V9I2 (Apr/May 2007) by Redstone Media Group

animal Living pawsitive!

™

wellness For a long, healthy life!

ways to make

fleas flee – without chemicals!

The Truth about

heartworm

Solving

ear

Is Fido

fearful? How you can help

problems

Tub tips

How to grow a 22-year-old cat

Animal

communication

Top 10 questions answered

What to do about

tear stains

Tackling

TICKS

APRIL/MAY Display until May. 20, 2007

$5.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2

www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

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animal wellness

contents 57

60 50

features 20

Getting to the heart of heartworm Does he really need preventative medication?

4 things your groomer wished you knew Brushing up on hair care

animal wellness

Now hear this! Common ear problems in dogs and cats

Tackling ticks Getting a handle on these bothersome blood-suckers

40 Top 7 ways to

make fleas flee Taking the itch out is easier than you think

46 Disc dog is a

high-flying event This exciting canine sport is gaining in popularity

Photo courtesy of Skyhoundz

Click on this icon to visit featured links

50 Hairballs... yuck!

How to prevent those "kitty landmines"

52 Is Fido fearful?

Acupressure can help

57 No more tear stains What to do about this "unsightly" condition

60 Bath time!

Tub tips for you and your canine companion

64 Mountain View is a 75 How to grow a true ark among conservation centers Giving endangered species a helping hand

70 "Free to a

22-year-old cat The secret to extending kitty's nine lives

96 Enter our

Good Home"

Amazing Animals Photo Contest!

How a rescued puppy inspired a feature film on animal homelessness

Send us your best shots and you could win!

72 Raising a stink

Remove the smell of skunk, naturally

ONTARIO REGIONAL SECTION

animal wellness

contents Volume 9 Issue 2

columns 14

Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Canadian Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Yvonne Hollandy Graphic Designer: Stephanie Wright Cover Photography: Lora Brudniak Illustration: Leanne Rosborough

90 95 Book reviews

Yakkity yak

Animal passages

28 Dr. Martin Goldstein 81 Animal communication

106 The tail end

departments 8 Editorial

What’s gnu?

12 Mail bag

Ad spots

32 Product picks

103

Events calendar

77 Wellness

104

Classifieds

105

AWM bulletin board

resource guide

our cover: Photo: Lora Brudniak

Andrew is the canine companion of our Western Regional Sales Manager Becky Starr, who rescued him as a puppy when his former people refused the surgery he needed after tearing a cruciate ligament. Now, thanks to a successful operation and holistic therapies including acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, and a raw meat and veggie diet, this “big cuddle bug” is a healthy, happy four-year-old. He loves boating and sleeping with his favorite toy, a Gund stuffed bear.

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2007. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: March, 2007

Columnists & Contributing Writers Michelle Bernard Judy Crozier Martin Goldstein, DVM Anthony Gollner Cathy Kingery Gail MacMillan Shawn Messonnier, DVM Susan Neal Eric L. Nelson, MS, MA Mark Newkirk, VMD Amy Snow Peggy Swager Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis Sharon Zito, DVM Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager Lesia Wright Information Services Director Vaughan King Business Coordinator Samantha Saxena Administrative Assistant Joanne Rockwood 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: submission@animalwellnessmagazine.com. National 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 Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue is $22.95 in the U.S. and $24.95 in Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. 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. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products or services advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues. Dealer Inquiries Welcome: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

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editorial Be prepared for pests It goes without saying – when you live with a dog or cat, other critter experiences are sure to follow. Over the years, our animals have had their fair share of these experiences – run-ins with raccoons, problems with porcupines, chasing (and occasionally catching) chipmunks. But two of the most troublesome encounters we all endured had to do with a senile skunk and a dozen fleas. The skunk in question actually dug under our fence one night and was strolling around in our backyard when I unsuspectingly let one of the dogs out. You can guess what happened next. Fortunately, being a rather tall husky, Shayla received the skunk’s full load smack in the middle of her chest instead of her eyes. I could smell the encounter from inside the house. By the time I got outside, Shayla had cornered the skunk under the deck. The acrid, penetrating smell hung in the air like a lead curtain. We dragged our reeking dog to the bathtub where my husband hosed her down. Luckily, we had some natural products on hand to help us deal with the problem, and after two rounds of that and a shampoo, she was good to go. Our second incident with critters took a little longer to resolve. Fleas are nasty creatures and we had managed to avoid them for many years by keeping our animals’ immune systems strong. But one summer, one of the dogs acquired a couple at a sandy beach and, being the sharing type, decided to pass them along to her canine sister. The cat never did pick them up. Fortunately, our dogs weren’t allergic (our childhood dog suffered terribly with even one flea) but I wanted these nasty insects out of my house ASAP. I clearly didn’t want to use conventional flea products on my furry friends so we started a natural regimen, which included bathing the dogs every week, vacuuming regularly (not my favorite pastime), and natural flea sprays and powders. After a few weeks, we had greatly decimated the population. As a final precaution, just before we left for a short vacation, my husband opened the windows and carefully sprayed a conventional flea product around the baseboards in part of the house. We never saw another flea. I’m sure you all have similar stories about unwanted pests so I hope you’ll find this issue of Animal Wellness – which deals with ticks and heartworm as well as fleas and skunks -- useful as well as interesting. When it comes to animals, prevention is crucial, but it pays to be prepared too! Live well,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

animal wellness

contributors

Susan Neal has recently retired from the grooming profession after owning and operating a boarding, grooming and pet sitting facility for 15 years. She is also the author of the award-winning book Without Regret: A Handbook for Owners of Canine Amputees. On page 57, Susan tells you how to get rid of unsightly tear stains.

Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He is also the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s program, Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet, on Sirius Satellite Radio. His veterinary practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (www.petcarenaturally.com), is located in Plano, Texas. In this issue, Shawn talks about ear problems in dogs and cats– see page 32.

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 founded Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute (www.animalacupressure.com), which offers Practitioner Certificate training programs worldwide, plus books, meridian charts, and videos. Turn to page 52 for their article on how acupressure can help timid or fearful dogs.

animal wellness

Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk

practices in the New Jersey area. At age 14, he started at Margate Animal Hospital cleaning cages and mopping the floors. Now he owns the place! He practiced conventional medicine for 15 years, then ventured into the realm of alternative medicine after realizing “there must be another way” to treat chronically ill patients. Now, his practice is 50% alternative medicine. His special interest is with cancer patients. He recently opened another practice where rehabilitation and physical therapy are his special talents. He talks about ticks on page 36.

Michelle Bernard, author of Raising Cats Naturally, has spent over a decade researching natural health for cats. A freelance writer who breeds American shorthairs, she has kept her own cats vibrantly healthy since 1993 using a raw meat diet, homeopathy, and plain common sense. Michelle is renowned for her sound approach to rearing cats and her writing on many aspects of holistic cat care. She offers nutritional and natural health consultations from her home in North Carolina. Turn to page 50 for her advice on what to do about hairballs.

Lora Brudniak is a photographer who lives in Los Angeles with her canine companion, Booh. Her lifelong love of animals inspired her to start several dog-related businesses, including photography. She regularly donates her photography services to various auctions and fund raisers such as PAWS-LA Pet Art and Much Love Animal Rescue. www.doggiestylephotography.com

Peggy Swager has written on health and training

Veterinarian Dr. Sharon Zito owns Rosecrans Pet Hospital in San Diego, California. She is an emergency medicine specialist, and often volunteers her time with veterinary relief organizations. She lives with her husband Rick, as well as nine dogs, seven cats, and three horses on a ranch in eastern San Diego County.

Eric Nelson has been an adjunct professor at National University since 1998. He has trained dogs semi-professionally for ten years. Eric is also employed full time as a police officer. He lives in northern California with Kenja (a Dutch shepherd) and Roger (a Visla/Lab mix). In this issue (page 90), Sharon and Eric share their guidelines for helping you decide when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to euthanize.

topics for a variety of publications. In 2002, she won the DWAA award for Best Training Article. She draws on her BS in biology and her BA in chemistry when tackling health subjects. For her article on four things every groomer wished you knew, see page 25.

Anthony Gollner

is the Vice President and co-formulator of his family-owned manufacturing company, Carina Organics Inc. in North Vancouver. Anthony is an expert and modern pioneer in using Botanical Tree Essence to formulate therapeutic products. He shares his life with his dog, Moka, whose experiences with a skunk inspired him to write an article about natural odor-removing methods (page 72).

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mail bag

Dear Animal Wellness Magazine:

I have a small fruit farm in Eastern Thailand where I live. I have four “Mah Thai Rahng-Ahn” dogs, known by the English name of Thai Ridgebacks. My good friend Marlynn in San Francisco sends me Animal Wellness Magazine regularly. I’m amazed at the products available for pet care. It would be wonderful if your advertisers would consider entering the export market. Many Asians now spend nearly as much, or more, on their pets than North Americans. Aside from the unwanted “temple” or “soi” (street) dogs, those who do keep dogs or cats as pets have money to spend on them, and for many, no product is too expensive. I was impressed with your FebruaryMarch edition, dealing with tooth protection for dogs. I’m tired of tackling my four big dogs for their semi-annual trips to the local vet.

gave him one dose of the chemo pill “CNNC” along with the drugs Piroxicam and Tagamet. After a week, my dog got so sick. He did not eat for nine days and had to be hospitalized. Due to this reaction, I was unable to use the nutrients that our holistic vet had prescribed. My little dog died one month after taking the chemo. The Piroxicam had also caused bleeding in the intestines. I knew that my dog could not take Rimadyl and had informed the oncologist of this. I did not know that the Prioxicam, which is supposed to be an anti-cancer drug, could also cause bleeding. The whole thing was a disaster and I wish I could turn back the clock and never mess with any of this. It is not true that animals do not get sick the way people do. Some dogs get as sick as a human.

Jack Gilead, Prachin Buri, Thailand

Gloria Simon, Cincinnati, OH

Editor’s Note: It’s always wonderful to hear from readers on the other side of the world. We’re actually working with an on-line distributor of high quality pet products in Japan to bring Animal Wellness to Asia. Stay tuned for more on that!

Editor’s note: Our sincerest condolences on the loss of your beloved dog. We passed your concerns along to Dr. Messonnier, who responds: “I am truly sorry to hear of your experience. Most animals (compared to people) do not experience any side effects from chemo, and supplements minimize these side effects. Your dog should probably not have received Piroxicam after you informed your vet that he had a history of bleeding with similar drugs.”

I swore I would never give chemo to my dog but when I read “Treating Cancer” by Dr. Shawn Messonnier in your Aug-Sept ’06 issue, I decided to go ahead. My 16-year-old dog had a melanoma and I took him to an oncologist who

Pawsetively Pawfect! ™

Thank you so, so much for caring about the greyhounds. So many animals are abused terribly, and we love you for your efforts. Mark and Felice Shapiro, via email

On behalf of greyhounds everywhere I want to thank you for publishing your article about greyhounds in your magazine (AW Volume 9, Issue 1). Although I live in Manchester, England, I know that the situation in the USA is similar to here regarding the terrible, cruel industry of greyhound racing. Hopefully your article will make more people aware of what is happening

Turn to page 34... 1-877-838-7015 • www.vithealth.com

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we want to hear from you!

so that they will not support racing. John Ratcliffe, Worsley, Manchester, England

Editor’s note: It’s true that many people don’t realize what happens to these wonderful dogs during and after their racing careers. Fortunately, networking organizations such as grey2kusa and greyhound rescues across the U.S. and Canada are working hard to save these animals. Thanks to all the AW readers who have welcomed these big “couch potatoes” into their homes and hearts.

Our indoor cat, Sammy, was stolen five weeks ago. He is chipped and I was under the impression that would greatly improve our chances of recovery. We did what we could to inform everyone of our loss (flyers, posters, canvassing the neighborhood and beyond, newspaper ads, etc). Soon it became apparent that whoever had him would not return him even for the sizable reward we offered. So we decided to lie low and wait for the thief to feel we had abandoned the search, allowing him to take our baby to a vet, where his chip would lead to a reunification with our sunshine. However, I have since learned that vets will not routinely check new animals, unless someone comes in and states that he has found the animal. Those I spoke to had never considered the possibility of someone bringing in a stolen pet until I raised the issue. Chipping our companions should protect them from all eventualities. Thus, vets must be made aware of the fact that thefts do occur and that they should check new patients for chips or tattoos. Andrea Kaluzny, via email

Editor’s Note: We can only imagine how you must feel about Sammy’s disappearance, and are grateful that you took the time to write and make other readers aware of this issue.

Address your letters to: Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to: us: PMB 168 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 can: 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

Are Your

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yakkity yak Cloud greets two of her dolphin friends.

Of dogs and dolphins For the first time ever, a search and rescue dog has joined a team that helps stranded dolphins in Florida. The idea was the brainchild of marine biologist Chris Blankenship, who has worked with bottlenose dolphins for nearly 20 years. Cloud, a two-year-old black Labrador retriever, has been trained to recognize the scent of dolphins. She and Blankenship travel on boats that cruise the shoreline searching for marine incidents and dolphins in distress. Cloud alerts rescue teams to the presence of both live and dead dolphins in much the same way other search dogs locate narcotics and explosives. Once the dolphin has been found, a rescue-support team is radioed to the site for assistance. Funds forÂ the project were provided by the Dolphin & Marine Mammal Research Foundation.

Photo: Bill Sumner Photography

The homeless love animals too Nearly 13% of the American population lived in poverty in 2004, and that number is rising every year. The National Coalition for the Homeless adds that up to 10% of these people have companion animals. Although many are only homeless for relatively short periods, their ability to find affordable housing is complicated by the large number of accommodations that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t accept animals. Many choose to live on the street rather than give up their companions. But a program called Feeding Pets of the Homeless is helping. The program involves veterinarian hospitals and clinics across the country that collect food from their clients and have it taken to local food banks for distribution to the homeless and disadvantaged. www.PetsofHomeless.com

Kitties need ID

Photo: Kirsten Bole

animal wellness

Does your feline friend have ID? If not, read on. The American Veterinary Medical Association recently published some revealing statistics on missing animals, based on research carried out in a city in southwestern Ohio. The researchers found that over 70% of lost dogs were found again, as compared to only 53% of cats. The main reason is that more dogs than cats were licensed and wearing an ID tag. On the flip side, more than half the cats that were recovered returned home on their own, while fewer than one in ten dogs came back unaided.

An education in empathy Why are some children cruel to animals, while others rush to the rescue of a suffering dog or cat? These questions form the theme of the Humane Education Conference on April 20 to 22. Co-sponsored by the ASPCA, the weekend event will be held on the campus of Green Chimneys, a non-profit organization in Putnam County, New York that focuses on animal-assisted therapy for children. The conference will feature a variety of speakers in everything from human psychology to animal behavior. www.greenchimneys.org

Photo: Martin Luckner

Cats can live nine lives! That is, if you keep them indoors. The Wisconsin Humane Society reports that millions of cats are injured or killed each year because their guardians allow them to roam outdoors. Traffic, theft, infectious diseases and attacks from other animals are just some of the hazards that lie in wait for free felines. These few simple tips help ensure your indoor kitty stays happy and healthy: • Spay or neuter her • Feed her a quality diet • Provide her with safe toys and a scratching post or tree • Keep her litter box clean • Make her a window seat, have the window open when weather/ circumstances permit, and consider installing a bird feeder outside.

Flashing Collars & Leashes

Lighted safety collars and leashes for pets

Whenever you go out at night with your pet, please use MTM dog safety collars and leashes. You wouldn’t drive at night without headlights, so please don’t walk at night without MTM Flashing collar and leash. Distributors wanted!

/3 of fatal accidents involving pets occur at night!

www.MTMPetsParadise.com animal wellness

yakkity yak The heat is on Top dog comes from Canada Lab lovers rejoice! After consulting their registration and policyholder records, both the American Kennel Club and Veterinary Pet Insurance have named the Labrador retriever the most popular dog in North America for 2006. But how many people know that this canine favorite originated on this continent? Descended from dogs that European fishermen brought with them when they visited Newfoundland and Labrador’s Grand Banks, today’s Lab can truly call the island his ancestral home. So why were they named Labradors? Researchers at Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland say it’s because British breeders wanted to differentiate them from the Newfoundland dog, another canine Canuck that hails from the area.

animal wellness

It’s the same every summer – no matter how many times people are warned not to leave their canine companions in cars during hot weather, it still happens. But a new California law will help change things. Bill 1806 prohibits people from leaving animals in motor vehicles “under conditions that endanger the health or well-being of an animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death to the animal.” The bill allows law enforcement or animal control officers to break into a vehicle if they can’t find the owner. Those who violate the law will face fines starting at $100; penalties for a second offense run up to $500 and six months in jail.

yakkity yak New legislation for zoos Roadside zoos are notorious for the poor care and living conditions they provide animals. But there’s light at the end of the tunnel, at least in Ontario. Provincial Member of Parliament David Zimmer has introduced new legislation that, if passed, will address the conditions in Ontario’s roadside zoos. Bill 154, The Regulation of Zoos Act, would require all zoos in the province to comply with professional animal welfare and public safety standards, and to ensure that every animal receives proper care and housing. If you live in Ontario, support Bill 154 by contacting your provincial MP. www.zoocheck.ca

Breed discrimination can affect insurance If you have a pit bull or similar type of dog, you’ll already be familiar with the issue of breed discrimination. But did you know it can also affect your ability to purchase homeowners’ insurance? According to the American Kennel Club, the law in most U.S. states permits insurance companies to charge higher premiums or refuse to renew a policy depending on what breed of dog you have. Some people are even being told they’ll be dropped if they don’t give up their dog, even if he has never shown any signs of aggression. For more information, and to find out what your options are, visit www.akc.org/insurance/homeowners_inscenter.cfm.

Photo courtesy of: Zoocheck

animal wellness

yakkity yak Angel’s Gate under attack Located in Fort Salonga, New York, Angel’s Gate Hospice and Rehabilitation Center has been providing a caring home for ill, elderly, and physically challenged animals for 15 years. The center was founded by Susan Marino, a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner and a specialist in many forms of holistic therapy, including TTouch, hydrotherapy and animal communication. Despite their hard work and dedication to the dogs, cats, horses and birds under their care, Susan and her partner Victor have come under attack from locals who have filed a variety of complaints against the center, ranging from zoning violations to too much noise and too many visitors. Angel’s Gate has been under town scrutiny ever since and has endured inspections from the Departments of Health and Public Safety, the Buildings Department, and Animal Control. Although the center was not found to be in violation of any town codes, the investigations and pressures to close continue. You’ll find more details at www.angelsgate.org, as well as an online petition you can sign in support of the center and its animals.

Left: Once quadriplegic, Brutus enjoys the benefits of hydrotherapy. Above: Sampson was born with congenital deformities in his limbs.

Pets EAT! Too The Everything Pet Food Show @

EAT!Vancouver The Everything

Food + Cooking Festival

Here is your chance to check out what’s new in food and nutrition for your pets’ continuing good health! SHOW HOURS Friday, May 25 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm Saturday, May 26 11:00 am to 9:00 pm Sunday, May 27 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Children must be accompanied by adults ADMISSION Adults - $14.00 Child (7 to 14) - $6.00 Child (6 and Under) - Free Seniors (65+) - $12.00

For show info: www.eat-vancouver.com

animal wellness

Official Show Sponsor

The Pets EAT! Too pet food show is back again at EAT! Vancouver on May 25, 26 and 27, 2007 at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, British Columbia. A dedicated Pavilion, Pets EAT! Too is one of the major components of the main exhibit floor of Canada’s second largest consumer food event. Come, watch and learn health tips from the experts. Featuring pet health and nutrition presentations by noted pet nutrition experts. EAT! VANCOUVER ADMISSION INCLUDES ACCESS TO: Pets EAT! Too Pavilion EAT! Vancouver Exhibit Floor (Hundreds of exhibits) Food Network Celebrity Cooking Stage Wine, Beer Tasting Pavilion Bite of Vancouver Restaurant Pavilion Canadian BBQ & Chili Competitions Chocolate & Culinary Competitions Iron Chef Competition For exhibitor information please email: info@eat-vancouver.com

Get Raw! Feed your pet the way nature intended.

