Integrative VETERINARY CARE
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS
HOW TO HARNESS THE POWER OF THESE HEALTH-GIVING FUNGI Page 16
FEEDING LARGE BREED PUPPIES
Providing the right diet and balance of nutrients is critical in all young dogs, and especially large breed puppies.
www.IVCJournal.com
SPRING ISSUE 2013
CHINESE HERBS–
SCIENCE OR TRADITION? Are Western and TCVM approaches saying the same thing, just with different terminology?
RAW BONES
Educating yourself and your clients on this trend will help ensure they feed bones correctly and safely.
ACUPUNCTURE FOR EQUINE ALLERGIES An effective alternative to Western medicine.
DERMATOLOGY ISSUES
How to use a variety of modalities to treat the underlying imbalance instead of just the symptoms.
WHAT’ S NEW
• Standing up for homeopathy • Jerky treat conundrum • Declaration of animal consciousness • Stoned dogs
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IVC Spring 2013
Integrative VETERINARY CARE
SPRING 2013
editORiAl depARtMeNt Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Associate Editor: Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social Media Manager: Natasha Roulston Cover Photography: Santhosh Kumar
COluMNists & CONtRibutiNg WRiteRs Ihor Basko, DVM, CVA Mary S. Battistella, DVM Chris Bessent, DVM Deborah Brown Taryn Dentinger, DVM, CVA Jodie Gruenstern, DVM, CVA Heidi Lobprose, DVM Kim Perkins, PhD Jon D. Plant, DVM, DACVD Lucy Postins Michelle J. Rivera, MT, VDT Jochen Schleese, CMS, CEE, CSE Hilary Self, BSc, MNIMH Susan Wynn, DVM
AdVeRtisiNg sAles National Sales Manager: Ann Beacom (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Equine National Sales Manager: Lisa Wesson (866) 764-1212 ext. 413 Lisawesson@redstonemediagroup.com ClAssiFied AdVeRtisiNg: Michelle Stewart classified@IVCJournal.com us MAil: IVC Journal, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122
AdMiNistRAtiON & sAles Publisher: Redstone Media Group President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Michelle Stewart Circulation: John M. Allan Administration: Libby Sinden
CdN MAil: IVC Journal, 202-160 Charlotte St. Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. The opinions expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of IVC Journal, 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.
subMissiONs: Please send all editorial material, photos and correspondence to Dana Cox at Dana@redstonemediagroup.com or IVC Journal, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202 Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received.
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IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALS... ONE READER AT A TIME.
IVC Spring 2013
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contents FEATURES
16
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS
Understanding the power of these health-giving fungi in your veterinary practice.
16
20
TCVM PATTERN DIFFERENTIATION IN DERMATOLOGY
By approaching skin problems with acupuncture, herbs and foods, you treat the imbalance causing the issue, and not just the symptoms.
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Nutrition Nook FEEDING LARGE BREED PUPPIES
Young dogs grow fast, and the right diet and balance of nutrients are critical for proper development and the prevention of health problems in adulthood.
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34
RAW BONES–WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
More and more clients are feeding raw bones to their dogs. Educating yourself on this trend will help ensure they do it right.
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ACUPUNCTURE FOR EQUINE ALLERGIES
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Allergy symptoms in horses are often frustrating to treat with Western medicine. A TCVM approach, specifically acupuncture, can be an effective alternative.
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HERBS FOR INSULIN RESISTANCE HORSES
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IVC Spring 2013
Adding these herbs to the management program of insulin resistant equines can help them lead longer, healthier lives.
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CHINESE HERBS– SCIENCE OR TRADITION?
Both Western and TCVM approaches have successes, yet they seem worlds apart. But both are really saying the same thing – just with different terminology.
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Tech Talk FENG SHUI IN THE CLINIC SETTING–PART 2
How this ancient art of placement can help you and your colleagues maintain well being and harmony in the workplace.
60
Integrative Practice WHAT’ S YOUR VISION?
How to create a happier and more successful practice though visualization, goal setting and regular evaluations.
advisory board COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS
5 Advisory board 6 Editorial 10 What’ s new 32 Industry innovations 37 Spotlight 59 Veterinary resource guide 65 Marketplace 66 Events
dr. Richard palmquist, DVM, graduated from Colorado State University in 1983. He is chief of integrative health services at Centinela Animal Hospital in Inglewood, California, president and research chair of the AHVMA, and an international speaker in integrative veterinary medicine. Dr. Palmquist is a consultant for the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) and co-director of the AHVMA Foundation. He has published two books, one for conventional veterinarians and a second for clients discussing how integrative thinking works.
Michelle J. Rivera, MT, VDT, is an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and The Healing Oasis Wellness Center, a post-graduate educational institution offering state-approved programs. She is co-owner of The Healing Oasis Veterinary Hospital, offering massage, rehabilitation, chiropractic and Chinese and Western Herbology. Michelle completed the Chinese Herbal Medicine program from the China Beijing International Acupuncture Training Center, and is certified in Chinese Medicine by the Wisconsin Institute of Chinese Herbology.
dr. Joyce harman, DVM, MRCVS, graduated in 1984 from Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. She is certified in veterinary acupuncture and chiropractic and has completed advanced training in homeopathy and herbal medicine. Her practice in Virginia uses holistic medicine to treat horses. Her publications include The Horse’s Pain-Free Back and Saddle-Fit Book – the most complete source of information about English saddles.
dr. steve Marsden, DVM, ND, lectures for the IVAS, the AHVMA and the AVMA, and is co-founder of the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies. He is a director of the National College of Natural Medicine, and authored the Manual of Natural Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Marsden is extensively trai ned in alternative medicine, including Chinese herbology, acupuncture and naturopathic medicine. He has a veterinary and naturopathic practice in Edmonton, Alberta. In 2010, Dr. Marsden was named Teacher of the Year by the AHVMA.
dr. Jean dodds, DVM, received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she moved to Southern California to establish Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals. Dr. Dodds has been a member of many national and international committees on hematology, animal models of human disease, veterinary medicine, and laboratory animal science. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994.
dr. Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH, graduated from the University of Georgia Veterinary College in 1980. She is a founder of the Academy Of Veterinary Homeopathy, was on the faculty of the National Center for Homeopathy Summer School and has been the holistic modality adjunct faculty liaison for the Maryland Veterinary Technician Program. Dr. Chambreau teaches classes in homeopathy for animals, and lectures on many topics. She is the author of the Healthy Animal’s Journal and the co-author of the Homeopathic Repertory: A Tutorial.
bill bookout is a founding member of the NASC, and served as president and chairman of the board from 2002–2012. Mr. Bookout was appointed vice president of global sales for Kemin Industries after Kemin acquired his supplement company, Genesis Ltd. Prior to his work in the animal field, Mr. Bookout spent 15 years in the human medical device, drug and animal health industries. Mr. Bookout received his Bachelor’s degree in physical sciences from the University of Wyoming, and an MBA from Pepperdine University. He has been selected by Health Canada to serve on the Expert Advisory Committee for Veterinary Natural Health Products.
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editorial
Spring,
glorious spring Most people and animals love the warmth and flowers, yet for others it’s the start of itching and sneezing. Susie, a fiveyear-old cocker spaniel, came to me one February because each spring she lost her hair, developed red skin and weepy ears, and scratched much of the day, even on walks. Her family worried because each year her symptoms began sooner and lasted longer, especially after her third rabies vaccine. Drugs from the dermatologist did not help in the last year, and some caused severe side effects. She also had behavior issues, vomiting and diarrhea. They asked me for a homeopathic remedy to treat her allergies. I wish returning most animals to health was as easy as selecting a single remedy. But often it requires a multi-pronged approach. This issue of IVC presents multiple ways to heal animals with skin, lung, and stool problems that are seasonally related. You could simply use these and other holistic modalities to treat the allergy symptoms. Or you can begin to see each animal as a unique individual whose quantum energy pattern (Qi, vital force) is producing these symptoms to become rebalanced from the trigger (pollen, etc). For Susie, I used different modalities to individualize her treatment and all her symptoms resolved. While she may still have a few bouts with skin issues over the next two to three springs, they will be easily treated and her general health will continue to improve as long as she stays on a great diet and has few vaccines.
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One joy of an integrative practice is having many different modalities to both soothe symptoms without side effects and deeply heal to prevent recurrences. When clients are willing to be patient and observant, the joy in finding deep healing is very satisfying. Dr. Ihor Basko’s article on medicinal mushrooms illustrates this really well. Of course, this issue of IVC features many other informative articles. As with itchy Susie, diet is important to many animals, so the Nutrition Nook is a critical read – this issue Dr. Susan Wynn focuses on puppies. Dr. Jodie Gruenstern offers some helpful tips for your clients on feeding bones and Michelle Rivera’s second article on Feng Shui shares some ancient advice on how to maximize your space. Finally, I want to thank everyone who attended the NAVC for their warm comments about IVC Journal and for sharing your ideas for future issues. As always, I’m very interested in hearing about conditions that are challenging you, what modalities you would like to read about, practice management concerns and more. Please email feedback to me at drtina@ivcjournal.com or dana@redstonemediagroup.com.
Happy spring,
Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Associate Editor, IVC
IVC Spring 2013
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contributors
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2
3
4
5
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1. Ihor Basko, DVM, CVA
5. Jodie Gruenstern, DVM, CVA
Dr. Ihor Basko graduated from Michigan State University in 1971 with a DVM degree with special interest in cardiology, orthopedic surgery and internal medicine. He began his studies in Chinese medicine, acupuncture, herbology and homeopathy in 1974. He joined the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 1977 and began teaching acupuncture, herbology, and nutrition to IVAS in 1979. He was certified in 1985 and is a member of the AHVMA, AVMA, VBMA, and HVMA licensed in California and Hawaii. Dr. Basko practices TCM/Acupuncture and Nutritional Therapy on Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii.
Dr. Jodie Gruenstern is the owner of the Animal Doctor Holistic Veterinary Complex in Muskego, Wisconsin. She is certified in veterinary acupuncture and food therapy. She writes for Nature’s Pathways, is a speaker for Standard Process and promotes the integration of holistic care on her radio show, television and her DVD and Animal Doctor product line, which is available at Animal DoctorHolistic.com.
2. Mary S. Battistella, DVM Dr. Mary Battistella is a 1983 graduate of Auburn University and has been practicing integrative medicine since 1992. She incorporates acupuncture, chiropractics, Chinese herbal medicine, homotoxicology and nutrition into her practice, Kowaliga Whole Health Pet care in Eclectic, Alabama. She completed IVAS certification in acupuncture in 1994, and herbal certification in 2000. She is part of the Integrative Medicine program at the Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine and is on staff at Chi Institute. Dr. Battistella is on the continuing education committee for the AAVA.
3. Christine Bessent, DVM Dr. Christine Bessent has been a practicing veterinarian for nearly 25 years in southeast Wisconsin. She practices holistic veterinary medicine, utilizing Chinese herbs, acupuncture, food therapy and chiropractic on all animals. She teaches the benefits and wisdom of Chinese veterinary medicine through seminars, classes and internships for veterinary students and veterinarians. Dr. Bessent is certified in veterinary chiropractic and acupuncture and is a member of many organizations, including the AHVMA, the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association and the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She is the founder of Herbsmith, Inc.
4. Taryn Dentinger, DVM, CVA Dr. Taryn Dentinger graduated in 2002 from the University of Minnesota and began her career practicing mixed animal medicine in northeast Wisconsin. Returning to her hometown of Duluth, Dr. Dentinger continued her career as an equine ambulatory practitioner. In 2008, she was certified in veterinary acupuncture by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She now practices exclusively acupuncture, treating horses and companion animals.
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IVC Spring 2013
6. Michelle J. Rivera, MT, VDT Michelle J. Rivera is an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and The Healing Oasis Wellness Center, a post-graduate educational institution offering state-approved programs as set forth by the Wisconsin Educational Approval Board. She is also the co-owner of The Healing Oasis Veterinary Hospital, Inc. a holistic veterinary practice offering massage and rehabilitation therapy, chiropractic and Chinese and Western herbology. Michelle has completed the Chinese Herbal Medicine program from the China Beijing International Acupuncture Training Center, and has been certified in Chinese Medicine by the Wisconsin Institute of Chinese Herbology.
7. Hilary Self BSc (Hons), MNIMH Hilary Self is a Medical Herbalist, a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, and a member of the NASC Scientific Advisory Committee. She is also co-founder of Hilton Herbs Ltd., which has been manufacturing and formulating herbal supplements for animals for 22 years. In 2004, Hilary received the Nigel Wynn award from the National Institute for innovative projects in herbal medicine, in recognition of her clinical trials into the application of herbs for horses with Cushing’s disease. Hilary is the author of two books: A Modern Horse Herbal and A Veteran Horse Herbal.
8. Susan G. Wynn, DVM Dr. Susan G. Wynn is a graduate of the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She is co-author of four books on integrative medicine, including the Manual of Natural Veterinary Medicine and Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine. She is certified in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Western herbal medicine. Dr. Wynn has served as the executive director of the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association, president of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition and the AHVMA, and on the boards of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition and the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association.
get published!
IVC Spring 2013
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what’s new stANdiNg up FOR hOMeOpAthY On January 5, 2013, the AVMA’s House of Delegates, representing all of the states and many allied organizations, voted on a resolution submitted by the Connecticut State Veterinary Medical Association: “Homeopathy has been identified as an ineffective practice and its use is discouraged.” At the initial Executive Board (EB) meeting, Dr. Doug Aspros, AVMA president, declared emphatically that this resolution did nothing to further the AVMA. He went on to say that such resolutions should be discouraged in the future. The EB then voted to recommend “disapproval” of the resolution. The AVH and AHVMA will continue to work with the AVMA to defend clients’ rights to obtain homeopathic therapy for their animals from trained veterinarians. Two representatives of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy and two from the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association attended the AVMA meeting. They reported that a large number of delegates either practiced a CAVM modality, had an associate in their clinic who used one, or referred to a veterinarian who practiced one. The majority of the attendees were eager to learn more about veterinary homeopathy. The “Allied Associations” also held a meeting to discuss all the resolutions. This group includes such varied organizations as the American Animal Hospital Association, American Association of Equine Practitioners, and the Student AVMA. The opinion of the Allied Associations was that this resolution should not be approved (that veterinarians should not be discouraged from using homeopathy in their practices).
and that it is the AVMA’s job to bring the profession together and not discourage therapies. They discussed that many therapies used by veterinarians in day-to-day veterinary practice have thin evidence bases. Stem cell therapy was cited as one example. They noted that clients have choices in the therapies they choose, and that it is most important that they can go to competent veterinarians. The House Advisory Council voted to recommend sending the resolution to the Council on Veterinary Services (COVS). The resolution was not passed by the House of Delegates. It was referred to the Executive Board of the AVMA with the recommendation that it then be sent on to the COVS. They are preparing to do their five-year general review of all Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medical guidelines. Supporters of homeopathy note that this is a time for other supporters to wait patiently, develop good relationships, and let the veterinary homeopaths interact with the AVMA. If letters are needed in the future, veterinarians and clients alike will hear the request from many sources. Go to theavh.org/avma/index.html for the most current information.
The various speakers at the four major meetings emphasized that it is important that the AVMA represent “all segments” of the profession
tOOth tRuth A new study from Ipsos Reid is shedding light on the misconceptions about periodontal disease pain experienced by dogs and cats. The study, commissioned by Royal Canin, found 54% of Canadian pet owners lack full comprehension of pet pain associated with periodontal disease symptoms, and most believe the symptoms of periodontal disease are more painful in humans than in dogs and cats.
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IVC Spring 2013
Ipsos Reid polled pet owners from across Canada about a range of questions related to periodontal disease and how symptoms affect pets. Two-thirds (65%) of respondents believe that root exposure is painful in cats and dogs, but when it comes to humans, nearly nine in ten (89%) believe the same symptom of periodontal disease is painful. Likewise, swollen or bleeding gums – other symptoms of periodontal disease – are identified by 63% of Canadians as painful for cats or dogs, but substantially more (82%) consider these same symptoms painful for humans. Even after learning of the pain pets experience, only 46% felt they completely understood how painful it is and that it is just as painful a disease for pets as it is for humans.
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lARge ANiMAl ResCue ClAsses deClARAtiON OF ANiMAl CONsCiOusNess Last year, the Cambridge Declaration on Animal Consciousness was signed at the Francis Crick Memorial Conference on Consciousness in Human and Non-Human Animals in England. This landmark document was signed by prominent international cognitive neuroscientists, neuropharmacologists, neurophysiologists, neuroanatomists and computational neuroscientists. The declaration proclaims in part that “the weight of evidence indicates that humans are not unique in possessing the neurological substrates that generate consciousness. Nonhuman animals, including all mammals and birds, and many other creatures, including octopuses, also possess these neurological substrates.” • Mammalian and avian emotional networks and cognitive microcircuitries are very similar.
