Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine Pet 2014

wellness

Pets

Okanagan Health & OHW Magazine

MAGAZINE

Keep Fit For Canines P. 18

The Calming Effects of a Fish Tank

Heat Stroke Dangers P. 25

P. 22

Keeping Kitty in Purrfect Health P. 23

Special Issue

Complimentary

PETS

For the Love of Animals P. 29

Summer Nights! And Parasites!

P. 8

Pauline’s Pet Grooming Award Winning I.P.G. Certified Groomers

Walk Ins Welcome

We Also Groom Cats

We click with Pets and Their People

We also offer professional pet portraits - in studio or on location for as little as $50.00

Find us on Facebook

Pauline’s Pet Grooming & Pet Photography $10.00 Off Dog or Cat grooming Spa Package Plus Free Teeth Brushing Each package includes ear cleaning and plucking, nail trimming, anal gland check, and a specialized hydrotherapy bath followed by a fluff dry. You choose a pet trim tailored to suit your dog’s lifestyle. Lion trims are among the most popular style for cats and can be customized to make your kitty the coolest cat in town. All of this PLUS a free teeth brushing!

Call for an appointment

250-493-1040

Or drop in to

108-1505 Main St. Penticton, BC

contents

Pets Volume 1 Issue 1

Superfoods for Dogs Pg. 13

NATURAL HEALTH 8 Summer Nights! And Parasites!

A holistic approach to dealing with those pesky critters.

10 A Look at Animal Chiropractic Making a case for another treatment option.

12 Healing with Energy Quantum-Touch®: A simple and effective way to run energy with amazing results.

NUTRITION 13 Superfoods for Dogs Whole foods are as good for our fourlegged family members as they are for the rest of us.

15 From Hay to Grass – Feed with Caution Avoid the pitfalls that can arise from too much sugar-high grass.

16 To Feed or Not to Feed It’s quite simple: don’t treat your dog like a garbage can.

FITNESS

WELLNESS 20 Learning from Horses at the Equine Connection Powerful creatures, powerful teachers.

22 The Calming Effects of a Fish Tank Tips on maintaining a healthy aquarium.

23 Keeping Kitty in Purrfect Health How to recognize and treat feline lower urinary tract disease.

18 Keep Fit for Canines Challenge your pooch mentally and physically and you’ll both be happier.

25 Heatstroke Dangers and Our Pets Must-read information around this hot topic.

19 A Walk in the Park A guide to the many dog parks in our communities.

27 Leaving on a Jet Plane Taking your pet along for the ride?

Check out these tips before you go.

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NON-PROFIT GROUPS 28 Making a Difference How one business partners with nonprofits to put animals in a healthy spot.

29 For the Love of Animals A who’s who of animal welfare groups in the Okanagan and area.

IN EVERY ISSUE: 5

Contributors

7

Your Questions Answered

Do you have an idea for a story?

Are you a health professional who’s interested in contributing to OHW Magazine?

If so contact us at info@ohwmagazine.com

Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 3

OHW Magazine

Okanagan’s Own Health & Wellness Magazine

From the OHW Team

PUBLISHER LMR PUBLISHING Leanne Christie info@ohwmagazine.com EDITOR Dianne Fowlie editor@ohwmagazine.com

Leanne Christie Owner/Publisher

ADVERTISING SALES Melissa Spooner 250.550.0521 mel@ohwmagazine.com Megan Vadnais 250.309.1736 megan@ohwmagazine.com

Dianne Fowlie Editor

Leanne Christie 250.503.7472 info@ohwmagazine.com Glenn Bond 250.309.2611 glenn@ohwmagazine.com OHW Magazine published four times a year.

All rights reserved. No part of OHW Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The views expressed in OHW Magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Although all reasonable attempts are made to ensure accuracy, the publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions anywhere in the publication or on the website. OHW Magazine reserves the rights to ads produced for advertisers.

Publication Agreement #42490022 Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine is owned and operated by LMR Publishing.

Return undeliverable to LMR Publishing, 5816 Tern Place, Vernon, BC V1H 1R2.

Phone: 250.503.7472 Email: info@ohwmagazine.com Website: www.ohwmagazine.com Subscription: For your free copy send your mailing address to info@ ohwmagazine.com or visit the website at www.ohwmagazine.com Printed by: Print Advantage, Richmond, BC

Melissa Spooner Advertising Sales

Megan Vadnais Distribution Advertising Sales

Glenn Bond Advertising Sales

W

elcome to our inaugural Okanagan Health & Wellness Pets special issue!

If you’ve picked up this magazine, chances are that, like us, you couldn’t imagine a world without non-human companions. Whatever their size, shape, or colour, most animals have the ability to somehow work their way into even the most hardened of hearts. And if you’re not sure you agree with that statement, take a peek at the photos throughout this issue and you’ll see what we mean!

As you peruse the Contents page, you’ll see that we’ve followed our usual structure of Natural Health, Nutrition, Fitness, and Wellness, along with our regularly featured Q&A. Once again, local experts have generously shared their knowledge, and the result is a wide range of entertaining, thought-provoking, and timely topics. Some are applicable to only one specific type of pet, while others apply to animals generally (and sometimes humans too).

A key feature in this issue is the important work carried out every day by compassionate, committed volunteers.

We are referring, of course, to the many not-for-profit animal welfare groups located in the Okanagan and surrounding area. For the most part, these organizations operate on limited budgets, funded only through donations and fundraising events. Their efforts help provide shelter, food, and medical aid, including spaying and neutering to reduce pet overpopulation. Some, such as the BC SPCA, will be familiar to readers, whereas others are relatively little known. All of these groups deserve kudos and practical support for their commitment to make a difference. Their dedicated volunteers are truly doing what they do for the love of animals. See pages 28 –30 for more details.

