NAPet-Winter2012 by Natural Awakenings of East Michigan

HEALTHY LIVING FOR A HAPPY PET be good purr often wag more

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COLD WEATHER PROTECTION Tips from the Humane Society

ACUPUNCTURE FOR PETS

CESAR MILLAN

Not Just For Humans Anymore

Winter 2012

PINT-SIZED PETS

The Dog Whisperer On Training

East Michigan Edition

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Smaller Pets Have Big Potential

NAHealthyPet.com Winter • 2012

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contents 7

5 petbriefs

7 petstories

8 smallpets

10 trainingtips

12 kittycorner

14 horsetales 16 wisewords

20 naturalpet

22 pettherapy

25 adoptionspotlights

26 petcalendar

27 ongoingevents

30 petresourceguide

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings Healthy Pet or request a media kit, contact us at 248-628-0125 or email: Advertising@NAHealthyPet.com. Deadline for ads: 10th of the month prior to each issue. Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@NAHealthyPet.com. Editorial deadling: 1st of the month prior to each issue. calendar submissions Submit online: NAHealthyPet.com & click on Pet Calendar Email to: Calendar@NAHealthyPet.com. Please see guidelines on our website first Calendar deadline: 10th of the month prior to each issue. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Natural Awakenings

is uses recycled newsprint and soy-based ink.

Please recycle all unused copies of

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6 HELPING PETS

IN THE WINTER Tips From the

Humane Society

10 CESAR MILLAN

DOG WHISPERER Work With Mother Nature

by Sandra Murphey

12 NAUSEOUS PETS Causes and Cures by Dr. Matthew J. Heller

14 LEARNING FROM

HORSEPLAY Henry Ford West Bloomfield Executive Team Finds Out by Leah Juarez

16 DARYL HANNAH

14 16

Loving A Sustainable Life by S. Alison Chabonais

18 SAYING GOODBYE

Memorials Help Ease Grief by Sandra Murphey

20 ACUPUNCTURE Not Just for Humans by Dr. Jenny Taylor

22 VIBRATIONAL

MEDICINE Relief Without Breaking

the Bank by Dr. John M. Simon

21 Fall â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

letterfrompublishers

A production of: Michigan Healthy Living and Sustainability, Inc. dba

Natural Awakenings of East Michigan

Phone: 248-628-0125 Fax: 866-556-5205

Publishers

Tracy & Jerry Neale publisher@NAHealthyPet.com

Editorial and Layout Team

Sharon Bruckman • Kim Cerne Allison Chabonais • Leah Juarez Tracy Neale • Linda Sechrist

Sales & Marketing Jerry Neale Tina Callard

National Franchise Sales John Voell, II • 239-530-1377 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

NAHealthyPet .com © 2012 by Natural Awakenings of East Michigan and Michigan Healthy Living and Sustainability, Inc. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that written permission be obtained in advance. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products or services advertised. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your medical professional and/or veterinarian.

We welcome your ideas, articles and comments.

Subscriptions:

Happy New Year!

e're anxious for 2012 to get going. We have a lot going on that we want to share with you. We're starting the New Year with our Winter issue, which contains lots of great information for you to help keep your pet healthy. We've got articles on a couple of well-known people: Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer, and Daryl Hannah, who is a regular activist for both environmental and animal rights. Add to that the local content we're bringing you this quarter and there should be something here for everyone. We hope you enjoy all of it and benefit. Right now, it looks as if Natural Awakenings Pet will be expanding into Wayne County this Spring. We've been getting many requests from readers and businesses. Watch our website for more on that. A few other exciting new projects to tell you about include the new Natural Awakenings iPhone/iPad App. Launched just a week ago, it was downloaded over one thousand times...before we even had a chance to begin promoting it! If you have an iPhone or iPad, you'll have to check it out. It includes an article archives, links to all the Natural Awakenings magazines and an online directory of businesses and practitioners. You can download it free on the iTunes App Store. Another new project we're launching this month is our new Facebook page for the Natural Awakenings Network of East Michigan. We're just getting Phase II of the program underway, and we believe that social networking will compliment the process by allowing regular communications between the various Providers and the community. If you haven't checked out our website recently, you'll have to see our new look, which includes our online news and articles sections. We've also integrated video into the website and are busy creating and placing videos of practitioners and events in our community. Watch for regular updates. And don't forget about our 5th Annual "Spring Into Health" Natural Health Fair and Expo, coming up March 31, 2012 in Grand Blanc. It's become one of the most popular, and many of the businesses and practitioners have products and services for pets as well as people. We hope to see you there. Information on all of these programs can be found by clicking the appropriate links on our website: NAHealthyPet.com. Again, Happy New Year to all...both people and pets. We wish you all peace, prosperity and good health in the coming year. Until next month, stay happy and healthy...naturally!

By Mail: $12 (4 quarterly issues) Natural Awakenings Subscriptions P.O. Box 283 • Oxford, MI • 48371

FREE Digital Subscription: NAHealthyPet.com Natural Awakenings is printed using recyclable newsprint and soy-based ink.

East Michigan Pet Edition

petbriefs Survival Guide Covers Cancer In Dogs

ccording to the authors of The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum Treatments to Optimize Your Dog’s Life Quality & Longevity, over one thousand dog owners a day get the heart-breaking news that their dog has cancer. Cancer is the single largest killer of dogs in the United States (outside of shelter euthanasia). Dr. Demian Dressler, DVM and Dr. Susan Ettinger, DVM, Dip. ACVIM (Oncology) released the book in paperback a few months ago. When a dog lover learns of the diagnosis, they often have many questions. Questions that most veterinarians don’t have the time or training to address in detail during an office visit. The 496 page book addresses just about every question a dog owner would want (or need) to know about canine cancer. It is available online and and in traditional bookstores. The book covers all aspects of canine cancer including: • Conventional western veterinary treatments including how to reduce their side effects. • The most effective non-conventional options, including botanical nutraceuticals, supplements, nutrition, and mind-body medicine. • How to analyze the options and develop a specific plan for your own dog based on your dog’s type of cancer, your dog’s age, your financial and time budget, your personality, and many other personal factors. The veterinarian-authors say that “no matter what you’ve heard, there are always steps you can take to help your dog fight (and even beat) cancer.”