Media pictures of cats and dogs in cage-filled tents are common after every disaster. But what about the equines, cows and zoo animals – many weighing 500 to 2,000 pounds? The faculty and staff at the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine – International Animal Welfare Training Institute (UC Davis – IAWTI) have teamed up with Texas A&M to teach a new continuing education course that prepares first responders and veterinarians to safely handle and rescue these bulky animals. Dr. John Madigan, director of UC Davis International Animal Wellness Training Institute, and Dr. Charlie Anderson invented a state-of-theart sling used to safely lift stranded large animals in need of rescue (it can also be used in the clinic and on the farm for downer animals). The next step was to create curricula to teach technical skills and animal handling techniques. Two trainings in California include First Responder Guidelines for Equine Emergencies, Level 1 and Loose Livestock and Injured Wildlife and Emergency Animal Euthanasia. vetmed.ucdavis.edu/IAWTI
• Self recognition is seen in some birds. • Pharmacological interventions with compounds that affect conscious behaviour appear to have similar effects in human and non-human animals. • Emotional feelings arise from homologous subcortical brain networks in both human and non-human animals. fcmconference.org/img/CambridgeDeclarationOnConsciousness.pdf
iMpORtANt NuMbeRs ANd liNKs The AVMA has developed a list of important phone numbers and web links including organizations involved with animal drugs, disease outbreaks, food safety, insurance, and many others. avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/ImportantResources-forVeterinarians.aspx Meanwhile, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) has a great list of links to holistic organizations so you can get answers to your clients’ questions about different modalities, as well as consultants for your cases. ahvma.org/index.php?option=com_weblinks&view=category&id=69 &Itemid=79 You can get to both these pages from links on the home page of ivcjournal.com.
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peNNsYlVANiA puppY Mill lAW The dog law enforcement unit of Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Department has beefed up enforcement of the 2009 anti-puppy-mill law. It has taken action against 37 operations it says were engaging in illegal breeding of dogs (including six doing online sales), said spokeswoman Samantha Krepps. philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2012/12/27/pennsylvanias-dog-lawenforcement-office-cracking-down-on-illegal-dog-breeding-kennels/
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the JeRKY tReAt CONuNdRuM A veterinary toxicology and pathology team at the Veterinary Information Network is working to discover the cause of illness from recalled jerky treats. It’s asking veterinarians to submit cases, especially ones with laboratory data, as part of a survey to weed out other possible causes of illness.
VIN members can submit cases on vin.com. Non-VIN members can call 800-700-4636 to obtain a temporary login and password to access the survey. news.vin.com/vinnews.aspx?articleId=25737; fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyInformation/ ucm334915.htm?source=govdelivery
Since 2007, the FDA has received more than 2,500 reports of dogs that became ill after eating jerky treats, mostly made in China. On January 9, 2013, however, the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine pointed out that other foods or drugs could be the culprit, not the jerky, and that there may be a reporting bias – i.e. people hear about a recall, then their animals become ill. Jerky treat illnesses are related to Franconi syndrome. Clinical signs are increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea. The signs should be evident within four days of jerky consumption to be considered viable cases for the purposes of VIN’s survey. Lab values showing electrolyte abnormalities in the blood and/or urinalysis showing glucosuria and proteinuria are valuable.
seeN A stONed dOg lAtelY? If you’ve ever had a dog brought into your clinic that’s been intoxicated by marijuana, you’re not alone. VIN has reported that a California veterinarian saw one marijuana intoxicated dog daily, and during the harvest season there was one per hour! Most of these dogs were eating the plants, not the owners’ stashes. An emergency veterinarian in Washington reported an increase in stoned dogs – about one per week – since three medicinal dispensaries were legally established near her hospital. However, she does not think the new laws in CA and WA to decriminalize casual use will increase the number of intoxicated dogs. Symptoms of marijuana intoxication in dogs commonly include ataxia, disorientation, lethargy, slow reflexes, urinary dribbling, hypersensitivity to touch or sound, low heart rates and even coma. Death is rare. Conventional treatments include inducing vomiting, activated charcoal and IV fluids. Holistic approaches such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, homeopathy or Western herbs would be determined by the individual dog’s reactions – tongue and pulse, behaviors, prior problems.
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CANiNe heAlth FuNded bY AKC More than $1.7 million in 17 research grants to 13 research institutions and universities has been approved by the AKC Canine Health Foundation. The health concerns being addressed in dogs include: • Specific causes of periodontal disease • Treatment of urinary incontinence
importance The
of
phytonutrients by lucy postins
• Six separate oncology grants • Prevention of tick-borne diseases You can learn more and/or contribute to these and other areas of research at akcchf.org/2013grants
CAleNdAR Vets Looking for a unique calendar for your clinic or home office? The 2013 Dr. ShowMore Calendar features 17 holistic veterinarians from all over the world in tasteful, artistic au naturale photographs with their beloved animals. The first Dr. ShowMore Calendar was a great success; it went to over 20 medical and veterinary conferences, and appeared on CBS and ABC news, with 5,000 copies viewed all over the globe. To order your copy of this year’s calendar, visit drshowmore.org. The Dr. DoMore Project is a documentary series to educate the animal caring public and veterinarians. All profits go to the Center for Integrative Veterinary Care and student scholarships.
There’s more than a visual difference between the brown food pellets many pets eat, and fresh, colorful foods. Phytonutrients, the pigments that give fresh foods their vibrant hues of red, green, yellow and orange, contain powerful antioxidant properties. Many fruits and vegetables are suitable for dogs to eat, and contain compounds that help provide protection against many ailments and diseases to which domestic canines are prone. Despite the fact that most phytonutrients are officially considered “non-essential” (most aren’t included in AAFCO nutrient profiles or other references many vets are familiar with), phytochemicals do seem essential for deep-seated good health, well being, immunity – and probably longevity. Some of the health benefits of phytonutrients in colorful foods include enhanced immune system activity, protection against cancer, support of eye and heart health, improved communication between cells and repair of DNA damage. Antioxidants also help slow down the signs of aging by cleaning up the by-products of oxidation within the body’s cells. The powerful health properties of phytonutrients are thought to play an especially important role in cancer prevention. While the majority of the research is being done on humans, it’s likely most of the benefits being demonstrated also apply to animals, including domesticated pets. Researchers have identified hundreds of different phytonutrients. Some of the best known are carotenoids (such as beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene and Zeaxanthin) and flavonoids (such as isoflavones, anthocyanins and flavones). LUCY POSTINS
IS THE CO-FOUNDER AND
CEO
OF
THE HONEST KITCHEN
PET FOOD COMPANY, WHICH MAKES DEHYDRATED NATURAL DOG AND CAT FOOD, TREATS AND SUPPLEMENTS.
LUCY
HAS LONG BEEN INTERESTED IN
THE BENEFITS OF HOME COOKED AND RAW FOOD FOR PETS AND STARTED RESEARCHING HEALTHY NUTRITION FOR DOGS AND CATS AFTER ADOPTING A
RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK PUPPY IN 2000. SHE BEGAN FORMULATING PET FOOD THE HONEST KITCHEN IN 2002. THEHONESTKITCHEN.COM PRODUCTS A YEAR LATER AND LAUNCHED
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bY ihOr basKO, DVm, CVa
There are more species of fungi, bacteria, and protozoa in a single scoop of soil than there are species of plants and vertebrate animals in all of North America. Of these, fungi are the grand recyclers of our planet, the mycomagicians disassembling large organic molecules into simpler forms, which in turn nourish other members of the ecological community. Fungi are the interface organisms between life and death.1 For centuries, various cultures around the world have used mushrooms for medicinal purposes. Modern research backs up what ancient healers and scientists learned through practical experience – studies indicate that medicinal mushrooms (MMs) contain polysaccharides, lysozymes, and triterpenes, which have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-tumor properties. Some mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate the immune system, and assist healing of the liver, kidneys, and heart tissues.2 Much of the current research on medicinal mushrooms has been done mostly in laboratory animals and humans, so this article draws from my own personal experience using MMs in small and large animals for more than 35 years, as well as international studies.
MMs for cancer The most common use of medicinal mushrooms is in the treatment and prevention of cancers.3 Results compiled from research suggest that whole mushroom extracts contain compounds that modulate tumorigenesis and carcinogenesis at different stages. Because they have many different mechanisms
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and modes of action on cancer cells via the immune system, medicinal mushrooms could potentially provide additive benefits and synergistic effects in the prevention and treatment of cancer.4 Besides being Qi tonics in general, medicinal mushrooms can support the treatment of TCM symptoms categorized as Excess Dampness, Damp Phlegm or Damp Heat, which include edema, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, uterine infections, prostate problems, diseases of the kidneys, and inflammation. In addition to having phytotherapeutic actions, these fungal wonders of nature contain many different vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, and sterols. They are easily administered with little or no side effects. Their natural habitat may give you clues to their medicinal properties. Polypore mushrooms growing in damp, cool, moist places have diuretic and warming properties.
The powerful three: Reishi, Maitake and Shiitake Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi, Ling Zhi) Reishi, “The Herb of Immortality,” is my favorite mushroom, both for personal use and to dispense in my practice in various forms and combinations with other mushrooms, herbs, and antioxidants. TCM regards the fruiting body as a nourishing Qi tonic. The “actives” are found in the polysaccharide, lysosomal enzyme, and triterpene constituents of the fungus.5
Properties of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi, ling Zhi) Pharmacology Polysaccharides: Ganodermans A, B, C, Beta-glucans • Anti-tumor effects: enhances Tumor Necrosis Factor and NK cells6
Lysozymes • Antibacterial against Staph, Strep, Bacillus pneumoniae, etc.
Triterpenes12 • Adaptogenic • Anti-hypertensive • Anti-allergic (inhibits histamine release)
REI SH I
• Immuno-stimulating and modulating properties (increases macrophages & T-cell activity)7,8,9
• Antioxidant, hepato-protectant
• Antiviral (induces interferon activity, anti-HIV, interleukins-1-2)10,11
Other properties • Enhances bone marrow proliferation • Regenerates bronchial epithelium
• Increases WBCs • Protects against ionizing radiation
• Reduces toxic effects of caffeine • Analgesic and muscle relaxant
In addition, Reishi contain more Germanium than any other plant or mushroom. Germanium increases oxygen utilization of the blood,13 making it useful in the treatment of altitude sickness and heart disease.
Grifola frondosa (Maitake) Maitake means “dancing mushroom” in Japanese, or “chicken of the woods” in the West. The name probably comes from the fact that this mushroom grows in overlapping groups that resemble butterflies in a wild dance.
Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Shiitake is an edible mushroom highly appreciated for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In Japan, Shiitake have always been considered an “elixir of life.” Shiitake contain 30 enzymes, ten amino acids, and are high in minerals (Ca, Zn, P, Rb, Se, Cu, Ni, K, Mg, Cd, Fe).
Properties of Grifola frondosa (maitake) Properties of Lentinula edodes (shiitake) Pharmacology
Pharmacology Polysaccharides: Beta 1, 6 glucans D-fraction • Immune-stimulating agent (T-cells, macrophages) • Tumor growth inhibition (NK cells) • Phospholipids
Pharmacology Polysaccharides: Beta 16, 13 glucans • Enhances the numbers and functions of macrophages, NK cells and T-cells • Modulates both innate and adaptive immunity
Other properties
LEM (protein bound with Vit. B compounds and sugars) • Liver protectant
• Anti-tumor (NK cells)
• Lowers blood pressure
• Anti-viral
• Hepato-protective
Lentinan (a non-protein that must be used parenterally)
• Enhances immune system function14
• Anti-tumor15
• Lowers blood glucose/ anti-diabetic
• Lowers cholesterol • Removes lipids in the liver
• Stimulates the immune system (T-lymphocytes)
• Anti-cancer13 • Decreases cholesterol
Eritadenine
• Improves circulation
• Regulates urinary incontinence
• Accelerates the degeneration of tumor cells (indirectly via NK cells)
• Anti-inflammatory
• Immune enhancing: increases T-lymphocytes and inhibits viruses (HIV/AIDS)
MAITAKE SH
IIT AKE
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Mushrooms for Mielle
Mixing mushrooms
Common veterinary uses
Mielle was diagnosed with a bleeding hemiangiosarcoma of the spleen. She was weak from blood loss and had not eaten in a few days. The attending veterinarian thought it hopeless and suggested it may be time to think about euthanasia. Mielle was a 14-year-old standard poodle with other issues: osteoarthritis in her knees, spondylosis, and severe KI Yin Deficiency. She was not expected to live long.
By using Reishi, Maitake and Shiitake together, their individual positive effects become enhanced. Other mushrooms, Chinese herbs, and antioxidants maybe also added to this synergistic base. For example, Trametes versicolor can be added to treat lymphoma or bone cancer, and Cordyceps sinensis can be added to help support the treatment of kidney problems, liver cancers, and hepatitis.
Reishi, Maitake and Shiitake mushrooms can be used alone or with other therapies and supplements for a variety of diseases and conditions, and to minimize side effects. The most common include:
Her owners wanted to move back home to Kauai and take Mielle with them, but she could hardly stand. I saw her in August 2012 as they were seeking a second opinion, and prescribed Chinese herbs to quell the bleeding and a tonic for the blood loss. We put her on a formula of the three power mushrooms and antioxidants. After two weeks of herbal and mushroom treatments, B12 and folic acid injections, Mielle made it onto the plane in the cabin as a “therapy” dog. (The owner had a letter from her “shrink”). She got home and recovered her strength, her appetite, and now takes short walks in the neighborhood. As of midJanuary, the tumor was stable, her color and pulses good, and she is maintaining a good quality of life in a loving environment. The tumor has not gone away, but the “life” and the “light” came back. 18
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Dosages and indications Personally, I use both whole herb mushroom extract powders and a few formulations (combinations). The powder forms can be simply added to the food, made into liquid using vitamin B complex syrup or mixed with melted butter. In general, my dose for dogs and cats is 10mg to 25mg per pound of body weight.
• Geriatric diseases with chronic debilitation complex: muscle atrophy, cardiac problems, and weakness (Qi Deficiencies) • Cancer – use alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy (synergistic effects) • Cortisone therapy (adaptogenic and hepato-protective) – for side effects • Cushing’s disease (adaptogenic) – for supportive care • Severe parasitism in weak puppies or kittens • Compromised immune systems (FIV, FIP, FeLV) in cats or kittens with viral upper respiratory tract infections • Hepatitis, liver failure, mushroom poisoning
The following dosages are whole mushroom extracts for the most common uses in pets:
• As an adjunct to antibiotic or anti-fungal pharmaceuticals (synergistic effect)
Liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver dysfunction and liver failure) • Ganoderma 50mg/lb bid • Cordyceps 50mg/lb bid • Antioxidants (NAC, ALA, VIT E, C, Milk Thistle, Shizandra, Astragalus, and phosphatydilcholine)
• Acute and chronic cystitis (add Poria cocos, Polyporus umbellatus) • Urinary Incontinence (add Cordyceps sinensis)
Conclusion
Mushrooms are powerful healers that are Kidney disease easy to administer. They are helpful in many (geriatric, nephrosis, and nephritis) • Ganoderma 20mg/lb/bid of the diseases and conditions that challenge • Shiitake 50mg/lb/bid us in our veterinary practices so I encourage • Maitake 25mg/lb/bid you to consider them as a complementary • Cordyceps 20mg/bid therapy for your patients. • Antioxidants (COQ10, Taurine, Sun-Chlorella) CORDYCEPS Cancer SINENSIS • Ganoderma 25mg/lb/bid • Maitake 25mg/lb/bid • Shiitake 25mg/lb/bid • Trametes versicolor 25mg/lb/bid (added if Lymphoma) Immune system deficiency (FeLV, FIV, FIP, chronic infections, and demodectic mange) • Ganoderma 10 mg (cats) to 25mg/ lb/bid] • Shiitake 10mg to 25mg /lb/bid • Maitake 5mg (cats) to 25 mg/ lb/bid • Astragalus
The “spirit” of a mushroom
Administering mushrooms, or any plant medicine, in tablet, powder or liquid form does not communicate the “spirit” of the plant to the veterinarian. As you study mushrooms through reading and learning, know there is a next step – to learn the “personality” of the plant by experiencing it in its natural form and environment. Growing medicinal plants or mushrooms in your garden, or looking for them in the wild, will give you a greater understanding and appreciation of their nature. When hunting for mushrooms, remember that they thrive in moist, damp forests with lots of dead organic matter. The underground mycelium neutralizes organic wastes into simple, easily absorbed nutrients. In fact, these great recyclers help tree roots absorb nutrients more efficiently. If you are out collecting specimens, cut only the fruiting bodies above the root bundle, then cover the mycelium with dirt. Try to minimize impact by watching where you step. Caution: It’s best not to collect your own mushrooms unless you have extensive knowledge of different species and how to tell them apart. RESOURCES More information: For an in-depth presentation of “Understanding the Power of Medicinal Mushrooms in Your Veterinary Practice”, email Dr. Basko at DrBFree@drbasko.com.
