V7I4 (Aug/Sep 2005)

animal Living pawsitive!

â„¢

wellness For a long, healthy life!

The "BENJI"

PHENOMENON: A canine celebrity helps rescue other shelter animals

TOP 10 Getaway Ideas 7 ways to save on vet bills

How to control GARDEN PESTS

Check out our

Amazing Animals PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS!

naturally

AUG./SEPT. 2005

$4.95 USA/$5.95 Canada

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 4

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contents 28

86

features 18 Seven ways to save

money on vet bills How to keep costs low – without sacrificing quality care

28 Benji and Joe Camp

Photo: Cindy Pauliuk

take their show on the road to help shelters This beloved canine celebrity has won the hearts of millions

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33

33 Pack your bags!

46 Vaccination: Part III

43 Traveling with your

59 Natural pest control

Animal Wellness presents our Top Ten Getaway Ideas

animal?

Don't forget his first aid kit

Which ones do they really need and how often?

keeps your garden healthy and animal-friendly Safe ways to battle those pesky bugs

ONTARIO REGIONAL SECTION

Photo: Debra Casey

96

65 Selenium – good for

you...good for your companion!

A close-up look at a powerful antidioxidant

66

Our Amazing Animals Photo Contest Winners Find out who won!

72 Go gently into that

96 How to introduce a new

good night Hospice care for animals

81 Flower essences 101 How they help heal our animals

86 On the right foot

Yin & Yang of 99 The puppy love

Taking care of your horse's hoofs

CALIFORNIA REGIONAL SECTION

cat to the "clutter" Bringing home another feline friend? Here's how to ensure a smooth transition

Try this simple acupressure exercise with your best friend

ATLANTA

REGIONAL SECTION

animal wellness

contents columns 12 Yakkity yak 23 Dr. Martin Goldstein 56 Best Behavior!

77

Legal beagle

Volume 7

89 Animal

communication

94 Animal passages 101

Book reviews

114 The tail end

departments 8

Editorial

92 What’s gnu?

10 Pony express

104 Ad spots

27 Product picks

112 Events calendar

51 Wellness

113 Classifieds

resource guide

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2005. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher.

Publication date: July, 2005

Issue 4

Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief Dana Cox Senior Editor: Ann Brightman Los Angeles Regional Editor: Susan Draffan Southern Ontario Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Graphic Designer: Yvonne Hollandy Photography: Tien Tran Illustration Leanne Rosborough

Columnists & Contributing Writers Marnie Astley Sharon Callahan Robert Ferber, Esq. Elizabeth Fulton Martin Goldstein, DVM Suzanne Hetts, PhD Susan Israel Lisa Simons Lancaster Sue London Andy Lopez Shawn Messonnier, DVM Paul Owens Gillian Ridgeway Janette Slack Amy Snow Nancy Zidonis Administration & Sales President/C.E.O. Tim Hockley Office Manager Lesia Wright Information Services Director Vaughan King Circulation Coordinator Natalie Stephenson Administrative Assistant Joanne Rockwood Editorial Assistant Trisha Hollandy Marketing & Sales Associate Jeremy Slotegraaf Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and

correspondence to Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9H 2L2. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received. Email your articles to: submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

National Sales Manager: Tim Hockley (866) 764-1212 tim@animalwellnessmagazine.com Sales Manager: Lesley Nicholson (866) 764-1212 lesley@animalwellnessmagazine.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr (213) 793-1867 becky@animalwellnessmagazine.com Canadian Regional Manager: Anne Gibson (866) 464-5214 or (416) 504-4310 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com Atlanta Regional Manager: Jeremiah Davis (866) 764-1212 jdavis.animalwellness@earthlink.net Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com

To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue in the U.S. $19.95 and Canada is

Our Cover: The newest Benji, who stars in Benji Off the Leash, rocketed to celebrity status after she was found in a shelter in Mississippi. She now enjoys the finer things in life, including lots of love and the company of her co-star, Shaggy, at her new home with Benji creator, director and producer, Joe Camp, and his family.

animal wellness

$24.95 including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Foreign orders U.S. $34.95. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 US Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 CDN Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9H 2L2 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. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

Dealer Inquiries Welcome: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for

resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

Printed in Canada

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animal wellness

editorial Living Pawsitive is a choice Most people would agree that life moves at a faster pace these days. When I wake up, I often don’t have time to make the coffee, let alone smell it. As a person who believes in balance, I know this is not a good thing. Sure, I try to eat right, get in some yoga and play classical music on the way to work, but as my cat, Katy, reminded me last week, there’s a lot more to balance than that.

I was working in my home office, frantically trying to get some writing done. After about three hours, Katy came in, jumped up on my desk, and walked across my keyboard. Purring good-naturedly, she rubbed her head against my laptop monitor, all the while throwing me sly looks out of the corner of her eye. At first I was annoyed, and then I realized that Katy was telling me I needed a break. For the next twenty minutes, we played chase the string (she did the chasing) and fetch the pompom (I did a lot of the fetching) and finally ended up on the couch, me with a cup of tea in hand, and Katy sporting a satisfied feline grin. I went back to work feeling more refreshed and in a far more positive frame of mind.

Our animal friends benefit us in so many ways. Of course, there’s the unconditional love that builds our confidence and self-esteem (who doesn’t love feeling like the most important person in the world?). There’s the exercise factor – we might not find time to work out for ourselves but the dog definitely needs her walk.

And what about all the recent studies that show how petting and living with animals can help lower our blood pressure and decrease our risk of other conditions and illnesses? As if that wasn’t enough, they make us laugh, and they teach us about devotion and growing old gracefully.

In return, we get the satisfaction of showering them with love and affection, and providing them with wholesome food, good health care, comfortable shelter and simple companionship. It’s all part of what we here at Animal Wellness Magazine call “Living Pawsitive”.

Living Pawsitive is the lifestyle choice we make when we bring an animal into our lives. If you weren’t conscious of that before, now’s the time to celebrate! Plan a special getaway with your four-legged friend.

Our article on Top Ten Getaway Ideas (page 33) will give you some inspiration, and you’ll be amazed at how rewarding it is to include your companion in your travel adventures. Check out our Amazing Animals Photo Contest winners – they’re true testaments to what Living Pawsitive means. All our winners will receive Living Pawsitive t-shirts in addition to their other prizes. Most of all, we hope you’ll pass the message of Living Pawsitive along. Far too many animals just like Benji (see story on page 28) are sitting in shelters and rescues, waiting to change someone’s life for the better.

In the meantime, the next time your animal friends interrupt something “important”, go ahead and let them.

You’ll be surprised how good it feels!

Warmest wishes,

animal wellness

Who will check in on your pet after you’ve checked out?

With an estimated 112 million pet dogs and cats in this country, according to the Humane Society of the United States, as well as millions of birds, pet survivorship is increasingly becoming an issue. Many guardians of companion animals are older and single; their grown children, if any might live far away. Such guardians worry that, if they die, no one will care for their animals.

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pony express dear animal wellness magazine . . .

In Volume 7, Issue 3, Kady Lane of Los Angeles responded to your article about crating dogs in Volume 7, Issue 2. I fully believe in crating! Destroying people’s personal effects is one concern, but there are numerous others.

I have raised cocker spaniels for 21 years. I adopted my first cocker in 1984. At the time, crates were virtually non-existent so my cocker had full run of the house. She did fine for six months. She never destroyed anything. Then I returned home one day to a house that had literally been totally destroyed. She’d chewed up my couch, bedspread, shower curtains, woodwork, coffee table, record albums, etc. Material items can be replaced or repaired, so that was not my concern. What was first and foremost was the fact that she had chewed an extension cord and it had shocked her. She had burns in the corner of her mouth.

For a while, I fenced her off in the bathroom. Still not being crate smart, I once again let her have the run of the house after her adult teeth came in. She passed away at 13½ years old to cancer, but it is a wonder she had that long a life. Around two years of age, she incurred seizures from rawhide that was not American made. Her first one occurred while I was at work. She apparently hit the refrigerator and knocked off a glass container which hit the floor and broke into hundreds of pieces. Did it hit her? I do not know as I was at work. Had she been in a crate she would not have been in harm’s way. A few years later,

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I returned home and found she had blown her knee cap from jumping up and down off the bed and couch. How long had she been in pain? I do not know. Once again I was at work. Had she been in a crate she may still have injured her knee cap, but more than likely I would have been there to help her when it occurred. I think this lady needs to understand that crating is loving your fur child and keeping them safe when you are not there.

Thank you for your continued research and passing along what you have learned!

Animal Wellness Magazine is #1 on my list to purchase as I have learned so much from reading the articles. Keep up the good work!

Thank you for the beautiful tribute to Maggie. I had the cover and inside story framed, and every day I look up on my living room wall at the most perfect golden retriever that ever lived and thank God that I was blessed to have her in my life....and even more blessed to have been her Mom. Pam Strickland via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Our sincerest condolences on your loss of Maggie. She was a truly amazing dog and was as much an inspiration to us – and, I’m sure, to our other readers – as she must have been to you.

Carolyn A. Wernet, Dallas, TX

Editor’s Note: Crating is very much up to the needs of the individual dog and his/her guardian. Handled properly, it can provide peace of mind and help with a variety of issues, especially in cases where the dog is at risk of endangering himself while his human is away.

It is with a broken heart that I wanted to let you know that your Volume 6, Issue 2 cover girl, my beautiful golden retriever Maggie, crossed to the Rainbow Bridge on April 14, 2005.

In spite of my diligence in doing everything I knew to hopefully prevent it, Maggie developed bloat. I rushed her to the emergency veterinary clinic, praying that I was wrong...praying that it was something simple that could be easily “fixed”. But it wasn’t.

Surgery was mentioned, but the odds against Maggie surviving it and the subsequent lengthy recovery were very slim. Even at her age (she would have been 14 in September) and in spite of the progression of her spondylosis, she followed me everywhere like a puppy. I did not want to lose her on a surgical table. So she crossed to the Rainbow Bridge as I held her and whispered in her ear that she was perfection.

I have a six-year-old retired racing greyhound who I will have had for four years in September.

She had her yearly vaccinations in 2001, 2002, and 2003 before I found out about possible over-vaccination. In fall 2004, she received a three-year rabies shot and titer for distemper and parvo, which showed she did not need those shots at the time. My vet is recommending that Grace have titers run every six months because she boards four times a year with them while we vacation. Is this necessary?

How often do you recommend titers be run on Grace? She is currently in good health.

Nancy Cornillie via e-mail

Editor’s Note: There is an excellent discussion of titering in Pony Express in Volume 7, Issue 2. Jean Dodds, DVM, who has conducted studies into vaccination protocols, states that “protection as indicated by a positive titer result is not likely to suddenly drop off unless an animal develops a medical problem such as cancer or receives high or prolonged doses of immunosuppressive drugs.” She adds that the vaccines that do produce sterilizing immunity are “distemper virus, adenovirus, and parvovirus in the dog.” Unfortunately, titers results are still misunderstood by many.

we want to hear from you!

Address your letters to Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to

PMB 168 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

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Daytime drama star supports animals Emmy Award-winning actress Julia Barr, best known as Brooke English on ABC’s daytime drama All My Children, is also an ardent animal lover. A spokesperson for The Fund for Animals and an active supporter of various animal welfare groups, Barr has turned her husband’s pastel drawings of their favorite cats and dogs into a series of note cards, proceeds from which will be donated to animal organizations across the country. The cards featuring Dr. Richard Hirschlag’s artwork are available in two separate packs of eight different images each. Visit www.daisynotes.com or www.juliarosebarr.com.

Actress Julia Barr is raising funds for animal welfare with these evocative note cards featuring her husband's artwork.

The flipside of animal rescue

Art goes ape Humans aren’t the only ones who can create art. Three paintings by Congo, the chimpanzee who became famous during the 1 950s for his artistic talent, thanks to the coaching of anthropologist Dr. Desmond Morris, will be auctioned off

by Bonhams auction house alongside works by renowned human artists such as Renoir and Andy Warhol. The chimp’s abstract canvases are expected to fetch up to £800 each – no mean sum!

Ananova

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animal wellness

You’ve heard of kids rescuing abandoned dogs, but how about the other way around? When a Kenyan woman traced the sound of crying in a wooded area outside Nairobi, she was shocked to discover a two-week-old baby girl lying amid a litter of puppies. The mother dog had evidently found and rescued the abandoned baby, and brought her home to raise with her own offspring.

The little girl was taken to hospital and will be put up for adoption, while the dog and her puppies are being cared for by the Kenyan Society for the Protection of Animals.

Ananova

One wily woodpecker The ivory-billed woodpecker is more resilient than everyone thought. Believed extinct for more than half a century, this large, dramatic-looking bird has been seen, heard and even videotaped by several experts in a remote Arkansas forest.

Similar in appearance to the common pileated woodpecker, the ivory-billed is a big black-and-white bird with distinctive white wing patches and an ivory-colored bill. Males have a red crest.

Ornithologists regard the discovery as a major find, adding that because some of the hardwood trees the woodpeckers depend on have grown back after being logged out during the early 1900s, the birds should increase in number.

Yakkity Yak

Donkeys win workers’ rights It’s not easy being a working donkey. At least not till recently.

Now, the famous donkeys of Blackpool, which for years have been giving rides to visitors at England’s famous seaside resort, are being awarded rights that will ensure they’re not overworked. From now on, the 200 donkeys will work only eight hours a day, with a full hour off for lunch. Beach rides are being limited to 200 yards each, and a vet will be available to give the animals a regular check-up.

Ananova

Focus on large animal rescue It can be difficult enough rescuing or moving dogs and cats during an emergency, but the situation becomes even more challenging when it’s a horse, cow or other large animal.

To help address the problem, the ASPCA’s New York State Disaster Response Services hosted the first-ever Large Animal Rescue Summit at Cornell University on May 1 6 as part of its on-going efforts to support emergency preparedness for animals. During the event, leaders in Large Animal Rescue Training and Response shared their expertise and discussed national standards in personnel, training, equipment, technique and response – good news for the estimated 2,000 large animals per year needing rescue. animal wellness

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Photo © Wildlife Trust of India

Yakkity Yak Dalai Lama speaks out for wildlife

Illustration: Robert Timmins/Wildlife Conservation Society

The Dalai Lama has launched a campaign to raise awareness of nature and wildlife conservation. Two environmental organizations, The Wildlife Trust of India and Care for the Wild International, are conducting the campaign jointly with support from the Rowell Fund.

Introducing the campaign to an audience of Tibetan leaders, professionals and students, the Dalai Lama, who says he recently became a vegetarian, stressed the importance of love and compassion towards all living creatures and the responsibility humans have towards conserving them. One of the campaign’s main goals is to end the illegal wildlife trade, which is decimating populations of already endangered animals.

14

The Dalai Lama's concern for wildlife conservation is an inspiration to everyone.

What is it?

Kha-nyou (Laonastes aenigmamus)

animal wellness

It looks vaguely like a squirrel, but it also resembles a guinea pig or perhaps a chinchilla. In fact, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), this unusual critter with the long whiskers, stubby legs and hairy tail is a brand new species of rodent hitherto unknown to science. Called the kha-nyou by local people, the rodent was discovered at a hunter’s market in Laos, Thailand by WCS researchers. So far, not a lot is known about this unique little animal, except that it’s nocturnal, a vegetarian and favors areas of forest cover and limestone outcroppings. Studies are underway to learn more about the kha-nyou and what protection it might need.

A barking good time

Yakkity Yak Photo: Landry Major Photo: Michelle Tanous

Host Kim Basinger was joined by celebrity judges Brooklyn Sudano (My Wife and Kids), Eric Roberts (Less Than Perfect), Erik von Detten (The Princess Diaries), Andrea Bowen (Desperate Housewives) and many others during the annual Nuts for Mutts show, an annual celebration of dogs held to raise funds for New Leash on Life, an L.A.-based organization that rescues and rehabilitates homeless animals.

Now in its fourth year, the event took place this past Spring at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, California and celebrated the appeal and talents of hundreds of mixed breed dogs with competitions ranging from “Best Smile” and “Fastest Eater” to “Best Physically Challenged” and “Most Obedient.”

All entrants vied for the prestigious “Best in Show” awards, which this year went to Gene and Cathy Crum and their dog Reggie, Troy Ouchida and Maty, and Andrew Brown and Zora.

The funds raised at the event will help bring New Leash on Life one step closer to its goal of making L.A. a no-kill city.

Clockwise from left: Kim Basinger hands out the third place ribbon to Andrew Brown and Zora; MC Debra Wilson of Mad TV with the "Best Kisser"; Lisa Edelstein (House) joins in the fun.

Photo: Adam Overton

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Yakkity Yak

Take me out to the ball game Are you a baseball fan as well as a dog lover? Then mark July 31 on your calendar. It’s when the Toronto Blue Jays hold their third annual Dog Days of Summer event. Fans are invited to bring their dogs to Rogers Centre to watch the excitement as the Jays play against the visiting Texas Rangers.

A special seating section is available for people and their pooches, and pet-related activities will take place before and after the game. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the OSPCA, which will have trained volunteers on hand to ensure the day runs smoothly and safely. Incidentally, the Blue Jays aren’t the only team to honor man’s best friend – the Chicago White Sox and San Francisco Giants also hold similar doggy events each summer. Call (41 6) 3 41 -1 1 24 or visit www.bluejays.ca.

Left: Blue Jays outfielder Reed Johnson and his Lab Shooter led a pregame parade through the outfield of all Dog Day participants.

Above: Having some fun in the pregame parade.

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animal wellness

animal wellness

17

even ways to

save money

on vet bills

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Susie adopted her Shih-Tzu Neddy when he was just a year old and suffering from a stubborn digestive complaint. “I took him to the vet and was amazed by how streamlined everything was,” says Susie. “It’s been a number of years since I last had an animal, and I didn’t realize how much the veterinary field had expanded and grown, and how many great procedures are now available for pets.”

As Susie discovered, many vets now offer almost the same quality of treatment for pets as doctors do for people. Blood profiles, complicated surgeries, hospitalization with round-the-clock monitoring and care, and even specialized diagnostic tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound examinations, and endoscopic biopsies are the norm at many contemporary clinics.

Yet all this care comes at a price, and vet bills can consequently run into the hundreds and thousands of dollars. The good news is that there are several ways you can decrease these costs without sacrificing the quality of health care your animal needs.

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animal wellness

1. Practice preventive care It usually costs more to fix something than to prevent the problem in the first place. Your car mechanic will tell you that spending just a little each year on tune-ups and oil changes will help avoid expensive repairs down the road. Your pet isn’t a car, but the same philosophy applies. Here are a few ways to prevent problems that might entail more costly procedures later.

• Annual lab tests. Diagnosing problems such as diabetes and thyroid disease with a simple, inexpensive yearly blood test only adds about $50 to $60 to your bill, which translates to about 15 cents per day! It’s not much when you consider that to treat diabetes, it can cost hundreds of dollars just for the hospitalization to run glucose tests to regulate insulin levels during the first week of treatment! Lab tests should be done annually on younger pets, and at least twice yearly on pets seven years and older.

• Nutritional supplementation. Healthy foods and quality supplements minimize oxidation and inflammation (two major causes of all chronic degenerative diseases) and boost the immune system. Quality supplements and food cost more than low-cost “generics,” but are healthier and more effective. Spending a little extra on better nutrition is less expensive than paying for procedures when your pet becomes ill.

• Surgical sterilization. Spayed and neutered dogs and cats have a greatly reduced risk of developing breast cancer, and no chance at all of developing cancer of the testicles or uterus.

2. Buy health insurance for your animal Insurance companies that pay for the medical care of dogs and cats include Veterinary Pet Insurance, PetCare Pet Insurance, and Petshealth Insurance.

Premiums range in price depending on the age of the pet and any pre-existing conditions. Many clients find that carrying insurance allows them to go ahead with procedures that might otherwise have been cost prohibitive.

3. Open a pet savings account An alternative to insurance is to open a savings account for your pet. By simply saving one dollar a day, beginning when your animal is young, you can accumulate several thousand dollars to help pay for any diseases that show up later in life. While this won’t actually save you money on vet bills, it does enable you to offer quality care for your pet when needed, rather than being forced to opt for euthanasia.

4. Avoid low-cost veterinary care It may seem odd that I recommend avoiding what is less expensive to begin with.

However, I have seen too many problems arise when corners are cut just to save a few dollars. As an example, I once saw a cocker spaniel whose owner wanted a second opinion for a chronic skin disease. A low-cost doctor had diagnosed allergies six months earlier and treated the dog with repeated steroid injections, although no diagnostic testing had been done (no surprise since diagnostic testing costs money). A simple skin scraping showed the cocker had demodectic mange that was actually made much worse by the steroids.

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can help keep your pet healthy while ultimately decreasing costs.

5. Take advantage of cost reductions In our practice, we look for ways to offer quality care at reduced prices. The easiest way to do this is to save time. We can then offer “add-on” procedures at significantly reduced costs. If we can do a procedure in five minutes that would normally take 30 minutes, we can reduce the price of that procedure.

Two of our most popular health care “add-on” packages are screening for orthopedic problems (mainly hip dysplasia) and a health profile that screens for a number of serious diseases. Screening for orthopedic problems normally costs about $250 including sedation, monitoring, and X-rays. We can offer this same evaluation for $35 for pets already under anesthesia for another procedure (spaying, neutering, or dental cleaning). Our health profile, meanwhile, would normally cost about $300 for X-rays, urinalysis, and EKG, but if we can do it while the pet is anesthetized for something else, the cost is only $45. These packages not only save the client money, but also help us detect problems such as bladder stones or tumors while the animal still seems outwardly healthy.

6. Treat diseases early It is very important to treat diseases when they are first detected. This doesn’t mean you should run to the vet every time your pet coughs or scratches, but if he exhibits abnormal signs that persist for more than a day or two, he should be checked out. Waiting until your pet is really sick is costly and also more harmful to the animal.

While examining one client’s cat during his annual visit, I detected a loud heart murmur. Heart murmurs are always abnormal in cats and always indicate heart disease. I told the client this and recommended diagnostic testing. He declined because his cat “acted fine” and “seemed healthy.” Unfortunately this was the wrong attitude, because without proper diagnosis and treatment it would only be a matter of time before his cat became sick or died of heart failure. The client didn’t want to spend the money at the time, but was almost guaranteeing himself a much more expensive visit down the road.

Treating diseases early includes checking any lumps and bumps that appear on your pet. Unfortunately, many owners and doctors ignore these obvious tumors, referring to them as “cysts” and “fatty tumors.” I have seen many of these turn out to be cancer because they were never investigated when they first appeared.

Any time you see or feel something different on your pet it should be examined, aspirated if possible, and removed and biopsied if in doubt. Don’t just wait to see what happens...cancers grow and waiting is expensive and deadly!

7. Find a veterinarian you trust and stick with him/her I’m not opposed to second opinions. I frequently refer cases to local specialists for help with diagnosis and treatment. However,

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animal wellness

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jumping from doctor to doctor makes no sense. Developing a health care plan for your pet takes time and can only happen when you form a health care relationship with your veterinarian. Your animal’s needs are unique, and your doctor must spend time with both of you to maximize his skill in caring for your pet. By forming a long-lasting relationship, you can ensure yourself quality care at a price you can afford.

At my practice, we offer personalized pet care. This means we formulate health care plans after we get to know clients and their pets. We make our recommendations and fine tune them after establishing the relationship. We work with our clients and their budgets to find the plan best suited for them and their pets. This doesn’t happen overnight. To get the best care at the price you can afford, find a doctor you like, respect, and trust, so you can work together to help your companion.

Reducing health care costs is only a bad idea if corners are being cut that could place your animal’s health at risk. By keeping the above tips in mind, you’ll be able to save money on vet bills without decreasing the quality of care your beloved companion deserves.

Dr. Shawn Messonier is the author of The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, and the awardwinning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. His veterinary practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, is located in Plano, Texas.

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holistic veterinary advice

talking with

dr. martin goldstein

Q

I have an eight-year-old almost Maine Coon cat that gets very red, irritated eyes. One eye will have a brown, thick, “mucus-type” buildup. The vet put her on a steroid eye drop a few months ago, but now that the problem has returned, I’d rather not go that route again. I’ve been adding a bit of detox and immune system boosting supplements to her food, as well as a bit of willow bark for the pain/inflammation. Can you offer other suggestions?

A

Good for you on the supplements. The addition of digestive enzymes such as Prozyme can also help relieve congestion. I would also look at what you are feeding her. Cats are true carnivores, and carbohydrates are almost non-existent in their native diet. If you are feeding dry food, this could serve as a basis for bodily congestion. Topically, I have had much success using a homeopathic eye drop called Similasan Formula #1.

Q

My Shih Tzu, Meisha, is three years old and for about the last month she has been vomiting in the mornings. I think it is mainly bile. She doesn’t seem interested in food until late afternoon, then eats both her morning and evening meals. Do you know what could be causing her to vomit only in the mornings? She seems to sleep most of the day, but is very playful later in the day and evening.

A

Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms secondary to many primary conditions, so I couldn’t tell you what’s causing it without a direct examination.

To be safe, you should have her examined by a veterinarian. I would also recommend a full blood panel. I am not familiar with the food you mention, but I doubt it’s ideal despite being categorized as top of the line. It would be a good idea to do some research into healthier foods.

Q A

My four-year-old cat has had three life-threatening attacks of pancreatitis, requiring emergency attention. The vet has her on a special commercial diet but can’t seem to prevent the attacks. Is there anything else I can do?

Generally, I can’t rationalize using most commercial

diets for any condition when the same formulations can be accomplished using whole foods. Although I am a proponent of raw diet, for this condition I tend to recommend cooked meats, vegetables like peas and carrots, and a touch, at most, of whole grains.

I’d also use a pancreas glandular, such as Standard Process Labs’ Pancreatrophin, and a homeopathic, like Professional Health Products’ Pancreas-Stomach Drops or Heel-BHI’s Pancreas.

Q

My seven-year-old female cat has a rash on her chin that seems to come and go. It tends to flake or scab up and she sometimes loses a little hair on her chin.

She is very healthy otherwise; there are no other skin rashes or dryness anywhere else on her body and she has no fleas or other kind of bug that I can see. Do you know what could be causing this? Are there any holistic remedies you can recommend? I would also like to know if pure aloe vera gel cut right off the plant is toxic to cats if they ingest it, and also if tea tree oil is toxic.

Because this is occurring exclusively on her chin, I would surmise that this is a case of feline acne. Acne, in general, is a detoxification process that typically has secondary bacterial involvement. I rarely use antibiotics in these cases but rather the homeopathic combination remedy by Heel, Mercurius Heel or BHI’s Infection (both contain the primary remedy, hepar sulf). We would also prescribe a natural antibiotic such as olive leaf extract (Olivet by Vetri Science Labs) or propolis.

Topically, you can use hydrogen peroxide, an herbal soap or a propolis salve.

Although I have used diluted tea tree oil on cats to treat ringworm with no problems, essential oils are considered toxic to cats so I don’t routinely recommend them.

A

Q

In February, I took my six-year-old male chocolate Lab, Riley, for some blood work. It was routine in nature, but I had noticed that he seemed to be slowing down, had dandruff, and was slightly underweight. It has now been three months, and I have had follow up blood work done

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holistic veterinary advice (all readings also enclosed). Based on his initial numbers, do you have any recommendations as to diet and/or supplementation to support proper thyroid function?

Riley receives food enzymes and vitamin supplements, and I have been able to put a little weight on him. His dandruff has reduced and his energy level is increasing with the warmer weather, too. He has not received any shots in three years, but does take HeartGuard during the summer months. He lost his “sister” last fall to brain cancer, and was definitely under stress as a result. He now shares his home with a new puppy – stress again.

A

First, it’s important to note that supplying blood results without listing the normal reference ranges from the specific laboratory could render the results meaningless. In this case, I would assume by usual standards that these thyroid values are low. In our clinic, we support thyroid function with thyroid glandulars (Thytrophin by Standard Process, Tri 40 or Thyrocomplex by Nu Biologics, just to name a few), and a thyroid homeopathic (ThyroDrops by Professional Health Products).

There are many inter-relationships among the organs/glands of metabolism, so we typically, by analysis of blood results, add in other relevant glandulars (like pituitary and hypothalamus, which are responsible for stimulating thyroid function). If thyroid function remains low, we will add thyroid replacement in the form of desiccated (USP) thyroid. In severely suppressed patients, I would consider adding some synthetic thyroid medication. As for diet, the more home-prepared, natural, low-carb ingredients, the better.