For more information, visit DogCancerBook.com.

The Michigan Winter Dog Classic

illed as Michigan’s largest Dog Show, the Michigan Winter Dog Classic will take place January 19-22 at the Suburban Collection in Novi, Michigan. The whole family is invited to attend. Among the offerings at this year's show are educational demonstrations, obedience & conformation judging, breed seminars and access to many of the 160+ breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, the Oakland County Kennel Club and the Livonia Kennel Club and sanctioned by the American Kennel Club. The Suburban Showcase Selection is located at 46100 Grand River, Novi. For more information, visit TheMichiganWinterDogClassic.com.

Need help getting the word out? I don't believe in the concept of hell, but if I did I would think of it as filled with people who were cruel to animals. –Gary Larson

www.NAHealthyPet.com

Trap, Neuter, Release Training In Warren

n Sunday, January 8th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All About Animals Rescue will be holding their Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) Training program in Warren.

Those who attend will learn best practices and gain access to the benefits of our TNR program, which includes discount feral cat spay/neuter, trap loans and networking. It's for anyone interested in learning how to help free roaming cats and those who would like to gain access to the benefits of the TNR program. They will cover how to trap, the tricks and tips of trapping, how to manage a colony, the proper nutrition and medical care needed and be available to answer your questions. To register, send them an email at tnr@allaboutanimalsrescue.org. Provide your name, phone number, address and reference TNR workshop in your email. There will be a $10 fee for the TNR handbook to cover printing costs. All About Animals Rescue is located at 23451 Pinewood, Warren. For more information, call 586-879-1745 or visit AllAboutAnimalsRescue.com.

Call us today to find out how Natural Awakenings Pet tools and resources are designed to work successfully for you. 248-628-0125 Winter • 2012

petbriefs MHS Cruelty Investigators Hit the Road to Help Pets in Need Do you have a special event in the community? Open a new office? Move? Recently become certified in a new modality?

Tips from the Michigan Humane Society to Save Lives and Protect Pets During the Cold Weather

he cold weather is here, and with it comes the snow, slush and grey of another Michigan winter. But what may just be an inconvenience for us can be lifethreatening for pets. Every year, dogs and cats in the metro Detroit area will be left outside, forced to face the frigid winds and extreme temperatures with no food, water and shelter. With its Cruelty Investigation Department already responding to high numbers of weather-related calls, the Michigan Humane Society (MHS) is urging pet owners to protect their pets with these cold weather safety tips. “If we had our way, no pets would be kept outside in this weather,” said Debby MacDonald, MHS Chief Cruelty Investigator and Facility Director of the MHS Detroit Center for Animal Care. “But because the law allows them to be kept outside as long as they have adequate food, water and shelter, we’re going to be out there making sure they have the proper provisions.” If pet owners leave their animals outdoors for any length of time, they are required by Michigan state law to provide enough food and water, as well as adequate shelter. MHS recommends that dogs be provided a well-built, insulated, slant-roofed dog house. The interior should be just large enough for the dog to stand and to lie down comfortably and slightly elevated from the ground for air circulation. The door should face away from prevailing winds and have a protective flap to eliminate drafts. Clean, dry straw should be provided for bedding, rather than towels, rugs or blankets, which absorb moisture and freeze in frigid temperatures. Examples of inadequate shelter frequently encountered by MHS Cruelty Investigators include an unheated garage or shed, a dog house that is too large or lacks straw, or dogs simply tied out to a porch, fence or deck with no shelter at all. Additionally, MHS recommends the following pet safety tips: • When temperatures plummet, pets should not be left outside for any length of time. Be sure to bring small or short-haired pets in when temperatures reach 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit, and take into account precipitation and wind chill. • Cats should be kept indoors or at least brought into a warm, animal proofed garage during severe weather.

Pet Briefs.

We welcome news items relevant to the subject matter of our magazine. We also welcome any suggestions you may have for a news item. Visit our website for guidelines and a convenient online submission form to guide you through the submission process.

NAHealthyPet.com 6

• Roaming cats often seek the warmth of car engines, so be sure to knock on the car hood or honk the horn before starting your car to startle them and give them a chance to escape. • Increase the amount of food you provide for dogs left outside by 10-20 percent during the winter months. The extra calories are needed to help an animal stay warm. • Regular access to clean, unfrozen water is also critical. Check drinking water frequently – every few hours – to ensure that it is unfrozen. • If an animal is cold to the touch, or his paws and ears are pale, he may be suffering from frostbite. Move the animal to a warmer area and contact your veterinarian immediately. The Michigan Humane Society is a private, nonprofit organization which cares for more than 100,000 animals each year, while working to end companion animal homelessness, provide the highest quality service and compassion to the animals entrusted to our care, and to be a leader in promoting humane values. For more information, please visit www.MichiganHumane.org, or call 1-866-MHUMANE.