With this issue we welcome yet another addition to our OHW Magazine team! Say hello to Megan Vadnais, who is in charge of distribution and will also be working in advertising sales. (Some of you may have already had the pleasure of meeting Megan as she has taken up her new role with enthusiasm.) As always, we ask that you please remember to support our advertisers as well as our contributors, all of whom help make this magazine possible.

Enjoy the read, and be sure to contact us with your comments, questions, and suggestions!

Stay Connected with OHW Magazine

Cover: A Chocolate Lab enjoys getting out for a run.

4 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

ohwmagazine.com www.ohwmagazine.com

Contributors Lisa Badach and Andrew Willmott co-own AJ’s Pets & Things in Vernon and Armstrong. Andrew started the Vernon store in August 1989. His love of aquarium fish drove his desire to excel at learning about animal husbandry of all types of animals. Lisa met Andrew in 2000 and invested to become equal partner. Since then, Lisa and Andrew have expanded their business to two stores with nine employees.

Andrew is passionate about saltwater reef aquariums as well as designing and installing custom aquariums, and with Lisa’s organization and training skills, the two have become the benchmark of knowledgeable staff for their customers. The combination of expertise and equipment enables their customers to succeed at maintaining previously challenging aquariums. For more information, visit www.ajspets.com.

Moira Drosdovech, DVM, graduated from veterinary college in 1987, worked in Vancouver and then in 1990 moved to Kelowna, where she purchased a vet practice. In 1997, her practice philosophy took a holistic turn. She sold the Rutland Pet Hospital in 1998 and took a professional course in Veterinary Homeopathy. In 2000, Dr. Drosdovech started Pawsitive Veterinary Care, a practice focused on holistic care, which she is passionate about. For more information on her holistic approach, visit www.pawsitivevetcare.com.

Elizabeth Easterling, DC, practises at Creative Healing Chiropractic in Kelowna. She graduated from the AngloEuropean College of Chiropractic in Bournemouth, England, in 1989 and in 1994 completed an 18-month post-graduate course in Veterinary Chiropractic from the McTimmoney College of Chiropractic in Oxford, England. Dr. Easterling’s specialty and interest include family wellness, treating all ages from babies to the wisest and most senior of our Okanagan residents. She incorporates many different techniques in order to customize her care to suit every individual need. In addition to helping her two-legged patients, Dr. Easterling has treated thousands of animals over the last 17 years with remarkable results. For more information, visit www.creativehealing.ca.

Wendy Elrick is the owner of The Equine Connection Coaching Services Ltd. The Equine Connection offers various equineassisted learning opportunities. Outside with nature, exercises with the horses allow for learning not only at an intellectual level, but also at a body level. Wendy is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with a Master’s degree in Human Services. She has been working as a counsellor for 20 years. Her experience includes working with children and adults, as well as with families and groups. In addition to offering counselling, The Equine Connection offers self-development workshops. These services can all be provided with horses, through equine-assisted learning and therapy exercises.

Shelly Korobanik, certified Personal Trainer and Professional Dog Trainer, is the owner of Pooch Partners®, a business that combines her passion for fitness and love of dogs to promote outdoor activities for people with their pooch. In addition to fitness classes, learn-to-run programs, cani-cross, skijoring, weight pulling, agility, and obedience training, Pooch Partners® hosts an annual Doggie Duathlon, Trail Hiking series, and Raise the Woof comedy show to raise funds for local animal charities. For more details visit www.poochpartners.ca or email bark@poochpartners.ca.

Andrea Lee-Lauridsen owns Healthy Spot Pet Nutrition & Supply with her husband, John. She has had a personal interest in pet nutrition for over fifteen years and has worked and volunteered for many animal welfare groups. She is currently on the Board of Directors for The Road Home Rescue & Safekeeping Society. For pet health solutions visit Healthy Spot at 3115 48th Avenue in Vernon or online at www. healthyspot.ca.

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Cathy Lehtonen was born in Toronto and moved to BC in 2001. She is an elementary teacher with Central Okanagan School District 23, and has a Master’s degree in Education.

Cathy owns Keep Your Dog Safe Safety Education and has been a DOGSAFE® Authorized Instructor since 2011. She has lived with Midge, her 6½-yearold pug, and Randall, her 11½ year-old-lab, since they were 8 weeks of age. You can reach Cathy at keepyourdogsafe@gmail. com. To find a DOGSAFE® Canine First Aid course in your area, visit www.dogsafe.ca.

Mica Lemiski is a recent graduate of an honours program in creative writing and English at Western University. An avid reader, apple eater, and musician, Mica is excited to be back in the Okanagan this summer.

Mica’s work, both fiction and nonfiction, has appeared in Canadian publications such as this magazine and Occasus literary journal.

Mica hopes her future will hold an MFA in creative writing, a published novel, a Great Dane, and a grand piano. You can view more of Mica’s work online at http://micalemiski. wix.com/micawrites.

Britt Mills, DVM, graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1989. She has also completed the Veterinary Acupuncture Course, the Canadian Animal Chiropractic Certification Program, as well as other programs in craniosacraltherapy, applied kinesiology, prolotherapy and TuiNa (a form of physiotherapy). Dr. Mills has the unique ability to combine the best of traditional and alternative medicine to provide the highest level of care possible for her patients. She can be reached at Mills Veterinary Services in Armstrong, at 250546-8860 or online at www.millsvet.com.

Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 5

Contributors Carlie Petrisor, DVM, is a 2011 graduate of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon. After moving to the Okanagan with her husband, Travis, in the summer of 2011, she started her position at Anderson Veterinary Clinic in Penticton.

She currently is a full-time associate and has a special interest in dentistry and ultrasound. When she is not working, Carlie loves to snowboard, travel, and spend time on the water enjoying the beautiful Okanagan summers. Visit www.andersonvet.ca for more information.