Q

Sometimes, all of sudden, my Maltese starts to lick everything in sight – the floor, rugs, concrete – and he wants to eat anything he can. This lasts for hours.

I tried the pepcid a/c and it seems to help him after a few hours. I was told it may be indigestion but the vet wasn’t sure. Since then, I’m giving him vanilla yogurt almost every night. Is it good for him?

A

If the yogurt works and has no side effects, then yes.

I prefer to use a high quality probiotic/acidophilus supplement. Many are widely available, and made specifically for pets. I have seen symptoms such as these turn out to be related more to neurological than digestive problems; however, a specific diagnosis is beyond the scope of this column.

Q

I’ve read several articles that say grapes, and grape byproducts such as raisins, are toxic to dogs. I now hear that sometimes this might not be true. I’ve also read a

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holistic veterinary advice report that says grapeseeds are a powerful antioxidant and may be beneficial to dogs. If this is so, what kind of grapeseed extracts would be good for dogs?

A

Grapeseed extracts are different from the outer part of the grape, and haven’t been associated with the toxicity problems seen in dogs that ingest whole grapes or raisins. There are many brands of grapeseed extract available – the best thing to do is to let the companies that have put in the research on these substances and then formulated specific products with recommended doses based on weight, do all the work and figuring for you.

Q

Do you know of any products or methods that may help us live with fecal incontinence? My red heeler has had anal gland surgery and now suffers from this condition.

She sleeps on our bed and accompanies me to work every day and has done so for the last 13 years. How long does it take from the time food goes in to the time it comes out the other end? Can we regulate this?

A

Every patient is different, as is the speed at which food passes through their GI tract. Sometimes bulking up the stool can work. I have had limited success using slippery elm and Acetylator by Vetri Science. Since one of our specialties over the last three decades has

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been rectal surgery by freezing, I have seen more cases like this than the average veterinarian. With some, I have had good success with sedating or using general anesthesia, and gently and gradually stretching out and breaking down any strictures (if this is the case here) that might be causing the incontinence. This should only be done by a veterinarian experienced in this kind of procedure. If the incontinence is neurological or functional, try acupuncture as a possible treatment.

Dear Readers: The brand names I recommend in my column are suggestions only. There are other brands with similar formulas. As with any product, it’s important to buy a brand you can trust.

Dr. Marty Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for more than 25 years. Based at Smith Ridge Veterinary Center in South Salem, New York, Dr. Goldstein is the author of The Nature of Animal Healing, published by Random House.

Editor’s Note: This column is for information purposes only.

It is not meant to replace veterinary care. Please consult your veterinarian before giving your animal any remedies. For a listing of holistic veterinarians, please refer to our website at www.animalwellnessmagazine.com.

Send your questions for Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com We regret we cannot respond to every question.

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The "Benji" Phenomenon:

Benji and Joe Camp

by Dana Cox

C

Cher. . . Prince. . . Madonna -- only a select handful of celebrities are recognized the world over by their given names. So it’s amazing that 30 years after creating and making his first movie, the beloved moniker “Benji” still garners instant recognition wherever the canine goes.

Having recently released a fourth movie, Benji Off the Leash, on DVD, these days Benji creator and director Joe Camp is using Benji’s fame to bring awareness to pet adoption through shelters and rescue groups. He and the latest Benji travel to shelters throughout the U.S., drawing media attention and scores of potential adoptive “parents” to the facilities.

“Last week we were at Tails Humane Society in DeKalb, Illinois, just outside of Chicago,” explains a clearly pleased Joe. “They came within two dogs of emptying the shelter after Saturday, and they adopted out about half of their cats. They were going to bring dogs in from other local shelters for Sunday.”

For Joe, promoting the case of adoption brings the Benji story full circle.

The original Benji came from the Burbank Animal Shelter and lived with trainer Frank Inn. Joe finally hooked up with Frank after many frustrating interviews with other trainers, who didn’t understand Joe’s revolutionary concept for the first film.

“When I was making the first Benji, and I was looking for a trainer, everyone

Left: Joe Camp gets a smooch from Benji. "We've had Benji look-alike contests over the years and we get dogs not even close to looking like Benji coming down. But in the peoples' eyes, their dogs are the character that they see in the movie."

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take their show on the road to help shelters

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"Benji’s soulful eyes and adorable looks struck a chord with audiences and not only made mutts more desirable as canine companions, but ultimately led to the adoption of a million shelter animals..." said, ‘What do you mean, you want me to let the dog relax?’ They didn’t want to be out of control of the dog. Frank approached everything out of the box.

He was not an obedience trainer. He was not a show trainer. He was not an A to B trainer like most movie people. Frankie got his first dog when he was in a wheelchair and he began training this dog to do things for him that he couldn’t do for himself. He trained through comprehension, compassion and vocabulary.”

When Frank met Joe, he and his dog Smiley (a.k.a Higgins) who played the canine role in the television series Petticoat Junction, had been retired for a couple of years. But Frank believed in Joe’s vision to feature a dog in a starring role as a three dimensional, emotionally-based being. At age 13,

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Smiley came out of retirement to star in Benji, launching the legacy of movies and television shows that would follow.

Benji’s soulful eyes and adorable looks struck a chord with audiences and not only made mutts more desirable as canine companions, but ultimately led to the adoption of a million shelter animals, according to the American Humane Association.

When it came time to make Benji Off the Leash, Joe saw an opportunity to once again make a difference. “The first three Benjis lived with Frankie (who died in 2002). Since we were starting fresh, it occurred to me that it would be a really worthwhile mission to go back to the shelters. So that when someone looks into those big brown eyes on screen and they’re seeing the compassion and smarts and unconditional love, they’ll go to their own local shelter to adopt.”

The search for Benji took Joe across the country as he tried to find a dog with the right appearance and temperament.

The adventure proved a great learning experience. “We saw some awful places,” says Joe. “Others are wonderful. The place we got Shaggy (Benji’s co-star in Benji Off the Leash) – Animal Care and Control in Chicago – is quite pleasant and clean for a city-run facility. So it can be done, but it has to start within the confines of the system and the facility itself. If you can clean up the facilities and put budget towards advertising, then you can compete with the places selling dogs from puppy mills. For every dog adopted from a shelter, one is not born at a puppy mill. But you need to change people’s perception of the shelter experience.”

After three months of searching, Joe finally found the perfect dog – an 11-month-old mixed breed female – at a shelter in Mississippi. From the outset, it seemed apparent that this Benji, who is now 4½ years old, was made for her role.

“Even at a year old, Benji was calm and laidback. She’s had far less training than any other Benji because she just doesn’t need it.”

Both Benji and Shaggy live with Joe and his family, including two other dogs, cats and chickens in California. But the canine celebrity knows that when Joe gets out the suitcase, it’s time to get back to work.

“At home, she’s a dog. Out on the road, she knows what the gig is and she’s quiet and she’s got the bathroom routine all

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Did you know?

Only the first Benji was male.

The stars of the second film, For the Love of Benji, the third movie, Benji is Oh Heavenly Dog, and the recent release, Benji Off the Leash, are all females. Joe feels females have a broader emotional range.

figured out. When I’m speaking to groups, she’s on the table next to the podium and she just goes to sleep. Then I’ll say something and she’ll pick her head up as if she’s saying ‘That’s not really true’. The audience just cracks up.”

Between the appearances, including picking up a Genesis Award at the Humane Society of the United States, the writer/director is working on a book, and there’s talk of a made-for-DVD Benji movie in the wind. Whatever happens, one thing is sure. Joe Camp will be doing things pretty much his own way. The writer/director/producer had little industry support for Benji Off the Leash, preferring instead to keep the movie an independent film so he could maintain creative control. It was a situation reminiscent of the first Benji film 30 years ago, when Hollywood balked at Joe’s original concept and distributors refused to carry the film. But Joe made the film anyway and formed his own distribution company to reach movie audiences throughout North America. The film was a box office smash, and proved one of the top three revenue earners for 1974. For Joe, it’s all about believing in a project and having the perseverance to see it through.

“Anything is possible if you have the right attitude, the right motivation, and you don’t give up. The first Benji movie is 30 years old and it’s still selling. To be able to drop down on a street corner almost anywhere in the free world and say one word – Benji -- and see people’s eyes light up – it keeps me aware that it’s been a very worthwhile trip.”

Producers Margaret Loesch and Joe Camp with their canine superstar.

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For more information on Benji, visit www.benji.com

Pack your bags!

Animal Wellness presents our

Top Ten Getaway Ideas Fern gets ready for the road.

Summer’s here and, like millions of others, you’ve got the travel bug. So what happens to Fifi and Fluffy when you start digging out the luggage? Up until recently, every vacation you booked meant a visit to the kennel for your animal buddies. But all that’s changing, thanks to consumer demand and a marketing-savvy travel industry.

Almost 30 million Americans now travel with their animals, according to a recent

Travel Industry Association study, and businesses are scrambling to cater to your needs. So if you’ve got a few days, why not choose an animal-friendly getaway? To get you going, we’ve narrowed down the selection to our Top Ten Getaway Ideas.

There’s something for everyone, no matter what your budget or your timeframe. So drop the guilt and go ahead and pack your suitcase. Just remember to save a little space for treats and toys!

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1

Pamper yourselves!

Go ahead. Indulge your need to relax and de-stress by hitting the spa.

While you’re enjoying a facial and pedicure, your canine can be soaking up the same attention. Spas that specialize in taking care of you and your canine satisfy your needs and let you pamper your pooch too.

Wyndham Peaks Resort in Telluride, Colorado offers doggie spa services including grooming, guided playtime, and specialized dining (choose from a la carte or doggie spa packages). After your special day, you can hit the beautiful mountain trails together for some exercise (if your dog's a little older, remember to bring a joint formula such as DGP from American Bio Sciences) or simply relax and soak up the beautiful view. What a great way to spend a holiday! www.wyndham.com/hotels/TEXTP/doggiespa/main.wnt

2

Head to the Beach

Sun, surf and sand…they’re as much fun for your canine companion as they are for you! Most dogs love to splash in the waves, play in the sand, or race along the shore after a ball or stick. Sharing a day at the beach with your dog makes everything twice as enjoyable, and the quality time you spend together strengthens your bond of love and friendship.

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Photo: Earl A. Thomas

require leashing. Others may only allow dogs during certain hours of the day, and virtually all of them request that you pick up after your dog.

Not all beaches allow dogs, so do your homework before bundling Rover into the car along with the towels, sunscreen, and picnic cooler. There are currently over 200 dog-friendly beaches in the U.S. and Canada, and they can be found in just about every region, from California and British Columbia on the west coast to New York and Florida in the east. Among the most popular is Dog Beach, a sandy stretch located at the north end of Ocean Beach in San Diego, where beach-loving canines are allowed to run off-leash from dawn till dusk.

If you’re looking for more than just a day-long adventure, book into a pet-friendly seaside resort. Cayucos Beach Inn (www.cayucosbeachinn.com), for instance, located in Cayucos, California, is just one block from the beach and also includes areas for both walking and washing your dog.

Seabrook Exclusives villas, meanwhile, on Seabrook Island in South Carolina, offers more than three miles of unscathed beaches and lush forest (www.seabrookexclusives.com) – a virtual paradise for dogs and their humans.

Remember that even the most dog-friendly beaches have regulations. Some allow pooches to run free, while others

No matter where you go, remember to pack your natural flea repellent, and use it throughout the day.

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Paint the town Is Fido a city slicker? If so, there’s a growing number of pet-friendly communities where you and your dog can enjoy an urban holiday indulging in all kinds of activities, from relaxing at a pet-friendly hotel or savoring a meal at an outdoor restaurant, to romping at the local dog park or shopping for the latest fashions and accessories at a pet boutique. Some cities even have pet-friendly buses, subways or ferries, so you don’t have to worry about how to get around.

Topping the list of pet-friendly cities is Chicago, according to www.dogfriendly.com, an online travel resource for dog guardians.

Along with a selection of luxurious pet-friendly hotels, cafes and bars, you and your dog can take a carriage ride, go on a boat cruise, or explore Navy Pier together. North of the border, Toronto welcomes dogs on its TTC buses, subways and streetcars, and is also home to pet-friendly hotels such as the Fairmont Royal York and The Holiday Inn on King, as well as parks. You can also visit a pioneer village, go on a walking tour or take a ferry to Toronto Islands Park. Also on the top ten list of pet-friendly cities are Vancouver, Boston, San Francisco and many others.

If your dog is sociable and well-behaved, and enjoys the bustle and energy of city life, an urban getaway might be just the ticket!

For more information and pet-friendly city guides, visit www.dogfriendly.com.

Toronto, Ontario

Photo courtesy of Tourism Toronto

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4

Take the Scenic Route A road trip is one of the best ways to get away with your animal, especially if he travels well and you have a spacious vehicle such as a van or SUV. As long as you provide everything your animal needs to stay comfortable – water, food, a bed, and regular bathroom breaks or a litter box – the vehicle can become his home away from home while you’re on the road. Some companies now even sell dog beds, ramps and other accessories designed for SUV travel. Don’t forget his leash and ID, and a carrier or crate if you have a cat or small dog.

Photo: Nancy McCaughlin

There’s no limit to road trips. If sight-seeing is your goal, how about a ramble along Route 66, which traces a route from Chicago to L.A. through hundreds of historic landmarks, from picturesque villages and First Nations sites to nostalgic 1950s diners and motels. In Canada, the Trans-Canada Highway stretches from Victoria on the west coast to St. John’s, Newfoundland in the east, with countless opportunities for side trips along the way. Keep in mind that your animal isn’t as interested in scenery as you are, so bring some toys for him to play with.

Before hitting the road, you’ll need to research pet-friendly accommodations along your route. Call ahead to make reservations and to find out what’s offered and what restrictions apply. And before you hit the road, don’t forget to pick up a cat kennel or doggie seatbelt (Hug-a-dog and Neopaws both make good quality products) so your animals are as safe as you. To protect your upholstery and enhance Fido’s comfort, equip your vehicle with a water resistant or water-proof seat cover (Kozy K-9 and Soggy Dog are two to consider).

For more information on travel guides, visit www.tripswithpets.com/recreation.asp. For accommodation in Canada, visit www.petfriendly.ca.

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5

Hit the slopes It may be the height of summer, but ski resort towns are still booming with activity, and with the wide range of outdoor activities available they make a great place to take your canine companion for a vacation. Many of these areas are pet-friendly, and offer accommodations that accept animals.

Photo: Tourism Whistler

One of the most popular ski destinations in the U.S., Colorado offers plenty to do after the snow melts.

Skiing hot spots such as Aspen and Breckenridge are a haven for hikers, horseback riders, white water rafters and mountain bikers, and both places have pet-friendly lodges, hotels and resorts. In Canada, meanwhile, Whistler in British Columbia offers golfing as well as mountain biking, alpine hiking, kayaking and ATV and heli tours during the summer.

You’ll also find pet-friendly trails here, and there are nearly a dozen different accommodations that accept animals. Locally-based pet sitters and dog walkers are available to look after your animal while you’re shooting the rapids or teeing off at the golf course.

If you’re heading east, Vermont is another popular ski destination that you and your pooch can explore together. Many of the state’s resort towns, such as Stowe and Ludlow, offer golfing, fishing, biking, gliding, canoeing and other activities during the summer, and have a choice of accommodations that welcome animals.

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6 Saddle up Hankering for a taste of the old west? Guest and dude ranches are becomingly an increasingly popular travel destination for horse lovers and those who enjoy a vacation with a rustic country flavor.

Happily, some ranches will accept dogs and even your own horse, so there’s no need to leave your companion at home.

Located in Texas not far from Houston, the Cielito Ranch B&B is just one example of a country guest ranch that welcomes both dogs and horses. This working ranch covers over 175 acres of woods, fields and pecan groves, and provides cabin-style accommodations and large pasture boarding for horses. Along with hiking, fishing, campfires, hayrides, pecan picking and other activities, the ranch offers miles of riding trails, as well as riding clinics and instruction.

If your dog is well-behaved, he’s invited to mingle freely with the ranch dogs and take part in ranch activities.

Canada also has a variety of guest ranches, mostly in British Columbia and Alberta. The Montana Hill Guest Ranch in Bridge Lake, B.C. welcomes well-behaved pets. The main attraction here is horseback riding, but you can also indulge in fly fishing, mountain biking, canoeing and wildlife viewing. Ranch staff members match the right horse to your riding abilities, and also have a pony for children. You can even book private riding lessons from a certified coach.

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7

Blaze a new trail!

Looking for a more active getaway? Hiking is great exercise for you and your dog. Whether you’re a novice with a comfy pair of walking shoes, or a more experienced hiker sporting top-of-the-line boots, North America’s trails offer beautiful views and varying levels of difficulty. And canines make the perfect hiking companions – they keep you company and make you feel a little safer on the more remote trails – and they’re perfectly willing to let you indulge your need for self reflection, should the mood strike you.

While dogs are not allowed in many American national parks, there are exceptions, so it’s important to do your homework ahead of time. Some parks will let your canine in if he’s leashed (which helps protect your dog from getting lost or involved in a domestic or wildlife skirmish). Canadian national parks tend to be more lenient with restrictions.

If you’re looking for company on your hike, you can try booking a tour with Doug Gelbert, author of The Canine Hiker’s Bible through www.hikewithyourdog.com. The day-long and multi-day tours leave from the Valley Forge, PA area and head into four different states.

For more information on pet-friendly hiking trails and national parks, visit tripswithpets.com, www.hikewithyourdog.com, or get a copy of The Canine Hiker’s Bible, published by Cruden Bay Books.

Photo: Cheryl Gilberti

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Photo: Dog Paddling Adventures

Wet and wild Life jackets, like this one from Neopaws, are a must for boating adventures.

8

If your idea of a perfect vacation involves nature and water, you’re in luck. Animalfriendly cottage and boating operators are popping up all over, much to your retriever’s delight! Check with cottage or cabin rental agencies to find out which of their listings welcome pets. Ideally, if you have a dog who loves to swim, rent a place with a shoreline that provides easy access in and out of the water. And of course, you’ll need a good vantage point, from where you can sip a cool drink while you throw that stick for the 100th time. Cats will be quite content exploring their new digs or enjoying the outdoors in their harnesses (see our article on staking out your cat in Vol. 7 Issue 3).

If you prefer a more mobile holiday, how about a canoeing trip on the pristine lakes of northern Ontario? Outfitter Dog Paddling Adventures (www.dogpaddlingadventures.com) specializes in bringing you and your canine closer to nature. They offer everything from one-day adventures to full-week sessions, and neither you nor your dog need be expert paddlers. Just put on your life jackets and hop in!

You’ll get the hang of it in no time.

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9 Sleep under the stars!

Whether you’re looking to get back to the basics, or prefer your home away from home to include its own shower and television (RVers, you know who you are), camping remains one of North America’s favorite pastimes – for people and their animal companions. Dogs and cats love the sights and sounds of Mother Nature, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Many tent and RV campgrounds welcome animal companions, but they may have restrictions, such as weight and size of animal, and may require your friends to wear leashes at all times and walk only on designated pet trails, so check ahead if you want a setting with more freedom. When booking a campsite, remember to ask for one with shade, and don’t forget natural bug repellent and your first aid kit (Everglo-Natural Veterinary Services offers a comprehensive holistic kit).

For pet-friendly travel guides, visit www.tripswithpets.com.

Food tip: If your animals eat a raw diet or even if they don’t, try a dehydrated food for camping (Nature’s Variety makes one). Dehydrated food is light to carry and when rehydrated, provides your dog or cat with a delicious meal he’ll love.

“You are what you eat” applies to cats and dogs, too!

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10 Wind

through wine country

Photo: Robert Holmes/CalTour

What could be more fun and relaxing than a leisurely getaway through North America’s increasingly popular wine districts? How about doing it with your best friend? Your dog may not know a Chardonnay from Shiraz but he’ll be ecstatic you brought him along for the ride. And with the number of pet-friendly accommodations on the rise, it’s easier than ever to pack up Fido for a tasting tour.

Although much of California is pet-friendly, Jerry Hatfield from www.pettravel.com recommends the stretch from Healdsburg down to Petaluma on Hwy 101 (from Napa on the east through to the Pacific Ocean). Not only can you find an abundance of accommodations, from B&Bs to 4-star resorts) that welcome your canine, you’ll also find many pet-friendly cafes and shops.

In between tastings, pack a picnic, visit one of the local farmer’s markets, or just wander through the little towns that make up this region. You’ll return home happier, less stressed, and hopefully with a couple of good bottles to add to your collection.

In Canada, try visiting British Columbia’s Okanagan valley for your tour. Again, you’ll find a variety of animal-friendly accommodations (Duck and Pug Lakeside Suites even offers a doggie package upon arrival), beautiful views of the water and lots of tasting opportunities.

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Traveling with your animal?

Don’t forget his first aid kit In the excitement of planning a summer vacation with your animal companion, it can be easy to overlook the importance of being prepared for potential illness or injury, from a cut, sprain or insect bite to an attack of motion sickness or diarrhea.

Just as you’d pack a first aid kit for yourself and your human family, you should do the same for your animal. Whether you’re camping, hiking, boating or crossing the country in your RV, having a selection of holistic first aid remedies on hand will give

you peace of mind, and will help tide him over until you can get him to a veterinarian if necessary. If you’re hitting the trails, Rover can even carry his own kit in a doggy backpack!

There are a number of convenient kits available for sale out there (some more comprehensive than others). Look for the items in our list or similar items in your kit, or consider including them if you are assembling a kit yourself.

Things to look for or include: • Hypericum/calendula ointment for soothing abrasions or insect bites and as an antibacterial, or tea tree oil (dogs only) • 3% hydrogen peroxide for cleaning wounds • Disposable latex gloves • Natural soap • Cotton swabs • Flea comb • Rubber bulb ear syringe • Variously-sized sterile gauze dressing pads to control bleeding and protect wounds • Rolls of gauze and adhesive tape for securing dressings • Tweezers for removing splinters, ticks or other foreign bodies • Blunt-tipped scissors for cutting bandages and hair • Absorbent cotton balls and pads for cleaning wounds, eyes and ears • Splints, such as tongue depressors, for fractures • Plastic eyedropper for giving oral treatments • Rectal thermometer and water-soluble lubricant for same • Instant hot and cold compresses • A copy of your animal’s medical records, just in case you need to take him to an emergency clinic • A card with the phone number of the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Centre (888-426-4435 – a consultation fee may apply) • Homeopathic remedies (30 C or K): – Aconite for shock – Apis mellifica for bites and insect stings – Arnica Montana for swelling, bruises and muscle strain – Rhus tox for sprains, strains, cuts and scrapes • Rescue Remedy or other flower essences for shock and fear animal wellness

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Special Advertising Feature

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American Bio Sciences HAVE DGP™, WILL TRAVEL! It’s time for vacation and the four-legged family member wants to go too! But, they have mobility problems that keep them from fully enjoying the vacation! Try DGP (Dog-Gone Pain) a revitalizing nutritional supplement that addresses many of the health needs of dogs with mobility problems in JUST ONE WEEK! For more information and a free sample packet call (888) 884-7770.

Neo-Paws The NEO-PAWS™ car safety Seat-Belt is available in two attractive colours – red or yellow and in four sizes to fit any breed of pet. The Seat-Belt will ensure your pet’s security in the car at all times due to its durable nylon mesh-webbing straps. Also, a comfortable nylon & foam casing covers the chest straps, to protect the animal’s torso/chest if abruptly thrown forward. Out of the car, it serves as a harness and comes equipped with its own leash. (888) DOG-SHOE www.Neo-Paws.com

The Fairmont Royal York V.I.P Package – Guests checking in with furry friends under the ‘VIP’ package for Very Important Pets will receive: one night accommodation; pet welcome kit; extra towels; water bowl; bottled water and VIP treats for dog gone rates starting at $249 CAD. The Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario. (416) 368-2511. Email: royalyorkhotel@fairmont.com www.fairmont.com

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Trips With Pets To promote safe pet travel and encourage pet travelers to not leave home without a travel ID tag, Animal Wellness Magazine and TRIPSwithPETS.com are giving away 100 free pet travel ID tags. ID tags will be given away to the first 100 people to request one. Visit www.tripswithpets.com/safetravel.asp for details.

Special Advertising Feature

pet-friendly travel Le Royal Meridien King Edward

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Located in the heart of the city, Le Royal Meridien King Edward offers exclusive doggie concierge services including doggie sitting and dog walks, and a special welcome package upon arrival.

Phone (416) 863-3131 Fax: (416) 367-5515. Email: reservations. toronto@lemeridien.com Website: toronto.lemeridian.com.

Nature’s Variety® Freeze Dried Diets provide an excellent way to feed pets on-the-go! The same as our Raw Frozen Diets (only without moisture), Freeze Dried Diets contain a large percentage of meat in each medallion. These complete diets are perfect for traveling, camping, hunting, or hiking! Visit www.naturesvariety.com to find a store near you.

Everglo-Natural Veterinary Services, Inc. New! For travel/home use. A holistic emergency kit for animals containing homeopathy, natural products and instructional handbook covering many situations, including: Insect bites, car accidents, cuts, fractures, hemorrhage, convulsions, heatstroke, sudden collapse, shock, poisoning, punctures & more!

Retail/wholesale prices available. Gloria Dodd, DVM. Call/fax: (707) 785-9171, PO Box 1242, Gualala, CA 95445 www.holisticvetpetcare.net

Cayucos Beach Inn Where your pet is our honored guest! You and your pet can enjoy our spacious rooms, friendly staff and attractive landscaping. During your visit we offer: pet treats, pet blankets, pet wash area. Call or visit our website to get more information about our beautiful central California Coast… including nearby pet friendly beaches and restaurants! 333 South Ocean Ave., Cayucos, CA (800) 482-0555 www.CayucosBeachInn.com

Holiday Inn The Holiday Inn On King’s Pet Friendly program is purrfect for owners who want to travel with their pets but not sacrifice on quality. Located in Toronto’s Entertainment District, the hotel offers a host of luxuries for our furry friends including a Pet Room Service Menu! Visit www.hiok.com for more details. 370 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5V 1J9 T: (416) 599-4000 F: (416) 599-7394 TTY: 416-595-2521 E-mail: info@hiok.com

Kozy K-9 Keep your car clean and your canine cozy with Kozy K-9 Nonskid Seat Covers.

Fully machine washable and 100% Guaranteed for you to love them, Kozy K-9 Covers are available for bucket and bench seats of sedans, SUVs, trucks and minivans. Perfect for leather or cloth upholstery!

MC/Visa/Discover $44.95 - $119.95. www.KozyK-9.com.

Toll-free (877) 956-9959 or (805) 695-8571.

Hug-A-Dog Harness You wear a seatbelt. So should your dog. Combine the easy-on, stylish Hug-A-Dog® Harness with the security of the Doggie Catcher™ restraint belt for the ultimate in travel comfort and safety. Harnesses can be custom-made to fit any breed. Mention Animal Wellness for free shipping! www.hug-a-dog.com (800) 444-9475. animal wellness

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Vaccination: part III

Which ones do they really need, and how often?

by Ann Brightman

A

fter Tiffany lost her cocker spaniel to kidney failure when he was just nine years old, she was determined to give her new four-footed friend, a terrier mix named Minnie, the healthiest lifestyle possible. “I researched all the things I could do to help Minnie enjoy a longer life than Aaron did,” says Tiffany. “Feeding a high quality diet was one, and limiting vaccinations was another.” Although Tiffany was initially a little doubtful about not having Minnie vaccinated every year, she changed her mind when she learned about the detrimental effects of too many vaccines. “I can’t help wondering if Aaron might still be alive if he hadn’t had all those shots every year.”

It’s now an established fact that annual vaccinations aren’t

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necessary, and that even the core vaccines don’t need to be given every year. Both the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) now recommend every three years for the core vaccines (which include rabies as well as distemper, parvovirus-2 and adenovirus-2 for dogs, and panleukopenia, herpesvirus-1 and calicivirus for cats) although challenge studies have indicated that all these vaccines except rabies (which is required by law in most regions) have durations of immunity (DOI) lasting seven to nine years, which is half a lifetime for most dogs and cats. While many people feel most comfortable adhering to AAHA and AAFP guidelines, and choose to vaccinate every three years, many others are extending that to

five, seven or nine years, while others don’t vaccinate again after the initial puppy or kitten series.

DE W ALER AN TE S D!