East Michigan Pet Edition

petstories

Man's Best Friend Turns Out To Be Woman's Too by Susan Noguera I've been a dog lover all my life, but it wasn't until recently that I learned to appreciate their ability to detect human illnesses, often before they are even diagnosed. I've read numerous stories about dogs saving family members from fire disasters, seen documentaries about the heroic acts courageous military dogs and police canines have displayed and I remember watching in awe how a trained retriever warned its human of an epileptic seizure approximately ten minutes before its onset. Dogs have long been used in search and rescue missions during national disasters because of their keen sense of smell. I believe it ís that powerful nose that may very well have saved my life. This summer, my 1-1/2 year-old Lhasa-Poo mix, Jojo, was incessantly interested in my lower stomach. He would sniff and lick until my clothes were damp. This strange behavior happened many times over several weeks. Normally he just curls up beside me. Now, however, he would curl up facing me and place his head across my stomach, deliberately forcing me to stay in a reclined position. I was beginning to become alarmed by Jojo's constant interest in my body. I had no open sores or pain or bleeding of any kind. The only unusual condition was my tiriing more easily than normal, which I attributed that to

Jojo and Susan being 61 years old and spending a great deal of time outdoors. After several weeks, I decided to investigate possible reasons for Jojo's persistence. Realizing it had been approximately 2-1/2 years since my last visit to my gynecologist, I made an appointment for an annual exam and thought no more about it. Jojo's incessant maneuvers continued. I've lived some 30 years with fibroid tumors so as part of my yearly exam I would always receive an ultrasound to check their condition and to better examine my ovaries. Never had there been anything unusual. Now, however, there was a polyp attached to the endometrial lining of my uterus,

along with a lot of fluid that needed to be surgically removed. A D&C was performed and the polyp removed and sent to pathology for analysis. My doctor assured me that in 90 percent of menopausal women these polyps are benign. As it turned out, I required further treatment. The polyp contained Stage I cancer that needed surgery. While I waited at home for my scheduled surgery date I noticed that Jojo was no longer interested in my stomach. I took that as a good sign, hoping it meant my cancer had been removed along with the polyp and that my body was free of the disease. I eventually had the surgery three months ago and I'm happy to say that I am on the mend, without need for chemotherapy or further treatment. I am fortunate that my doctor found this condition early, before it spread. But what I'm most thankful for is Jojo and his persistent interest in my lower stomach. Had he not drawn my attention to this area on my body I may not have gone to see the doctor when I did, and the outcome would have been much different. I've learned a couple of great lessons from this experience: never put off a yearly gynecologic–exam no matter how well you feel–and never ever underestimate the power of a dog's nose. Both could save your life! Susan Noguera lives in White Lake, MI, and has been teaching writing and journalism at the college level for 17 years. She has two published print-ondemand photographic/prose anthologies, Primary Colors in Nature and Secondary Colors in Nature. To contact Susan email slnoguera@msn.com.

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Winter • 2012

smallpets

overcrowding. “It is best to error on the side of fewer fish; you can always add more,” she says. “A good initial combination can be darting petras, slower moving mollies and guppies, interactive oscars, and plecostomus bottom feeders.”

PINT-SIZED

PETS

Smaller Pets Have Big Potential by Randy Kambic

Whether they crawl, swim, hop or fly, speak, make other sounds or stay silent, many small wonders can make ideal pets.

hile 85 percent of U.S. households with pets feature a dog or a cat, giving a home to smaller friendly creatures can mean less maintenance and less cost—including only tiny stomachs to fill and no vaccinations. Downsizing to wellconsidered domesticated companions also provides uncommon windows to animal behavior for adults and youngsters alike. Apparently, many appreciate these benefits. The same 2011 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey that reported on dogs and cats also showed that 12.6 million residences have fish; 5.7 million, birds; 5 million, small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, mice and rats); and 4.6 million, reptiles. “These animals pose a world of possibilities,” says Veterinarian Dr. Kimberly Weiss, owner of Heartland Healing Hands, in Oklahoma City.

“They all have individual needs. Having them around starts as something cool, a special cachet for a youngster, and then, if fostered by parents, into a special sense of responsibility.”

Fish Watching colorful fish swim around an aquarium encourages a serene, soothing feeling. In addition to their traditional purview in kids’ bedrooms and seafood restaurants, more workplaces and physicians’ offices sport tanks these days. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Melinda Fernyhough, Ph.D., a manager with the Hartz Mountain Corporation, recommends that a first collection encompass a variety of species that happily coexist, behave differently, and don’t lead to

East Michigan Pet Edition

Birds For first-time bird guardians, “Consider starting off with a small bird, such as a parakeet, cockatiel or canary,” says Dr. John Simon, a veterinarian and owner of Woodside Animal Clinic, in Royal Oak, Michigan. “If you are more adventurous, consider what you desire most in a bird— how much talking you expect, its appearance, level of friendliness—and how much it will grow. Some larger breeds, such as Amazon parrots, macaws and cockatoos, can live 60 or 70 years, so your selection could remain in your family for generations. If you’re away a lot, consider housing two of the same breed; they can keep each other company.” There’s no magic to producing a talker. “The more interaction, attention and mental stimulation, the happier the bird and greater inclination to talk,” advises Weiss. She suggests taking a bird out of its cage regularly and providing lead- and zinc-free mirrors, noisemakers and other toys to ward off boredom. Favorite gabbers include African greys, macaws and double-yellow-headed Amazons; cockatoos are more prone to imitate sounds.

Small Animals While many rabbits do not like to be held and cuddled and hamsters can sometimes nip if awakened or startled, guinea pigs are typically friendly and often enjoy interaction with people. They can emit a charming chirp or “oink” sound when petted or touched. Smaller rodents like gerbils, mice and rats love scurrying around their cages and “jogging” in wheels. Hamsters and rats are sometimes active at night, so their cages might not be suitable in bedrooms. Guinea pigs are more docile and sleep much more. “These ‘pocket pets’ like fresh veggies to supplement their nutrition—green beans, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peas, spinach,

arugula and green peppers,” advises Seattle-based Veterinarian Dr. Darla Rewers, owner of Ancient Arts Holistic Services. “Rabbits should get more of the lettuce-type greens, but limit the spinach, because it is high in calcium.”