Brigitte Thom, a certified QuantumTouch®practitioner/instructor, is passionate about helping her clients attain optimal health. Quantum-Touch® is the most simple and effective way to run energy with amazing results for humans and animals. Brigitte provides relief from headaches, sciatic, back, and general pain, increased relaxation, reduced need of pain medication, reduced anxiety and stress, enhancement of spiritual development, and more. Her studio is right in the heart of Vernon on 30th Avenue, above the Towne Theatre. Free consultations are available. To make an appointment, call or text 250-503-6493 or email b_thom@telus.net.

Brigitte also offers Quantum-Touch® courses – watch for upcoming courses posted at www.facebook.com/QuantumHealingStudio.

Marijke van de Water, BSc, DHMS, is an Equine Health & Nutrition Specialist, Homeopathic Practitioner, Medical Intuitive & Healer who has a natural health practice for horses, people, dogs and cats. She is the author of the best-selling “Healing Horses: Their Way” and “Healing People: The Marijke Method.” She hosts her own weekly radio talk show (www.toginet.com) and is the CEO and founder of Riva’s Remedies, a natural health product line for horses, dogs, and cats. To learn more, visit www.rivasremedies.com.

Local experts answer our readers’ questions...

Q

I hear so many stories about missing pets that are never reunited with their owners. What can I do to maximize the chances of getting my cat or dog back if they wander away?

T

here are several ways to help pets find their way home should they go missing. First and foremost, be sure to have a collar and tag on your pet with your current contact information. Dogs and cats are frequently picked up close to home, and a collar with your phone number could be the fastest way to get your pet home!

Should your animal lose the collar, it is best to have a back-up plan.

That plan comes in the form of a tattoo or microchip, or both. Each form of identification has its advantages and disadvantages.

In BC, tattoos are placed in the pet’s right ear, and consist of three letters and three numbers. The letters represent the clinic that applied the tattoo and the year in which it was done, and the numbers are unique for that animal at that clinic, for that year. The disadvantages of tattoos are that they require anesthetic, they can at times be difficult to read, and the owner’s information is only available from that clinic and generally not available outside of business hours. Should you lose your pet outside of BC, it may not be traceable back to your veterinarian, as other provinces and states would not have the clinic codes. The cost of a tattoo is usually $15 to $50, depending on the clinic and whether the procedure is done in conjunction with spaying or neutering.

If you are planning to travel with your pet, having a microchip implanted may be your best option. A lost pet brought to any clinic or shelter in North America is scanned to detect the presence of a microchip. If one is found, it’s a simple matter of contacting the microchip company, which has your information available 24 hours a day, seven days a week! Another great advantage of microchipping is that your animal does not need sedation, so your veterinarian can implant the chip during a regular visit. The cost of microchipping is around $75.

Hopefully your pets will never go missing, but if it does happen, it is reassuring knowing that you have done all you can to help them find their way back home. n Carey Keith, DVM, is co-owner with Trinity Smith, DVM, of Central Animal Hospital in Vernon, BC (www.centralanimalhospital.ca). Dr. Keith completed her Bachelor of Science degree from UBC and earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University. Special areas of interest to Dr. Keith include oncology, soft-tissue surgery and internal medicine.

For appointments and emergency service, call 250-549-0402.

6 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

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Your Questions Answered

Q

What are the benefits of grooming your cat?

Is it important to groom shorthaired cats as well as longhaired?

Yes, it is. Longhaired cats can tangle easily and mat, so regular grooming is essential, but it is important to brush shorthaired cats as well. Frequent brushing will cut down on the amount of shed ingested through self-grooming.

Brushing also helps distribute the natural oils that maintain the health of the skin and coat.

As a groomer, how do you deal with difficult cats?

It takes two and sometimes three people to groom a cat safely: one or more to hold while one does the grooming. For this reason, the cost is often more than for getting your dog groomed. Nine times out of ten we are able to complete the groom on a difficult cat. The odd time, we recommend a mild sedative from your veterinarian to be given 45 minutes to an hour before your cat’s groom. The sedative helps to calm and reassure the cat, enabling us to work quickly and safely.

How often should I groom my cat?

Brushing your cat two to three times a week should suffice. For cats that are a challenge for the owner to groom at home, we recommend seeing your groomer once a month for nail trim and a quick brush-out and every six to eight weeks for a haircut.

Can I just use baby shampoo for my cat?

When bathing your cat it is very important to use shampoo made especially for cats. Human pH balance is different from that of cats or dogs, and human shampoo can strip the natural oils. The correct grooming tools are also important. I’ve tried www.ohwmagazine.com

every kind of brush and comb available and have found that a stainless steel comb works best on longhaired cats. It gets right to the skin and finds all the tangles before they have a chance to turn to mats and need to be shaved out.

Why does my cat seem to get matted every spring?

Cats have two major sheds: one in spring and one in summer. If the hair is not combed through and breathing properly, shed can get trapped against the skin and continue to get backed up.

Your cat can become matted within a two-week period and regular combing is very important during these times. If the coat gets beyond your control, the best course is to shave off the mats.

Sores can fester underneath matting, as well as provide a great hiding place for fleas. Cats’ skin is very thin and sensitive, and cats will often start ripping out the mats because they are so uncomfortable. A lion cut is a common hairstyle for cats and they will thank you for how much better they feel getting all those mats off.

Do you have any suggestions for a mild allergy to cats?

Most cat allergies are caused by the cat’s skin dander so I normally recommend daily brushing to help

loosen the dander, followed by a wipe with a damp cloth or unscented baby wipes. Having your cat’s hair clipped short can also help lessen your allergies.

What are the benefits of having my cat professionally groomed?