Dr. Ron Schultz of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine belongs to the latter school of thought. “Every puppy and kitten should have the core vaccines at least once at or above the age of 12 weeks,” he says, but adds that he doesn’t re-vaccinate his own dogs again after the first series. “I’ve never had any problems using that program.”

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In this article, the last in a series of three on core vaccines, we’ll focus on canine adenovirus-2 and feline calicivirus.

(For rabies, canine distemper and feline panleukopenia, see Volume 7, Issue 2; for canine parvovirus-2 and feline herpesvirus-1, see Volume 7, Issue 3.)

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Adenovirus-1 (CAV-1) attacks the liver, eyes and kidneys. It has worldwide distribution and can also be carried by wild carnivores such as foxes. Spread by bodily secretions such as nasal discharge and urine, CAV-1 can be fatal, and most often affects dogs under a year old. In puppies, it may be very swift-acting, causing death within hours of infection.

In other dogs, it can lead to acute or chronic infectious hepatitis, kidney damage, uveitis (an inflammation of the cornea) and what is often referred to as “blue eye,” in which the cornea becomes clouded and bluish-looking.

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The more prevalent CAV-2 is a respiratory infection that doesn’t affect the liver or other organs. It instead produces tracheal and bronchial inflammation, and causes a dry, hacking cough. Along with other pathogens such as parainfluenza and Bordatella bronchiseptica, CAV-2 is associated with canine tracheobronchitis, otherwise known as kennel cough, and in severe cases can cause pneumonia.

The CAV-2 core vaccine protects dogs against both adenoviruses. While there is a separate vaccine for CAV-1, it is not recommended because of the side effects. “The CAV-1 vaccine has been associated with an unacceptable rate of serious adverse events (e.g. interstitial nephritis, anterior uveitis) and should not be administered,” reports the AAHA Canine Vaccine Task Force in its 2003 Canine Vaccine Guidelines and Recommendations. “Infectious canine hepatitis is uncommon in North America.

Considering the low (to absent) prevalence, the risk of “hepatitis Blue-Eye” reactions, and the fact that CAV-2 will cross-protect against CAV-1, use of vaccines containing CAV-1 antigen are not recommended.”

As with the other core vaccines, Dr. Schultz recommends animal wellness

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that puppies receive the CAV-2 vaccine at or above 12 weeks. If a modified live vaccine (MLV) is used, the dog can be protected from both CAV-1 and CAV-2 for a long time, although titer testing can be effectively used to check that immunity is being maintained. “The minimum DOI for CAV-1 and CAV-2 vaccines, based on challenge immunity for CAV-1, is 7 years,” reports the AAHA Canine Vaccine Task Force. “The minimum DOI based on antibody titers is at least 9 years.”

CAV-2 is usually administered with the other canine core vaccines. “Most of the canine vaccines would be what are classically called a five-way combination, with canine distemper, canine parvo, adenovirus-2 (to protect against 1 and 2) and parainfluenza, even though the latter isn’t a core,” says Dr. Schultz. “Now, one of the manufacturers has come out with a true core combination that contains just distemper, parvo and adenovirus-2.”

Feline calicivirus (FCV) Along with feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus is the most common cause of upper respiratory infections in kittens and cats. FCV is found around the world, and is spread mainly by direct contact between cats, although it’s a hardy virus that under the right conditions can survive on dishes, bedding or litter trays for a week or more, thus

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increasing the likelihood of infection by indirect contact.

There are many strains of FCV, and symptoms can vary depending on the strain and on the general health and age of the kitten or cat – the younger the animal, the more severe the reaction. Signs may include mild fever and appetite loss, clear discharge from the nose and eyes, and mouth ulcers that can contribute to the development of chronic gingivitis.

In some cases, pneumonia can develop, while a couple of strains of FCV can also cause joint pain and lameness.

As with feline FHV-1, cats or kittens infected with FCV become carriers of the disease, and may shed virus for months or even years after recovery. There is no latent form, so carriers shed virus continuously, rather than intermittently as with FHV-1.

The FCV vaccine is usually given along with FHV-1, and should be administered to kittens at or over the age of 12 weeks. Like FHV-1, it is available in both live and killed forms, and may be administered parenterally or topically. “Maternal antibody may interfere with induction of a systemic immune response,” reports the American Association of Feline Practitioners in their Feline Vaccination Guidelines. “However, by 12 weeks of age, maternal antibody titers wane sufficiently to allow parenteral immunization. Topically administered (intranasal, conjunctival) vaccines are capable of inducing a local immune

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response in the face of high maternal antibody titers.”

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“In many instances, I recommend intranasal MLV for the calicivirus, and in other instances I recommend killed or parenteral MLV,” says Dr. Schultz. “For the average household kitten, I would recommend either the intrasnasal MLV or the killed parenteral.”

Although regarded as a core vaccine, FCV is not foolproof.

“Currently available FCV vaccines probably do not induce protection from all isolates of the virus,” says the AAFP. Adds Dr. Schultz, “For calici and herpes, titer tests are effective but it doesn’t mean the animal is going to be protected because the effectiveness of these two vaccines isn’t great.” FCV is still regarded a core vaccine, however, because it at least helps prevent the cat from serious illness if he does become infected with this very common virus.

Tiffany used to worry that if she didn’t vaccinate Minnie every year, she might not be adequately protecting her from infectious disease. “Now I know that vaccines can last a lot longer than just a year, or even three or four or five years,” she says. “And because I’m giving Minnie such a good lifestyle, I’m helping to keep her immune system strong and healthy too. She’s thriving, and I’m sure she’ll be with me for years to come.”

ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Inside this issue:

• Animal Communicators • Animal Health Care • Holistic Veterinarians

• Internet E-Tailers • Natural Product Manufacturers • Trainers & Behaviorists

• Shelters & Rescues

NEW YORK

Animal Communicators

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Animal Energy Lynn McKenzie Victoria, BC Canada Phone: 416-219-3803 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Web site: www.animalenergy.com International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing

CALIFORNIA

COLORADO

Sue Hopple Monument, CO USA Phone: 719-481-3917 Email: hop_house@msn.com Behavioral, health and lost animals. Workshops/Lectures.

Shamanic Practitioner.

ILLINOIS

Carol Schultz Plainfield, IL USA Phone: 815-254-8325 Email: carol@carolschultz.com Web site: www.carolschultz.com Nationwide consultations, Workshops/Training

Usui Reiki Master & IET (Integrated Energy Therapy) Practitioner - energy healing with Love

ONTARIO

Jim Prudom Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: 519-570-9150 Therapeutic Touch, Craniosacral, Flower Essences, Tellington Ttouch

2EIKI -ASTER !NIMAL #OMMUNICATOR

Sue Becker Kitchener, ON Canada Phone: 519-896-2600 Email: suebecker@cyg.net

,OST 0ETS

#ROSSED OVER 0ETS

"EHAVIORS

(EALTH

,IKES $ISLIKES

OREGON

MARYLAND .ICOLE %HRENTRAUT

Jean Connelly Companion Animal Care Sherman Oaks, CA USA Toll Free: 818-204-0632 Phone: 818-785-4218 Email: jeanconnelly@earthlink.net

Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Syracuse, NY USA Phone: 315-329-0116 Email: jdefonda@ark-angels.org

Wellness Resource Guide

Wellness Resource Guide

Reg’d. Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch

WWW BRIDGEOFLIGHT FLASHBUILDER NET

MONTANA

Animal Communication, transition and Grief Support, emotional and behavioral Problems, Pet sitting in THEIR home

WASHINGTON NEVADA Promote your business in the Wellness Resource Guide 1-866-764-1212

Morgine Jurdan Communications With Love Amboy, WA USA Phone: 360-247-7284 Email: morgine@tds.net Web site: www.communicationswithlove.com Workshops/Training

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Wellness Resource Guide

Animal Communicators - Animal Healthcare

WISCONSIN

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

NOVA SCOTIA

Animal Healthcare

Olga Comeau Mandala Riding & Awareness Center Hampton, NS Canada Phone: 902-665-2101 Email: mandala@ns.sympatico.ca Web site: http://www.mandalariding.com/

BRITISH COLUMBIA CatSu® Herbal Health Products Inc. Vernon, BC Canada Toll Free: 888-662-2878 Email: catsu@catsu.com Web site: www.catsu.com Unique herbal, natural pet products, Healing touch for pets.

Tellington TTouch Practitioner for horses and companion animals. Certified EAP Equine Facilitator.

OHIO

Integrated Touch Therapy Circleville, OH USA Toll Free: 800-251-0007 Phone: 740-474-6436 Email: wshaw1@bright.net Web site: www.integratedtouchtherapy.com Animal Massage Workshops

OKLAHOMA CALIFORNIA IDAHO

Anima!

McCall, ID USA Phone: 208-634-1449 Email: anima@ctcweb.net Long distance intuitive consultations with kinesiology on any issue. TTouch, Reiki and Sound Tune-ups

Emelio of Certified Paws A mobile pet massage therapist Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: 323-481-6495 Email: certifiedpaws@yahoo.com Web site: www.certifiedpaws.com Susan Draffan Shining Spirits Ojai, CA USA Phone: 805-646-2690 Email: Susan@ShiningSpirits.net Web site: www.ShiningSpirits.net

MASSACHUSETTS

ONTARIO NEBRASKA

Vibrational Essence Therapy and Formulas, Interspecies Communication, Seminars

PENNSYLVANIA NEW MEXICO Ojai School of Message

Ojai, CA USA Phone: 805-640-9798 Email: osom9@sbcglobal.net Web site: www.ojaischoolofmassage.com 150 hr. small animal & 233 hr. equine massage certification programs.

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Bera Dordoni, N.D. Bernalillo, NM USA Phone: 505-867-5616 Email: bera@singingdoctor.com Web site: www.singingdoctor.com Massage, energy work & nutritional counseling for dogs & their people

QUEBEC

K9 Companions Helen McGraw

Cantley, QC Canada Phone: 819- 827-1467 Email: Helen.McGraw@CCRS.NRCan.gc.ca Web site: http://www.k9-companions.com/ contact.shtml Syn-Flex liquid Glucosamine for pets, TTouch.

Animal Healthcare- Holistic Veterinarians

Holistic Animal Intuitive Marti Miller Austin, TX USA Phone: 512-740-3750 Email: marti2heal@austin.rr.com Web site: www.marti2heal.com

MASSACHUSETTS

Goderich Veterinary Clinic Goderich , ON Canada Phone: 519-524-2631 Email: holistic@hurontel.on.ca Complementary Medicine, Homeopathy

Specializing in nutrition, health issues, behavior, and euthanasia decisions.

Transfer Factor Gitta Vaughn San Antonio, TX USA Phone: 210-394-0738 Email: gittavaughn@earthlink.net Web site: www.gittavaughn.com

NEW JERSEY

WISCONSIN

Aquapuncture, Bach Flower Remedies, Cancer Therapies, Chiropractic, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathic, Metabolic Balancing

Mark Newkirk, VMD Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Margate City, NJ USA Phone: 609-823-3031 Patented, natural formulas support and educate the immune Email: MNewk@aol.com Web site: www.alternativevet.com system.

Guelph Animal Hospital Guelph, ON Canada Phone: 519-836-2782 Email: info@guelphvet.com Web site: www.guelphvet.com Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Massage, Therapeutic Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine

PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YORK

Holistic Veterinarians BRITISH COLUMBIA

CALIFORNIA

RHODE ISLAND

ONTARIO

Secord Animal Hospital

Toronto, ON Canada Phone: 416-486-1700 Email: secordanimalhospital@yahoo.ca Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: 905-830-1030 Email: drautumn@sympatico.ca Web site: www.holistic-vet.ca Bach Remedies, Clinical Nutrition, Herbs, Homeopathy, Physical Therapies

Cynthia Harcourt, DVM Queensville, ON Canada Phone: 905-478-1995 Homeopathy, Nutrition, Food Sensitivity Testing, Flower Essences, Herbalism, TTouch

ILLINOIS

Wellness Resource Guide

TEXAS

TEXAS

Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: 972-712-0893 Email: naturalvet@juno.com Web site: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet Integrative health care for pets.

Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Web site: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Acupuncture, Bowen, Essential oils, Nutritional support

VIRGINIA

East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: 416-757-3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Web site: www.holisticpetvet.com Acupuncture, Bach Flower Remedies, Chiropractic Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Reiki, Therapeutic Nutrition

KENTUCKY

Horizon Veterinary Services Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: 502-722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Web site: www.horizonvetserv.com

Essex Animal Clinic Janice Huntingford, DVM Essex, ON Canada Phone: 519-776-7325 Email: essexanimalclinic@cogeco.net Web site: www.essexanimalclinic.com Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional & Alternative Medicine & Surgery, Holistic Medicine, Physio & Rehab Therapies,

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Wellness Resource Guide

Internet E-Tailers - Natural Product Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers

Internet E-Tailers

SitStay.com Lincoln, NE USA Toll Free: 800-SITSTAY Phone: 402-467-3426 Email: darcie@sitstay.com Web site: www.sitstay.com

ILLINOIS

Online E-tailer

Natural Products -

Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers

BRITISH COLUMBIA

MAINE

Only Natural

Dakota’s Dejeuner Portland, ME USA Phone: 207-773-4344 Email: deedee@dakotasdejeuner.com Web site: www.dakotasdejeuner.com

Pet Store

Visit our online store for a huge selection of natural products for your pets!

1-888-937-6677 www.onlynaturalpet.com

Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. Richmond, BC Canada Phone: 604-276-9799 Email: info@gidbc.ca Web site: www.gidbc.ca Grain-Free - using organic ingredients, no perservatives or additives

CALIFORNIA

Dharma Dog Sonora, CA USA Phone: 209-532-5081 Email: dharmadog@pacbell.net Web site: www.dharmadog.com Raw diets, supplements, training, treats & toys, flower essences, homeopathic remedies

CONNECTICUT

Wean & aid your pets off commercial food onto a raw diet with all natural, homemade Dakota’s Dejeuner!

MARYLAND

BarfDirect.com Savage , MD USA Phone: 910-218-2977 Email: sales@barfdirect.com Web site: www.barfdirect.com BarfDirect provides raw diets, dehydrated diets, supplements and treats for your companion

NEW JERSEY

The Well-Healed PET Claire Coppola Kinnelon, NJ USA Phone: 973-492-8450 Email: claire@canine-site.com Web site: www.canine-site.com Essential Oils for healthy/happy pets. Young Living member #787163

NEW MEXICO

Dachshund Orthopedic Disc Group Linda Stowe Champaign, IL USA Phone: 217-359-7148 Email: lstowe@uiuc.edu Web site: http://www.dodgerslist.com Help fight dachshund disc disease

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NEW YORK

Whiskers Holistic Pet Products New York, NY USA Toll Free: 800-944-7537 Phone: 212-979-2532 Email: healthypet@msn.com

Natural Product Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers - Trainers & Behaviorists

MASSACHUSETTS

Feline rescue

OREGON

Natures Balance to Equine Care Estacada, OR USA Toll Free: 866-821-0374 Phone: 503-630-3744 Email: info@NaturesBalanceCare.com Web site: www.NaturesBalanceCare.com

SASKATCHEWAN

Urban Carnivore, The Saskatoon, SK Canada Toll Free: 888-665-0856 Phone: 306-665-0856 Email: info@urbancarnivore.com Web site: www.urbancarnivore.com Call for a retail location

SOUTH CAROLINA

Friends For Pets Foundation Sun Valley, CA USA Phone: 818-767-5919 Email: friendsforpets@yahoo.com Web site: www.friendsforpets.org All breed dog rescue

CONNECTICUT

Friends of Felines, Inc Stamford, CT USA Phone: 203-359-2802 Email: patonjanine@sbcglobal.net Web site: www.adoptapet.org Feline Rescue

GEORGIA

Liberty Humane Shelter Hinesville, GA USA Phone: 912-876-5477 Email: libertyshelter@yahoo.com All Breeds

ILLINOIS

WISCONSIN

Magnificent Mutts & Such Rescue Hillside, IL USA Phone: 708-544-6532 Email: tritown@aol.com Web site: www.magnificentmutts.org All Breeds

ILLINOIS

Magnificent Mutts & Such Rescue Hillside, IL USA Phone: 708-544-6532 Email: tritown@aol.com Web site: www.magnificentmutts.org

Pawsafe Animal Rescue Medford, MA USA Phone: 781-316-3950 Email: diane@pawsafe.org Web site: www.pawsafe.org All breed rescue

MICHIGAN

Pet Angel Adoption and Rescue Frankenmuth, MI USA Phone: 989-652-2730 Email: petangeladoption@hotmail.com Web site: petangel.petfinder.com All breed rescue

TEXAS

Plano Animal Shelter Plano, TX USA Phone: 972-769-4375 Email: debbien@plano.gov Web site:www.planotx.org/animal All breed rescue

Second Chance San Antonio, TX USA Phone: 210-415-1180 Email: dibo@uthscsa.edu Web site:www.petfinder.org/shelters/tx698.html

Wellness Resource Guide

FieldHaven Feline Rescue Lincoln, CA USA Phone: 916-434-6022 Email: fieldhaven@att.net Web site: www.fieldhaven.com

All breed rescue

Trainers & Behaviorists CALIFORNIA

All Breeds

Shelters/Rescues CALIFORNIA

Animal Avengers Los Angles, CA USA Phone: 323-655-4220 Email: admin@animalavengers.com

Midwest Akita Rescue Society Chicago, IL USA Phone: 773-792-1309 Email: marsakita@sbcglobal.net Web site: www.akitas.org Akita Rescue

All breed rescue

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Best behavior!

Paul Owens

Suzanne Hetts, PhD Dr. Suzanne Hetts,

Gillian Ridgeway

a certified applied

is the director

animal behaviorist

of

known speaker and author.

Who’s Walking Who Dog Training Centre in Toronto, Ontario. She

her husband,

her dog walking career in

Littleton, Colorado, is an

in

internationally

She and Dr. Dan Estep, help

understand animal behavior.

Small Animal Nutrition and Small Animal Dermatology. www.whoswalkingwho.net.

Visit

them on the web at www.AnimalBehaviorAssociates.com.

Q

Thank you for providing a much needed safe and loving environment for this dog!

Normally, it takes a dog 30 or so days to acclimate to a new environment. Since dogs thrive on predictable routines with positive outcomes, you may find the situation improves as she gets use to your lifestyle.

For separation anxiety. a professional trainer can show you how to get your dog used to your departures and returns, but there are some immediate steps you can take. First, set up a safe environment so your dog can’t destroy any property, escape, and/or injure herself. Also, make sure your vet has given her a clean bill of health. Here are some other ideas: Keep things quiet and calm when you leave and come home. When you leave, either say nothing or offer a simple, unemotional “later”. When you come home, ignore her for 90 seconds or so (this might be difficult at first!) and allow her adrenaline to subside a little. Pay attention to her when she is

animal wellness

1972,

and also has certificates in

I adopted a 1½-year-old female pit bull mix from a couple who were neglecting her. She is very sweet but has a habit of whining whenever I leave her sight. I thought it might get better after I’d had her for awhile but it’s been weeks now and no change. I take her with me as many places as I can (even to work) to give her a sense of security but her behavior stays the same. Is there anything I can do?

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began

pet parents and professionals better

Dear Paul:

A

Gillian Ridgeway Photo: Todd Buttenham

Paul Owens is the author of The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training, now also available on DVD. Certified by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and endorsed by the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, Paul is the director of Raise with Praise, Inc., based in Burbank, California. www.dogwhispererdvd.com.

Is your dog or cat behaviorally challenged? Ask our experts how you can get them on the road to better behavior.

a bit more relaxed.

Change your departure routines. Dogs predict what’s about to happen by making associations. Leave by a different door, put your keys where so they don’t make a noise, go out for a few minutes and then return to eat breakfast, etc. Practice leaving and returning throughout the day, especially on weekends when you can practice more often.

Turn the TV or radio on 30 minutes before you leave. Classical, new age and even country music work best.

Tire your dog out by giving her more exercise before you go to work.

Give her a treat-filled Kong to keep her busy and take her mind off you leaving. A dog is often most distressed during the first 20 minutes of your departure. Giving her something to do during this period often helps.

Have a dog walker stop by to check up on her.

Holistic therapies such as Bach Flower remedies, herbal aids and aromatherapy have proven very effective for many dogs.

Dear Gillian:

Q

I adopted a two-year-old husky/shepherd from the local Humane Society. She is a wonderful dog and has brought much joy to my life, but walking her is a nightmare. She just about pulls my arm out of the

Best behavior! socket. I don’t want to use a choke chain and she seems to shake herself loose from nose halter leashes.

How can I get her to walk nicely on a leash?

A

With dog training in general, we start out in very small increments and build on that with focus and distraction training. I would suggest that you get your dog a flat buckle collar and leash and start to reward her for being beside you every time you take a step. This might sound like a lot of work, but imagine trying to teach your dog to stay by walking across a football field and hoping she won’t move. Instead, you’d teach her by moving away only one step at a time. You can use a cue word such as “close”. Instead of pulling her back when she makes a mistake, reward her with something tasty for not pulling in the first place. Start in a non-distracting environment with short training sessions of a few minutes each. Once she has mastered walking a few steps for the treat, increase the number of steps you take each day before you present the treat.

When you are first teaching her not to pull, do it as a separate exercise in a quiet area. The head halter is a great tool, and if properly fitted should not come loose.

immediate than anything else.

It’s also possible that she gets on the counter to attract your attention and start a kitty game – it’s fun to hear Mom come and yell and then run and hide from her!

Finally, cats enjoy climbing, jumping, and being in high places. Meet her behavioral needs by giving her a tall cat condo or window perch, and maybe even hide a few healthy treats in those locations. This will allow her to forage, another enjoyable feline behavior, without causing problems for you.

If

you have a dog or cat with a behavioral issue,

please submit your questions to:

Best Behavior, feedback@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

at

Editor’s note: This column is for information purposes and is not meant to replace behavioral training. To properly address your animal’s needs, please consult a behaviorist.

Dear Dr. Suzanne:

Q

I’ve had several cats but my most recent, an outgoing, sweet two-year-old calico, is the first one that consistently jumps up on my kitchen counters. She gets into anything she can find up there, including the covered butter dish. She does this at all hours of the night and day so it’s not always easy to catch her in the act. Is there anything you can recommend?

A

First, remove the butter dish, and any other “goodies” on the kitchen counter. If your cat even only occasionally finds food there, counter-surfing behavior is rewarded and will continue.

Second, strategically position harmless “booby traps” on the counter, such as Snappy Trainers®, a safe, modified mousetrap that springs in the air when disturbed, or a SSSCat®, which delivers a harmless spray. (See my website for more on these products.)

These will startle but not harm her, and help her learn that counters can be frightening. Remote punishment, triggered by her behavior, will be more consistent and

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Natural

pest control keeps your garden

healthy and

animal-friendly

by Andy Lopez The key to a home and garden that’s healthy for your dog and cat, as well as for your kids, is natural pest control. One of my favorite products is Dr Bronner’s Soaps, which have been around for over 50 years and are still going strong. I started using this great soap back in the sixth grade when I first began my natural pest control business. It’s basically an essential oil and of a very high energy quality level. Only herbs are used to make a concentrate. Not too many insects can handle this soap! The many different scents range from lavender and peppermint to almond and tea tree oil and are excellent both for bathing yourself and your pets as well as

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controlling insects in your home and garden.

There are many other types of natural soaps on the market as well. Just be sure to read the ingredients. If the product contains sodium laurel sulfate, then I would not use it. This substance has been known to cause liver disorders in both humans and animals. Please stick to products with natural ingredients. Ivory soap is not natural; the ingredients are toxic to your pets!

Household pests and how to control them, naturally Ants (including carpenter and fire ants) To one quart of water add five tablespoons of natural peppermint soap. You should switch between peppermint, lavender, almond or eucalyptus soaps for the best results.

You may have to make the solution stronger as needed.

Any natural soap will do; just read the ingredients and make sure it’s 100% natural.

Soap solutions for trees, roses and vegetables

Inside the house, spray this mixture anywhere ants are seen – around windows, in the kitchen, bathroom, etc.

Avoid using on furniture.

Trees

You can spray the same mixture on ants or ant trails outside the home, but avoid spraying plants.

Dr Bronner’s Soaps are types of tree pests. I use hardware store) to spray I put a special tip on the and soap (16 to 1).

very effective for controlling many an in-line feeder (found at the local natural soaps high up in the trees. hose that shoots a mixture of water

Roses Natural soaps are a very safe way to control the many pests that can attack roses. A basic formula contains ten tablespoons of soap per quart of water, or no more than one ounce per gallon. It can be used on its own or mixed with other things to increase its effectiveness. Try adding two tablespoons of crushed garlic (either oil or strained or try a gel pill from the health food store) per quart of water, one tablespoon of tea tree oil per quart of water, or two tablespoons of castor oil per quart of water See www.invisiblegardener.com/roses.htm for more information. Avoid spraying on hot days (over 90°F). It’s best to spray in the early morning (if the day is not going to get too hot) or in the late afternoon. For best results, spray at night when the pests are out!

Vegetables Using natural soaps to control pests on vegetables makes a lot of sense for many reasons, the most important of which is that the soaps are non-toxic. All you need to do is wash the vegetables before using. Soap kills many insects on contact. You have to first find the proper strength; make it too strong and you might kill the plant, while if it’s too weak it won’t work at all.

As a preventative, use one tablespoon of peppermint soap per quart of water. Add seaweed as per instructions on my website. Spray on vegetables on a regular basis or at the first sign of trouble.

For specific pests, use five tablespoons of soap per quart water. Test first on the plant/bug to see if it is too strong, or not strong enough.

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Bees If bees are a problem in the garden, you can control them in several ways: 1. Control sources of food and water.

2. Spray the area with a solution of four tablespoons of soap added to one quart of water.

3. Dip cotton balls into soap, or any essential oil such as lavender or citronella.

4. Burn citronella candles.

Beetles From furniture beetles to carpet beetles, many of these insects make our home theirs. House-dwelling beetles have become so specialized that they have developed distinct differences from their wild counterparts. Beetles have a wider range of food sources than most indoor insects, so you must control these sources as much as possible. If you have only a few beetles around, their removal is most simply done by hand picking them.

Centipedes It is important to note that centipedes are one of your best friends both in the home and garden. Inside, they eat flies, roach and ant eggs, fleas and their eggs, and almost anything else they run into while hunting at night.

My suggestion is to leave them alone! If you can’t stand them in the house, you can get rid of them by controlling their environment and limiting food sources; centipedes require humid places and something to prey on.

Chiggers These creatures are bloodsuckers that attack humans and animals. Controlling them is really a matter of proper prevention. Nature will control them for you under normal conditions. Your best bet is to wear proper clothing when going outdoors, and bring along the following in a kit: one bottle of rubbing alcohol, a one-quart sprayer, an eight-ounce bottle of lavender or peppermint soap, and water if possible.

Add one tablespoon of alcohol to one quart of water in sprayer, and spray around your feet and pants before you start walking outside. Repeat every hour or so. If you’re going camping, you can spray the area and inside the tent. You can also add one tablespoon of soap to the mixture.

Crows Crows can be deterred by any of the following methods.

1. Ultra sonic devices emit a sound that most birds do not like.

2. Use aluminum foil strips hung from branches.

3. Use a loud horn to repel crows.

4. Use a motion sensor attached to a sprinkler which turns on when crows approach.

Crickets My mother told me that crickets in the house are good fortune.

So bet on the lottery and be happy! If they really do bother you, repair torn screens or any holes in the side or under the house where they can enter. Once a day, spray around the outside of the house and other areas they frequent, using one tablespoon peppermint soap, Citra solve or any natural herbal soap.

Daddy long legs This is another predator (actually a spider) that is a friend of the family and should be left alone. They will mind their own business if you mind yours!

Earwigs These are also predators which play an important role in the garden and are best left alone. If you find them inside, you can remove them to the outdoors, then check for torn screens and other possible entrances. Too many earwigs usually mean plants have been grown with chemical fertilizers and not organically; whenever you have an infestation of any one insect, that means there is a greater problem. Earwigs are normally a very minor problem, never come inside with an organic environment, and are even less trouble outdoors where other predators will eat them.

Fleas and ticks During flea and tick season, dust your dog once a week with garden grade diatomaceous earth. You can also provide him with a natural herbal collar or an electronic collar. Bathe animal wellness

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Oh no! Look what the cat dragged in!

dogs regularly with any natural soap.

Gnats Gnats can be controlled by using any type of natural soap. A small quantity of soap will suffocate a gnat. A good strength is one tablespoon of natural soap per quart of water.