Reptiles Whether it’s the dinosaur-like appearance of an iguana, flicking tongue of a chameleon, intricate scale patterns of a snake or wise-looking turtle head, the exotic appearance of reptiles fascinates children. They take up little space inside a small aquarium and their lack of fur prevents potential allergic reactions. However, some reptiles need special lighting and specific amounts of water; maintaining proper levels of heat and humidity is vital to some of them in order to replicate their natural environment. It’s best to learn as much as you can about a potential pet before bringing it home. Understanding species temperament, behavior patterns, maintenance needs, diet and average lifespan helps you know what to expect beforehand and ultimately to better enjoy your choice of the small-pet experience. Find tips on small animal ownership and care at Hartz.com and American PetProducts.org. Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a freelance writer and a copyeditor for Natural Awakenings.

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Winter • 2012

trainingtips

Cesar Millan

DOG WHISPERER Never work against Mother Nature; always work with her. by Sandra Murphy

esar Millan learned the benefits of collaborating with nature from his mentor grandfather, and continues to rely on this commonsense approach to life, including in his work with dogs. Years of in-depth research and observations have guided the development of his training philosophies, which are broadcast in 110 countries via his Dog Whisperer series, now airing on National Geographic Wild. “I believe it is important to be as educated about your passion as you can be,” says Millan, a certified trainer and bestselling author on the subject. “I listen to every perspective and point of view. Every system of belief about dog behavior can have something important to contribute. The fun part of my job is teaching pet owners to create balanced and healthy relationships within

the home,” he continues. “Often, the human can’t see how their behavior is affecting the dog.” Millan’s website tells the story of his original “Aha!” moment. It was while working with actress Jada Pinkett (now Smith) and her dog that he first realized he was not training dogs, but people. “We both achieved confidence through weeks and weeks of hands-on training practice, based on the body language she expressed, the thoughts she focused on and the energy she projected when she was with her dogs,” Millan relates. “I knew then that this would be my new challenge and my mission—training people to understand how to communicate with their dogs.” In a nutshell, he believes that dog training is something created by humans, but that dog psychology—what he tries to get his clients to practice first and foremost—is created by Mother Nature. Natural Awakenings asked Millan to summarize the cornerstones of his approach.

East Michigan Pet Edition

First on the list of essentials is exercise. For a dog, exercise is more than just a walk—it’s a chance to use stored energy and see new sights. It’s also a social event. “A proper walk exercises the dog not just physically, but also mentally. Practice a properly disciplined walk for a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes a day,” Millan advises. “You can visit a dog park later for play and affection.” Second in importance is discipline. Discipline is about realizing the order of the pack—defining which one is the decision-maker—and is not to be confused with punishment. “Dogs have found themselves in an odd predicament by living with humans,” explains Millan.

No matter the age, there is always something new to be learned—by both the dog and the human.

“In the wild, dogs have a leader, work for food, and travel with the pack. When we bring them into our world, we need to help them achieve balance by fulfilling their needs as nature intended. This means maintaining your calm, assertive pack leadership.” The third part of achieving mutual understanding is affection. “We tend to give affection, affection, affection,” says Millan. “It can lead to bad outcomes if not balanced with exercise and discipline.” Exercise is especially important to remember for small dogs that are frequently carried around, sometimes termed “handbag hounds”. Following the lead of some high-profile celebrities, the popularity of these dogs is on the rise, with unfortunate consequences for the animals. As owners tire of the responsibility, dogs are turned in at shelters, some barely able to walk, due to muscle loss or lack of muscle development, because they have been off their feet far too much. “A dog is not a toy or an accessory. A dog is a living creature, and when you adopt one, your commitment is for the extent of their life,” Millan advises. “The decision to adopt a dog should be treated with the same careful attention you use to decide where to live, whether or not to have children or if you wish to be married. This choice is just as life-changing and just as fulfilling as any other major life decision.” Millan’s most important personal relationships are with his two sons and two dogs. One of his favorite books is Wayne Dyer’s The Power of Intention. “We create our own outcomes,” Millan says, “and I have found this principle can be applied to all the relationships in our life. “Dogs are instinctually intelligent and live in the present. Being in the moment is probably the single most important lesson they can teach us,” Millan remarks. “Never stop maintaining or growing a dog’s balance. They communicate and glide through life based on energy; I am always inspired by that gift.”

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Winter • 2012

kittycorner

NAUSEOUS PETS Causes and Cures by Dr. Matthew J. Heller

It is rare to find a pet owner that has not suffered through bouts of vomiting by their furry friend. We’ve all cleaned the floor or furniture, shaking our head and wondering what caused the mess.

he leading pet medical insurer, Veterinary Pet Insurance (Pet Insurance.com), ranks vomiting among the five leading causes of claims for dogs. It’s a common symptom caused by various conditions or illnesses, some simple and others more complex.

Simple Causes Dietary Indiscretions – One of the more common causes of vomiting in dogs is careless eating. Fluffy may knock over the trash can and eat some rancid leftovers; be a little too enthusiastic in gobbling meals; or like to snack on grass or landscape mulch. Generally, dogs that commit any of these acts tend to heave it back up in a relatively short period of time. Pharmaceuticals can aid in controlling such