1 Stamets Paul. Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Save the World. Ten Speed Press. Berkeley CA, 2005. 2 Brochers Andrea T, Keen Carl L, Gershwin Eric M. Mushrooms, Tumors, and Immunity: An Update. Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California—Davis School of Medicine, 1999. 3 Wasser SP. “Medicinal mushrooms as a source of antitumor and immunomodulating polysaccharides,” Appl Microbiol. Biotechnol, 2002. 60: 258-274. 4 Gao Y, Gao H, and Chan E, et al. “Antitumor activity and underlying mechanisms of ganopoly, the refined polysaccharides extracted from Ganoderma lucidum, in mice,” Immunol Invest., 2005. 34(2):171-98. 5 Silva Daniel. “Cellular and Physiological Effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi),” MiniReviews in Medicinal Chemistry, October 2004. 4(8): 873-879. 6 Weng CJ, Yen GC. “The in vitro and in vivo experimental evidences disclose the chemopreventive effects of Ganoderma lucidum on cancer invasion and metastasis,”Clin Exp Metastasis, May 2010. 27(5):361-9. Epub 2010. 7 Lull, Cristina, et al. “Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulating Properties of Fungal Metabolites,” Mediators Inflamm, June 2005. (2): 63–80. 8 Bao, Yi Xi, et al. “Immunomodulatory Effects of Lingzhi and San-Miao-San Supplementation on Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology, 2006. 28(2): 197-200. 9 Lin YL, et al. “An immunomodulatory protein, Ling Zhi-8, induced activation and maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells by the NF-kappaB and MAPK pathways,” J Leukoc Biol., October 2009. 86(4):877-89. Epub 2009 Jun 4. 10 Lindequist, Ulrike, et al. “The Pharmacological Potential of Mushrooms,” EvidenceBased Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2005. 2(3): 285-299. 11 Gao Yihuai, et al. “Antimicrobial Activity of the Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma,” Food Reviews International Journal of Cancer, 2005. 21(2): 211-229. 12 Min Zhu, et al. “Triterpene antioxidants from Ganoderma lucidum,” Phytotherapy Research, September 1999. 13(6): 529-531. 13 Kodama Noriko. “Effect of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) D-Fraction on the Activation of NK Cells in Cancer Patients,” Journal of Medicinal Food, December 2003. 6(4): 371-377. 14 Nanba Hiroaki, et al. “Effects of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) glucan in HIV-infected patients,” Mycoscience, August 2000. 41(4): 293-295. 15 Lima PLA, et al. “Shiitake modulates genotoxic and mutagenic effects induced by alkylating agents in vivo,” Mutat Res., 2001. 496:23-32.
Products: Whole herb extract powders from: MycoMedicinals, Fungi Perfecti, Mushroom Harvest, Sun-Ten, MayWay. Formulations (combinations) from: RESOURCES, Health Concerns, Seven Forests, Sun-Ten and Mushroom Matrix.
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TCVM
By Mary S. Battistella, DVM
Pattern Differentiation in Dermatology
One of the most frustrating problems pet owners
have to deal with in their animals is itching. As veterinarians, we know that a good diagnostic plan would include a thorough history of the problem (acute, chronic, seasonal, continual), the patient’s age, and any other problems. Skin scrapings and flea combs are used to rule out parasites, including demodectic and sarcoptic mange mites, fleas and lice. Cultures and biopsies may also reveal information leading to a cause of the problem. Endocrine problems, autoimmune disease and allergic skin disease may be among the differentials.
Evaluate the patient
Evaluate the skin
- Age of patient
- Dry or Damp
- Chronicity of problem
- Hot or Cold
- Diet
- Thick or Thin
- Presence of stress
- Odor
- Exposure to infectious
- Discoloration
Most clients with dermatology patients seek integrative care when they are concerned about the long term effects of steroids, antibiotics and/or anti-fungals on their pets’ health, or they may seek integrative care if the patient has incompatibilities with medications.
- Medications
One benefit of approaching these pets from a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medical (TCVM) point of view is that we do not need a specific “Western” diagnosis, though it may help with determining the pattern of disease. The pattern of disease is developed according to the presentation of the patient and his history. Treatment is determined by balancing the pattern of disease with acupuncture, herbs, laser, food therapy or a combination of these.
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parasites - Heredity - Other medical problems
- Hair coat quality - Location of lesions, constant or moving
Diagnosing skin patterns can sometimes be challenging because they usually involve both excesses and deficiencies, and the skin may not always reflect the interior imbalances. For instance, the skin may have small dry flakes while at the same time there is an interior damp condition (see sidebar) with lipemia and gallbladder sludge. It might be helpful to look at some of the symptoms that are presented and interpret them according to TCVM. Some of the symptoms may include pruritis, pustules, scales, crusts, ulcers, exudates, blisters, vesicles, papules, hair loss, cysts, nodules, masses, pain or tenderness, hives and skin discoloration.
SympTom DiFFerenTiaTion prUriTiS
noDUleS
exogenous - invasion of wind, wind cold, wind damp, cold damp, damp heat, damp, wind heat, wind heat dryness, toxic heat, insect bites or parasites, poison ivy (toxin). acute, excess, may wander or come and go.
Qi Stagnation – soft, moveable, non-painful
endogenous - food sensitivities, blood deficiency dryness, yin deficiency, toxic heat, toxic damp heat.
ScaleS
excess - strong itch Deficiency - tends to be milder
Blood Stagnation – hard, immoveable, often painful phlegm Stagnation – soft, moveable or immoveable with palpable borders
Exogenous Dryness (acute)
Blood Deficiency and Dryness (chronic) – thin and dry scales on pale rash Heat caused dryness – chronic with red rash
pain
Blood Stasis – chronic, thick, dark scales
excess - strong, worse with pressure
Damp or Damp Heat – acute or chronic; thick, moist or sticky scales (odor with heat)
Deficiency - mild, improves with pressure exogenous pain: cold of the Skin – cramping type pain that improves with warmth Heat – burning type pain
ScarS Hard, immoveable, often painful (Blood Stagnation)
BliSTerS or VeSicleS Damp heat
endogenous pain: Qi Stagnation – Diffuse, moderate, distending pain
cySTS oF THe Skin
Blood Stasis – strong, stabbing fixed pain
phlegm
phlegm – dull pain or sensation of heaviness
pUSTUleS
Deficiency of Blood – mild, dull pain improved with pressure (massage) Yin Deficiency – mild, dull, burning pain Yang Deficiency – dull pain, better with warmth
DiScoloraTion
Damp heat or toxic heat
crUSTS, eXUDaTeS, FollicUliTiS Damp heat or toxic damp heat
light discoloration – deficiency or cold invasion Dark discoloration – blood stasis light red – exogenous factors red macules or papules – heat (endogenous, exogenous or toxic) TReATMenTs
• Acupuncture is helpful for eliminating excessive heat and for moving qi and blood. Acupuncture points used often with skin problems are GB 20, GV14, BL17, LIV2, SP10, SP9, SP6, BL22, GB 34, LU9 and LI 11.
used to drain dampness and eliminate fire; it can nourish blood without causing stasis and supplements the yin. It should not be used long term by itself and should be used with caution when there’s a deficiency of the Spleen and Stomach.
• Herbs and food therapy have their forte in treating deficiencies within the body, as well as transformation processes, draining of damp, building of blood, qi, yin, yang and essence.
• Another formula that is helpful is Jia Wei Jiao Yao San. It’s used for Liver qi stagnation with interior heat and an underlying blood and Spleen deficiency. Symptoms usually include a dry hair coat and skin. Dang Gui Shao Yao San might be used to nourish the blood, strengthen the Spleen, and resolve dampness. It is mild in nature and can be used for a prolonged period for chronic blood deficiency.
• Herbal formulas useful for treating skin problems include Long Dan Xie Gan Tang for excessive fire in the Liver and Gall Bladder meridians (including damp, heat otitis). This formula is
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• Another favorite in the older patient with a deficiency heat causing skin and hair problems is Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan. It is used to nourish Kidney yin and clear excess heat from the lower jiao. These patients tend to have knee and back problems, pant excessively, especially at night, and have a rapid, thin and wiry pulse caused by a heat deficiency and a lack of fluids and yin to cool the body. • Single herbs can be used to enhance these formulas, making them more specific for certain locations in the body and for itching or inflammation. o For the ears: Huang Bai Phellodendron, Ge Gen Kudzu or Long Dan Cao Gentiana o For the eyes and nose: Hong Hua Carthami, Ju Hua Chysanthemi or Bai Zhi Angelica Dahuricae o F or the groin area or whole exterior of body: Ku Shen Sophora or Chan Tui Cicada pericarpium
case study Sea Witch was a six-year-old spayed and heat. Transformation of phlegm and female Scottish deerhound with hair loss damp with draining herbs and herbs that and itching around the eyes and nose, move through stagnation are helpful. feet and the backs of her legs. The skin had a strong “doggie” odor. Treatment: Long Dan Xie Gan Tang was used. This Mildly red skin – heat formula addresses heat and toxic heat in (excess or deficiency) the Liver/Gall Bladder Channels, draining heat from the Upper Jiao and eliminating Thickened skin – damp or phlegm damp and heat through the Lower Jiao Odor – damp heat by promoting urination. It also has herbs for Pulse rapid, wiry and thin supplementing the yin (cooling) and the –h eat, stagnation, and deficiency blood without causing stasis. Also, because this formula works in the Liv/GB channels, it Tongue and gums red – heat drains heat from the ears and eyes. Panting – heat or nervousness Pruritis – heat, stagnation, wind
After heat and damp are resolved, Si Wu Tang is good for Liver Blood deficiency The signs that predominated were heat and stagnation with additional herbs for and damp. directing to the skin. The formula used in this case was Huo Xue Qu Feng Tang with Diagnosis: additional herbs for Blood deficiency wind Deficiency Heat with Damp and Wind (itching) and herbs used as envoys to the face and nose (angelica dahuricae bai Treatment principle: zhi), ears, face (cortex phellodendri huang Eliminate Damp, Heat and Wind bai) for clearing damp, wind and heat; and Nourish the Blood to the eyes (ligustri lucidi nu zhen zi) for yin Move the Blood deficiency heat, and hair loss. Other herbs Note: Eliminate predominant damp were ecliptae prostratae han lian cao prior to nourishing blood, because herbs to nourish blood, yin, and deficiency hair that nourish blood tend to aggravate loss and sesame indici hei zhi ma also for dampness leading to more stagnation nourishing blood and deficiency hair loss.
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WHOLE FOOD DIETS EASE ALLERGIES Whole foods are quickly gaining popularity among dog owners, and for good reason. The benefits of raw food and herbal supplementation go beyond being simply “a healthy choice”. Whole, unprocessed foods such as raw diets and natural herbal and Omega supplementation carry great advantages, especially when it comes to allergy related skin irritation and coat health.
• Herbs that have some specific action on itching can be added to other prescriptions. These include Cang Er Zi Fructus Xanthii, She Chuan Zi Cnidium, Fang Feng Ledoborellia, or Bai Xian Pi Dictamnus. All would be of value in an herbal pharmacy when addressing dermatologic issues. • Foods to strengthen the effect of herbals and needling include beef, beets, oats, raw sweet ginger, turmeric and hawthorn berries for nourishing and invigorating Blood. For a phlegm and stagnation condition, shrimp may be used to invigorate Blood and resolve phlegm, as may mustard leaf. Warm, sweet oats will invigorate Qi, while neutral, salty and bitter alfalfa is a detoxicant. Sweet, salty and cool barley tonifies yin and blood and is anti-inflammatory. Cooling meats are turkey, duck, rabbit and cod. More neutral meats are pork, beef, salmon, tuna and mackerel. Cooling grains include millet, barley, brown rice, wheat bran. Neutral grains are corn, sweet rice, soy beans, green beans, kidney beans and black beans. Vegetables that may help with dampness would include radishes, turnips, alfalfa, rye, barley, adzuki beans, celery, corn, garlic, green tea, marjoram, mushrooms and mustard. Owners can have fun working with foods and a crockpot to enhance the results of acupuncture and herbal treatments. By approaching the dermatology case with acupuncture, herbs and foods, you are treating the imbalance in the body causing the skin problem, and not just treating the symptoms. The root and the branch of the problem are being addressed. Constitution, heredity and diet often determine the nature of imbalances that result in dermatological problems. After symptoms are improved, keeping the body in balance can prevent the recurrence, or the severity of recurrence, of symptoms. Clients appreciate the time and effort when they see improvements in the comfort and vitality of their pets.
Allergic reactions begin with metabolic activity occurring deep within a dog’s cells. The first exposure to an allergen stimulates the immune system into a heightened state of alertness. Each subsequent exposure sets off a series of defensive cellular reactions. Often these early reactions are subclinical, without symptoms presenting upon physical examination. This subclinical reaction increases histamine receptor sensitivity, eventually manifesting as skin irritation and poor coat health. Processing methods used in the manufacturing of commercial dry and wet foods drastically alter the chemical makeup of otherwise beneficial ingredients; in some cases, negating their intended benefits. Fatty acids can suffer from oxidation to such an extent that they may even contribute to inflammation in the body. This, along with an age-related decrease in endogenous antioxidants, cause previously silent allergic reactions to erupt into a raging inflamed frenzy of itching. Raw foods, however, supply nutrients in their whole, unadulterated form. By providing higher levels of unscathed fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, the dog’s metabolism receives the nourishment it needs to keep reactions to allergens at bay. Herbal, concomitant with fatty acid supplementation, further builds the body’s defence against allergies. Many natural bioflavonoids have antihistamine-like properties, working synergistically with vitamins and minerals contained in the diet. A natural antihistamine preparation can include quercetin, biotin, folic acid, zinc and vitamins E and C. Once allergies appear to be under control, continuing with fatty acid supplementation is crucial in maintaining a healthy inflammatory response. Using a quality Omega fatty acid supplement that includes EPA and DHA provides unadulterated essential fatty acids, helping the body build and support a natural defence against allergies. Pharmaceuticals and conventional antihistamines provide temporary relief; they also bring with them the potential for significant side effects. Long-term use may result in connective tissue degradation and cardiovascular damage. The best approach to allergies is to start with diet. Providing a whole food diet that includes raw food, Omega and herbal supplementation, will nourish the dog’s body’s ability to work against allergies self-sufficiently.
Article provided by BiologicVeT biologicvet.net). IVC Spring 2013
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Advertorial
For
“scaredy cats” By Heidi Loprise, DVM, DAVDC
e’ve all seen it – a dog that is overly shy among strangers, is afraid of loud noises, or turns into a quivering mass when he comes through the door of your clinic. While caution and moderate fear of unknown things are means of self-protection, true anxiety and phobias can exist in some pets that are not actually in danger. Adequate exposure to new and potentially scary things during the pet’s socialization phase can help minimize some of these anxieties. However, a single intense or traumatic experience can result in one “trial learning” that may impact the animal for the rest of his life. The pet owner may think the person, noise or experience poses no threat, but to the animal, his perception is his reality. Common behaviors may include fleeing, fidgeting, freezing or fighting. Any other stressful stimulus during the time of anxiety, such as punishment or owner excitement, can exacerbate the problem. Veterinary behaviorists often work with pet owners and their dogs or cats to understand what is triggering the actual behavior and the extent of the response, as well as make recommendations for behavior modification. It is important for owners to address two critical issues: first, to consider if the pet could cause injury to himself or others, and second, to realize that the pet owner’s response should lead to calming and settling the dog or cat. If aggression becomes part of the pet’s response, the owner should seek professional help from a veterinarian or behavior specialist at once. With milder forms of anxiety, identifying the source or stressor is the first step. In order to teach calming and settling techniques,
the owner must provide a feeling of security so she will be able to control and communicate with the pet. Counter-conditioning and desensitization can then work with re-exposure to the stimulus along a gradient from low to high, using calming techniques and rewards. The intensity of the stimulus can slowly increase as the pet experiences the event without showing signs of fear. During this period, avoiding the stimulus at other times may be necessary when training is not active. Some pets have challenges reducing their stress response, and in severe cases, pharmaceuticals may be needed. In lieu of using anxiolytic or psychotropic drugs, other choices can sometimes reduce anxiety in pets. These include pheromone therapy and supplements. One such supplement, Anxitane® (L-Theanine®) Chewable Tablets, contains an amino acid proven to help reduce signs of fear and anxiety. This compound, found in green tea, can help pets stay calm and relaxed, which can help them in the learning process of behavior modification. Owners who have concerns about potential side effects of pharmaceutical drugs may prefer a supplement such as this. And with proven palatability, dogs and cats seem to like it as well. By combining this supplement, that can be given daily for as long as necessary, with behavioral modification, many pets can enjoy reduced stress in their lives.
