

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WHEN A DOG LOOKS AWAY, SHE’S IGNORING YOU Your dog is not always ignoring you when she looks away. She may look away in an attempt to appease you if you seem upset with her. Or she may be frightened of something and wants to avoid the scary stimulus.

RAISED HACKLES MEAN AGGRESSION

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in g

This dog is not asking for a belly rub but is in a submissive, fearful position.

og is d Th

True, your dog may invite you to give her a belly rub in this position. But if her body is stiff, her mouth tightly closed, her ears directed back and down, and/ or her tail between her hind legs, she is putting herself in a submissive position out of fear or discomfort, conveying that she would rather be left alone. Also watch for one bent front leg.

IF A DOG DOESN’T COME QUICKLY WHEN CALLED, HE’S BEING STUBBORN

Even if you’ve taught your dog a reliable recall, he may sometimes move slowly when you call him back to you. This behavior annoys a lot of people because they think their dogs are disobedient. Ask yourself if you called your dog in an angry or impatient tone. If so, his slow movements are an attempt to appease you. The angrier your voice, the slower he will move. He may also lower his body while walking towards you.

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citing f ex play.

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Dogs lower their bodies and move slowly to appease and prevent potential escalation.

Body language signals and what they mean • S tiff body: Just like people,

dogs tense up when they are uncomfortable.

• L owered body: Dogs lower their

bodies to appear smaller and less threatening, in an attempt to appease.

• S low movements: Your dog is trying to appease and de-escalate.

• T urning the head or entire body

away, avoiding eye contact: Your dog is trying to appease and de-escalate. He wants to avoid the scary stimulus.

• P anting: When your dog is not hot,

panting is usually stress-related. It can also be a sign of pain.

• D rooling: When your dog drools

without the presence or anticipation of food, it could be stress. Like panting, it can also be a sign of pain.

• L ip/nose licking: This is a quick tongue flick that can easily be overlooked.

• Y awning: When your dog is not tired, yawning is a stress signal. • W hale eye: When your dog exposes

the whites of his eyes, this is usually a sign of stress, anxiety, and/or fear.

• L ifting one front paw: Your dog may

lift one front paw off the ground, ever so slightly, when she feels insecure.

• S hake off: When your dog shakes

her body as if it’s wet, this is a cutoff signal. You can often observe it during play sessions with other dogs when things get a little intense. Your dog may also shake off after you have petted her for a while. She may then walk away, telling you she’s had enough. This can be a sign of stress and often happens after some form of excitement.

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YOUR DOG LICKS YOUR FACE BECAUSE SHE LOVES YOU

When a dog licks your face, it is not necessarily to show affection but to appease you. Dogs lick the faces of other dogs for the same reason. Your dog might lick your face after you’ve done something she feels a bit uncomfortable with, such as cleaning her ears or applying eye drops.

Dogs want to appease when they lick a human’s or another dog’s face.

The author’s dog, Niko, yawns in response to the camera being pointed at him.

IF A DOG SNIFFS THE GROUND OR SCRATCHES HIMSELF INSTEAD OF DOING WHAT HE’S ASKED, HE’S IGNORING YOU Your dog may sometimes sniff the ground or scratch himself after you ask him to do something. He may be distracted by an interesting smell, but most often he’s not willfully ignoring you. Instead, this is his way of thinking and processing. You may see this behavior when you teach your dog something new. He may sniff the ground for a while or stop and scratch himself, then all of a sudden do what you asked for. You can compare this behavior to the fidgeting we sometimes engage in when we think, such as scratching our heads or rubbing our chins.

DOGS YAWN WHEN THEY ARE TIRED OR BORED Yawning doesn’t always mean your dog is tired or bored. In certain situations, it can be a sign of stress.

Your dog may sniff the ground while trying to figure out what he’s being asked to do.

Our dogs constantly communicate with us. Many of their signals are subtle and happen very quickly, so it takes careful observation and practice to recognize them. The more familiar you become with your dog’s body language, the better equipped you are to respond to her needs and interpret how she’s feeling. In fact, learning about canine body language is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog!

Canine facial expressions Some canine facial expressions are easy to read because they resemble a human’s. Squinty or soft eyes, and an open relaxed mouth, remind us of a human smile; meanwhile, a hard stare and pulled-back lips that expose the canine teeth are similar to a person’s angry face.

The similarity between a canine and human happy face can be quite striking.

This dog’s hard stare and exposed canines are a clear warning to stay away. The expression resembles the face of an angry person.

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PET-FRIENDLY HOME DÉCOR

D gs Cats

that’s both functional and fabulous BY RAMONA MAREK

SHARING YOUR HOME WITH A DOG OR CAT DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN SACRIFICING STYLE. TAKE A LOOK AT HOW YOU CAN INCORPORATE YOUR BEST FRIEND’S NEEDS INTO YOUR

Photo courtesy of Jessie Preza

DESIGN AND DECORATING PLANS.

One of Rachel's cats enjoys a sunny windowsill — the curtains and chair cover boast an attractive animal-friendly fabric.

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Most of us treat our dogs and cats like family. And that includes making our homes animal-friendly. Not so long ago, that meant making décor sacrifices to accommodate the needs of our canine and feline friends. Nowadays, though, stylish pet-friendly décor is becoming integral to interior design, bringing elements such as beds and bowls out of hidden recesses and into front and center living (see sidebar on page 25). Meanwhile, making the right choices for flooring materials and fabrics can keep your home looking its best, even if you have multiple animal companions. From DIY projects to remodels to new builds, animal parents are redefining and redesigning living spaces that make their four-legged family members feel welcome, comfortable and safe — without sacrificing style. “Contrary to popular belief, [pets and stylish décor] are not mutually exclusive,” says Rachel Cannon, owner of interior design company Rachel Cannon Limited. “Fabrics and home furnishings have come a long way, allowing our interiors to look beautiful while accommodating our furry friends.”

Look for furniture with tightly-woven fabric in the same color as your dog or cat.

THE BEST FLOORING CHOICES As any dog or cat parent knows, floors can take a beating thanks to claw marks, stains caused by accidents, spilled food and water, tracked litter, and all the other things that come with sharing your home with an animal companion. When choosing animal-friendly flooring, therefore, some choices are better than others. Overall, you want flooring that’s durable, easy to clean, waterproof, and long-lasting. A variety of materials, in a range of price points and personal preferences, fit that need, including tile, wood, engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl. “Hard surfaces like wood or tile are usually best, but if you prefer carpet, try to find one with the Stainmaster seal so cleaning is easier,” says Rachel.

An example of "barkitecture" — an old TV cabinet converted into a stylish dog bed.

Area rugs add warmth and color to easy-to-clean flooring.

To keep carpets looking their best, vacuum once or twice a week, clean high-traffic areas every three to six months, and professionally clean the carpet twice a year.

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Photo courtesy of Jessie Preza

EXTRA TIPS: • I f you like carpet but not the upkeep, consider carpet squares. The individual squares can be removed and replaced if necessary, without the expense of replacing the entire carpet. • A rea rugs add a splash of color, texture, and comfort to a room. Look for materials that are washable, easy to clean, or inexpensive enough to toss when necessary.

PERFORMANCE FABRICS ARE IDEAL Our dogs and cats are a huge part of our lives at home. We curl up on the couch together or invite them to jump on our beds to sleep with us. And we wouldn’t have it any other way. Having the right kind of fabric for furnishings and bedding makes life with animals easier, giving us more time for cuddling and playing, and less time spent cleaning. “I always encourage clients with pets to choose performance fabrics,” says Rachel. “These are fabrics that will release mud, grime, and other accidents, if you’re a good human and allow your animals to get on the furniture. They’re more durable than nonperformance-based fabrics and will save you time and frustration when trying to remove stains.” Characteristics to look for are a tight weave and dense texture that prevent dander, dirt, etc. from penetrating the fabric. Some good choices are microfiber, denim, and canvas. You may also consider the use of outdoor fabrics for casual furniture.

EXTRA TIPS:

Because it's in the form of a drawer, this feeding station can be tucked away when not in use.

FABRICS AND HOME FURNISHINGS HAVE COME A LONG WAY, ALLOWING OUR INTERIORS TO LOOK BEAUTIFUL WHILE ACCOMMODATING OUR FURRY FRIENDS. roller) is important, you will save your sanity if you just ‘go with’ the idea that your animal is going to leave some hair behind. But if the dog or cat is white, dark velvet upholstery will soon become the bane of your existence, regardless of how glamorous it looks at first.”

• A void delicate fabrics such as silk, chenille and velvet. Although they look gorgeous, they’ll soon lose their beauty when you have a dog or cat in the house.

• I t’s a given that fabrics should be durable and easy to care for. Bedding, both your own and your animal’s, should be machine washable.

• “ Upholstery that camouflages animal hair is a life hack,” Rachel says. “Animals shed; it’s what they do! And while regularly cleaning upholstery with lint rollers (I personally have one the size of a paint

Long gone is the notion that you can’t have stylish décor when you share your home with a dog or cat. Add your imagination to a knowledge of available animal-friendly options, and you can easily have both!

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“BARKITECTURE”AND “PURRNITURE” The hottest trend in animal-friendly interior design is “barkitecture” and “purrniture”, which accommodates dogs and cats with custom builtins and other special features, including spa-like washing stations, hubs for leashes, toys, and food storage, and built-in feeding stations. “I have three cats, so when I was renovating my kitchen, I decided to incorporate a low-level drawer for built-in food bowls,” says Rachel. “It's very convenient and can easily be tucked away after mealtime.” • E asy custom options include upcycling everyday items into something your dog or cat can use. For example, cats love to perch in high places, so why not create a hanging basket bed? Securely attach an attractive heavier-weight basket to the wall and add a plush, washable blanket to make a cozy cubby for your kitty. Other ideas include

converting old TV cabinets or vanities without drawers into stylish pet beds. • I f you prefer readymade options, just search the Internet for “stylish pet furniture” for all your dog or cat’s needs, from basic to bougie. You'll find animal furniture to fit any décor, whether traditional or contemporary. Options include end tables that do double duty as dog crates. • C at trees and condos come in all sizes, styles, colours and materials these days, and many make unique design statements as attractive additions to living areas. Some are so striking you may want them in your home even if you don't have a cat — yet! • E ven litter boxes can fit into home décor. Seriously stylish options include “storage benches” and “tables” that provide discreet needs for cool cats.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT DOG OR CAT’S ut-

by Omer Rashid, DVM

D gs Cats

An imbalance in the gut microbiome can affect your dog or cat’s brain and cause changes in their mood and behavior. Learn more about the gut-brain axis and how to support it with diet and supplements. This is the age of communication. Sometimes, though, communications can turn from good to ugly. The same concept applies to the systems in our bodies, and those of our companion animals. For example, did you know that your dog or cat’s gut and brain have been communicating with each other since they evolved into their present forms? And that this bidirectional communication aka the gut-brain axis can sometimes go awry and cause health problems? It’s important to understand your dog or cat’s gut-brain axis, and how to support it to help ensure their overall health and well-being.

UNDERSTANDING THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS As a communication system, the gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being in dogs and cats. It helps regulate the digestive system, and also plays a role in the animal’s immune system and behavior. For instance, the bacteria living in the gut can affect the way the brain functions, which can in turn impact the animal’s mood and behavior.

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There are many different types of bacteria and other microorganisms in the gut that help with digestion and nutrient absorption. When the balance of these microorganisms is disrupted, it can lead to dysbiosis. This can have numerous negative effects on a dog or cat’s health. For example, an imbalance in the gut microbiome may lead to inflammation in the gut, which can affect the way the brain functions. This may cause changes in the animal’s behavior, such as increased anxiety or aggression. In addition, dysbiosis can cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation, which can be uncomfortable and may also lead to changes in the animal’s behavior. Animal parents should be aware of the potential effects of an imbalanced gut microbiome, and take steps to support a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This includes feeding the

FOR YOUR

rain Axis animal a balanced diet, providing them with regular exercise, and avoiding unnecessary medications or antibiotics that can disrupt the gut microbiome.

HOW DIET IMPACTS THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS What you feed your dog or cat can have a significant impact on the gut-brain axis and the overall health of the animal. The food they eat plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of bacteria in the gut, which is essential for proper functioning of the gut-brain axis. Feeding a dog or cat a diet high in processed, low quality ingredients, for example, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis and potential inflammation.