Regular grooming reduces shed and eliminates hairballs. It helps promote a cleaner cat and environment, reducing allergy problems. We also closely examine your cat’s skin and ears during grooming and are able to refer you to a veterinarian if we spot any health concern. The main benefit is a happier and healthier cat, and best of all, when you leave this challenging task to us, you’re happier too! n Pauline Paquet has been working with dogs for almost 30 years. Her first job was cleaning kennels at a boarding facility.

From there she moved on to protection training and obedience training, offering group classes and behaviour modification assistance. Pauline has shown and bred various breeds of both dogs and cats. She fell in love with grooming about 15 years ago and has been grooming animals every day since. She has competed in grooming competitions across Canada, with multiple wins including Best All-Around Groomer. In her spare time Pauline enjoys photographing pets and playing with her French bulldogs. To contact her, stop by Pauline’s Pet Grooming, #108-1505 Main Street, Penticton, or call 250-493-1040.

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Natural Health

Summer Nights! And Parasites!

Feeling bugged by the threat of uninvited guests? Read on for a holistic approach to prevention and treatment.

By Moira Drosdovech, DVM

A

fter this winter, I am so looking forward to summer. I just love summer! However, there is one thing I dislike about the warm season, and that is bugs. I never have acquired a liking to any kind of bug, let alone the ones that draw blood! (I won’t kill a spider, though, as they help reduce the hated bug population.) I would wager a bet that animals aren’t keen on insects either, unless they eat them, like an anteater, for example.

For the most part, dogs and cats don’t eat bugs for nutrition. What more

often happens is that bugs bite the animals. In the Okanagan, the ones we need to pay attention to include ticks, lice, and mosquitos, but it would appear that fleas may also be finding their way here in increasing numbers.

Let’s start with ticks. Who doesn’t think ticks are gross? Finding one on your dog is somewhat less than thrilling. The most likely dogs to pick them up are the ones going for hikes in the surrounding hillsides where there are tall grasses and low bushes.

Ticks will cling onto the grasses for

8 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

hours waiting for passersby – then BAM! They invade! Once on the dog (or you), they tend to climb toward the head and shoulder region. Tick season is in full swing until June sometime, so take precautions.

A natural product like OregaPet Bed and Body Spray prior to the hike will repel the ticks once they have jumped on. Also, I recommend spending a few minutes on returning to look for the little hitchhikers before they attach.

Once they’re attached, you can try and remove them yourself, being www.ohwmagazine.com

Natural Health significant caseload of heartworminfested dogs, the support for using these products is that they also double as effective intestinal deworming agents. I find such use unjustified in most dogs, given that the incidence of worms in dogs past puppyhood is rare, and I prefer to check a stool sample first and deworm accordingly. Your own veterinarian may have a different approach. If you plan to travel back WOOD TICK east during the hotter months, you may want to give a dose of heartworm careful not to leave the head of the tick around chest and shoulders is a sign prevention on your return. or let the blood of the tick touch you you need to look for lice!

Finally, a brief mention of mites. Ear in case of Lyme disease transmission Fleas are just plain annoying and mites are most common in cats, but (inexpensive tick removal instruments hard to get rid of. They live part of their occasionally dogs if they hang with cats exist). Alternatively, you can take life cycle off the host, that have mites. your dog into a veterinary clinic and which means treating Ear mites cause have them do it. Ticks left unattended the environment and an intense itching on a pet can cause tick paralysis, the house. Plus, they of the ears and which reverses itself once the tick is will bite you – I once a lot of blackishremoved, but can be rather alarming! counted 70 flea bites brown substance on my lower legs in the ears. Don’t What other little chompers can we as a child in North mistake a yeast discuss? Lice! Smaller than fleas, and Vancouver! If a dog infection in a dog’s much smaller than ticks, these critters or cat eats a flea, ear for mites. they may end up with Yeast infections the flea tapeworm, are far more so it can’t hurt to common in dogs FLEA monitor the stools for than mites are. An tapeworm segments option to treat ear if your pet has had mites in cats is to fleas. If your dog or cat spends a lot use oregano oil ear drops. Also in the of time chewing around their back end mite category are Demodex mites, and tail, look for fleas! which are a normal inhabitant of the Mosquitos, for the most part, are skin of dogs and sometimes go crazy simply irritating nuisances. I have not if the dog has a depressed immune worried about the heartworm potential system. from our local mosquito population So now you’re armed with some for over 16 years now and therefore valuable knowledge, you’re ready to neither recommend to my clients, nor tackle this season’s pests! n use myself, the heartworm prevention medications. In the absence of a LICE live their entire life cycle on the dog. I have never seen lice on a cat. Dog lice stay on dogs; human lice on humans; and so on. They are transmitted by direct contact or shared items like brushes. We see a few cases of lice mostly in the fall and sometimes the spring. I have found that I need to treat with Revolution or similar product; we also have had some success with natural insecticidal lice products, but not always. Any excessive scratching www.ohwmagazine.com

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Natural Health

A Look at Animal Chiropractic Once thought of only in connection with humans, chiropractic is now available to our four-legged companions.

By Elizabeth Easterling, DC

C

hiropractic is a method of treatment that deals with restoring the important relationship between the spine and the nervous system in order to regain and maintain health.

The nervous system controls every function in the body, and any interference may cause abnormal symptoms or disease. Bones that are jammed up or out of normal position in relation to each other can cause pressure on or irritation of nerves. The result is muscle spasm, swelling, pain, and reduced function of tissues and organs. We refer to this as a vertebral subluxation.

As a pet owner, there’s little worse than seeing your fourlegged friend in pain. You may be surprised to learn that animals can suffer from the same problems that humans do, including but not limited to sprain/strain injuries, arthritis, disc disease, and neck and jaw problems. Doesn’t it make sense, then, that chiropractic adjustments may help animals too?