Dr. Heidi Lobprise, Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, graduated as a DVM from Texas A&M University in 1983. She became a board certified veterinary dentist in 1993. In 2010, she joined Virbac Animal Health as Senior Technical Manager. She has authored and co-authored dental texts, chapters, and numerous articles, lectured internationally and is an adjunct associate professor at
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University of Tennessee and Washington State University.
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nutrition nook
Young dogs grow fast, and the right diet and balance of nutrients are critical for proper development and the prevention of health problems in adulthood. By susan wynn, DVM I see a fat teenager. The owner sees a cute roly poly puppy. I’m thinking OCD, dysplasia, osteoarthritis and chronic pain. The owner can’t see past the fun of having a pup. She’s making a big feeding mistake, but she’s only doing what the breeder told her to do – give the puppy a grainless adult diet, or else the breeder’s warranty is null and void. “Life stage nutrition” has been questioned when based only on a dog’s numerical age. We all see obese, arthritic tenyear-old dogs that really do need lower fat diets with higher levels of antioxidants and glucosamine; but there are plenty more that look and act younger, and for which these diets are inappropriate. And many breeders have recommended feeding adult foods to puppies to avoid growth problems. To further confuse the issue, we have a plethora of paleolithic diets that incorporate the AAFCO statement that they are complete and balanced for “all life stages”. So how important is feeding a puppy food?
A common misconception found in many internet articles is the claim that dietary protein should be controlled in large breed puppies to prevent skeletal abnormalities. This theory was disproved some years ago (Nap, 1991). Most commercial puppy foods contain more protein than is thought necessary, but studies have shown that protein contents of 23% to 31% (dry matter) do not have a deleterious effect on growth. The effects of high dietary protein contents in the range of those found in raw diets have not been investigated, to this author’s knowledge. An overweight body condition is an important risk factor for DOD, and feeding for maximum growth increases that risk. Commercial puppy and adult foods containing 10% to 25% fat (dry matter) are considered adequate for growth. Raw diets tend to range from 20% to 40% fat (dry matter) so it is particularly important to slow growth by maintaining a very lean body condition when these diets are fed. It has been shown that body fat is higher in puppies fed very high fat, low carbohydrate diets during growth.
raPId GrowtH = room for mIstaKes The average golden retriever grows from 14 oz to over 65 lbs within one year – a 70 fold increase in size. Human beings take 18 years to accomplish the same thing. At the same time their joints are growing and being exposed to under- or overnutrition, puppies are susceptible to higher weight stresses, compounding the challenges to normal development. The most important factors in preventing developmental orthopedic disease (DOD) are rate of growth (which is proportional to the caloric intake) and dietary calcium level.
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bodY condItIon score The body condition score (BCS) is an estimation of the body fat content. I recommend the 9-point scale, which is better validated (and in use anyway if one allows “half scores” in the 5-point system). All pet owners should learn how to perform a body condition score for their animals. Training your veterinary support staff to teach clients, having charts and pictures as well as making your own videos can lower the overall obesity level in your patients. Since this is such an important issue, you may also want a bulletin board for photos of your patients’ progress.
In puppies, the BCS should be monitored weekly, since the calorie requirement constantly increases to six to 12 months of age (depending on the breed). Maintain a body condition score of 4/9 in large breed, rapidly growing puppies. Remind clients to ignore the feeding quantities listed on commercial bags and to follow recommended amounts for a fresh food diet.
dIetarY consIderatIons Many pet owners are feeding paleolithic and raw diets – foods that are high in protein and low in starches. Since fat travels with meat, these diets are both high in calcium (which is formulated to balance the high phosphorus content in meats) and in calories. Puppies eating too much of a paleolithic diet can get fat and are likely to get a calcium overdose. Monitoring BCS and keeping it to 4/9 is critically important for giant breed puppies fed a fresh food diet. Decades ago, we considered some adult diets appropriate for puppies. However, a caloriecalcium mismatch is probably common. Adult maintenance foods are often less calorically dense than puppy foods. Additionally, these diets may have calcium and phosphorus levels that are higher in relation to energy density than a large breed puppy diet. If a rapidly growing puppy has to eat more food to obtain enough calories for growth, a calcium overdose is possible. On the other hand, paleolithic diets which frequently carry AAFCO statements that guarantee the diet to be complete and balanced for all life stages may or may not have controlled calcium levels in relation to the often high caloric density. Most nutritionists recommend that large, fast growing puppies eat diets containing at least 30% protein and 9% fat (dry matter basis). The calcium content should be around 1.5% (or 3 grams/1,000 kcal). Diets may have nutrient contents that vary from this guideline and still be appropriate, but you can’t know for sure without in-depth analysis. A very popular raw diet for dogs, carrying the AAFCO statement “formulated to meet IVC Spring 2013
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the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages” supplies too much calcium for large breed puppies. The calcium content on an as fed basis is 0.56% and the phosphorus content is 0.38%, which conform to AAFCO recommendations for growth. By converting the calcium and phosphorus concentrations to dry matter levels, and correcting for energy density, the calcium content of this diet is 7.5 grams/1,000 kcal. So if a large breed puppy is getting the expected caloric intake, he is eating too much calcium.
STAGES OF SKELETAL GROWTH
• Endochondral ossification: Growth, maturation and chondrocyte apoptosis followed by bony replacement of cartilage • Periosteal growth: Lamellar new bone formation • Remodeling: Removal of newly formed metaphyseal and endosteal bone to adapt bone shape Hazewinkel, 2012
In another example, a major OTC adult maintenance dry diet contains 22% protein, 1.1% calcium and 0.8% phosphorus as fed. After converting to dry matter content and correcting for energy, the protein content is 24% or 69 grams/1,000 kcal, and the calcium is 3.5 grams/1,000 kcal. The calcium content is correct, and the protein content is adequate but a little marginal for growth.
wHat aboUt treats and sUPPLements? Remember that treats add calories to the overall diet. Be sure the treats are small, and do not contain added calcium. Owners should be encouraged to use fruits and vegetables, both for the health benefits as well as the fact that they are low in calories. Small pieces of lean meat can also be used, but remember that most dogs are getting plenty of meat from their meals, while fresh vegetables and fruits are not a significant part of the diets of most dogs. Owners should be educated that treats are defined not by their ingredients, but by whether their dogs want them or not, and certainly not by whether they come in a box or bag from the store!
Spring 2828IVCIVC Spring 20132013
Studies have shown rather definitively that high calcium levels are a risk factor for development of DOD in large breed puppies. Be sure to advise owners to avoid calcium-containing supplements and treats. There are no studies so far that indicate whether it is effective or harmful to supplement with glucosamine to large breed puppies because of their risk of DOD. In general, I wait until I recognize a risk factor in a dog. Veterinary acupuncturists and physical therapists, veterinary chiropractors, or orthopedic surgeons tend to recognize early signs of joint disease and may institute glucosamine supplementation earlier than general practitioners might. Some holistic veterinarians recommend intermittent use of these supplements in order to monitor for signs of disease that may be masked while using them.
swItcHInG from PUPPY to adULt foods When the dog is near the adult sized frame and his energy and protein needs lessen, it’s time for a food that is lower in caloric density. This does not happen at an arbitrary age. It is also important to remember that the metabolic rate, and therefore the caloric requirement, drops after spaying and neutering. Be prepared to reduce the amount of food being given right after surgery, sometimes pretty dramatically, to maintain that BCS of 4/9 or 5/9. I personally don’t recommend early spay/neuter (at three to four months of age) but under these circumstances, a growth diet will be necessary until about six to nine months of age, when full skeletal height is usually reached. A puppy diet (or one formulated for “all life stages”) can be fed to adult dogs; however, it’s harder to maintain that ideal BCS, since puppy diets are typically more energy dense. By feeding a lower calorie adult diet, a bit more volume can be more satisfying to the adult dog, though continuing to monitor the BCS on a regular basis is critical. If an adult dog’s metabolic rate and caloric requirement are much lower than expected, it is important to remember that cutting the calories in a formulated diet also cuts nutrients. Some obeseprone adult dogs end up requiring 50% to 60% of the expected Continued on page 30.
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How to recommend food brands Choose a food designed for large breed puppies, whether a commercial food labeled as such or a homemade diet designed by a nutritionist for this purpose. The most reliable foods have been tested in AAFCO feeding trials, in contrast to those that have simply been designed on a computer. Coach clients to keep their puppies thin – and to show love not by giving more food, but by finding fun activities to keep them occupied!
IDEAL
Think about that 95 lb golden retriever with a BCS of 7/9, eating two 8 oz patties of raw food daily, and who is still overweight. The daily intake is already low, and would have to be reduced for weight loss. That dog is likely malnourished.
Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and all bony prominences evident from a distance. No discernible body fat. Obvious loss of muscle mass.
]
1
Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass. Ribs easily palpated and may be visible with no palpable fat. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.
]
Ribs easily palpable, with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted, viewed from above. Abdominal tuck evident. Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Waist observed behind ribs when viewed from above. Abdomen tucked up when viewed from side.
Ribs palpable with difficulty; heavy fat cover. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent or barely visible. Abdominal tuck may be present.
5 ]
7
Ribs not palpable under very heavy fat cover, or palpable only with significant pressure. Heavy fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent. No abdominal tuck. Obvious abdominal distention may be present. Massive fat deposits over thorax, spine and base of tail. Waist and abdominal tuck absent. Fat deposits on neck and limbs. Obvious abdominal distention.
]
The BODY CONDITION SYSTEM was developed at the Nestlé Purina Pet Care Center and has been validated as documented in the following publications: Mawby D, Bartges JW, Moyers T, et. al. Comparison of body fat estimates by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and deuterium oxide dilution in client owned dogs. Compendium 2001; 23 (9A): 70 Laflamme DP. Development and Validation of a Body Condition Score System for Dogs. Canine Practice July/August 1997; 22:10-15 Kealy, et. al. Effects of Diet Restriction on Life Span and Age-Related Changes in Dogs. JAVMA 2002; 220:1315-1320 Call 1-800-222-VETS (8387), weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT
Dietary recommendations for large breed puppies 1. Make sure the diet is complete and balanced for “all life stages” according to AAFCO guidelines, or if homemade, has been analyzed by a veterinary nutritionist. 2. Diets that have been tested in feeding trials are preferred to those that have been formulated according to AAFCO guidelines only. 3. Never free feed. 4. Keep the puppy lean (4/9 or 5/9). 5. Look for these guidelines: a. A dry matter content of about 30% protein, 9% fat, 1.5% calcium and 0.8% to 1% phosphorus. The calcium:phosphorus ratio should be between 1:1 to 1.3:1. b. If the diet deviates from these guidelines, refer back to #1-4.
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3
]
Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering. Waist is discernible viewed from above but is not prominent. Abdominal tuck apparent.
T O O H E AV Y
In these cases, the dog should either be fed a lower calorie maintenance or a weight management diet, or eat a homemade food with daily vitamin and mineral supplements calculated to supply the dog’s requirement. An “all life stages diet” with the high energy content of a puppy diet simply won’t do.
TOO THIN
Continued from page 28. caloric intake to approach a normal weight, and since manufacturers formulate their diets so that nutrients are provided in proportion to the calories, some of these dogs may actually experience nutrient deficiencies.
References American Association of Feed Control Officials, 2012 Official Publication, Oxford Indiana, 2012. Hazewinkel H. “Nutritional Management of Orthopedic Diseases”. Applied Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, Fascetti AJ and Delaney SJ, Eds. John Wiley and Sons, Oxford, UK, 2012. Nap RC, Hazewinkel H, Voorhout G, van den Brom WE, Goedegebuure SA, van ‘t Klooster AT. “Growth and skeletal development in great Dane pups fed different levels of protein intake”. J Nutr. November 1991; 121(11 Suppl): S107-13. National Research Council, Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. The National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
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industry innovations Equine GI formula upgraded
Pollock oil rich in Omega
Uckele’s most popular formula has been upgraded. G.U.T. provides effective and economical support for horses prone to gastric upset. eleanor Kellon, VMD, describes the formula as “a time proven blend of pre and probiotics with nutrients to support healthy cellular function throughout the GI tract. Highly palatable even for the pickiest eaters.” It can stabilize even the most sensitive horse’s GI Tract.
Hailing from the Bering sea, wild Alaskan pollock is an excellent natural source of fish oil. Grizzly Pollock Oil provides long chain omega 3 fatty acids ePA and DHA, which typically have seven to ten times higher bioavailability than ALA from flax or other plant sources. ePA and DHA help maintain healthy skin, a lustrous coat, healthy joints and a sound cardiovascular system. DHA has also been shown to be very beneficial for the nervous system, eyes and for maintaining a naturally high fertility status. This product also boasts an omega 3/6 ratio in the range of 13 to 14 – one of the highest ratios in natural fish oils. This puts pollock oil close to wild salmon oil in efficacy, and far higher than farmed salmon oil, which has a typical omega 3/6 ratio range as low as two to three. An affordable option for dogs with skin issues.
• Broader, higher potency nutrient spectrum for total GI health • Now with soothing and protective marshmallow root, slippery elm bark and aloe vera gel extract
3
grizzlypetproducts.com
• Supports healthy gut flora • Aids detoxification systems for optimal gut function • Contains no aluminum
uckele.com
Testing services Many veterinarians are finding that more clients are asking for titer testing in lieu of annual vaccinations. Canine VacciCheck™ from spectrum Labs is a quick, simple and affordable dot eLIsA titer test kit that detects antibodies to CPV, CDV and CAV2. It yields results in as little as 21 minutes. Kits are 12 are available, or you can send serum to the lab for same day results. spectrum Labs also offers advanced allergy testing. sPoT Platinum uses new technology that increases each allergen’s ability to bind to the testing plate and retain its integrity for optimal binding to IgE; enhances the standardization and specificity of the allergenic extract to optimal protein concentration for even more consistent batch to batch results; utilizes new synthetic non-protein binding blocker technology to eliminate non-specific IgE; and “amplifies” the allergen specific IgE signal by absorbing competing IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies onto the buffer.
vetallergy.com
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Grant for brain tumor drug The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation, Inc., has awarded the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Veterinary Medicine and emory University a $119,000 grant over three years to test a newly developed experimental drug to treat dogs with naturally-occurring brain tumors, following partial surgical removal of those tumors. The goal of the research is to help translate new brain cancer therapies to humans by assessing results in dogs with similar diseases. According to the researchers, the tumors in dogs, known as spontaneous gliomas, are very similar to human malignant brain tumors both by imaging and biology, and both tend to grow back rapidly. The poor prognosis for dogs with gliomas is similar to human patients. The researchers are hoping the novel treatment being tested will slow down tumor growth.
news.emory.edu/stories/2013/01/canine_brain_tumor_trial/
Product Profile
allergieS
THeRe ARe ALTeRnATIVes To sTeRoIDs AnD AnTIBIoTICs By Deborah Brown with Ann Brightman There’s a DiFFerence BeTWeen a peT’S reacTion to an allergen, and a human’s. For the pet, it’s the skin that’s affected; for the human, it’s the respiratory tract. Basically, the reason allergens cause itchy skin is because they provoke the immune system into producing a protein called IgE – this happens whether the allergen is inhaled, ingested or comes into contact with the dog’s skin. The IgE protein attaches itself to the tissue mast cells in the skin, resulting in a release of histamine and other chemicals, causing irritation and itching. In dogs, these reactions only occur at significant levels in the skin. Dogs can experience allergic reactions to many things: substances in the environment, fleas and other parasites, and
T Y P I CAL RE AC T I ON S
• Face o Presentation - red, inflamed areas around the eyes and muzzle, weepy eyes, hair loss o action - scratching or rubbing face against objects
• earS o presentation - unusual odor, waxy residue, redness o action - thinning hair, shaking of head, scratching ears with paws or rubbing against furniture
• Skin/coaT o Presentation - redness, inflammation, bumps, white pustules, raw or bloody patches o action - licking, chewing, scratching
food. Finding the allergic trigger can be a challenge, as many pets develop allergies to multiple things. Typical allergic reactions associated with the skin can include itchy skin and/ or ear and skin infections. An allergic pet may develop secondary bacterial, fungal or mixed infections. Diagnosis via cytology to determine the type of infection is generally recommended, but it can take days to get the results. Conventional treatments usually include steroids and antibiotics, but can cause side effects in many dogs, especially with long term use. Breaking this antibiotic/steroid cycle, or limiting the use of these drugs, can be done with alternative products formulated for use with allergies. Zymox dermatology products, for example, have no known side effects and may be used concurrently with oral therapeutics, in those cases where antibiotics or steroids are warranted. Utilizing products that can help manage symptoms as well as resolve the infections, regardless of whether they’re fungal or bacterial, can prove beneficial and should be a part of a clinic’s product arsenals. Symptom relief is critical. In many cases, Zymox is used as an alternative to antibiotics to provide relief of itchy, allergic skin. The LP3 Enzyme system in all Zymox products is a patented combination of enzymes: lactoperoxidase, lactoferrin, and lysozyme. This enzyme system has anti-inflammatory benefits for calming and soothing itchy, irritated skin, plus proven antibacterial and antifungal properties to help manage secondary infections without the use of antibiotics.