Foods that harm the gut-brain axis The following foods can affect the gut-brain axis, which can impact the way the brain functions, leading to changes in the animal’s mood and behavior. •

•

Processed foods that are high in fillers and low in nutrients can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and lead to dysbiosis. Highly processed or preserved meats, such as deli meats or bacon, which are high in sodium and preservatives, can cause inflammation in the gut and affect the way the brain functions.

•

Sugary treats, such as cookies or candies, are high in simple sugars and can contribute to dysbiosis and gut inflammation.

•

Artificial additives and preservatives, such as food dyes and flavorings, can cause inflammation in the gut and affect the animal’s mood and behavior.

Health ProblemsA

ARISING FROM DISTURBED GUT-BRAIN AXIS

Physical •

Digestive issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, or bloating

•

Skin issues, such as dryness or excessive shedding

•

Allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain foods

•

Chronic inflammation, which can lead to a number of different health problems

•

Impaired immune function, which can make the animal more susceptible to infections and diseases

•

Cognitive decline or neurological disorders

Mental/emotional •

Increased anxiety or aggression

•

Changes in appetite, such as decreased appetite or food-seeking behavior

•

Changes in activity levels, such as increased or decreased activity

•

Changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping

•

Changes in social behavior, such as becoming more or less social

•

Decreased ability to learn or remember Animal Wellness

Artificial additives veterinarian- AND preservatives, SUCH AS FOOD DYES AND FLAVORINGS, CAN CAUSE animal INFLAMMATION IN THE GUT AND AFFECT parent THE ANIMAL'S mood AND behavior. AXIS THE

To help ensure the best possible outcome for your dog or cat, it’s important to have good communication with your vet via a strong veterinariananimal parent axis. An integrative or holistic vet can help you choose the right food to help support your animal’s gut-brain axis. It’s also wise to consult with the vet before starting your dog or cat on any new supplements to ensure they are appropriate and safe. All supplements are not equal, so you need to be sure you’re choosing high quality products from reputable manufacturers.

It’s important to include a variety of different types of foods in your dog or cat’s diet. You may also want to consider incorporating probiotic supplements into their diet to further support the gut microbiome — more on this below.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR GUT-BRAIN AXIS SUPPORT A number of supplements are beneficial to the gut-brain axis in dogs and cats. They can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and support the proper functioning of the gut-brain axis. Here are some examples: •

Foods that support the gut-brain axis

Probiotics contain live beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

•

Be mindful of the type of food you’re giving your dog or cat and choose a diet that is balanced and nourishing to support the health of the gut-brain axis as well as their overall wellness. A diet that’s rich in high quality, natural ingredients can support a healthy balance of gut bacteria and help maintain the proper functioning of the gut-brain axis.

Prebiotics contain nondigestible fibers that act as fuel for the beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping them to thrive.

•

Digestive enzymes help with the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the gut.

•

Anti-inflammatory supplements, such as fish oil or turmeric, can help reduce inflammation in the gut and support overall health and well-being.

A number of different foods can help support the gut-brain axis in dogs and cats, including: •

•

Fresh, whole foods, such as lean meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits — rich in nutrients and help support a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Fermented foods, such as yogurt or kefir — contain beneficial bacteria to support the gut microbiome.

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Knowing something about the communication between your dog or cat’s gut and brain — and what can happen when that communication breaks down — can help you get to the root of a variety of health and behavioral problems, and take nutritional steps to bring things back to balance.

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IN THE NEWS

VIDEO VET APPOINTMENTS LESS STRESSFUL FOR CATS WHAT CAT PARENTS SAID aking a cat to the vet can be extremely stressful, which means people often delay or avoid making appointments for their kitties. Regular healthcare is important to a cat’s well-being, however, so what’s the solution? Recent research from the University of California, Davis, may provide the answer.

A team of researchers measured how cats reacted to in-clinic appointments, versus those conducted by webcam, to evaluate if telemedicine could increase access to care for cat households. The researchers worked with Front Street Animal Shelter in Sacramento to stage mock in-person appointments. They also set up video meetings with the same cats, using webcams. The sessions happened two weeks apart with 30 cats and guardians participating. At each visit, the cats received mock postsurgery checks as though they had been spayed. The researchers documented the cats’ pupil dilation, respiratory rate, lip licking and ear position. For the at-home video sessions, the guardians lifted their cats for visual inspection and counted

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their breaths. All appointments were recorded and photos of the cats’ eyes were taken to measure pupils. The study found that the cats showed increased respiratory rates, larger pupil dilation, and more negative ear positions during the in-person examinations as opposed to the home assessments, indicating increased stress and arousal. “These results support the idea that video appointments could help reduce stress surrounding veterinary appointments in cats,” says Grace Boone, an assistant specialist in animal welfare epidemiology for the Department of Animal Science. In-home assessments could also better reflect health and behavior issues because cats tend to conceal vulnerabilities when in unfamiliar environments. For example, a cat could limp at home, but hide signs of pain at the veterinary clinic. “They might come into the clinic and look just fine,” Boone says. “It may be better to see them at home.”

The cat guardians were also surveyed before and after the appointments to gauge their feelings. They rated the in-person sessions more negatively than the video appointments. “People are less stressed during the appointment if they are home,” says Carly Moody, an assistant animal science professor who runs the UC Davis Animal Welfare Epi Lab.

“Cats tend to not see the vet as much compared to dogs,” she adds. “Telemedicine can fill a gap in care.” ucdavis.edu/news

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HEALING INSIDE & OUT

UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORTING YOUR DOG OR CAT’S NERVOUS SYSTEM by Dr. Jared Mitchell, DVM, CVMA, CVA, CVFT

D gs Cats

Find out why the nervous system is the most important system in your dog or cat’s body, and how to keep it healthy and functioning properly. Our dogs and cats are made up of multiple body systems that come together to form the unique individuals we interact with daily. Of all these systems, none is more important than the nervous system. It’s the body’s main communication network, connecting and coordinating all the functions needed for life. That’s why nurturing and maintaining a healthy nervous system during all phases of your dog or cat’s life is so important. This article explains why this is so vital for wellness, and what you can do to support your own fourlegged friend’s nervous system.

COMMON DISORDERS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM Neurological disorders can affect small areas of the nervous system — or the entire system as a whole — and have many causes, including genetic disorders and malformations, degenerative disorders, infections, trauma, and neoplastic conditions. Here are a few of the most common:

Hydrocephalus:

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the clear fluid that surrounds the entire nervous system and gives it support, nourishment, and protection. CSF originates from multiple sites within the brain, and is absorbed by the body to maintain a proper balance.

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In hydrocephalus, this process is impeded due to increased production, decreased absorption, or a blockage. The result can be an abnormal buildup of CSF, which may create increased pressure on the brain and result in behavioral and neurological complications.

Canine cognitive disorder:

Very similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans, canine cognitive disorder is an age-related disease. As an animal gets older, the cells within the nervous system begin to age and show signs of degeneration. This is complicated by the buildup of betaamyloid, a protein that can cause toxic changes to the neurons As neurons die, the brain loses its normal functioning and processing abilities. Hint: The clinical signs of canine cognitive disorder can mirror those of human dementia and Alzheimer’s — e.g. getting lost in familiar places, increased anxiety, new phobias, irritability, and memory and learning issues.

IVDD: Intervertebral disk disease can be either traumatic

or degenerative. No matter the cause, spinal cord damage can occur and lead to varying neurological signs. •

In degenerative forms of IVDD, the cushiony material between the vertebrae can sometimes become brittle and

1. Detoxify the environment bulge into the cavity containing the spinal cord. This can create pain, pressure, and inflammation, impeding normal neurologic function and leading to an unsteady and wobbly gait (ataxia), with severe cases progressing to paralysis. •

In trauma-caused cases of IVDD, the cushiony material between the vertebrae forcefully enters the spinal canal. This sudden expulsion of material generally creates more severe clinical signs than with other neurological conditions, although the severity of can vary from patient to patient.

Seizures: This is a very complex neurological disorder with numerous causes and varying clinical signs.

Hint: More common causes of seizures include trauma, infections, toxins, certain medications, and nutritional issues. Seizures can be focal (partial), affecting only a small portion of the brain; or generalized (grand mal), affecting both sides of the brain and the animal’s entire body.

STRENGTHENING AND PROTECTING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM Because the nervous system performs such an important role in overall health and well-being, it’s important to protect and nurture it through all phases of your dog or cat’s life, especially as he ages.

An animal’s environment plays a critical role in their health. This is sometimes overlooked in standard veterinary practices; but in integrative and holistic practices, environment is one of the most important aspects when considering a treatment and wellness plan for the whole animal. Hint: B oth humans and animals are exposed to a constant barrage of environmental toxins. While some are easy to identify, others are more obscure. They can all create major issues for the nervous system. Providing an environment that’s as toxin-free as possible positively influences the nervous system and its effects on other aspects of the body.

2. Provide a quality diet and exercise While specific energy and dietary requirements may differ for dogs and cats at different life stages, one thing is certain — a well-balanced, properly-fed, species-specific diet is essential for proper nervous system function. Without it, the neurons will not have the energy needed to perform at optimal levels. Nor will they be able to grow and heal properly. Adequate exercise is also important for maintaining the nervous system, as well as for overall health. The more active an animal is, the more stimulation the nervous system receives. Exercising can help some behavior issues by keeping the dog or cat active and reducing stress and anxiety.

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM DEVELOPS EARLY As one of the most crucial body systems, the nervous system develops early in the embryonic stage of an animal. It is a tubular structure originating from the proliferation of ectodermal cells known as the neuroectoderm. As embryonic development continues, the thickened ectoderm invaginates, creating the neural canal. As the stages of embryonic development and gestation continue, a multitude of cellular processes and anatomical changes occur, creating the functioning nervous system we’re familiar with.

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WHAT MAKES UP THE NERVOUS SYSTEM?

Hint: Routine exercise and proper diet also benefit cognitive function and help with proper posture and balance.

The nervous system is often spoken of as a singular system. However, this is not the case. In fact, the nervous system is divided into multiple components with unique subdivisions and responsibilities. •

The central nervous system (CNS) is comprised of the brain and spinal cord.

•

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is composed of the cranial and spinal nerves, which transmit sensations such as pain, temperature, touch, and taste to the CNS.

•

3. Reduce stress Stress negatively affects health, including that of the nervous system. Chronic stress can impair the brain’s ability to produce new neurons and nervous system connections. The nervous system may consequently not heal properly and may remain constantly in a heightened state, damaging neurologic health. Brain health is closely intertwined with gut health. Good digestive health, including a proper balance of microflora in the gastrointestinal tract, means the brain and nervous system can perform at their highest levels, thus improving mood and overall health. Probiotics can be very powerful for maintaining proper gut health, and can also benefit brain and nervous system health.

4. Give them the right supplements Many vitamins and other supplements can help maintain or improve nervous system function. Some may be found within a high quality species-specific diet, while others may need to be supplemented.

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is the “automatic” part of the system

• B vitamins are known for their neurotrophic abilities. This means they help support the growth, maturation, and function of both developing and mature nervous system cells, such as neurons.

and does not require thought or voluntary control. The ANS can be further divided into the parasympathetic and the sympathetic

•

nervous systems.

Omega-3 fatty acids are often associated with improving allergic skin disorders and joint issues. Numerous studies show that their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits also improve brain health and nervous system function.

5. Consider acupuncture, chiropractic, and more Many other options can maintain or improve the function of your dog or cat’s nervous system. Some are centered around pain control and a return to function, while others are primarily used as integrative or all-natural methods of controlling the pain associated with the disease. •

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Acupuncture and chiropractic can be utilized for pain control, and with certain neurological conditions to restore function within the nervous system.

•

Medical massage such as Tui-na can also provide relief and a faster return to function.

Hint: A nother option that has proven very beneficial for treating nervous system conditions is laser therapy. It is non-invasive and well-received by the animal. •

Other integrative and holistic options can include essential oils, homeopathy, shock wave therapy, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, and energy medicine (such as Reiki). Full veterinary rehabilitation services are also more accessible than they were in the past.

AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH MAY BE BEST FOR SOME CASES Sometimes, neurological conditions may require more than holistic treatment. In these cases, which include some acute spinal cord disorders and trauma, medications may need to be considered as part of the treatment protocol. Having a good working relationship with an integrative veterinarian allows for the best treatment plan. Balancing holistic options with other medical treatments and pharmaceuticals, when critically needed, will provide benefits

SOME PARTING THOUGHTS

from both aspects of veterinary

Knowing how complicated and important the nervous system is, it can be easy to feel intimidated when it comes to providing it with the proper care. But there is no reason to be “nervous” about the nervous system! Providing the safest, healthiest, most non-toxic environment possible; feeding a species-specific diet; and providing the proper supplements and whole-body care when appropriate will help ensure your dog or cat maintains a healthy nervous system all their life.

improved outcomes.

medicine, and often lead to

NATURAL REMEDIES

BY MELODY TAVITIAN-PARRA

Lipomas are common in dogs, especially as they get older. In most cases, these fatty lumps are harmless and can be treated with dietary and lifestyle changes, along with herbs and other alternative therapies.

Any time we spot something different or unusual on our dogs’ bodies, it can set off alarm bells, especially when it appears in the form of a lump or bump. As dog parents, our minds immediately start racing, and we frantically ask ourselves things like: “When did I last feel that spot? Are there any more bumps? Could it be the C word?” Often, however, these lumps turn out to be lipomas, common and usually harmless fatty masses. This article explains what lipomas are, and how they can be treated naturally.

UNDERSTANDING LIPOMAS A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that can be found in dogs of any age, but is seen most frequently in older canines. A lipoma is round or oval in shape, appears under the skin, is soft and squishy, and mobile to the touch. Sometimes lipomas simply appear with age, due to a dog’s metabolism slowing down and the body not eliminating fat and toxins as efficiently as it does in a younger canine. Other times, lipomas are genetic in origin. Another lesser-known cause of lipomas is related to doggy apparel, such as coats and sweaters, as well as harnesses.

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When buying canine clothing and gear, it’s important to ensure they don’t fit too tightly. This will help prevent the stagnation in circulation that’s associated with fatty cell overgrowth. A lipoma can be tiny — the size of a rice grain or pea — but it can also grow larger. Some lipomas reach the size of tennis balls or grapefruits. Because lipomas consist of fat, they cause no pain to your dog, and surgical removal is only recommended if it’s in a spot that impedes your dog’s mobility, such as near an armpit or hind leg.

Flag it:

Although the majority of lipomas are harmless, any new lump or bump on your dog should be brought to your veterinarian’s attention in order to rule out something more serious.

MONITORING IS IMPORTANT Veterinarian Dr. Ellen Choi recommends “monitoring a lipoma if your dog is experiencing no pain or discomfort, as surgical removal does not guarantee the lipoma will not reappear in the same spot.” She also warns that lipomas can possibly appear again on another part of the dog’s body. Dr Choi favors keeping an eye on a lipoma by measuring it each time your dog visits the veterinarian. By accurately tracking it, both you and your vet can gather a better picture of whether it has grown, shrunk or remains the same size as time goes on. If a dog is showing no signs of distress, and no changes in their daily habits, Dr, Choi also advises against aspirating a lipoma (taking a small sample of the lump with a fine needle) to determine whether or not it is cancerous.

Flag it: “Only around 50% of samples

taken [from lipomas] yield accurate results, since the sample only accounts for the cells being withdrawn from that one spot rather than the whole growth,” says Dr. Choi. “And it is very rare that lipomas become cancerous.”

Some studies have also shown that aspirating a lipoma may irritate the area, promoting additional growth.

DIETARY AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES MAY HELP Certain lifestyle adjustments can be made to your dog’s routine to help prevent lipomas from forming, or to optimize their chances of shrinking and disappearing. Veterinarian Dr. Kim Park says that a lowfat diet rich in natural ingredients and free of chemicals and preservatives, along with moderate exercise and a healthy weight, are all essential to preventing lipomas as well as helping to stunt and reduce their growth. Animal Wellness

In some instances, overweight dogs that shed their extra pounds significantly reduced or eliminated their lipomas; since these growths are made of fatty cells, a low-fat lifestyle makes sense.

Flag it:

Supplements containing herbs such as violet, cleavers, calendula, dandelion or chickweed can help combat lipomas by boosting your dog’s waste removal systems, such as the lymphatic system, and increasing toxin removal from the liver and kidneys. Chickweed, for example, helps break up fat in the body, while dandelion boosts liver function for eliminating toxins. Be sure to work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian when adding herbs or other supplements to your dog’s diet.

The lymphatic system moves toxins out of your dog’s body, and can be strengthened externally as well as internally. Additionally, from an Eastern medicine perspective, lipomas can be an expression of stagnant blood flow or energy in the liver and kidneys. Physical treatments such as chiropractic, acupressure/ acupuncture, and massage can all help get the energy and blood flowing properly again, and enhance toxin removal from the body.

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“Get blood work done for your pup if you notice any changes in their eating habits or energy levels, in order to ensure that the lipoma is not a side effect of underlying illness and that all vital systems and organs — especially the liver and kidneys, which play a major role in eliminating toxins from the body — are in proper health,” advises Dr. Kim Park.

If your dog has an existing lipoma, avoid putting pressure on the area and always keep it clean. For example, if he has a lipoma near his armpit, it may be a good idea to switch to a harness that doesn’t press down on the growth. Although lipomas may be worrisome at first glance, they are mostly always harmless and your dog will continue leading a happy, healthy life. Before assuming that any new lump or bump is a lipoma, however, make sure to get them checked out by a veterinarian, just in case. If it does turn out to be a lipoma, monitoring its growth, making some adjustments to your dog’s diet and lifestyle, and adding in herbs and alternative therapies (see sidebar), may help shrink or even eliminate it.

FORWARD PLANNING

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOR CATS by Ingrid King

Having to evacuate due to a disaster can be particularly stressful for cats. Here’s how to create a feline-friendly emergency plan for your kitties. Natural disasters are becoming more frequent. Wildfires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards: any of these may force you to leave your home on short notice. Evacuating is often easier for dogs, and some may even consider it a fun adventure; simply clip on a leash and a dog will follow you anywhere. But most cats are creatures of habit, and having their normal routines and environments disrupted results in stressed-out kitties that may end up running and hiding. It’s therefore crucial to have a cat-friendly emergency plan in place in the event you ever have to leave your home in a hurry. For a comprehensive plan, consider the following suggestions and tips.

GET HIM USED TO HIS CARRIER Train your cat to accept being in his carrier long before an actual emergency occurs. If he only ever enters it when it’s time to visit the vet, he’ll have a negative association with it. Leave the carrier in an easily-accessible location where your cat spends a lot of time, and make it attractive with treats or food, or by creating a cozy napping spot inside it. Some carriers double as comfortable beds, making them ideal for emergency situations. By making your cat’s carrier a familiar part of his environment, he is much more likely to go into it without fuss during an emergency.

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More tips

•

If you have multiple cats, make sure you have one carrier for each. It is generally not a good idea to put more than one cat inside the same carrier. Even if your cats are comfortable with each other, they will feel stressed in an emergency situation and that can lead to uncharacteristic behavior, including aggression.

•

Since your cat may spend a considerable amount of time inside his carrier during an emergency, it should be large enough for him to comfortably stand up and turn around in.

•

Label each carrier with the cat’s name, your contact information, and any other pertinent info (for example, medications the cat may need).

•

Make sure each cat has identification. They should be microchipped, and ideally, wearing a collar bearing their name and your contact information.

It is generally not a good idea to put more than one cat inside the same carrier.

PUT TOGETHER A FELINE EMERGENCY KIT Prepare an emergency supply kit that contains enough food, water, and litter to last several days. Consider using disposable dishes and litter pans for this purpose. If your cat is on medication or supplements, keep a supply sufficient for several days in the kit, along with copies of your cats’ health and vaccination records in the event you must go to a shelter.

•

Make sure all members of your household are familiar with the evacuation plan. It can be helpful to designate a meeting place outside the home if communications are disrupted and you become separated.

•

Never evacuate without your cat, even if you think you may only be gone for a short time. By their very nature, emergencies are unpredictable, and you may not be able to get back to your home as quickly as you hope.

•

Place emergency stickers on doors and windows to alert emergency personnel that there are cats inside the home. These stickers are available online or from your local fire department.

More tips •

Check the contents of your kit on a regular basis to update information as needed, and replace potentially expired medications or food.

•

Products such as Bach’s Rescue Remedy can help keep cats calm in emergency situations. Have these on hand both before a potential emergency and as part of your emergency kit. If your cat is extremely anxious, discuss anti-anxiety medication with your veterinarian for use when all else fails.

More tips

We all hope to never have to put an emergency plan into action, but being prepared will save you precious time, help keep your cat calmer — and may just save his life.

PLAN WHERE TO GO

CONSIDER HOLDING AN EMERGENCY DRILL

If possible, make arrangements to stay with friends or relatives in other areas not affected by the disaster. Otherwise, make a list of hotels that will accept cats both in your immediate area and along the evacuation route. You may also consider boarding your cat at a nearby veterinary hospital or boarding facility, but bear in mind that during a widespread disaster, these businesses may be affected as well.

Because everyone’s stress levels will be heightened during a disaster, even the best laid plans may go awry without practice. Consider doing periodic emergency exercises to test your plan and get your cats used to the drill.

Never evacuate without your cat, even if you think you may only be gone for a short time. Animal Wellness

s g o D Do Dream?

DID YOU KNOW?

The answer is yes! Take a look at what we know about canine sleep patterns, why dogs dream — and what they dream about!

by Jennifer Hinders

On occasion, you’ve probably noticed your dog yipping or quivering in his sleep, as if he’s chasing a squirrel. You most likely assumed he was dreaming. But was he? Do dogs really dream, and how can we know for sure? This article focuses on the phenomenon of canine dreams, and why they’re so important to your dog’s well-being.

HOW DO WE KNOW DOGS DREAM?

Dr. Dodman. “Canine brain proportions are different — for example, they have a larger olfactory lobe for smelling, and their cerebral lobe for thinking is smaller — but the brain structure is almost identical to a human’s.” Studies indicate that canine brain wave patterns are also similar to ours, and that dogs go through the same stages of sleep that we do. Both dogs and humans experience rapid eye movement sleep cycles (REM) and non-REM sleep cycles (deep sleep). Your dog has a shorter sleep cycle than you do — only 45 minutes compared to your 70 to 120 minutes. Dogs go through the REM and non-REM sleep cycle twice, with each REM or dreaming cycle lasting around six minutes.

“Yes, dogs dream!” affirms Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a worldrenowned animal behaviorist, and founder of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies (centerforcaninebehaviorstudies.org). “When your dog goes to sleep, he seems out cold for a while. He’s in a deep sleep, but then at a certain point, he starts to twitch and move his paws as if moving through molasses. He’s held in check because his paws aren’t on the ground. There might also be vocalization.”

DREAMING IS IMPORTANT TO WELL-BEING

But how do we know the dog is actually dreaming? “First of all, the dog’s brain is structurally similar to ours,” explains

Dreaming is actually an important process, not just for humans, but for animals as well.

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When we sleep, all the information we take in during the day gets consolidated or organized. A purging of unnecessary memories also occurs during sleep. The same process happens in dogs, which means your canine companion needs deep sleep not just to rest his mind, but to experience the health benefits of dreaming. For example, studies show that dreaming enhances your dog’s ability to learn, and to remember what he’s learned. Just as we dream about human activities, research indicates that dogs dream about canine activities — whether it’s chasing the aforementioned squirrel, playing with another dog, or defending their territory against an intruder. You can see signs of what your dog might be dreaming about when you watch him sleep — he might whine or growl, bare his teeth, move his limbs, and his eyes will move beneath the lids, as if he’s looking around him.

HOW TO HELP YOUR DOG SLEEP BETTER Because dreaming depends on good sleep patterns (see sidebar on page 50), it’s important to ensure that your dog has healthy sleep habits. If they have difficulty sleeping, try some of these suggestions to help:

Dreaming requires good sleep patterns In order to experience the benefits of dreaming, dogs need to get adequate sleep. Dogs are polyphasic sleepers, which means they will sleep on and off during the day. They can fall asleep anywhere and at any time. Humans, meanwhile, are monophasic sleepers because we sleep for one long period, usually seven to nine hours at night. How long a dog sleeps changes depending on their life stage:

• Puppies require lots of sleep because their bodies are growing and developing. They require at least 18 to 20 hours of sleep daily. They can fall asleep even in the middle of play. Once a puppy reaches a year old, their sleeping habits resemble those of an adult dog. • A dult dogs sleep mostly at night. They might lounge around and doze off during the day, but this sleep usually isn’t as deep as it is at night. Most adult dogs get eight to 13 hours of sleep daily. • O lder dogs, above ten years of age, may spend more time sleeping during the day. They like to stay alert when their humans are around, but you'll catch them taking a nap while you're watching television. It's estimated that senior dogs sleep anywhere from 18 to 20 hours a day.