Mice Mice have very sensitive noses, so by using the right type of soap (e.g. lavender), you can keep them away without hurting your pets. Just remember that dogs and cats have sensitive noses too, so keep them outside when you spray and try to use the smallest quantity that will work.

House Moths

Clean it up with Natumate®.

Get the best stain and odor remover on the market! Natumate is 100% guaranteed to instantly eliminate organic stains and odors such as pet accidents, urine, vomit, dirt and just about anything your pet can get into. Made of natural/sustainable ingredients that are non-polluting and 100% biodegradable. Free of harsh and toxic chemicals. Safe on carpets, tile, floors, upholstery, fabric, sealed wood and dirty laundry.

Don’t let a mess get between you and your pet, remove it with Natumate ! ®

®

Moth larvae eat many items found around the home, such as wool, cotton and grain. In nature, they eat anything from dead insects to feathers and pollen.

1. Remove food sources such as food, drink, water, sweat or urine stains.

2. Vacuum regularly, and wash curtains, rugs and other items once a year.

3. Check all items before they come into an area, including clothing, shoe boxes, newspaper, and anything being stored. Store food in containers.

4. Use a flea trap. One product in particular, the Ultimate Flea Trap, is basically a small light that shines on a sticky mat. Insects, including moths, are attracted to the light and get stuck on the mat. You can also get hanging sticky traps or box traps.

5. Set up long-term deterrents such as ultrasonic devices or aromatherapy scents. Try peppermint or citronella oil. Other control methods include heat (over 120ºF for four hours) and cold. Camphor is often used to control moths. Be careful handling it, though.

Read the instructions carefully and avoid breathing it. Do not use camphror if you are very sensitive to odors as it has a very strong smell. Pyrethrum can also be used to control moths but be careful as it can stain cloth. It’s best dusted around shelves and under storage areas. It will last indefinitely indoors.

6. Bacillus thuringiensis can be used to control house moths if it’s used outside early in the spring before the insects make their way inside.

Boric acid can be used to effectively control moths in the home by lightly dusting it over clothing before storage. It won’t damage the cloth.

Scorpions Scorpions are one of the better known predators and also one of the most feared. But they should be left alone. If found inside, remove them to the outdoors if possible. Locate torn screens, openings in walls, and other ways they can get inside the house. Use a mixture of peppermint soap to spray inside the house.

®

Earth Friendly Products

Silverfish

There’s clean. And then there’s Honest Clean

Also known as booklice, silverfish are common in homes. They’re very rarely a problem, although they do eat paper products and can be introduced into the home along with boxes, books, etc. These small creatures prefer high humidity and cannot survive for long without water. Control food sources,

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humidity and provide traps to catch them with. A good trap is a bowl half filled with vinegar and placed in the areas silverfish are found. Check the next day and replace with fresh vinegar. Vacuuming and steam cleaning also works well. Store pet food, grains, etc., in sealed containers.

house or garden while you do the spraying.

Happy gardening!

Spiders 1. Find out how they are entering your home and fix broken screens, etc.

2. Clean places where there are lots of spider webs, both inside and out, and clean under beds, couches, and furniture where spiders like to hide.

3. To get immediate relief from spiders inside the house, add five tablespoons of Dr. Bronners Peppermint or Lavender Soap, or any other natural soap, to a quart of water.

Add five tablespoons of any natural citrus oil and label the bottle “spider control spray.” Spray inside the house where spiders are seen, as often as needed.

Dr Bronner’s and other natural soaps are safe to use around your pets. Just remember that they have very sensitive noses, so keep them in a different part of the

Andy Lopez, also known as The Invisible Gardener, has a Degree in Horticulture from the University of Florida and has been specializing in organic gardening for many years. He has written several books, including The Organic Growers’ Manual and Natural Pest Control: Alternative to Chemicals for the Home and Garden. His radio show, Don’t Panic It’s Organic, airs on CRNI.NET every Saturday at 10am PST. For more information on natural pest control, visit www.invisiblegardener.com.

Talkin’ Pets ................with Jon Patch “Talkin’ Pets” offers live, fun-filled discussions about pets and our other friends in the animal kingdom. Host Jon Patch and his expert guests have made this program America’s favorite pet show!

Jon is joined frequently by expert guests in the veterinary and animal behavioral fields. Breed and medical tips are weekly features as well as updates in animal news. Environmental tips and advice on how to make our environment a safer, more enjoyable place to live.

America’s Favorite Pet Show!

Heard in over 100 Cities Nationwide!

• Business TalkRadio Network™ • Sirius Satellite Radio • Cable Radio Network

P.O.Box 262526 Tampa, FL 33685 Phone: (813) 888-5043 Fax: (813) 888-9650

w w w. t a l k i n p e t s . c o m • j o n p a t c h @ t a l k i n p e t s . c o m 64

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2005 SCHEDULE July August SeptEmber October

Vaccinations High Cholesterol Special Needs Diets Yoga for Dogs

November

Toxic Toys vs. Good Toys

December

Top 10 Animal Gifts for 2005

To find a radio station in your area, go to:

www.talkinpets.com or email

jonpatch@talkinpets.com

Selenium – good for you. . . good for your companion!

Food

by Ann Brightman

Micrograms

Brazil nuts, dried, unblanched (1 ounce)

544

Tuna, canned in oil, drained (3 ounces)

63

Beef, cooked (3½ ounces)

35

Turkey, light meat, cooked (3½ ounces)

32

Chicken breast, cooked (3½ ounces)

20

Egg (1 medium)

14

W

Cottage cheese, low fat (½ cup) 12 e’ve heard of selenium, reduce the selenium requirebut not all of us know ments,” says Dr. Messonnier.

Brown rice, cooked (½ cup) 10 exactly what it is and what it “By ensuring that pets receive does. Along with vitamins C adequate amounts of both and E and beta carotene, selenium is an antioxidant, although it vitamin E and selenium, these important nutrients will not be doesn’t seem to receive as much attention as the rest. This doesn’t deficient and will work together to help fight oxidative damage mean it isn’t important; in fact, selenium is vital to the health of in your pet’s body.” The same approach applies to humans. both humans and animals.

Selenium is found in many foods including nuts (especially A trace mineral, selenium is converted in the body to an enzyme Brazil nuts!), seafood, eggs, rice and oats. But there’s a problem. called glutathione peroxidase, which acts as an antioxidant Although selenium occurs naturally in the earth, modern farming to protect cells from free radical damage. Free radicals are practices have depleted the soil in many regions, which means a by-products of oxygen metabolism, highly unstable atoms or lot of foods no longer contain adequate levels of this important molecules that damage DNA and lead to cancer and other mineral. Unless you have access to organically raised food, you illnesses. The formation of free radicals is accelerated by toxins in might want to consider selenium supplements for you and your our food, water and air, which is why antioxidants are becoming dog or cat. Humans can take up to 200 micrograms daily. “The increasingly important as a way to maintain good health.

AAFCO recommendation is 0.11 mg/kg of food (dry matter basis) for dogs, and 0.1 mg/kg of food for cats,” says Dr. Messonnier, but Selenium not only helps protect against cancer, but also heart adds that further studies suggest this could be doubled. disease, strokes, cataracts, macular degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis and skin problems. It helps maintain thyroid hormone Pass the Brazil nuts, please! levels and can combat inflammation. There is evidence it can strengthen the immune system and may even be useful against AIDS. “In pets, selenium is often prescribed (along with Deep penetrating Infrared heat other antioxidants) for a variety of disorders, for sore muscles, joints, back including epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disproblems and hip dysplasia ease, feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus and cancer,” says Dr. Shawn Messonnier BENEFITS: in his Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.

• Increased blood flow • Regenerates cell growth For the best results, selenium should be taken • Speeds up healing in conjunction with vitamin E. “Adequate • Recommended by Vets amounts of selenium can spare vitamin E, infraredheatandmassagefordogs.com and Medical Doctors and adequate amounts of vitamin E can

Infrared Heat and Massage for Dogs

619-470-4765

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zing animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing an

Congratulations to our 3rd annual

Amazing Animals Photo Contest Winners!

Our readers rock! We received hundreds of entries for our third annual Amazing Animals Photo Contest

BEST PHOTO

and it took weeks to narrow it down. Thank you to

“Suzie” by Joanne Lowe Toronto, ON

everyone who took the time to enter – we loved each and every photo. If you didn't win, remember to look for your animal's photo in future issues of Animal Wellness Magazine. It's our way of paying tribute to the animals you love so much.

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"I'll have the french manicure" Wins original portrait by Robyn Feeley of Bungalow Art www.bungalowart.com

nimals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals BEST EYES “Lola” by Donna Carr Lakewood, CO

Where's an eyelash curler when you need one?

Wins Neopaws boots and Beverly Hills Mutt Club denim coat and bandana. www.neo-paws.com www.beverlyhillsmuttclub.com

BIGGEST ATTITUDE “Tasha” by Save a Shepherd Rescue Hatfield, PA

Being cool is a state of mind, but it helps if you've got the look.

Wins gift basket from Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. and products from Fresh Pet Club www.gidbc.ca www.freshpetclub.com

BEST NATURE LOVER “Lucy” by Mariah Mountanos Ukiah, CA

"I know I need supervision, but do you have to follow me everywhere?"

Wins gift basket from Great Life Performance Pet Products. www.greatlife4pets.com

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mals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals a MOST ARTISITC “Bagel” by Kennedy Lee Scarborough, ON

“Did somebody say 'walk'?”

Wins gift basket from Chez Puppy. www.chezpuppy.com

FUNNIEST “Merlin” by Christy Kennedy Royal Oak, MI

"Forget downward-facing dog. My yogi calls this the sideways stretching cat!"

Wins Animal Wellness gift basket.

MOST ATHLETIC “Molly" by Aileen Tubbs Springfield, VA

Jumping for joy!

Wins dog massager from Infrared Heat and Massage for Dogs and an amulet from animulets. www.infraredheatandmassagefordogs.com www.animalamulets.com 68

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amazing animals

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g animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing animals amazing anim HAPPIEST “Hudson and Mazie” Jessie Kendrick Calgary, AB

“...well, the sun's comin' up, I got cakes on the griddle.

Life ain't nothin' but a funny, funny riddle.

Thank God I'm a country dog...”

Wins dog bed from DogBedWorks.com

BEST BOND “Niki” by Ann Varelis Toronto, ON

“Just try to get up now!"

Wins quilt gift set from 100% Angel www.100pctangel.com

BEST PALS “Breezy & Tonka” Cathy Rollit McDonald's Corners, ON

True love transcends species.

Wins Animal Wellness gift basket

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HONORABLE MENTIONS All of our honorable mentions will receive Animal Wellness Magazine Living Pawsitive T-Shirts!

"Baily and Paddy"

by John Constable Oakland, CA

"Felix" the one-eyed cat sitting "like a man" by Russ & Dana Laggan Livonia, MI

"Keeva" by Theresa Swain Calgary, AB "Angus" by Olivia D'Antuono Bailey, CO reading Animal Wellness Magazine

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Go gently into that good night –

G

by Susan Israel George Carlin once said that a relationship with a pet is guaranteed to someday end badly. That may sound cynical, but it’s what happened to Susan Metcalf and Nikki, a Dalmatian with hip dysplasia.

When Nikki’s condition worsened early in 2003, Susan sold her condo and moved back with her parents, stopped going out with friends, and provided for Nikki 24/7. “Nikki was my sidekick,” Susan says, “I wanted to be the best little godmom I could be.” Susan kept Nikki as comfortable as she could, turned her, carried her, and helped her walk. Although a chiropractor made house calls, none of her regular vets did. Had a

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Clockwise from above: Rachel Gilligan, DVM, of Mobile Pet Hospice Care. Nikki going up a ramp Susan Metcalf built for her comfort and ease. Susan and Nikki sharing a kiss. Nikki in her prime.

hospice care for animals veterinary professional diagnosed the bedsore Nikki developed, antibiotics might have prevented the deadly sepsis that followed. Susan was told Nikki had to be euthanized right away. “I didn’t want to do it, but I didn’t want her to suffer.

What were my options?”

When Kathryn Marocchino’s 13-year-old tabby, also named Nikki, was diagnosed with acute kidney failure in 1996, she was also made to feel that euthanasia was the only option.

Having been trained as a human hospice volunteer, Kathryn couldn’t understand why there wasn’t a similar program for companion animals, so she formed the Nikki Hospice Foundation. Nearly 35 veterinarians nationwide now participate in the network, and animal guardians whose own vets scratch their heads at the mention of “pet hospice” can call Kathryn for support and referrals.

Gianfranco Marocchino kisses his eleven-year-old borzoi, Anastasia, as she lies on the family couch. Anastasia was lovingly hospiced at home during the last few weeks of her life while she was suffering from megaesophagus and an inoperable tumor of the spinal cord that affected her ability to walk or stand.

What is hospice care?

Ideally, hospice care involves people and their veterinarians working together, sometimes with the assistance of vet techs, to make a terminally ill animal as comfortable as possible.

Although members of the Nikki Hospice Foundation’s advisory board will encourage vets to give it a try, people sometimes meet with resistance and even accusations of animal abuse for refusing euthanasia. Eileen Kinder, who hospiced her rabbit Leo after her first one died of a respiratory infection says, “If your vet won’t work with you, find someone else.”

Eileen Kinder look on as her son Nathan cradles their twelve-yearold rabbit, Leo, a victim of torticollis (commonly known as wry neck) and convulsions. Leo was spoon-fed and provided all the comforts of home hospice care during the last three months of his life.

There is concern among some providers that “hospice” may not be the best term to use. “We don’t want hospice to be confused with a refusal to consider euthanasia,” says Dr. Guy Hancock, past President of the American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, and the Director of the Vet Tech Program and Dean of the Veterinary Technology School at St. Petersburg College in Florida. He prefers to think of it as “one more idea to consider when it comes to end-of-life issues. When an animal has a chronic illness but has quality of life, hospice care is an option.”

Most people, when made aware their animal has a terminal condition, have a hard time coping. If they are reluctant to consider euthanasia, Dr. Hancock feels hospice care offers an alternative; people have time to enjoy their animals longer, and when the end does come, their companions die peacefully at home. Veterinary technicians could play a huge role in

Blake, a black male Great Dane was adopted by Alyssa Vanderzanden of Hermosa Beac, CA, when he was five years old.

He developed bone cancer in his shoulder blade at age seven.

Alyssa requested that Blake remain at home in Pawspice care until his passing four months after the diagnosis. Pictured here is Alyssa with Blake, as he spent his last days lying comfortably on his couch. Winnie, also a rescue, looks on. animal wellness

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Does he have quality of life?

providing palliative care and, as in the case of Susan’s dog, could avert life-threatening complications.

Dr. Villalobos relies on a Quality of Life scale to determine the success of hospice care. On a scale of 1 to 10, she generally considers a score over 5 acceptable in the following categories:

Maintaining quality of life

Hurt – Adequate pain control, including breathing ability, is first and foremost on the scale. Can the animal’s pain be successfully managed? Does he need oxygen?

Hunger – Is the animal willingly eating enough? Does he require assistance via liquification or a feeding tube?

Hydration – If the animal isn’t drinking enough, subcutaneous fluids supplement fluid intake.

Hygiene – The animal should be kept brushed and cleaned, particularly after elimination, and any necrotic wounds cleansed.

Happiness – Does the animal express joy? Is he responsive to things around him (his family, toys, etc.)?

It’s best not to leave a sick animal isolated.

Mobility – Can the animal move around on his own or does he need human or mechanical help (e.g. a cart)?

Does he feel like going for a walk? Is he having seizures or stumbling? (Some owners feel euthanasia is preferable to amputation, yet an animal who has limited mobility but is still alert and responsive can have good quality of life as long as his person is committed to helping him.)

More good days than bad – When there are too many bad days in a row, quality of life is too compromised. When a healthy human-animal bond is no longer possible, the person must be made aware the end is near. The decision needs to be made if the animal is suffering too greatly and should be euthanized.

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Dr. Tami Shearer, author of The Essential Book for Dogs Over 5, says that knowing what danger signs to look for, along with early intervention, can mean more quality time for animals and people.

Dr. Shearer teaches classes in hospice care as well as first aid and essential care for animals over five at the Pet Hospice and Education Center adjacent to her veterinary clinic in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Shearer practiced hospice informally for over 15 years before her center became nonprofit in 2004, and says that personal loss has made her even more committed. She makes jewelry out of fused glass to sell for funds for a Hospice Prevention Fund, to allay treatment costs for animal lovers whose only other alternative might be euthanasia. “It disturbs me that some people have to opt for euthanasia because of money problems,” Dr. Shearer says.

Dr. Alice Villalobos relies on a Quality of Life scale to determine the success of a hospice care program (see sidebar). “If a pet is having poor quality of life, it’s time to give him back,” says Dr. Villalobos, who was the first veterinary oncologist in the Los Angeles area in 1972. Many of the animals in her practice, which she named Pawspice, do very well. “We can do a lot for them,” she says, adding that it can be a victory to have two or three extra months of real quality time. People have thanked her for giving their animal one last great day. “Many times the patient has been written off,” says Dr. Villalobos. “If an old dog has cancer and is fine in every other way, why shouldn’t we treat him?” Her own dog Alaska, who has degenerative myelopathy, is a Pawspice patient.

The concept is still new for veterinary medicine. Only one veterinary school in the country, Colorado State University, has incorporated hospice care into its curriculum, although several schools, including Ohio Veterinary College, have contacted Dr. Villalobos to request the use of her articles in introducing hospice care to students.

“A lot of what I do every day I never heard of in veterinary school,” says Dr. Rachel Gilligan, who runs a mobile veterinary practice in Orange County, California. In addition to making routine house calls to give check-ups to healthy animals, Dr. Gilligan also provides hospice assistance. About 25 of her patients are in hospice care at various levels. People who have decided to make their animals’ last days as comfortable as possible, and don’t want to expose them to the trauma of one more visit to the animal hospital, call Dr. Gilligan. She visits them at home to coach, provide supportive care, and when the time comes, to euthanize the animals. “I want every vet in the U.S. to be doing this in the next ten years,” Dr. Gilligan says.

When Alyssa Vanderzanden’s great Dane, Blake, was diagnosed with bone cancer, she decided not to put him through surgery but to make the best of his remaining time. Euthanasia was not an option,

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she says, recalling a dog with severe mobility problems that she’d had put to sleep years ago. “I always regretted it,” she says. As luck would have it, Alyssa had moved next door to Dr. Villalobos shortly before Blake was diagnosed. Dr. Villalobos prescribed pain control and Blake continued to thrive and have a healthy appetite until one last walk to the beach. After that, he stopped eating, wouldn’t take his medication, or let Alyssa put her hands on him. A week later, he died peacefully. “Dr. Villalobos told me, ‘Each dog has something to teach us and once we learn what it is, it’s easier to let go,’” says Alyssa. Blake’s message was clear. “He was holding out for one last great walk to the beach.”

“When you have an animal for 12 years, he’s part of the family,” says Eileen. “I don’t have any regrets about hospicing Leo. The whole family slept on the floor with him the night before he died, and the next day we buried him and celebrated his life.”

For more information, visit The Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets at www.csum.edu/pethospice or The American Association of HumanAnimal Bond Veterinarians at www.aahabv.org/Hospice.htm. For more on hospice care, as well as related resources (grief counseling, etc.), visit www.specialneedspets.org.hospice.htm.

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Susan Israel

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wishes hospice care was available years ago to help her with her beloved

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animal wellness

is a freelance writer in

English

cocker spaniel,

New Haven, Connecticut. She

Freckles.

legal beagle

Feral cats… solving the problem with compassion and compromise

S

by Robert Ferber

Some people find them a nuisance, while others devote their lives to caring for them, often in defiance of local laws. One way or another, communities all over North America are engaged in emotional and sometimes vicious debates about the so-called “feral cat problem”.

Feral cats tend to live in “colonies” that range in size from three or four up to several hundred. While their presence in a rural or industrial area may not be troublesome, they can pose a problem in residential communities, where most people find them an aggravation. Many homeowners complain of the smell of spraying and of excessive urine and feces on their properties. Because most ferals aren’t spayed or neutered, the screams of mating cats keep them up at night and agitate their dog and cat companions.

Bird lovers hate feral cats because they prey on local birdlife. People sometimes even find colonies living under their houses or in attic spaces. Although there are people who sympathize with the plight of these cats, most still maintain they have a right to enjoy their properties without the nuisance of a feral colony.

Animal welfare advocates obviously feel differently. Most are sensitive to the rights of property owners, but believe

that for humane reasons we must co-exist with these wild felines. They argue that homeowners often exaggerate the problem or have unreasonable expectations about animals living in their neighborhood, pointing out that the majority of cat owners/guardians allow their own domesticated cats to wander without the intolerance that feral cats suffer. Cat experts concede that feral cats need human intervention, but don’t believe the solution is to kill or remove the cats. Studies show that if feral cat colonies are destroyed or removed, other ferals fill the void and the problem quickly returns.

The TNR approach Feral cat experts feel the only solution to the problem is to use a method called Trap, Neuter and Release or TNR. This involves humanely capturing feral cats, having them fixed and checked for disease, then releasing them back into their colony. Eventually, as more cats are spayed or neutered, the population declines. Successful TNR requires volunteers who create and maintain “feeding stations” where cats are fed and encouraged to defecate and urinate as far away from human homes as possible. Cleanup of

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legal beagle excessive waste is also often taken care of by volunteers.

Opponents to this approach are vehemently opposed to the reintroduction of the cats into their original neighborhoods. They feel they have suffered enough from the cats and are skeptical about the success of TNR. However, the premise upon which TNR is based requires that the captured and sterilized cats must be reintroduced to the same neighborhood, for two reasons.

First, the sterilized ferals must be available to “mate” with the remaining fertile cats, or the latter will simply continue mating with other unfixed cats. Secondly, each colony seems to maintain a certain number of cats. For example, if 20 or 30 cats are removed from a colony of 50 and not returned, another 20 or 30 unsterilized cats will eventually fill the void and bring the numbers back up to 50.

TNR therefore calls for patience and tolerance from homeowners as well as knowledgeable, responsible and committed volunteers. Unfortunately, many homeowners are unwilling to endure the gradual process necessary to control and reduce the feral cat population. There are also well-meaning cat rescuers who are unwilling to take the time to maintain the colonies after the cats have been fixed and released. As with so many animal issues, emotions run high. Government officials tend to be ignorant of the issues and are thus unable to assist in resolving ongoing neighborhood disputes about ferals.

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the rat problem was literally eliminated. The merchants are now thrilled with the ferals.

Melya also solved a major rat problem in several LAPD police stations by setting up feral cat feeding stations outside buildings where rats were literally running across the desks of working police detectives. Although skeptical at first, the police soon reported the rat problem was completely eliminated. Now the police look at the ferals as partners in fighting crime.

Other feral cat rescuers nationwide have used innovative programs like this to convince people and homeowners that they can happily co-exist with feral cats. Ironically, however, while the City of Los Angeles “tolerates” the TNR programs of feral rescue groups like Voice for the Animals, current laws do not condone TNR, which means many rescuers are implementing it illegally. Most urban communities still limit the number of animals a person can care for, and criminalize anyone who looks after strays, including ferals.

Finding a happy medium

In most urban settings in the U.S. and Canada, in fact, there has been no resolution to the feral cat issue. Rescuers operate outside the law, and frustrated homeowners complain and sometimes even resort to poisoning and other inhumane methods to eliminate local ferals. A town in the state of Washington just passed a law that gives anyone with a hunting license permission to shoot any outdoor cat they believe is feral. Although most of the country was shocked and fiercely opposed to this law, the courts have allowed it to stand.

Melya Kaplan, the founder of Voice for the Animals, an L.A-based rescue group, has developed an extremely innovative program that successfully integrates feral cats with neighborhoods while providing a valuable service to the community. She sought and received permission to maintain feeding stations for feral cats in the famous wholesale flower mart area of downtown L.A, which had suffered a horrible rat problem for more than a century.

The best efforts of pest control and merchants to kill or discourage the rats had always met with failure, and business was failing. Ironically, the flower merchants were at the same time using poison to try and kill off the feral cats. Through gentle and informed persuasion, Melya got permission to set up feral cat feeding stations throughout the mart, but in areas away from crowds. To everyone’s amazement, for the first time in 100 years,

Is there a compromise that can satisfy residents while humanely managing feral cat colonies? I think the answer lies in the positive examples I see in L.A. and other cities where feral cats rescuers not only use their animal skills and expertise but also their people skills to explain to local officials and the community why TNR works and how knowledgeable rescue groups can make the process more tolerable for residents. Examples including teaching people to keep their garbage cans covered, securing all accesses to the house and foundation, not leaving cat or dog food outside, using natural repellants like a mild solution of Tabasco sauce, chili pepper and water sprayed on plants and boundaries (never spray directly on an animal!), and reminding people that the rat population (which most every urban center has) can be dramatically reduced by a properly-run TNR program. Local officials must also be

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legal beagle convinced to write laws that legalize responsible TNR. By doing this, we can humanely reduce the population of these unfortunate feline outcasts while preserving the quality of life for nearby human communities. Most importantly of all perhaps, we’ll be sending a message to our young people that problems can be solved through compassion and compromise, rather than confrontation and violence.

For more information about feral cats and community solutions, visit Voice for the Animals at www.VFTAFoundation.org and Alley Cat Allies at www.alleycat.org.

Bob Ferber has been a Los Angeles prosecutor for 24 years, and has recently begun focusing exclusively on animal abuse and neglect cases. fosters

He also rescues and “unadoptable” animals and runs

an educational program that teaches schoolchildren reverence for all life.

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heal

Flower essences 101 –

how they help heal our animals Photo: Purusha Ananda © 2005

by Sharon Callahan

L

Lily, a little dachshund from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, had already been through two courses of antibiotics for a urinary tract infection when she was adopted by Estelle Gartenlaub. “I took her home to give her some extra TLC, yet the infection persisted,” says Estelle. “Sharon Callahan suggested trying a combination of flower essences.” Estelle asked Best Friends veterinarian Dr. Allen whether he thought this approach would harm or help. “‘It certainly can’t do any harm,’ he told me, ‘and you never know what Mother Nature has up her sleeve.’”

He was right. After a week, Lily had totally recovered and has never had a recurrence. When Estelle asked Dr. Allen how flower essences work, he told her, “It’s actually the same principle as how most drugs were originally made. With drugs, you start off with the plant itself and then extract the specific chemical that seems to provide the cure or relief. In the case of flower essences, the principle is that you’re extracting an energy, an intangible essence.”

Over 30 years ago, a two-year-old elephant named Barbara was captured and taken from her home in the wilds of Southeast Asia. Shipped to America, she spent over a decade traveling in circuses. At 14, she was retired to a breeding facility where she became depressed and emaciated.

In 1996, Barbara’s plight came to the attention of Carol Buckley, who relocated her to The Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. Barbara was started on a series of flower essences as part of her healing program. After the first series, selected to help her release deep grief and hopelessness, Carol reported that Barbara was “effervescent” and “had a twinkle in her animal wellness

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eye almost all the time.” After the second round of essences, Barbara became openly receptive to another resident elephant named Jenny, and developed a friendship with one of the sanctuary dogs. She also began to relax and let Carol touch her all over.

Cat's Ear

Self Heal

As far as anyone knew, Barbara had never “spoken” as healthy elephants do. It was thought her larynx had been damaged during her capture.

But one day, she began to purr and rumble, and later surprised everyone by trumpeting! It seemed she had been silenced all those years by grief. Carol said that Barbara’s progress was “phenomenal.”

She became a perfect example of how, with the power of love and the power of flowers, we can rise above the most tragic circumstances.

What are flower essences?

Phantom Orchid

Star Flowers

Flower essences are a form of vibrational medicine.

Vibration is a synonym for frequency; different frequencies of energy reflect varying rates of vibration. Matter and energy are two different manifestations of the same primary energetic substance of which everything in the universe is made, including our physical and subtle bodies (the subtle energy body that exists in the higher frequency range beyond the physical). The subtle body simply vibrates at a faster rate. It is believed that disease manifests in the physical body only after energy flow disturbances have already become crystallized in the subtle body.

One of the best ways to alter dysfunctional patterns in the subtle body is to administer therapeutic doses of frequency-specific subtle energy in the form of vibrational medicine, such as flower essences.

How are they made?