Although chiropractic treatment of large animals dates back to the early 1900s, many people are unaware of this treatment option for their pets, since animal care has traditionally been the exclusive domain of veterinarians.

Today there are a number of animal chiropractic schools

in Canada, the United States, and Europe, where doctors of both chiropractic and veterinary medicine can become certified in veterinary chiropractic.

Before pursuing animal chiropractic, it is recommended – and in some provinces and states required – that a veterinarian first conduct a checkup to make sure that this type of treatment is right for your pet.

Some causes of subluxations in pets: Accidents, injuries, stress, overweight, after surgery, illness, or in association with arthritis or disc problems.

Symptoms you may find of subluxations in your pets: • Panting • Pacing • Yelping • Unwilling to jump off or do stairs • Arched or roached back • Sensitivity to touch • Changing behavior such as biting • Stiffness or weakness after exercise or lying down

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Natural Health Here’s how three Okanagan pets fared with chiropractic care:

Clyde, a ten-year-old Bull Mastiff, came in when he was three years old with a diagnosis of possibly Wobblers Syndrome or disc disease. He presented with front- and hind-limb paresis and incoordination. He also had a reduced righting reflex and sensation in the hind limbs. His vet had suggested neck surgery (approximately $12,000) or euthanasia as the only answers. We started a subluxation-based adjusting regime. After four weeks of care (ten adjustments) he had improved righting reflex, much less incoordination, and improved hind-end strength.

We continued care at initially weekly, then bi- monthly for a further three months. At four months of care, there were NO visible symptoms. Since then we check Clyde about once or twice per month and now at ten years old, apart from some minor DJD of lumbar spine, he is still going strong.

Duke, a seven-year-old Dachshund, presented with complete hind-end paralysis. The owner was in tears because she had been told that surgery for disc herniation ($10,000 to $12,000) or euthanasia were the only options, and she wanted a second opinion. We started chiropractic adjustments daily for the first week then three times per

LOOKING FOR LOVE?

week for two weeks; two times per week for approximately four weeks, and bi-monthly for a further two months. Within a week, there was some movement of hind limbs; within four weeks he could walk and trot, albeit while still a little weak; and at eight weeks we saw complete resolution of all signs and symptoms. He remains fine two years later.

Roxy, an eight-year-old Shih Tzu, had received chiropractic care because of unwillingness to do stairs in the past and had responded well to care. Unfortunately, Roxy was diagnosed with cancer of the liver, had stopped eating, and had frequent episodes of vomiting. The vet had told her owner that euthanasia would be necessary if she went without eating for longer than a week. Roxy was in for an adjustment when her owner noticed that she had a healthy appetite that night, so we continued to adjust her and each time her appetite would increase for a period of time. She also had fewer episodes of vomiting.

We continue to adjust Roxy a few times a week and she is still experiencing quality of life two months later. n

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Natural Health

Healing with Energy

Optimal flow of life force energy is at the root of good health.

By Brigitte Thom

Q

uantum-Touch® is the most simple and effective way to run energy with amazing results on both people and animals. It is the life force energy that we all have in us. We all have inherited wisdom within ourselves to heal, and I am the facilitator to help you with it.

I am especially interested in working with animals. They become calm and quiet so quickly, often falling asleep and awakening as the session is over. I enjoy working with the owners as well and incorporate the use of crystals. Pets have similar patterns to ours, but they are so much more connected to Mother Earth because their four feet keep them better grounded and in tune to Nature.

If your pet is injured or needs surgery, you might also consider an energy worker who can help your pet on different levels such as the following: • accelerating wound healing • increasing relaxation • releasing pain • reducing swelling • reducing anxiety and stress (remember, dog owners, the energy travels down the leash, and I can help you both!)

If, during surgery, a knowledgeable practitioner were allowed to maintain balance of the energy field during the procedure, healing would be not only more expedient, but often dramatically fast. Some doctors and vets are allowing energy workers to run energy life force during surgery with great results. This is a fabulous development in the marriage of allopathic and alternative medicine! It is a great start and does help to improve the patient’s recovery and lessen the trauma for surgery.

Quantum

Healing Studio Quantum-Touch® it’s the most simple and effective way to run energy with amazing results on both people and animals

Brigitte Thom 2910 30th Ave. Vernon, BC 250.503.6493 b_thom@telus.net

www.facebook.com/QuantumHealingStudio

An intuitive friend who communicates with her horses asked me to come to the ranch to do a session. The horses had asked for energy work and she complied, knowing they needed help to heal to come back into harmony and balance. Horses accept and respond exceptionally well to energy work, which is the movement of life force.

The elderly horse suffered from arthritis but really wanted to release the sadness that he was absorbing from the people around him who were grieving the loss of two horses and pets on the property. The mare was recovering from lameness and although we didn’t know at the time, had Lyme disease, which feels like chronic fatigue for the animal. She also missed her previous pasture mate of 10 years, since the owner had recently bought her and moved them apart.

Both horses stood willingly for the session, free to move away at any time. They guided me to where the blockages were. As the energy started to flow more freely, the horses began to lick, chew, and yawn, all signs of release in equines.

At times, we could see difficult blockages dispersing by their heads bobbing, my friend speaking what she heard from her horses: sadness about leaving friends, physical pain from the life of a horse in training. Emotional aspects for the owner were also coming up to be healed and integrated.

The horses both looked soft in the eyes and the mare was lengthening in her back before our eyes, stretching her head and rolling her eyes with relief. They stayed in the healing energy with us at liberty then walked off to eat grass. We marvelled at their ability to trust us so openly and heal.

In a basic sense, all living things emit energy, and achieving optimal flow of this energy is at the root of good health! I recommend a Quantum-Touch® session for you as well, dear pet owners! The animals need us to be healthy and balanced too! n

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Nutrition

Superfoods for Dogs Quick, easy, and inexpensive fixes for improving your dog’s nutrition.