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The major purpose of feeding raw bones is to clean the teeth. This can only be accomplished if the pet chews the bone. Gulping is not beneficial.
Raw bones what you need to know By Jodie Gruenstern, DVM, CVA lients used to accept at face value whatever recommendations were made by their veterinarians. But today, many do their own research on a wide variety of topics. Among these topics is feeding raw bones to pets. You also need to be well informed on this topic, since the safety and efficacy of raw bone consumption is dependent on proper bone selection. Saying “just don’t do it� will not be well received.
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A variety of bone types are generally fed as part of a raw diet. In addition to eating flesh and organs, these raw-fed dogs need to ingest a variety of bone types that also contain meat, marrow and cartilage, to satisfy nutrient needs. When bones are simply fed for recreational purposes, the composition becomes less important, but has an impact on safety and enjoyment.
The right size Basically, a client must choose the right-sized bone for the rightsized pet. It is not as simple as small pet/small bone or large pet/ large bone. Owners should be encouraged to observe how their pet chews and ingests a bone. An 80-pound golden retriever might daintily savor and nibble a chicken neck, while a Pomeranian might ravenously suck it down whole. In this instance, a long, slim duck neck might be the best choice for both. The vertebral size of the neck must be small enough not to lodge in the esophagus or small intestine. Even most hardcore bone feeders agree that turkey necks should not be fed to dogs. Turkey necks are too large. A longer bone, such as a duck neck, necessitates some chomping for it to go down. The major purpose of feeding raw bones is to clean the teeth. This can only be accomplished if the pet chews the bone. Gulping is not beneficial. Most large dogs will gulp short bones. Again, a duck neck is ideal as it is necessary for the dog to chew it.
Which type is best? The consumption of different types of bone is necessary to clean multiple surfaces of the teeth. • A duck neck may effectively clean the incisors or the molars. • A dog needs to stick his canines into a femur bone to remove the marrow. Cut marrow bones usually range in length from 2” to 5”. The size of the bone determines the amount of marrow contained within. Unlike the duck neck, the bone itself is minimally ingested. It is gnawed, but only the marrow is eaten. • Knuckle bones are generally scraped clean, through use of the molars and canines, and eventually eaten.
Reported problems • Bone firms stool; marrow does not. If a client says she can’t feed raw bones to her dog because they cause diarrhea, you can almost always guess that she gave the dog a marrow bone. You can advise this client to thaw the marrow bone and spoon out most of the marrow, leaving a tiny bit in the center so the pet has something to work for. This will alleviate the diarrhea problem. Too much marrow, like any fat, could also stimulate pancreatitis. However, raw fat is safer than cooked fat.
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• On the other hand, hard dry stools can mean too much bone consumption. This may occur if a dog is left to eat a large knuckle bone. Advise the client to supervise the ingestion of this bone. To avoid obstipation, think about the size of the dog and the proper size of its prey. Even a great Dane shouldn’t eat a beef or bison knuckle bone in one sitting. The bone should be taken away, put in a Ziploc and re-frozen. This mimics the behavior of wild dogs that partially consume a prey or bone, and then bury the rest for later. Warn clients that stool passed after bone consumption will be drier and gray/white in color. This is normal. • Know the appearance on a radiograph of
• Dogs can sometimes chip or break teeth on raw bones, although this can also occur when they chew on rocks or pull on cages. Most people who feed raw bones feel the benefits outweigh the risks. An otherwise healthy mouth with a decreased need for anesthetic episodes for dental prophylaxis is highly desirable to dog owners. Raw bones are safer than the other bone alternatives, such as smoked or boiled bones, which become brittle and should be taken away. Cooked bones should never be used. Also, warn clients against marrow bone rings, which can catch around teeth or lodge in the roof of the mouth.
HelpFUl TipS
normal bone presence and passage. • Until a natural bone size becomes available for a dog or cat under 15 pounds, such as seen in a mouse or sparrow, counsel owners of these pets to avoid raw bone feeding. This advice also applies to owners to brachycephalic dogs. • Recreational bone eaters are often so excited to receive a bone that they gobble it up way too fast. To alleviate this intensity, precede the bone with a “veggie meal” or slather the bone with some type of blended, fibrous vegetation. canned pumpkin or sweet potato works great. not only will this technique slow down the carnivorous appetite, but the mixing of fiber and chewed bone will aid safe passage.
• Bacterial contamination is a possibility. Salmonella is ubiquitous. Healthy dogs are naturally resistant, but those who are immune compromised should be cautious. Most commercial raw bone manufacturers rinse their products in lactic acid for additional safety. Local butchers may not. All raw products should be frozen for a minimum of two weeks; this kills parasites.
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• Explain to clients the warning signs of gastrointestinal obstruction and when they should seek to have a radiograph taken. Synthetic or edible fake bones are seen as common foreign body obstructions in many veterinary hospitals. Fed properly, raw bones can provide nutritional, dental and recreational benefits to dogs.
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THE HONEST KITCHEN Zeal dehydrated humangrade food from The Honest Kitchen, is ideal for dogs with allergies to common proteins. Made with pure, wild-caught fish (Icelandic Haddock, Whiting and Pacific Salmon) and free of grains, white potatoes, and flaxseed, it’s a simple, well-tolerated formula that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs, soothing and nourishing for pets with skin and ear problems.
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MED VET
BREEDER’S FORMULA®
Med Vet International is proud to announce our newly redesigned sterile Oasis Skin Stapler. The new lever action design allows it to fit comfortably in your hand to enhance control and reduce surgery time. The angled head and arrow indicator allow visibility for precise staple placement, while the staple count indicator gives you an accurate count of remaining staples. It comes with 35 pre-loaded staples that are available in two styles, wide and regular. This skin stapler is manufactured with quality construction in a simple design that provides consistent reliable performance and is affordable for any budget.
Breeder’s Formula® is a concentrated nutrient source formulated by veterinary nutritionists to promote healthy skin and relieve itching in dogs. Additional nutrients including L-tryptophan, thiamine and magnesium reduce anxious behavior and lessen compulsive licking and skin chewing. Available in 17.6 oz. (500 gram) and 70.4 oz. (2000 gram) bags.
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LifeDataLabs.com
AHVMA CONFERENCE LUSTROUS SHINE Goodwinol Shampoo is made up of all natural ingredients. This one of a kind, all purpose, medicated Shampoo is gentle enough for kittens and puppies. We have combined Lanolin and Benzocaine in a remarkably effective Cedar Oil base. Goodwinol Shampoo helps relieve itching, flaking and scratching. It leaves coats lustrous and imparts a glowing natural shine without the use of conditioners.
Goodwinol.com
Discover new approaches to veterinary care at the AHVMA Annual Conference, August 23-27, 2013. This year’s conference takes place at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown, in Kansas City, MO, and offers 122 hours of education. In addition, attendees will have access to a day at the CVC conference, which overlaps the AHVMA event, for a special one-day registration fee of only $100 (reg. approx. $300). Learn from the experts and spend time with like-minded veterinary professionals. Speakers include Karen Shaw Becker, DVM and IVC Journal’s own Christina Chambreau, DVM, as well as keynote speaker Barbara Fougere, DVM.
ahvma.org IVC Spring 2013
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Acupuncture for equine allergies By Taryn Dentinger, DVM, CVA
Allergy symptoms in equine patients are frequently challenging to treat with conventional therapies. Both the practitioner and caregiver are left frustrated while the patient continues to suffer the effects of these chronic disease processes. Western medicine will sometimes accept chronic conditions as a variant of “healthy” if they’re not life-threatening or debilitating. It has become routine to treat symptoms as they appear, but to disregard the underlying immune system dysfunction that leads to the allergy symptoms in the first place. When functioning properly, the immune system defends the body against foreign antigens and assists in maintaining healthy cell populations by removing dead and damaged cells. In order to do this, it must learn to distinguish “self” from “non-self”. Immune system dysfunction allows stimulation of an immune response directed against innocuous environmental antigens, and the resulting set of signs and symptoms are collectively termed “allergies”. The two main categories of chronic allergy syndrome in horses, not including immediate hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis reactions, are respiratory and dermatological. Conventional treatment frequently includes topical and/or parenteral application of corticosteroids, designed to suppress
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the overactive immune system. Owners and practitioners find inconsistent and variable responses to this therapy, and chronic use of corticosteroids is contraindicated due to adverse side effects. Owners frequently search for complementary therapies to help these horses.
TCVM medical theory In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), a symptom complex such as “allergies” is broken down into a pattern differential. Each individual animal has a different underlying pathology leading to his physical manifestations of respiratory or skin “allergies”. The Qi, or vital energy, involved in immune system function overall is called Zheng Qi. Zheng Qi incorporates properties of several other types of body Qi, including Yuan Qi (Source Qi), Gu Qi (Food Qi), Ying Qi (Nutrient Qi), and Wei Qi (Defensive Qi). • Yuan Qi is the energy an animal is born with; it is related to the energy of DNA and cellular processes in the embryo, and to the genetics of the animal. Yuan Qi is supplemented throughout life by Gu Qi. • Digestion provides the body with Gu Qi, and nutrition plays a large factor in the amount and quality of Gu Qi an animal possesses at any time.
Photographed by the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine: www.tcvm.com
• Ying Qi circulates in the blood and nourishes the body, and is derived from Gu Qi. In other words, Ying Qi is all the molecular products of digestion that are utilized for the normal function of all body cells. • Wei Qi is also derived from Gu Qi, and circulates superficially in the body to protect the integument from external pathogenic invasion. All these types of Qi correlate to various parts of the immune system. Normal Yuan Qi nourishes bone marrow so that the correct number and type of stem cells are present to produce appropriate white blood cells. Gu Qi assists in transforming undifferentiated cells into lymphocytes, neutrophils, macrophages, etc. These cells enter the bloodstream, and are thereby part of the Ying Qi in the body. Some of these cells, as part of their normal function, will exit the bloodstream and penetrate other tissues. At this point, they become part of the Wei Qi. These cells may reenter the bloodstream, becoming part of Ying Qi again. TCVM accounts for this flow of energy throughout the body by naming and describing the various types of Qi, while Western physiological theory identifies individual types and functions of cell. As with much of TCVM, we can correlate its unfamiliar terms and logic to known parts and functions of the body as we know it. The major organs involved in the TCVM theory of immune system function are the Lung and Kidney. Kidney is involved as the source of Yuan Qi and the Jing (root essence) for the individual animal. Kidney also pulls Qi down from the Lung, and therefore is in charge of inhalation, thus it’s directly related to respiratory allergy syndromes. Additionally, Kidney rules the bones and nervous system, and thus is responsible for proper bone marrow physiology and its production of white blood cells. The Lung dominates Qi and respiration. The Lung also
has a protective role for the rest of the body, distributing Wei Qi to the body surface and sending Qi down to the Kidney.
Acupuncture in action The first step in a TCVM approach to a horse with allergies is the physical exam. Similar to Western medicine, the TCVM exam systematically assesses different body systems and notes any abnormalities. But unlike the standard physical exam in Western medicine, this exam will assess individual acupuncture points for sensitivity, swelling or temperature change. Many acupuncture practitioners will also assess the animal’s tongue and pulse to enhance the TCVM pattern differentiation and diagnosis. A detailed history of the horse’s nutrition, housing, IVC Spring 2013
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photographed by the chi institute of chinese medicine: www.tcvm.com
CaSe STudy
Dr. carla pasteur instructs dry needle acupuncture techniques to a student in a chi institute equine acupuncture class Session 4 Wet lab.
behavior, exercise and interactions with other equines or humans will also assist the practitioner in achieving the best TCVM diagnosis. Two of the most common TCVM pattern diagnoses for horses with “allergies” are Kidney and/or Lung Qi Deficiency, and Lung Heat.
1
Kidney Qi Deficiency is frequently implicated in older animals; the underlying cause of allergic symptoms in these patients is the inability of the Kidney to properly nourish the bone marrow and pull the Qi of the lungs downward into the body. Kidney and/or Lung Qi Deficiency patients present with a history of a prolonged course of disease, exercise intolerance, and loss of breath. These horses may present with either respiratory or skin symptoms, or sometimes both. Treating a Kidney Qi deficient animal includes points to support the Kidney, as well as general Qi tonic points, and points directed specifically at the particular symptoms the animal displays.
eaCh indiVidual aniMal haS a diFFerenT underlyinG paTholoGy leadinG To hiS phySiCal ManiFeSTaTionS oF reSpiraTory or SKin “allerGieS”.
2
The Lung Heat TCVM pattern often presents as an animal with chronic dry cough and dyspnea, often worse in the summer. There may be a dry and/or thick nasal discharge. Heat signs in the skin manifest as redness and thick, sticky, malodorous discharges. Treatment for Lung Heat pattern should focus on clearing heat in general, and from the Lung in particular; clearing Phlegm (a TCVM term for any thick, “congealed” fluids within the body or on the body surface); and opening the Lungs to facilitate clearing Heat. As the Lungs control the body surface, these techniques will also clear Heat signs in the skin.
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Continued on page 42
Time is a 26-year-old Arabian gelding with a chronic history of progressively worsening allergy symptoms. He is very sensitive to insect bites, and reacts with large swellings, purulent discharge, hair loss and intense itching. He has also been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (“heaves”). Both symptom sets have been previously treated with corticosteroids of various types and administration schedules, over several summers. The summer prior to beginning acupuncture therapy, Time was continuously medicated the entire warm season. These medications do not work well, as he continues to display both skin lesions and respiratory dysfunction while medicated. He is worse during the summer, as both the presence of insects and the number of warm and humid days are increased. Interestingly, Time does not seem to have a significant hay allergy as part of his “heaves” symptoms since he does well in the winter despite being on an all-hay diet during that season. Time began acupuncture treatment in the spring, preceding the emergence of biting insects and hot/humid weather. He was diagnosed as a Kidney Qi Deficiency patient, and treated with dry needle acupuncture at the following points: lumbar Bai Hui, Shen shu, Shen jiao, Shen peng, BL 23, BL 13, LU 1, CV 22, ST 36, KI 3 and GV 4. Needles were left in place for 20 minutes per session, and he received treatments approximately every two weeks throughout the insect season. A few points varied per session, depending on other issues (Time also presented with a carpal lameness and was treated with acupuncture and Adequan for DJD of the carpus) and the degree of respiratory difficulty at each session. Other points that were sometimes added include GV 14, LU 7, LU 5, KI 1 and CV 17. During this complete season of treatment, Time did not require any corticosteroid administration to control either respiratory or skin allergies. He was maintained throughout the summer on bi-weekly acupuncture as his sole therapy. He did so well he was even being lightly ridden -- a marked improvement over the previous summer when he was medicated continuously with corticosteroids and was not rideable due to his allergy symptoms. Time continues to do well and requires fewer acupuncture sessions to maintain his comfort without medication. He continues to develop other health issues as an aging horse, yet his “heaves” and insect hypersensitivity are not among them.
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Continued from page 40
Photographed by the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine: www.tcvm.com
Chronic cases should be treated at one to two-week intervals until resolution of symptoms, at which point frequency of treatment may be titrated down to whatever interval best fits that individual horse. Acute cases respond best when initially treated several times per week, gradually tapering off to an appropriate maintenance schedule or discontinued entirely.