East Michigan Pet Edition

vomiting, while herbal medicines such as Happy Earth Formula (a combination of Chinese herbal remedies) work to gently soothe an upset stomach. As a general guideline, if a dog is retching due to a suspected dietary indiscretion, it is advisable to withhold food and water for 12 to 24 hours, and then gradually resume normal feeding over the next 24 to 36 hours. If there is no noticeable improvement within the first 24 hours or toxic plants, flowers or other poisonous culprits caused the vomiting, call or take the pet to a vet immediately. Possible Food Sensitivity – If a cat or dog begins to vomit after being introduced to a new diet, it may be sensitive to one of the new ingredients. If the new diet contains more fillers

or byproducts, the pet may be having problems properly digesting the food. Reading a pet food label identifies ingredients. Motion Sickness – While we enjoy seeing a happy dog inhaling the fresh air with its head or nose outside a car window, some canines succumb to motion sickness, nausea and even vomiting. Pharmaceuticals (such as sedatives) and herbal medications are available to treat such discomforts. Intestinal Parasites – Many kittens and puppies are born with intestinal parasites. If a young animal is infested with roundworms or microscopic hookworms, it may begin to vomit them up. Most veterinarians recommend routine deworming throughout the first few months of life. Adverse Reaction to Medications – Dogs, like humans, can sometimes suffer nausea and vomiting as an anticipated side effect of a prescribed medication. If a pet vomits after receiving antibiotics, contact a veterinarian for advice. Some anti-inflammatory pain relief medications also may cause vomiting. Many holistic medicine proponents attest that one benefit of non-pharmaceutical options—including therapeutic laser treatment or designated herbal medicines—is their lack of negative side effects. If puking is a pet’s only symptom, the chances are good that the cause is relatively simple, inviting a straightforward treatment plan. However, if the pet is also experiencing other symptoms, such as a fever, constipation or diarrhea, if other signs of systemic distress appear, such as shallow breathing or neurological abnormalities, then it is vital to immediately consult a vet.

Prior to the domestication of small feline companions, cats consumed rodents and similar prey as their main food source, so contamination was not a concern. Cats will eject hairballs as a result of excessive grooming or some food sensitivity. may be required for successful treatment. Laboratory blood work will diagnose it. Foreign Object Obstruction – Sometimes dogs chew up and swallow non-food items like a plastic toy or a stone. If the dog is lucky, the object passes out of the digestive track in the stool. Other times, the foreign object may become lodged in either the stomach or the intestines, and surgery may be required to remove it. If you witness your dog consuming a questionable object, immediately call a veterinarian. Generally, because a pet’s vomiting may range from the straightforward to the unusual, particularly in dogs, providing context and details of its behavior is a huge help for a vet in determining the level of seriousness. Dr. Matthew J. Heller is a holistic veterinarian and owner of All About PetCare, in Middletown, OH.

Some veterinarians theorize that dogs vomit

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more readily than cats in order to protect themselves from eating spoiled or contaminated foods.

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248-628-0125 More Serious Issues Sometimes, vomiting may be a symptom of a more serious illness. The following are several usual causes. Liver and Kidney Disease – When chronic (or acute) kidney or liver disease is present, the pet’s body is not able to break down toxins and process them properly, so it becomes nauseous and vomits. A compromised kidney or liver function may result from consuming poisonous products or a viral or bacterial infection. Pancreatitis – Dogs can suffer from acute pancreatitis as a result of consuming overly rich and fatty foods, like hot dogs or sausages (sometimes acquired via trash bin raids). In addition to vomiting, a dog’s belly often will be tender to the touch and the animal will appear lethargic. Some breeds may be more genetically disposed to pancreatitis, such as schnauzers and Yorkies. Pancreatitis is serious and hospitalization

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Winter • 2012

horsetales

Learning From HorsePlay By Leah Juarez

hen the executive team at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital embraced their mission to take “heath and healing beyond the boundaries of imagination,” they probably didn’t imagine that this would include facing the outdoor elements of cold November winds, muddy pastures and having to side step an occasional pile of horse manure. But, embrace it they did, by participating in a professional leadership-training program in which horses are the main instructors. The program, facilitated by professional business consultant and coaching group, Pitts-Aldrich Associates (PAA), is called HorsePlay, and it provides an example of the latest role that horses are playing in the lives of humans – that of an executive business consultant. “Horses have a lot to teach us,” explains PAA President, Christina Pitts. “They’ve existed for 55 million years. That’s a lot longer than humans have been around, so they can teach

us a great deal about thriving in all aspects of living.” She continues, “Horses are born leaders. They trust their senses, know their purpose and take clear action. They are social animals who live in a community, and their herds thrive by developing leadership skills and responsibility shared by all members.” PAA Partner, Lynne Aldrich continues these same thoughts, “We learn extraordinary things about ourselves through these experiences. Horses mirror what humans think and feel in the moment. They teach us to focus on intention, behavior and communication.” This is exactly what the team from Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital experienced on that cold November day. President and CEO, Gerard van Grinsven explains that his expectation of the program was to refresh and re-emphasize the values and principles that the team adheres to: trust, respect, dignity, inclusion, empowerment and mutual support. “This is what we know best and what we do best,” van Grinsven continues. “We had an extraordinary start with the opening of Henry Ford West Bloomfield, and recognized that this was an essential opportunity to regroup as a leadership team to face future challenges. This was the time to focus on continued growth as the team of executive leaders, and to enhance the talents of each individual member of the team all to support our vision.” Through various experiences, the horses helped the participants make necessary transitions into new mind-sets such as less-equals-more, slow-equals-fast, and small-equals-big. This led to the ability for them to “Pause – Reflect – and Choose” in order to bring the body and mind into an optimal state that can help them determine their best performance on the job. “The team’s morning experiments, and reflection upon their experience, enabled everyone to accomplish, in the afternoon, challenging horse-partnered goals which required