Be sure your dog gets enough exercise There’s an old saying: “A tired dog is a good dog.” A better one might be: “A tired dog is a happy dog.” A well-exercised dog is physically and mentally healthier, better adjusted and calmer. Active dogs sleep more soundly.

Create a bedtime routine for your dog Just as you do better when you have a regular bedtime routine, so does your dog. Dogs need to learn that nighttime is when they should calm down.

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You might walk your dog before bed, but not as briskly as in the morning. After they’ve done their business, it’s time to settle down for the night. It’s easiest when you and your dog have the same sleep schedule.

Ensure a comfortable environment Dogs sleep best at home. Unfamiliar places and noises distract or upset them. Provide a comfortable place for your dog to sleep. They may want to sleep with you, which is fine, but be sure everyone can sleep soundly in this situation. If your dog interrupts your slumber, it might be best for them to have their own bed. Like us, dogs dream. Also like us, they dream in color (see sidebar below), and most likely about what they did during the day. You might not be able to determine exactly what your dog is dreaming about, but if he looks happy when he’s sleeping then it may have something to do with his favorite human — you!

Do dogs dream in black and white? "Some people think dogs only see in black in white, but it's not true," says Dr. Dodman. "Dogs do see colors, although their vision is dichromatic. They don't see reds but can see blues and greens quite well. Dogs see these colors in the real world, so there is no reason they should dream only in black and white."

IS DENTAL HEALTH REALLY ABOUT PLAQUE AND TARTAR? by Emily Stein, PhD

Animal parents can be very diligent about dental maintenance, yet still end up paying for tooth extractions. Extractions correlate with shortened lifespans, and any event that causes a wound or breach in the gum tissue can cause transient bacteremia — aka, blood poisoning.1-4 So what do we really need to know when it comes to our animals’ dental hygiene? FACT #1: Dental disease is caused by oral microbes that inhabit every millimeter of soft tissue (tongue, cheeks, gums); the immune system then begins to attack that soft tissue. FACT #2: Dental cleanings and brushing temporarily dislodge microbes on the surfaces of teeth and gums, but the microbes re-attach to those surfaces within minutes after physical detachment, and continue with the same destructive behaviors as before. FACT #3: Teeth need to be extracted because the soft tissue holding them in place degrades through the actions

of certain microbes and your animals’ uncontrolled immune response. FACT #4: Dogs and cats without any plaque or tartar can develop dental disease. (Plaque and tartar buildup does not cause dental disease; it does correlate with dental disease in dogs and cats that harbor certain problematic oral microbes.) FACT #5: Dental disease is actually a soft tissue disease, and indicators of gum health (healthy pink coloring) should be monitored to keep your animal’s mouth healthy.

For example, TEEF’s Protektin™ prebiotic formulations focus on improving the oral microbiome. It leverages plant-derived ingredients to stop microbes from creating byproducts that cause dental disease and bad breath. Emily Stein, PhD, founded Primal Health (TEEF for Life) in 2017 to focus on improving the dental health of both humans and animals by producing oral microbiome modulation products. She has spent 12 years developing Selective Microbial Metabolism Regulation Technology (SMMRT™) at Primal Therapies, Inc., which is focused on using metabolic influencers to re-engineer disease-causing bacterial biofilms into those that are healthpromoting, to decrease inflammation and improve outcomes.

ijhsr.org/IJHSR_Vol.5_Issue.1_Jan2015/17.pdf

Here are some things you can do to help your dog or cat with dental hygiene: •

Learn about the signs of gum inflammation (discoloration/ redness, swelling, bleeding, erosion) and do frequent visual exams of your animal’s gum tissue.

ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circulationaha.107.758524

https://europepmc.org/article/med/10769852

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27501497/

GINGIVITIS

•

Limit treats, dental chews and kibble, which tend to be chockfull of carbohydrates; many dental disease-associated microbes depend on carbs.

•

Keep your dog or cat well-hydrated. Drinking fresh water periodically throughout the day washes away the microbial toxins in the mouth.

•

Keep your animals’ immune system and oral microbiome healthy with a diverse diet, plenty of exercise, and stress/anxiety reduction.

IMPROVED

Learn about non-chew/non-treat dental products that focus on oral microbes or mucosal immune cells.

This is an example of gingivitis, an early form of gum disease, and how adopting oral hygiene practices can significantly reduce disease and promote oral health.

•

Image courtesy of Teefhealth.com.

Dental health has little to do with white teeth free of plaque and tartar. In fact, a dog or cat can have beautiful teeth — and still have dental disease. For over a century, however, veterinary dental education has taught that removing plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, through regular cleaning and brushing, along with feeding dry kibble/dental chews and providing chew toys, are sufficient for dental health. Although these things are important, they’re not addressing the root cause of dental disease, which is microbial.

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NEED TO KNOW

CHOOSING AN ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR FOR YOUR DOG OR CAT By Patricia Herlevi

D gs Cats

Thinking about hiring an animal communicator for your dog or cat? Find out what communicators can and can’t do, and how to choose the right individual for you and your animal. 52

Animal Wellness

Does your dog bark non-stop? Does your cat have a biting problem? If your veterinarian has given your best friend a clean bill of health, and the training techniques you’re using don’t seem to be helping — what’s next? Animal communication may be able to provide you with some answers about why your dog or cat is acting the way he is. But how do you find an animal communicator, and what should you look for when hiring someone? How much does it cost, and what are the benefits? Here’s what you should know.

NOT A MAINSTREAM PROFESSION While you’ll see numerous YouTube channels hosted by animal communicators, along with books written by them, animal communication isn’t a mainstream profession. It’s a practice that lands between pet services and energy healing. It also dovetails with the spiritual realm since some animal communicators are also shamans or spiritual mediums. Some practitioners earn their certificates by studying with respected animal communicators, while others pick up the gift naturally. Whether an animal communicator has formal or informal training, it’s the constant practice that hones the skills needed to communicate with companion animals and their guardians.

DID YOU KNOW?

T he advantage of hiring a communicator with formal training is that they are expected to follow a set of ethical guidelines. For instance, an animal communicator who doesn’t have a medical background cannot legally diagnose, prescribe or treat an animal.

HOW DOES ANIMAL COMMUNICATION WORK? As animal communicators, we work mainly with telepathy, which involves seeing images as symbols, seeing moving images (including of the cat or dog’s previous experiences), or experiencing sensations in our bodies, such as an aching hip or burning face. We might also pick up on scents or other sensations we know are coming from the animal and not our own physical bodies. In working with dogs and cats as an animal communicator, I have received specific messages about their home environments, their people, and even thoughts about their current circumstances.

DID YOU KNOW?

Often, the cat or dog is reflecting an attitude or behavior from their guardian that bothers them.

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER anielle suggests asking yourself the D following questions when choosing an animal communicator for your dog or cat:

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Does the communicator make you feel comfortable when you’re talking or emailing with them? oes she promise to make changes in D your dog or cat? No one can promise that, as animals are their own beings. Does she manage her emotions and energy well? If she gets emotional during the reading, it’s much harder to maintain the connection. oes the animal communicator D present herself on her social media as someone you would actually like? This is extremely important, since liking her will allow you to be more open to the messages from your dog or cat.

For instance, one client contacted me because her cat bit the client’s feet at night when she was sleeping. When I communicated with the cat, she told me her human annoyed her when she wavered back and forth with decisions. When the guardian understood this issue, the cat stopped biting her feet. “In a typical in-person session, the guardian can expect to learn about their animal, from the animal’s point of view,” says animal communicator Danielle MacKinnon. “Sometimes, this is surprising for the guardian but, just like people, each dog or cat sees him/herself through their individual filter. The guardian may believe their animal is anxious, for example, but the animal may share that it’s not anxiety, just shyness. “The guardian learns not only why their animal is experiencing whatever it is they’re experiencing, but also how it relates to their own emotional, mental, and spiritual growth,” adds Danielle. “Animals take advantage of the opportunity to explain more directly to their people how they’re helping them evolve. A cat could tell their human that they’re modeling good boundaries by not allowing anyone to touch them.” Animal Wellness

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

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Hire an animal communicator who is dedicated to their work and has a track record demonstrated by testimonials on their website. Look for certificates and mentions of liability insurance, because these mean the animal communicator takes their profession seriously.

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“It is okay to ask how someone became an animal communicator,” says animal communicator Shirley Scott. “Is it natural, did they study with someone, or did they take classes?”

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Work with a communicator who provides an intake session to acquire information about the dog or cat’s household, a basic background of the animal, and a mention of the behavior or situation that requires work. Animal communicators aren’t mind readers; on the other hand, dumping too much information on them isn’t helpful either.

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“The communicator should have a positive outlook on everything,” says Shirley. “There is always something good in any situation. They need to be gentle and reassuring.”

According to an online search, fees range from $30 a session for a non-professional communicator, to $450 an hour for an inperson session with a professional. The average cost per session is $200, although this varies between in-person and remote sessions; in-person sessions have higher overhead costs.

CHECKLIST OF CONSIDERATIONS When searching for an animal communicator for your own dog or cat, keeps these suggestions in mind: •

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“A recommendation from family or friends who have been pleased with a communication session for their own animals can be especially helpful,” says animal communicator Carol Schultz. “In my professional practice over 20 years, I would estimate 90% of clients have been referrals.”

“Check out several websites, then begin to sense a few animal communicators whom you feel drawn to the most,” adds Carol. “This may be based on their life background, years of experience, noted areas of expertise, articles/ books, client session process, testimonials, posted animal photos, and/or a strong inner sense that the communicator will be a supportive match for you and your needs.”

DID YOU KNOW? Animal Wellness

An animal communicator must ask you for permission before communicating with your dog or cat.

ANIMAL COMMUNICATORS Sue Becker, www.suebecker.net Claudia Hehr, https://claudiahehr.com/ Patricia Herlevi, https://metaphysics4everydayliving.com/animal-reiki-and-communication/ Danielle MacKinnon, www.daniellemackinnon.com Lynn McKenzie, http://lynnmckenzie.com Carol Schultz, www.carolschultz.com Shirley Scott, www.shirley-scott.com

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An ethical animal communicator warns against expectations. This is because animals are unpredictable in their responses; yet even when the guardian’s expectations aren’t met, the session is still successful from the animal’s perspective. Letting go of control about the outcome requires trust that the animal’s situation will be resolved. My own teachers taught me to allow the animal to lead the conversation, and also the experiences of the session. Cats and dogs especially understand us better than we understand ourselves.

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION AND THE VETERINARY COMMUNITY While animal communication isn’t generally accepted by veterinarians, some acknowledge it can be helpful. “I’m not sure it’s a modality that’s widely accepted, [but] I’ve had several clients let me know they have sought out a communicator to assist with certain things,” says veterinarian Dr. Erica Jewel. “I feel you need to connect with the animal communicator on a higher level. It’s helpful to have a conversation to get to know each other, go over expectations, and have a short discussion afterwards about what is found.” Whatever the reason you’re considering an animal communicator for your dog or cat, hiring the right individual is important and can offer many benefits. It’s also an invaluable way to profoundly deepen your bond with your dog or cat. Animal Wellness

HEALTH WATCH

Biofilms

and how they affect your dog D gs Cats or cat

We hear a lot about biofilms these days, but what exactly are they, and what impact can they have on your dog or cat’s health and well-being?

BY JUDY MORGAN, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT

Biofilms are a collective of one or more types of reproducing microorganisms that form a colony or community. These microorganisms can include bacteria, viruses, algae, yeast, protozoa, and fungi. Biofilms exist everywhere in our environment, including on metals, plastics and soil particles, and in and on our bodies and those of our dogs and cats. We encounter biofilms daily in the form of dental plaque, the gunk that clogs household drains, and the slimy coating that forms on unwashed water or food bowls. Although biofilms are a normal occurence, they can also be harmful to both humans and animals. Read on to learn more about biofilms, and how to protect your dog or cat from the hazards they can present.