By Britt Mills, DVM

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any of us over the years have learned the benefits of whole-food nutrition for ourselves and our families, but what about our canine friends? As we pour the uniformly brown preformed kibble into a bowl, we may wonder if it’s providing optimum nutrition.

The answer is, in a word, no. Any heat-treated kibble, no matter how expertly the nutritional profile is designed, lacks the nutrients and antioxidants of whole food. In addition, most kibble is made from by-products of the human food industry and likely won’t have premium ingredients.

However, for many of us, formulating a balanced wholefood diet can be just too expensive or too time-consuming.

Fortunately, you can do a lot to spruce up a regular kibble diet without a huge cash outlay. Here are a few additions that give you the most bang for your buck; they are also a great boost to a home-cooked or raw-food diet.

feed them a lot, consider pureeing them or juicing them.

Feed them plain without any added fat or sauces. Most aboveground veggies are excellent. If you feed cabbage, broccoli or cauliflower, make sure it is cooked because raw cruciferous veggies can affect the thyroid. Avoid onions and limit garlic to half a small clove daily per 20 pounds of bodyweight because they can be toxic to dogs.

It’s not advisable to feed a lot of fruit to dogs because of its high sugar content, but the occasional handful of berries can be excellent. Don’t feed grapes or raisins because these are also toxic. Macadamia nuts and avocados should also be avoided because of toxicity, and spinach and chard 1 4/9/2014 and 1:13:25always PM should bemillsvetCARD2bkV3aOL.pdf fed only occasionally cooked. Feed

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1. Add whole foods. Adding cooked or raw boneless meat or raw chicken necks or backs can be a great help. Reduce the fat as much as possible, remove the skin, and make sure to reduce kibble to compensate for the extra calories, especially if your dog is overweight. Never feed cooked bones to dogs. Try this once or twice a week.

Cooked or raw vegetables are always a great addition, but avoid excessive starchy veggies unless your dog is very active. Dogs don’t digest raw veggies very well so if you M

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Nutrition

Alternate daily between eggs and sardines for easy and nutritous additions to your dog’s diet. extra veggies, especially green ones, every day. If your dog has any inflammatory or autoimmune condition, avoid peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplant.

2. Add sardines. Sardines are an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins D and A. Get the ones packed in water, not oil, and feed one or two per 40 pounds of bodyweight every other day. They are packed with nutrients and quite inexpensive.

3. Add eggs. I alternate sardines with one raw or cooked egg every other day. The protein and fatty acid profile of eggs is excellent for dogs and they are very digestible.

work well. You could try beef, chicken, turkey, venison, and lamb. Add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help leach the minerals from the bones. Adding a big bunch of parsley in the last 15 minutes will give a huge nutrient boost. Let cool, separate the bones from the broth, discard the bones, and skim off the fat.

All dogs will benefit from this broth but especially dogs with digestive troubles, weak or sick dogs, or dogs with pain issues. Make in bulk and give half to one cup per day. If you do feed bone broth regularly, you can skip the expensive joint supplements as well!

5. Add greens. If you take a green food mixture such as spirulina, chlorella or kelp, giving an occasional small amount to your dog will provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Don’t feed kelp on a daily basis because of its high iodine content – once a week or so is plenty. A good rule of thumb for green products is to feed onequarter the human recommended dose per 25 pounds of bodyweight.

4. Add bone broth. This is a bit time-consuming to make but amazing in its benefits.

Wild carnivores consume a lot of connective tissue, which is very high in the amino acid glycine. Muscle meat tends to contain extra methionine, which can stimulate inflammation and mental alertness. Glycine opposes the action of methionine, reducing inflammation and promoting calmness.

Bone broth is very high in glycine plus many of the jointsupporting supplements including glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. It also contains dissolved minerals from bone.

To make, add bones to approximately four litres of water, put the lid on, and simmer for a very long time – one day at least. A crockpot is safest for long, unattended simmering. A pressure cooker will do the job in six to eight hours. Add water as needed. Use bones with a lot of connective tissue – pork hocks A healthy dog is a happy dog and feet are good, but any bones

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6. Add probiotics or a bit of plain yogurt or kefir a few times a week.

Some dogs don’t do well on dairy so trying goat milk yogurt or a probiotic made for dogs is a good idea.

7. Feed organ meats. Adding liver, heart, and green tripe a few times a week provides nutrients found nowhere else. Don’t feed more than 10 percent of the meat ration.

There is no need to add every food every day, but rotating through a few of these fresh food suggestions every week will help maintain optimum health for your dog! n

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Nutrition

From Hay to Grass – Feed with Caution Beware of the pitfalls of high-sugar carbohydrate diets.

By Marijke van de Water, BSc, DHMS

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any of our horses have now transitioned from the hay winter diet to the sugar-rich fresh grasses. And even though many horse owners believe that grass is the best thing a horse can eat, it can cause a lot of horses a number of health problems since the sugar-high carbohydrate content in grass is implicated in several health conditions.

Sugars and starches are normally digested with enzymes in the small intestine.

When sugars and starches are ingested in excess, the small intestine cannot digest them all completely; thus the digestive load is forced back into the cecum in the hindgut for fermentation. The only food group that should be fermented in the cecum is fibre, from where horses get most of their energy.

Excess fermentation of sugars, therefore, leads to abnormal levels of gas production (often causing colic), heat, and acids. These destructive lactic acids destroy beneficial bacteria (probiotics) but are favoured by harmful strains of bacteria such as Salmonella, Streptococcus, and E. Coli as well as yeast cells.