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Varieties include Chicken+Turkey, Beef, Lamb, Venison, Rabbit, & Organic Chicken. Raw Diet product forms include Patties, Medallions, & Chubs. Also try our Kibble, Cans, Freeze Dried, & Treats.

To ﬁnd a store near you, visit www.naturesvariety.com animal wellness

Getting

to the heart of

heartworm Bailey is a beagle who lives in the country. He spends a lot of time outdoors, sleeps in his doghouse at night during the summer, and enjoys going for walks in the woods with his guardians. His favorite activity is flushing ducks from the marshy waters bordering his family’s property. Tinker, meanwhile, is a Maltese who shares her life with an apartment-dwelling businesswoman in the city. Apart from daily walks around the block, she spends most of her time inside, 14 floors above the city streets. Each spring, Bailey and Tinker are prescribed a course of preventative heartworm medication. Yet given Tinker’s urban environment and limited access to the outdoors, her chances of being bitten by a mosquito are far lower than Bailey’s. Does she really need this medication?

animal wellness

How does heartworm develop? Heartworm is a cyclic disease. It’s caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis that develops insides mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a dog, it deposits the heartworm larvae under the skin. From there, they travel through the blood to the animal’s heart and mature into adult heartworms. These worms reproduce and release pre-larvae, called microfilaria, back into the bloodstream. The microfilaria can’t develop inside the dog, but are ingested by other mosquitoes that bite him, becoming infective and thus making it easy for heartworm to be passed from animal to animal.

The disease can be asymptomatic Because the adult worms live in the

by Charlotte Walker

heart and can also affect the lungs, heartworm can cause symptoms such as a soft, dry cough, labored or rapid breathing, lethargy, and poor exercise tolerance. The dog may also lose weight. In severe cases, heartworm can lead to anorexia, emaciation and congestive heart failure. The problem is, fewer than 15% of infected dogs show any signs of illness until the disease is advanced. That’s why vets recommend you take your dog in every spring for a simple blood test to check for the disease; in regions where winters are mild and/or heartworm is endemic, it’s a good idea to have him tested every six months.

The problem with preventatives If the blood test comes back negative, a course of preventative medication is

What’s his risk? Some animals are more at risk for heartworm than others. This questionnaire will help you determine whether or not your companion should receive preventative medication.

Photo: Stephanie Bongers

usually prescribed. These include: Diethylcarbamazine – given daily; prevents development of microfilaria Ivermectin (Heartguard) – given monthly; kills microfilaria Selamectin (Revolution) – topical medication; also controls fleas and mites Milbemycin oxime (Interceptor) – given monthly; kills microfilaria While these preventatives protect against heartworm, they’re also very powerful chemicals that can cause side effects and put a significant toxic burden on your animal. Some vets suspect there may be a connection between these medications and lipomas, while others worry that their longterm use could contribute to cancer and liver disease. They should really only be used in cases where the dog’s risk of contracting heartworm is high. Before going ahead, first assess your dog’s risk to find out whether it’s really necessary (see sidebar). Cont'd next pg.

Yes

Is there a high incidence of heartworm in your area?* Does your animal get a heartworm blood test every year?

Do you live near a swampy area? Do you live on a farm? Does your animal have short hair or lots of exposed skin?

Does he sleep outside at night? Do you apply a natural bug repellent to your dog during bug season?

Score: 19-33

Your animal is most likely at low risk for heartworm. He probably doesn’t need preventative medication.

Score: 11-18

There is some risk of your animal being infected. Keep him indoors at night and apply natural bug repellent to your dog when he’s outside.

Score: 0-10

Your animal is likely at high risk for heartworm. Do everything you can to protect him from mosquito bites and talk to your vet about a preventative program. *Heartworm has been found just about everywhere in the U.S. and Canada, but it’s especially prevalent in the southeastern regions of the continent. In the States, the most cases are found along the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, as well as along the Gulf coast and into Louisiana. Southwestern Ontario accounts for around 90% of all heartworm cases in Canada, but the disease is also found in other provinces, notably southern Quebec, southern Manitoba and B.C.’s Okanagan Valley. animal wellness

Can cats get heartworm?

Heartworm used to be considered primarily a canine disease. But cats also get it, though more rarely. According to the American Heartworm Society, virtually all dogs exposed to heartworm larvae become infected to some extent; the risk of disease in cats, meanwhile, ranges from 60% to 90%. However, even a few worms can cause a more severe reaction in cats than in dogs. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, vomiting, gagging, loss of appetite and weight. In severe cases, lung obstruction, collapse, and death can occur. Heartworm is also a little more challenging to diagnose and treat in cats than it is in dogs. Feline versions of Heartguard and Interceptor are available for prevention, but again, it’s important to carefully assess your cat’s risk of getting heartworm before going ahead with these medications.

Protecting him naturally

If your dog is strong, he’ll be less likely to be affected by heartworm, even if he’s bitten by an infected mosquito. He’ll be able to limit the infection, develop immunity, and heal himself. One of the best lines of defense, therefore, is to make sure he’s as healthy as possible:

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Feed a high quality diet Don’t over-vaccinate Provide regular exercise Minimize stress

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animal wellness

Make sure his environment is healthy and free of toxins Use natural bug repellent – mix a few drops of tea tree, citrus or rosemary oil with water and spray your dog’s coat Supplement his diet with a B-vitamin complex Add a little fresh garlic to your dog's food Keep him indoors at night, and at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are out in force You might also ask your vet about heartworm nosodes. Made from harmless diseased material, these homeopathic preparations may help by stimulating your dog’s immune system to mount a defense, and could assist him in fighting off a real infection later. Heartworm is admittedly a scary disease, but it isn’t always necessary to resort to chemical preventatives. Using the two-pronged approach of researching your dog’s true risk of infection, while keeping him in good overall health, can help protect him.

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animal wellness

4 things your groomer

wished

you knew by Peggy Swager

A shiny coat is the trademark of a healthy dog or cat. But if his coat is not kept groomed, even an animal who has received a nod of good health from the veterinarian can develop major problems. “There are several things groomers wished all dog and cat owners knew,” says grooming expert Linda Bollinger. “They not only help keep your companion healthier, but also make the experience more positive.”

1. Feed the right food and use the right shampoo

Linda Bollinger with Lucky.

A groomer’s hands massage the coat while shampooing, giving her an opportunity to find bumps and lumps a veterinarian may miss. She will also look over the skin and coat for problems. “Some of the issues I see are dry, brittle, or dull coats,”

says Linda. This can reflect a poor quality diet, or a soap residue from the animal’s last bath at home. It’s important to feed your animal a high quality diet without chemical additives, many of which can cause skin and hair problems. In addition, using the wrong shampoo or conditioner sometimes causes a dull coat. Human products are not meant for dogs and cats. When selecting a shampoo and conditioner, keep in mind that different coat types often need specialized products. Consult with a holistic groomer for help choosing the right ones for your animal.

2. Don’t neglect mats

How often an animal needs to be groomed can vary widely. Cats and

dogs with longer coats need grooming more often because of their tendency to develop mats, which can cause a lot of issues. Here are some ways to prevent the problem: • Brush longer-haired animals between visits to the groomer. A critical time is when the animal’s coat is wet; for example, when he comes in after a walk in damp weather. Mats can form when the hair is wet because it becomes pliable and stretchy; when the coat dries, it shrinks and tangles.

• To help keep down mats, you need to do more than a light brushing. The brush or comb needs to start at the animal wellness

skin and be gently pulled to the ends of the hair. • Those who groom at home sometimes miss areas where mats congregate. Common problem areas include the leg pits, the animal’s belly, behind the ears, and between the back legs.

3. Introduce him to your groomer early

ÃÊ

À Simply depositing your animal on a groomer’s doorstep can traumatize him. Both dogs and cats need to be introduced gradually to the groomer, even before you decide you need her services. The best time to start the introduction is when the animal is young. Bring him in for the first time

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4. Get him used to having his paws handled

Photo provided by Sally Sizer

• Don’t choose to ignore mats. Skin problems can occur underneath, where trapped moisture breeds bacteria and provides a perfect reisdence for bugs. One of the worst things you can do is just take the animal to the groomer once or twice a year rather than keep up with the mats yourself. “There are several problems with this,” says Linda. “First off, a groomer cannot always shave a badly matted dog or cat. Even if she can get the shaver down to the skin, the process is often painful, because unexposed skin underneath the mat is now very sensitive.” Sometimes the groomer must use a surgical blade, and risks nicking the animal. When working with badly matted animals, clipper burns and irritated skin are common. “I often find burrs or sores that have festered in matted areas,” adds Linda. “A few times I have even discovered candy embedded in the fur.”

at about three months of age. Although dogs and cats typically don’t need to be clipped or groomed this young, it’s a good time to introduce them to the noise and vibration of the clippers. And while no animal likes being left in a strange place by his guardian, by starting young you give him a chance to get used to the idea of going to the groomer and feeling comfortable with the process. Most groomers offer this service at a reduced “puppy” rate.

Many animals hate to have their nails clipped. Taking them to the groomer to have it done doesn’t change their dread. Dogs and cats need to be worked into the concept. Once again, the best time to begin training is when the animal is young. A good technique is to take hold of his paw and quickly offer a treat, such as a piece of hard cheese or chewy meat, while you hold onto his foot for a moment. Once he learns to accept this, start playing with his toes. Practice holding onto the paw for longer periods of time, and be sure to offer plenty of rewards. Once he fully accepts this handling, you can start snipping one or two nails at a time. By working slowly up to the task, the animal learns to accept nail trimming instead of fighting it. By training your dog or cat to accept grooming, and by keeping up with the job between visits, you help ensure a healthier companion, prevent extra charges at the groomer’s, and make the experience easier and more enjoyable for everyone, both animal and human.

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animal wellness

holistic veterinary advice talking with dr. martin goldstein Dr. Marty Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for 30 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. Send your

Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, Dr. Marty responds to questions only. We regret he cannot respond to every question.

questions for

e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com in his column

We adopted an 11-year-old male Shih Tzu two years ago. He has had a few health problems: ongoing ear infections, eczema, removal of a large skin cancer on his shoulder, an abscess at the site of his yearly heartworm injection, and other things. We know the signs of ear infections and administer antibiotic drops. We also have the eczema under control with the aid of a cortisone lotion. He is a solid 22 pounds and seems healthy and happy. Lately, he has been regurgitating food and water for a day here and there. On those days, he refuses to eat. He does not act sick and remains alert and happy. I thought maybe he has a hairball, due mainly to his constant licking and chewing. I read not to administer petroleum-based oil as a laxative. What sort of oil or other laxative would you recommend? Would cod liver oil work?

My first choice for dogs is salmon oil, but sesame, flax, cod liver, and even a little olive oil will also do. The herb slippery elm has proven very effective as a natural laxative that helps promote good intestinal function. I would also advise a major re-evaluation of the total approach to your dog’s health care, from the heartworm injections to the use of drugs, and move in a direction more supportive of his underlying state of health and immune system.

I have two cats, not related but with similar symptoms. Malcolm was diagnosed with IBD about three years ago, and was on prednisone for about a year. I was concerned about him being on medication and wanted

animal wellness

to try to control his IBD through diet. I put both cats on a homemade duck and potato diet. Since then, both their blood tests have showed elevated creatinine levels. Neither has an elevated BUN level, nor are they showing any symptoms of kidney disease. I have been to several vets to try to find out what could be causing this; the cats have both had kidney ultrasounds and blood pressure tests, but there is no explanation. I believe it may be related to the food, since both cats have only had abnormal results since starting the homemade diet. Recently, both have also developed elevated ALT levels and low lymphocyte counts. In all cases, their results are almost identical. The vets all agree this is odd, but none can offer any explanation other than “chronic renal failure”. Malcolm’s IBD has been under control without meds for the past two years on the homemade diet, but I cannot give him any other food as it causes the IBD to flare up. I am suspicious that the homemade diet may be causing these abnormal results (some missing nutrient perhaps). Do you have any ideas?

If you came to my practice, the first thing I would do is to review your cats’ vaccination histories. I have discovered reference to the causation of irritable bowel syndrome in humans and have witnessed a similarity in many cases of IBD in dogs and cats. Also, both Purdue and Colorado veterinary schools have reported that the primary mechanism leading to chronic renal failure in cats is due to autoantibodies forming on the feline kidney tissue (this is in response to the kidney tissue protein used to grow the vaccines on). It is also known that liver enzymes can elevate significantly post-vaccination. Yes, true kidney disease/failure should show elevations in BUN and phosphorus as well as creatinine. In our practice, we

also look at the source of the creatinine (a by-product of muscle metabolism) to see how metabolic dysfunction plays a role in enhancing its excessive production and build-up. We would therefore select supplements like pituitary, gonadal, liver and adrenal glandulars, while also using the obvious kidney support.

My five-year-old Labrador/golden retriever mix is my seeing eye dog. Last August she had a blood test. All was normal with the following exception: calcium/phosphorus ratio 47. The normal is between 0 and 33. Her calcium is 9.8 and her phosphorus is 2.4. What does this high ratio mean? I read it could mean future kidney failure. What can I do to prevent any problems?

The first thing I would do is get her re-tested at least one more time. Individual blood results can noticeably fluctuate daily and you’d be surprised how different that ratio could look next day. What’s making that ratio of 47 appear high is a low phosphorus, which is one of the three blood values that would actually start to elevate with kidney problems. Metabolically, intestinal congestion can lower the phosphorus. If this value continues to be low, add a good digestive enzyme like Prozyme to her diet. I wouldn’t worry about the correlation of this value to the kidneys, especially when the BUN and creatinine are normal.

My ten-year-old cat suddenly developed chronic constipation last winter. Boo was x-rayed and they showed he was backed up all the way. Ever since, he has been back and forth to the vet for an occasional enema. He is on lactulose, 2cc, two times a day but the problem continues on and off. He is overweight and no matter what I feed him, including food formulated for weight loss, he does not lose weight. No one feeds him anything from the table. He also has a history of crystals, but has not been troubled by that for several years. Boo was said to be a borderline case for megacolon. What could I give him so his stool is soft enough to pass on a regular basis?

I like the addition of oils, such as salmon, flax or sesame. My favorite herb for constipation is slippery elm. With a little research, you should be able to find naturally based laxatives for cats that are usually indicated for hairballs. In a pinch, even though I’m not fond of the ingredients, I don’t mind those that are commonly

used in conventional veterinary medicine, such as Laxatone. Heel’s BHI makes a homeopathic remedy named Constipation that I have seen work. Even acupuncture could help. But if this is truly megacolon, the only thing I have seen to be effective is surgery in the hands of a very experienced surgeon.

We have a two-year-old golden retriever who was diagnosed with juvenile kidney disease at six months old. We discovered high creatinine and urea levels when we did blood tests and as a result had an ultrasound done only to determine the kidneys had not fully developed during the gestation period. The medulla or filtration tubes were not present. We have had him on a reduced protein and phosphorous diet, but his creatinine levels have climbed to 965. Urea is 46 and phosphorous is 3.8 – dangerous levels I am told. What is available in holistic medicine that might turn around the creatinine levels or prevent them from climbing further? He is full of energy, eats well and appears very healthy. I have taken him off the medical diet this past week and started him on organics: brown rice, veggies and 10% chicken protein all cooked and blended. I have also changed his water from filtered to distilled.

I would double-check that the creatinine result of 965 is not a typo. Either way, my recommendations would be a kidney glandular. We use Kidney by Miller Pharmacal. Also, add in some homeopathic support. The ones we use are BHI’s Kidney, or Professional Complementary Health Products’ Renal Drops. An herbal formula containing ingredients like uva ursi, dandelion, marshmallow root and horsetail could also add some medicinal support. With congenital kidney illnesses that progress no matter what you try, the only real effective treatment I know of is kidney animal wellness

holistic veterinary advice transplant. The University of Davis in California is the place to inquire about that.

My cat had a toe amputated earlier this year and we have battled infections on and off ever since. He has been on Clavamox several times and now his blood is showing liver difficulties. I’m to give him Denysol once this latest course of Clavamox is finished. Will milk thistle help and, if so, where can I purchase it for a cat? Should I pursue ultrasound/x-rays of the liver? He’s 11 years old and still a baby to me.

A Q

Yes, give him the milk thistle. Nutramax has recently come out with a milk thistle product for dogs and cats named Marin. We also very successfully use the homeopathic combination remedy Liver Gall Bladder Drops by Professional Complementary Health Products.

Are “human grade” vitamins safe for dogs? There are so many dog vitamins out there and the cost is more than what I pay for my own. I’m looking for a good multi for my dogs. We home cook for them. Also, my springer has pulled out her dew claw. The area is puffy, with no blood or discharge. Our vet didn’t want to prescribe antibiotics and suggested topical polysporin and saltwater poultice. Is there a homeopathic oral remedy that would reduce the puffiness? She won’t let me near her paw. I’ve been practicing and prescribing supplementation for dogs and cats for over 30 years and the majority of these supplements, especially up to just a few years ago, have been human products. For the dew claw, I like topical 3% hydrogen peroxide. I also use the oral homeopathics by BHI Infection, Traumeel and/or Injury. Also, good old homeopathic arnica can help.

I am confused about feeding my cat raw chicken. The vets say no because of bacteria and yet raw food enthusiasts say it is perfectly safe, that the bacteria doesn’t hurt cats because of their fast digestive tract. One vet also named a disease they can get from raw chicken – I can’t remember the complicated name. What should I do?

We sell over 3,000 pounds of raw meat products from our practice every month and a good percentage of that is raw chicken. I rarely see a problem outside of those animals that are either sensitive to the change to raw, or just can’t acclimate. The disease you are referring to is probably salmonella, or possibly e-coli.

Although I have rarely seen this as a direct correlation to feeding raw, I can’t say it’s not impossible. I just don’t let that slim possibility stand in the way of the extreme benefits I have seen from feeding raw meat diets, especially to cats. My own three cats have been almost exclusively on raw chicken, turkey and, less frequently, rabbit for many years and remain very healthy.

animal wellness

My ten-year-old golden retriever has had two problems for the past year. She has been dragging her right back leg on and off. The vet diagnosed pressure on her sciatic nerve. Also, the area around her vagina is ulcerated and does not clear. Usually the leg responds well when I do regular energy work on her, but recently she started really dragging the back leg and is walking on top of the foot as it is clubbing. I now have to help her up the stairs. The vet x-rayed her, and she has calcification along her spine which is causing pressure on her spinal cord and sciatic nerve. The vet did acupuncture without any noticeable results. The only good response was after I did sound work with tuning forks along the spine. Her energy went way up and she was flipping the foot over to walk on the pad. But after a few days she seems worse again. What can I do? My experience says that acupuncture is still the number one choice here. Try continuing it a bit longer, or try different points. Chiropractic in the hands of someone well-trained and licensed could also help. For supplements, I’d recommend the BHI homeopathics, Back or Sciatica; the supplement Vetridisc by Vetri-Science Labs; and a Chinese herbal formula named Liquidamber by the Seven Forests company. I have seen very positive results with the latter.

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. 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.