HOW BIOFILMS FORM A biofilm community forms when certain microorganisms adhere to the surface of an object in a moist environment, and begin to reproduce. The microorganisms secrete a slimy glue-like substance that allows them to form an attachment to any surface. The biofilm community is held together by extracellular polymeric substances (sugary molecular strands), DNA, and proteins, which allow the organisms to resist attacks that would destroy individual cells if they were not part of a colony. Biofilm communities can develop within hours.

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Note: Over 500 bacterial species have been identified in typical dental plaque biofilms.

BIOFILMS ARE FOUND IN HEALTHY ANIMALS Biofilms are part of the normal complement of microbes in many healthy animals. Consider the rumen, the largest compartment of the cow’s stomach. Bacteria colonize the digestive tract of a calf two days after it is born. Within three weeks, the inside of the rumen becomes home to 30 species of bacteria, 40 species of protozoa, and five species of yeast. This biofilm makes up the population of microbes in “green tripe”, which we give to animals to provide them with probiotics.

Note: Biofilms can be any color, or even colorless. They can have a putrid smell that is much more easily sensed by dogs and cats with their strong olfactory abilities.

Inside the body: how probiotics and digestive enzymes can help • P robiotics (good bacteria) can be extremely helpful in preventing the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the gut, and subsequent biofilm formation. Strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are effective against Salmonella, Listeria and Clostridium. • D igestive enzymes can help dissolve the biofilm lining the gastrointestinal tract. Be sure to use enzymes that include cellulase if the animal has been fed a high-starch or plantbased diet.

can heal, but poor nutrition, oxygenation or blood perfusion, or white cell dysfunction, can prevent healing. Amazingly, biofilms have even been found in the disinfectants used to eradicate them! When threatened with cleaning agents, the biofilm cells begin rapidly changing; the outer layer of the biofilm becomes thicker to protect the organisms inside.

Note: The National Institutes of Health estimates that 80% of refractory infections in both humans and animals are attributable to biofilm colonies.

HOW HARMFUL BIOFILMS IMPACT YOUR DOG OR CAT Biofilms can be extremely hazardous to companion animals and their people. • T hey can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Pseudomonus aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Clostridium difficile,

WHEN BIOFILMS CAUSE PROBLEMS Some biofilms can be very harmful and have been associated with several human diseases and conditions, including valvular endocarditis, periodontitis, delayed wound healing, and chronic wound infection. The CDC estimates that up to 70% of human bacterial infections in the Western world are caused by biofilms. The bacteria within a biofilm are up to 1,000 times more resistant to antibiotics and disinfectants than bacteria found outside a biofilm. Specialized survivor cells, called “persisters”, are slow-growing variants that exist in every bacterial population; they are genetically programmed to survive environmental stress, including exposure to antibiotics. The persister cells generate a toxin that drives the bacterial cells into a dormant state. Once antibiotic therapy has ceased, the persisters give rise to a new bacterial population, resulting in a relapse of the biofilm infection. This can explain why infections often reoccur after antimicrobial therapy. Research suggests that white blood cells, antibodies, and other immune components are also ineffective against biofilms. Patients with biofilm-based infections Animal Wellness

Clostridium perfringens, Serratia marcescens (the pink biofilm found in bathrooms), Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium, Klebsiella pneumophila, Listeria monocytogenes, and many others. • The biofilm also produces enzymes that make the bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Two of these enzymes are aminoglycoside modifying enymes (AMEs) and beta-lactamase (BL). Acitenobacter baumannii is resistant to aminoglycosides and is responsible for many serious infections found in hospital settings. Salmonella, E. coli, Enterococcus, Campylobacter and Staphylococcus are resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins).

Note: Biofilm resistance to antimicrobials explains the recurring nature of urinary tract infections.

• B iofilm can prevent the full absorption of nutrients across the intestinal wall, promote inflammation, and cause antibiotic and antifungal-resistant infections in animals, including liver abscesses, infected wounds, urinary tract infections, pyometra, periodontal disease, enteritis, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease, especially in cats.

DIAGNOSING AND TREATING BIOFILM INFECTION The effective treatment of any disease requires accurate diagnosis. Unfortunately, due to the complex nature of biofilms, achieving accurate diagnosis through the conventional culture and isolation method is quite difficult. New imaging techniques, including laser scanning, are being developed to identify infective biofilm. Treating biofilm infection requires a dual approach using a combination of antibiofilm and antimicrobial agents. Conventional antibiotic usage has no effect on the biofilm. Enhanced therapies include the use of ultrasound, electromagnetic pulse therapy, phage therapy (which produces enzymes to degrade the extracellular

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Cleanliness is key Efforts should be targeted at interfering with the development of biofilms, rather than focusing on treatment, which is often difficult to achieve. Good cleaning practices can help eliminate biofilm formation. Just killing microorganisms without removing the biofilm structure from a surface can result in a rapid recolonization of organisms within the remaining matrix. This is particularly important when cleaning bowls and feeding utensils for dogs and cats. Hydrogen peroxide is capable of reducing the cohesive energy of bacteria in the biofilm and can be used for cleaning. Alkaline cleansers do a better job at breaking down the matrix than acidic cleansers, and include dilute ammonia, chlorine bleach, washing soda (trisodium phosphate and sodium carbonate), and baking soda. Scrubbing and agitation of the surface helps break down the biofilm. Baking soda would be the preferred cleanser for dog and cat bowls. Regular weekly cleaning keeps biofilms around the house to a minimum. However, if a surface is not cleaned regularly, the biofilm hardens. Feeding bowls and utensils should be cleaned after every use, and water bowls should be scrubbed daily.

matrix of the biofilm), and nano-particles to carry antimicrobial drugs into the biofilm matrix. Although additional research is needed to unravel the mystery of biofilms, strict adherence to cleanliness (see sidebar above), avoiding the overuse of unnecessary antibiotics, and novel therapeutic treatments can go a long way toward stemming the menace.

NEWSWORTHY

Help for cancer patients and their pets Every year, millions of people are diagnosed with cancer. Learning that you have this dreaded disease is life-changing, and patients who share their lives with dogs or cats often find themselves having difficulty caring for their animals while they’re ill and undergoing treatment. Sadly, many of these dogs and cats are at risk of being surrendered to shelters because their guardians can no longer look after them. The good news is there’s help for cancer patients who need assistance caring for their animal companions, thanks to the CancerCare® Pet Assistance & Wellness (PAW) Program. This unique new program introduced by CancerCare, a non-profit

organization founded in 1944, provides financial assistance, educational resources and emotional support to animal parents with cancer, helping them to care for and keep their dogs and cats at home. This is especially important for elderly, low income, or uninsured patients, and those who live alone — all of whom are most at risk of having to give up their animals after a cancer diagnosis. Research has shown that animal companions are good for our health and well-being, both physically and mentally — and cancer patients are among those most in need of these benefits. According to the PAW Program, giving cancer patients the

means to keep their dogs and cats at home is important for multiple reasons:

• G ives patients the motivation to get better

• D istracts from stress, anxiety and pain

• L essens loneliness and increases socialization

• H elps improve fatigue • R eleases healing “feel good” hormones

• H elps keep animals out of shelters.

To learn more about the PAW Program, visit cancercare.org/paw.

Animal Wellness

SAFETY FIRST

Outdoor Safety for Cats Letting your cat enjoy the great outdoors this spring can enrich his life and enhance his well-being — as long as you make his safety your number one priority.

BY SALLY E. BAHNER

hen it comes to cats, the need for environmental enrichment is underestimated. Just like dogs, cats need stimulation to prevent boredom and behavior problems. One way to provide this stimulation and enrichment is to give your cat an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors this spring and summer. While many cats are quite happy to stay inside, others appreciate being able to get out now and then. Allowing your cat to roam freely is not encouraged (see sidebar on page 62), but there are several ways to let him experience the outdoors in a safe and enjoyable manner.

WALKING JACKET An easy starting point is to take your cat outside in a “walking jacket”, which is a safer, more secure alternative to a collar and leash. Our cat Sofiya has a walking jacket that has served her well from kittenhood onward, since the Velcro straps make it easily adjustable. A quick internet search brings up a lot of feline walking jacket

selections on Amazon and Etsy. They can range from something as simple as a figure eight harness and leash, to a snug warm jacket for the winter. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a good fit for your cat — not so loose that she can worm her way out of it, and not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.

Getting her used to it The key is getting your cat to accept the jacket before venturing outside. Some cats may just lie down or stagger around awkwardly when first fitted with a harness or jacket.

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B e patient and make the experience a positive one by giving your cat treats and praise while acclimatizing her to the jacket.

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W hen she’s used to the jacket and ready to be taken outside, start with short visits and gradually extend the time (and distance) as she becomes more comfortable.

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W atch for any signs of stress or fear. After four years, Sofiya still acts like something alien is attached to her, so she prefers to just sit or lie on the deck and watch the birds.

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S ome experimentation may be needed: for example, I learned that Sofiya moves about more easily in a figure eight harness.

PET STROLLER

nis

While your cat won’t get exercise when riding in a pet stroller, he will get the fresh air. There are several options, including strollers you can jog with and those for multiple cats, and all seem to enclose the cat securely within the interior. Make sure the stroller is durable and well-made, gives your cat proper ventilation and protection from the elements, including the sun, and that mesh materials aren’t so flimsy that your cat could escape.

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Walking your cat in a stroller allows you to go further afield than you would with a jacket or harness. Keep in mind, though, that not all kitties enjoy a change of scene and can be stressed by strangers, dogs, traffic, and loud noises. As always, watch your cat for any signs of stress or fear and head home if he seems nervous or anxious.

Gabor and Zsa Zsa show off their comfortable walking jackets.

P h o to co u r te s

Sofiya in her walking jacket.

Make sure the stroller is durable and well-made, and gives your cat proper ventilation and protection from the elements.

f yo Sa

lly

OUTDOOR ENCLOSURES

With some carpentry skills and/or resourcefulness, you can create an enclosure for your cat in which she can enjoy the best of both worlds — freedom to move around as she pleases while staying safely contained.

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A trio of kitties enjoys a stroller ride.

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Russian Blue breeder, Maartje Schoenmaker, is putting the finishing touches on her second outdoor cat enclosure. “Right now, the cats go in the garden under supervision,” she says. “I still need to do final touches on the walls to make them 100% cat-proof, and make a barrier on top of the stud runs.” When planning an outdoor enclosure, think about how it will fit into your landscape, how long you plan to stay at your home (along with any homeowner association limitations), the number of cats you have, your level of construction expertise, and, of course, your budget.

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C atios (catiospaces.com) can be as simple as a window unit or elaborate as a multi-level enclosure that attaches to the side of the house. Sizes and degrees of complexity vary.

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F ree-standing enclosures or “pet play pens” come in horizontal and vertical configurations (kittywalk. com). Many can be easily moved around the yard or deck. Some are available as tunnels that can be snaked through the yard, and there are also teepeestyle models. The important thing here is to supervise your cat, making sure she doesn’t get upset at being confined and try to escape.

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T he Purrfect Fence (purrfectfence.com) works with existing fencing or comes as a standalone fencing system. What makes it escape-proof is that the material is flexible and curves overhead to discourage climbing.

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C ompanies can also create custom enclosures based on your specifications and number of cats. Both vertical and horizontal designs can accommodate just about any style of house. As well, many kits and DIY plans are available online; just ensure that when you’re buying materials for a DIY project, the wire fencing you choose will prevent little furry bodies from squeezing through. A corrugated plastic roof allows for all-weather access.

Outdoor hazards

Free-roaming cats can encounter a multitude of dangers when they’re out and about, including infectious disease, fast-moving traffic, and attacks from other cats, dogs or wild animals. That’s why it’s so important to follow the recommendations in this article to keep your kitty safe. It’s also a good idea to supervise your cat any time he’s outside, even in your yard. Never leave him tethered to a tree or post, and be sure to also keep an eye on him when he’s in his enclosure.