Photos: Purusha Ananda © 2005

Sticky Cinque

Shooting Star

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Flowers from a specific plant (flowers being the highest state of a plant’s expression), are picked at the peak of their bloom. They’re floated on the surface of a small bowl of spring water which is left in the sunlight near its parent plant for approximately three hours. As the sunlight falls on the flowers, it transfers their vibrational essence to the water by imprinting the energy pattern of the individual plant on the water molecules. The flowers are later removed and the water preserved for future use.

How do flower essences work?

Flower essences heal by introducing the vibration of their unique trait, personality or character into the energy body. A properly prescribed essence helps an individual’s personality vibrate more closely in harmony with their soul. Flower essences work deeply with the inner being of the person or animal taking them, breaking through limitations and blocks so that undeveloped potential can manifest. Since people and their animal companions often mirror personality traits and weaknesses, taking essences with your animal will result in the most powerful transformations.

Physical healing also often occurs.

Are they a new healing modality?

Flower essence remedies have been known for centuries, but in modern time are most closely associated with the work of early 20th century English physician Dr. Edward Bach. Dr. Bach was a true modern mystic. He perceived with remarkable insight that various emotional and personality factors predispose us to illness. He believed that the dysfunctional energetic patterns within the subtle body could be released with help from the essences of appropriate flowers.

Dr. Bach would take dawn walks in the English countryside, tasting dew from the petals of various flowers and noting the changes in his subtle and physical body. He developed the Bach Flower Remedies and spurred an interest in the healing power of flowers.

Are flower essences used

and approved by veterinarians?

Flower essences are becoming widely used by veterinarians around the world. “We routinely prescribe flower essences as a part of our wellness program for the dogs and cats brought to our clinic,” says Dr. Bob Goldstein, VMD. “Conventional medicine often recommends a tranquilizer, powerful medicine that dulls and deadens the emotions. In our clinic, we have developed an increased awareness of the emotional and spiritual needs of our patients and have witnessed first hand how flower essences address these needs safely and effectively.” continued on pg. 84

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Can flower

essences be harmful?

At a fundamental level, flower essences represent only positive qualities and virtues such as faith, hope, unconditional love, release, acceptance and attunement to the Divine. They have either a positive effect or none, and thus are completely safe, compatible and supportive of all other modalities.

Animals are naturally attuned to the vibration of flowers

Flower essences that helped Lily

Bog orchid — releases deep trauma

Gooseberry — joy

Heart's ease — soothes the heart and emotions Evening primrose — heals painful early emotioins

questioning and doubting and ruminating.

They naturally and easily rise to the highest vibration presented to them.

Observing my animal companions over time, I have become profoundly aware of the intimate relationship of animals and flowers. Small animals are face to face with many flowers, and have a natural rapport with them. Try getting down at cat’s-eye level and observing your garden. This will give you a taste of their perspective.

Why animals

need flower essences

In the wild, animals naturally attune to Water hemlock— When confined to artificial environments, herbs and flowers because of their spiritual rises above the trials and animals lose their natural attunement to the and healing properties. They will seek out tribulations of daily life healing properties of plants. As guardians, and eat these medicinal herbs and flowers, it becomes our responsibility to use herbs or simply rest among them to absorb their White lily — and flower essences to make up for what energy. In the woods near my home, I innocence, purity and new civilization has taken away. have often observed deer bedded down beginnings in a glade of Shasta lily or thimbleberry.

A wide range of common physical disorders, The vibrational “signature” of Shasta lily as well as mental and emotional disturbances is physical, emotional and spiritual purity, brought on by grief, loneliness, abandonment, trauma while thimbleberry offers a vibration of protection and safety. and negativity, can be eased and often eliminated with As another example, when my cat Shoji grieved for me during appropriately chosen flower essences. In addition, the a long absence, he could be found every afternoon in a far tendency of companion animals to absorb the emotions of corner of the yard, napping under a bleeding heart. The the humans they live with can be greatly relieved by flower signature, or vibration, of a flower is often evident in its essences. Animals suffer acutely from situations they can’t “folk” name: bleeding heart, forget-me-not, angel’s trumpet, understand, such as human relationship difficulties, job love-lies-bleeding, self-heal, passion flower, heart’s ease, worries and financial stress. dream weaver, and Christ’s thorn.

Animals respond more quickly to the vibration of flowers than adult humans do, and often with greater and more immediate results. That’s because animals are closer to flowers both physically and energetically, and they don’t have a complex mental overlay that gets in the way by

Essences are available to assist at every stage of an animal’s development: birth and bonding, spaying and neutering, training, aging and the transition from this life. Flower essences are also invaluable during times of uncertainty, such as traveling, moving, adjusting to other animals or grieving the loss of a companion. Animals that come from abusive or neglectful backgrounds often need assistance to clear negative past patterning. With the use of appropriate essences, memories of deep despair can be relieved and the animal’s life can move forward in joy.

Animals have souls, emotions and feelings that affect their health and well being, just as we do, and sensitively chosen essences can produce profound and lasting changes in the animal’s physical state and behavior.

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These changes are significant, because they cannot be attributed to the placebo effect so often sited by skeptics.

Encouraging the

soul growth of animals Animals are evolving toward enlightenment just as we are, and flower essences encourage them along their path. Even after balance is achieved and behavioral challenges addressed, flower essences provide an invaluable and ongoing addition to an animal’s life process. Flower essences are one of the most intimate gifts you can give your beloved animal.

Music of the spheres The effects of flower essences can be compared to hearing a particularly moving piece of music. The sound waves evoke feelings in the soul similar to the feelings that arose in the composer’s soul. This is the principle of resonance. Extraordinary music such as Bach’s “B Minor Mass”, Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”, or Vaughn Williams’ “Lark Ascending” are known to have an uplifting and healing effect on the emotions and soul. This effect is experienced across cultural and species boundaries.

In a similar way, the unique life force pattern of each flower, when taken as an essence, awakens particular qualities in the soul. These qualities have the power to re-harmonize negativity or disease. When we take a flower essence or offer an essence to an animal, we are, in effect, flooding our being or the being of the animal with the music of the Divine.

Sharon Callahan is a world-renowned animal communicator and the creator of

Anaflora Flower Essences. She is also the author of Healing Animals Naturally with Flower Essences and Intuitive Listening.Visit her website at anaflora.com

Flower essences that helped Barbara

Bleeding heart — repairs broken heart

Photo: Tami & Cameron Hendrix of High Point, North Carolina

Helebore — movement from darkness to light Phantom orchid — dispels "ghosts" from the past

Pink milkweed — recovery from lack of nurturing

Shasta star flower— re-connects to the healing power of nature animal wellness

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On the right foot -

taking care of your horse’s hoofs

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animal wellness

Photo: Cindy Pauliuk

There’s an old nugget of wisdom that says, “Look after your feet, and they’ll look after you.” It’s as true of horses as it is of humans. In fact, proper hoof care is vital to the health of your equine friend, as holistic hoof care expert Lisa Simons Lancaster demonstrates in her book The Sound Hoof – Horse Health from the Ground Up, published in 2004 by Tallgrass Publishers, LLC. The following abridged excerpt discusses some of the important points of good hoof care management.

Sound management

by Lisa Simons Lancaster

Sound hoof care management goes a long way toward maintaining a sound horse. Paying attention to the “little” day-to-day things can make all the difference to your horse’s comfort and health. Choosing your team, keeping records, having patience, and assuring safety for your and your horse are essential for both the well-being and longevity of the equine-human partnership.

Sound management means a sound hoof.

Support team The support network includes your equine health care practitioners because they will naturally encourage and assist you regarding hoof care decisions. The farrier and veterinarian are core members of the team.

For many, the most significant support network will come from other horse people like yourself who have been through the experience of taking charge of their own horse’s hoof health.

Selecting a farrier For most horse people, doing their own hoof care is neither practical nor desirable, so hiring a professional is the normal course of action. Even those who do some of their own hoof care need a professional occasionally.

Selecting the right professional for your horse’s needs is not easy. You have probably read articles in popular horse publications on selecting a farrier. They are full of sensible advice: find someone trained, qualified, professional, well-mannered and so on. They are laudable traits, but may not be sufficient credentials to meet your horse’s needs.

Using nippers for trimming should only be done by a professional farrier.

You do not need to know all that the experts know in order to evaluate them. What you need to know is how to distinguish a genuinely knowledgeable, capable person from one who may be under-qualified to work on your horse.

Having successfully completed a formal training program may be a good criterion for selecting a farrier. Yet plenty of excellent farriers learned the trade from apprenticeship, never attending a school or becoming certified. Farriers graduating from the same shoeing school may not be like-minded, or have the same caliber of professionalism. Having many years of experience is good, although there are farriers with decades on the job who have never learned how to balance a foot. You need to know something about the quality and level of that experience and how it has shaped the approach that particular farrier takes in his work.

Doing your own trimming You may want to learn how to rasp sound feet and maintain balance.

Some farriers are happy to teach you trim basics. There are farriers who

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specialize in conducting clinics to teach basic trimming.

Using a knife or nippers properly requires considerable experience and should be done only by a farrier. Re-establishing balance, particularly in a diseased foot, is complicated and should be done only by a farrier as well. If your horse has sound, balanced feet, you can maintain them just by rasping.

With proper training from a qualified hoof care professional, this is a safe and effective way to maintain hoof balance between farrier visits.

Safety Hoof care is physically hard. You may be tempted to sit on a chair or stool while trimming, but it is poor practice, as the chances of being hurt are greatly increased. You can buy stands with cradles for holding the hoof. These offer a relatively safe alternative to the traditional farrier stance provided you have a well-trained horse. The horse’s comfort is essential. A comfortable horse is safer. Do not put yourself or your horse at risk in the interests of your own comfort. If you cannot find a way to stand up and trim your horse’s feet, you need to hire a professional.

Record keeping Good records will provide you with an answer to one of the most common questions a veterinarian or farrier asks: “How long has this been like this?” If you inspect your horse closely on a daily basis, you can determine when new symptoms appear. It is so common for a horse to have “mild” symptoms such as slight limping, leg swelling, etc. that most people do not track them. If the horse ever needs veterinary attention, these previously mild insults might be important history for you to relate to the practitioner.

Scheduling Each horse is an individual and scheduling hoof care will be influenced by a horse’s particular needs. The reality of the farrier industry is that in order to schedule efficiently for business purposes, farriers normally pick a particular interval that works well for the average horse. Sometimes the needs are shaped by the rider, trainer, or farrier scheduling preferences rather than by consideration of the horse’s hoof health. The industry recommends hoof care on a five to eight week schedule. This would seem to be a good compromise for everyone. Within this five to eight week schedule, farriers can have a large client base, people are used to paying for hoof care on this schedule, and horses appear to do well with this arrangement.

Your horse’s health is in your hands At first it may be intimidating to be the leader of your horse’s hoof care team.

Know that you have the support of professional equine healthcare providers.

You also have a valuable resource in the social network surrounding horse care. Turn to your friends who are grappling with similar issues regarding the best methods of solving problems. After you have gathered information from your support team and reviewed all your records, trust yourself and have the courage to do whatever is needed to keep your horse sound.

Your full participation in meeting your horse’s hoof care needs is essential for whole horse wellness.

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animal communication

Reiki is a gateway to

animal communication

by Elizabeth Fulton

A

s animal communication becomes more widely known and accepted within our culture, a growing number of people are interested in learning how they can talk to their four-footed companions. One effective way to open the intuitive channels necessary for animal communication is through the ancient healing art of Reiki. Like acupuncture, homeopathy, Qi Gong and flower essences, Reiki is part of the emerging field of energy healing, an ancient practice that is being rediscovered for use in modern times. If you look into the backgrounds of many professional animal communicators, you will often find they are also Reiki practitioners, and the two skills are frequently practiced hand in hand.

The following story describes my introduction to animal communication through my Reiki practice. At the time, I had been healing animals with Reiki for about a year, but this was the first time I was aware that I was communicating easily and naturally with a member of another species.

A doe at the door Early one morning, my husband burst into the bedroom, astonished and upset. He said that each time he tried to take our dog out for a walk, he was charged by a doe outside our front door. Unbelieving, I went to the window and looked out.

Indeed, there was a very agitatedlooking doe standing just outside the door, eyes wide, nostrils flaring, breathing rapidly.

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animal communication As I looked at her, the word “baby” formed in my mind.

At first I thought she was pregnant and about to give birth.

I told her it was all right, that no one would hurt or disturb her, and that she was safe. As I spoke, she visibly relaxed, and the thought that the baby had already been born came into my mind, with a very blurry image of a small, curled-up being. I looked around our yard and saw a fawn, still covered with amniotic fluid, lying curled up in the wood chips a short distance away. I realized that these ideas and images had come from the doe, and was incredibly excited by this brief exchange with such a glorious creature. We left the doe and her fawn undisturbed, and my husband and our dog left by the back door.

The next morning, I ventured outside to see if I could have another encounter with the doe. I roamed the area near our house, sometimes calling out softly to the doe, sometimes calling her internally. After a while I gave up, but as I turned abruptly back onto the sidewalk, I almost knocked the doe over. She had heard me and was standing right behind me!

We gave each other a tremendous scare, and she leaped to the other side of the street. We stood looking at each other for a long time. No words or images passed between us, but a gentle, vibrant energy connected us and feelings of love passed back and forth along this connection. I felt that both of us were re-evaluating our ideas about inter-species relationships, and a bond was being forged between us.

What is Reiki?

Deepen your intuitive communication with Reiki Animal communication, or telepathic communication, can also be described as deepened intuition. All of us have intuitive capabilities, and these can be deepened and expanded to become telepathic communication. Two of the biggest obstacles many people face when developing their telepathic skills are learning to access the energetic or intuitive “frequency” of animal communication, and putting aside their preconceptions about animals so they can “hear” what the animals have to say. People who meditate are already able to enter the quiet inner state where animal communication can take place. For others, Reiki training and practice is an effective way to begin to access that inner space. For many Reiki practitioners, finding the “frequency” at which animals communicate evolves as an integral part of giving treatments.

The Reiki practitioner is naturally drawn inward as part of the treatment, and her mind quiets in a way similar to meditation.

By letting her mind remain still and unattached, the practitioner allows the animals the space and opportunity to be heard.

What the practitioner hears will be different for each animal since, like people, they each have an individual communication style. Some communicate more often through visual images while others use feelings, sensations, thoughts, or ideas. Many communications will combine several of these aspects.

The word “Reiki” (pronounced Ray-key) is Japanese and is usually translated as “universal life energy.” It is a gentle yet powerful energy healing method that treats the whole individual, not just the symptoms of a disease. The practitioner acts as a conduit for the healing energy of the universe to flow through her hands to the animal or human client, causing a shift towards health at the deepest levels. It restores balance and harmony to the patient’s entire being: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Reiki is also a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.

Until recently, Reiki healing was available only to humans, but increasing numbers of practitioners are establishing practices devoted exclusively to animals.

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In addition to accessing a quiet inner space, the successful use of both Reiki and animal communication involves learning a new “language” of energy. In the process of learning and using Reiki, people begin to feel subtle physical sensations of energy in their hands or bodies and then to perceive subtle phenomena on other levels as well. They find that visual images, feelings

animal communication and thoughts arise in their consciousness during a Reiki treatment, and gradually they understand that these images, feelings and thoughts often are not their own but come from the being they are treating. If people develop this awareness, it can become full-fledged telepathic communication.

My relationship with the doe has grown and deepened over time and has led to relationships with other deer in the area.

They have become my friends and guides in developing my intuitive communication skills and in deepening my understanding of animals and healing. Both the deer and other animals have demonstrated to me again and again that the assumptions we make about them are erroneous, and that animals are far more similar to us than most of us think.

feeling and communicating, they are freed to share with us.

Communicating intimately with animals is immensely rewarding and exciting. Their insights reveal a beauty, depth and generosity far beyond what most humans are conditioned to believe is possible. People who learn to use Reiki with animals find that many animals that are right for their unique paths come forward to guide them. Through learning and practicing Reiki, your intuition and sensitivity to subtle, energetic phenomena can be heightened and refined, along with your ability to rest inwardly so the voices of animals can be heard.

Reiki and animal communication are natural allies, each contributing to the other to bring deep healing and to strengthen the bond between animals and humans.

The rewards of animal communication The culture of animals differs from ours, and their communication is more exclusively telepathic. But, in so many ways, their intelligence, emotions, and spiritual lives are similar to our own. If we put aside our preconceptions about the intelligence of animals and what they are capable of

Elizabeth Fulton is a Reiki master and professional animal communicator. She offers a combination of Reiki healing, animal communication, and flower essences to all species of animals and their human companions, and teaches people how to heal animals with Reiki. She can be reached through the Animal Healing Institute at info@HealingForAnimals.com.

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what’s gnu?

L.A. now has animal cruelty task force

In a ground-breaking move, the Los Angeles City Council recently approved by an overwhelming majority its first animal cruelty task force. The force is a joint operation between the L.A. Police Department (LAPD), Animal Services and the office of Robert Ferber, Supervising Attorney for the L.A. City Attorney Animal Protection Unit.

“We’ll have two LAPD detectives and five animal control officers doing nothing but animal cruelty,” says Robert. “It’s a major leap forward for L.A. And maybe best of all, both LAPD Chief Bratton and the City Council called for the task force to grow and get more resources in the future.”

It’s only natural

Thanks to companies like Only Natural Pet Store, it’s getting easier to care for your dog or cat safely and naturally. Among the company’s newly-introduced products are the All-in-One Flea Remedy, a toxin-free, odorless powder that you sprinkle on fur, floors and furniture to dehydrate and kill fleas; a range of herbal remedies for everything from arthritis to skin problems; and the Super Daily Multi-Vitamin, a tasty, chewable tablet that delivers a delicate balance of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and EFAs. www.onlynaturalpet.com

Just ducky

Feeding alternative proteins is a good way to keep Fido’s diet varied and healthy. Breeder’s Choice Pet Foods’ new allergen-free formula for adult dogs, Pinnacle Canine Duck & Potato, combines fresh duck and potatoes along with oatmeal, toasted oats and quinoa for a complete mix of proteins, essential amino acids and complex carbohydrates. The food also contains EFAs in the form of canola and grapeseed oil, as well as chelated vitamins, probiotics and the antioxidants vitamins C and E for a wholesome, well-rounded diet. www.breeders-choice.com

Talk to the animals

If you’re like most animal lovers, you probably often wish you could have a conversation with your dog or cat. Animal Communication: Making the Connection is a CD ROM/DVD set that can help you learn how to commune with your companion. Created by professional animal communicator Lauren McCall, the program contains 17 video lessons and exercises designed to help you discover your innate ability to telepathically talk to your four-footed friend. www.IntegratedAnimal.com

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Photo: Tony Chang

“How could anyone?”

If you’re one of the growing number of people who are against animal testing, you can now wear a bracelet that proudly communicates your views.

Urban Decay Cosmetics recently teamed up with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to launch a special anti-cruelty campaign. The nine-year-old cosmetics company, founded by animal protection activist Sandy Lerner, has created a hip bracelet that sports a paw print motif along with the company’s motto: “How could anyone?” All the proceeds from sales of the bracelet will be donated to the HSUS. www.UrbanDecay.com Nicollette Sheridan signs her Urban Decay bracelet at the 19th Genesis Awards.

Gas station safety

Self-service stations may be convenient, but they carry a safety risk that everyone, including those who travel with their animals, should be aware of. Statistics have revealed that 150 fires have been started by static electricity generated by people getting in and out of their vehicles while filling the tank. When loading petrol, Shell advises remaining outside your vehicle throughout. They also recommend closing the car door and touching the metal part of the bodywork before handling the petrol pump pistol – this way, the static electricity in your body will be discharged on the metal and not the pistol.

Help for hedgehogs

An organization dedicated solely to hedgehogs? It’s true. Recently founded

by Sophie Hannan and Michele Gillard, the Canadian Hedgehog Association was established to help educate people about the correct care of these complex little animals. Both women, who each have a “herd of hedgehogs” of their own – many of which were rescued from pet stores – agreed that there was a need to help people better understand the animals through proper care and responsible breeding. The association also has a rescue program and an online forum. www.canadianhedgehogassociation.com

Sojos adds to its family

Along with its existing line of natural dog and cat food mixes, treats and supplements, Sojourner Farms has introduced two new products with its recent purchase of the Monzie’s Organic Pet Food Company.

Monzie’s Organic Muesli for Dogs is a pre-mix that you add to fresh meat, water and vegetables for a wholesome, healthy meal, while Monzie’s Organic Cookies for Dogs are wheat-free, corn-free biscuits shaped like hearts to reflect the care and quality ingredients that go into making these tasty, natural treats. www.sojos.com

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animal passages

B

Back in 1987, I was asked by some very dear friends to give a one-year-old shih tzu a home. At the time, I had no idea the impact Rocky would have on my life, but as soon as I learned he would be put to sleep for not having a home, there was no question in my heart.

I had to adopt him.

It was love at first sight. When I picked Rocky up, he put his head on my shoulder and placed his paws around my neck as if giving me a hug. He was dirty and badly in need of a haircut, but his eyes said it all.

It was meant to be. At the time, I never dreamed how much Rocky would come to mean to me.

Rocky’s gift of love and support Later that year, I learned I was going to have my first child. In the seventh month of my pregnancy, however, I started having complications. The baby wanted to come earlier than planned, and the doctor ordered complete bed rest to prevent this from happening.

Rocky was with me every step of the way. Whenever I got frustrated or lonely, he would constantly lick me and look into my eyes, reminding me that I was not alone. I sensed he was trying to tell me everything would be fine. He was right. In March of 1988, I gave birth to a wonderful baby girl.

How Rocky’s love helped me through rocky times

by Sue London

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But my troubles were far from over. I began to quickly lose a lot of weight and was soon diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I spent hours at a time in the washroom, but once again, Rocky was there for me.

He would scurry ahead of me before I shut the door and sit and lick my legs, crying as he sensed the pain I felt. Having him there beside me was so comforting and therapeutic.

Whenever I experienced the severe pain that can accompany Crohn’s Disease, Rocky moved towards me and breathed heavily into my ear. It was as if he wanted me to focus on his breathing and not my pain.

He taught me that by also breathing deeply, I could handle the pain better.

Because of the Crohn’s disease, my second pregnancy was considered high-risk, and I spent approximately two months in hospital fighting to stay alive. I had a terrible case of morning sickness and my weight fell to

animal passages 80 pounds. At the time, pets were not allowed in hospitals, so poor Rocky would sit by the door at home, crying and waiting for my return.

One day, my family brought me a wonderful surprise. They told me that to in order to see the surprise, I had to get out of bed. I found the strength to walk down the hall and out onto the patio. There was my furry friend wagging his tail! I instantly started crying – it was so wonderful to see him. Not long after Rocky’s visit, I recovered and was on my way home again. Months later, I delivered another beautiful, healthy baby girl. The strength, courage, and determination Rocky gave me were priceless.

When my marriage ended three years later, this dog became my rock. As always, when things became very stressful, Rocky was right there, licking me and giving me love. It was his way of saying all would be okay. Again, he was right.

The power of pet therapy Many people have said to me, “You are going through all this for a reason.” At the time I didn’t believe them, but now I can see it. Everything in life happens for a reason.

In my own life, I was given a dog named Rocky to get me through some very difficult days. He was an expert in pet therapy, the healing power of animals. He and all other animals – from dogs and cats to rabbits, horses, chickens, donkeys, llamas, birds and pot-bellied pigs – have the power to comfort us with unconditional love, to ease pain, and to give us courage and strength.

On December 3, 2001, Rocky died peacefully in my arms.

We still miss him so much, but I thank God for all the time I had with my magnificent friend. I feel he knows I will be okay without him. Just before he passed on, a wonderful new man came into my life to take his place. I also have a great career as an author and professional speaker. Rocky’s memory will live with me eternally.

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How to introduce a new cat Most cat lovers would agree it’s hard to stop at just one.

Trouble is, it can be tricky introducing an adult cat to a household where one or more cats already rule the roost. Unlike dogs, felines aren’t pack animals and are more difficult to integrate peaceably. Things may look placid on the surface, but you may find yourself dealing with “out of box” soiling and other territorial behaviors.

If you’re adopting or rescuing an adult cat to add to your “clutter” (a term sometimes used to refer to a group of felines), follow these tips and Photo: Debra Casey

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tricks for an easier transition.

to the “clutter” by: Marnie Astley

Isolate the newcomer from the other cats for a couple of weeks. This not only prevents aggressive attacks, but also helps protect your existing kitties from illness or parasites. Provide separate litter box scoops, pans and feeding bowls.

room, or by playing with them with a cat toy of some sort. “Cat Dancers” are excellent for this purpose. A Cat Dancer is an interactive cat toy consisting of a piece of spring wire with some little paper rolls or feathers on the end.

Try scent exchange strategies. After spending time with the new cat, remove your shirt or sweater and let the other cats investigate the newcomer’s smell.

Because the sweater also smells of you, they may be inclined to accept the new cat more readily. Bedding exchange also works. If you are sure the new cat is healthy, allow the others to investigate him under the closed door. They can smell each other, touch paws, and get to know one another without any fights. This also gives the new cat time to settle into his new surroundings without having to defend himself against the dominant cat in the home.

Feline hierarchy is determined by height. Your dominant cat should have access to a high spot in the room so he is assured of his status. Multishelved cat trees and condos make wonderful roosts for this purpose.

After a week, exchange sites. Let the new cat investigate the rest of the house while the resident cats check out his room.

Adding a few drops of Bach’s Rescue Remedy to everyone’s water bowl will help keep things calm.

There is also a product called Feliway which may help temporarily, although I don’t recommend it for long term use as it contains synthetic fragrance.

When you first allow all the cats together, distract them by feeding them in different areas of the

Provide an adequate “scratcher” that’s at least three feet high. Cats leave each other visual as well as scent messages (from glands on their paws) by scratching.

Don’t leave the cats alone together until you are sure they are ready to get along. It’s so much easier to prevent a problem in the first place than to try and remedy the situation after warfare begins.

If by chance territorial behaviour has begun already, a daily separation period of up to 12 hours works well, along with a community play time when you are around to supervise. For example, with cats that may feel threatened by the new addition, allowing the newcomer to sleep in your bedroom or another room at night gives them a break from one another.

Some cats may be intimidated by the others at feeding

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time. Watch to make sure they eat peaceably, or provide a crate or other type of safe haven for the timid cat.

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Be sure to provide enough litter boxes for everyone. Cats who are fastidious about their toilet may take exception to a new feline using “their” box. This can trigger territorial marking.

Last but not least, take your time. Patience will pay off in the end.

Many people assume that introducing a new cat to an existing feline tribe will inevitably lead to at least some spitting, scratching and squabbling, but it doesn’t have to be that way. By taking these suggestions into consideration, while understanding and respecting each cat’s natural territorial instincts, you can help pave the way for a smooth integration and a happy and harmonious “clutter” of kitties. graphite drawing

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She lives and Ontario.

gardens with

Yin &Yang of puppy love

The

by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

P

Puppies are amazing creatures. When they play, they play with every ounce of their little beings. When they sleep they are “down-for-the-count.” They can chew their way through your favorite shoes and your daughter’s best teddy bear – but we love them anyway. We look at our beloved puppy’s antics and say to ourselves, “He’s a puppy.”

Young animals are supposed to be full of life, tearing through the house and dashing around the back yard.

Their bones, muscles, and neurological connections are growing by the minute.

They also need lots of sleep as well as nourishing, real food. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the high energy and impetus behind the exponential growth of a puppy are considered Yang. The rest, nutrients and essence used to make that growth possible is considered Yin. The essential concept underlying TCM is that health is based on a dynamic balance between Yin and Yang. You might ask how a puppy could be healthy if he’s bounding from one extreme to the other? The reason is that puppies are supposed to be out of balance at different times

because they are in such a high growth period. There are times they just have to be very Yang, and then they balance it by being very Yin. Their small growing bodies have their own form of balance and that’s the way it needs to be.

You can do an acupressure session called “Puppy Pinches” that will support and enhance whatever is going on in your puppy’s body at the time. Give it a try during an evening when your pup has given his all and is ready to be calm.

Acupressure has a way of creating a very special bond between you and your puppy.

It could be called “puppy love.”

Puppy pinches 1.

Pick a time when your puppy is relatively calm and find a location with few distractions. Take three long breaths in and out, then focus for a minute or two on your adoration of this young animal and how you want to contribute to his healthy growth.

2.