IMPLEMENTING ACUPUNCTURE THERAPY Acupuncture therapy for both respiratory and skin allergies in horses is rewarding given the owner’s commitment to following the prescribed schedule of treatments. It can reduce or eliminate the need for corticosteroid treatment, especially when performed in conjunction with appropriate environmental and husbandry changes. In general, acupuncture therapy for allergies in horses is most successful when begun before the allergy trigger is present in the environment. There is no downside to adding acupuncture to your arsenal for treating these frustrating symptom sets that cause our equine patients and their caregivers much distress.
A student practices dry needle acupuncture on a horse at a 2010 Chi Institute Equine Acupuncture Class Session 3 Wet Lab.
SELECTED ACUPOINTS FOR KIDNEY AND/OR LUNG QI DEFICIENCY ACUPOINT
ANATOMICAL LOCATION
ACTIONS/ATTRIBUTES
KI 3
Medial side, bottom of webbing between medial malleolus and Achilles tendon
Kidney source point
Shen shu
Classical Chinese point slightly caudolateral to lumbrosacral space
Kidney
bL 23
Lateral to dorsal spinous process L2
Association point for Kidney
bL 13
Lateral to dorsal spinous process T3
Association point for Lung
Lu 1
Center of pectoral muscle belly
Cough, asthma, wheezing
CV 22
Sternal notch of manubrium
Qi tonic, opens the chest
ST 36
Cranial tibialis muscle belly
General Qi tonic
SELECTED ACUPOINTS FOR LUNG HEAT ACUPOINT
42
ANATOMICAL LOCATION
ACTIONS/ATTRIBUTES
GV 14
dorsal midline at C7 – T1
Clears Heat
LI 11
Lateral side of cubital crease
damp Heat skin disease
Lu 5
Radial side of cubital crease
Hot skin conditions
ST 40
Halfway down the tibia, lateral to the Clears phlegm anterior tibia
CV 17
depression in center of manubrium, Qi tonic, opens the chest between forelimbs
IVC Spring 2013
Photographed by the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine: www.tcvm.com
SYMPTOMATIC
Jenn Winnick DVM, CVA practices dry needle acupuncture on a horse at a 2010 Chi Institute Equine Acupuncture Class Session 4 Wet Lab.
LAMENESS PART II
If you have an equine patient whose lameness isn’t responding well to treatment, consider how the fit of his saddle might be contributing to the problem. By Jochen Schleese, CMS, CEE, CSE In previous issues, we have discussed several aspects of a badly fitting saddle, which can lead to symptomatic appearances of various issues. Persistent lameness, back pain and S-I joint issues are just some of these. Some of the actual damage that can be caused by a culmination of one or more features on poorly fitting saddles include cartilage shearing at the shoulder blade, pinched nerves, vertebral subluxations, and muscle atrophy, to name but a few. What exactly is muscle atrophy? If a saddle puts too much pressure on a muscle because of being out of balance, the horse wants to avoid and lessen this pressure – resulting in a protective postural change that affects his gaits and causes muscle contraction. These muscles then begin to atrophy, as they will experience circulatory inhibition and less necessary nutritional supplementation. However, fix the problem and the picture can be changed for the better again. Muscle definition, on the other hand, can be considered either positive or negative, since muscles can develop correctly through training – or incorrectly as the result of “protective posture” as a measure against saddle pressure.
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 1: Incorrect definition of the muscles at the croup caused by a saddle which was too long, gullet channel too narrow (and possibly incorrect training!)
REFERENCES Schoen, Allen M. Veterinary Acupuncture: Ancient Art to Modern Medicine, 2nd ed., Mosby, 2001. Xie, Huisheng and Preast, Vanessa. Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine: Volume I, Fundamental Principles, Jing Tang, Reddick, FL, 2005. Xie, Huisheng and Preast, Vanessa. Xie’s Veterinary Acupuncture, Blackwell Publishing, 2007.
Photo 2: Muscle contraction at the flank as the result of a saddle pinching at the withers or on the vertebrae (tree angle incorrect; gullet channel too narrow.) JOCHEN SCHLEESE IS A CERTIFIED MASTER SADDLER WHO GRADUATED FROM PASSIER AND CAME TO CANADA AS OFFICIAL SADDLER AT THE 1986 WORLD DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS. HE REGISTERED THE TRADE OF SADDLERY IN NORTH AMERICA IN 1990. JOCHEN’S LIFELONG STUDY OF EQUINE DEVELOPMENT, SADDLE DESIGN, THE BIO-MECHANICS OF HORSE AND RIDER IN MOTION, AND THE EFFECTS OF ILL-FITTING SADDLES, LED TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SADDLEFIT 4 LIFE IN 2005 (SADDLEFIT4LIFE.COM), A GLOBAL NETWORK OF EQUINE PROFESSIONALS DEDICATED TO PROTECTING HORSE AND RIDER FROM LONG TERM DAMAGE.
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FOR IR HORSES ADDing these herBs to the mAnAgement ProgrAm of insulin resistAnt eQuines cAn helP them leAD longer, heAlthier liVes. Insulin Resistance mimics Cushing’s disease in many ways, although the horse does not have the benign pituitary adenoma present in the Cushing’s animal. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs (abnormal body fat distribution, abdominal fat, cresty neck, fatty shoulders, swollen sheaths in geldings), in combination with blood tests. Samples are usually taken for insulin, glucose and sometimes triglyceride levels. Although affected animals may be overweight, it is not always so. Most tend to be “easy keepers”, resistant to losing weight, or they may have been overweight as youngsters. Founder is usually a feature at some point, with changes seen in the hooves such as founder rings, or expansion of the white line, suggesting some founder has occurred despite the absence of apparent foot pain.
the PAthology of ir What exactly is IR and why do certain types of horses appear more susceptible to the condition? Normally, when carbohydrates are digested, they are converted into glucose which is absorbed through the gut wall and enters the bloodstream. Here, the hormone insulin acts like a key, allowing glucose to enter cells where it is used as an energy source by the body. Conversely, when glucose levels in the body drop, the production of insulin stops. Body fat was once thought to be just an energy reserve and protector of vital organs. Certain types of body fat, however, especially in the abdomen, are now thought to be actively involved in a number of metabolic processes, including cortisol production. One consequence of increased body fat is that it can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol produced. Cortisol is a natural steroid hormone, that among its many functions inhibits the action of insulin and provokes the flight or fight response to stress.
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By Hilary Self, BSc, MNIMH With high body fat stores, cortisol production levels remain high and are not switched off, leading to increased circulating levels of cortisol. This further inhibits the action of insulin, encouraging some of the cells to become “insulin resistant”, preventing the normal uptake of glucose by these cells and leading to high circulating blood glucose levels. But the body still needs an energy source to function correctly, so the liver starts to break down stored fat reserves (gluconeogenesis).
so hoW Do WilD horses surViVe? This process of storing and then using up body fat is believed to explain how tough, native breeds (ponies, Morgans, Paso Finos, Peruvians, Arabians) evolved in order to survive harsh winters. During the late spring, summer and fall when weather is warmer, food more plentiful and higher in sugars, these horses build up their stores of body fat. This natural build-up of fat ultimately leads to an increase in circulating cortisol levels, “insulin resistant cells” develop and as a consequence even more fat is laid down, which means the animal enters winter with a generous layer of body fat. During the winter and early spring, when the weather is cold, food is scarce and of low nutritional value, the horse can draw on these fat reserves to provide the energy needed to help keep himself warm. When the fat reserves are exhausted at the end of the winter, cortisol levels naturally drop, insulin resistance is reversed, and the animal arrives lean yet healthy in the spring, ready to start the whole cycle again. IR has arisen perhaps partly due to genetics and breeding, but also to the way in which horses and ponies are managed today. High levels of blood glucose, whether obtained excessively from the diet or because of insulin resistant cells, will eventually be converted and stored as fat, as seen
in wild ponies. Unlike their wild cousins, however, pampered domesticated horses are never required to go through the scarce food times of winter. We turn them out onto rich pastures, where they have no need to expend any energy searching for food. We then exacerbate the problem by giving them additional forage, providing inadequate exercise or activity, and then when the weather turns cold we cover them up with snug rugs, removing the need for them to expend energy to keep warm! No one wants to see a horse suffer, but we have to realise that we are effectively turning them out onto a “running buffet� 24/7, with little or no exercise to work off the energy generated.
hoW cAn herBs helP? First, it is important to emphasise that any herbal supplementation should be used in conjunction with a steady gradual fitness/ weight loss program. Regular exercise is essential to encourage loss of body weight, and a greater muscle mass will help with fat metabolism (muscles burn more calories). Daily turnout is vital; horses and ponies were designed to graze while on the move, which again encourages the burning of calories. Many of the herbs that can be utilised are exactly the same ones I would prescribe for an individual suffering from Type 2
TRIALS undertaken at the Montana State University on a
group of horses would appear to confirm the actions of psyllium. Over a two-month period, 16 horses of normal weight were given their usual daily ration along with various dosage levels of psyllium. On the final day of the study, each horse had a series of blood tests to determine blood glucose and insulin responses immediately after meals. The data showed that horses receiving a daily psyllium supplement had lower blood glucose levels after eating, and on higher doses of psyllium also had lower insulin concentrations af-ter meals, indicating greater sensitivity to the hormone. In humans, the plant has been found to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels by up to 9.8%, and helping to regulate blood sugar and blood lipid levels. IVC Spring 2013
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diabetes, a very similar condition to IR, which produces many of the symptoms we see in IR horses (obesity, lethargy, poor circulation, muscle wastage etc.). In this instance I would select herbs that can help: • Reduce glucose and insulin levels in the blood. This is the same action as Metformin, one of the main drugs used in IR • Reduce absorption of glucose from the gut. • Assist in the absorption of excess glucose in the bloodstream. • Promote cellular uptake of glucose. • Support liver function and regeneration – vital for efficient fat metabolism and removal of blood toxins. • Support bile salt production. • Support digestive process and gut health. • Normalize insulin sensitivity. • Reduce blood lipid levels. • Improve blood circulation. This article should give you an indication of how herbs can be used, in conjunction with dietary and exercise programs, to help support horses with IR.
Glossary
of helpful herbs Artichoke leaf (Cynara scolymus) is hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic. Artichoke significantly reduces serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is why we eat it at the beginning of meals as an appetizer; with its “bitter” action, it encourages the production of digestive juices and bile salts which are critical for digestion and absorption of fats and fat soluble vitamins. Artichoke is also a prebiotic that will help encourage production of “good” hind gut bacteria, and improve liver function necessary to help break down stored fat.
Psyllium husks (Plantago major) contain mucilage (a plant polysaccharide), a class of soluble fiber which is very hydrophilic (water-loving) and when ingested traps water in its cage-like structure, forming a gel and swelling to many times its original volume. Mucilages are a class of soluble fiber and psyllium in particular has been well studied and shown effective at lowering blood cholesterol, insulin and glucose levels. Soluble fiber helps retain glucose in the gut and reduce blood insulin levels after eating. The plant has also been shown to offer an anti-inflammatory and healing action on the digestive tract, as well as acting as a prebiotic. These actions are particularly relevant, as it has been suggested horses may struggle to absorb nutrients from their food if the integrity of the gut is compromised. Lack of nutrient absorption has been linked to the onset of some forms of founder.
Fenugree
(Trigonella foenum – graecum) is hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic and excellent for overall digestive health. It contains galactomannan, which aids with fat digestion. As an internal demulcent, it reduces inflammation and soothes and heals the mucosa of the stomach and intestines. Poor gut function has been linked to poor nutrient absorption and the increased risk of founder.
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a cholagogue, stimulating the production and flow of bile and aiding digestion of fats. Milk thistle is also hepatoprotective and has a strong antioxidant action (offering ten times the antioxidant action of vitamin E). Constituents in the seed also help reduce the permeability of the liver membrane, helping to protect the organ from damage by excessive circulating corticosteroids. The plant has been shown to enhance the synthesis of RNA and proteins and consequently cellular regeneration, speeding up the renewal of damaged liver cells.
Garlic (Allium sativum) is hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic, effectively reducing the levels of glucose in the bloodstream as well as lowering blood lipid levels and total cholesterol. Garlic has been shown to help clear fats accumulating in arteries, and is used extensively for diabetes. Garlic also acts as a prebiotic and as a chologogue.
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Goats rue (Galega officinalis) is hypoglycemic, and like psyllium, inhibits the absorption of glucose from the gut, thereby reducing the levels of sugar in the bloodstream. It also potentiates the effects of insulin, promoting uptake of glucose by the cells.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) contains gingerol, which has been shown to have prolonged hypoglycemic activity. Ginger is also a vasodilator and strong circulatory stimulant that will help encourage healthy blood supply to the vital organs and limbs.
Kelp (Fucus vesiculosis) has anti-obesity properties, and is rich in organic minerals, biotin and methionine needed to ensure healthy hoof growth, magnesium (low levels have been linked to IR), plus other minerals, trace elements, amino acids and vitamins.
Mint (Mentha piperata) is a digestive carminative, soothing to the GI system. It is also a good source of potassium and magnesium.
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a circulatory stimulant, rich in vitamin C, iron, sodium and dietary fiber. Cleansing and anti-diabetic, it will stimulate blood supply to vital organs and in particular to the limbs and feet.
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By Chris Bessent, DVM
CHINESE HERBS SCIENCE OR TRADITION? DISCUSSING THE TRADITIONAL APPLICATION OF HERBS is taboo
in the scientific community. How could an educated veterinarian entertain such blasphemy? In contrast, the scientific findings on herbs discussed by researchers may seem incomplete to the TCVM veterinarian. Both approaches have successes and yet they seem worlds apart. Whether using traditional TCVM principles or sciencebased medicine, it seems we are saying the same thing – just with different terminology.
HEAT CLEARING HERBS Many of the most profound heat clearing herbs – e.g. huang qin, scutellaria and huang lian, coptis – are known to have profound anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. From a TCVM perspective, heat clearing herbs are utilized in cases of excessive heat, seen as fever, restlessness, organ specific symptoms such as coughing or diarrhea. Excess heat patterns can be medically identified as acute infectious diseases, infectious fever, and non-infectious diseases such as autoimmune conditions. Huang lian, coptis is commonly used to treat excess heat dysentery, while huang qin, scutellaria may be used in cases of
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excess heat in the lungs. The pharmacologic properties of these herbs include antibacterial, antiviral, anti-endotoxin, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, immuno-regulating and anti-neoplasm effects. Therefore, huang lian and huang qin both clear heat and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
DAMP CLEARING HERBS Another example of similar principles using different terminology is damp clearing herbs. Dampness and damprelated disorders include edema, stranguria, difficult urination, jaundice, moist dermatitis, diarrhea and obesity. The TCVM concept of dampness is associated with edema and congestion of fluids within the body. Congestion is the abnormal or diminished transformation and/or transportation of fluid. The congestion of fluids could be anywhere in the body, especially the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, and the lower limbs. Edema is commonly seen in allopathic veterinary medicine, such as phlegm retention in the patient with bronchitis, hydrothorax, ascites or limb edema. Almost all herbs in the damp clearing category have diuretic effects and many have antibacterial benefits. Two commonly used damp clearing herbs are fu ling, poria and zhu ling, polyporus. Both drain dampness, promote urination, strengthen
spleen function and facilitate fluid metabolism. Both also have diuretic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, anti-neoplastic and immuno-regulating effects. Damp clearing herbs are gentle diuretics and have their place in clinical practice. Note that damp clearing herbs can have an additive effect to concurrent administration of pharmaceutical diuretics.
QI AND BLOOD MOVING HERBS Some of the most commonly used and quick-acting herbs are blood and Qi moving herbs. The speed of resolving pain makes this category of herbs very popular in modern practice. Painful bi patterns in TCVM are often seen in patients with a medical diagnosis of various forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lumbar back pain and sciatica. Almost all herbs in this category have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. For example, du hou, angelica pubescent has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, hypotensive and antibacterial effects. Du hou is seen in formulas such as du hou ji sheng san, a traditional herbal formula used to move Qi and blood as well as tonify liver and kidney yin seen in chronic bi pain.
HEART SHEN CALMING HERBS
Fear, insomnia and anxiety are all signs of heart shen disturbance. TCVM will treat this disturbance using two different principles: herbs either anchor, settle and calm the shen or nourish the heart and calm the shen. The pharmacologic effects of herbs that calm shen are sedative, hypnotic and anti-convulsive.