MAKE IT FUN! Once your enclosure is in place, you can create a feline playground for your cat. Shelves and beds allow her to survey her domain in comfort. Tree trunks can help hone her scratching skills and a fountain is a diverting addition that can also encourage adequate water intake when your cat is outside. Include cat-safe plants and grass for snacking, and don’t forget a couple of comfy chairs and a table for you, so you can spend quality time outdoors with your cat. As you can see, there are several great ways you can introduce your cat to the outdoors this spring, while also ensuring he stays safe and sound and out of trouble!

Photo courtesy of Maartje Schoenmaker

When buying materials for a DIY cat enclosure, ensure the wire fencing you choose will prevent little furry bodies from squeezing through.

Animal Wellness

IMMUNE SUPPORT BY ANN BRIGHTMAN

HOW SUPPORTING YOUR DOG OR CAT’S GUT HEALTH BOOSTS IMMUNITY A properly-functioning immune system is vital to your dog or cat’s overall wellness, and it starts with supporting their gut health.

Among the many things the pandemic taught us is the importance of having a healthy immune system. The same applies to our dogs and cats. A properly-functioning immune system can help protect them from a host of problems — not just infectious diseases, but also allergies, cancer, and more. One of the best ways to keep your dog or cat’s immune system in top form is to support their gut health.

GUT HEALTH AND IMMUNITY

“The gut microbiome is made up of billions of live bacteria and fungi,” says Michelle Griffin of MuttGut (muttgut.com), specializing in products for canine and feline gut health. “The gastrointestinal microbiota is a complex ecosystem of approximately 300 to 500 bacterial species, comprising nearly two million genes. These bacteria directly impact the production and behavior of immune cells. Having good bacteria in the gut helps balance a healthy immune response.”

You might be wondering how your animal’s immune system could have anything to do with what’s going on in their gut. The truth is, they’re inextricably linked. “A healthy gut is your animal’s first line of defense when it comes to their immune system,” says Karlyn Kubin of ZIWI, a premium pet food company (ziwipets.com). “Most immune cells (70% to 80%) occur in the gut,” adds Holly Ganz of AnimalBiome, which offers digestive, skin, and oral products for animals (animalbiome.com). “These immune cells communicate with gut bacteria, and together they play a vital role in how the immune system develops and functions. Individuals with strong immune systems usually have a balanced and diverse community of gut microbes. Similarly, a growing body of scientific research connects imbalances in gut bacterial communities with improper immune function. In short, a healthy gut is key for strong immunity.”

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D gs Cats

SUPPORTING GUT HEALTH IN VARIOUS WAYS •

M ichelle states that MuttGut fermentates their gut health formula with bentonite clay and turmeric. “Bentonite clay not only alkalizes the gut but also draws out toxins such as heavy metals and plastics. We use high quality sun-dried turmeric for the maximum antiinflammatory and antiviral benefits, which are enhanced by extended fermentation. This process produces metabolites, which are essential for immune function.”

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A nimalBiome’s products support immunity through gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbes and reducing E. coli and Clostridium perfringens. “E. coli bacteria are normally found along the intestinal tract of cats and dogs, but in high abundance they can impair immune function and cause inflammation,” Holly says. “Several of our products include bacteriophage technology that specifically targets E. coli. Bacteriophages are ‘good’ viruses that…reduce the number of harmful bacteria without affecting beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics feed ‘good’ bacteria, probiotics introduce important gut species, and postbiotics provide essential molecules for the microbial community to thrive.”

While good gut health is one of the main keys to strong immunity, it doesn’t end there. Many additional supplements can support your dog or cat’s immune system in other ways (see sidebar below). It’s important to consult with a holistic or integrative vet before starting your animal on anything new, to determine which supplements might be best, and at what dosage. Once that’s done, you’ll have a happy, healthy dog or cat who’s well-armed against infection, inflammation and illness.

WHY DIET IS SO IMPORTANT “An animal’s diet has one of the strongest influences on gut health, pointing to nutrition as a key modulator of immune function,” says Holly. “Diets high in carbohydrates can contribute to imbalances, and in this case the dog or cat may benefit from additional protein. Likewise, adding fiber can improve microbiome composition in some animals fed high-protein diets.” “Feeding your animal a nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate diet is vital when addressing their gut health and immunity,” adds Karlyn. “Ingredients such as green tripe and high levels of meat without fillers support their digestive health. Tripe contains probiotics that are a key building block for overall health. The beneficial bacteria found in tripe help boost immune systems and promote digestive health. The collagen found in bone contains antioxidants that help detoxify the liver and restore the gut lining. Adding bone increases nutrient absorption and creates an improved environment for good gut bacteria to thrive. And taurine is an amino acid that plays a major role in normal digestion and maintaining a healthy immune system.” Taurine is naturally found in diets with high levels of meat and organs. Along with the right high quality diet, you can further boost your dog or cat’s immunity with a healthy low-stress lifestyle that includes adequate exercise and minimal toxin exposure.

ADDITIONAL IMMUNESUPPORTING SUPPLEMENTS •

ntioxidants are among the best-known A supplements for supporting a healthy immune system in both people and animals. While they don’t actually boost immunity, they neutralize the free radicals that can damage cells in the body and lead to inflammation and disease. Vitamins C and E and beta-carotene top the list, while others include grape seed extract, quercetin, coenzyme Q10, the B vitamins, and the minerals selenium, zinc and manganese.

• M edicinal mushrooms with immune-modulating properties include Cordyceps, Maitake, Shiitake, Reishi, Turkey Tail, and Lion’s Mane (turn to page 18 to learn more about the health benefits of Lion’s Mane mushroom). • H erbs such as Astragalus and Andrographis can be useful. Astragalus is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been shown to improve immune response, while Andrographis contains a terpenoid compound with antiviral effects. • C olostrum is the milk produced by mammals during the last few weeks of pregnancy. Rich in immunoglobulin, it provides passive immunity to newborn animals. Bovine colostrum can also be used as a supplement in adult animals, including dogs and cats. It can be particularly healing for the gut, and hence the immune system.

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LEARNING CURVE

Fear, aggression and other behavioral problems in dogs often arise from maltreatment, lack of socialization and other issues. But science is showing that genetics also play a part.

HOW GENETICS CAN INFLUENCE YOUR DOG’S BEHAVIOR 1 by W. Jean Dodds, DVM

Behavior problems are among the top reasons dogs are surrendered to shelters. In fact, a study of 12 animal shelters across the US found that 40% of people relinquishing their dogs cited behavioral problems as one of the reasons, with aggression as the most frequently-reported issue. Although abuse, neglect and poor socialization clearly contribute to fear, aggression and other behavioral problems in dogs, scientists are finding that genetics also play a role.

ARE SOME BREEDS MORE AGGRESSIVE THAN OTHERS? Most of what is known about breed differences as related to aggression comes from reports based on bite statistics, behavior clinic caseloads, and opinions from experts. However, information on breed-specific aggression derived from these sources can be misleading because of the reported disproportionate risk of injury attributed to larger and/or more physically powerful breeds, and the existence of society’s entrenched breed stereotypes. Other potentially misleading statistics and beliefs come from the fact that most dog bites go unreported unless the victims seek medical attention. Also, the prevalence of a particular breed in a community is largely unknown, and the breed type of the dog is rarely verified. The genetic study mentioned in the sidebar on page 68 revealed some interesting data regarding breed-related aggression in dogs.

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ompared to other canines, pit bull-type dogs were C not shown to be more aggressive, although they were strongly associated with pulling on the leash. Using severity-threshold models, pit bull-type dogs showed a significantly reduced risk of ownerdirected aggression and an increased risk of dogdirected fear. Fear and aggression traits directed at other dogs and unfamiliar humans clustered together, with non-social fear.

A large dataset study of personality traits in Labrador retrievers, the most popular dog breed in North America, revealed substantial genetic variance for several traits, including fetching tendency and fear of loud noises. A guardian-evaluated behavioral questionnaire was used along with individual demographic factors. The results confirmed that these questionnaires were a valuable tool for detecting genetic variance in the everyday behaviors of dogs across different lifestyles. Further genomic analyses indicated that these traits were mainly polygenic (involving many genes), and suggested specific chromosomal associations for six of the traits. The polygenic nature of these traits was consistent with previous behavioral genetics studies in other species, and confirmed the need for analyzing large datasets to quantify the genetic variance and identify the individual genes involved.

GLOSSARY OF GENETIC TERMS CHROMOSOME: A long strand of DNA containing many genes of varying sizes. Genes occupy a fixed position called a locus on a chromosome. GENE: The basic physical and functional unit of heredity made up of DNA. The unit of heredity passed from parent to offspring. A region of DNA that translates (encodes) function. Some genes “code” for proteins but many others do not, and are termed “non-coding”. GENOME: The complete set of an organismn’s DNA. Contains all the information for an individual to develop and grow, and heal from disease. GENOPTYPIC: The unique sequence of an individual’s DNA. Describes the complete set of genes carried by an organism. LOCUS (PLURAL LOCI): The position of a gene or mutation on a chromosome. PHENOTYPIC: The observable characteristics of an individual resulting from the individual’s genoptype combined with the environment. SEVERITY THRESHOLD: The degree of vulnerability an individual has to developing a particular trait or behavior.

Eight breeds were studied for aggression toward strangers, dogs, and dog parents. Similar aggression rankings were seen for the dachshund, English springer spaniel, golden retriever, Labrador retriever, poodle, Rottweiler, Shetland sheepdog and Siberian husky. Some breeds, like the Chihuahua and dachshund, scored higher than average for aggression directed toward both humans and dogs, while other breeds like the Akita and pit bull terrier scored high only for specific dog-directed aggression. In summary, aggression was most severe when directed toward other dogs, followed by unfamiliar people and then household members.

AGGRESSION AND THYROID DYSFUNCTION In the case of guardian-directed aggression in dogs, the potential role of thyroid dysfunction as a cause was examined in a study from a decade ago. A six-week-long, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed in 14 thyroxine-treated and 15 untreated placebo group dogs.

Breeds with the greatest number of dogs exhibiting serious aggression (bites or bite attempts) toward humans included: Dachshund, Chihuahua and Jack Russell terrier — toward strangers and guardians Australian cattle dog — toward strangers American cocker spaniel and beagle — towards guardians More than 20% of Akitas, Jack Russell terriers and pit bull terriers were reported as displaying serious aggression toward unfamiliar dogs.

Interestingly, the median number of aggressive episodes per day decreased significantly from baseline in both the treated and placebo group dogs, while at week six, the median frequency of aggression was lower in the treatment group. Since then, additional clinical case studies in dogs with more severe aggressive behavior have shown that dogs with thyroid dysfunction and aberrant behavior benefit once their thyroid function is stabilized. Animal Wellness

WHAT RECENT RESEARCH HAS REVEALED A large recent study for predicting canine behavior performed scans of the genome of ten canine traits involving 13 biomarkers of the loci related to fear, anxiety, aggression and social behavior. The study involved both purebred and mixed breed dogs. Phenotypic (observable characteristics or appearance) and genotypic (genetic makeup of all the genes) data for these traits were collected, along with data from 122 dogs with veterinary behavioral diagnoses which identified eight loci associated with the diagnoses. Subsets of these loci predicted the behavioral diagnoses. For example, small body size was associated with many problem behaviors, whereas large body size was associated with increased trainability. These results showed that the genetic screening of dogs for desired behavioral traits is a feasible goal. However, while these findings are broadly useful for clinical veterinary needs, animal welfare organizations, animal caregivers and breeders, shelters, and working dogs, future studies are needed for better understanding their interpretation and use.

Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, Bernese mountain dogs, Brittany spaniels, greyhounds and whippets were the least aggressive toward both humans and dogs. Among English springer spaniels, conformation-bred dogs were more aggressive to humans and dogs than field-bred dogs, suggesting a genetic influence on this behavior. The opposite pattern was observed for guardian-directed aggression among Labrador retrievers, indicating that higher levels of aggression are not attributable to breeding for conformation shows.

CAN DOGS INHERIT FEARFULNESS? Fearfulness of unfamiliar people and other dogs is a prevalent behavioral problem. A large dataset of 6,000 dogs was collected through a behavioral survey filled out by dog guardians. Several factors were associated with fearful behavior, including urban environment, poor socialization during puppyhood, infrequent participation in training and other activities, small body size, female sex, neutering — and several breed differences that suggested a genetic contribution to social fearfulness. Despite the fact that fear is a major welfare problem in dogs, it is a normal and fundamental emotion that helps with survival in threatening situations. However, while fearfulness is only a moderately heritable personality trait, if it becomes excessive, prolonged, or generalized, it becomes a behavioral problem that causes high levels of distress or anxiety to the dog and guardian. More research is needed to determine how the link between genetics and canine behavior can be interpreted and applied. In the meantime, while there isn’t much you can do about your dog’s genetics, knowing more about how they might influence his behavior will help you understand him better, while allowing you to take steps to help prevent possible unwanted behaviors from manifesting.