These pathogens produce a variety of toxins that are very damaging to the colon walls. This cocktail combination of gas, heat, acids, and toxins is known as cecal acidosis, a condition that not only permanently disrupts the natural balance of microflora, but damages the intestinal lining of the colon, making it abnormally permeable. Known as “leaky gut syndrome,” this condition allows the migration of bacteria, yeast, acids, and related toxins to leak across the membranes, out of the colon and into the general body systems affecting the liver, kidneys, heart, muscles, immunity, and the ever sensitive lamina hoof tissue (highsugar/grass diets are the leading cause of laminitis in horses). Leaky gut is also a factor in arthritis, skin conditions, digestive disorders, and poor immunity.

High-sugar carbohydrate diets from grass are the primary

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cause of insulin resistance. Liver and muscle cells are lined with receptors that allow the sugars to enter and convert to glycogen, the storage form of sugar. Normally these receptors are prompted to open with insulin, a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. However, in the case of insulin resistance (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) the receptors no longer open, forcing the sugar to be stored as fat instead.

The insulin-resistant horse or pony most often presents with fat pads, a crested neck, or both. Insulin resistance leads to obesity, poor immunity, fatigue, hormone imbalances, and laminitis.

Some horses can also experience digestive problems transitioning from a hay diet to a grass diet, which indicates that they are not efficiently fermenting the fibre or digesting the sugar. Because hay and grass differ in types of sugar and starch as well as moisture content, they each require different species of fermentative bacteria. This is why a horse’s diet must always be changed over slowly, allowing the different species of friendly bacteria (probiotics) in the Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 15

Nutrition hindgut time to adapt rather than die off. The process of fermentation is accomplished with billions of units of various strains of bacteria. To support this dietary transition, especially if horses exhibit symptoms, supplement with probiotics. Perhaps more than any other species, horses rely on a high level of probiotics to maintain a balanced ecosystem in the gut. A deficiency of probiotics can cause bloating, colic, diarrhea, leaky gut, bacteria, and yeast infections, poor immunity, unhealthy weight loss or gain, and vitamin deficiencies.

In all cases of digestive problems, colic, leaky gut, weight loss, insulin resistance, and laminitis (whether they are on grass or not), the hindgut should be replenished with live bacteria. Refrigerate a good probiotic to maintain maximum potency.

When your horses first head out on grass each year, be sure and introduce them slowly. It is best to start them with 20 to 30 minutes of grazing for the first two or three days and then gradually increase by 20 to 30 minutes every day until they are up to four to five hours of grazing time. This generally takes 10 to 14 days. The best grazing times are early in the morning and later in the evening when the grass is lower in sugar. How much grass grazing a horse can tolerate is variable and depends on breed, level of exercise, lifestyle, health history, grass type, and the local climate. Some horses cannot be free-grazed at all, while most others should be limited. n

To Feed or Not to Feed Table Scraps: A Dog’s Best Friend or Worst Enemy?

By Mica Lemiski

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our pooch is perched beside the dinner table, gazing at you longingly with eyes as big as the plates set before you. You look at your post-meal shrapnel: a few bones, some gristle, a piece of broccoli drowning in gloopy sauce.

It doesn’t look appetizing to you, but to your four-pawed friend— whose drool is now bubbling at the corners of a sloppy pout—there’s nothing more desirable. You say to yourself: Why not let Mr. Pickles eat the leftovers? Chewing on bones is good for a dog’s teeth, right? And it would be wasteful to throw it out…

The next time you’re tempted to feed your dog from the table, you may want to reconsider. This may not sound like big news; after all, most pet owners have probably heard some version of “don’t feed your dog table scraps.”

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“Reconsidering,” however, doesn’t mean ruling out table food altogether.

As Dr. David Lemiski of the Vernon Veterinary Clinic says, it all depends on two things: what kind of food, and how much. Since dogs are omnivores like we are, if something’s not good for us to eat, it’s not good for dogs either.

This seems like a pretty simple rule to follow. In fact, Lemiski says it’s much easier to control a dog’s state of wellbeing than it is our own because if we want chips or cookies, we open the cupboard and voilà: snack time. Dogs, on the other hand, have no way of getting such unhealthy food unless we give it to them. Lemiski advises not to feed your dog things like pizza, ice cream, or other junk food because all the things that taste really good but make us chubby make our dogs www.ohwmagazine.com

Nutrition

Bad habits can arise from feeding a dog directly from the table.

Treating pets as family since 1964

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chocolate, it will react the same way as a person who’s had an overdose of caffeine.

Dr. Lemiski says that in 27 years of veterinary practice, he’s only ever seen one dog fail to survive a caffeine overload.

The dog’s death, however, was due to consumption of caffeine pills as opposed to chocolate. “I’ve never seen a dog die of chocolate toxicity. The types of chocolate we tend to eat are simply too low in methylxanthines to cause any adverse effects. If you had a Chihuahua that ate, say, two large Easter bunnies, then you might have an issue!” On the other hand, Lemiski states that baker’s chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate can be dangerous in large quantities because they have a higher methylxantine content.

What about bones? Do bones offer any dental benefits?

Dr. Lemiski says this is likely an old wives’ tale. Bones do very little for cleaning your dog’s teeth. They might give your dog something to do, but that’s about it. Bones also have one major drawback: they break teeth.

Dr. Lemiski offers one final piece of advice: Don’t treat your dog like a garbage can. Feed your dog good-quality dog food and supplement that with some healthy food from the table.

Mr. Pickles will thank you for it. n

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chubby too. Opt for foods like lean meat, cooked or raw vegetables, rice, and potatoes. These are all good sources of nutrients for dogs—so long as they’re not covered in butter, sauces, gravies, or things like that.

Lemiski also warns against making excuses like “But he really likes it!” and “He’s obviously starving!” Most dogs, he says, require much less food than we think—especially if they’re sitting around the house all day while we’re at work.