REFERENCES Ru xiang, frankincense/boswellia and Mo yao, myrrh are frequently-used blood moving herbs with anti-inflammatory properties. They mediate their anti-inflammatory actions via inhibition of cyclooygenase -1, cyclooygenase -2, and 5-lipooxygenase activity. Heat clearing or anti-inflammatory…damp draining or diuretic…traditional Chinese veterinary medicine and allopathic veterinary medicine many times utilize the same principles. They just use different terminology.
THE TREND CONTINUES • Herbs that relieve food stagnation contain digestive enzymes, vitamins, promote peristalsis and increase digestive fluids. • Herbs that stop bleeding reduce coagulation times, inhibit fibrinolysis, contract local vessels and increase capillary resistance. • Herbs that extinguish wind have anti-convulsive, sedative, and hypotensive effects. • Herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough have anti-tussive, expectorant and anti-asthmatic properties. • Warming herbs tend to have stimulant effects, increase metabolism and increase cAMP. • Cold and cooling herbs will have CNS, endocrine, and metabolism inhibitory effects.
Akihisa T, Yasukawa K, Oinuma H etal. “Triterpene alcohols from the flowers of compositae and their anti-inflammatory effects”. Phytochemistry, 1996 Dec;43(6):1255-60. Ammom HP. “Boswellic acids in chronic inflammatory diseases” Planta Med. 2006 Oct; 72(12):1100-16. Banno N, Akihisa T, Yasukawa K, etal. “Anti-inflammatory activities of the triterpene acids from the resin of Boswellia carteri”. J Ethnopharmacol, 2006 Sep19;107(2):249-53. Bensky, Dan & Barolet Randall. Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas and Strategies. Eastland Press, 1990. Chen, J K, Chen TT. Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications for Veterinarians. Art of Medicine Press, 2012. Chen, J K, Chen TT. Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications. Art of Medicine Press, 2009. Han SB, Lee CW, Yoon TD et al. “Prevention of arthritic inflammation using an oriental herbal combination BDX-1 isolated from Achyranthes bidentata and Atractylodes japonica”. Arch Pharm Res, 2005 Aug;28(8):902-8. Hu H, Hang B, Wang P. “Anti-inflammatory effect of radix Angelicae sinensis”. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi, 1991 Nov;16(11):684-6, 704. Koo Hj, Lim KH, Jung HJ, et al. “Anti-inflammatory evaluation of gardenia extract, geniposide and genipin”. J Ethnopharacol, 2006 Feb 20;103(3):496-500. Mitchel, Craig, Feng Ye, Wiseman Nigel. “Shang Han Lun On Cold Damage” by Zhang Ji (Zhang Zhong – Jing) (circa 150-219 c.e.). Reddey GK, Chandrakasan G, Dhar SC. “Studies on the metabolism of glycosaminoglycans under the influence of new herbal anti-inflammatory agents”. Biochem Pharmacol, 1989 Oct 15;38(20):3527-34. Sato Y, He JX, Nagai H, Tani T, Akao T. “Isoliquiritigenin, one of the antispasmodic principles of Glycyrrhiza ularensis roots, acts in the lower part of intestine”. Bio Pharm Bull, 2007 Jan;30(1):145-9. Shou-zhong, Yang and Yuan-yu, Cao. “The Divine Farmers Materia Medica, A translation of the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing.” Shanghai Science & Technology Press, 1987. Toriizuka K, Kamiki H, Ohmura NY, et al. “Anxiolytic effect of Gardeniae Fructus-extract containing active ingredient from Kamishoyosan (KSS), a Japanese traditional Kampo medicine.” Life Sci, 2005 Oct 28;77(24):3010-20. Vishwakarma SL, Pal SC, Kasture VS, Kasture SB. “Anxiolytic and antiemetic activity of Zingiber officinale.” Phytother Res 2002 Nov;16(7):621-6. Xie, TCM Formula Study Guide, Midwest College of Oriental Medicine, 2012. Yan, Wu. Practical Therapeutics of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Paradigm Publications, 1944. Yao Y, Wu WY, Liu AH, etal. “Interaction of salvianolic acids and notoginsengnosides in inhibition of ADP-induced platelet aggregation”. Am J Chin Med, 2008;36(2):313-28.
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Study: Reproducibility of allergenspecific I g E assays and ensuing treatment recommendations By Jon D. Plant, DVM, DACVD Allergen-specific IgE assays often serve as the basis for formulating allergenic extracts used in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agreement of diagnostic results and the ensuing treatment recommendations of four commercially-available serum allergy tests. Replicate serum samples from four atopic dogs were submitted to each of four laboratories in the United States. Standard, regional panels and treatment recommendations were requested from each laboratory and the interlaboratory agreement was analyzed with the kappa statistic (k) to account for agreement that might occur merely by chance. The overall chance-corrected agreement of the positive/negative test results was poor (k< 0.2), as was the overall agreement of the treatment recommendations. Altogether, 80.6% of antigen recommendations were unique to one laboratory, 15.3% were shared by two laboratories, 2.4% were shared by three laboratories, and 1.6% were shared by all four laboratories. Our study indicates that a veterinarianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice of an allergen-specific IgE testing laboratory is likely to have a major influence on the reported results and the ensuing treatment recommendations. Further studies are required to generalize these findings to a larger population of dogs and to determine the degree to which these differences influence treatment outcomes.
Figure 1: Total number of pairwise agreements and disagreements between four serum allergy testing laboratories for tests on four dogs. DX = positive/negative diagnostic agreement; TX = include/exclude treatment recommendation agreement; ungrouped = antigens evaluated as tested; grouped = phylogenetically related and cross-reactive antigens considered equivalent; Neg = negative; Pos = positive.
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tech talk
in the clinic settingâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; part 2
By Michelle J. Rivera, MT, VDT
How this ancient art of placement can help you and your colleagues maintain wellbeing and harmony in the workplace.
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I
n the first part of this article (IVC, Winter 2013), we talked about how Feng Shui can be used in veterinary practices to enhance the environment as well as interactions with staff, clients and the animals we are entrusted to work with. We will now address some of the traditional cures used in Feng Shui, as well as the colors that can adjust and move energy so the work environment is balanced and allows for optimal productivity.
What is a “cure”? A Feng Shui cure is an adjustment you can make that positively shifts the energy of your home, property or workplace. When you change the energy of your environment with a cure, you can experience new, positive influences from that environment. Cures put the power of Feng Shui in your hands, and by applying them you can change your life in any area you wish. There are many “schools” of Feng Shui and this ancient art also can encompass oral traditions. For the purpose of this article, and to simplify the enormous array of cures, we will limit our discussion to reliable and simple methods that can be brought into any veterinary practice.
Mirrors Mirrors are known as “the aspirin of Feng Shui”. They can be used to draw in as well as reflect energy. When in doubt about which cure to use, the mirror will serve you well. The mirror can be any shape – square, rectangular, round or octagonal. Octagonal mirrors tend to have the most powerful and positive symbology, and if possible should be the first choice. Square and rectangular mirrors symbolize balance, and round mirrors symbolize oneness and unity. A mirror can add light or brightness, attract new energy to your space, repel harmful or negative Qi, redirect energy flow, restore a missing space in a room or building, and expand an area to energetically create more space. An example of where you might use a mirror would be on the front door of your practice. The front door is considered “the mouth of Qi” and sets the tone for the whole practice. If the front door faces an unsightly or negative structure, the mirror will redirect the energy away from your facility when it’s placed using the Mudra, Mantra and intention discussed in Part 1 of this article. If the front door faces something beautiful, peaceful or auspicious, the mirror will bring in that positive energy and allow it to flow smoothly into the practice. Continued on page 54. IVC Spring 2013
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Color cures Color can affect every area of our lives, and opportunities for using it to improve the environment are innumerable. Color can adjust the energy of an entire room, change a mood or activate an emotion and the subconscious mind for success. Color can be used by painting a room or just adding a hint of a particular hue in an object such as a flower, book or painting. When we talk of color, we can use shaded variations to soften, evoke intensity, or add subtly to our lives. In veterinary medicine, there are many important colors you can incorporate into the practice so you may work in harmony with others and help heal your patients. • GREEN signifies new life, new beginnings, growth, vitality, energy and hope. It is the color of spring and can be used in waiting rooms. Clients come to us for a variety of reasons, ranging from treatment for their animals and education for their care, to emergences and surgery. All these situations need hope and vitality. • PURPLE is the color of wealth and royalty. It’s the extreme value of red – the Chinese saying “it’s so red it’s purple” means great energy and power. This is an excellent color to put in areas of power such as doctor’s offices, treatment areas and
the pharmacy. Purple has a calming and clearing effect. It help keep thinking uncluttered and maintain balance in our thoughts. • BLUE signifies knowledge, the sky, life and hope and is a very good color to put in exam rooms. Blue promotes the healing process both physically and mentally. • YELLOW and EARTH TONES are the colors of health, the earth, grounding and connection. They can be used in areas where we gain nourishment, such as kitchens and break rooms. Yellow is also good for the reception area because it keeps our first line of defense grounded, uplifted and connected. Many transaction mistakes can be alleviated if yellow is in place to keep reception staff alert and thinking clearly. • RED is a very powerful color and offers protection, energy and activity. Too much red can make us ill, so it is best to use it as an accent in areas such as surgery and rehabilitation rooms. If your practice has a space for training or lectures, red will help keep attendees awake, engaged and able to hear the power of whatever is being demonstrated in this room. Generally, red is used on the front door as strong protection from negative influences.
Continued from page 53. Mirrors may also be placed above desks. This allows for clear and accurate thought, which in the case of receptionists can enhance accuracy. If receptionists are reviewing the charges incurred and prescriptions dispensed, mirrors will greatly eradicate mistakes in these areas. Mirrors above the doctors’ desks help encourage a clear and uninterrupted train of thought when deciding treatment protocols, options and plans. They can help keep doctors on track with appointments and restore calmness between patient visits. Remember, you must put in the intention of what you would like to happen when you place the mirror, and say the Mantra nine times. If your office is set up with long corridors, and/or if clients tend to come in and walk past the reception desk without checking in, this is usually due to Qi whisking them through, causing confusion and chaos. By placing a mirror at the end of the hall, or on the wall beyond the reception desk, the Qi will be slowed down and allow clients to walk in and see where they need to be, helping to ensure smooth movement through the practice.
Chimes and bells Sound is very effective for clearing out old and negative energy and bringing in new and positive energy. The most powerful sound cure would be one with a ringing quality such as chimes, bells and gongs. Sound can awaken and alert, stimulate new energy, provide protection, and create harmony, peace and balance. Wind chimes can be used for a multitude of curing purposes, inside and out. Metal chimes tend to be best because they emit
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a clear tone, and brass is the most favored metal. However, the beauty of Feng Shui is that what resonates with you is what will work, so if you favor the sound of something other than metal, feel free to use it. If over time you do not gain the result you were looking for, then you may need to re-evaluate your choice. When hanging chimes, the use of a red ribbon/string/thread will give the best results. Hanging a wind chime outside the front door of your practice will enliven and enhance the energy coming into the facility. The gentle sound of the chimes will help calm an upset client, which in turn calms a patient in distress. The energy of an outside wind chime also brings prosperity into the practice, which can mean payments made at the time services are rendered. Many large animal facilities have trouble collecting payment; putting wind chimes outside the facility can greatly reduce the number of receivable accounts. Hanging chimes or bells on doors inside the practice will awaken energy and make the staff work optimally even in the most chaotic circumstances. This is particularly important in treatment rooms and pharmacies where we must perform without mistakes. Brass bells placed on the reception desk and rung after each client leaves can ensure a cleansing of possible negativity as well as a clearing for the next transaction and client when they come through.
Plants and animals A living cure can be utilized anywhere in a space. This particular cure actually uses the energy or vitality of the living plant, fish, bird, etc. Plants and flowers are used in Feng Shui to bring color into a space as well as symbolize new life and growth. Rounded leaves are generally best as opposed to pointed leaves. Sick and dying plants should never be used. The most powerful plants and flowers are live ones, and the second best is silk. Dried arrangements are “dead” Qi and should really not be used because they can negatively influence your environment and the people in it. If you must use a dried flower arrangement, just be sure it is not placed on the front door; as we stated earlier, this is the mouth of Qi.
Outside landscaping should incorporate plants and herbs that can help heal ourselves and our patients. Generally, what grows abundantly in the landscape is what we need, so it is not uncommon for catnip to grow well for veterinary practices, dandelions to be prolific for detoxification and lavender to flourish for its healing and calming properties. Fish are very auspicious and can bring prosperity into the practice. Traditionally, nine goldfish in total – eight gold and one black – will bring the most prosperity. The fish and environment must be healthy and aesthetically pleasing for this cure to be effective. The water must be clear and not murky, and algae levels must be adequate for the tank and not take over and become unsightly. If any fish die, replace them at once. Continued on page 56.
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Advertorial Continued from page 55. Birds and other in-clinic animals are also very important and give vitality and energy to the practice. Again, they should be happy and healthy; any signs they are not need to be addressed as soon as possible or negative energy will impact the clinic environment.
Water The final cure we will touch on is water, which in veterinary practices is sorely lacking. Fountains and waterfalls create new energy flow in the environment. Moving water creates sound and instigates a healthy refreshing release of negative ions. This provides a sense of well-being and makes breathing a bit easier. Flowing water means flowing money; a fountain placed by the front entryway will allow money to come into your practice. The best fountains are ones in which you can see the flow of water, and the water pools rather than disappearing immediately. Another powerful fountain is one that works like a turning water wheel. Having a small motion-activated fountain in your exam room and reception area will ensure timely movement with appointments. All these cures will work providing you add your Mantra and Mudra nine times, include your positive intention, and re-evaluate your environment periodically. You may need to adjust and re-adjust your cures as you see and feel the changes in your workplace. Incorporating some of these Feng Shui cures into your facility will help with all aspects of the veterinary practice, from attracting clients and patients to collecting fees and having a healthier, happier workplace with less employee turnover. In the next issue, we will discuss the Ba-Gua, a cleansing ritual, and more cures for your practice.
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By Heidi Lobprise, DVM
any
cat owner can tell you the answer to that question – and it’s a resounding “yes”! While studies may show that the memory of cats can range from a short time up to 16 hours in some, the outward response of individual cats may be quite varied. Responses to positive stimuli such as feeding and companionship are certainly recognized, but responses that demonstrate an upset kitty often get the most attention. Since cats can’t verbalize their displeasure, unwelcome behaviors often occur, including house-soiling (urinating or defecating outside the litter box or someplace else in the house), vocalization or even irritability or aggression. Unless you are really aware of some of the warning signs, or can figure out what change or event triggered the behaviors, it can be very difficult to pinpoint what is wrong and know how to help fix it. The first steps are to provide a complete veterinary evaluation, often including blood work and a urinalysis, to rule out any possible medical conditions (for example, a bladder infection or pain). Stress from changes in the environment can lead to anxiety about what might happen next, and can trigger unwanted behaviors. ANXITANE® (L-Theanine) Tablets are an amino acid supplement that has been shown to help reduce anxiety in dogs and cats, without using a prescription drug. Along with behavioral modification, reducing the stress levels of a cat might help resolve some of the issues.
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Advertorial
DEMYSTIFYING ALLERGIES Allergy season is upon us and we once again begin to scratch our heads as to the best course of treatment for an atopic patient. By Kim Perkins, PhD
As you know, the best definition of an allergy is “a classic
overreaction by the immune system to an otherwise harmless substance.” A pollen such as Bermuda grass is typically harmless, but to the atopic patient, there is the potential that his immune system will identify this pollen as harmful, setting off a cascade of events in the immune system that results in the increased production of allergen-specific IgE (in this case anti-Bermuda IgE).
Like all antibody isotypes, IgE is composed of two fragments, Fab and Fc. The Fab fragment has a high affinity to the allergen against which it was produced while the Fc fragment has a high affinity to specific receptors on the surface of mast cells. In our example, the Bermuda grass IgE bound to mast cells via the Fc fragment would bind any incoming Bermuda grass at the Fab fragment. Further exposure to the allergen results in IgE cross-linking and ultimate degranulation of the mast cell, resulting in the release of histamine, bradykinin, serine proteases and other factors that result in the onset of symptoms (see figure). While both serum and intradermal allergy testing have their merits, this article will summarize the overall benefits of the serum testing approach. In its early years serum testing came under severe criticism, but many of these criticisms were addressed with the development of the SPOT Test. The newest iteration, the SPOT Platinum, takes serum allergy testing a stage further by making this the most sensitive and specific test available in the industry. The goal of the test is to measure the amount of allergen specific IgE in the serum. Due to the relatively low abundance of serum IgE and interference from other antibody isotypes, namely IgA, IgM, IgD and especially IgG, standard ELISA assays are subject to dramatic false negative results. The first patented technique in the SPOT Platinum assay is binding of the allergen to the solid surface while, at the same time, retaining the three-dimensional structure of the allergen for maximum antibody binding. Concurrently, it is important to block the binding sites for all antibody isotypes other than IgE. These two steps increase both the specificity and sensitivity of the test greater
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than 97%. Add to this the modifications in regents at other steps in the assay and you have a test that not only answers past criticisms but surpasses them, making the SPOT Platinum the method of choice for allergen identification. Food allergy testing has in itself taken its share of criticism. Anecdotal studies available for review (outside the scope of this article) have shown a significant (53%) decrease in symptoms simply by introducing a diet change based on the allergy testing results. When combined with hyposensitization to inhalant allergens, the expected improvement rates can exceed 85%.