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innovation, influential leadership and team cohesiveness,” describes Pitts about the executives from Henry Ford. “The exhilaration of lessons learned and relationships deepened was phenomenal. The learning experience was described by the HFWB team as ‘successful beyond expectation!’” she shares. Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital is well known for its leadership and innovation for good reason. Their wellness care programs offer patients therapies such as massage, acupuncture, yoga, nutrition counseling, health coaching and fitness programs in conjunction with traditional medicine. They even have a 2 year old black lab, Henry the Therapy Dog, on staff as an official employee of the Volunteer Services/Greeter Department. Therefore, the executive team’s participation in the HorsePlay program is simply another example of what makes this hospital unique. “This leadership workshop clearly exceeded our expectations – beyond the boundaries of our imagination!” describes van Grinsven. “This was more than a unique setting, with horses in a pasture. The herd actually taught us leadership influence and team cohe-

sion principles. The result for the HFWB team was honest, transparent, meaningful discussions based on our horselearning, which shows how strong this leadership team really is. We have the exceptional talents and re-energized motivation to go ‘back to the barn’ and continue to drive excellence in everything we do. Our learning with the horses was exhilarating, powerful and unique. We discovered different ways to develop and expand our ‘high performance’ capacity and cohesiveness, and our learning from the workshop continues to support this team. We clarified and revitalized key goals to be achieved at every level, to ensure that we will continue to deliver to patients and the community health and healing beyond the boundaries of imagination.” For more information on the PittsAltrich Associates HorsePlay program, visit PittsAldrichAssociates.com. For more information about Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital visit HenryFordWestBloomfield.com. Leah Juarez is the President of Equesse, and produces the Equesse Channel for women who love horses. Leah has developed a long list of projects designed to help people enrich their lives through a passion for horses. Leah's personal mission is to make a positive difference in the world through a love of horses.

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Heartfelt Perspective from Actress and Activist Daryl Hannah by S. Alison Chabonais

est known for her roles in such popular films as Splash, Blade Runner and Kill Bill, actress Daryl Hannah is now busy shedding light on environmental issues and working hard to help improve the way people treat our planet. “It’s just common sense to care about the environment,” she says. “I’ve always understood and valued the interdependence of all life, the idea that whatever we do to the web of life, we do to ourselves.” Dwelling in a small community in the Rocky Mountains, Daryl attends to her ethical-lifestyle website and serves as a positive role model for living a simple, natural and healthy life.

How did you go about designing and building an ecologically sustainable home? My home is a small, recycled barn that was about to be torn down to build a new post office. I salvaged the old barn and carefully had it relocated and

East Michigan Pet Edition

bermed into the side of a hill, which faces southwest for optimal passive solar exposure. The sun passes high in the summer for shade and low across the sky in winter to warm the house. The south wall of the house is like a greenhouse, where spring water flows through and provides humidity in the dry, high-altitude air. We used stones gathered from the site for the fireplaces, bathroom and stairs. I’ve also used a number of moss-covered stones in a “living” couch. I grow food in a garden that is wildly productive when cared for.

“Off the grid” is a new term for some people. How do you define it?

Off the grid literally means that an individual creates their own power and has access to rain, well, spring or ground water. I believe in being as self-sufficient as possible. Both passive and active solar energy provides my power and I’m very lucky to have a productive spring for

water.

What have been the most rewarding, as well as the most challenging, aspects of achieving your current Earth-friendly lifestyle? More and more these days, I admire and crave simplification. While filming the video blog for my website, dhLoveLife.com, I have found it incredibly interesting to learn how many gifts traditional knowledge holds and to discover amazing new innovations. The more I learn, the more I try to adapt to and adopt a simpler lifestyle.

Why do you choose to drive a biodiesel car? I like opting out of the petroleum economy as much as possible, and I love that I can drive on non-toxic waste. Biofuels can be an important part of the solution to the energy crisis we face, but even biofuels can be produced destructively. I co-founded the U.S. Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance to help people differentiate sustainable biodiesel from other, “bad news,” biofuels. In addition, I now own the TransAm car featured in the Kill Bill movie series. The car has been converted to run on 100 percent alcohol fuel, which can also be made from waste.

Which other issues are important to you? In these times of environmental and economic crises, there are many things

that call for our attention: I’m very concerned that global population has grown from about 3 billion people when I was born to nearly 7 billion now; we are also witnessing mass extinction of species worldwide; there are more enslaved human beings today than at any other time in human history. It can be overwhelming, but I try to do what I can and when I can, whenever I’m moved.

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Who typically visits your website, and how do others use it to make their lives better? I started dhLoveLife.com when I decided it was time to try to live by my beliefs—it’s an ongoing process. The site curates information on truly sustainable solutions, based on my discovery that reliable information and resources for efficient and functional goods and services were not readily available. There was a bit of trial and error in my own learning process, so I wanted to share what has worked for me. With today’s glut of green marketing, we may have lots of “green” options available, but now there’s a lot of greenwashing and the whole arena can be challenging to understand. People from all walks of life seem to be interested in commonsense solutions. So, whenever I learn something fascinating and helpful and catch myself saying, “Wow, I wish someone had told me that before,” I like to share it with others. S. Alison Chabonais is an editor for Natural Awakenings.

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Winter • 2012

Saying Goodbye to Pets Memorials Help Ease Grief by Sandra Murphy

fter Penny Mitchell lost her Birman cat, Patrick, to cancer, she cried at work. “Do you want me to bring you another cat? My grandmother has a barn full,” said a co-worker. When another cat, Quickie, passed away, she heard, “You had him 17 years; what more do you want?” Mitchell wanted more time with her cats, but more than that, she wanted understanding and respect for her feelings of loss and grief—something a funeral provides. Dog and cat people can be wary about sharing their feelings over the death of an animal and, as Mitchell discovered, subjected to insensitive remarks. The American Pet Products Association estimates that 63 percent of American households include animal companions. Coleen Ellis, owner of Two Hearts Pet Loss Center (TwoHeartsPetLossCenter.com), observes that when the inevitable happens, “People in the other 37 percent can’t relate or empathize; they just don’t get it.” Ellis opened the first standalone pet funeral home in 2004. She explains, “A funeral brings closure, gives permission to grieve and offers an opportunity to remember a life well-lived. Why not do the same for your dog or cat as you would for any other family member?”