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Common ear problems in dogs and cats

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Does your dog or cat scratch his ears and shake his head a lot? If so, he may have a problem. Ear issues are among the most frequently seen conditions in veterinary practice. Unlike humans, who commonly have â&#x20AC;&#x153;earachesâ&#x20AC;? involving the middle and inner ear, the majority of problems in animals involve the outer or external ear canal.

animal wellness

Let's look at some of the most common ear problems:

1. Infections

In most animals, ear disease takes the form of infections. In younger dogs and cats, ear mites are the most common culprit and are contracted by contact with other infected animals. Infections in older animals are usually caused by yeasts or bacteria. These can result from excessive wax in the ears (very common in many spaniels), excess moisture, allergies, food sensitivities, mange, immune problems, and hormonal disease (thyroid and adrenal disorders). The cause is diagnosed by visual examination and by taking a small quantity of the material in the ear and looking at it microscopically. After determining the exact cause of the infection, the proper therapy can be prescribed.

2. Hematomas

Aural hematomas (ear blood blisters) are occasionally seen in dogs and rarely in cats. They can occur in animals of any age, although most of my patients are middleaged and older. Hematomas develop as the smaller blood vessels under the skin of the ear bleed. The cause is not always known but is usually associated with animals that, for whatever reason, shake their head and ears. The leaky vessels form a blood clot that develops between the skin of the ear and the underlying cartilage. Herbal and homeopathic therapies can resolve some hematomas, especially the smaller ones. Larger hematomas usually require surgery to remove the clot and stop the bleeding.

3. Hearing loss and deafness

Some deafness is inherited. Light-colored dogs and cats and merle-colored dogs tend to exhibit variable degrees of deafness from birth. There is no treatment for these animals. Hearing loss, meanwhile, is quite common in older animals, just as it is in older people. In some cases, it’s a sign of cognitive disorder and will improve with therapy for that condition. For this reason, I treat all cases of deafness with the therapies I use when treating animals with cognitive disorder.

Most often, however, deafness in older animals is part of the normal aging process, and is progressive and irreversible.

Dealing with infections Treating ear infections requires topical therapy with either conventional medications or herbal or homeopathic ear drops. Treatment must be given for at least two to three weeks to make sure the infection has cleared. Ear mites must be treated for a minimum of four weeks with the appropriate topical therapy. I rarely need oral medications to treat ear disease, but I do use them to control infections. Olive leaf extract is a wonderful natural therapy that helps boost the immune system as well as kill bacteria and yeasts. Used with topical therapies, it has helped cure many a problem ear disorder. Other therapies, including various homeopathics and herbs such as Echinacea or goldenseal, may also boost the animal’s immune system and act as a natural antibacterial/antifungal. Prior to treatment, it’s important that your animal’s ears are thoroughly cleaned, or your attempts to treat them at home will be less successful. This is done while your animal is still at the veterinarian’s office. Since infected ears are often painful, sedation or anesthesia may be needed.

What about chronic infections?

Lend me your ears

Some animals are more prone to ear diseases, particularly infections and aural hematomas. Breeds with large floppy ears (spaniels and basset hounds) and those susceptible to allergies (terriers and retrievers) seem to have more infections and hematomas than others. Regular ear cleaning using non-medicated rinses (homeopathics and herbal ear rinses containing tea tree oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, etc.) are particularly helpful in reducing ear odor and infections. predisposes the animal to chronic infections. I therefore always do something (herbal or homeopathic) to support the immune system. • I make sure the animal isn’t suffering from adrenal or thyroid disease. • I ensure any current treatment the animal is receiving is correct. So often, the drug, dosage, or dosing interval and duration of treatment aren’t right. Most of my patients with ear disease respond to therapy with topical medications, immune support, and natural antimicrobials. If your animal has recurring ear infections, don’t get discouraged; he or she can benefit from a similar treatment.

When it comes to chronic ear infections, the underlying cause must be determined and treated. Chronic ear infections are common in dogs, especially spaniels and retrievers. Whenever I consult with someone whose animal has a chronic infection of any type, I always consider several things. • First, while true food allergies are rare, a natural diet can help. A better diet is indicated even if the animal doesn’t get better by simply switching foods. • I also consider the possibility of an underlying immune problem that animal wellness

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product picks For picky fur people

Like children, some animals don’t want to eat healthy treats because they often just don’t taste as good. They’ll change their tune once they’ve tried Full Petential’s line of delicious high quality gourmet treats. Made from healthy, natural, meaty ingredients, the treats are packed with flavor and goodness. For dogs, choose from five different products, including Chicken Tenders, made from all natural fresh chicken breast. High in protein but low in fat and carbs, the treats are highly palatable and help promote good dental health. The company offers three delectable treats for finicky felines as well. Dog: $4.95 per 3.5 oz package Cat: $2.45 per 1.78 oz package www.fullpetential.com

A sparkling smile

Periodontal disease means more than just bad breath and tartar. It can lead to painful gum infections that make your companion’s life a misery. But it’s easy to prevent these problems, thanks to PetzLife Oral Care Spray and Gel. These all-natural products kill bacteria on contact, remove plaque and tartar, and prevent or reverse oral disease and bad breath. The ingredients include grape seed extract, thyme oil, neem oil, rosemary oil and peppermint oil, all of which are specially formulated with distilled water and grain alcohol to keep your animal’s teeth and gums in good health. Spray: $21.95 Gel: $24.95 Spray/Gel 2 Pack: $39.95 www.petzlife.com

Humane harnesses

Daily walks are key to your companion’s well being, but if he happens to pull a lot, he could be doing damage to his neck and esophagus, and that’s not good. The Tug N Hug Pet Harness Company offers a solution with its varied line of humanely designed Easy On/Off No-Pull Harnesses for dogs and cats. The sturdy hand sewn harnesses are uniquely made to apply pressure on the body and shoulders of your animal rather than the sensitive neck and armpit areas. This makes it much easier for you to control your companion without causing him pain and discomfort. $27.99 to $80.99 www.tugnhug.com

The organic advantage

Fresh, whole meat and veggies are an essential part of a healthy dog’s diet, but knowing where these ingredients come from is also important. Factory farmed meat contains growth hormones and antibiotics, while commercially grown vegetables are loaded with pesticides, fertilizers and other toxic chemicals. Thanks to Paw Naturaw, you don’t have to worry about these harmful additives. Their frozen raw grain-free diets are made with 100% organic meats, fruits and vegetables. Choose from grass fed organic beef, bison or family farmed organic chicken or turkey diets. 12 oz: $4.49 to $8.95 12-pack: $51.92 to $103.43 www.pawnaturaw.com animal wellness

ticks by Mark Newkirk, VMD

Everyone hates ticks (except maybe the birds that eat them), but like fleas and cockroaches, they’re a fact of life. Those who live in the northern U.S. and Canada at There are many species of tick, and they can carry many types of disease; it’s not just the “deer tick” anymore. From Lyme disease to tick paralysis to anaplasmosis, these little devils know how to cause trouble. Some diseases remain species specific, but some, like Lyme, can cross species and infect dogs, deer and humans.

animal wellness

least get a break during the frosts of winter, but in the spring these creepy critters seem to come back with a vengeance, as if to say: “Did you miss us?”

Two of the most common tick-borne diseases in dogs and humans, aside from Lyme, are Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), and erlichia or ehrlichiosis.

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) RMSF causes signs and symptoms that

are very similar to Lyme disease. These include joint pain and stiffness, and limping or lameness that may come and go. The “danger” of these general symptoms is that both guardians and vets often chalk them up to a sprained ligament or twisted knee because the animal seems better in a day or two. A couple of keys to diagnosis are fever,

Tick photos: Andy Lopez

Tackling

Tick tactics An unattached tick is very tiny and hard to see. For this reason, it’s important to make sure, when you’re checking your animal’s coat, to get right down to the skin. Using a fine-toothed flea comb can help. If you find a tick that has already embedded itself in the animal’s skin, do not try to pull or twist it out with your fingers – you’ll probably break it off and leave part of the insect inside the wound. Also, do not use a burnt match, cigarette or chemicals to get the tick to back out of the animal’s skin. For dogs, try using a drop of tea tree, lavender or citrus oil instead. Do not use essential oils on cats. (Adding a few drops of these oils to some water and spraying them on your dog’s coat or your own clothing can also help prevent ticks from jumping on when you’re out walking.) The best method is to use a tick-removal tool available at pet and/or sporting goods stores. Take your time, and make sure to pull the insect steadily and directly out of the wound, without twisting it. Kill the tick promptly (putting it in alcohol is the most foolproof method), then thoroughly clean the bite and wash your hands. If you don’t feel confident about removing the tick yourself, your veterinarian will do it for you. Either way, it’s a good idea to alert your vet to the fact that your animal has been bitten. Keep an eye open for any signs of illness. #

-9

recurrent symptoms, lameness shifting to another leg, and an apparent lack of pain when the joint is manipulated. A blood test is available to confirm RMSF. #-9

Erlichia Ehrlichiosis has become the second most common infectious disease in the U.S. and is spreading every year. It is potentially life-threatening and is carried by several common dog ticks. This parasite attacks the blood cells, not the

so again, it’s easy to be fooled) are the main signs. Routine blood screening will often show a decreased platelet count. The disease can result in permanent blindness, autoimmune disease, bleeding complications and even death. While there are no proven cases of direct transmission of the ehrlichiosis parasite from dogs to people, ticks can transmit it straight to you. A simple in-office blood test can determine if your animal has this disease.

Treatment and prevention Cats seem resistant to many tick diseases, like erlichia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. We don’t know for sure why, but the feline just isn’t as predisposed to tick-borne illness as humans and their canine friends.

All tick-borne diseases are primarily treated with a conventional medication called doxycycline, which is used for three to four weeks. Follow-up testing is indicated after a time, to see if the disease is gone.

joints. Intermittent fever and lethargy (which could fit many other illnesses,

There is no vaccine for either erlichia or RMSF, and the decision to vaccinate for Lyme disease depends on exposure animal wellness

risk [see below]. Some areas of the country may not have a tick problem, due to climate or altitude, but most parts of the U.S. and many parts of Canada are endemic for tick-borne diseases. Sometimes we will use nosodes as a sort of homeopathic “vaccination” in treatment or as a preventative. Treatment of active or resistant Lyme disease can also be done with Lym D (Bio Active Nutritional) and Ledum, both of which are homeopathic remedies.

Revisiting Lyme disease Often called “the great imitator”, Lyme disease, like other tick-borne illnesses, can be difficult to diagnose because of its similarity to other disorders such as arthritis. Symptoms can include stiffness and lameness as well as fever, depression and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, Lyme disease can affect the heart, kidneys or nervous system. Although Lyme disease is more prevalent in the northeastern U.S., it has been diagnosed throughout the country, as well as Hawaii, Alaska and many parts of Canada, although exposure risk varies, depending on the region. A vaccine is available, but it’s best to find out how much of a risk Lyme disease is in your area before going ahead with it.

To be honest, I have found nothing holistic that works effectively to kill ticks. They’re just too darn tough! The best non-medical preventive is to avoid walking your animal along narrow, overgrown trails or through tall grass, and to groom and comb him every day to search for ticks. If risk exposure is high, and given the potentially crippling or life threatening diseases that can result, I will sometimes advocate the use of a topical tick control “spot-on”. Risk versus benefit is the rule. However, I will usually muscle test different products to see which, if any, are compatible with the patient. Ticks are gross, but like death and taxes, they’re a part of life. With the return of warmer weather, it’s a wise idea to stay vigilant and do everything you can to protect yourself and your animal companions from being bitten.

animal wellness

For current cancer study results, email: dralbertsanchez@msn.com

animal wellness

7 Top

ways

to make

fleas flee

by Ann Brightman

They might be tiny, but they’re tough, hardy, and persistent. If you share your life with a dog or cat, fleas are often a fact of life during the warm weather months. In worst case scenarios, they can make your furry friend wretched, causing everything from intense itching and inflammation to anemia and lowered immunity. But as resilient as fleas are, you don’t have to put up with them, or resort to fumigating your animal and home with chemicals. Implementing a holistically-designed prevention and control program is the best way to go; the following seven suggestions can help your buddy get through the summer flea free. 40

animal wellness

Start with prevention Don’t wait till fleas make their appearance before doing something about them. Taking preventative steps before the season starts will help your dog or cat repel any fleas he does happen to pick up, and greatly minimize the chances of an infestation. The two keys to prevention are a healthy immune system and good hygiene.

Diet

The healthier and stronger your companion is, the less he’ll be affected by fleas. One of the primary ways to keep him in peak condition is to feed him a high quality diet made with whole, natural

Photo: Hazel Moore

ingredients free of hormones and pesticides. Stay away from those cheap commercial diets containing artificial preservatives, coloring and other additives;

these toxins are secreted through the hair follicles and can exacerbate skin problems, including flea bite dermatitis. Instead, try a raw frozen or premium canned food. A good diet will not only

improve your companion’s wellness all round, but will also go a long way towards keeping fleas at bay.

Supplements

The great thing about flearepelling supplements is that they’re also good for overall health. Salmon or flaxseed oils are full of essential fatty acids that promote healthy hair and skin, while adding a clove of fresh grated garlic to your dog’s food each day will

help build up his immunity and generate an odor fleas find unattractive. Many vets don’t recommend feeding garlic to cats because it can sometimes damage the red blood cells and cause anemia. Try brewer’s yeast instead: it’s a good source of vitamin B1 and also acts as a flea repellent. When introducing any supplement to your animal’s diet, it’s a good idea to talk to a holistic vet first.

Grooming

Frequently brushing your dog or cat removes the dead hair, mats and tangles that provide a perfect hiding place for fleas. Ideally, your animal should be brushed daily, animal wellness

but once or twice a week will suffice if you do a thorough job. Invest in a flea comb as well: this fine-toothed grooming tool is designed to snag adult fleas. Be sure to get the comb as close to the skin as possible and pay special attention to areas where fleas can congregate: under the legs, around the head and tail, and the belly area.

Bathing

Regular bathing is a highly effective way to help keep fleas off your animal. Just

animal wellness

be sure to use a gentle shampoo with natural ingredients that won’t dry out or irritate his skin – aloe and oatmeal is an excellent choice. For dogs, you can also select from natural shampoos, conditioners and rinses that contain flea-repelling essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, tea tree, mint, neem and citrus. These oils offer the added benefits of soothing and refreshing the skin and cutting through odor and grease without drying the coat. Remember not to use essential oils on cats – they’re toxic to felines. When bathing your animal, soap him well, especially around the areas where fleas can collect, and try to leave the lather on for 10 to 15 minutes, to drown existing fleas. Rinse thoroughly.

Control measures What if you already have a serious flea problem? The above suggestions are still crucial, but you’ll need to take a few additional measures. Fleas reproduce prolifically and rapidly, which means you need to break their life cycle in order to get rid of them. And although adult fleas lay their eggs on your animal, the eggs drop off into the environment before hatching. Once the larvae mature into adult fleas, they jump on the animal and start feeding. As you can see, it’s a vicious circle, and while flea-repelling products can help, they don’t actually kill the fleas, eggs or larvae. So as well as looking after your animal’s hygiene and health, you also need to tackle his environment in order to have a real impact on the fleas.

Go on a major cleaning spree. Thoroughly vacuum all carpets and upholstery, taking care to get into all those dark corners and crevices and along the baseboards. Dispose of the vacuum bag promptly. Launder in hot water anything that can be washed, such as cushion covers, curtains, or bed spreads. Frequently wash your animal’s bedding and regularly clean all other surfaces he lies on. To help keep fleas from returning to the bedding, try sprinkling some cedar shavings or lavender seeds in and around it. You can also carefully sprinkle natural, unprocessed diatomaceous earth on carpets, along walls and in cracks in the floor or corners. It will damage the

Outside the house

In warm weather, fleas can live quite happily in your backyard, ready to jump on your companion as soon as he walks past. Clear the area of any piles of dead leaves, lp e r t -Woo brush, or other yard reeman F lia and garden debris where fleas can hide, and keep dog houses or cat enclosures clean and dry. Ju

Inside the house

fleas’ interior functions and kill them. Sodium-based flea-killing products, meanwhile, act as a dessicant and break the life cycle by drying out flea eggs and larvae.

Pho to:

Consider buying beneficial nematodes – these are naturally occurring

microscopic worms that kill fleas by infesting their larvae. The Steinernema (Sc or Sf) varieties are the best. Nematodes are usually available in a pellet or powdered form; just mix them with water and spread them over the area you wish to treat, using a watering can or sprayer.

Topicals

For dogs with fleas, essential oils can make an effective alternative to chemical spot-ons. Tea tree oil is especially effective and will kill fleas when used as a topical. Keep in mind that essential oils are very strong and should be used sparingly. It’s best to dilute them with some water rather than use them neat. Consult with

animal wellness

Conventional flea products When dealing with a serious flea infestation, it can be tempting to resort to chemical treatments. While it’s true that some of these products may work faster than more natural alternatives, you pay for it by exposing your animal (and yourself) to toxic substances that can have a variety of adverse effects. In addition, overuse of pesticides can actually cause immunity in new generations of fleas. It’s therefore best to avoid commercial flea powders, collars and sprays altogether. The same issues apply to non-OTC chemical spot-ons. Here’s a brief overview of a few of the ingredients used in these products, and the potential health problems that have been linked to them.

Fibronil: skin irritation, thyroid cancer, skin irritation and damage to organs, nervous system and reproductive system

Imidaclorprid: organ damage, and neurological or reproductive disorders Selamectin: ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, drooling and lethargy

animal wellness

a professional aromatherapist for more detailed advice. Again, do not use these oils on cats. Use aromatic hydrosols instead. A hydrosol is not the same as a diluted essential oil: it’s the water (sometimes called floral water) that’s left over after an essential oil is produced using steam or water distillation. Herbal flea powders and collars are another alternative – be sure to get a natural product. In many regions, it’s still early in the year to be thinking about fleas. But the sooner you put a prevention program in place, the better your companion will cope if he does pick up a few fleas this summer, and the easier it will be to keep them under control.

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Danny Venegas and his dog Oreo took 2nd place at the 2006 Hyperflite Skyhoundz World Championship.

Disc dog is a

Photos courtesy of Skyhoundz

high-flying event W by Charlotte Walker

hen I was a kid, my dog Max and I used to have loads of fun with my red plastic Frisbee. I didn’t have a terribly good

throw, but that didn’t matter to Max, who tore after the disc

as it sailed erratically down the yard. Sometimes he had to retrieve it from the bushes at the bottom of the garden, but often he’d jump up and catch it neatly in mid-air, drawing appreciative applause from his delighted onlookers.

animal wellness

Both Max and my Frisbee have been gone many years, but the sport now known as disc dog has grown to international status, with hundreds of annual competitions taking place on a variety of levels in countries around the world. And today’s participants are far more skilled and proficient at the sport than Max and I ever were – contemporary disc dog events range from long distance throwing and breath-taking

Want to get your own dog involved? Start planning now: • First, take your dog to the vet to make sure he’s up to the vigorous activity that canine disc sports entail. If he’s overweight, for example, or has issues with hip dysplasia or other joint problems, you’ll need to exercise caution. • Most dogs love this sport. Jeff says it can take a few minutes or a few days to get a dog interested, but once he’s hooked, “it’s like a light bulb going on.” • Start slow and work your way up to longer throws and higher jumps. “If your vet says it’s okay but you’re still concerned, just don’t encourage high jumps,” says Jeff. “It’s also a good idea to get some weight off a heavy dog before he starts jumping so there’s less stress on the joints.” • To avoid injuries, be sure to choose a suitable spot to play. “Injuries are very rare in this sport and when they do happen it’s usually because of a mistake we made,” says Jeff. “Go to a park with a nice grassy field that doesn’t have any holes or rough spots, and make sure you’re in control of your throws so they don’t cause your dog to run into an obstacle.”

jumps to meticulously choreographed routines between dog and humans.