Sit on the floor behind your puppy, facing his back. Starting just behind or below his shoulder blades on each side of the spine, use your thumb and index fingers on both hands to very gently pinch animal wellness

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his skin. Then move your hand approximately one inch (about half an inch for very small dogs) in the direction of his tail and repeat the gentle pinching. Continue to move your hands down one inch at a time, softly pinching the skin as you go, until you reach the base of his tail.

3. Start again, just below the puppy’s scapula, and repeat the puppy pinches on each side of his spine and down to his tail two more times.

4. When

you have completed three cycles of gentle pinches, go back to below his scapula, with your fingers together and flat, and sweep down the puppy’s back with one hand on each side of his spine, similar to how you would brush out the wrinkles on your bed cover to make it tidy and smooth. Repeat this sweeping motion three times.

5. Now snuggle with your puppy and tell him how much you love him.

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Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the authors of The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide To Canine Acupressure, Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure and Equine Acupressure: A Working Manual. They own Tallgrass Publishers, which offers Meridian Charts for dogs, cats and horses, as well as Introducing Equine Acupressure, a 50-minute training video. They also provide training courses worldwide. For further information visit www.animalacupressure.com, email acupressure4all@earthlink.net or call 888-841-7211.

book reviews Title: Pet Loss and Children Author: Cheri Barton Ross Your child can’t remember what life was like without Rover, yet now it’s time for her to say goodbye to him. How do you explain what death is, and how do you help her cope with her grief? Pet Loss and Children: Establishing a Healthy Foundation provides answers. By showing you how to guide your child through the loss of a pet, author Cheri Barton Ross helps your youngster develop a healthy understanding and acceptance of death.

The book includes sections on everything from how children assimilate loss to the issue of euthanasia. It looks at different types of loss, from accidents to illness to having to give up an animal, and also discusses how burial ceremonies can help children deal with the death of a beloved companion. There’s a chapter on different types of support and therapy, and another featuring the stories and artwork of children who have experienced pet loss.

Whether your child’s best friend is a goldfish or a golden retriever, this book will become an invaluable guide.

Title: Shock to the System Author: Catherine O'Driscoll “I became interested in canine health, as a specialization, after two of my young dogs died, then a third, and after my other dogs began to suffer from debilitating illnesses,” writers Catherine O’Driscoll. “I wanted to heal my pain, which necessitated knowing why, and then I wanted to ensure that the other dogs I shared my life with wouldn’t suffer the same fate.”

In an effort to educate herself and others on dog health care, Catherine founded Canine Health Concern and also authored several books, including What Vets Don’t Tell You About Vaccines. Her sequel to the latter, Shock to the System, looks at a range of factors that affect your dog’s health. The first six chapters offer an in-depth examination of over-vaccination, while subsequent sections cover drugs, food, genetics and stress.

Shock to the System stimulates you to think for yourself, to ask questions, and to examine your own beliefs about animal health care and how they shape the way you look after your canine companion. It also encourages you to make the changes you need to help your best friend towards better health

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API HEALTH Joint relief for pets

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book reviews Title: What the Dog Did Author: Emily Yoffe A confirmed cat person, author Emily Yoffe wasn’t terribly thrilled when her six-year-old daughter fell in love with a skittish homeless beagle named Sasha. Yet her experiences with her new four-footed friend, though they sometimes tried her patience and sanity, changed her life and transformed Yoffe into a dog lover.

What the Dog Did: Tales from a Formerly Reluctant Dog Owner is a hilarious account of Yoffe’s adventures with Sasha and the many other dogs she meets in her quest to learn more about man’s (and woman’s) best friend. As she struggles to transform the neurotic Sasha into a well-behaved family member, she also embarks on a range of other canine-related adventures, from studying to be a pet psychic to watching bomb-sniffing dogs at the Department of Homeland Security. Despite all the ups and downs, Yoffe is soon hooked on dogs, and ends up becoming a foster mother for other homeless beagles.

If you’re also a “reluctant” dog guardian, this light-hearted book is sure to convert you. If you already love dogs, just sit back and enjoy!

Title: Animal Dreaming Author: Scott Alexander King Many indigenous cultures around the world, including those of Australia, have long believed that the Divine speaks to us through mammals, birds, fish and even reptiles and insects, and that these creatures can become guides and totems to help us with our own lives and spiritual development. Animal Dreaming by Scott Alexander King is a fascinating book about the symbolic and spiritual language of Australian animals, from kangaroos to kookaburras.

The book opens with a discussion of the native Australian Dreamtime, and also provides instructions on how to read nature and discover and honor your own animal totems. A complete and comprehensive dictionary of Australian animals, along with an explanation of the symbolic significance of each, rounds out the book. Even if you don’t live “down under,” Animal Dreaming makes an insightful and inspiring read that will help open your eyes to the valuable spiritual gifts that nature can offer.

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Index to Animal Wellness Display & Ad Spot advertisers – Volume 7 Issue 4 Advances Vapor Technologies .............................76 AKC Canine Health Foundation ............................24 All Pets Go To Heaven ..........................................105 American Bio Sciences .........................................69 American College of Applied Science ................108 Amixx Pets ............................................................104 Amore All-Natural RAW Pet Foods .........................3 Anaflora .................................................................107 Animal Ambassador Int’l .....................................108 Animal Amulets .....................................................111 Animal Energy ......................................................104 Animal Plus LLC .....................................................42 Assisi International Animal Institute ....................20 AVJ Natural Cat ....................................................105 Barf Direct.com ......................................................85 Bark & Fitz ..............................................................22 Barkleigh Productions ...........................................61 Basti’s Foundation ................................................110 Bera Dordoni, N.D. ...............................................109 Biologic Vetnx .........................................................17 Bones Galore ..........................................................95 Bowowow & Dogma ............................................109 BRAVO! ...................................................................50 Breeder’s Choice ....................................................31 Buddhabag .............................................................38 Canine College Cruise ...........................................63 Centaur VA Animal Health ....................................75 Class Art Productions Inc./Buddy Belt ...............111 Country Pet Foods .................................................57 Crown City Inn .......................................................110 Cycles of Life ..........................................................91 D3 Pet Productions ......................................38 & 45 Dewey’s Wheelchairs For Dogs ..........................107 Dinovite Inc. ............................................................4 Diva Doggie ...........................................................100 Dog Bed Works .....................................................106 Doggie Blue Light .................................................110 Doolittles ................................................................105 Earth Friendly Products/Natumates ....................62 Earthwise Institute ...............................................108 Elec Western Medical Devices Ltd. ....................109 Elemental Acupressure .......................................107 EnLighthouse Inc. ..................................................95 Equissage ...............................................................88 Essentially Susan .................................................110 Essex Cottage Farms ............................................39 Evenger’s Dog & Cat Food ....................Back Cover Evolution Diet Pet Food Corp. .............................104 Feline Instincts ......................................................104

Flea Free ................................................................106 Flexi ..........................................................................13 Forever My Pet ......................................................111 Four Paws Sleeping .............................................107 Foxdown ................................................................109 Fresh Air Purifier ....................................................61 From the Heart Baskets ......................................105 Furry Angel Pet Products ....................................109 Gail M Jewell DVM Ltd. .......................................109 Grandma Lucy’s ......................................................13 Great Life Performance Pet Products ..................20 Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. ....................................19 Handicapped Pets.com .........................................40 Happy Tails Animal Rescue ................................107 Healthy Paws Pet Nutrition Centre .....................105 Healthy Pet Systems ....................................10 & 30 Herbie’s Herb ........................................................102 Holistic Petcare by Whiskers ..............................106 HydroDog ................................................................47 If Your Horse Could Talk ......................................110 Infrared Heat & Massage for Dogs ......................65 Ingalls Art ................................................................98 Interdependant Pictures ........................................71 K9 Companions ......................................................88 Kelly Ann Ridge ....................................................110 KR Natural Pet ......................................................105 Lantern Books/Findhorn Press ...........................108 Lebalab Inc. ............................................................26 Light Unlimited .......................................................80 LoveUnleashed.com .............................................100 Maia Kincaid Pd. D. .............................................104 Mandala Riding & Awareness Center ................107 Mass Mutual/Michel Financial Group ....................9 Mellow Mutts ........................................................105 Miracles Happen ..................................................104 Mountain Meadow Botanicals ............................106 MVP Laboratories, Inc. ..........................................19 Natural Canine ......................................................106 Natural Chemistry ..................................................50 Natural Horse Magazine .......................................50 Natural Life Pet Products ......................................21 Nature of the Pet ..................................................106 Nature’s Manna ....................................................105 Nature’s Variety .............................................11 & 45 New World Library .................................................98 Nickers International, Ltd. .....................................14 Northwest Naturals ................................................25 Nutri-Vet Nutritionals ................................................5 Nutro Products, Inc. .................................................7

Only Natural Pet Store .........................................101 Optimum Choices, LLC ..........................................76 Paul’s Pet Food .......................................................15 Paw Perks ................................................................16 Pet Care Insurance ......................Inside Back Cover Pet Event Network Inc. .........................................110 Pet Futon .................................................................40 Pet Puccino .............................................................84 Pet Sitter Videos .....................................................92 Peterna ....................................................................58 Petrenz ....................................................................98 PetStep ....................................................................76 PolyMVA ..................................................................24 Precious Pets.org .................................................106 Proper Nutrition Inc. ...............................................32 Prozyme Products Inc. ................Inside Front Cover Purity Life/Modu Vet ..............................................35 Purrfectplay ...........................................................110 Rae Ramsey ..........................................................104 Red Jellyfish.com ...................................................80 Sand Castle Ent. ...................................................108 Shining Spirits ......................................................109 Simply Put .............................................................111 SitStay.com .................................................93 & 105 Sittin’ Pretty Cat Products ...................................111 Sleepy Hole-O Beds ..............................................107 Sojourner Farms Pet Products .............................36 Solo Pet Doors ......................................................102 Spoil Your Horse.com ............................................71 Symco (Symbiotics) ..............................................37 Tail Blazers ............................................................105 Tail Flix ....................................................................80 Talking Pets Radio .................................................64 Tall Grass Publishers ...........................................108 The Integrated Animal .........................................108 The Invisible Gardener .........................................108 The Musical Rainbow ...........................................111 The Urban Carnivore ..............................................22 The Wholistic Pet ...................................................47 Timberwolf Organics .............................................83 Tripett ......................................................................49 Triple Pet ................................................................107 Trips with Pets ........................................................39 Uptown Poochie ....................................................106 Urban Wolf ..............................................................48 V. Pavel Ltd. ............................................................41 Whiskers Holistic Pet Products ............................54 Wholistic Animal ....................................................22 Y2K Health and Detox .........................................109 animal wellness

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animal

wellness magazine ad spots

food, treats & supplements communicators retailers — etailers health products educational products & courses

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Maia with baby Galapagos tortoise.

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• Behavior & health challenges.

• Know your pet’s wishes in transitions & passing. After passing contact.

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Maia also works with humans in regards to relationships, careers, health & the fulfillment of dreams.

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Rae Ramsey Animal Communicator • Deepen Bonds of Friendship • Resolve Behavioral Issues • Ease Transition into Death

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Shampoos • Soap Bars Soothing Spritz Sprays Mutts Special Care Products Aromatherapy Dog Beds All developed with your best friend’s health in mind.

800-830-1762 mellowmutts@yahoo.com

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retailers – etailers

For the Chic, Hip & Fun Poochies Dog Apparel, Collars, Beds, Accessories & More!

Uptown Poochie 305-788-9757

www.uptownpoochie.com

michele@uptownpoochie.com

HOLISTIC PETCARE BY WHISKERS

for all your pet’s Nutrition & Supplies

Dogs / Cats / Birds / Small Animals / Fish • Vitamins • Herbs • Supplements • Raw Food Diets • Skin Care • Allergies • Bones & Joints • Cleansers • Treats • Toys • Books • Videos • CD’s

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“Come forth into the light of things,

1800whiskers.com

Health food & treats • Supplements & Remedies Grooming Supplies • Beds • Toys • Bowls Collars & Leashes • Functional Apparel Books & Magazines • Sanitation • Gifts for Pet People

let Nature be your teacher.”

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g Shippin in le availab nd a US .

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For great products and even greater service shop: 559-455-1170

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mail@natureofthepet.com

Organic & Wildcrafted Apawthecary

Finest herbal ingredients for your animals and you at realistic prices .....................

• deodorants HERBAL •• extracts anti virals • flea remedies

Many people enjoy the comfort and health benefits of memory foam, developed for NASA for its space program.

Why shouldn’t your beloved pet? It eases pressure on their joints by molding to their body and providing much deserved comfort. We now also have pine pet beds via special email order for $100-$300.

S M L

• salves • coat spritz

www.north-west-naturals.com

Profits support animal rescue: happytailsrescue.com

Order online today!

24” x 18” x 2” 30” x 40” x 4” 36” x 42” x 4”

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also available at Barks ‘N Wags, 4140 Dundas W., Etobicoke, Ontario

health products

North West Naturals

MEMORY FOAM BEDS... comfort they deserve too!

Anaflora Flower Essence Therapy for Animals Help restore physical, emotional and spiritual balance in your animal companion. Created by animal communicator Sharon Callahan, the specialized formulas include: Return to Joy: for abuse of any kind Recovery Remedy: for physical trauma and emotional shock Tranquility: for everyday nervousness Harmony: for the introduction of a new animal or human baby Relocation: for moving stresses Aggression: for the overly aggressive dog Special Stress: for relief in stressfull situations

To order, call the Animal Store at1-866-926-1245 or visit anaflora.com

To discuss the special needs of your dog call: 877-312-2122 To meet our satisfied customers visit: www.wheelchairsfordogs.com

Explore your connection to the earth; open your awareness.

Breathing • Centering • Grounding Deepen your understanding of animal / human relationships Workshops with Olga Comeau at

Mandala Riding & Awareness Center (902) 665-2101 R.R. #2, Hampton, N.S. BOS 1L0

email: mandala@ns.sympatico.ca www.mandalariding.com

animal wellness

educational ...

“Let A Horse Be Your Teacher”

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educational products & courses

Come join us!

Tellington TTouch Training T for Companion Animals

Course and product info: 800-854-8326

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• Alleviate behavioral problems without force or fear • Improve performance and well-being of animals • Enhance human-animal bond • Establish an innovative career helping animals

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dogwhispererdvd.com • 800-955-5440 • 818-623-0512

Don’t Panic It’s Organic!

CRNI.NET every Sat. 10 am PST CRN Digital Talk Radio Andy Lopez

www.InvisibleGardener.com Invisible Gardener, P.O. Box 4311, Malibu, C A 90264

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Do aches & pains stop you or your pet from enjoying life?

• drug-free pain relief • veterinarian recommended • 2 million satisfied customers • online catalogue

• dogs • cats • horses • humans

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health and detox center

Nutrition & Massage Therapy for Dogs Nutritional Counseling – Improve Overall Health of Your Dog (& Yourself) Massage Therapy & Energy Work for– • • • • •

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Y2K Health and Detox Centre now brings you “Creature’s Pet Formulae” organic/wildcrafted herbal blends, energetically enhanced by the e-Lybra. Presently we have the following: • Joint Pain • Clarity • Cat Furball • Urinary • Parasite • Immune Support • Cough • Life Brite Developed by Dr. Deb Baker-Racine (27 years of clinical experience) Chiropractor, Homeopath, Dr. of Natural Medicine, MSc.-Nutrition and son Jamie Golledge, Master Herbalist.

Products available toll free at 1-877-402-5450 or online at:

www.y2khealthanddetox.com/petcare.html Holistic Veterinary care for all creatures!

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“... Grieve not, nor speak of me with tears, but laugh and talk of me as if I were beside you... I loved you so – ‘twas Heaven here with you.”

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healing services & products

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Pet Futon

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A special memory of your cherished pet that will last a lifetime...

Walk your pet wearing the “show-off” scarf!

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Forget stuffing all of your belongings into your pocket when you take Rex or Lucky out for a walk... Use our hands-free pocketed scarf!

Different selections to help with fear of thunder storms, being left alone, quieting kennels, obedience training, car sickness, calming anxiety and much more

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EVENTS CALENDAR July 12-August 30, 2005 – Milwaukee, W Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Limited to eight participants. Eight weeks, 7-10pm AMTIL (Animal Massage & Therapies) 847-782-1963 amtil@amtil.com • AMTIL.com

July 26, 2005 – Rancho Santa Fe, CA Pet Care Job Fair Learn about fun, exciting, and rewarding careers in the world of animal care, health, and training. Attend the first “Pet Care Job Fair” from 10am to 6pm at Helen Woodward Animal Center. Meet animal trainers, care providers, veterinarians, educators, and others who have devoted their lives to the welfare and safety of animals. Find out how you can be a part of this exciting field. Admission is free. All you need is a love of animals and a desire to learn how you can make a difference.

Make plans now to attend the “Pet Care Job Fair” at Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo Roadin 858-756-4117 www.animalcenter.org

August 6-7, 2005 – Pleasant Hill, CA Animal Communication – Basic Workshop Learn to send and receive telepathic messages directly from animals. This course will give a good foundation in animal communication.

Cathy Malkin-Currea 925-671-9208 cathy@animalmuse.com • www.animalmuse.com

September 6-October 25, 2005 – Milwaukee, WI Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class examines an evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy, along with business and ethical issues for practitioners. Limited to

Post your event online at:

20 participants. Eight weeks, 7-10pm AMTIL (Animal Massage & Therapies) 847-782-1963 amtil@amtil.com • amtil.com

September 17-18, 2005 – Lake Tahoe, CA (The Village at Squaw Valley, USA) Art Bark Fest – Animal Art, Wine & Music Bark if you Love Art! Put this on your calendar early because this is going to be one of the greatest animal themed events of the year! This one-of-a-kind festival includes over 40 fine arts booths -each artist featuring an animal theme. (Click Art Bark Fest for participating artists). Special events, food, wine and music compliment the event from 11am to 5pm with music throughout the day featuring featuring blues & rock band, Kelly’s Lot. Throughout the day enjoy live music, dine, shop for art, or just relax & enjoy the fine wines from several renowned vineyards ((Click Art Bark Fest for participating wineries). All proceeds will benefit Tahoe-Truckee Humane Society & Pet Network!

Click Art Bark Fest for Directions to Event Lori Dotterweich or Robert Burks 877-464-3364 artbarkfest@tailsbythelake.com www.thebarkfestival.com

October 2-7, 2005 – Kona, HI Animal communication with wild dolphins Swim with wild dolphins as you learn telepathic animal communication directly from them. Cost includes 5 nights accomodations, 2 dolphin excursions, animal communication classes and private sessions with Cathy.

Cathy Malkin-Currea 925-671-9208 cathy@animalmuse.com • www.animalmuse.com

October 7-9, 2005 – Grafton, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage

animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Limited to eight participants.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • amtil.com

October 14-16, 2005 – Grafton, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Limited to eight participants.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • amtil.com

November 4-6, 2005 – Grafton, WI Small Animal Anatomy This class includes an overview of all body systems and in-depth examination of the canine and feline skeletal and muscular systems, along with first aid/CPR and emergency acupressure. Limited to 20 participants.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org amtil.com

November 18-20, 2005 – Grafton, WI Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class examines an evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy, along with business and ethical issues for practitioners. Limited to 20 participants.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-592-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • amtil.com

This class is focused on learning techniques used with

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events

Putting on an animal wellness educational or charity event?

Let Animal Wellness Magazine help support your event by sending you our custom Animal Wellness EVENT KIT. Kit Includes: • Ballot box and ballots for great prizes • FREE gift subscription certificates • FREE Magazines • Posters • FREE listing in Animal Wellness Magazine and on www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Please contact us at least 90 days prior to the event to be considered.

Send your formal request to: events@animalwellnessmagazine.com 112

animal wellness

classifieds Accessories PAWSOME – Dog Collars, Leashes, Harnesses, Muzzles. Featured in movies and magazines for their exquisite style, comfort and craftsmanship.

Wholesale inquiries welcome. Tel: (707) 566-7357, website: http://www.dogcollars.net PIEDMONT PETS – Distributor of Leather Collars and Leashes, Organic Catnip, Homemade Treats and Gourmet Bones. Phone (866) 919-PETS. Please visit us at PIEDMONTPETS.COM

Animal Communicators LYNN McKENZIE, International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing. Create harmony and awareness in your relationships, restore health, improve behavior, enhance performance, resolve conflict, connect with animals that have crossed over. Workshops and lessons available. Coming soon, correspondence and internet training in Animal Energy Healing. www.animalenergy.com, lynn@animalenergy.com, (416) 219-3803.

CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide. Share your Love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults, email (315) 329-0116, angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org ANIMAL COMMUNICATION WITH LOVE – Alive, and in Spirit. Counseling (choosing a new friend, behaviors, illness, dying, grief, lost animals.

Healing, Classes (including Tele-conference), Personal Guidance, Wisdom from your animals, dolphins, Totems and others. Affordable. Morgine (360) 247-7284 morgine@tds.net, www.communicationswithlove.com SUE BECKER – Interspecies Communication, Registered Practitioner of Tellington TTouch and Bach Flower Remedies. Resolve problems and stress, improve behaviour, deepen understanding and your relationship. Emotional healing.

Consultations by phone/in person, lectures, workshops. Call (519) 896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net ANIMAL TELEPATH & HEALER: Tell your pets, alive or passed, of your love or ask things you’ve wanted to know. Address physical or emotional issues. Sessions include intuitive healing. Cindy Westen: www.chatswithanimals.com; (760) 533-4603; cwes10@earthlink.net.

ASSISI INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL INSTITUTE – Dedicated to promoting respect, reverence, and ethical stewardship for all animals through workshops and consciousness raising activities. Wide variety of animal communication and Tellington TTouch classes throughout the US, Canada and Europe. www.aiaianimal.org, or call (510) 569-6123.

JIM PRUDOM – INTERSPECIES COMMUNICATOR AND COUNSELLOR. Helping you and your animal companion to: resolve physical health and emotional/behavioral issues, increase human-animal interaction and spiritual awareness. Deceased animals. Lost animals.

Therapeutic Touch teacher and practitioner, craniosacral practitioner, flower essences, Tellington Ttouch. Available for phone/in-person consultations, workshops, lectures, distance healing, private coaching. Call (519) 570-9150 ANIMAL COMMUNICATION – If my cat/dog/ horse does that one more time, I’m going to (1) scream, (2) explode, (3) call Calloway M’Cloud, an experienced, professional animal communicator. Discover your animal friend’s perspective. Solve frustrating behavioral issues.

Consultations, healing sessions and workshops.

TOLLFREE 1-866-249-2200, www.horscery.org.

DO YOU WONDER what your animal is thinking or feeling, experience behaviour or emotional problems with them? Have concerns about their death or dying? For telepathic communication with your beloved companion – please request a consultation by phone or email. Phone (780) 592-2194. Email: debtalk@incentre.net.

PATRICE RYAN, ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR & INTUITIVE HEALER – Featured Television Appearances and Magazine Articles. Open

the communication between you and your pet.

Telephone Readings and House Calls.

(818) 241-2624 www.celestialcrystals.com

an immunity. Fleabusters is less toxic that common table salt. Easy to apply. Visit our website www.fleabusters.com or call us @ (800) 666-3532.

MAIA KINCAID Ph.D. – INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED Animal Communicator & Intuitive Guide For Humans. Understand your pet’s wishes in life, death, transitions, health, behaviors, & enhance your animal communication.

(541) 385-6846 www.maiakincaid.com

EarthSafe Yard Treatment – Get rid of the fleas in your backyard with a safe product that can be sprayed on grass & bushes. Check out our other Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products at www.earthsafe.net or call us at (310) 352-6999

Animal Health HERBS OF THE WORLD – Natural Products for pets: Highest Quality Herbal support – aging, tumours, nerves, digestion, respiratory, hair, coat, Preventative Health. (208) 756-1641 WWW.PETHERBALIST.COM NORTH WEST NATURALS WILDCRAFTED APAWTHECARY, formulated for Mutts & Men and YOU too! Herbal extracts, immune support, biomagnetics, anti-viral, deodorants, coat spritz, salves, shampoo. Restore your health naturally. Profits support animal rescue. www.north-west-naturals.com FURVANA – Holistic Animal Options offers certified Tellington TTouch and Reiki for all Companion Animals. Private sessions or workshops available. Contact Connie Riehl (419) 332-1937 or furvana@juno.com all-natural DOG skin care Product – Jake’s Remedy – The MIRACLE SPRAY! Heals Hotspots, Dermatitis, Abrasions and more.

Promotes Hair Growth. Also carry skin care products for CATS & HORSES. (877) 973-8848, FrogWorks@att.net WWW.FFROGWORKS.COM.

Associations INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK Professional Assn. to support, network and promote complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, newsletter and insurance. Welcome practitioners of animal massage, acupressure, Vet’s, Vet Tech’s, Reiki, Animal Communication, Flower Essence, Aroma, Sound and Magnetics.

(800) 903-9350 www.IAAMB.org

Books, Publications & Videos SPECIES LINK The quarterly journal devoted to interspecies communication since 1990. Send $25 check made to Anima Mundi Incorporated, P.O. Box 1060, Pt. Reyes, CA 94956. (415) 663-1247 Sample articles www.animaltalk.net.

GREYHOUND TALES, TRUE STORIES OF RESCUE, COMPASSION AND LOVE – Edited by Nora Star. Read stories of these wondrous hounds and how you too can help their plight. $15.95 to Star, 9728 Tenaya Way, Kelseyville, CA 95451

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Holistic Veterinarians EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC – A variety of holistic healing services are available to our patients, including: Homeopathy, Hair Analysis, Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic, Computerized Organ Stress Immune Testing, Acupuncture, Therapeutic Nutrition, Reiki and Bach Flower Remedies. Dr. Paul McCutcheon (416)757-3569 Fax (416)285-7483 eyac@ca.inter.net www.holisticpetvet.com ESSEX ANIMAL CLINIC – Dr. Janice Huntingford, Dr. Glen Porteous, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional and Alternative Medicine and Surgery. Herbal Therapies and Holistic Medicine, Pet Massage, Physio and Rehab Therapy. Phone consultations available. (519) 776-7325 Essex ON. essexanimalclinic@cogeco.net www.essexanimalclinic.com GODERICH VETERINARY CLINIC – Dr. Bill Schilthuis. Holistic homeopathic health, complementary medicine. All animal species. Homeopathic alternatives to vaccinations, worming, flea control, heartworm treatment remedies available. Free consultations by phone daily between 7 & 9 p.m. except Thursday and Sunday. Phone (519) 524-2631 Fax (519)524-2633 Email holistic@hurontel.on.ca GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the animal and client. Guelph Animal Hospital (519) 836-2782 DR. CYNTHIA HARCOURT VETERINARY SERVICES – A holistic office and mobile service welcoming your interest in working with you and your animal using homeopathy, nutrition, flower essences, CEDS (food sensitivity and organ stress testing), herbs, therapeutic touch and Tellington Ttouch. Located at 21894 Woodbine Ave., Queensville, ON (approximately 45 minutes north of Toronto). Phone (905) 478-1995 Fax (905) 478-8097 NORTH-EAST NEWMARKET VETERINARY SERVICES – Dr. Autumn Louise Drouin, Veterinarian, Naturopath. Cozy outpatient office. Detailed history,

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ORDER YOUR CLASSIFIED AD 1-866-764-1212 or classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com Animal Wellness Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising submitted, make stylistic changes or cancel any advertising accepted upon refund of payment made. animal wellness

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Who’s training who?

by Janette Slack

I

find it fascinating when someone claims they’ve trained their cat to use a human toilet. I don’t doubt these claims, but I have to ask: what’s in it for the cat? With felines being the bribing opportunists they are, there has to be a pay-off somewhere.

Peach, our 13-year old shorthair, has pursued a successful and rewarding career inventing bribes that help her achieve her highest goals.

Experience has taught her that yowling at four in the morning will not elicit breakfast, and is liable to get her expelled from bedroom premises.

Instead, she has worked out a plan of lying next to me, ramming her insistent, silky noggin into my neck and wrapping both forelegs, claws included, endearingly around my arm. Next comes a gaze of fawning adoration, followed by waves of loud, blissful purring. How can one resist this clingy, helpless creature that depends on you for her very survival? One simply gets up, traipses blindly into the kitchen, and puts the can opener to work.

Peach has also masterminded an ingenious way of getting belly rubs. She has latched onto the fact that cuteness is a virtue no human can resist, and has thus perfected the ultimate “cute” pose: lie on back, cock head sideways, and gaze up with an air of playful innocence. In a flash, the victim (usually me) will abandon whatever crucial task is at hand, coo “Oh, you’re

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soooo cute!” and follow up with a lengthy kitty massage. Lately, Peach has taken this one step further and begun running to the food bowl as soon as the victim (me) starts the massage.