TYPE I HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTION B-cell receives message from T-cell.
Macrophage devours allergen and ‘displays’ the pieces on its surface, then sends a message to T-cell to begin identification.
Enters body through a major portal of entry i.e skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract - swallowed up by Macrophage.
Allergen ‘bridges’ two-IgE molecules on the surface of the Mast Cell/Basophilactivating the Mast Cell/Basophil.
Activated Mast Cells/Basophils release mediators (histamine, SRS-A Bradykinin etc.) causing allergy symptoms.
The type I (IgE) mediated allergy reaction
Plasma Cell
T-cell identifies the allergen and signals the B-cell to transform into a plasma cell.
Plasma cell produces antibody (IgE) against specific antigen. The IgE binds to the surface of Mast Cell/Basophil. The immune system is now ‘sensitized’ to a particular antigen.
KIM PERKINS JOINED THE SPECTRUM GROUP IN EARLY 2012 AND IS CURRENTLY THE LABORATORY DIRECTOR WHERE HE OVERSEES THE DEVELOPMENT, OPTIMIZATION AND MANUFACTURE OF VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC ASSAYS. HE OBTAINED HIS PH.D. FROM ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY WHILE STUDYING THE MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF VIRAL PATHOGENESIS, FOCUSING ON THE ROLE VIRAL DSRNA-BINDING PROTEINS PLAY IN DISEASE. HE HAS PRESENTED AT SEVERAL CONFERENCES, BOTH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL, INCLUDING THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CELL BIOLOGY, VIROLOGY AND MICROBIOLOGY, AND WAS AN INVITED SPEAKER AT THE INTERNATIONAL ANGIOGENESIS CONFERENCE IN GREECE.
Veterinary Resource Guide ASSISTIVE DEVICES HandicappedPet.com Amherst, NH USA Phone: (603) 577-8858 Website: www.handicappedpets.com Best Friend Mobility Myrtle Beach, SC USA Phone: (503) 575-9407 Email: sylvan@sylvancompany.com Website: www.bestfriendmobility.org
ASSOCIATIONS Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy - AVH Leucadia, CA USA Phone: (866) 652-1590 Website: www.theavh.org American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture - AAVA Glastonbury, CT USA Phone: (860) 632-9911 Email: aava@cttel.net Website: www.aava.org
EverGlo-Naturals Gloria Dodd, DVM Gualala, CA USA Phone: 707-785-9171 Email: everglo@mcn.org Website: www.holisticvetpetcare.net
Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine TCVM Reddick, FL USA Phone: (352) 591-5385 Email: register@tcvm.com Website: www.tcvm.com
Mark Newkirk, VMD Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Egg Harbor Township, NJ USA Toll Free: (609) 645-2120 Phone: (609) 645-2120 Website: www.alternativevet.com
Veterinary Information Network - VIN Davis, CA USA Phone: (530) 756-4881 Email: vingram@vin.com Website: www.vin.com
Steven Marsden, DVM Edmonton Holistic Veterinary Clinic Edmonton, AB Canada Phone: 780-436-4944
Herbsmith Inc. Hartland, WI USA Phone: (262) 367-1372 Email: mail@herbsmithinc.com Website: www.herbsmithinc.com
NATURAL PRODUCT
MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS GenesisValley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.genesispets.com
American Veterinary Chiropractic Association - AVCA Bluejacket, OK USA Phone: (918) 784-2231 Email: avcainfo@junct.com Website: www.animalchiropractic.org Association of Veterinary Acupunturists of Canada - AVAC Beaconsfield, QC Canada Phone: (514) 697-0295 Email: office@avac.ca Website: www.avac.ca National Animal Supplement Council - NASC Valley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.nasc.cc
EQUINE NATUROPATH Cassie Schuster, ND, MHWaller, TX USA Phone: (713) 502-0765 Email: cassie.schuster@yahoo.com Website: www.wellranch.com
INTEGRATIVE VETS Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 757-3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Website: www.holisticpetvet.com
SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION
SUPPLEMENTS
MVP Laboratories Omaha, NE USA Phone: (402) 331-5106 Email: mvplabs@mvplabs.com Website: www.mvplabs.com SmartPak Plymouth, MA USA Phone: (774) 773-1125 Email: customercare@smartpak.com Website: www.smartpak.com The Honest Kitchen San Diego, CA USA Phone: (858) 483-5995 Email: info@thehonestkitchen.com Website: www.thehonestkitchen.com
THERMAL IMAGING
Animal Spirit Network Pekin, IL USA Phone: (815) 531-2850 Email: carol@animalspiritnetwork.com Website: www.animalspiritnetwork.com College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies - CIVT Rozelle, NSW Australia Phone: (303) 800-5460 Website: www.civtedu.org
Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc Offering Small, Hands-On Intensive Classes in Animal Massage and Bodywork 1-800-251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net www.integratedtouchtherapy.com
-PetMassage Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute Castle Pines, CO USA Phone: (303) 681-3033 Email: nancy@animalacupressure.com Website: www.animalacupressure.com
POST JOBS HERE
All types of different modalities YOUR LISTING HERE
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integrative practice
WHAT’S YOUR VISION? HoW To CREATE A HAPPIER ANd MoRE SuCCESSfuL PRACTICE By Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH
Do you wake up each morning excited to go to work? Do you have great client compliance? What about your staff – do they smile and laugh during the day? Is your profit margin sufficient? If you’ve answered yes, read no further. If not, don’t worry - all these aspirations, and more, can be possible.
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While many practices in the last five years have seen significant losses in income, and cuts in personal and staff salaries, others are expanding and actually increasing incomes. What’s the difference and how can you turn things around?
ONE - Visualize your wish list Evidence is showing that thoughts can help create both your experience of events and the results you focus on.1 Visualizing your ideal practice is critical to both financial and personal success. Start by writing down, as if you are already living it, details from when you get up in the morning, through your practice day, until you arrive home and go to bed. Be passionate. Use all your senses. The more specific you are, the more likely you will be to bring your vision into reality. Consider details such as the modalities you’re using, your income, and whether you’re working with others or alone. Next, create a short term visualization based on your current circumstances, following the guidelines above. What could you do to be more passionate and excited? Which of your dreams apply to the present? For example, you’d love to have a mobile chiropractic practice yet you now work at a conventional clinic. Though you are recently certified in chiropractic, few clients accept this modality. Envision the receptionists and technicians suggesting chiropractic, the other veterinarians referring cases to you, and clients asking for your new skill. How does it feel to use chiropractic rather than surgery for an ACL? If you have staff, it’s critically important for them to also take part in these visualization processes. By being aware of their wish lists, you can better utilize each person and support his or her future goals. Finally, have the whole team create a vision for the entire clinic, using all the senses and speaking as if it is already happening.
TWO - Set goals The brain is neurologically organized to respond to goals as a priority.2 Every goal needs to be specific and be given a timeframe. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day! From your visualization statements, identify one or two next steps you can take to be happy and successful now. For each goal, set a onemonth, six-month, one-year, and five-year step. Be specific.
PRACTICE GOALS one goal may be to have a 10% increase in practice net income next year, and to expand your integrative options without increasing hours. What alternative options can you offer? What products can you sell and will they be replacing conventional sales? What promotions could you do? What education for your IVC Spring 2013
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clients would generate an increase in the net? What forms of residual income can you create in your practice? for each strategy, set a specific goal such as: “Have three affiliate programs on the website generating $500 per month within two months.”
A SAMPLE of SuCCESS one veterinarian with some holistic training was frustrated because not every client wanted the holistic options she suggested. once she and her staff used the vision approach and set goals, changes began. Now she and her staff ask clients which approach they would prefer at each visit. She has educational tools in the waiting room for her new approaches and trains her staff. As she learns more and shares her successes, the clients are more willing to try the alternative approaches. She has not taken an IVd to surgery in two years. She is happy with her current pace of switching to her ultimate integrative vision.
Client goals you can also set goals and create visions for each of your clients. When people have new animals, or when you are beginning to treat serious or long standing problems, it helps to set out treatment plans and see if your goals match those of the owners.
Personal goals one goal needs to be time and money allocated for personal growth. To truly be happy and successful, we must spend at least 25% of our time in personal development. This journal as well as publications from the holistic veterinary associations, spiritual work, meditation, business consultations and more are available in all types of media. Since most holistic modalities have a spiritual basis, studying the principles and philosophy of your favorite will also help you grow personally. Consider attending the AHVMA conference and/or the healing retreats (even if you do not attend the conference). forging peer, mentor and teaching relationships will help with both practice and personal growth.
THREE - Evaluate results You do this daily as you treat patients. You have a baseline (physical or lab work), you treat, then you see how the baseline changes. Integrative training gives us even more ways to evaluate the reaction of a patient to any type of treatment – whether it’s cured (all symptoms are better and the animal generally much healthier); palliated (current symptoms resolved but no general improvement in health, and treatment often needs to be continued or repeated) or suppressed (symptoms quickly resolve yet the animal becomes more ill). These categories apply equally to your veterinary practice! Maybe you’ve noticed less income from lab work, so you institute a bonus for increased laboratory volume. Within a week you are seeing significant boost in income. Within the next month, though, you hear complaints from clients about pressure to do unnecessary tests, and even staff seem less happy. This would be an example of suppression. You try a new approach by offering a variety of choices for clients ranging from lab tests to Reiki and other holistic approaches not dependent on specific lab tests. You offer bonuses for increased revenue from multiple streams of treatments and tests. Over the next month, you see a slow increase in income as staff and clients begin selecting these new modalities and your staff say they are happy with the new strategy.
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Continued on page 64.
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Continued from page 62. When the entire staff sets goals, post them with timelines and review them at every staff meeting. If goals are not being met, first check back with the practice vision to see if the goals are still aligned with it. Then problem solve, looking for new opportunities to achieve the goal. When staff or clients have complaints, refer back to the vision and goal to see if the solutions are already in place.
Enjoy the positive energy These strategies will work for every person with the commitment and discipline to implement them. There is no reason for a person to be dissatisfied, poor or unhappy when we have many successful, happy mentors around us. Be appreciative of others, grateful every moment, contribute to others and nurture yourself, your family, staff and clients.
HOLISTIC PROBLEM-SOLVING Holistic principles and philosophy will be of great use in solving problems. If you are trained in TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine), your patient evaluation includes social interactions, air quality, weather and seasons, history, current symptoms, etc. See how applicable this would be to your practice problems? 1. Is there stagnation or blocked flow? Maybe the invoice forms do not yet have the alternative methods listed with fees. 2. Is there increased Yang, or deficient Yin? Clients may feel pressured or that there is not enough guidance. 3. What are the meridians in your practice, your life and your modalities and what are the actual points? Pay attention to the times when problems occur and you may be able to create a solution.
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Holistically, we recognize that symptoms often reflect deeper problems. In your practice, the current problem usually reflects something deeper, even if it is easy to “fix” temporarily. From a homeopathic perspective, you would carefully “take the case” of the problem with possible etiologies. Dialog with others for more perspective. Write down and quantify all “symptoms” of your “ill practice.” Record any modalities (what makes each problem better or worse). Maybe you realized that adding flower essences and Reiki to your practice would benefit most patients, and you structured the fees appropriately. Your staff was trained to suggest these modalities, especially in surgical cases. As you evaluate the results, there has been 50% less income than expected. When you carefully “take the case”, you see that certain days generate more income. Several staff are very excited about this approach, but most are not. While you did your best to get all staff on board, more is needed. You research some of the AHVMA articles on practice management and see that actually having staff use flower essences on their own animals, and carefully pointing out how specific dogs are easier to handle after Reiki, may spark their interest.
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McTaggert, Lynn. The Intention Experiment. www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/the-science-of-setting-goals.html
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AHVMA and AVH annual conferences – lectures by Mitchell, Chambreau, Bernstein, Basko, Pollak, Yasson, Schoen, Kidd and more. Non- veterinary empowerment materials – JimRohn.com; PeakPotentials.com; PeakAspirations.com; RichDadPoorDad.com; www.robinsharma.com; (www.DocOrman.com; www.SuccessPrinciples.com, etc.
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events AAVMC Annual Conference March 6-10, 2013 – Alexandria, VA The theme of this year’s conference is Diversity and Inclusion: Excellence in Institutional Planning, Teaching, and Assessment in Veterinary Medical Education. You will find an excellent line up of sessions on topics such as campus climate and culture, diversity in food supply veterinary medicine, leadership, and clinical assessment. You will also have the opportunity to convene with worldwide leaders in academic veterinary medicine, and share in the discussions that shape the future of the profession. For more information: (703) 253-8602 sarak.green@westin.com www.aavmc.org
Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Spring Symposium April 24 -28, 2013 – Cancun, Mexico VECCS is committed to offering its members the highest quality of Continuing Education regardless of venue. This year’s symposium will be held at the JW Marriott Cancun Beach Resort and Spa. There will be plenty of time between lecture sessions to enjoy endless white sandy beaches, sailing, reef diving, inland tours to Aztec ruins and more. Featured speakers include Dr. Erica Reinke, DVM, DACVECC and Dr. Matt Mellema, DVM, DACVECC as well as other professionals that will also be contributing to the program. Be sure to register early since there is limited registration for VECCS members-only.
American Animal Hospital Association Annual Conference March 14-17, 2013 – Phoenix, AZ This year there is a refreshing line-up of new and unique continuing education, along with some of the educational staples you’ve always loved from AAHA. This is the only veterinary conference that focuses exclusively on companion animal care and you’ll receive top education and exceptional networking. For more information: (800) 883-6301 aaha@aahanet.org www.aahanet.org/Education/Phoenix2013.aspx
129th CVMA Annual Meeting & Convention
For more information: (800) 948-3227 info@veccs.org www.veccs.org
Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy Annual Conference April 26 -28, 2013 – Tampa, FL The time has come to register for another homeopathic adventure - this time in Tampa, Florida on April 26-28, 2013! We embark on this adventure with the theme of Homeopathy: an enduring paradigm. We’ll be next to the ocean in the beautiful Clearwater Beach hotel with full amenities and the company of like-minded practitioners sharing experience and warmth.
March 26 -27, 2013 – Hartford, CT At this meeting and convention you will find a variety of different programs offered including the Small Animal Practitioners Program covering feline and canine lower urinary tract disease as well as the Large Animal Practitioners Program, Practice Management Program and Technician/Assistant Program.
Among many talents, speakers include Kim Elia and Sue Armstrong. Those of us who’ve had the pleasure and honor to attend their lectures know what a treat that will be!
For more information: (860) 635-7770 info@ctvet.org www.ctvet.org
For more information: (866) 652-1590 www.theAVH.org
Stay tuned for more info on the lectures, and register soon while the early bird fees apply! AVH in Clearwater will be a blast!
2013 Massachusetts VMA Spring CE Conference May 8, 2013 – Westborough, MA MVMA’s mission is to promote the veterinary profession, improve animal well-being and public health and provide programs and services that enhance the ability of member veterinarians to succeed. Join the Continuing Education conference in May 2013! For more information: (508) 460-9333 staff@massvet.org www.massvet.org
CVC Conference for Veterinary Care May 9-13, 2013 – Washington, DC For more than 20 years, CVC’s vision has been to provide veterinarians, veterinary technicians, practice managers, and team members the best convention experience possible by offering premium educational programming, expert clinical education, hands-on labs and workshops, practice management programs, and team training sessions. Offered at three convenient locations annually: Washington (DC), Kansas City, and San Diego. For more information: (800) 255-6864 cvc@advanstar.com www.thecvc.com
Maryland VMA Mid-Atlantic State Veterinary Clinic May 16, 2013 – West Friendship, MD If you are a practitioner of small animal or equine veterinary medicine, this is a premier opportunity for continuing education, business information and networking. There are also educational opportunities for technicians, farriers and students. For more information: (443) 507-6500 mvma@managementalliance.com www.mdvma.org
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