How did disc dog start? “Canine disc sports originated more than 30 years ago in the U.S.,” says Jeff Perry, co-founder of Hyperflite, manufacturers of discs engineered especially for use in competition. “No one knows who first

started throwing Frisbees to dogs, but we do know that the sport was popularized largely by the escapades of Alex Stein and his legendary dog, Ashley.” One summer day in 1974, Alex and his whippet companion ran onto the field during a nationally televised baseball game and entertained the crowds for about eight minutes. “Their escapades catapulted the sport into the mainstream

of public awareness. From there, Alex was fortuitously connected with an entrepreneurial gentleman named Irv Lander and they created a national contest series. That’s how it all started.” The sport has come a long way since then, and has also gained popularity in many other parts of the world. “When it first started out, it was at a very basic animal wellness

Which canines make the best champs? You might think only certain breeds would be able to participate in canine disc sports, but any dog can become a competitor. In fact, most people involved in the sport agree that the good old-fashioned mixed breed makes the best candidate. “We see all types and breeds of dog, but shelter mutts make up the greatest collection of world champions,” says Jeff. “They’re followed by the herding and retrieving breeds and some of the bulldog breeds. But there’s really no dog that can’t learn it.”

First place champions Danny Eggleston and Guinan

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animal wellness

level,” says Jeff. “Dogs were just getting used to the idea of catching something that was flying through the air. Essentially, catching and retrieving were all a dog really had to do to become a world champion. But now the sport has evolved to be a lot more complex.”

Canine competitions Sponsored by Hyperflite, the annual Skyhoundz World Championship offers four distinct divisions for competitors. “One is the Micro-Dog Division for small dogs,” explains Jeff. “Another is the Open Division which combines the distance element with freestyle; competitors get on the field and perform two-minute choreographed routines with up to five flying discs. There’s also the Sport Division which is basically fetch and catch with a challenging course where the dog has to land in defined scoring zones. The fourth and newest division is Pairs Freestyle, and that’s two people performing with one dog in a choreographed routine. It’s

really amazing what people are coming up with these days for that event.” Top qualified competitors come from around the globe for the Skyhoundz World Championship, which took place last year on September 23 and 24 at Piedmont Park in Atlanta, Georgia. “Because of the difficulties of travel, most of the competitors are from the U.S., but we do have an increasing number of folks from all over the world,” says Jeff. “We had quite a large contingent from Canada last year and also had folks coming in from Belgium and the Far East. You don’t have to have a purebred dog, and you don’t have to be in any particular age group. Even disabled dogs and people compete from time to time. Last year, in fact, for the first time, we had a three-legged dog that qualified for the championship.” The Hyperflite Skyhoundz Championship series is a tiered competition, which means there are championships taking place at all levels. The series starts with smaller local competitions that allow beginners to get their feet wet and to see if disc dog is the sport for them and their canine companions. “Last year there were over 100 local championships in the U.S. which don’t require any prequalification or experience and are free,” says Jeff. “If you then decide you want to take it up a notch, we have several regional qualifier championships. There are small registration fees for these but any dog and person are still eligible to compete.” From there, winners can move on to world championship level. Unlike so many organized sports these days, disc dog competitions don’t get ugly. In fact, it’s an exciting and enjoyable experience for dogs and competitors as well as spectators. “It’s a life changing experience for many because they find there’s a whole world of people out there who love to have fun and active lives with their dogs,” says Jeff. “There’s no animosity or rivalry other than friendly competition. Everyone wants all the dogs to do really well. It’s just a blast.”

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Hairballs… by Michelle Bernard

For five mornings in a row, Roger found himself stepping in what he calls “kitty landmines”. Susie’s loud hacking attempts to dislodge her hairballs were also disrupting his sleep. But it wasn’t his wakefulness or the slimy surprises on the floor that worried him as much as Susie’s health and discomfort.

Susie’s fur wasn’t terribly long, but it was thick with a lot of undercoat, similar to that of a British shorthair. Like most cats, she spent a good part of her day attending to hygiene, including grooming her luxurious coat and ingesting a lot of hair.

Why do cats get hairballs? Hairballs should not be a problem for cats as a species, because in the wild they regularly consume the fur of prey animals. But selective breeding has resulted in cats with coats longer than natural for the type of small wild feline they evolved from. While shorthaired cats can suffer from hairballs, those with longer, thicker coats are more prone to them because they’ll consume more hair while grooming. Some cats even become neurotic groomers. Occasional hairballs are not a problem, but if you notice your cat hacking in what can sometimes be a difficult expulsion, or is passing hairballs more than a few times a month, it’s time to address the situation. While hairballs are normally stuck in the stomach (which is why cats vomit them up), they can become impacted in the intestines, a potentially life-threatening situation.

Are “specially formulated” diets and medications helpful? Many commercial pet food companies offer dry diets specially formulated to

animal wellness

Yuck! alleviate hairballs. These foods contain more fiber, such as powdered cellulose or beet pulp, to make hairballs pass more easily through the cat’s digestive system. The problem with this type of food is that the extra fiber is added in place of other important ingredients, including meat. There is virtually no fiber in a cat’s natural diet, so adding extra fiber may actually be detrimental. Too much fiber can irritate a cat’s digestive tract, and cause cramping or bloating. In addition, it can bind with the water normally passing through the digestive tract, causing constipation or concentrating the urine and leading to urinary tract disease. Many cats find high fiber food unpalatable, and extra fiber can cause bulkier stools. Other conventional treatments for hairballs include Vaseline, mineral oil or products like Laxatone or Petramault, both of which are flavored petroleum jelly. Personally, I cringe at the idea of feeding a cat petroleum jelly or mineral oil.

Natural prevention and treatment Instead of resorting to conventional cures, why not take steps to help prevent hairballs in the first place?

Grooming: The more you brush your cat to remove loose hair, the less he will consume while grooming. It’s

true that some cats refuse to let their caregivers groom them, but many others enjoy the experience.

Diet: All my cats are fed a raw meat diet which includes muscle meat, organ meat and ground bone. They rarely, if ever, pass hairballs. If a raw diet isn’t possible, try a good quality canned food with a high meat content. The grains found in most commercial dry foods are not conducive to good digestive health in felines.

Natural fiber: Instead of feeding a high fiber dry food in an attempt to reduce hairballs, try adding a bit of canned pumpkin (without spices) to a quality canned food. Pumpkin can regulate digestive issues in cats. Adding water to the food is another option.

Exercise: The more your cat runs and plays, the better his digestive system will work and the healthier he’ll be all around.

Homeopathy: Excessive grooming or difficulty passing hairballs signal an overall lack of health. A well-indicated homeopathic remedy or, if necessary, a treatment plan involving several remedies over time, will result in a healthier cat that is less prone to hairballs. Be sure to work with a qualified homeopath. Once Roger began implementing some of the above suggestions into Susie’s lifestyle, he soon saw improvement. “She seems happier and has more energy. Best of all, I haven’t stepped in a hairball for weeks!” animal wellness

Is Fido

fearful

Acupressure can help

by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

he sight of a dog cowering in a corner, legs trembling and head down, breaks any animal loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart. Though this example is

extreme, many dogs live within the spectrum

of being intermittently timid or fearful to being numbingly petrified and overly self-protective. At any level, fear causes a lot of stress and suffering. Fear and timidity have many causes. The most common are abuse and neglect, lack of socialization and training, a submissive temperament and/or high flight drive, or an undetected medical issue. Some dogs, such as herding breeds, are more inclined to be timid because their work and survival traditionally depend on being acutely protective. For the sake of these dogs and the people around them, guardians and trainers, along with conventional and complementary healthcare providers, have developed good approaches to help these struggling animals.

animal wellness

Start with a check-up The first step is to rule out any underlying medical problem. Dogs that do not feel well or are in pain can act fearfully or defensively. Have the dog checked by a holistic veterinarian. Once a medical problem has been ruled out, training and behavior modification can help. Canine behaviorists and trainers have devised programs that assist with everything from lack of confidence and submissiveness to defensive aggression problems. For instance, many dogs, especially northern breeds, suffer from thunder phobia and will run and hide

during a storm. A trainer or behaviorist can design a progressive desensitization program that will slowly help the dog overcome this fear while also building his self-confidence through other training techniques. Problem behaviors like submissive urination, meanwhile, can be extinguished through a well designed counter-conditioning program. Many trainers, behaviorists and healthcare practitioners are adding complementary therapies when working with timid and fearful dogs. These include the ancient Chinese modality of acupressure, which has been proven to help lessen anxiety while building new coping skills.

The acupressure approach Acupressure, like acupuncture, is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). To perform an acupressure session, we use our fingers, while a professional acupuncturist uses needles to stimulate specific pools of energy on the body. Everyone can offer their dog an acupressure session since it is non-invasive, readily available, and perfectly safe. The more you know, the more effective acupressure can be, but an animal can receive tremendous benefit from it even when the person offering it has little or no experience. Acupressure works with the life-promoting energy of the body known as “Chi” in Chinese (also seen as “Qi” or “Ki”). In TCM, health and well-being occurs when Chi flows harmoniously through the body. When this flow is disrupted or blocked, the energy in the animal’s body becomes imbalanced, leading to physical and emotional ill-health. From a TCM perspective, when a dog is overly timid or fearful, he is not experiencing a harmonious flow of Chi. Fear and timidity constrict and block the flow, causing an imbalance.

To re-establish the flow and remove the blockages along the energy pathways of the dog’s body, we press down with our thumb or index finger on a particular pool of energy. These energy pools are called “acupoints” and they are same points used by acupuncturists. By holding an acupoint, you are influencing the flow of Chi and allowing the body to rebalance its own harmonious flow.

Session for reducing timidity and fear The purpose of an acupressure session is to reduce the level of the dog’s fear in general. It may not be wise to perform the session while the dog is experiencing extreme fear. Be sure to gauge how safe it is to work with the dog and wait until he isn’t in a heightened or agitated state. The following acupoints were selected to address timidity and fear so the dog can feel less anxious and more open to new patterns of behavior. Each of these points (see chart pg. 54) has the capacity to release energy so the dog’s Chi will be balanced and

flow harmoniously through his body. Governing Vessel 20, Heaven’s Gate (GV 20) – benefits the spirit of the animal while also clearing the mind of anxiety and fear. Heart 7, Mind Door (Ht 7) – known for calming the mind, relieving disturbances of spirit, and allowing for new patterns to be developed. Yin Tang and Yang Tang – Yin Tang is used to elevate the dog’s ability to focus for training. If the dog is overly-focused and unable to relinquish it, use the Yang Tang acupoint to disperse it and relieve the intensity of fear. Bai Hui, Point of a Hundred Meetings – a traditional animal point that increases his sense of well-being. Most dogs love this point when you give it a good scratch. Place the soft tip of your thumb on the point and simply press down gently yet with intention. Place your other hand comfortably on the dog as well. Slowly count to 30 while you're applying pressure or until the dog animal wellness

Fear & Timidity Points

GV 20 Yin Tang Yang Tang

Bai Hui

For smaller dogs, it is easier to use the two-finger point work technique. Place your middle finger on top of your index finger and press down on the acupoint gently but with intention. Again, slowly count to 30 or move to the next point when the dog indicates he has released energy. While holding each acupoint, focus on how much you want to help your dog overcome his fears and be more confident and comfortable on this earth. This helps reinforce the session.

Ht 7

Lateral

Points

Medial

Lateral

Location

Yin Tang

Located on the dorsal midline, between the eyes (about at the 3rd eye)

Yang Tang

Found lateral to the outer canthus of the eye, just above the cheek bone

GV 20

On the dorsal midline, about level with the front edge of the ears

Bai Hui

Located on the dorsal midline, at the lumbosacral space

Ht 7

Found above the transverse crease of the carpal joint, in the large depression on the lateral side of the foreleg

animal wellness

demonstrates that he has released the acupoint by yawning, licking, stretching, rolling over, passing air, or even falling asleep. Then move on to the next acupoint.

For maximum benefit, perform this acupressure session every five or six days along with any other behavioral resources you have chosen for your dog. Acupressure is an effective tool to be used in conjunction with any training, desensitization, or counter-conditioning program. By performing this work, you are diminishing your canine companionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fears, enhancing your personal bond, and giving him the precious gift of well being.

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No more tear stains –

what to do about this "unsightly" condition by Susan Neal

ina has a soft spot for cocker spaniels. She has two, and takes pride in keeping them looking their best. However, one of them has an ongoing problem with tear stains. “She always looks great when I finish bathing and brushing her, but in a few days, the fur under her eyes is all yucky again.” What is tear staining? A dog’s eyelids contain special ducts that produce tears. Tears serve to clean and lubricate the eye and protect it against infection by bathing it with a bacteria-

fighting substance. Excess liquid produced by the tear ducts either evaporates, or is pooled in the corner of the eye and carried to the back of the throat by a drainage system. If this system doesn’t work properly, or the ducts produce too

much fluid, tear staining can occur. Tear stains are brown discolorations that tarnish the animal’s facial hair below the eyes. It is most noticeable on white or light colored dogs. Both purebreds and mixed breeds can be affected. Because the area is constantly wet, it’s the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. So although the discoloration is only a cosmetic problem, it can lead to secondary infections of the skin. A variety of underlying medical conditions can also cause tear staining. These include infection, allergies, animal wellness

entropion (a congenital defect of the eyelid), foreign material lodged in the eye, or hereditary predispositions.

Six ways to solve the problem

1. If your dog is developing unsightly discolorations around the eyes, the first step is to have her examined by a veterinarian to rule out any of the above conditions. Depending on the

condition and its severity, it may need to be treated with medication or surgery.

high-quality, natural food that does not contain any chemical additives or dyes.

2. Once medical causes are ruled out, 3. Some water sources can contain high address any environmental conditions that could be exacerbating the situation. Additives and dyes in food or treats can trigger tear staining. Suspect a foodrelated cause if the staining is bright red, very dark, or begins shortly after switching to a new food. Many staining problems can be remedied by feeding a

amounts of iron or other contaminants that might contribute to brown or reddish tear stains. If you suspect your water may be the source of the problem, have it tested by a certified lab. If the test yields any results deemed unacceptable for human consumption, they are unacceptable for your animal as well. Consider installing a filter system.

4. A number of common household products can irritate an animal’s sensitive eyes and cause tearing and staining; these include cigarette smoke, perfumes and air fresheners. Do not use these products around your animals.

5. If your dog still has tear staining after you’ve ruled out medical and environmental factors, seek the services of a professional groomer to treat the discoloration. She will use special shampoos made specifically for animals with this condition (make sure she uses products that are as natural as possible). She may also clip the hair around the dog’s eyes to minimize stains and reduce irritation. She might secure a long-coated dog’s brow hair into a topknot, since hair dangling in the eyes can also cause irritation in some animals.

Between grooming appointments, wipe the dog’s eyes several times a day with a clean, soft cloth, dampened with warm water if necessary. Your groomer or local pet supply store may carry packaged eyes wipes designed specifically for this purpose. Never use human hair dyes or household cleaners such as bleach on your dog. These products can cause serious harm to her eyes and skin. Not all tear staining conditions can be eliminated, but most can be controlled to enhance your pet’s appearance and prevent secondary health complications. By working closely with your veterinarian and groomer, you can successfully manage this condition.

animal wellness

Illustration: Stephanie Wright

Bath time! C

onditioner

by Ann Brightman

hampoo

Tub tips for you and your canine companion

My dog Alice was prone to skin problems, which meant regular bathing was a must. During the winter, we used the laundry room, but on warm days, we headed out to the back yard, where I took off my shoes and socks, rolled up my jeans, and plunked her into the single plastic laundry tub I purchased especially for the purpose. Alice never really enjoyed her baths, but she did love how she felt afterwards. One of my favorite memories is of watching her race exuberantly around the yard after she’d been toweled off, mouth stretched in a wide grin, stopping every now and then to give herself a vigorous shake. Most dogs benefit from regular baths, especially if they’re bothered by fleas,

animal wellness

heat, allergies, or other factors that irritate the skin and cause uncomfortable itching. Bathing also keeps a dog’s coat clean, glossy and healthy, cuts down on odor and, like Alice, just helps her feel better all round. Talk to your vet or groomer about how often you should bath your dog. Some types and breeds will need bathing more than others, but too many baths can be as detrimental as too few. Over-bathing depletes the natural oils in the hair and skin and can exacerbate dryness and irritation. As a general rule, longhaired or curly-coated dogs need more bathing than those with short, smooth coats. Dogs that spend a lot of time running and romping around outdoors

may also need more frequent baths. The drawback is that most dogs dislike being bathed, although some are more amenable to it than others. Here’s how to ensure bath days are as stress-free and beneficial as possible for both of you.

Before you start Gradually introduce your dog or puppy to the idea of bathing (do not bath pups younger than five weeks). Get him used to being touched by gently handling his paws, legs, ears and tail. Do this several times a day, rewarding him with praise or a few small treats so he comes to associate it with something positive.

Decide where you’re going to bath your dog, and get him accustomed to entering that area and hearing the sound of running water. Reinforce calm behavior with treats and praise. If he show signs of anxiety, don’t show impatience or force him to remain in the room. Simply withhold the rewards, and try again later. Large dogs can be bathed in a tub or shower, while smaller dogs that are easier to lift can be done in a sink or laundry tub. A detachable spray nozzle for rinsing is ideal. If you’re going to use a raised sink, be careful he doesn’t try to jump out as he could hurt himself. Outdoor baths are ideal on hot summer afternoons, but don’t use the garden hose for wetting and rinsing as the water can quickly become uncomfortably cold. Use a pitcher instead. Do not bath your dog outside during cold or windy weather. Choose a warm indoor spot away from draughts and doorways.

If your dog is large, excitable, or wriggles a lot, you might want to ask a family member or friend to help. Choose someone the dog knows and trusts.

Pre-bath pointers Be sure to buy the right shampoo and conditioner for your dog. Avoid commercial products as they contain harsh chemicals that can worsen skin issues. Purchase products that are as gentle and natural as possible – ask a holistic vet or groomer for assistance. Oatmeal shampoos are an excellent choice for dogs with skin

problems. For fleas, a shampoo containing pest-repelling oils like citrus, lavender or rosemary can be helpful. Give your dog a thorough brushing before the bath. This loosens and removes dead hair and also cuts down on the amount of wet hair you’ll have to fish out of the tub afterwards. Tangles and mats should be brushed or cut out as they’ll be impossible to unpick once the hair is wet. Remove any burrs or other debris. Gather everything you’ll need for the bath: brush and comb, shampoo and conditioner, a sponge or washcloth, a pitcher or other container for rinsing if you don’t have a spray nozzle, towels, and a handful of small treats. Keep everything within easy reach, and open bottle caps so you’re not struggling with them during the bath. Accept the fact that bathing a dog is messy. Splashes and spills are inevitable. Wear old clothes and have rags or a mop on hand to clean up afterwards. Put down a nonskid rubber mat to prevent the dog from slipping or scratching your tub or sink. A secure foothold helps him feel more comfortable. Dogs don’t like hot, deep baths like we do. Keep the water lukewarm and only fill the tub or sink to knee height on the dog. Take care when lifting

a larger or heavier dog into the tub. Stay as upright as possible and lift with your legs rather than your back. Be sure to support both the chest and hind quarters of the dog with your arms.

Shampooing and rinsing Start slowly by giving your dog a gentle spray or wet down, giving him lots of verbal encouragement. Don’t spray or drench his face; use a damp washcloth instead. Keep water and shampoo out of his eyes and ears. Soft cotton balls can protect his ears if he’ll accept wearing them. When shampooing the dog, generate a good lather and cover every area of the body, including the belly, between the legs, and around the tail, paws, throat and ear flaps. This especially important if he has fleas. Do not lather near the eyes

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or nostrils. Make sure you work the shampoo right down to the skin. Don’t forget to periodically reward him with a treat! Rinse the dog thoroughly (drain the tub first), starting along the spine and the back of the head and tail, and working down to the flanks, belly and legs. Don’t let any residue remain, as it can cause skin irritation. Watch that the soapy water doesn’t run into his eyes, ears or nose. Apply a conditioner if needed; again, be sure to rinse well.