Compassionate Services Funeral homes are beginning to understand that animals are part of the family. Separate rooms may be set aside for memorial services or full funerals, including viewing. The death

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of your special animal companion is stressful; dealing with professionals can ease the pain and help achieve the kind of service and memory you want. “Grief is what we feel on the inside; mourning is grief shown. A cemetery marker often tells only the name, date of birth or when the pet joined the family and date of death,” Ellis says. “A funeral is for talking about the life lived between those dates.” So, what’s the best way to invite friends and family to a funeral for a dog or cat without feeling awkward? Try, “This has been a hard time for me. It would be a big help if you would be with me when I say goodbye. Remind me of some of the stories I told you about Sparky.” Plan all details beforehand to eliminate the pressure to make on-the-spot decisions during such an emotional time.

Burial or Cremation If burial is your choice, check local ordinances; some communities forbid backyard burials for health reasons. Also keep in mind that you may eventually relocate. A pet cemetery is one option, and some allow humans to be buried there, too. As a rule, human cemeteries are not as flexible—for example, some states say no to animals, while others require separate sections for animals and humans.

Plan all details beforehand to eliminate the pressure to make on-the-spot decisions during such an emotional time. You can select a standard casket that will protect the body for the long term, or go green with a biodegradable version, made from recycled paper products, cardboard, wicker or sea grass. Elizabeth Fournier, owner of Cornerstone Funeral Services & Cremation (CornerstoneFuneral.com), advises, “A green burial avoids the use of formaldehyde-based embalming and concrete vaults. It’s the way funerals used to be.” With cremation, the decision is between private (your animal only, with ashes returned to you) or communal (more than one animal, no ashes returned). Fournier adds, “I have placed urns with a dog’s or cat’s ashes in caskets of their [human] loved one. The person making the funeral arrangements for the deceased will sheepishly ask if I can do this. They’re always so surprised that it’s quite common.”

Viewing or Memorial Service If an animal has been euthanized at the vet’s office or died in an accident, children may not understand the loss. A viewing, after the animal has been bathed and groomed, may help both youngsters and other family pets understand why the missing animal is no longer around.

Additional Choices “At the funeral for a Pomeranian named Miss Thing, she was in a white knit dress and looked like she was asleep,” recalls Fournier. “I also helped organize a tribute for a cat named Brutus. It included readings from the owner’s journal and all the grandchildren sang What’s New, Pussycat?” Children can

choose photos, favorite toys or treats for a tribute table. A memorial service can also accompany a cremation.

Formal or Relaxed Setting Full honors were given to Bo—a cross-trained narcotics/patrol dog with the Indianapolis Police Department, killed in the line of duty—including an honor guard, floral arrangements and a eulogy by K-9 Commander Lt. Benny Diggs. The local chief of police and sheriff spoke of Bo’s responsibilities and contributions to the community. Stories of Bo’s family life with Scott Johnson, his K-9 handler, rounded out the ceremony. “It wasn’t just the handlers that came—about 100 officers and 50 people from the community also attended,” reports Diggs. “While losing a K-9 [team member] is not the same as losing a human officer, it still has an impact on the whole department. We’ve spent time training, living with and counting on these dogs. They deserve a service.” A golden retriever named Mike had a more casual sendoff. A pet portrait and family photos set next to his urn and a bowl of his favorite treats inspired friends and family to share their favorite Mike stories.

Remembrances and Keepsakes A plaster cast of a pet’s paw print or a clipping of fur for a scrapbook or locket can also keep memories close. Have a guest book for those that come to the service to sign, and also take photos of the tribute table. Hosting a funeral or memorial service for a pet may not be for everyone, but they are becoming increasingly available for those who choose to say goodbye to a beloved companion animal, surrounded by friends and family. They are an outward sign of respect; both for your feelings and the life your four-legged friend lived. Who doesn’t deserve that? Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer at StLouisFreelance Writer@mindspring.com.

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It’s vital to note that because most states classify acupuncture as a surgical procedure, it can only be legally practiced by a licensed veterinarian certified in acupuncture. These same states often similarly restrict the practice of acupressure (applying pressure to acupuncture points, instead of placing needles, to move energy around in the body). This is important to understand, because if a pet owner engages an unlicensed, noncertified practitioner, he or she will not be able to file a complaint with the state veterinary medical board if a mistake is made that harms the animal.

When to Consider Acupuncture Veterinary acupuncture is used to treat conditions ranging from muscle

ANIMAL ACUPUNCTURE TCM Is Not Just for Humans Anymore by Dr. Jenny Taylor

eterinarians that practice a holistic approach appreciate that traditional Western schooling equips them to use antibiotics and other drugs to lessen troubling symptoms, but they also ask: “Do drugs vanquish the root of the problem? Why do so many patients return with new symptoms that suggest the need for more drugs? Are permanent health and healing possible?”

Traditional Eastern Practices While Western medicine has traditionally focused on fixing the parts of the animal that are not functioning normally, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on systematically restoring what is out of balance and affecting the quality of an animal’s life as a whole. This ancient method of treating illness uses acupuncture alongside other modalities such as acupressure, massage, nutrition, herbs, exercise and meditation. TCM practitioners believe that health can be defined as a state of harmony; if the body moves out of harmony with itself and the external environment, dis-ease and energy stagnation occur. TCM aims to unblock

this stagnation and return the body to harmony and health. Although acupuncture has been used to treat humans for some 5,000 years, the first recorded application to an animal was about 3,500 years ago, when an elephant was treated for stomach bloat. Treatment of farm animals in rural China and Korea soon followed, but written evidence of its use on household pets has been documented only from the 20th century. From the Latin acus, meaning “needle,” and pungere, meaning “to pierce,” practitioners place tiny, thin, sterile needles under the skin at precise points, with the intention of moving chi (pronounced CHEE) around the body to prevent or treat disease. In 1974, The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society was founded to help educate and direct veterinarians in integrating TCM and acupuncture into their practices. The society has since become the premier governing and licensing body for veterinary acupuncturists, with more than 500 licensed practitioners in the United States alone.