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ANIMAL BODYWORK

Most dogs are less active during the winter months. Find out how Tui na can help prevent early season injuries as your canine “springs into action” again.

Tui na

helps prevent spring injuries in active dogs BY AMY SNOW AND NANCY ZIDONIS

Spring is in the air and your dog knows it. She wants to run, play, and frolic. It fun to see her feeling so exuberant — but is she really ready to “spring into action” after being a couch potato all winter? This is exactly when injuries often happen. Let’s look at why, and learn how the ancient Chinese technique of acupressure-massage — also known as Tui na — can help keep your dog from hurting herself.

THE BODY’S “RUBBER BANDS” Muscles, tendons, and ligaments are the “rubber bands” of the body. If they’re tight, stiff, or cold, they can’t perform their job, which is to comfortably flex the dog’s neck, trunk, and limbs. The tendons attach the muscles to the bones to form a lever system. One muscle and its tendon extend the limb forward, and the opposite muscle and tendon draw the limb back. Ligaments hold the joints together; they are attached to the bony structures so they can stabilize the joints. After a period of limited running, playing and jumping, such as often occurs during the winter months, sudden vigorous activity can cause the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to snap off the bone or tear. The older the dog,

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the more conscientious you have to be about rebuilding and strengthening her muscles, even when you start up the exercise slowly and carefully. Young dogs have more capacity to bounce, stretch, and move with ease — as long as they don’t overdo it. FAST FACT: Another issue to watch for is when your dog’s muscles tire; many an injury results from shaky, tired muscles.

ANCIENT CHINESE ACUPRESSURE-MASSAGE Ancient Chinese medicine doctors used acupressuremassage techniques to enhance flexibility and warm muscles and joints. These techniques are referred to as Tui Na (pronounced “tway nah”). They are an important part of Chinese medicine and have been used on both animals and humans for thousands of years. Some Tai na techniques are warming in nature because they bring nourishing blood and Chi (life-promoting energy) to the affected area of the body.

FAST FACT: These techniques enhance the flexibility and stability of the surrounding muscles, tendon attachments, and joints.

The two techniques we are going to explore here are considered rubbing techniques that warm, increase circulation, and invigorate the tissues. They may seem superficial, but they loosen the fascia — the fibrous layers of tissue below the surface of the skin — and open up the muscles beneath the fascia. In this way, they prepare the tissues for movement.

the tissues moving lightly under your hands. Repeat this action three to four times. C ou Fa can be applied from the top of a limb down to the paw; from head to shoulder on the neck; or shoulder to tail on the trunk. As needed, repeat this technique three times on your dog’s limbs, neck or trunk, to warm and feel the gentle movement of the fascia and muscles beneath.

TRY THESE TUI NA TECHNIQUES 1. Mo Fa (“moo fa”) involves rubbing in a circular

motion. Use the soft pad of your middle finger or the palm of your hand, depending on the size of your dog, and gently move your hand in a circular rotation. Keep your wrists and hands relaxed. Begin slowly with light pressure, then after about ten rotations, increase the speed and pressure until you feel the warmth of the tissues. M o Fa can be applied directly on muscles and joints. You can shift the circular motion along the neck, trunk, and limbs. FAST FACT: This technique is instinctive when either you or your dog are hurt or feel stiff.

Performing Mo Fa using the palm of the hand.

Utilizing the finger technique to do Mo Fa.

2. C ou Fa (“soo fa”) is a gentle yet vigorous technique

that must be applied rhythmically. Place one hand below the limb and the other on top. Start closer to the hip and move your hands opposite each other, forward and back, while slowly moving them down the dog’s leg. Again, press down gently at first, then increase the speed and depth of pressure until you feel

A dog receives Cou Fa, a two-handed lateral movement.

Early season injuries can be painful, and put a real damper on the rest of your dog’s spring and summer fun. Start the season off right with these two Tui Na techniques, applying them to your dog before heading out for a walk, run or romp. It can make a huge difference.

Advice from canine exercise specialists Canine exercise specialists tell us to start exercise routines slowly after a period of reduced activity. They may provide instruction on how to help a dog with passive, gentle stretching, which can begin the process of increasing her mobility. The next step is to offer interval walking/running exercise on uneven terrain to build flexibility and strength. The dog’s body is designed to slow or stop and then start off again. Dogs can’t develop strong, rounded muscles and tendons by consistently walking or running on flat surfaces. If your dog has any specific mobility issues, or is training for a particular sport, consider working with a canine exercise specialist or physical therapist. Springing back into action may require specific muscle-building techniques to ensure the dog’s stability and safety. Animal Wellness

FELINE BEHAVIOR

Aggression in cats BY NADIA ALI

Our feline friends can sometimes behave aggressively. Whether it’s biting or scratching, or an all-out attack against another cat or person, aggression in cats can be upsetting and traumatic. But there’s always a reason for it — and solutions for defusing it.

Your kitty is curled up sweetly and you simply can’t resist stroking her. You think you’re both feeling content when she suddenly whips her head around and bites you, as if to say, “Go away!” In another scenario, two cats are sitting on the windowsill when one suddenly attacks the other for no apparent reason, triggering an all-out cat fight. Aggression in cats is fairly common, and this article looks at the different types and why they occur — and most importantly, what to do if your own cat is lashing out.

PETTING AND PLAY AGGRESSION The most common types of aggression in cats arise from petting and play. According to the ASPCA, for example, repeatedly stroking a cat in one area can sometimes become unpleasant to her, and she’ll let you know about it by hissing, meowing, nipping or scratching, or sometimes just making a quick exit. During play, meanwhile, cats can get overstimulated and overexcited, and what starts as mock fighting can quickly escalate into the real thing.

What to do: Preventing these incidents means observing your cat and her responses to petting and play. Can you pinpoint something that is making her lash out?

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“Learn her body language — ears pulled back, eyes dilated, lip licking, tail twitching — all can lead to sudden striking out if you’re not aware of the signals,” says cat behavior expert, Sally Bahner. Equally important is not becoming irritated or angry in response to this aggressive behavior. “Instead, head off imminent attacks by tossing a toy to distract her,” says Sally.

FEAR AGGRESSION If your cat is reacting aggressively to something else besides petting or play, and seems scared as well, she may be exhibiting fear aggression. It occurs when a cat feels threatened, and it can be difficult to determine what the cause is.

TERRITORIAL AGGRESSION This is one of the most dramatic forms of aggression in cats. Signs to look for are growling or biting when you or another animal approaches, along with spraying, scratching furniture and hissing. Territorial aggression is common in households with more than one cat.

What to do: In a household of multiple cats, the Humane Society of the United States suggests you try reintroducing the newest arrival by keeping her separate from the others and slowly reintegrating her. Ensure there are enough bowls and litter boxes for all your cats, and be sure to spend positive time with them to encourage feelings of safety and security.

What to do: Knowing your cat’s history is very helpful in determining what she might be scared of, although this is difficult if you’re adopted an adult cat and don’t know her background.

“Identifying what physical, emotional and environmental triggers are contributing to a cat’s defensive or aggressive behavior towards humans or other animals is critical in formulating a therapeutic strategy,” says veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker. If you’re not sure what’s causing your cat’s fear aggression, think about any changes that may have occurred recently — loud noises, strange smells, changes in routine, or a new person or animal coming into the household could be contributing factors, for example. Minimizing or eliminating the trigger, wherever possible, will reduce the cat’s fear and aggression.

According to the Cornell Feline Health Centre, 27% of cats taken to shelters are surrendered for aggression.

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REDIRECTED AGGRESSION This type of kitty aggression is related to something happening outside the house, rather than in it. Cats can become very fearful of noises, animals such as dogs or other cats, and even people outside your house. For example, you might not notice a stray cat walking across your lawn, but your own kitty can sense it. This can result in fights between household cats, urine spraying, and even attacks on human family members. Redirected aggression can be especially difficult to deal with. In some cases, it may be temporary and can be sorted out. Unfortunately, however, some people can’t cope and surrender their cats to a shelter.

What to do: Block access to windowsills, close the curtains and provide more indoor stimulation in the form of play, toys, etc. Outside, spray window areas with a cat deterrent to drive strays or roaming cats away.

Understanding what triggers your cat’s aggression, while creating an environment that will encourage good behavior, is essential. You can also try a variety of natural remedies to help calm her (see sidebar at right). If your cat’s aggression persists despite your best efforts, however, it’s a good idea to consult your vet or a feline behaviorist. Patience and perseverance will pay off.

More tips and natural remedies • “ Create a calm atmosphere,” says Sally.

“If the cat resists petting or strikes out, give her space. Converse with her and reassure her that she’s safe. When petting her, avoid body parts that may trigger attacks — the belly, feet, rear end. Stick to the ‘sweet spots’ such as the cheeks and neck, the top of the head and chin until you are sure of her preferences. Offer a finger to sniff as an initial greeting.” • D istraction works well. Try rolling a toy across the floor, or bring out an empty box for the cat to play in. Don’t use food in these situations, as it may be seen as a reward for unwanted behavior. • S catter catnip or chamomile around where your cats sleep, lounge or play. You can also use flower essences, or sprays and diffusers that release pheromone-like properties that calm cats. • “ Remedying environmental, chemical, mental and social stressors is equally important,” says Dr. Becker.

Is there a medical reason for your cat’s aggression? If your cat suddenly starts displaying aggressive or fearful behavior, it’s a good idea to rule out any physical problems first, so have her checked out by your veterinarian. “Addressing any underlying pain, metabolic, endocrine and organ disease is important,” says Dr. Becker.

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EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

In sync — study gets to the heart of the animal-human bond BY CELESTE HUTTES

Decades of research have shown that having a dog or cat can be good for your health — both physically and mentally. The benefits of sharing your life with an animal include everything from lower blood pressure and decreased anxiety to higher self-esteem and improved immune response. Now, a boy, a dog, and a couple of heart monitors have proven what animal lovers have known all along: a powerful heart-based connection exists between us and our furry friends. In a simple study, Dr. Rollin McCraty, Director of Research for the HeartMath® Institute, discovered a heart-rhythm synchronization between his son Josh (who was 12 at the time) and the boy’s dog, Mabel. With both hooked up to portable heart monitors, Josh entered a room where Mabel was waiting. The boy was asked to sit quietly, and consciously send feelings of love and affection toward his dog, without touching or interacting with her.

This shift in awareness brought Josh’s heart rhythms into “coherence,” a harmonious and beneficial state that appeared to influence Mabel. According to the HeartMath Institute, coherence is characterized by smooth, ordered heart-rhythm patterns — “an optimal state in which the heart, mind and emotions are cooperating together in harmony rather than in competition and discord.” As Josh continued to radiate love toward his dog, Mabel’s heart rhythms became more coherent as well, mirroring those of the boy. Mabel soon moved closer and lay down on the floor next to Josh. Prior to the experiment, Mabel’s heart rhythm was erratic as she excitedly explored her new environment (the HeartMath Institute lab). Likewise, after the experiment concluded and Josh left the room, the dog’s heart rhythms became more chaotic again, perhaps due to some initial separation anxiety.

In a similar line of research, a study by Nagasawa et al explored the impact of mutual eye gazing between dogs and their people. Some pairs locked eyes for a couple of minutes, while others for just a few seconds. In the pairs that spent the most time eyegazing, researchers noted a 130% rise in oxytocin levels in the dogs, and more than twice that (300%) for their humans. Sometimes known as the “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin is associated with love, nurturing, trust and altruism. “We’re seeing that a pet owner can create what we call a heart-filled environment when practicing heartfocused techniques,” Dr. McCraty noted. “The pets respond by becoming more affectionate, more animated, and more connected with the pet owner.” heartmath.org/resources/videos/beneficialbond-between-people-and-dogs/

Animal Wellness

AT HOME

house call vets

— why to consider having one DCags BY ANGIE KRAUSE, DVM, CVA, CCRT

While it’s important to maintain a relationship with a local veterinary clinic, a house call practice can take a lot of stress out of your dog or cat’s wellness visits. Visiting the vet usually isn’t very enjoyable. Struggling to get your kitty into the carrier, cleaning up stress vomit in the car, and seeing your four-legged friend feeling anxious at the clinic can make the experience extremely unpleasant for all involved. Veterinary visits are an important part of your dog or cat’s healthcare, but utilizing a house call veterinarian can be significantly less stressful for both of you. While it’s important to maintain a relationship with a brick-and-mortar veterinary hospital, at-home care offers many benefits to your dog or cat.