Dry him thoroughly Once the bath is over, dry your dog off immediately. Start by gently squeezing as much water as possible out of his coat. Let him shake if he wants; this helps wick off a lot of excess moisture. Gently rub or pat him down with a large, thick towel. As soon as it gets damp, switch to a fresh one. If you’re using a hairdryer – often useful if the dog has a long or thick coat that takes a long time to dry – use the lowest setting and don’t bring it too close to his skin or face.

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everything that nature has created for their care. This powerful natural supplement contains all essential enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, minerals and micro nutrition in a delicious Wild Salmon and Coconut Oil base. Please educate yourself at our one stop shop for real solutions to real problems. Elliott Harvey, MH has created a series of natural products that meet the needs of today’s health concerns of our animal friends. He is available for consultations or just for a chat.

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If the weather is cold, don’t let him outside until he’s completely dry. And finally? Wrap up the session with loads of praise and a favorite treat! animal wellness

Photos: Tim King

Mountain View is a true ark among conservation centers

by Ann Brightman

Along with climate change, one of the biggest environmental challenges facing us this century is the alarming number of species facing extinction. But if you think the news is all bad, you haven’t heard about the Mountain View Conservation & Breeding Centre Society. Set on a beautiful piece of land in the temperate rainforest area of the Fraser Valley near Langley, British Columbia, this amazing facility has for many years been dedicating itself to the conservation and breeding of rare and critically endangered animals from every continent on the planet. “It was started in 1986 by Gordon Blankstein and his wife Yvonne,” says Tim King, who looks after the photography and media relations for the center. “Gordon told me that ever since he was a child he was interested in animals

animal wellness

Top left: A view of Mountain View from the hilltop home of founder Gordon Blankstein. Endangered or threatened animals at the center include Stanley cranes (opposite page), caracals (top right), giraffes (right) and Grevy's zebras (above). animal wellness

Top: A rare Vancouver Island marmot pup. Left: Gordon Blankstein inspects a young Malaysian tapir. Right: Staff member Renee Bumpus feeds black lemurs.

and in looking after them. He also studied biology with David Suzuki at the University of British Columbia.” Armed with degrees not only in biology but also business management, Gordon went on to become a billionaire. “He could afford to do this properly,” says Tim. The center started as a small private facility but grew into a non-profit society. Over the years, it has expanded from 55 to almost 200 acres and hosts dozens of widely diverse species, including African hoofed animals such as the Addax, a rare desert antelope whose natural habitat is a few isolated regions of the Sahara. Among the many other carnivores, primates and birds that make their homes here are Andean condors, Masai giraffes, zebras, aardwolves, lemurs from Madagascar, cape hunting dogs and crowned cranes from Africa, South

animal wellness

American tapirs, cheetahs and clouded leopards. “I believe we have about 85 different species now,” says Tim. Most of the animals live in family groups in species-specific barns and outdoor enclosures. There are also catteries and an aviary complex. “The day pens range from several hundred square feet to many acres, depending on the size of the animal,” Tim explains. “They’re made to resemble as closely as possible the animals’ natural environments by adding the right types of trees, rocks if the animals come from rocky habitats, and so on.” Along with conservation and carefully controlled breeding, Mountain View’s goal is to introduce the animals back to their natural wild habitats. One of their ongoing re-introduction projects involves the Addax. Just last December,

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half a dozen of these graceful antelopes were shipped to Senegal Park in Africa, where they are acclimatizing to their new home under the watchful eye of participating conservationists in Senegal and Mali. Another six Addax will join them this year. “They’ll be in a sort of ‘halfway’ house to nature for about two years,” says Tim. Among the other species recently re-released into their natural habitats is a herd of twelve Cuvier’s gazelle, another animal native to Africa. “In Canada, meanwhile, we have pretty much doubled the population of the rare Oregon spotted frog,” Tim adds. “We released several hundred into protected areas. We’ve also had success breeding North America’s most endangered mammal, the Vancouver Island marmot. The best news is that captive born parents have now given birth in the wild to pups.” Mountain View is funded mainly by the Blanksteins, but it’s also supported by a few fund-raising events and some

corporate sponsorship. The center also offers private guided tours of the facility. “There are plans underway to build an educational center, as well as a housing facility so curators from different countries can come and stay and get to know the animals before they’re released into their care,” says Tim. “They’ll receive training here as well. We also want to install a backup power generating system in the event of emergencies like the storms we had this past winter.” Though accredited with the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the facility’s mission of reintroducing its animals back to the wild makes it uniquely different. “I visited Mountain View last year,” says Rob Laidlaw of Zoocheck Canada, a national animal protection charity that promotes and protects the interests and well being of wild animals. “They are not a public zoo, although they do have a small number of tours each week, and they do good conservation work.”

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How a rescued puppy

feature film on animal

inspired a

homelessness

by Judy Crozier

One evening, I was rushing to class at the University of Southern California when I saw a small puppy standing alone on the corner. I anxiously scanned the crowds at the crosswalk but no one appeared to be missing their pet. The frightened puppy looked up at each person as they walked by, begging with hopeful eyes for one of them to take him home. Hitting my hazard lights, I jumped out of my truck and called, “Does this puppy belong to anyone?” Everyone ignored me and walked on. I stepped closer to the puppy, checked him for a collar, and scooped him up. He trembled anxiously as we returned to my truck. I reassured him and offered him my sandwich, which he gobbled up in two bites. I learned that if I dropped him at the shelter, he had a 98% chance of being killed. So the little American Staffordshire terrier/pit bull mix, who I named Puff Monster, came home with me.

of animal rescue in Los Angeles. From that moment, I couldn’t stop seeing stray animals in the streets. “Somebody should do something,” I kept saying. Then I realized that “somebody” could be me. I was completing my Masters degree in screenwriting, so why not write a film about animal homelessness? I did some research and found there had never been a fictional feature film about someone who rescues animals. I also learned there has never been a film set in a shelter, and no main character has even been an animal control officer or shelter worker.

That was the beginning of what would be an eye-opening journey into the world

Around the same time, a friend told me of an ABC news story about a girl named

animal wellness

Sherri who founded a group called Sparky and the Gang. They rescued animals from the streets of Los Angeles, rehabbed them, and adopted them out at local pet supply stores. When I saw Sherri’s segment I was inspired to start writing, and loosely based my main character on her, a girl who virtually picks up every stray she comes across. Knowing the clock was ticking on thousands of homeless animals, I began shooting without a completed script or budget and with only $20 in my pocket. The filming process suffered some setbacks, from having to stop production to rescue stray or sick animals, to a terrible personal tragedy: one day, while I was out filming, an electrical fire claimed my home and the lives of Puff Monster and four other rescue animals. Despite my devastating grief, I carried on – it was because of Puff Monster that I began this journey, and it is because of all homeless animals that I didn’t give up. We filmed in Wyoming, Los Angeles and Long Beach at the old animal shelter before it

Movie poster (far left) and scenes from Free to a Good Home.

Photos © Judy Crozier

was torn down. My protagonist, played by actress Katherine Norland, works in a shelter; my goal was not to make the shelter the “bad guy”, but to show the public how we have become a society that accepts the idea of disposable pets. Now, five years later, Free to a Good Home (see www.freetoagoodhomemovie.com) is in the final stages of post-production and will be released late this year. The postproduction process has proved to be the biggest challenge of all, not only because of funding issues, but also because going over footage featuring Puff Monster and my other lost animals is monumentally painful.

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Throughout the entire production, the cast, crew and I became increasingly involved in animal rescue. To date, we have rescued over 100 animals between us. It seems a big step from rescuing one puppy to creating an ambitious feature film, but it’s a journey I was led on by the stray animals of Los Angeles. My hope is that the finished product will take us on the best journey of all – to a society where animal homelessness is a thing of the past.

Judy Crozier

is a writer, producer and

Self-Designed Bachelors degree in Scriptwriting and Producing from the University of Wyoming. She recently received a Masters in Screenwriting from the University of Southern California. Judy director who obtained a

has produced numerous short films and one-act plays, and several of her scripts

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animal wellness

Raising a

stink

How to remove the smell of skunk, naturally

M by Anthony Gollner

“My dog’s been skunked! He stinks and he’s frothing at the mouth. What do I do?” These are just a few of the frantic thoughts and questions that went through my mind when my dog Moka, an 80-pound shepherd-Rottweiler, was sprayed head-on by a skunk for the very first time. It was late at night, around ten. The pet stores and groomers were closed and the veterinarians said they don’t even want you near them under these circumstances. Skunk oil, or mercaptan, is a sulphuric spray that not only carries a terrible odor but is also sticky, making it very difficult to get out of an animal’s coat. Many have described the odor as a combination of burning rubber or plastic and pepper. A fresh spray smells so strong it can burn your nose. If your animal gets sprayed, it’s important to act quickly to get the skunk oil out and neutralized. If you don’t, the

animal wellness

Getting the skunk out Here are some methods I used on Moka the first night he got sprayed, and on two subsequent occasions, and how they worked. PRODUCT

DIRECTIONS

CONCLUSION

RECOMMENDED

Soak the dog’s coat with tomato juice for about five minutes. Rinse it off then bathe the dog thoroughly with a canine shampoo.

This method didn’t work very well. All it did was mask the odor for a short while, but the smell came back within a couple of minutes. It’s also been said that tomato juice can leave your dog’s coat with a reddish tinge. If your dog is white, it can actually turn the coat pink.

not recommended

Soak the dog’s coat for about five minutes, making sure to avoid contact with his eyes. Rinse it off, then bathe the dog thoroughly with shampoo.

This worked a little better than the tomato juice, but was difficult to use around the face area because vinegar stings when it gets in the eyes.

not recommended

Tomato juice

White vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda

H2O2 Chemist Paul Krebaum invented the following formula for getting rid of skunk odor.

This mixture will begin to fizz so combine the ingredients in an open bucket or bowl. Do not try to store or cover it in any way – the mixture will create pressure if enclosed in a container and can be explosive! 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup baking soda 1 teaspoon liquid soap Wet your dog and thoroughly massage the solution into the coat. Be sure to keep the mixture out of his eyes, nose and mouth. If it’s necessary to apply it to his face, very carefully use a washcloth or sponge. After applying the mixture to all the affected areas, rinse the dog thoroughly.

This worked better than the first two methods, but I found I still had to repeat the procedure two more times for the skunk oil to subside. Even then, there was still a faint odor.

Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover

This product is made with natural enzymes and interacts chemically with skunk oil to help neutralize it. It also contains alcohol, so be careful around your animal’s face, and avoid the eyes. I had to use it twice for it to really work.

NuHemp Botanicals Omega ZAPP Skunk Shampoo

This one worked really well. I was done within five minutes. One application and the skunk smell practically vanished. It’s made with tree essences from red cedar and pine that immediately neutralized the skunk oil and gave Moka’s coat a fresh, clean smell. www.kicxnutrition.com

recommended in a pinch

recommended

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Additional recommended products Skunks Etc. from Natural Chemistry is an all-natural non-toxic 5:1 concentrated enzyme product that you mix with water. It’s biodegradable and hypo-allergenic and can be safely used around the animal’s face. www.naturalchemistry.com

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smell can last up to two years, especially when the dog gets wet.

Take these precautions before bathing your dog 1. Leave him outside to prevent the odorridden oils from getting into your house.

2. Before handling him, put on some old clothes and wear rubber or latex gloves.

3. Determine where the skunk’s spray hit the dog. Depending on his hair type, you may be able to trim away or comb out the affected hair.

When you’re ready to wash your dog, clean only the sprayed area. Skunk spray is oily and can easily be spread to other non-affected areas. You will most likely have to bathe him more than once, so do the all-over bathing on the second or third washing.

Keeping skunks away If your animal is repeatedly sprayed, take steps to protect him from skunk encounters. Don’t let him roam, especially at night when skunks are active, and wildlife-proof your property by making sure there are no places they can get easy access to and set up house – such as under your deck or in a tool shed. If you have a composter, keep it free of meat wastes and don’t leave pet food outside where it can attract wild animals.

Now in her 20s, Becky is still healthy and happy.

How to grow a

22-year-old cat

In the fall of 1985, author and long-time kitty guardian Cathy Kingery adopted a young shelter cat she named Becky. At the time, Becky was around two years old; today, more than 20 years later, she’s still the picture of health. Cathy credits Becky’s longevity to a variety of factors, including a diet made from raw meat and organic vegetables. In her new self-published booklet, How to Grow a 22-Year-Old Cat (©2006 by Cathy Kingery), the author shares her secrets and tells how you can help your own cat live a long and healthy life. This abridged excerpt features five tips and suggestions that, together with a quality diet, pure water, and minimal vaccines can keep your kitty going strong for years to come.

First,

make sure you talk to your cat on a regular basis. Greet him or her when you awaken in the morning, when you come home from work, and anytime he/she seeks your company. You are the most important person in your cat’s life! When you talk to your cat, talk as if you were talking to a person. After all, you think of your cat as a member of the family, right? If you own more than one cat, make animal wellness

sure they all get equal amounts of your loving attention.

Second,

don’t forget the importance of play. Besides giving your cat great exercise, it provides a real bonding experience between owner and kitty. Even 22-year-old Becky needs her daily play fix. Sure, at her age, she plays for short, 10-minute spurts rather than for the hours-long marathon sessions in which kittens engage. But she still craves that exercise, shot of fun, and bonding experience. And she lets me know if I am ever lax about spending some playtime with her. She will direct me to the area of my home where the toys are kept and urge me to play with her NOW!

Third,

give your cat a mini-massage every so often. Some cats don’t like to be touched too much, but experiment and see if yours likes it. Try rubbing between the shoulder blades, the one spot on their bodies that cats can’t reach. Lots of cats find this very enjoyable. Others like a bit of rubbing on the chest, or on the lower back at the base of the tail. Still others like a belly rub. Whatever type of massage you decide to try, start slowly, experiment on different spots on your cat’s body, and try using different degrees of pressure. Observe your cat’s reactions carefully to see what strikes his/her fancy. Not only is this a great bonding experience for you and your cat, it’s also beneficial for your cat’s circulation and overall well-being.

Fourth,

try giving your cat some grass. I have owned cats in the past that turned up their noses at it, but some cats (Becky included) think of it as a special treat. Some cats especially like to eat it to calm an upset stomach. You can pick some grass in your yard and present it to your kitty

animal wellness

every so often (as long as the grass hasn’t been treated with pesticides or other chemicals), or you can purchase one of those “indoor kitty grass gardens” from a pet-supply store. Fair warning: Some cats vomit after eating grass, especially if their stomachs are upset. Sometimes Becky will do so after she eats it, sometimes not. The first time you let your cat have some, allow him/her to eat just a little, and then slowly build up to letting him/her eat more.

Finally,

keep your cat indoors. The belief that cats “need” to go outdoors to be happy is a myth. But the hazards of traffic, predatory animals, and obstacles such as wire fencing and wild-animal traps are very real. Indoor cats can get all the fresh air and sunshine they need from open windows and from sitting in sunny spots in your home. Becky has been an indoor cat ever since I adopted her. It can be difficult to keep a cat indoors after he/she has become used to being an outdoor cat, but with patience it can be done. Compromises are also possible. When I was a teenager, I taught our family cat to walk with me on a leash. Pet-supply outfits now sell outdoor cat runs that allow a cat to be outside but in a protected enclosure. Any veterinarian will tell you that the average lifespan of a cat that is allowed to roam outdoors is much shorter than the typical lifespan of an indoor cat. You want your feline pal to be around for a long time, don’t you?

To order How to Grow a 22-Year-Old Cat, send a check or money order

$4.95 to Cathy Kingery, 346 Circle Road, Manchester, NH 03103 or e-mail cathy.kingery@gmail.com. for

MASSACHUSETTS

ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Wellness Resource Guide

ONTARIO

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

Inside this issue:

East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 757-3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Website: www.holisticpetvet.com

â&#x20AC;¢ Integrative Veterinarians â&#x20AC;¢ Holistic Healthcare â&#x20AC;¢ Massage Therapy â&#x20AC;¢ Natural Product Retailers â&#x20AC;¢ Natural Product Manufacturers & Distributors â&#x20AC;¢ Reiki Therapy â&#x20AC;¢ Schools & Wellness Education â&#x20AC;¢ Shelters & Rescues â&#x20AC;¢ Trainers & Behaviorists â&#x20AC;¢ TTouch Therapy â&#x20AC;¢ Communicators

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

Guelph Animal Hospital Guelph, ON Canada Phone: (519) 836-2782 Email: info@guelphvet.com Website: www.guelphvet.com

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communication

animal communication Everything you wanted to know about

Take a look into those soulful brown eyes or that wise whiskered face. No one who loves animals can deny that dogs and cats are more intelligent than most people think. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to talk with them, find out what’s going on in their minds or what messages they might have for us?

Animal communication is the way to do this, but it’s a subject most people have a lot of questions about. How exactly does it work? Can anyone do it? Does it require a “sixth sense”? How do I know it’s not all just imagination or wishful thinking? For this article, we asked several top animal communicators and intuitives to answer some of the most common questions about this profound way to connect with our canine and feline friends. The answers may surprise you, and will also help you add another dimension to the bond you share with your beloved companion.

How does animal communication work?

Talking with our animal companions is one of the most wonderful things. We communicate with rather than to animals, and this is done through telepathy. Telepathy is a soul-to-soul connection. It

messages from one participant mind to another, though without the use of speech or any other signs or symbols, but rather through pictures, feelings, emotions or just knowing. For example, the radio station or sender (your animal companion) sends out a message, and your radio receiver (you) translates them into words, or vice versa.

Claudia Hehr is an animal communicator based in Alliston, Ontario. She has studied with renowned communicator Penelope Smith, and is also a Reiki Master. She has experience in canine psychology and animal

If Only Animals Could Talk. www.claudiahehr.com homeopathy and is the author of

makes it possible to have a real conversation, including questions and answers, with our animal companions. It allows us to communicate with all animals, even those who have left their physical bodies, because the soul never dies. The wonderful thing about telepathy it that it has no distance restrictions. You can compare it with a radio. It transmits

Can anyone learn to communicate with animals, or do you need a “sixth sense”? I believe everyone can learn to commune with their animals. In fact, I feel it’s their birthright and something that can be “remembered”, rather than learned animal wellness

anew. I say this because I believe all species, including humans, did this naturally in the past, but many of us have simply forgotten how. For some, “remembering” how to do this may be a little easier based on their past experiences or “gifts”, but it is certainly open to anyone with a strong desire and intention to learn. I liken communing with animals to that of embarking on a spiritual journey, one that involves learning processes like meditation, quieting the mind, opening the heart, grounding yourself and doing lots of inner emotional work so we may trust ourselves and also be trustworthy.

Are some animals more communicative than others? In communion with an animal, you are merging with his entire experience (from before birth to the present). This gives a wholistic picture of the animal, including past experience, how it reflects in the animal’s health and behavior now, and how all can evolve to the highest potential of the individual in the future. With merging, one bypasses the superficial level of conversation and goes right to the heart of things where an overview is possible. On the level of personality, dogs and cats have learned from us how to comment on their life as it goes along the same way we do, only without language. On this level each animal is as uniquely different as each person: some are excellent communicators and others are not. It is for this reason that bypassing the superficial level of communication and going directly into a merged state of presence with the animal reveals the most useful information. Sharon Callahan is a world-renowned animal communicator and the creator of

Anaflora Flower Essences. She is also Healing Animals Naturally with Flower Essences and Intuitive Listening. www.anaflora.com author of

These practices enable us to be open conduits to receive and perceive information from our animal companions more clearly, and without judgments. Lynn McKenzie is a natural born Intuitive and Empath. Trained in Animal Communication by pioneer specialist Penelope Smith, Lynn is also a Certified Spiritual Psychotherapist, and Subtle Energy Healer. Visit www.AnimalEnergy.com for her free mini audio course, Making the Heart Connection, to help readers learn to commune with their animals.

animal wellness

How do I know I’m truly communicating and not just imagining it? It’s like anything else. The only way to truly know is to practice and trust first messages. These messages will become clearer and stronger, and the animals themselves will go out of their way to make sure you get what they need you to know, because you are open and willing to have that relationship with them. Pay special attention just before you go to sleep and after you wake up. That’s

when mind chatter is quiet, and your animal can get through. Then always follow through on what you receive; by listening, you may help avoid a bad situation. If you think you’re wrong, and stop, your animal will stop trying too.