East Michigan Pet Edition

injuries and paralysis to arthritis and neurologic, gastrointestinal and reproductive disorders. It is also frequently used as a maintenance procedure for healthy, athletic animals that participate in performance competitions. Many thoroughbred racehorses, for example, receive regular treatments. Veterinary acupuncturists develop and implement treatment plans based upon each animal’s needs, including the recommended frequency of treatment, plus the anatomical points that must be stimulated for successful outcomes. Dealing with acute problems usually involves more frequent treatments in initial stages that then taper off within a few weeks. While any illness or health problem can be treated using acupuncture alone, if a pet experiences a chronic, recurring health issue, it will likely benefit from a TCM program that also includes complementary, customized, nutritional and behavioral modifications. Veterinary acupuncturists often recommend herbs and nutritional supplements to help improve overall health. The focus is always on achieving long-term balance and harmony and preventing future illness, while treating current ailments. Depending on their specialized

HELPFUL RESOURCES Books

National Organizations

Acu-Cat, A Guide to Feline Acupressure by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture aava.org

The Well-Connected Dog, A Guide to Canine Acupressure by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

American Holistic Veterinary Medicine ahvma.org

Four Paws Five Directions: A Guide to Chinese Medicine for Cats and Dogs by Dr. Cheryl Schwartz, veterinarian

training, vets may introduce homotoxicology (combining homeopathy and acupuncture that injects sterile, homeopathic liquids into acupuncture points). Some vets surgically insert gold bead implants into acupuncture points to provide continuous stimulation of the needed healing energy force; this works well for dogs with congenital defects like hip dysplasia, that often require a lifetime of acupuncture treatments.

Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine by Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold, licensed acupuncturists

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pettherapy Relief For Bone, Joint and Nerve Problems...Without Breaking the Bank Healing Pets with Vibrational Medicine By Dr. John M. Simon

here are many ways to heal physical injury and disease in both humans and animals. Conventional western medicine uses primarily drugs. Herbal medicine uses natural substances derived from parts of plants, and nutritionists uses â&#x20AC;&#x153;mega-nutrient therapyâ&#x20AC;? including high doses of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and probiotics. However, there is another form of healing called Bio-Resonance Therapy that uses vibrational energy rather than drugs and nutrients to repair diseased or damaged tissue. Different forms of bio-resonance therapy include pulsed magnetic therapy, soft laser therapy, color therapy, infrasonic therapy, electro-crystal therapy

and scenery therapy. Each of these modalities provides a different form of vibration energy which helps heal diseased tissues and organs by restoring them to a healthy vibrational state. When diseased cells are treated with an external resonance frequency source, the molecules in the cell wall begin to vibrate at the healthier frequency. You might relate bio-resonance therapy to a vibrating tuning fork which when brought near another tuning fork will cause that previously "quiet" fork to begin vibrating at the same frequency. Once the cell wall is vibrating at a healthier frequency it can resume its battery-like character, which allows the cell to maintain a normal voltage. This voltage provides energy that can be utilized to help cellular functions such as: nutrient and oxygen utilization, energy production and the excretion of toxic waste. Bio-resonance therapy recharges damaged cells and helps them to maintain their charge until the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own electrical energy flow enters the damaged tissues and completes the job of healing. I use bio-resonance therapy every day in my veterinary practice to treat ani-

East Michigan Pet Edition

mals with lameness, arthritis, tendonitis, ligamentitis, cartilage degeneration, ruptured disks and inflammatory organ disease. It is used either alone or in combination with herbal medicine, drugs and homotoxicology and even to stimulate acupuncture points. All the different forms of bio-rezone therapy are safe, painless, and easy to use and have no side effects. The owner of a dog, for example, that is in pain and paralyzed as a result of a ruptured disk is usually referred to veterinary neurologists who can perform an MRI to determine which disk is ruptured. The neurologist will then recommend decompression surgery to take the pressure off the spinal cord. Unfortunately, the combined cost of the MRI and the surgery is often over six thousand dollars and success is not guaranteed. On the other hand, using a combination of electro-acupuncture and bioresonance therapy will often prove very successful at getting the animal to walk again, and for a significantly lower cost. Infrasonic therapy, laser therapy, and pulsed magnetic therapy are different

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forms of bio-resonance therapy that can be used with or without acupuncture to reduce inflammation, restore voltage to the damaged spinal cord cells and return function to the dog or cat’s paralyzed limbs. Successful treatment of painful pets with bio-resonance therapy is not a one-time treatment. A series of treatments at weekly intervals is necessary and often no improvement is noticed until the 3rd application. Six weekly 30-minute treatments is commonplace. However, additional treatments may be recommended if the animal is much improved but not completely healed. So if you or a friend have a pet who is lame, paralyzed or suffering in severe pain from a bone, joint or nerve problem, please do not give up on this animal just because you can’t afford expensive diagnostics and surgery. Remember that bioresonance therapy, with or without acupuncture, can often produce surprisingly good results without breaking the bank. Dr. John M. Simon is the owner of the Woodside Animal Clinic in Royal Oak MI, where for over 30 years he has been healing dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and rodents with both alternative and traditional medicine. He is the author of 4 pet care booklets, a past president of the Oakland County Veterinary Association and the first veterinarian in Michigan to perform “In Clinic Pet Adult Stem Cell Therapy.” See ad page this page.

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A section dedicated to fostering adoptions through local shelters and rescues. Each spot is sponsored by a local business or individual showing support for pets needing a forever home. To become a sponsor, visit NAHealthyPet.com and click on "Adoption Spotlights" or call 248-628-0125.

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