In her advancing years, Peach has become somewhat arthritic.

We help by lifting her onto beds and sofas, and providing her with a footstool to make the climb a little easier. She precedes us to the desired spot, rivets her pleading eyes on us and utters a soft “ow.” One of us picks her up and strokes her with all the loving care of Mother Theresa, then places her gently on the bed or sofa. One day, I stood out of view as she approached the highest bed in the house. I suddenly realized the footstool was missing, but this presented no problem. After turning to see if anyone was watching, Peach negotiated the leap with apparent ease. It must have been one of her better days.

Those proud cat trainers may feel good about themselves, having exerted all that control over their feline’s bathroom habits. I can’t deny it must be liberating never having to clean a litterbox, but I still can’t help wondering: what price do these people pay? In this household, we render servitude for the sake of cuteness and some loving adoration; it’s just the way we’ve been trained. We know it’s all part of an intricate master plan, though, and we never complain.

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animalwellness To advertise in the Southern Ontario section of Animal Wellness Magazine, contact Anne Gibson at: 416-504-4310 or 866-464-5214 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com

s o u t h e r n

Photo: Kristina Ross

ontario Artist

Paul Boddum

puts his heart and soul into dog portraiture

by Ann Brightman

W

When Toronto-based artist Paul Boddum first began exploring the world of animal art over 15 years ago, he wasn’t actually planning to become a dog portraitist. “I had thought a lot about finding a subject matter that was interesting to me,” he

Paul takes time out from painting to share a moment with Noah.

explains. “I was doing an exercise where you make a sketch from a picture, and had all these photos from a dog show. I did a painting from one of them and it turned out really well.” Paul subsequently turned to pictures in vintage dog breed books animal wellness – southern ontario region

i

“I was inspired just by seeing people walk their dogs down the street, and thinking, ‘oh, what a beautiful dog.’ That’s what started me on animal art.” as models for his art, and also started studying the canines he saw in his own neighborhood.

“I was inspired just by seeing people walk their dogs down the street, and thinking, ‘oh, what a beautiful dog.’

That’s what started me on animal art.”

From there, it was a natural progression for Paul. “My day job wasn’t fulfilling enough and I needed to express my art.” He continued painting dogs, and found that it seemed to be largely an undiscovered territory in the world of art. “I didn’t see what I felt about dogs in other artwork in which they appeared,” he says. “It’s not a main subject in fine art and I felt there was a lot to explore.”

well as B.C. and New York. My website (www.paulboddum.com) has also helped me get the word out.”

Paul’s unique style garners a lot of attention. “I visited galleries around the world to get a sense of what attracted me and what makes a really interesting piece of art that also has longevity,” he explains. “I was especially attracted to a sort of minimal modern style that many New York artists have used, so I researched these artists, learned from them, and incorporated their style into my own.”

Paul works from photos to create his paintings, and includes his clients’ ideas and concepts to make each piece as individual as possible. “For local clients, I take photo sessions for paintings, since a live sitting would be impossible with a dog. I usually go through two or three rolls of film just to get one shot for a painting. I also get a sense of the owner’s style so the painting reflects their personal tastes as well as the love they have for their dog.”

More recently, Paul has begun using his art to help raise awareness of animal adoption. Last year, he produced a calendar of his work, the proceeds of which went to Animal Alliance of Canada’s animal rescue network, Project Jessie. The same year, he and his wife adopted a Project Jessie dog, a cockapoo named Noah. “He was given up by a family who’d just had a newborn baby and didn’t want the dog anymore,” says Paul. “I’m actually allergic to dogs, and we’d been looking for a hypoallergenic breed like Noah. That’s how he came into our lives.”

Paul began displaying his Paul adds that having a works at outdoor art shows, dog of his own has had a where he was able to meet Top: One of Paul’s many acts of charity include this calendar he created for Project profound influence on him and network with people, get Jessie. Above: A commissioned painting of Gesso, belonging to Lisa Agostini, Maine. and his work; so much so, feedback on his art, and learn in fact, that he has begun more about animal portraiture. a series of large paintings “I also took part in an animal event called Woofstock, which was of Noah, and intends to donate part of the proceeds from a fantastic launching pad for me.” Before long, Paul was getting their sale to Project Jessie. “Noah has changed our lives so commissions from people to paint their dogs, and since then he’s much. He’s a great dog, with so much love and tenderness. never looked back. “The commissions come from all over,” he Hopefully, my paintings will reflect and celebrate that.” Who says. “Not only from the GTA, but also other parts of Ontario as says the artistic muse can’t have four legs?

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Fighting flea allergies

Photo: Alexandra Sweeney

by Melanie Davies

I

t was a lovely mid-summer morning when Muggi and Kolby, two rambunctious Portuguese Water Dogs, entered our salon after a great weekend at the cottage. Their “Daddy” told us they’d been swimming, rolling, and frolicking through the wilderness, but now it was time to be cleaned and primped at the spa. It’s a rough life for Toronto dogs!

look at the water, we realized that all those black specs were not sand grains, but fleas! The redness was from undigested blood and flea droppings. We immediately applied a customized blend of essential oils mixed with a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo, designed to knock out the fleas and remove the eggs without leaving residual toxins. Fortunately, it worked like a charm.

We deep-conditioned them, picked off the burrs, and put them in the tub for deep cleansing. We expected the water to run brown and full of sand; instead, it turned red! We frantically searched the dogs for a wound, but found nothing. When we took a closer

Starting from scratch My own dogs have never seen a flea, thanks largely to a natural diet and frequent grooming. A healthy dog or cat has healthy blood that will not under normal circumstances attract fleas,

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animal wellness – southern ontario region

which typically feast on the weak.

Poor quality commercial diets, over-vaccination and other factors can also cause animals to develop an allergy to flea saliva called flea bite dermatitis. One bite is all it may take to send your pet into a scratching frenzy. The misconception is that the animal is covered in fleas, so people try to kill them with topical anti-parasite products. Unfortunately, these only aggravate sensitive skin and do nothing to stop scratching.

Steroids and antihistamines slow itching, but they neither soothe the skin nor help the immune system.

How do you know if your dog or cat has a flea allergy? If the problem is worse during the summer, and abates during the winter, that’s a clue. If he’s scratching, try to pinpoint the area and take a close look at the skin. There will be a small pin-point bite surrounded by a red halo. If left untreated, the animal may scratch for relief until the skin is rubbed raw, causing a hot spot. A soothing calendula cream or a well-diluted mix of either tea tree oil or lavender will help soothe localized itching. Check with a local health food store or certified aromatherapist for a customized blend. Having your animal professionally bathed with a soothing shampoo or rinse helps as well. If there is already an open wound, try a paste of un-pasteurized honey to help suck out toxins and promote healing. Cover it in plastic wrap to prevent a mess.

Of course, switching to a healthier diet and minimizing vaccinations should be considered in the successful treatment of flea allergies.

A healthy lifestyle strengthens the immune system and makes the animal less susceptible to developing allergies of any kind.

Making fleas flee No product will stop fleas from biting, but it will prevent their reproduction. Think twice before using commercial products.

Many have negative effects due to their high toxicity. Topical

products that advise you not to touch your animal for 24 to 48 hours after application do not sound friendly to me! For safety’s sake, consider whether or not you would use the product on yourself.

I prefer to use a hydrosol spray formulated by a certified aromatherapist to help repel fleas. Hydrosols are a highly effective and therapeutic by-product of the production of essential oils.

They are gentle and safe to use on animals and children and are especially good for cats, who can’t tolerate essential oils in undiluted form.

Fleas are resilient, so be diligent in cleaning your pets and their environment.

• During flea season (from first thaw to first frost in Ontario), vacuum all carpets and couches at least once a week, and ideally every other day in high-traffic areas.

• Add a few drops of lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil to your vacuum bag to help repel the pests.

• Steam-clean carpets and upholstery as an effective way to kill eggs.

• Wash floors and dog bedding weekly.

• Make flea traps by assembling a shallow dish of soapy water beneath a small lamp and placing it near your animal’s resting area in the evening. Fleas will be attracted by the warmth of the light and jump to their demise into the soapy water dish.

• Brush and comb your pet daily and have him groomed at least once a month to maintain a healthy, flea-free skin and coat.

Melanie Davies owns and operates Bow Wow Wow Salon and Dogma Wellness in Toronto. She has developed her own methodology and approach to animal wellness through knowledge and experience in nutrition, handling and advanced grooming techniques, and provides seminars and consulting to groomers and dog caregivers.

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A close-up look at Bill 132 – how the “pit bull”ban affects you

by Steve Barker

A

As anyone who has been following the recent “pit bull” ban knows, Bill 132 was introduced by the governing Liberal Party of Ontario as an attempt to legislate dangerous dogs by making changes to the Dog Owners’ Liability Act and the Animals for Research Act. The new law was passed on March 1 of this year, and takes effect August 29.

• banning the importation of pit bulls into Ontario (including dogs belonging to tourists or visitors) • requiring all existing pit bulls to be muzzled, leashed, and sterilized • exempting registered show pit bulls from sterilization, but not from the ban on breeding • allowing visiting pit bulls to attend Ontario dog shows for a maximum of 14 days • controlling how pounds may deal with impounded pit bulls.

How does Bill 132 regulate “pit bull” type dogs?

The law defines a “pit bull” as a pit bull terrier, a Staffordshire bull terrier, an American Staffordshire terrier, an American pit bull terrier, or a dog that has an appearance and physical characteristics substantially similar to those dogs. Bill 132 regulates these dogs by: • banning all new pit bulls in Ontario animal wellness – southern ontario region

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There is no better time to join this $2 billion industry.

With over 50% of Canadian households having pets, this unique opportunity has been steadily growing for 25 years.

The bill introduces further significant changes that concern all breeds of dogs. Although it includes “is a menace” in addition to “bites or attacks” as an offence, it does not define “menace.” As well, victims of menacing now also include “domestic animal” as well as “person”.

The bill expands the search and seizure power of police and other officials, increases fines to as much as $10,000 for individuals and $60,000 for corporations, and adds up to six months of jail time for offences.

Challenging the legislation

prominent attorney Clayton Ruby to challenge the legislation. For more information on Bill 132, and how you can contribute to the legal challenge, visit www.doglegislationcouncilcanada.org or www.bannedaid.com.

Steve Barker is the Ontario Director for the Dog Legislation Council of Canada, a Canada-wide not-for-profit organization dedicated to responsible dog guardianship, fair and effective legislation for dog guardians and public education about dog bite prevention.

The government held four days of committee hearings, during which 50 organizations, including some of North America’s most qualified authorities on canine behavior, responsible breeding, and dog bite prevention participated.

Not one supported the breed-specific portion of the law. The government’s only response was to make the Bill even more vague in its definition of the targeted dogs, and to allow a veterinarian with unverified qualifications to perform the identification. The government also rejected specific recommendations for a province-wide dog bite prevention program, a dog owner education program, a dog bite registry, and mandatory spaying or neutering of dogs not for purebred breeding.

The Dog Legislation Council of Canada (DLCC) is deeply concerned that this legislation will result in the confiscation of family pets with no history of aggression, including dogs of mixed or uncertain heritage. It will not improve public safety because it does not adequately address the problem of truly dangerous dogs of all breeds but, instead, targets unoffending dogs simply because of the way they look. We have already seen this happen in many other jurisdictions, including Windsor, which implemented its own ban in October of last year. The DLCC also fears that neighbor-toneighbor disputes over unrelated issues will degenerate into targeting innocent owners of dogs of all breeds.

The Banned Aid Coalition, of which DLCC is a member, has retained animal wellness – southern ontario region

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Toronto’s feral

cats

get a helping

hand

by Shana Mortimer-Gibson

Shelters and food make life a little easier for Toronto’s feral cats.

Y

ou may find it hard to believe, but it’s estimated that some 500,000 stray, abandoned and feral cats live in the Toronto area, struggling to survive in the wild urban environment.

Feral cats are un-owned, free-roaming cats that have never lived with humans. They may be the offspring of feral cats, or of tame strays. They form colonies wherever there is a source of food and shelter – behind restaurants, near dumpsters, in sheds or deserted buildings. The colony’s growth and size ultimately depends on the availability of food and shelter, and can range from three or four cats to 25 or more.

Primarily nocturnal and skilled at hiding and avoiding people, these cats go unnoticed by most Torontonians.

Unfortunately, as the number of feline pets in Toronto grows, so too does its number of stray and, consequently, feral cats.

In our society, animals are still considered property and are therefore easily disposed of by irresponsible owners. City bylaws require cats to be licensed, but not spayed or neutered,

Why so many?

Cats are becoming increasingly popular as urban pets. They’re more independent than dogs and adapt better to smaller living spaces. animal wellness – southern ontario region

xiii

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and our lenient anti-cruelty laws do not protect them from abandonment. People often move and leave their cats behind to fend for themselves. Action Volunteers for Animals (AVA), a registered charity in Toronto, frequently receives calls from panic-stricken homeowners who started feeding one stray cat, but later find they have 15 or more hungry felines relying on them for food.

Because there are no city-funded TNR programs, animal charities are struggling to meet the needs of feral cats, yet are doing an amazing amount of work and education. In 2003 alone, AVA neutered approximately 2,000 feral/stray cats, adopted out 250, and spent over $285,000 on veterinary expenses. Charities also regularly pull cats and kittens from animal control centers just prior to euthanization, and put them into their adoption programs.

What is being done?

What can you do?

The city’s animal control service has adopted the two most cost-effective approaches to dealing with feral cats – one is to leave them alone, and the other is to trap and euthanize. Neither is humane, nor will it bring feral colonies under control. Because of the elusive nature of feral cats, it is very difficult to trap and euthanize an entire colony. If just two breeding cats remain, the numbers quickly grow again. As well, the vacuum created by removing cats from a site simply allows more to move in!

• The most important thing is to spay or neuter your cat.

Encourage your friends, neighbors and relatives to do the same.

Numerous animal rescue groups in the GTA instead use the trap, neuter, release or rehabilitate (TNR) approach. While being neutered, the cats are ear-tipped to facilitate identification. If they’re wild, they’re released; if they’re young or tame enough to become adoptable, they’re rehabilitated. Released cats are returned to their original location and a caregiver provides shelter, food and water, and monitors the colony’s wellbeing.

Newcomers to the colony are generally not welcomed by the group, and gradually the colony size diminishes.

• If you are feeding feral cats, you must start a TNR program. Take up a collection among neighbors and friends and use your local animal charity as an educational resource.

• Support your local animal rescue charity, and participate in their fundraising activities and rescue efforts.

Shana Mortimer-Gibson is a physiotherapist and the President of Action Volunteers for Animals, a non profit registered charity founded by Merlin Andrew in 1972. She has been involved in animal rescue for over 30 years. For more information on AVA, call (416) 439-8770.

animal wellness – southern ontario region

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Dog meets dog –

making the switch to a multi-canine household

Photo: Nancy McCaughlin

by Lisa Kruitwagen

W

hen Jon Fowles of Toronto considered adding another dog to his canine family, he asked himself some important questions: “Do I have the time to devote to another dog, and do I have the financial resources to support her? Last but not least, how will she get along with Jazz, my rescued greyhound?” As a professional dog trainer who really enjoys the training process, Jon wanted a young dog that would enjoy participating in canine sports. He also wanted one that was friendly with people, so he could take her with him to visit seniors. And, of course, he needed a dog

that would get on well with other canines.

The transition to a multi-dog household goes more smoothly if you have a plan in place. Here are four key points to consider:

1

Before choosing another dog, take the time to observe your existing dog in social settings. Understand his idiosyncrasies and use them to help select the best dog for you both. Jon’s greyhound Jazz, for example, initially showed some stress around other dogs, but learned to relate to them better and

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even looked forward to playing with them occasionally.

2

3

4

“...it is important for each dog to spend time alone with the people in his or her life. The bond dogs share with their human caretakers is the most vital one, and is what gives them feelings of safety and belonging.”

Evaluate your training skills. You and your dog should brush up on basic obedience before bringing another dog into the home. A quick “sit” or “down” can diffuse canine conflicts. Some dogs are more of a project than people are prepared for, so it’s important to understand your own abilities. Every dog is an individual, and some are just not right for every situation.

says Jon. “I knew in advance that both dogs were safe around other dogs so I intervened as little as possible.” Jon paid special attention to Jazz when Hailey was around. Their daily routine included scheduled, supervised meal times, lots of exercise, and regular training to channel Hailey’s abundant energy. The strategy worked, and Hailey became a permanent member of the household. She now fits very well into Jon and Jazz’s lifestyle.

Think about your expectations. The dogs may not be buddies right away, and you can generate more conflict by attempting to make them friends before they’re ready.

Keep in mind that the dogs do not need to spend every moment together, whether they’re sleeping or playing. In fact it is important for each dog to spend time alone with the people in his or her life. The bond dogs share with their human caretakers is the most vital one, and is what gives them feelings of safety and belonging.

Heather White of the Oakville Humane Society says people should also think about how having two dogs will affect day-to-day care. “Feeding, sleeping, walking on a leash, play time, all require consideration because it is not always smooth sailing when you have two dogs,” she says.

“People should really take their time to find the dog that best suits their lifestyle.”

With proper training and integration, Jazz and Hailey now live happily together with Jon.

Lisa Kruitwagen

After working through these issues, Jon fostered a border collie/whippet mix named Hailey, to see how she would work out with Jazz. “Our first meeting was on neutral territory,”

is the director of

Dealing

with

Dogs Limited,

a lifestyle obedience training school with four locations around the

GTA. She

focuses on management and positive rein-

forcement training techniques to help people develop the best possible relationship with their dogs. www.dealingwithdogs.com

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I

“I love dogs, and have two of my own, but there’s nothing worse than stepping in their mess,” says Sheila, a Markham-based graphics designer who shares her life with a pair of dachshunds.

“Wherever I take my girls for a walk, I always make sure I clean up after them.”

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animal wellness – southern ontario region

Now more than ever, people are expected to pick up after their canines. It’s not just another trend. The pet population continues to grow throughout southern Ontario and beyond, and so does the number of responsible guardians. Most homes, in fact, include at least one four-footed family member. As a result, there are now all kinds of pooper scooper products on the market, from special bags to hand-held tools, all of which cater to the need for keeping lawns, parks and sidewalks clean and sanitary.

Among the businesses specializing in these items is Petrenz Pet Products (www.petrenz.com), a relatively new Canadian company. Petrenz takes a threefold approach – people, pets and the environment – when creating its product lines. It takes into consideration the potential health risks of handling and discarding dog waste, and also recognizes the importance of being easy on the planet.

“Unlike many doggie waste bags on

Left: Victoria Galley and Goldie go for a stroll, not without a poop bag! Above: Goldie has been Victoria’s inspiration. Right: the Pentrenz product as a whole.

the market, which will remain intact for decades, ours are biodegradable and break down when exposed to the elements,” says owner Victoria Galley.

“The bags are designed to begin the biodegrading process within approximately two months of disposal, and will break down in less time than leaves would in the same circumstances. They leave behind no harmful residues.”

There are other biodegradable bags on the market, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. They can be purchased in various styles, colors, thicknesses, and prices and can also be treated to degrade at different rates, some taking weeks, months or years. “Our bags generally require a mixture of

mechanical stressors to begin the degrading process, such as high temperatures, UV, and other natural factors,” explains Victoria.

“On the other hand, some biodegradable bags out there can become brittle while sitting in a drawer, and may expire prior to use.” The Petrenz bags are white so you can easily see and avoid touching any waste that might stick to the bag during pick-up.

They’re also relatively thick to help minimize breakage.

Petrenz takes its concern for human and environmental health even further, and encourages community parks to consider using biodegradable bags as a safer and more planet friendly alternative. “All receptacles currently used in parks are for both dog waste and ordinary trash, and that poses a health risk to employees responsible for separating the two,” says Victoria. “One possible way to address this would be to supply separate receptacles, one for trash and one for doggie waste bags, but unless the doggie waste bags are either all biodegradable or all non-biodegradable, they would still need to be separated. If all dog owners and walkers were to begin using biodegradable bags, this separation system could become a very practical solution to a growing problem.”

With Petrenz and other pet-related businesses promoting the use of biodegradable dog waste bags, we can help the planet, and ourselves, while cleaning up after our pooches. “After all,” says Victoria, “there’s no such thing as a poop fairy!”

animal wellness – southern ontario region

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Woofstock 2005 – Animal Wellness Magazine was there!

Big, small, really small, totally gigantic and extremely polite describe the dogs at this year’s Woofstock. Thousands of dogs poured through the gates in an endless stream over the weekend of June 4th and 5th, 2005, and Animal Wellness Magazine’s Living Pawsitive Relaxation booth was there to pamper them. Dogs of all kinds were treated to free massages, TTouch therapy and holistic grooming, and their guardians received nutritional advice along with natural health care information so their animals would live the longest, healthiest lives possible.

Southern Ontario Living Pawsitive Postings August 6, 2005 Natural Aromatherapy Flea Collar Hosted by Teresa Mazzella (Certified Aromatherapist) Location: Canine Wellness Centre, 2328 Queen Street East (416) 690-1077 Learn the basics about essential oils and their usage, physical & emotional healing properties of key essential oils and assemble your own aromatherapy flea collar to take home with you.

Cost: $75. Course Time:1pm- 3pm August 14, 2005 Tellington Touch II Presented by Critter Comfort

xx

Location: Canine Wellness Centre, 2328 Queen Street East (416) 690-1077 Introduction Tellington TTouch will focus on building canine confidence and promoting a happy canine-guardian relationship.

Cost: $175. Course Time: 11am-5pm August 20, 22, 2005 Massage I Presented by Critter Comfort Location: Canine Wellness Centre, 2328 Queen Street East (416) 690-1077 introductory massage techniques that you can bond with your canine companion and help to relieve stress and provide overall

animal wellness – southern ontario region

health and well being.

Cost: $150. Course Time: 11am-5pm Thursday August 25, 2005 Managing Fireworks & Thunderstorm Fears Presented by Critter Comfort Location: Canine Wellness Centre, 2328 Queen Street East (416) 690-1077 Find out how you can help reduce stress during traumatic times such as fireworks and thunderstorms by using several natural calming techniques.

Cost: $45. Course Time: 7pm-8:30 pm

September 10, 2005 Massage II Presented by Critter Comfort Location: Canine Wellness Centre, 2328 Queen Street East (416) 690-1077 Continuation of intro to canine massage focusing joint mobility, toxin elimination and the use of common essential oils.

(Certification Available) Course includes: light lunch and a massage Home Care Kit Cost: $150. Course Time: 11am-5pm

To submit your Living Pawsitive Postings, email: agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com

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The Secord Animal Hospital, 3271 Yonge St., Toronto, ON, is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Joanna Milan to its staff of veterinarians as of January 2005. Her practice is exclusively dedicated to the complementary care areas of acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine and nutraceuticals for companion animals. Appointments with Dr. Joanna Milan can be booked by calling the hospital at 416-486-1700.

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animalwellness

L O S A N& GR EEGLI EO SN To advertise in this section of Animal Wellness Magazine, contact Becky Starr at: 213-793-1867 or bstarr@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Actor

Lisa Edelstein

celebrates the life lessons she’s learned from animals

A

Actor Lisa Edelstein consistently offers viewers memorable performances in fearlessly off-beat roles. Currently starring in the Fox network medical hit House, her long list of credentials includes impressive work on top-rated shows such as West Wing and The Practice, as well as film and voiceover work. You’ll also soon catch her on the final segment of the Fathers and Sons trilogy, and on the big screen in Say Uncle.

Lisa’s participation in the world of animals has been equally wide-ranging and enthusiastic. She has an insightful perspective on our four-legged friends, admiring them as individuals on their own life journeys, and as teachers who have helped her grow as a person.

Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

by Susan Draffan

Lisa, resting here with Wolfy, Sandwich and Bumpa, believes her animals help bring balance to her life.

What set the stage for this compassionate epiphany?

It all started when the actress was a teenager and adopted by a cat who proceeded to have three litters. When Lisa discovered that half the kittens she’d given away had been killed, she was devastated. “It was a huge lesson for me. I couldn’t believe how thoughtless people are. I cried so hard, and felt so helpless and so angry. I still feel that way. We can’t control everyone’s actions or their ideas about animals and the value of their lives or their consciousness.”

As if testing her resolve, fate continued to put animals in need in Lisa’s path. There was the aggressive pit bull she found in animal wellness – los angeles & region

i

“You learn a lot from animals about forward thinking, as opposed to backward thinking. Animals accept what’s happened, deal with it and then look forward. They’re not ruined over things.”

Griffith Park, the emaciated cat with a collapsed lung who dragged her feeble body to the actor’s back door, and the exhausted and starving parakeet who landed on the yellow line in the middle of the road right in front of Lisa’s house. The actor located new homes for these rescues and others in magical ways and in record time. She describes the experiences as a mutual exchange: she finds help for the animals and they show her how to overcome adversity.

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animal wellness – los angeles & region

Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

Not surprisingly, some of the rescues won her heart over and moved in with her permanently. Her animal family is a harmonious group of one cat and three dogs. Bug, the 14-year-old feline and the first member of Lisa’s clan, holds her own, even with three large canines in the house, and the dogs – well, In addition to rescuing animals, Lisa donates time and funds to several non-profit organizations, including Best they all have their own stories. Friends Animal Sanctuary and New Leash on Life.

Sandwich, the pup of a rescued Lisa’s natural ability to communicate with animals helps her dog, was just four months old when she was hit by a van and so embrace a pack mentality. “My animals are all so different; three critically injured that Lisa devoted an entire month to help her very distinctive canine personalities plus my cat and they’re all recover. Now 11 years young, Sandwich enjoys agility courses attuned to a different piece of me. It’s such a wonderful feeling, despite her reconstructed hip and short leg. like having satellites of yourself going out and running around, and then the minute you call them back, they all fall in place and Wolfy was found close to death on a film shoot, suffering from you’re intact again.” brain damage and convulsions. He was in such horrible shape when Lisa met him that he literally fell over onto her feet. After The actor feels that each of her animals has brought a unique lots of medical attention and tender loving care, his seizures gift to her life. Sandwich blessed her with the opportunity to stopped and he learned to walk again with an idiosyncratically completely care for someone. Wolfy has been a role model beautiful gait; each step is a hop and he runs in a series of for how to recover from a tragedy gracefully. Bumpa blends jumps like a gazelle. a tender heart with courage. Bug is impressively loyal and affectionate. Together, they serve as a reminder of what’s real Lisa claimed Bumpa at a garage sale. “She’s the ‘most dog’ of and important. the group,” says the actor. “She hasn’t had any major issues but she’s had a few catastrophes – like taking a flying leap “There’s something about taking care of other creatures that over a sharp object and unzipping her chest, which was pretty gets you out of your own head,” explains Lisa. “You come terrifying”. Her tough exterior belies her emotional sensitivity, home to pure love. My job is my job and my life is my life. I and she endearingly herds Bug, who responds by weaving have a great job that I love. And then there’s the rest.” between Bumpa’s legs.

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Unique agency helps

by Jenelle Clark

T

he walls of the Pets and People Homefinders office are decorated with pictures of happy animals, thank you notes from grateful members, and area maps from Ventura County south through San Diego. Across the floor, rescued shepherd/Lab sisters Millie Magnolia and Gypsy Rose wait patiently for the calls, faxes and endless emails to stop so they can go to the park.

Pets and People Homefinders (PPH) is a unique agency that assists people in finding rental properties that will accept them and their animals as well. Their clientele is as varied as the population and areas they serve. For example, PPH recently located a new rental house for both the humans and older, hard-to-adopt cats belonging to Venice Animal Allies, and they did it within days of being contacted. Regular customers Roy and his two very sweet pit bulls have found new homes in Marina del Rey through PPH three times over the past seven years.

Pasadena’s first and finest in daycare for your dog.

We have three thousand square feet of indoor and outdoor play areas so your dog can romp around at will.

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animal wellness – los angeles & region

Especially for guardians of breed-restricted animals and rescuers who live with numerous animals, locating suitable rentals is a huge challenge in southern California – not to mention a full-time job! PPH works with over 18,000 property representatives to help keep families together and animals out of shelters and, most importantly, off the streets.

Owner Jenelle Clark believes that education is the key to helping property representatives, insurance agencies and tenants to see eye-to-eye on the animal-related issues which separate them. She says that renters need to understand that animals, even small ones, are a liability for property owners.