One reason I keep my communication classes small is so that I can ask the animals we work with the same questions the students do, to help further clarify any pictures or feelings, and to give them the confidence they need to continue on their own at home. Lydia Hiby has been working as an animal communicator for 24 years. She has a Veterinary Technician degree from SUNY Delhi, NY, and worked in eight different hospitals. Her book Conversations with Animals has been translated in Japan and Korea. Lydia also teaches classes, and has been featured on many television shows

48Hours, The Late Show with Dave Letterman and The View. including

What is the difference between body language and communication? Body language is a non-verbal demonstration used by animals (and humans) to convey emotions, attitudes, or warnings. It’s an indicator of what the animal is feeling right now, and the signals can be simple or quite complex. We need to be present with the animal to observe these signals and translation can be difficult, leading to possible misinterpretation and consequent misunderstanding. Telepathic communication is a two-way

animal wellness

exchange of information between animals and humans. It involves an interchange of subtle energies which may include thoughts, feelings, concepts and images. This provides understandings and insights which may encompass a wide range of information such as background, reasons behind behaviors, likes and dislikes and even areas such as life purpose. The animal need not be physically present, and distance is not an obstacle. Telepathic communication allows us to clearly understand the animal’s messages and is a far deeper means of communication, even extending to the level of Spirit. Sue Becker is

an internationally-known

animal communicator as well as a registered

Bach Flower Remedies Tellington TTouch. She works with emotional, behavioral and wellness issues practitioner for and

and helps people deepen their understanding and connection with their animal friends through consultations, workshops, presentations and telecourses. suebecker@cyg.net.

Is communication something you need to practice? Practicing any skill is always an excellent idea because it increases your ability and builds confidence. The same is true of animal communication. The more you

animal wellness

practice and affirm the content of your readings, the more confidence you gain. And the more accurate you become. Practice also helps the communicator understand the difference between the animal’s story, the person’s emotional issues that may be part of the story, and any emotional issues that may come up for the communicator that could distort the animal’s story. Practice allows the communicator to perceive the difference and thus stay in integrity with the original intent – that of communicating to understand the animal’s story. Practice also allows you to work with different personalities and experiences. Like humans, animals are all individuals, and different approaches may be needed to get to the story of each one. Barbara Reed is an Animal Communicator and Intuitive Healer practicing and teaching in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a Masters of Intuition Medicine® Certificate (MIM) from the Academy of Intuition Medicine® in Sausalito, California. Barbara specializes in emotional and spiritual issues, including life changes and transitions, behavioral issues, and understanding life lessons. Call 415.821.9349 or email barbara@intuitionforanimals.com.

How can I use communication to tell when something is wrong with my animal? If you have an urge to go look at your animal, or find you are suddenly thinking of him more than usual, you are encouraged to follow through and make sure everything is okay. Animals communicate with pictures, emotions, and sometimes their voices.

They can be quite persistent in getting your attention. Quite often it is not for them, but for something they feel is important for you to understand. Your intuition with your animal companions can often be more powerful than what you see. Just looking in the normal way can limit our understanding. When you notice a change in how you are feeling about your animal, check in further with your intuitive self. Listen to this. The animal may look fine, but you

may be sensing that something is not quite right. Follow your intuition.

improved dramatically and started to enjoy life again.

Maia Kincaid, Ph.D. is celebrating over 11 years of bringing joy to people and their animals through animal communication. She delights in working with clients to awaken their communication skills. She is also dedicated to working with people who are sincerely ready to experience a complete life through intuitive life coaching consultations.

Visit www.maiakincaid.com or call 928-282-2604.

Can communication be used to help with health issues? Communication can help on many levels. We can receive information about how animals are feeling, including pain, discomfort or other sensations, and where these are located. Although medically not able to diagnose, communicators may obtain information to pinpoint problem areas when veterinary diagnosis is unclear, and can relay details about the quality of discomfort – for example, pain, pressure or nausea. I communicated with a very sick little dog who was about to be euthanized. He told me he felt his medications were making him sick. When the veterinarian changed the medications, the dog

Dogs and cats commonly experience back-related pain that triggers behavioral problems. When shared with a communicator and relayed to their person, many behaviors are resolved simply by a visit to the chiropractor! A communicator can also ask the animal what would help him feel better, and can provide emotional support by reassuring him and hearing his fears. The animal’s family is then empowered to further support the animal, while a deeper understanding is fostered between them. Sue Becker is an internationally-known animal communicator as well as a registered practitioner for Bach Flower Remedies and Tellington TTouch. She works with emotional, behavioral and wellness issues and helps people deepen their understanding and connection with their animal friends through consultations, workshops, presentations and telecourses. suebecker@cyg.net.

How can I use communication to help my animal cope with stressful situations? Because the connection we have with our animals is love-based, they feel or sense the stress we are feeling or reacting to. Communication can be used to explain upcoming situations or experiences your animal needs to know about. It is a very effective way to assure him that his routine and needs are a top priority and will still be met.

Animals can cope with most stressful situations if they are told what will happen beforehand. If you are using an animal communicator, she can convey to you how the animal thinks or feels about a stressful situation and how much it is impacting his health or sense of well-being. When faced with stress, animals can react

animal wellness

with destructive behavior, inappropriate elimination, excessive barking or gastrointestinal upsets. Often, what you view as unacceptable behavior is merely an animal releasing stress that he can’t express or deal with in any other way. Most communicators are also knowledgeable about T-Touch, flower essences, and other appropriate strategies to help both you and your animal cope with stress.

Charlene Boyd

is a lifelong animal

lover who was inspired by her bearded collie,

Desmond, to become an animal She has studied with several well-known communicators, and also uses Healing Touch, Reiki and flower essence therapy. Her goal communicator.

as a communicator is to help people and animals understand one another’s viewpoint.

Can communication be used in training or to deal with behavioral issues? Shamanic animal communication can profoundly help in dealing with training and behavioral issues because the roots of the problem are often hidden in the animal’s emotional memory. They are

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often acting out of reactions to traumas that left an imprint on them of fear, anger, or other resistive emotions. The shamanistic communicator works with the animal to uncover the past’s secrets, and heal the pain that is stuck in them, like a bullet that was never removed, or a bruise that never healed. Sometimes the situation isn’t so complex, and we learn that the animal has a need that is relatively easy to meet. No matter what, communication makes our relationships with our animals simple again – we just ask our animal to tell us what they want and need! We help heal their underlying troubles, and then we work on mutually agreeable outcomes. Carla Meeske Person is a shamanic practitioner in Glendale, Arizona. She is a member of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies and The Society for Shamanic Practitioners. Carla has trained with the Foundation in soul retrieval, power animal retrieval, death and dying, divination and healing, and completed the Foundation’s three year training program in 2000.

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what's gnu? Can’t afford cancer treatment? Cancer is almost endemic in our dogs and cats, but the cost of treatment, depending on what the animal requires, can be out of reach for many people. Laurie Kaplan, author of Help Your Dog Fight Cancer, is helping those less fortunate with her newly-founded Magic Bullet Fund, designed for those who have dogs with cancer but can’t afford treatment. You can contribute to the fund by making a donation, or by purchasing merchandise including T-shirts, wristbands, a Brave Spirits 2007 calendar, or a sterling silver lapel pin. www.themagicbulletfund.org

Dog massage for kids Massage is a wonderful way to bond with your animal, and it’s not just for grown-ups. PetMassage’s new DVD A Kid’s Guide to Massaging Dogs shows youngsters how to treat their dogs to this gentle healing modality. Created for children five years and up, the hour-long DVD teaches kids the difference between massage and petting, and how they can use all their senses while doing massage. It shows them how to practice massage techniques on stuffed animals before applying them to their dogs. www.petmassage.com

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Why shouldn’t leashes be attractive as well as practical? Flexi has introduced a new retractable leash that combines fashion with function. Flexi Elégance is made for small to medium-sized dogs and features a sleek painted mirror finish casing in eight different colors, a chrome snap hook, and a two-colored tape leash with noble leather trimming. Along with its luxurious appearance, the leash includes Flexi’s patented one-hand-operated braking and retracting system. It extends to 16’ for canines who like to step out in style. Choose a matching patent leather collar in the same line. www.flexiusa.com

Corticosteroids are among the most overused medications in conventional veterinary medicine and are frequently prescribed for a wide range of disorders. But they’re not without side effects; long term use can cause a variety of problems, such as kidney disease. Yucca Intensive from Azmira is a safe, natural alternative to these drugs. Yucca contains steroidal saponins, which have a powerful antiinflammatory effect and work rapidly to relieve symptoms, including the pain of arthritis and the itching associated with allergies. The company uses only pure concentrated standardized yucca extract, which yields more than 85% bioavailable saponins. www.azmira.com

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DMG makes a difference A strong immune system can protect your dog or cat from a range of diseases, including allergies, arthritis and cancer. Pet Naturals of Vermont can help keep your best friend in good health with their recently introduced Immune System for Dogs and Immune Support for Cats. The products offer your companion the benefits of N-Dimethylglycine (DMG), a compound shown to enhance immunity by boosting lymphycyte (T-cells) and antibody production, and that provides antioxidant and joint support. www.petnaturals.com

Good news from New Hampshire There’s been a lot of publicity lately about the cruelty of dog racing. These greyhounds suffer long periods of confinement in cages barely large enough for them to stand in, and are also at high risk for serious injury on the track, including broken bones, torn muscles and even paralysis. New Hampshire is one state that wants to see some changes. A bill is about to be introduced that would phase out commercial dog racing in the state by 2009. The measure is receiving widespread support from nearly two dozen lawmakers as well as community leaders, non-profit organizations and local animal shelters. Find out more at www.VoteForTheDogs.org.

Screening test for lymphoma Cream of the crop Humboldt Creamery, one of the largest producers of ice cream and milk in the western U.S., has received the American Humane Association’s Free Farmed certification. The program provides verification that farm animals are raised humanely, in accordance with animal welfare standards set forth by American Humane. Certified producers must ensure that animals have ready access to fresh water, a nutritious diet and medical care. They must also provide a comfortable environment that limits stress and enables animals to freely express their normal behaviors: Humboldt’s cows roam and graze freely in open pasture most of the year. The company uses natural ingredients and offers a line of organic products. www.americanhumane.org or www.humboldtcreamery.com

A new screening test for lymphoma, a common cancer in companion animals, has been launched by the U.K.-based company PetScreen. “The screen is now available through your veterinarian, who will take a very small amount of blood and then send it to the PetScreen labs for testing,” says Audi Donamor, founder of the Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund for animals. “Since this test is new in the U.S, your vet may not yet have all the details. If you’re interested in having it done, send PetScreen your veterinarian’s contact information, and they will get in touch with him or her.” www.smilingblueskies.com or www.pet-screen.com Dr. Kevin Slater and Prof. Graeme Radcliffe are the founding partners of PetScreen. animal wellness

passages

How to know when it’ s time to say goodbye by Eric L. Nelson, MS, MA, and Sharon Zito, DVM

“I still wonder if there was something more I could have done,” says Margaret, tears in her eyes, after having her elderly dog euthanized. Her feelings are typical of someone who has just lost a companion animal. It’s common to be tormented by doubts and regrets. It’s also normal to question your judgment about deciding to euthanize, and to speculate if the animal might have lived longer.

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This difficult time in an animal lover’s life would be less painful if there was a way to tell with greater certainty when the time has come to say goodbye. Many factors contribute to this decision. Some, such as debilitating pain or discomfort that no longer respond to any treatment, are indicators for euthanasia. Others factors, however, are less clear.

In this article, we present three methods to help you make that decision. Refer to all three to fully evaluate the animal’s circumstances. These guidelines should also be used with the understanding that you and your vet are already doing everything you can to alleviate pain, discomfort and other symptoms.

1. Quality of life As an animal ages, or the course of a disease progresses, the quality of her life experience will deteriorate. For example, a young cat can easily jump up on the couch, whereas an older cat with arthritis will reach a point where she can no longer jump at all. This assessment evaluates an animal’s decreasing quality of life using seven categories of experience.

Walking: 8 3 1

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Arising: 8 3

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Eating and drinking: Is not eating and/or drinking Losing weight and/or dehydrated

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Playfulness: 3 1

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Toileting: 8 8 3

Urinates or defecates on self Painful urination or defecation on a chronic basis Cannot hold urine or feces indoors, has accidents

Affection: 5 3 1

Shows aggression when approached (fangs, growling) No longer shows affection even when petted or rubbed Only shows affection when lying down

Here’s an example of the areas we cover:

Artificial Life Prolongation (ALP):

• Behavior & Handling

Recommendation table

• Massage theory

8 5 3

Is on 3+ ALP measures Is on 2 ALP measures Is on 1 ALP measure

• Anatomy & Physiology • Kinesiology • First aid

Total points:

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1-3 Re-assess every 90 days 4-7 Re-assess every 30 days 8+ Consider euthanasia

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2. Pain assessment

This method allows you to estimate how much pain an animal is experiencing. Unfortunately, animals do not speak in human language, so they cannot tell us how much pain they are in. You must therefore look for behavioral signs that can be interpreted as indicators of pain.

8 4 2 1

Cries or moans when moving or re-positioning Avoids all but necessary activities such as eating or toileting Cannot climb stairs or inclines Stiffness

Call 1.877.836.3703 or go to www.nwsam.Com today.

Total points: NWSAM_AnimWellness.indd 1

animal wellness

11/16/06 3:06:42 PM

When is it OK to let him pass naturally? by Ann Brightman Some people prefer to let their animals pass without the assistance of euthanasia. This is a viable option in cases where the animal reaches the end of his life free of serious pain or other physical and mental distress or suffering, and remains calm and peaceful as death approaches. A natural passage can help you deal with your anxiety and uncertainty, give you a sense of closure, and serve as a profound learning experience about death, a transition most of us fear. Most people who witness a natural passing report that their animals were unafraid and died quietly and with dignity. Here’s what else you need to know: •Educate yourself about the stages of death, so you’ll know what to expect. •Be available to help and serve your animal, but don’t fret and fuss over him. •Make sure to take care of yourself, too. •If you feel anxious or panicky, try breathing deeply and slowly. A short walk in the fresh air can also help, as can a few drops of Rescue Remedy on your tongue. •A variety of flower essences and homeopathic remedies can aid both you and your animal at this time. The homeopathic remedy Arsenicum Album (1M or 10M) in water can help him transition smoothly. •If he wants to eat, offer him his favorite foods. Don’t try to force him to eat. •Administering IV or subcutaneous fluids can be soothing to the body; ask your vet for advice. •Stick to your normal routine as closely as possible. This will be a comfort to the animal.

3. Insight This method is subjective and does not generate scores that can be checked on a table. Instead, you answer three questions in the way you feel your animal would: 1. Do I want to be alive any longer? 2. Do I still enjoy life? 3. Am I ready to go? The answers help illuminate your animal’s wishes. When you put yourself in her mind this way, you may find she wants to be released, even though you are not ready to let go. The desires of the animal should always be honored over our own as a final act of love and respect. The decision to euthanize a beloved companion is always going to be painful. Our dogs and cats bring such joy into our lives. But there’s comfort in having some guidelines to assist you in making that final decision. These three assessment methods can reduce decision-making anxiety, and give you a clearer indication of when it may be time to send your friend ahead, to wait for you on the other side.

•If you feel you need extra support, or wish to understand more about your animal’s wishes or feelings, consider consulting an animal communicator. (see page 94) •Above all, peacefully give your companion permission to go, with love and respect, when it’s time for him to pass.

Corrie’s case Corrie was a 14-year-old German shepherd whose quality of life assessment numbers were: stiff (1), arises slowly (3), and limited playfulness (1), for a score of 5. This was not an indication for euthanasia, but simply called for re-evaluation every 30 days. One day, Corrie began to cry in pain when she got up. This continued for two days, so was not a transient symptom. Medication and other therapies no longer eased her discomfort. Using the pain assessment method, Corrie’s score was 8, suggesting she had reached the stage where euthanasia was a consideration.

animal wellness

How can communication help with the end-of-life phase? Animal Wellness asked two top animal communicators, Kim Ogden-Avrutik, Dr.P.H. and Lydia Hiby, for their guidance. Explains Kim, “Most people have a lot of questions about this stage in their animal’s life” • • • • • • •

Is your pet a little sensitive?

Is he in pain? If so, where and how much? Does he feel he had a good and happy life with you? Does he think it’s time to go, or does he want to stay? Can he give me a sign when he’s ready to go? Does he want some assistance for the transition (euthanasia)? Where would he like to be buried or have his ashes spread? Will he come back for a “visit”, or return to me in another form?

I have found that animals are very focused and communicative in regard to these questions. They want to be happy and they really want us to be happy! Sometimes, they ask for a party, or other wonderful and special things, usually small to us, but huge to them. I encourage people to grant these requests, if possible. Not only does it satisfy their animal friend, but it also makes the person feel better by knowing she did all she could for her beloved friend.” Lydia adds: “If you already have good communication with your animal, than you are truly “listening” to your intuition, besides just observing his daily behavior. Determining when he is ready to go is based not just on whether or not he’s still eating, but when you both know he has lived enough. Many of the calls I receive are from people wanting to confirm the answer to that very question; at that point I am only verifying what the guardian already knows in her heart, and what the animal has been trying to tell her.”

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Kim Ogden-Avrutik, Dr. P.H., is an intuitive animal communicator and a regular guest on TV and radio stations around the world. She’s also the author of Ask the Animals and has created a CD, Songs to Make Dogs Happy, and a DVD entitled How to Communicate with your Animal Friends. www.kimogden.com. Lydia Hiby

24 years. She SUNY Delhi in New York state, and worked in eight different hospitals including the first feline clinic, The Cat Practice, in NYC. Her book Conversations with Animals has been translated in Japan and Korea, and is in its third printing. Lydia also teaches classes, and has been featured on many television shows including 48 Hours, The Late Show with Dave Letterman and The View. has been working as an animal communicator for

has a degree in

Veterinarian Technician

from

book reviews Title:

We've Got Feelings Too!

Author:

Carolyn B. Matlack, JD

Guardian or owner? Pet or property? The legislation surrounding companion animal terminology is a vexed subject. Animal lawyer Carolyn Matlack tackles the issue in We’ve Got Feelings Too! Presenting the Sentient Property Solution. This highly readable book takes an autobiographical look at the author’s decision to quit her corporate job at age 50 and go back to school to study animal law. Inspired by the late Jolene Marion, an animal law attorney who devoted her life to improving the lives of animals, Matlack talks about how she embarks on her new career, defending animals and their human caregivers in a number of emotionally charged cases. Incorporating years of research with true events and case studies, We’ve Got Feelings Too! strives to open people’s eyes to the idea that animals should not be viewed as inanimate objects in a court of law, but as thinking, feeling beings whose needs deserve to be addressed and met. Publisher: Log Cabin Press

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Keeping your dog looking good between groomer appointments can be challenging, especially if she has a long coat. The Pet Owner’s Guide to Dog Grooming can help. Written by professional groomer Laureen Osborne, this book takes you step by step through the process of grooming your own dog at home. The book opens with a comprehensive discussion of the various grooming tools and equipment you’ll need, including clippers, combs, brushes, nail file and shears. It also provides tips on setting up a grooming area. The following chapters take you through the grooming procedure and show you a range of techniques, including de-matting, brushing, bathing, ear cleaning, clipping and nail care. A grooming checklist and a grooming chart for different breeds rounds out the text. Whether your best friend is a sheepdog or a shih tzu, this book will help you keep her looking beautiful. Publisher: Larkspur Publications

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GET YOUR PHOTOS IN for our 5th Annual

Amazing Animals Photo Contest! Enter our Amazing Animals Photo Contest and you could win one of many prizes up for grabs, plus your photo will appear in an upcoming issue of Animal Wellness Magazine for all to see. What a great tribute to your special friend! You can enter in one of the categories below, or simply let our judges choose which category fits best. Enter by April 13, 2007 for your chance to win.