TOP 4 BENEFITS OF HAVING A HOUSE CALL VET As a house call veterinarian, I can vouch that 99% of dogs and cats are more comfortable receiving veterinary care in their homes. Here are four top advantages of using a house call vet:

THE VET CAN SPEND MORE PERSONAL TIME WITH YOUR ANIMAL. On average, house call veterinarians will spend more time with you and your dog or cat. This allows them to get to know you and your animal in your everyday environment. House call veterinarians can better identify mobility issues by observing your dog or cat jumping on and off the couch, for example, and can help identify small home improvements (such as litter box placement for a senior kitty) to promote a healthier daily lifestyle. The vet can identify toxic houseplants, read the ingredients on your bag of pet food, and get a clear sense of household dynamics. The veterinary visit tends to feel more personal and friendly for you and your animal.

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3 4

CATS ARE GOING TO BE MORE COOPERATIVE. Almost everything about cats is easier at home. Cats have a more sensitive threshold to stress and handling, and many are ready to explode by the time they make it to a veterinary exam table. When they get to skip the carrier, car ride, and strange surroundings, veterinary care becomes a lot easier. Many cats that need to be heavily sedated in veterinary clinics need minimal intervention at home. Much of a physical examination can be done without the cat even being aware it’s happening. Being in their own environment allows your kitty to have a sense of control and gives them the opportunity to take breaks if their stress levels begin to rise. YOU WON’T BE SEPARATED FROM YOUR ANIMAL. Many clinics take dogs and cats to a treatment room behind closed doors. This can cause stress for both the people and their animals. If your veterinarian is in your living room, you are with your dog or cat during the entire visit. (If you wish to skip seeing their blood collected, you can always duck into another room!) Often, animals feel more comfortable being restrained in the presence of the people they know and love. They appreciate your gentle touch and familiar, soothing voice. THE VET CAN GET AN ACCURATE BLOOD PRESSURE READING. This is a very specific but important benefit of an in-home visit. Many cats and dogs develop high blood pressure in their senior years. Unfortunately, blood pressure measurements performed in a clinic setting are often high due to

excessive stress. For this reason, many clinics do not routinely measure blood pressure, leading to missed hypertension in many cats and some dogs.

PREPARING FOR A HOUSE CALL VISIT House call visits are more costly because of the veterinarian’s travel time and expenses, along with the fact that they often spend more time with you and your animal. Here are some things you can do to prepare for and maximize the benefits of each visit. MAKE A LIST OF QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS. Your veterinarian will often have many questions that may distract you from asking your own. A list will help you stay on track and write notes. You may even elect to record your conversation to play back for clarity. If your animal’s diagnosis or treatment plan is complicated, this may help you stay organized. TAKE YOUR DOG ON A WALK OR RUN. Exercising your dog before the visit gives them a chance to eliminate and release some extra energy. A pre-appointment walk is especially useful for young dogs or high energy breeds.

discuss what services the vet offers When engaging a house call veterinarian, discuss what their availability and capabilities are. For example, most house call vets are limited as to what type of emergencies, and how many, they can see. Also, some practices have surgery and x-ray units in a van, while others practice out of SUVs without those capabilities, although they may have surgery privileges at a local veterinary clinic.

on average, house call veterinarians will spend more time with you and your dog or cat.

FIND THE RIGHT SPACE FOR YOUR KITTY. Cats do best in a room where they can hide or seek shelter while still being accessible to the veterinarian. Consider all the places your cat could hide that could become inaccessible — e.g. under beds, behind couches, on high shelves. While your veterinarian will most likely help you move your couch or retrieve your cat from under the bed, your time is better spent focusing on your kitty’s health rather than playing hide and seek. KEEP YOUR ANIMAL’S FAVORITE TREATS CLOSE BY. While your veterinarian may already have treats in their bag, it can be helpful to keep some of your dog or cat’s favorite go-to treats on hand. Tasty snacks can help your veterinarian bond with your animal, and distract your dog or cat during veterinary care. PROVIDE MEDICAL RECORDS. Sending the house call veterinarian previous veterinary records from other clinics, including emergency and specialty centers, can help them make the best assessment of your dog or cat. Be sure to provide your animal’s medical notes and not just the invoices.

Whether you have a senior dog who’s hard to lift into the car, or a cat that’s way too stressed by trips to the vet, a house call veterinarian is an excellent individual to add to your animal’s medical team. Many cats and dogs don’t even know a physical examination is being performed when it’s done by a friendly visitor giving them extra snuggles and cookies on the couch. Animal Wellness

ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

BY TODD COONEY, DVM, CVH

Immunity and homeopathy in dogs – focus on nosodes Homeopathic nosodes are a potent, safe and effective way to help dogs build specific immunity to many major diseases, without the risks and side effects caused by vaccines. Immunity is a hot topic in today’s world, both for ourselves and our dogs. Homeopathic nosodes are a great way to build solid protection against disease. While nosodes can be a confusing topic, knowing something about this wonderful type of homeopathic medicine is well worth the effort. Let’s take a look at what nosodes are, and how they can be used to help dogs build and maintain optimal immunity.

NOSODES EXPLAINED — A SHORT HISTORY Nosodes are potentized remedies prepared from diseased tissues or discharges (products of disease). Gross stuff, for sure. Potentized simply means diluted and succussed in serial fashion, like other homeopathic medicines.

NOTE: The word “nosode” derives from the

refers to large categories of inherited or acquired chronic disease). The three miasms are Psora, Sycosis, and Syphilis, and the corresponding nosodes are Psorinum, Medorrhinum, and Syphylinum. Only the first two have common use in veterinary homeopathy. The major nosodes all underwent provings, and their use in veterinary homeopathy is the same as with any other remedy, matching patient symptoms to those of the remedy. • L ater in the 1800s, veterinarians began to use nosodes developed for specific diseases, such as distemper in dogs (Distemperinum). During this era, Dr. Constantine Hering introduced the nosode Hydrophobinum from the saliva of a rabid dog, and used it to treat and prevent rabies in dogs and humans, usually giving 30c every three to four days, and increasing the interval as the patient improved.

Greek nosos (disease) and eidos (like).

• D r. Samuel Hahnemann first prepared remedies from diseased tissues, mainly the miasmatic nosodes, for the three major miasms he identified and defined (“miasm”

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NOTE: Hydrophobinum is the same nosode we call Lyssin today, commonly used to deal with bad effects from the rabies vaccine.

• M ore recent examples in veterinary homeopathy include using Distemperinum (nosode from canine distemper) in a large shelter to decrease cases in dogs, and controlling a kennel cough outbreak in a large boarding facility just by adding the nosode to drinking water. Most homeopathic veterinarians agree on the protective effect of nosodes. Few custom-designed trials support this notion, however, so the idea of nosodes being helpful remains contentious. But several cases of homeopathy being used on a large scale to curb epidemic disease exist in the scientific literature, and a recent example involves a disease well known to many dog owners, Leptospirosis (the “L” in DHLP) (see sidebar on page 80).

HOW NOSODES ARE USED Nosodes carry the energy pattern of a disease, just as other homeopathic medicines carry the energy pattern of their original material. The energy pattern of the disease includes both the causative agent, and the host’s response to that disease. This modified, vibratory disease energy can reduce the susceptibility of the patient to the actual disease. Nosodes work best when given shortly before/ shortly after exposure to a disease, and protection is only transient, so intermittent use is best.

NOTE: It’s important to work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian who is well-versed in homeopathy.

I’ll explain how I now use nosodes, although it’s by no means the only method. The key idea to remember is that nosodes work best when given close to exposure time; as noted above, a few days before or after at most. Most practitioners recommend a 30c potency given one to two times weekly until the dog is six to eight months old, then dosing based on exposure risk after that (training class, boarding, grooming, dog park, etc.). Since it is impossible to know when all exposures occur, and nosodes do not seem to provide lasting protection, we need to repeat at regular intervals until immunity is solid. Most dogs have a competent immune system by the time they reach puberty, so no longer need nosode protection after that; they have developed good natural immunity from natural exposure, especially if not vaccinated (which blocks natural immunity in most cases). • O ver the past ten years I’ve had great success giving each pup a single 200 c dose of a combination product that contains nosodes for distemper, parvo, hepatitis, lepto, kennel cough, and hydrophobinum. We then send home a one-ounce glass dropper bottle with filtered water and parvo nosode 200 c, and a small amount of brandy as preservative. I recommend giving this weekly until the pup is at least six months old.

NOTE: During this period, we lost no pups to parvo if they only received nosodes; the only deaths occurred in pups that were previously vaccinated.

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• H eartworm nosode also offers a great drug/ chemical-free option to boost immunity to this parasite. We have yet to see a dog test positive while taking the nosode, and have even used homeopathy and/or nosodes to treat heartworm positive dogs that come in from outside the practice. I recommend either a 30c or 200c given every one to two weeks during heartworm season, which varies with geographical location.

A SAFE AND POTENT OPTION In a world characterized by excessive vaccines, drugs, toxic chemicals and processed foods, nosodes offer a potent, safe and effective option to help dogs build specific immunity to many major canine diseases, whether viral, bacterial or parasitic. We do not have to understand the exact mechanism of action to say that nosodes have a beneficial impact on health, without the risks and side effects inherent to most conventional drug options.

Potentized simply means diluted and succussed in serial fashion, like othEr homeopathic medicines.

Leptospirosis and nosodes – a human example Most tropical regions have major problems with Lepto, which peaks each year in the rainy season. The disease in humans is similar to that in canines, and causes serious illness with death rates as high as 50%. Conventional efforts to control this disease involve vaccination programs which are very expensive and often harmful to health themselves. In 2007, 2.1 million people (88% of population) in three high risk provinces of Cuba received a Lepto nosode (Nosolep). In the fall of 2007, each person in this large group got two doses of Nosolep 200c, with seven to nine days between doses. About one year later, another two doses of Nosolep 10m were given, also seven to nine days apart, to 2.3 million people (96% of population) in the same three provinces. The results were amazing. The incidence of Lepto cases in humans dropped 84% in the provinces given nosodes, while cases in the provinces not receiving nosodes increased 22% (even though they were at lower risk and vaccinated). The nosode provinces were also considered higher risk for Lepto, and still showed a drastic decrease in cases. The icing on this cake is that the cost of nosodes was only about 2% the cost of vaccines.

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ANIMAL LIFESTYLE

What are the

MOST ANIMAL-

FRIENDLY American cities?

Thinking of moving? If you share your life with a dog or cat, you may want to know which American cities are the most animal-friendly before you decide where to put down new roots. Personal finance website WalletHub recently released an in-depth report on 2022 ’s Most Pet-Friendly Cities in the US — places where your canine or feline companion can enjoy the best quality of life without breaking the bank. To compile their list, WalletHub compared the creature-friendliness of the

THE

TOP10

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1 00 largest cities in the US, using

key metrics including the number of pet businesses and animal care providers in the center, along with walkability and other factors.

SOME KEY STATS • C olumbus, Ohio, has the lowest average veterinary care costs (annual exam) at $ 38.42 .

• M iami has the most veterinarians

(per square root of the population) at 0.3446 .

• I ndianapolis and Fort Wayne,

Indiana, have the lowest monthly dog insurance premium ($ 39.75 ).

• Reno, Nevada, has the most pet

businesses (per square root of the population) at 0.4791 .

To view the full report, visit https:// wallethub.com/edu/most-pet-friendlycities/ 5562 .

1. Scottsdale, AZ

6. St. Petersburg, FL

2. Tampa, FL

7. Lexington-Fayette, KY

3. Portland, OR

8. Las Vegas, NV

4. St. Louis, MO

9. Colorado Springs, CO

5. Cincinnati, OH

10. Raleigh, NC