Likewise, some property owners and insurance companies need to understand that for many people, animals are members of the family!

Prices and availability of pet-friendly rentals are the most common obstacles for people with animals. Rental rates can be staggering in southern California, ranging from $500 to $9,000 per month, depending on the area. Moreover, the currently escalating regional real estate market is causing many owners to sell their properties, and their buyers are frequently concerned enough with the value of their new holdings to institute a “no-pets” policy.

This is a shock for many tenants, particularly the elderly, many of whom are forced to leave their residences despite

people find pet-friendly

rentals

Above: Happy home-finders, Holly Kramer and Lucky. Right: Karrie Dooley and Maxwell. Below: Jenelle’s inspiration, Krypton. Below right: Robyn Feeley of Bungalow Art’s interpretation of Jenelle and her furry friends.

having been exquisite renters and highly responsible animal guardians in the same place for over ten years. It’s not unusual for such displaced tenants to have to move into spaces half the size and with fewer amenities than they are accustomed to.

Fortunately, Jenelle and her incredible Homefinders team find new homes for all kinds of human/animal families.

Although they specialize in helping their members locate luxury pet-friendly rentals, PPH can assist people in almost any income level and housing need. Their many positive and hopeful stories of successful home placements attest to it.

Jenelle Clark

became the owner/operator of

Homefinders Krypton,

after using the service several times to move with

Mastiff

companion.

She

her

has lived with horses, cats and hamsters,

and formerly managed a veterinary hospital.

For

more information, visit

PPH

at www.pets-people.com.

may be contacted at info@pets-people.com or

They (310) 398-6683. animal wellness – los angeles & region

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Photos: Ron Constantine

You’ve heard it before, but it’s true...

we ARE what we eat!

by Bera Dordoni, N.D.

I

t’s funny how unexpected events can entirely alter the direction our lives take. I was perfectly happy making a good living as a singer/songwriter back in the late ’70s. I was young and healthy, living on ice cream by day (to get my protein, of course, since I was a vegetarian!) and caffeine and second-hand nightclub smoke by night. Then, for no reason that I could see, I developed an almost-fatal case of pneumonia which failed to Raw carrots are a perfect respond to conventional treatment. treat for dogs living a Fortunately, before it was too natural lifestyle. late, I was led to a homeopathic doctor who not only cured me, he educated me fast. His advice was simple: change my lifestyle, or die.

I’m still here. I changed my lifestyle and went back to school to study the naturopathy that had saved my life. Singer to doctor – now that’s a helluva leap! Never would I have chosen this new path were it not for the doctor who convinced me to accept responsibility for my own state of health, and helped me to realize how empowering it is to accept that responsibility.

Good for the human, good for the dog All the time I had been steadily trashing my body, I’d been doing the same to my dogs, feeding them everything from commercial vegetarian dog food and processed-food table scraps, to ice cream and whatever I had on hand that they wanted. I’d made them into junk-food vegetarians, just like me, only without the fruits and vegetables. And certainly no meats. I wanted my dogs to love animals as much as I loved them.

And they did love animals – eating them, that is. Why not?

Dogs are carnivorous; they instinctively crave the same diet their ancestors ate to achieve optimal health. They were never designed to be vegetarians! Instead of pneumonia, my poor vegetarian doggies ended up with dry, itchy patches which they chewed on constantly.

organ damage just to “There I was, feeling gain some temporary wonderful from replacing relief. I found out that a huge percentage of all my junk foods with animals’ health probfresh, raw juices and lems are nutritionally based – just like ours. foods. Why wouldn’t my Hmmm. There I was, furry companions feel feeling wonderful from replacing all my junk better if they were foods with fresh, raw correctly nourished too?” juices and foods. Why wouldn’t my furry companions feel better if they were correctly nourished too?

I changed their diets, putting mostly raw chicken, turkey, beef and lamb bones, muscle and organ meats into a food processor, along with finely ground raw organic vegetables and fruits, Two of Bera’s babies, Wylie and Zeus, heard it salmon, eggs, yogurt through the grapevine that naturopathy is the way and cottage cheese, to keep happy, healthy smiles on their faces. plus essential fatty acids from sources like virgin coconut oil. I topped it all with a huge helping of love.

It took less than a week to notice the difference. The flakiness disappeared, replaced by soft, supple skin. Fur grew back over the raw, bitten patches. Their eyes started sparkling. Their energy increased.

Voila! We really are what we eat!

Bera Dordoni, N.D. is a naturopathic doctor who rescues special-needs dogs and treats all their health conditions with nature – nutrition, natural remedies, massage and bodywork therapy. Her highly acclaimed CD “Voice for a Choice!” raises consciousness for animal rescue.

For

Veterinarians offered steroids for the skin problems, but I’d already learned not to suppress their problems and cause deeper

more information, visit www.singingdoctor.com.

Dr. Dordoni

may be reached at bera@singingdoctor.com, or through the

BASTIS Foundation

at

(505)573-8405. animal wellness – california region

vii

Mommy n’ Me pet circles help shy dogs

by Jane Ellen Plotkin

as her identity; she didn’t want the ball to be the way she was known as ‘Daisy’ anymore.

After the introductions, Daisy and her mom went around the circle to offer the other dogs a treat and greet them personally. As her mom presented their treats, Daisy also received a treat from each of the parents in turn, as well as a lavish welcome. The greeting ceremony went well and established a sense of common friendship among all the participants.

Next on the agenda was a play period. I provided the same kind of toy to each dog, so they would feel equal and have something to do while getting to know each other. Each mom gave the toy to a new friend so that intermingling was established as a norm. Daisy did beautifully, even dropping the ball she habitually clung to in favor of her new chew stick.

Photo: (c) 2005 Dan Irvin Photography.

Over the next three weeks, Daisy also got help at home.

Her mom instituted some mommy n’ me play time just for her, about thirty minutes a day. Whenever Rocco tried to get between them, their mom gently moved him to her other side so he could begin learning to share her attention. Daisy and her mom also went to the dog park with Sabine, her new terrier friend from the circle.

A

s soon as I began working as a pet intuitive, I noticed how many animals with dominant siblings feel inadequate. I decided to start a Mommy n’ Me group for shy dogs, and so far, the results have been phenomenal.

Let me tell you the story of Daisy, a bulldog who joined my first play circle. She was just three years old when her mom brought her to the group because of her brother Rocco, another bulldog who is a few months younger than Daisy and the dominant one.

He was receiving most of the attention mainly because he knows how to ask for it. Once he joined the family, Daisy learned to hang back to get attention. She pretended she didn’t care about her mom’s love anymore, and started to sleep in the living room.

At the dog park, while Rocco bounded forward to meet new friends, Daisy hid behind solitary play with her soccer ball.

I invited three other dogs to join the circle, for an even number.

They all had siblings who were more outgoing and socially successful. On the first day, each mom briefly introduced their pet in glowing terms and said a little about why they were there. This introduction allowed each dog to feel appreciated and understood. Daisy went first. After her mom described her, I asked Daisy if there was anything else she wanted the group to know. She said she really wanted to let go of the ball

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The play group met four times in all. By her graduation, Daisy said she felt more like her true self – with the help of her mom and her new friends.

Jane Ellen Plotkin, MFT is a pet communicator and family counselor.

She is

in private practice in the

Los Angeles area and also consults by phone. You can reach her at

(310) 315-1885

or contact her by e-mail at

janeellenplotkin@earthlink.net.

Above left: Daisy. Below: Daisy with her “mom”, Amy Alexander.

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1-800-600-PETS

C

Countless animals in Southern California have never known what it’s like to be healthy, happy and loved. Sadly, many have been abandoned and abused, or forced to contend with perpetual illness from a harsh life on the street.

One local animal rescue, Sante D’Or Foundation, is devoted to restoring the health of homeless cats and dogs through a combination of conventional and holistic care while providing them a safe haven. “Rescued animals are usually in very poor health, so we give them as much nutrition and support for their immune system as we can,” says co-founder Kelly Milam.

The non-profit, no-kill organization was formed in 2002 by Kelly and partner Sonya Lee. Guided by a core belief that all animals deserve the best possible chance at living a full life that is rich in vitality, wellness and love, they named it Sante D’Or, which means “health of gold,” and incorporated homeopathic principles into their guidelines.

All Sante D’Or rescues receive the purest food and raw supplements necessary for optimal health. To speed their rehabilitation, they are

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animal wellness – los angeles & region

Left to right: Sassy, a poodle mix, who was successfully adopted into a good home. Dave, a rescued kitten whose health was rehabilitated.

Pepper, a kitten rescued and successfully adopted, all through the efforts of Sante D’Or Foundation and Justin, a 9-week-old kitten, under the care and training of Sante D’Or Foundation.

routinely given personalized, compassionate care, a clean place to rest, and the comforting reassurance of social interactions with humans and fellow animals. Eco-friendly cat litter and cleaning products are used to maintain the facilities.

In response to caretakers seeking total body wellness for themselves and their animal companions, Sante D’Or also provides holistic services to the public. They offer animal communication sessions to address health, emotional and behavioral concerns, acupressure and hands-on healing techniques to strengthen animals through touch, and organic flower essence remedies and herbal product resources.

“We might be one of the few animal rescues who advocate this approach. It’s important to us that our animals become healthy and develop a sense of well-being before and after they are adopted into good homes,” says Sonya. “Our goal is to provide a stable foundation for animal companions in crises so they may grow strong and capable of participating in a close relationship with their new caretakers. A safe, healthy, well-balanced animal makes a happy, loving and loyal friend.”

genuinely help our cause,” says Sonya. “We’d never be able to continue without their involvement.” Sante D’Or also relies on goodwill relationships with local veterinary hospitals, natural food providers and local pet stores. The high cost of ongoing animal health care presents a particular challenge.

“We want to continue growing, learning and helping through our animal rescue and health programs,” says Kelly. “It gets tough at times, but despite the hardships, we’re really proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish and we hope that people will continue to support our cause in the future.”

Sante D’Or welcomes community involvement and visits to their website, www.santedor.com. They may be contacted at (323) 788-3638 or info@santedor.com. Their mailing address is P.O. Box 29076, Los Angeles, CA 90029.

Author Sharon Tani

has written numerous articles for

non-profit organizations in the

Los Angeles

region.

In

addition

to being an animal rescue advocate, she works as an interactive producer for creative design firms.

Sante D’Or has been well-received in the health-conscious communities of the Los Angeles area and has become an established presence here, often participating in events Oops! In our last issue, we inadvertently left out Dr. Celeste that promote preventative care and the importance of Yarnall’s contact information from her article entitled “Look out spaying and neutering. The burgeoning organization dogs – here comes cat agility!” Dr. Yarnall has a PhD in has recently expanded through outreach programs into nutrition and is the co-owner of Celestial Pets Natural Nutrition Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties. and Holistic Healthcare.Visit www.celestialpets.com, email “Thank goodness for the volunteers and donors who

celestialpet@sbcglobal.net, or call (818) 707-6331.

animal wellness – los angeles & region

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Photo: Dave Glowacki

The best little bungalow in Burbank

by Lisa DiMatteo Sunning, swimming and socializing are all in a day’s work for BWB staff and a day’s play for their happy canine patrons.

I

n an area that’s almost more pet-friendly than it is people-friendly, it could certainly seem that the last thing Southern California needs is another company geared towards pampering spoiled dogs. But one visit to Burbank’s new Bow Wow Bungalow (BWB) might have you wishing that you could spend some time along with your pooch! Located a stone’s throw from the Bob Hope (Burbank) Airport, Bow Wow Bungalow has been described as one part “Doggie Wonderland,” one part hotel, and one part spa.

Of course if your dog’s idea of a vacation is more along the lines of resting comfortably on a plush couch and getting a belly rub, the BWB’s handlers are happy to accommodate them. And have no fear if you’re the owner of a precious toy breed with visions of your Yorkie or Bichon trying to keep up with overbearing labs and shepherds. Smaller pooches rule their own roost with a separate yard that boasts a turquoise, paw-shaped pool and plenty of room to exercise. The little guys and their parents can relax knowing their babies will only be picked on by someone their own size!

The BWB offers it all, from daycare and boarding to grooming and training. Previously a popular doggy daycare, its opening marked the fulfillment of a dream for owner Marcie Campbell, who says, “I feel dogs should be treated as kids. They’re our four-legged children.” Her philosophy is clearly reflected in the BWB’s bright, playful atmosphere, which is just as free-spirited as the owner herself.

By the time the setting sun starts to turn the nearby San Gabriel Mountains brilliant shades of purple, orange and red, the canine kids are happily exhausted from a day of playing, swimming, and socializing. Parents begin to arrive to pick up daycare registrants and boarding clients are treated to dinner and maybe even a bath before they flop down on their very own bed to dream about the day’s adventures.

The comfortable guest sleeping quarters may be called “barracks”, but the atmosphere is anything but stiff and militaristic. With names like the Pooch Penthouse, Heartbreak Hotel, Dogzilla Villa, and the Bone Zone, the accommodations are as fun and creative as the sunny colors that coat the walls. When not sleeping peacefully, the lucky patrons can stretch their limbs by racing around the vast private dog park and swimming in the enormous raspberry-colored bone-shaped pool, complete with a cascading waterfall and several fountains. Tunnels, bridges, toys, and plenty of playful, energetic staff complete the picture, making recreation time at the BWB a canine fantasy come true.

Sound like paradise? The BWB invites you to tour the facility, admire the impressive collection of refurbished antique fire hydrants, and see for yourself how spacious the kennels are.

Most importantly, you can experience the blissful faces of the dogs spending time there. If they could talk they would tell you it’s the next best thing to home, but their wagging tails, lolling tongues, and happy grins will have to be endorsement enough.

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You

can visit the

Bow Wow Bungalow

on-line at

www.bowwowbungalow.net or in-person at

Street, Burbank 91504. To contact email bowwowbungalow1@aol.com.

2711 N. California (818) 565–3555 or

them, call

Photo: Dan Steinberg

New pet adoption kiosks save time and lives

A

An amazing new computerized kiosk system that is revolutionizing the way unwanted and abandoned animals are adopted debuted in L.A. in April. The colorful, easy-to-use kiosks employ networked screens and a centralized database to display the photos and descriptions of thousands of locally adoptable animals.

Instead of having to travel from shelter to shelter seeking their perfect match amongst a large population of abandoned animals, prospective adopters can now access the animals at all participating facilities from the kiosk at each location.

They simply select their preferences on a touch screen and print out profiles of the animals meeting their criteria along with maps of the shelters where they are located.

The kiosk database also serves as a lost-and-found to help reunite animals with their people. Guardians seeking a lost animal can visit any kiosk or log onto the internet, view the found animals being boarded at participating shelters and rescues, and then go directly to the appropriate agency and reclaim them.

The program is a collaboration between PETsMART Charities, Pet-Ark, who developed the kiosk technology, and over 25 L.A. area shelter charter participants. Each kiosk will ultimately be supported by individual and corporate sponsors. Visit www.pet smartcharities.org or www.pet-ark.com for more information.

Linda Blair and guest try out the new kiosk

Petsmart Charities Adoption Kiosk Program Los Angeles Area Animal Welfare Partners County of Los Angeles

Other Regional Cities

AGOURA (818) 991-0071

BURBANK (818) 238-3340

BALDWIN PARK (626) 962-3577

LONG BEACH (562) 570-7387

CARSON/GARDENA (310) 523-9566

SANTA MONICA ANIMAL SHELTER (310) 450-6179

CASTAIC (805) 257-3191

SOUTHEAST AREA ANIMAL CONTROL (562) 803-3301

DOWNEY (562) 940-8888 LANCASTER (805) 940-4190

ORANGE COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL (714) 935-6848

For locations in the city of LA call: (888) 4LAPET1

LOS ANGELES marketplace

Mobile PET SPA

“...THE benefits of an all raw food diet...”

Convenient, professional quality grooming...right to your home!

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The Spirit of Flower Essences • Compassionate Care • Telephone Sessions • Flower Essence Blends • Distance Energy Healing

Donna Strong

www.floralspirit.com 714-235-7346 donna@artwindows.com animal wellness – los angeles & region

xiii

LOS ANGELES marketplace

Health Mutts Gourmet Pet Bakery & Boutique

Healthy & Tasty!

* Paw lickin’ gourmet dog cookies in four great flavors * People quality ingredients, no salt, sugar or preservatives * Gift baskets for every occasion, including Pet Loss Sympathy baskets

www.healthmutts .com

559-433-6979 1144 E. Champlain Dr. #107, Fresno, CA 93720

KOZYKATZ AND DOGZ Pet Sitting Services Professional Pet Care

MEMBER THE SOUTHLAND

Daily Visits / Overnight Stays / Dog Walking Fully Insured / Bonded • Certified In Pet CPR / First Aid Owner MARION WAGSTAFF

Ph 818-712-0440

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animal wellness – los angeles & region

Email kozypetz@yahoo.com www.kozykatzanddogz.com

LOS ANGELES marketplace

Accessories for you & your dog Fun fashions, angel charms, collars, and doggy toys for your canine. We even have purses for doggy moms and much more!

If you live in the L.A. area, contact us for private pooch parties in your home.

See you there!

SPECIAL OFFER!

Bow Wow Bandanas in assorted springtime colors & patterns ONLY $5!

818-789-8479 • a100pct.angel@sbcglobal.net • www.100pctangel.com

Pet Channel

“Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge...”

Understand your pet’s

JANE ELLEN PLOTKIN, MFT

psychology, including ways to: • Repair problem behaviors • Dissolve difficult emotions • Extend communication • Learn about their past • Understand their life dreams Jane Ellen Plotkin is a pet psychologist, communicator and channel. To make an appointment — in person or by phone, call (310) 315-1885 or email her at: janeellenplotkin@earthlink.net

Individual Cremation Cemetery Burial Home Euthanasia Pre-Need Services Counselling Referrals Fine Products at Reasonable Prices Serving: West Los Angeles, South Bay and the San Fernando Valley

2554 Lincoln Blvd., PMB 325 Marina del Rey, CA 90291

24/7 on-call services

(310) 313-2108 animal wellness – los angeles & region

xv

LOS ANGELES marketplace Start fresh with Fresh Pet club For more info please visit us www.freshpetclub.com

Buy AVON Products to benefit your favorite animal charity!

Shop online and 10% of your order will be donated to the charity of your choice.

For more information, visit

www.andreaforanimals.com or call Andrea Kim at 312-731-2160

AV O N

100% satisfaction guarantee.

distribute magazines • advertise • submit stories Become a part of the animal wellness movement and help educate your friends and family on health and wellness issues for animals.

contact: Becky Starr Western Regional Manager Tel: 213-793-1867 Fax: 818-385-0949 bstarr@animalwellnessmagazine.com

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animal wellness – los angeles & region

animalwellness To advertise in the Atlanta section of Animal Wellness Magazine, call toll-free: 866-764-1212 sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com

ATLANTA

reg

i

on

safely “dog days”

How to exercise during the

of summer Photo: Samantha Fogg

In the summer in Atlanta, it is not easy to get sufficient exercise, especially if you are a fur-covered dog.

Despite the challenges, though, dogs do need exercise during the summer. Obesity puts a strain on a dog’s organs and joints, causing breakdown to occur, and being out of shape predisposes your four-legged friends to injuries.

by Dr. Michelle Tilghman, DVM, CVA, CCRP, and Samantha Fogg Fortunately, swimming is not only a great way to cool off, it’s excellent exercise for your dog. Swimming is a non-weight bearing sport, which is kinder to your dog’s joints than land-based activities.

When swimming your dog, keep the following in mind: • Choose a location where your dog is allowed to swim, and also where the water is safe. If you opt to swim your dog in a pool, teach your dog where the exit is located and how to exit the pool, before doing anything else.

• Supervise your dog whenever he is swimming.

• If your dog is on leash, use a floating leash so that your dog is less likely to get tangled.

• Provide plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink.

• Monitor your dog. Some dogs love swimming so much that they’ll keep swimming long after they should have stopped.

Underwater treadmills are a wonderful way to keep your dog fit when you don’t have access to a pool and it is hard to get outside. Walking in water is harder than walking on land because the water provides resistance, so your dog can get more of a workout in the same amount of time. Located indoors, in a temperature-controlled environment, an underwater treadmill will appeal to your dog on even the hottest summer days. If your dog is not a water dog, don’t worry. Many dogs who don’t care for swimming often enjoy a walk on an underwater treadmill.

If you are exercising your dog on land this summer, keep the following things in mind: • Pavement can be HOT. A good rule of thumb – if you wouldn’t want to walk on it without shoes, your dog shouldn’t walk on it. Hot pavement can cause burns and blisters on your dog’s paws.

• Dogs can get dehydrated. Bring plenty of water with you for your dog to drink when you go on walks.

• Dogs who have a lot of hair, or who have very short noses, will have the hardest time dealing with the heat.

• Do not shave your entire dog. You increase the risk of sunburn, and remove the dog’s natural insulation. For very hairy dogs, you may want to consider shaving only their bellies.

• When exercising your dog on land, do it early in the morning or late at night to avoid the worst of the heat. But beware – even these times of day can be very hot.

• Buy your dog a child’s plastic wading pool to relax and cool off in on a hot day, or after a walk. If possible, locate it in the shade, and remember to change the water frequently throughout the summer.

Dr. Michelle Tilghman and Samantha Fogg are with the Loving Touch Animal Center in Stone Mountain, GA. The center is a full service Integrative Veterinary Hospital that offers both natural and traditional medical options for your animal

.

animal wellness – atlanta region

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• FREE delivery • ii

animal wellness – atlanta region

Why two Atlanta women want to do your

“dirty work” Dirty Work™, Atlanta’s professional pooper scoopers, wants to take over the job of cleaning up after Atlanta pets.

Erin Erman and business partner Cara Brown grew tired of being office bound with their IT jobs and began looking around for a business that would combine old-fashioned customer service, their love of animals, helping the community, and the great outdoors. In July 1998, they became “entre-manures” and now service residential yards, hotels, condos, apartments, and even some shopping centers in 15 counties throughout the metro Atlanta area. While scooping doggie doo wouldn’t be everyone’s choice for employment, the partners have turned their idea into a successful enterprise.

Dirty Work™ usually visits a home once or twice a week. Using plastic-bag-covered scoopers and wearing high-topped boots and chemical-resistant gloves, they clean the yard, then double-bag the residue, spray it with the EPA’s only approved disinfectant to kill the parvo virus, and leave the property poop free.

You

can learn more by visiting www.AtlantaPooperScooper.com.

As seen on TBS’ Movie & a Makeover

CBS’s, Living it Up! With Ali & Jack ORIGINAL

Cover of the Atlanta Journal Constitution

Fox 5’s, Good Day Atlanta

ABC’s, Extreme Home Makeover

Artist: Yvonne Miller

Specializing in Pop Art Pet Portraits painted from a photo Atlanta Native Artist with over 5 years experience Commissions welcome

www.fourfootedart.com • Yvonne@fourfootedart.com • Studio: 404-610-0358 animal wellness – atlanta region

iii

Now traffic, travel and

by Javier Gonzalez

Airport Park’N Bark Pet Resort & Doggie Daycare

“A higher level of pet care” BOARDING • BATHING • DAY CARE Conveniently located near Hartsfield-Jackson Airport FREE PARKING at Park N’Ticket Retail all natural food!

CONVENIENT HOURS: 6am-10pm or ANYTIME by appointment 365 days/yr!

678-278-0137

www.airportparknbark.com

L

iving in Atlanta, it doesn’t take long before you realize that traffic is a problem. Forget about rush-hour traffic, which gives Atlanta one of the top rankings in the USA for longest commute time. Even a minor accident can cause an hour’s delay on any highway in any direction from south of the perimeter to north of the perimeter, and everywhere in between.

Boasting the world’s busiest airport and the home of many large corporations, the people in Georgia are road “rode”! This is what you endure if you live and work here, but what do you do if you have a pet waiting for you at home?

Many people have discovered the only answer to this question is to FIND HELP!

Atlanta offers scores of pet-related services Boarding facilities, day cares and spas, pet walkers and pet sitters; you name it and Atlanta has you covered with more than a hundred helpful services for animals. From dogs and cats, to reptiles and birds, people love their animal companions -- and they want to ensure that when they can’t make it home, their pets are tended and happy. So where do you start?

Some of Atlanta’s most notable services include the Georgia Pet

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animal wellness – atlanta region

pets can mix

To locate a pet sitter in your area, visit us at: www.georgiapetsitters.com “The Most Trusted Pet Care Professionals in Georgia”

Sitters Association, where you can locate a pet sitter within your immediate area by going to their website (www.georgiapetsi tters.com) and typing in your zip code.

The Pet Set and Airport Park-N-Bark each offer pet resort services. The Pet Set is conveniently located off Highway 85 on Briarcliff Road and you’ll find the Airport Park-N-Bark near the airport just off Camp Creek Parkway. You even get free parking when you board your pet at the Airport Park-N-Bark.

Atlanta offers a taxi service for pets too. The Pet Taxi provides transportation at those critical moments when you are working and cannot take your pet to the vet or another appointment.

So, next time you are feeling guilty about not “being there” for your pet, look up one of the many services available in Atlanta (Animal Wellness Magazine is a good resource!) and give them a try. You’ll both be happier for it! animal wellness – atlanta region

vii

ATLANTA REGION SHELTER REFERENCE

ATLANTA EVENTS 2005 Summer Happy Hour Series Benefits the Atlanta Humane Society Three happy hour events held at different venues. Visit www.atlantahumane.org or call (404) 875-2600 ext. 226 for more details

Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends 678-318-1886 www.AARFatlanta.org

Cobb County Humane Society 770-428-5678 www.humanecobb.org

PAWS Atlanta 770-593-1155 www.pawsatlanta.org

Atlanta Canine Adoption Project 678-233-6039 www.acap.petfinder.com

Fulton County Animal Services 404-794-0358 www.fultonanimalservices.com

Pet Orphans Rescue Referrals www.petorphans.com Second Chance Animal Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Atlanta Humane Society 404-875-2600 www.atlhumane.org

Good Mews Animal Foundation 770-499-2287 www.goodmews.org

Atlanta Pet Rescue & Adoption 770-351-7377 www.atlantapetrescue.org

Good Shepherd Humane Society 770-463-5513 www.thegoodshepherdhumanesociety.com The Doghouse Rescue & Adoption 404-325-9303 Gwinnett County Humane Society www.thedoghouserescue.org 770-798-7711 www.gwinnetthumane.com Pets Are Loving Support (PALS) 404-876-PALS Kanine Kids www.palsatlanta.org www.kaninekids.com

AtlantaPets.org www.atlantapets.org Atlanta Animal Alliance Program 404-220-0603

Small Dog Rescue 404-705-PAWS www.smalldoghumane.org

Red Bandanna Norcross Location All Dog & Cat Rescue Angels Charity Dog Wash. Saturday, July 16th 2005 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please call (678) 966-0523 for more details

Red Bandanna Suwanee Location Pet Adoptions the 1st and 2nd Saturday of each month. July 9th August 6th August 13th. Please call (678) 376-6130 for more details Wag Your Tail Rummage Sale Benefits Gwinnett Humane Society Saturday, July 23rd 2005. 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information call (770) 798-7711

PAWS for a Cause Silent Auction & Buffet Benefits PAWS Atlanta. Saturday, July 30th 2005. For more information & Tickets call (770) 593-1155

Red Bandanna Suwanee Location Adult Cat Adoptions every week.

Red Bandanna Norcross Location Weimaraner/Vizsla Rescue Charity Dog Wash. Saturday, August 13th 2005. 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information call (678) 966-0523 Hogs for Dogs Ride & Festival Stone Mountain Harley Davidson Saturday, August 20th 2005 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For more information call (770) 798-7711

“Animal Land Pet Movers, the way we treat pets is moving.”

• • • •

door-to-door service domestic and international fully bonded and insured licensed by the USDA

877.379.8625 www.petmovers.com

Dr. Kimberly Stagmeier Holistic Veterinary Medicine & Surgery 418 North Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30004

770-754-1255 w w w. a n i m a l - we l l n e s s - c e n t e r. c o m

ATLANTA REGIONAL MANAGER WANTED! Become a part of the animal wellness team.

Work full or part-time from your home

Please send resume to: tim@redstonemediagroup.com or for more information call: 866-764-1212

managing the Atlanta area ad sales, editorial and distribution program.

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animal wellness – atlanta region

www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com