2006 "Best Photo" winner by Phillip DeZwarte, Portage, MI

The rules are simple: 1. Send a digital photo, scanned at a minimum of 5"x7", at 300 dpi resolution in a tif, jpeg or pdf format to: photos@animalwellnessmagazine.com or send a good quality hard copy original photo (not a color photocopy) of your animal to: Photo Contest, Animal Wellness Magazine, US: PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122

• Best photo • Most artistic • Best bond (human/animal) • Biggest attitude • Best nature-lover

• Funniest • Best smile • Best eyes • Most athletic • Best pals

short description of the photo. Hard copy photos must have contact information printed on the back of the photo.

3. You may submit a maximum of two photos of each animal in your home. 4. All photos become property of Redstone Media Group. Redstone

CAN: 164 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2

Media Group reserves the right to publish all photos in Animal Wellness Magazine, and on our website. We regret that photos cannot be returned.

2. Please remember to include your name, address and telephone

5. Winners will be notified by phone or mail and winning photos will

number, along with your animal's name, sex and age (if known) and a

appear in a future issue of Animal Wellness.

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events March 18,2007 – Pasadena, CA

April 14-15, 2007 – St. Norbert, NB

Animal Communication Workshop Spring Seminar Series at the Pasadena Humane Society.Lydia Hiby, animal communicator for the past 24 years teaches her basic class for anyone to learn to communicate with their own pets. The fee is $350.00 per person for the six hour class, includes a 15 page notebook, and one on one guidance from Lydia with each pet and person that attends. Live pets are welcome or photos. Please call the office to register. Pasadena Humane Society Lydia Hiby • (661) 269-4647 mysticviz@aol.com • www.lydiahiby.com

Pet First Aid Certification Course The course will provide pet lovers with the necessary information and skills to stabilize an injured animal until qualified veterinarian care is accessed. Plenty of hands-on, first aid manual and mini herbal first aid kit. Treetops • (506) 785-2273 info@treetopsweb.com • www.treetopsweb.com

March 23-25, 2007 – Chantilly, VA Super Pet Expo Whether you have a passion for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, rabbits, or other pets, Super Pet Expo has it all! Hundreds of products for your pet. Pet adoptions – apply at the Expo! Free special exhibits. Live entertainment. Dog shows. With thousands of pet lovers under one roof, Super Pet Expo is sure to be one shopping-packed, entertaining, educational fun-filled weekend! (866) SUPER-PET info@superpetexpo.com • www.superpetexpo.com/am

March 25, 2007 – Redondo Beach, CA Fido & Friends Walk Join The Wellness Community-South Bay Cities for their 3rd annual Fido and Friends event – A fundraising walk for dog lovers and their friends to raise money for cancer patients. Festivities that day include: K-9 demonstration Animal Adoption Fair, Best Doggie Costume and more! A $50.00 pledge entry fee includes a free T-Shirt, doggie bandana, and a fabulous doggie goodie bag. Call (310) 376-3550 for more details and a registration form. Sunday, March 25, 2007. Veterans Park in Redondo Beach, CA. (309 Esplanade, corner of Catalina & Torrance Blvd.) Redondo Beach, CA 90277. Registration at 9am, walk begins at 10am. Jeannie Schmidt • (310) 376-3550 www.wellnessandcancer.org/dogwalk.htm

April 1, 2007 – Acton, CA Cesar Chavez’s Birthday Celebrate the birthday of Cesar Chavez, one of the greatest social activists of our time and a passionate advocate for animals. We’ll have a day filled with tours, presentations, music, food, and other fun activities for the entire family. Don’t miss spending this great day with Christy Chavez and our 150 animal friends. Let’s all continue Chavez’s work of spreading justice and promoting compassion for all living beings. Together, SI SE PUEDE! Sunday, April 1 Noon -4PM Animal Acres • Estela Diaz Carmona •(661) 269-5404 info@animalacres.org • www.animalacres.org

April 22, 2007 – Woodland Hills, CA Nuts for Mutts Dog Show & Fair The 6th Annual Nuts for Mutts Dog Show and Pet Fair. April 22nd (Rain date May 6th) Pierce College, Woodland Hills, CA • (818) 710-9898 info@nutsformutts.com • www.nutsformutts.org

April 24-26, 2007 – Grafton, WI Evaluation & Ethics: the Business of Animal Massage This class includes an overview of all body systems and an in-depth examination of canine and feline skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology along with basic first-aid/CPR and emergency acupressure for shock and trauma. Linda J. Strewlow, Blue Sky Educational • (262) 692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

April 28th 2007 – St. Norbert, NB Herbal and Aromatherapy For Companion Animals and Horses Participants will learn about the qualities of herbs – what parts of the plant have healing properties; contraindications and precautions when using herbal remedies. Participants will also learn about the qualities and benefits of aromatherapy oils. Treetops • (506) 785-2273 info@treetopsweb.com • www.treetopsweb.com

May 1-4, June 14-17, July 9-12, September 10-13, October 2-5, 2007 – Circleville, OH Canine Massage Workshop, Level 1 Sports and relaxation massage techniques, canine behavior, body language, physiology and canine anatomy are part of the curriculum. Safety, ethics and record keeping are discussed. Students are welcome to bring your canine companions, if possible. Small, handson classes. Lodging available. Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc., 7041 Zane Trail Road, Circleville, OH 43113 Rebecca Bangert, Office Manager • (800) 251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net • www.integratedtouchtherapy.com

May 5-6, 2007 – Chicago, IL Small Animal Acupressure This course offers you the ability to perform a complete acupressure treatment protocol and an understanding of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concepts and

theories underlying acupressure. Since Acupressure is based on TCM, we will explore this ancient science and guide you in learning how to help your animals feel their best. There are no prerequisites to this course. A Certificate of Completion for 30 LUs or 16 CEUs is available after successfully passing an open book, take-home examination plus 2 Case Studies. Kim Bauer • (541) 352-6729 kim@animalacupressure.com www.animalacupressure.com

May 6-9 & June 20-30, 2007 – Circleville, OH Canine Massage Workshop, Level 2 Canine Massage, Level 2 Prerequisite, Canine 1. Additional anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, business applications and joint movements as well as gait analysis are discussed. Ethics, business practices and networking discussions will be held. Dogs are welcome. Small classes taught by a licensed massage therapist with over 14 years' experience. Lodging available. Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc., 7041 Zane Trail Road, Circleville, OH 43113 Rebecca Bangert, Office Manager • (800) 251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net • www.integratedtouchtherapy, Inc.

May 9-13, 2007 – San Francisco, CA Counseling & Problem Solving Workshop This exceptional and experiential workshop, facilitated by Dr. Jeri Ryan, was developed to teach participants techniques, skills and perspectives valuable in solving typical situations and challengaes in animal communication work. It was designed to expand understanding and compassion toward people and animal clients with an open heart, while developing the expertise needed to assist in even the most difficult situations. Prerequisite of Assisi’s Skills Development Workshop or a basic animal communication workshop with any teacher. Part of Assisi’s Professional Animal Communicator Certification Program. May be taken for edification purposes without pursuing certification. Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA Workshop Coordinator • (510) 532-5800 Education@AssisiAnimals.org • AssisiAnimals.org

May 12, 2007 – Acton, CA Compassion Into Action Festival Join us for a fun and educational event with veggie food booths, cruelty-free product exhibitors, music, films, farm tours, book signings, and presentations from noted movement speakers with a focus on what YOU can do to help farmed animals. If you know someone who loves animals (but still eats them) bring them to unique living and learning festival! Saturday, May 12 Noon-6PM. Animal Acres Estela Diaz Carmona • (661) 269-5404 info@animalacres.org • www.animalacres.org

Post your event online at: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events animal wellness

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classifieds 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, (928) 649-1103. 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 (315) 329-0116 angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org. INSPIRING ANIMAL MESSAGES – Allow your own animals, dolphins, whales, any species, alive or in spirit, to offer Inspired Guidance in your life. Personal coaching from animals sharing their Unconditional Loving Wisdom. Satisfaction Guaranteed 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 WONDERING WHAT YOUR ANIMAL IS THINKING or feeling, experiencing behaviour or emotional problems with them? Have concerns about their death or dying? To request a telepathic communication go to www.komfortkonnections.com. ANIMAL SPIRIT HEALING & EDUCATION NETWORK™ Teleclass training modules and onsite courses. Animal Communication, Animal Reiki, Grief Support Skills, Tellington TTouch, Shamanic Healing, Flower Essences, Essential Oils, Species Behavior, Lost Animals, Marketing & Business Development. www.animalspiritnetwork.com, Carol Schultz at (815) 254-8325 Patrice Ryan – Vital Life Energy Healer for people and pets. Featured tv,documentary and radio interviews. Available for telephone Readings and On-Site Energy Work. (818) 241-2624 PatriceRyan.com

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PetAlive.com – Proven herbal and homeopathic remedies for cats and dogs, including kennel cough, UTI, cancer, parasites, joints and more. Treat your pet the natural way! Wholesale/retail/ affiliate inquiries welcome. Visit http://www.petalive.com?cmp=ah07

Holistic Breeders

Associations

Holistic Veterinarians

INTERNATIONAL ASSN. FOR ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK – www.IAAMB.org Professional association supports, networks and promotes complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, referrals, newsletters, insurance, conferences, lobbying and credentialing. Welcome practitioners of animal massage and bodywork. (800) 903-9350

Behavior & Training DOGS and FOLKS Dog Behavior Consulting Gloria Ascher, IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Sensitive approach to understanding, preventing, and resolving simple to complex dog behavior problems. Phone consultations. www.dogsandfolks.com (530) 468-2770

Books & Publications SOLVE YOUR DOG AND CAT’S HEALTH PROBLEMS AT HOME QUICKLY AND EASILY – even if you’ve tried everything else and failed miserably! “This book allowed me to save $350 by treating my cat’s abscess at home.” FREE DETAILS at www.VetPetSecrets.com

Business Opportunities PET LOVERS WANTED – Join a team of home based business owners. Great tax deductions. Earn $700-3,000/mo. very part time. Not sales. Do what you already do. Call Michelle at (561) 702 5459. www.oxyfreshww.com/michelle/ DEALERS WANTED – Can be home-based. Earn income selling THE ALL NATURAL ELECTROLYTE DRINK!... for dogs. Consumable – repeat business. Perfect business for Breeders, Handlers, Trainers, Kennels, Pet Sitters, Groomers, Vet Clinics, Rescue Groups, K9 Sports Clubs, Traveling Vendors, etc. Sell direct to people you know, your peers and at dog events. Income limited only by the time you want to devote to the business. Serious inquiries... call (866) 493-7634 or email to HydroDog2@aol.com.

Fencing PURR…FECT FENCE – Is the first complete, free-standing cat fencing system, turning any backyard into a safe, secure paradise for cats, with proven health & behavioral benefits. www.PurrfectFence.com or (888) 280-4066.

Healing Essences CANADIAN FOREST TREE ESSENCES – 15 vibrational essences of exceptional quality for animal care, including Animal Whisper, Animal

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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 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 MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER – Dr. Mark Newkirk, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Metabolic Nutritional Analysis, Ozone Treatments, Laser Pain Therapy, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination), Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Alternative Cancer Therapies. Phone consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031 NORTH-EAST NEWMARKET VETERINARY SERVICES – Dr. Autumn Louise Drouin, Veterinarian, Naturopath. Cozy outpatient office. Detailed history, physical examination, laboratory tests. Individualized treatment protocols suit patient’s condition and client’s needs. Homeopathy, Herbs, Clinical Nutrition, Bach Remedies, Physical Therapies. (905) 830-1030 Newmarket, ON www.holistic-vet.ca

PetAlive.com – Proven herbal and homeopathic remedies for cats and dogs, including kennel cough, UTI, cancer, parasites, joints and more. Treat your pet the natural way! Wholesale/ retail/affiliate inquiries welcome. Visit http://www.petalive.com?cmp=hom07

Pet Portraits ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS – Specializing in oil painting for 28 years. Nationwide clientele. Portraits of any pet of your choice, people with pets also. Credit card, personal check or money order. 44 Church St., Tilton, NH 03276. (603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.com YOUR SPECIAL FRIEND – Can be part of your life forever when portrayed in oil on stretchedcanvas by North Carolina artist Dick Larsen. (919) 554-1902, www.dicklarsenart.com GET FABULOUS PHOTOS OF YOUR DOG TODAY! – “Whose your Doggy?” photography creates beautiful natural light or studio portraits. Visit our website: www.whoseyourdoggy.com or call (416) 927-7830 in Toronto Pet PAWTRAITS – send me your photos, do not mail your dog! For memories that last forever. Go now to: www.hayanimals.com Or call (416) 829-7052

Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & THERAPIES – Offers instruction and training for small animal massage providers at locations in IL, WI, VA, and NC as well as classes in maintenance and sports massage for animals in the Chicago-Milwaukee area. (847) 782-1963 (voice), (847) 782-5725 (fax) Info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com STRENGTHEN YOUR HUMAN/ANIMAL BOND BY LEARNING ANIMAL MASSAGE. Small, hands-on classes taught by internationally recognized LMT, author and founder of Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc. Free brochure: (800) 251-0007, wshaw1@bright.net, www.integratedtouchtherapy.com PETMASSAGETM helps dogs create balanced “inner environments”. Learn how. Workshops/ Home Study Courses New Children’s DVD’s, teach doggie massage, canine body language, safety. (800) 779-1001 www.petmassage.com ASSISI INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL INSTITUTE – Offers basic and advanced animal communication workshops and a Professional Animal Communicator Certification Program. You and a friend can attend our Skills Development Workshop for free by sponsoring it in your local area. Education@AssisiAnimals.org; AssisiAnimals.org; (510) 532-5800.

Homeopathy

Travel

HOMEOPATHY, REIKI – Safe, gentle, noninvasive treatments for your animal companions. Effective treatment for acute, chronic and first-aid conditions. Call Marilyn at (416) 697-7122, or e-mail at homeomom@hotmail.com.

DogFriendly.com – Dog travel guides with United States and Canada dog-friendly lodging, campgrounds, attractions, parks, beaches and restaurants. Books and free online guides at <http://www.dogfriendly.com/guides> www.dogfriendly.com/guides.

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.

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bulletin board

Out and about

new Web launch!

Come visit us at: • Vancouver Pet Expo March 31-April 11 Tradex Centre Abbotsford, BC www.canwestshows.com

Be sure to enter our online contest

• 10th Annual All About Pets Show April 6-8 International Centre Mississauga, ON www.pets-show.com • Equine Affaire April 12-15 Ohio Expo Center Columbus, OH www.equineaffaire.com/ohio • Horse World Expo May 11-13 Empire Expo Center Syracuse, NY www.horseworldexpo.com • EAT! Vancouver May 25-27 BC Stadium Vancouver, BC www.eat-vancouver.com

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OBESITY • Diabetes • Foods and supplements to keep him lean • Strokes in dogs • Moving with your animal • Elbow callus – treatment and prevention • Living with a three-legged animal • Prostate cancer in dogs • Caring for the geriatric cat • Cat carriers • Mystery Mutt contest animal wellness

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The tail end

Put me in, coach!

Ceilidh crouched behind the chain link fencing that kept her in our backyard. Beyond, in the adjoining park, a softball game was in progress. Ceilidh was definitely keeping her eye on the ball. In fact, her attention was riveted to it. As I watched her, the words of the old Credence Clearwater Revival song echoed through my mind. “Put me in, coach. I’m ready to play today. Look at me, I could be center field.” Anyone who knows Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers also knows they’re manic compulsive when it comes to retrieving. They’re unable to resist the lure of anything tossed or thrown through the air. This summer afternoon, Ceilidh was particularly focused. A tournament had been in progress all day and by 3 p.m. she’d had all she could take of foul balls landing just short of our yard and home runs flying through the air almost over

by Gail MacMillan

her head. She was definitely ready to play center field.

“That dog stole our ball!” a player in a red uniform yelled.

Ignoring Ceilidh’s growing frustration, my husband Ron was involved in yard work. Constantly going between the front and back yards, he forgot to close the gate between the two.

“Yeah, and it was a home run!” another in blue shouted.

Moments later, angry shouts from the direction of the ballpark made him glance up and discover that Ceilidh was missing. Hurrying into the front yard, he looked up and down the road.

“A dog catching it doesn’t count!”

Almost immediately, he saw her heading home at top speed, pursued by half a dozen angry men in baseball uniforms. Clamped in her jaws was the softball. As she sped past Ron, he lunged to grab her. With an adept dodge, she whisked past him, through the open gate, across the back yard and through her doggie door into the house.

“No, it wasn’t! The dog caught it! You’re out!”

“Where did you ever see that rule written?” “Guys, guys, take it easy.” Ron, a dyed-in-the-wool baseball fan, was all sympathy. “Ceilidh’s a retriever and she’s been watching the games through the fence for weeks. I guess she was getting frustrated. I’m really sorry.” “Okay, okay,” said blue uniform. “Just give us the ball and we’ll let the umpire hash this out.” Glad to have the confrontation finished, at least on our property, Ron headed into the house to retrieve the purloined softball. A couple of minutes later, he returned to the disgruntled group. In his hand was a ragged piece of leather and string. “I guess she was more frustrated than I thought,” he muttered as he passed it to a player with one hand and reached in his back pocket for his wallet with the other. From that day, Ron was a lot more careful about keeping the gate closed… especially during softball games. And we never did find out how the umpire ruled on Ceilidh’s catch.

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If you have an amusing story you'd like to submit, send it to: Tail End, at submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com animal wellness

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ontario RE

ION

Catherine and her canine companions enjoy a walk in nature.

Urban Wolf

combines a passion for dogs with a recipe for quality nutrition Give a passionate dog breeder an opportunity to create the ideal dog food, and only good things can happen. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like a loving mother providing only the best for her children.

Catherine Woodliffe, creator of the Urban Wolf dog food line (www.urbanwolf.ca), is a good example. She began her canine career in the 1980s, breeding champion terriers. In 1986, dissatisfied with the poor nutrition that commercial foods offered her dogs, Catherine created a holistic formula rich in natural nutrients and specially designed to give growing dogs optimal health and a strong start in life. She dubbed it the Essex Cottage Farms Health Food Mix and became animal wellness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ontario region

president of Essex Cottage Farms Ltd. near Belleville, Ontario. Catherine’s success led her on another dietary enterprise in 1993, when she developed a recipe specifically for orphaned and injured animals at a private wildlife sanctuary. It had such a positive effect that Catherine decided to reformulate it for dogs, taking into consideration how canines metabolize different whole foods in order to get the most nutrition out of them. Urban Wolf, a line of grain-free biologically appropriate raw/real food B.A.R.F. dietary base mixes, was born. “Urban Wolf exists solely for the purpose of making my own dogs as healthy as they can be,” says Catherine. “I have dedicated my life to creating and developing top quality, highly digestible and healthy dog foods through extensive research and hands-on experience.”

a naturally protective manner so dogs will not suffer from the typical detoxification symptoms often associated with switching to a raw diet.

City living has removed dogs from the natural food sources they lived on for centuries, but Urban Wolf includes the use of raw (or cooked) meat, giving dogs what they ate before the rise in commercially processed foods, and improving on nature by incorporating the most nutritious whole foods possible.

Urban Wolf was designed to be convenient as well as healthy. “I feed nine 100-pluspound dogs every day and it takes me less than 20 minutes to prepare their food and feed them start to finish,” says Catherine, who is currently working to establish a breeding program for greater Swiss mountain dogs in Canada. “I’m a single working mom and I took this into consideration when I perfected the diet.” Urban Wolf is consequently made to be quick and easy to serve – you just mix it with raw or cooked meat.

Modern dogs are also under much more physical and emotional stress than their wild predecessors. Urban Wolf ingredients handle these challenges in

Urban Wolf is available across Canada and the U.S., as well as online. This year, the company plans to increase its expansion into the American

It’s clear that Catherine’s greater Swiss mountain dogs benefit from Urban Wolf.

marketplace while also forging into Great Britain and other parts of Europe. Urban Wolf employs eight full and parttime employees and is a supporter of Fixed Fur Life (www.FixedFurLife.com), a charity for cats, and the Quinte Humane Society. “I am responsible for feeding thousands of dogs every day, including my own, and it’s a responsibility I take very seriously,” says Catherine. “If there was any healthier way of feeding them, you can be assured I would be doing it.”

animal wellness – ontario region

BL 23

BL 28

BL 52

SP 6

How Traditional Chinese Medicine by Rona Sherebrin, DVM, CVA can help cats with In the first clinic I worked at, old Dr. C. always said something strange on wet days. “It’s raining, we’re going to get a blocked cat in.” It sounded unlikely – until I saw it happening. I found out why it happened when I began studying Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). In traditional Chinese medicine, health

FLUTD

depends on the strength and flow of Qi (life energy). Qi moves through the body via a system of channels or meridians on the surface of the body and deep within, connecting all organs and tissues in a vast network. Disease can arise when there is an imbalance or disruption in the flow of Qi through these channels. Certain areas along the surface meridians provide access to the

Qi. These are the acupuncture points, and a trained acupuncturist or tui-na massage therapist can affect the flow and quality of Qi by accessing them. According to TCVM, “damp-heat in the bladder” is the disorder pattern in cats with FLUTD, a lower urinary tract disease that can be life-threatening in males when the urethra, the long thin

We have moved to a larger location in East York to serve your better, visit us at 45 Cranfield Road, Unit 5 416-690-1077 or email tania@caninewellness.com

animal wellness – ontario region

BL 23

2 points on the back, midway between the 2nd and 3rd lumbar vertebrae (spinal bones), about 8mm (one finger width) to each side of the spine; follow directly upward from the tip of the last rib to help find the point on heavier cats.

BL 52

2 points on the back midway between the 2nd and 3rd lumbar vertebrae, about 15mm (two finger widths) to each side of the spine.

BL 28

2 points on the rump, about 8mm to each side of the spine, close to the centre of the ilium hip bone.

SP 6

2 points, one on each leg, on the inside surface, about 15mm above the ankle bone.

tube that carries urine from the bladder through the penis, becomes obstructed. The damp-heat blocks the normal energy (Qi) flow, leading to pain and difficulty passing urine. The heat damages the bladder lining, causing bloody urine. Over time, if the damp-heat persists, it can cause coalescence into a solid: mucus, crystals, or stones. Sources of the damp-heat can be internal stress such as inappropriate diet, a fearful nature, and obesity, as well as external stress including sudden changes in diet, damp rainy weather or abrupt weather changes, overcrowding, human stress, or new animals or people in the household.

Tom’s trouble

A middle-aged housecat, Tom was sweet and loving, bonded only to his guardian and very sensitive and fearful of strangers.

He’d had major abdominal surgery due to progressively worsening intestinal disease. About six months later, he developed signs of lower urinary tract disease: straining, bloody urine and accidents around the house. These symptoms kept recurring, and antibiotics didn’t help. Tom was given a very thorough evaluation, but no abnormalities were found except blood and inflammatory cells in his urine. The diagnosis was idiopathic cystitis. The scarring from Tom’s surgery was impairing the flow of Qi around his bladder. As well, his fearful nature, stress from surgery and hospital visits, and close bond to a guardian who was extremely worried about him, were all contributing to the damp-heat. Multiple courses of antibiotics, meanwhile, were too cooling and resulted in an increase in damp.

Dry food increases heat

Felines derive most of their water through food, which means a cat on a dry processed diet is always borderline dehydrated. This makes the toxins in his urine extremely concentrated and irritating to the bladder lining. A dry diet is also considered “hot” or “warming” in TCVM, so is a contributing factor to this disease. A nutritionally balanced home-cooked or raw diet, or a good quality canned food, will promote better hydration and help dilute urinary toxins.

Back in the flow

I began Tom on a course of acupuncture treatments. Points were chosen to dispel heat, drain damp and strengthen his kidney/bladder system. At the second treatment he was showing signs of FLUTD, so a herbal formula was started. The symptoms quickly resolved. After the fourth treatment his guardian had to go away for a weekend – previously a prime trigger factor for Tom. Amazingly, he did not have a full recurrence, but did show signs of discomfort by urinating once outside the litter box. Before the acupuncture, he would have large amounts of blood in the urine and painful, short urinations

animal wellness – ontario region

Helpful herbs

Plantago major Che Qian Zi (plantain) and Lonicera japonica Jin Yin Hua (honeysuckle) are two safe and useful herbs that can be used to help clear heat and drain damp from the bladder area. They should be used under the supervision of a veterinarian trained in TCVM or western medicinal herbs. for several days. This time it was just the once, and with no visible blood. Tom’s guardian began home-cooking a balanced diet according to TCVM principles. He was taken off the herbal formula after several more weeks, and had a few more acupuncture sessions. He became more relaxed, and has continued well on his special diet and occasional acupuncture “tune-ups”. Dr. Rona Sherebrin received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1991, and began studying TCVM in 2001. She is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, and is working towards her Masters Degree of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. She is a member of the Association of Veterinary Acupuncturists of Canada, the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association, the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association. www.myTCMvet.com

animal wellness – ontario region

Photo: Hugh Coghill

Midland shelter by Christine Arnett

on the road to recovery after a devastating fire

Thanks to the incredible efforts of firefighters and OSPCA staff and volunteers, over 30 cats and dogs were saved. But, sadly, approximately 30 cats and two rabbits were lost. Four cats and six dogs were treated for smoke inhalation and/or burns at the Heritage Animal Hospital in Midland. The other survivors were taken to the Orillia Branch immediately after the fire, and were later transferred to the York Region Branch where there is a staff veterinarian. Unfortunately, four of the animals who initially survived the fire later succumbed to

their injuries. Among them was a kitten rescued eight hours into the blaze after a firefighter heard a faint crying coming from within the burnt walls.

Photo: Joe Springall

Every day, staff and volunteers at Ontario SPCA shelters deal with tragedy first hand – from loving animals coldly abandoned at their doors to unthinkable cases of abuse. While these situations are never easy, workers are trained to deal with them. But on August 3 of last year, the staff at the Midland & District Branch experienced a tragedy they were not prepared for when their shelter was destroyed in a fire caused by a lightning strike.

Rosie survived the fire and now has a loving new home.

“It was a very emotional watching staff and volunteers gazing helplessly and in disbelief at the burning building,” says branch manager Maureen Dool. “This was our worst nightmare, knowing there was little we could do to save the remaining animals inside.”

Starting over But the news isn’t all bad. “While we are still mourning the tragic loss of the animals, we are also looking to the future and the rebuilding of the branch in their honor,” says Maureen. “The support from the community and across the province has been amazing. In addition to generous individual donations, a number of third-party events have raised funds for rebuilding – to date, we’re received $200,000 in donations. We’ll continue to rely on community support in the upcoming months since the insurance settlement unfortunately won’t cover the cost of the rebuild. We’ll also need the community’s support for ongoing animal care and investigations services in the Midland area.” Until construction can begin, the Ontario SPCA hopes to set up a specialized trailer for temporary animal sheltering on the property, and in the coming months hold a community animal wellness – ontario region

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meeting to present the plans for the new shelter. “A tremendous amount of commitment and dedication went into the formation of the Midland & District Branch,” says Maureen. “While we lost the physical structure, we did not lose the spirit that went into its making. The heart and soul of every donor, volunteer and staff member is reflected in the love and care we provide the animals. No fire can destroy that.”

Up from the ashes You can help the new Midland branch become a reality by making a donation using one of the following three options. Visit www.ontariospca.ca/ 3-online.shtml, click “Online Donation”, and select “Tribute – In Honour.” Once on the next page, specify the Midland Fire as the designated fund for your donation. Call 1-888-668-7722, ext. 321, to donate by phone. Make a donation at any branch of the Bank of Montreal, specifying trust account number 3956-1031-534. All gifts are eligible for a tax receipt. For donations made through the Bank of Montreal, please forward your bank receipt and personal information to the Ontario SPCA Provincial Office, 16586 Woodbine Ave., R.R. 3, Newmarket, ON L3Y 4W1, and a tax receipt will be issued.

Christine Arnett is the Director of Marketing & Communications for the Ontario SPCA.

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Animals benefit from TV, thanks to The PET Network If you read a headline that claimed, “Television viewing is beneficial for animals,” you might be a bit skeptical. But it’s true when it comes to The PET Network, though perhaps not in the way you imagine. Broadcasting from Toronto since 2004, The PET Network is the only digital television service in Canada that provides continuous daily programming dedicated to companion animals. That doesn’t mean the network’s subscribers are four-legged, feathered, or scaled,

animal wellness – ontario region

but it does mean they’re ultimately better off because of it. The PET Network currently reaches an estimated 250,000 household viewers. Some have animals instead of children. Some have animals because of children. And some have animals because their children have grown up and moved on (an empty nest makes a wonderful home for any critter). These households pay a monthly subscriber fee for this specialty service because they passionately care about animals,

by Scott McLauchlan

and because it’s an entertaining and informative way for people to further connect with their companions. Dogs, cats and other critters may not actually watch The PET Network, but they benefit from the insight their guardians gain from the programming. The network features an impressive list of experts who offer advice and care-counsel to viewers around the clock. On Good Dog, renowned Canadian dog authority, Dr. Stanley Coren, demonstrates training techniques to help address behavioral problems. Jenny Whitall discusses the importance of responsible ownership, nutrition, veterinary care and alternative therapies on Pet Friends. The Gentle Doctor, aka Dr. Debbye Turner, shares proven techniques that can be used to help ensure the health and happiness of companion animals. Other programs like Animal Miracles, Animal S.O.S. and Vets in Hong Kong explore the fascinating relationships between humans and animals.

The network also offers watch-andlearn opportunities, such as its own flagship program PET CENTRAL. Shot on location, PET CENTRAL is a “pet-pourri” of information ranging from first aid tips such as artificial respiration and CPR for small animals, to creature-featured movie reviews and photography, and unique demonstrations such as how to create the ideal home habitat for a spider or gecko. The network also features animalbased movies, documentaries, and weekly dramatic series that include Lassie, Riding High and Animal Hospital. Unusual programs like Animal House illustrate the extraordinary talents of animals from around the world while Hollywood Pets reveal the glitz and glamour of pampered animals and their sometimes eccentric guardians. In addition, The PET Network promotes positive animal treatment, compassion and care beyond the cameras, both through their website (www.thepetnetwork.tv) and partnerships with organizations such as Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The days of TV programming especially for animals to watch may not be that far off. Till then, The PET Network provides their guardians with educational and entertaining programs that directly translate to better cared-for, loved and appreciated companions. And any time the bond of love and devotion between human and animal is strengthened, both benefit beyond measure. Scott McLauchlan

is a freelance

writer who lives with his wife, two children, two cats and a chinchilla.

His

media background includes

The Sports Network, The Discovery Channel, Sun TV, and others. marketing for

animal wellness – ontario region

Canine

aggression by Suzanne Irwin

what causes it and what’s the solution?

Mali is a very large German shepherd who was badly bitten when he was six months old. At eight months, he fiercely attacked another dog and a muzzle order was slapped on him. Two years later, he was incapable of seeing another dog without barking, lunging, and trying to attack. After several months of fruitless training, it seemed euthanization was inevitable. Poor socialization in the earliest weeks and months of life are often to blame for aggression like Mali’s. We expect dogs to automatically understand how to live with us and other canines, but we must take responsibility for their education. Puppies are best born and raised in a family setting where they can learn how to live with people and other dogs, and how to react with confidence to many of life’s situations.

The fear factor Ideally, puppies should be socialized

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to everything they might encounter in adult life. Dogs that have not been properly socialized are usually fearful. When faced with a situation to which they have not been introduced as puppies, they will react in one of two ways: fight or flight. Both reactions originate from fear. A dog’s two greatest survival tools are his teeth and feet. If he chooses to fight, he will often warn his opponent with signals like growling, curling his lip, stiffening, and turning away in

order to avoid the intrusive canine. An under-socialized dog will not recognize these warning signals and will, for instance, fail to notice that the dog he is blithely attempting to mount is the alpha male or female of the pack. Dogs that have been routinely socialized with other canines have highly developed social skills and can resolve issues like this before they become serious. If a puppy is attacked by another dog, the fear response will remain and probably increase over time unless he is immediately exposed to other well-socialized dogs on a regular basis. The puppy will try to warn off an approaching dog by barking. If the other dog comes too close, the natural response of a cornered animal, particularly a leashed one, is to bite. Thus a fear biter is born.

Strong leadership is key

Mali’s fear response could only be

modified by strong leadership from his guardian. Dogs like this must be given a job or set of behaviors from which to choose, by performing a repertoire practiced many times without negative stimuli or stimuli that cause a fear response. This way, the animal learns the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. He also learns to look to his handler for directives instead of making the decision to attack of his own accord. Most people are ill equipped to handle a potentially disruptive, fear-driven dog, so rehabilitation should only be done with professional help or training for both handler and dog. It is the guardian’s responsibility to gain the support and skills she needs to handle her dog correctly. Through careful reconditioning of the natural fight or flight response, and judicious educated handling

decisions, an aggressive dog may be slowly and carefully reintroduced to canine social situations. If you’re wondering how long this rehabilitation process takes, each case must be addressed individually. For Mali, it was one year before he could play freely with dogs he had grown to trust. In my experience, aggressive animals can be retrained and live relatively normal lives, though you must always watch for signs of regression since the underlying fear never entirely disappears. The bottom line is that dogs are much happier with a strong pack leader who shows clear boundaries of acceptable versus unacceptable behavior. This is best accomplished through obedience training as a way of life. It may take time and effort, but you’ll have a happier, more secure companion to share your life and love with.

Thanks to behavior modification, Mali is overcoming his aggressive tendencies.

Suzanne Irwin

is a lifelong animal

Leaps and Toronto. She has

lover and the owner of

Bounds Training

worked with both dogs and horses during her career, and holds an

Equine Studies Humber College. She was awarded Readers’ Choice Diamond award Best Pet Trainer in 2005 and 2006.

honors certificate in from the for

animal wellness – ontario region

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ONTARIO REGION marketplace

New location! Secord Animal Hospital

3271 Yonge St, Toronto M4N 2L8 Tel: 416-486-1700 Fax: 416-486-1795 Dr.Sherebrin@myTCMvet.com • www.myTCMvet.com

Rexdale Animal Hospital Homeopathic Treatments Massage Therapy Dentistry Surgery Wellness Exams Natural Dog Foods Nutritional Supplements Grooming & Obedience Classes

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Dr. Chris Elson (416) 740-PETS (7387)

Dr. Margaret Hacking Ballantrae Animal Hospital

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Stouffville, on

East York Animal Clinic

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Leo K. Rosenberg, D.C., F.I.C.C.

4202 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario. M8X 1Y6 M8X 1Y6 Toronto, Ontario.

Pet Heaven Funeral Services

Providing pet parents a dignigied & respectful service to look after all the arrangements. •Cremations and burials. With care pick up from your home or animal hospital •Alternative to in hospital euthanasia We can help you arrange in the comfort of his or her own home a gentle vet assisted at-home euthanasia.

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Dr. Jennifer Heick Chiropractor, Animal Chiropractor xiv

animal wellness – ontario region

www.petsinmotion.ca • Tel:416 231-2487, Cell: 416 616-2009

ANIMAL CHIROPRACTOR - AVCA Board Certified dr.leo@petsinmotion.ca yo

rk animal

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P et M emorial

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Helping pet guardians through the entire process of pet loss • Pre-planning • Cremations • Urns & Memorial Gifts • Urn Placement • Supports

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Canine Touch & Tell Sandy Benoit Sylvia King

Canine Masseuses PHONE: (613) 762-8869 www.caninetouchandtell.com

all dogs need canine massage

ONTARIO REGION marketplace

Manson B

ehaviour

Counselling

Canine & Feline clicker training Puppy classes • Obedience classes Private lessons • Home consultation available

hmanson@sympatico.ca • (519) 736-4221

“The Hip Hound Hang-Out!” Dog Daycare • Dog Walking Professional Pet Grooming • Dog Boutique

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Pet Haven has the only in-home facility which offers “natural boarding”, fresh foods, purified water and forest friendly walks. Looking for the ultimate lifestyle wellness program to rejuvenate your pet’s health contact shelley@torontopethaven.com

416-635-PETS (7387) Suzanne R. Irwin Member of CAPPDT • Board your dog with award winning trainer • Complimentary grooming for stays over 7 days • Have us tailor a personalized training program while your dog stays with us • Grooming all breeds by Angela Menard • Private sessions for all levels and training needs Located in High Park, West Toronto

t: 416 232 2525 e: suzanne@leapsandboundstraining.com www.leapsandboundstraining.com

All Natural Dog Treats

Our Freshly baked treats have become

“THE BARK OF THE TOWN”

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www.thebarkery.ca 6 G e o rg e St re et W. , St ra t fo rd O N N 5 A 1 A 5

FACTORY CLEARANCE OF PET CARE WORKER UNIFORMS

FROM $9.99 TO $24.99 - Regular price up to $54.99 Check out our clearanc e pric on pet clothi es ng, pet costumes , pet jewelry, et c.

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or 8 8 8 - 8 4 4 - 1 5 3 2 animal wellness – ontario region

ONTARIO REGION marketplace

Vegetarian Dog Treats

The Healthy Choice for Your Dog! Biscotti, Cookies, Training Treats and Special Occasion Packages all made fresh with your dog in mind. Our products are only made once you place your order and then delivered directly to your door. We use all-natural, human-grade ingredients. Our products are high in quality and promote a healthy lifestyle. Vegan options are available on request.

www.arthursappetizers.com • 416-908-2334 IT’S SO SIMPLE – IT’S REVOLUTIONARY! MEATLOAF – the alternative to feeding a dry processed kibble or a raw diet. Using only human grade ingredients, our food is prepared fresh daily in small batches. Available exclusively at our shop in Orangeville.

DOGS WE LOVE – Real Food for Dogs We could easily become your second best friend. 328 Broadway, Orangeville (519) 940-3598, www.dogswelove.com

Tear Stain Remover Holisitically removes ugly tear stains on your dog or cat . Contains no bleach, peroxide or steroids. Externally applied and non-irritating.

877-823-2620

WWW.TLC4DOGS.COM

FETCHFeaturing IT UP! the photography of Sandra Bolan

fetchitup@rogers.com •

w w w.fe tchitup.ca • 905-717-3721

Central Canada’s Largest Natural Health Magazine For Humans • Herbs, Homeopathy, Chinese medicine • Nutrition and Natural Therapies for a wide range of health problems from asthma to cancer to heart disease

View our archives at www.vitalitymagazine.com Advertising inquiries 416-964-0528

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: Anne Gibson Canadian Regional Manager Tel: 866-464-5214 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com

www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com xvi

animal wellness – ontario region