Most commercial pet foods are very high calorie because, naturally, that’s what tastes good. The best way to monitor your dog’s weight—which is often a direct reflection of its overall health—is to observe its waistline. For dogs and cats in good physical condition, you should be able to see the outline of the ribcage without seeing individual ribs standing out. There should also be a discernable waist between the ribs and the pelvis. Yet, Lemiski says this is only a general guide; like people, dogs come in an array of body types.

Obese, however, is not one of them.

So when your dog looks at you with those big, adorable, sad eyes, it’s not because he or she is starving, it’s because he or she is smart. Dogs get really, really good at asking for treats. They will train you to feed them from the table. They’ll adopt a certain position or posture and repeat it over and over, especially if you’re rewarding them for that behavior.

So while it might be okay to feed dogs table foods, bad habits can arise from feeding them directly from the table.

To combat table mooching (because do your guests really think Mr. Pickles is cute when he’s drooling all over their ankles?) Dr. Lemiski suggests putting table food in your dog’s regular bowl and setting it down in the same place your dog usually eats. That way, you’re feeding your dog a nutritious supplement, but you’re not encouraging bad behavior.

While dogs may enjoy many of the same foods we do, they do have a particular intolerance that causes many owners grief. This, of course, is chocolate. Chocolate has a component called methylxanthine [a type of caffeine] and dogs have a sensitivity to this. If a dog eats too much

P: 250.542.9707 F: 250.542.1772 www.vernonvetclinic.com

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Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 5:30 pm l Sat 8:00 am - 1:00 pm For After Hours Service Phone 250.542.9707

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Fitness

Keep Fit for Canines A tired dog is a happy dog – and a happy owner!

By Shelly Korobanik

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ust as in humans, poor physical condition touches every facet of your dog’s life, not just physically but also mentally. When dogs are deprived of adequate physical activity and mental stimulation, the boredom and pent-up energy has to go somewhere, and more often than not, it is manifested in undesired behaviours such as aggression, digging, jumping, and barking. Bottom line: the outcome is usually not a good one.

Big, small, young or old, all dogs thrive when physically and mentally challenged, but they are completely dependent on their human guardians to provide the activities to meet their needs. So how can you ensure your pooch is kept mentally and physically fit?

Here are some simple ways: •

Start early! Establish a routine when your dog is a puppy, and adjust the routine to match your dog’s needs and abilities as they progress through their adult and senior years.

Workout with the best training partner ever - your pooch!

fitness l bootcamps l learn to run l all positive obedience training l weight pulling l agility l trick & scent detection training l cani-cross l skijoring l certification testing & more!

Aug 10 - 3rd Annual 250.308.5457 Doggie Duathlon bark@poochpartners.ca 2nd Annual Trail Hiking Series until Oct www.poochpartners.ca

•

Enjoy the great outdoors! Grab the leash and get out for a walk, hike or run with your dog at least twice a day for 30 minutes.

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Take up some new dog sport activities, such as cani-cross, weight pulling or agility, which will not only challenge your pooch physically, but also mentally test them while learning a new sport.

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Challenge your dog mentally. Dogs need to learn, think and problem solve, so don’t stop training after you’ve completed obedience. Getting involved in trick training, tracking, scent detection and other activities will not only provide mental stimulation for your pooch, but also strengthen the partnership you have with your dog.

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Give your dog a job! All dogs, particularly working breeds, thrive when given a task. It can be as simply as putting a backpack on them when you take them out for a walk or teaching them to carry the newspaper for you. If you have the time, consider applying for a dog therapy program – not only will your dog have a job but

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Fitness

A Walk in the Park

you will be helping others in the community who are unable to have a dog of their own.

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Get your dog some interactive toys that keep them busy problem solving! Many of these toys, such as the Kong, are not only a great time-consuming challenge for your dog but also self-rewarding when they solve the problem and get the treat!

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Socialize your dog!

Just because your dog gets along with other dogs in an off-leash park does not mean your dog is socialized. Having a dog with manners when on leash is essential, so consider challenging yourself and your pooch to achieve certification as a Canadian Canine Good Citizen (CCGC) or Canadian Good Neighbour (CGN).

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If choosing a new canine companion for you or your family, be sure to consider the time commitment that will be necessary to keep your dog happy and healthy throughout their life. Being honest with yourself and picking a breed that matches your activity and commitment level will ensure a long and happy relationship with your dog.

You may have heard the sayings “a tired dog is a happy dog” and “a tired dog is a happy owner.” Both are true!

Mental and physical exercise benefits both you and your pooch in many ways. When adequately exercised, your dog is less likely to put on extra pounds that are detrimental to their health, and is quite happy to just relax and recuperate rather than digging up the garden or chasing the family cat. If your dog is relaxed and well behaved, there is less stress in your life, and that can only be beneficial to your own well-being!

Ensuring many enjoyable years of companionship with your dog is easy – get off the couch, grab the leash, and get started today! n www.ohwmagazine.com

A guide to on-leash and off-leash areas in the Okanagan.

By Dianne Fowlie ne of the indicators of an animal-friendly community is the provision of designated dog parks where our canine chums can burn off energy and socialize with others in a safe environment. In the Okanagan, we are blessed with an abundance of such areas, and by paying attention to a few simple, common-sense rules we are sure to enjoy some fun-filled times.

Chances are, our dogs won’t be the only ones making new friends!

The following general guidelines are standard in most communities. It’s a good idea to check which ones apply for your specific location.

• Pick up your dog’s waste and dispose of it properly. Most, if not all, dog parks provide plastic waste bags (often courtesy of a local pet store, vet clinic or business) and receptacles.

• Check your numbers: some parks specify a maximum number of dogs per person in the off-leash area.

• Aggressive dogs and prohibited breeds are not allowed in some dog parks.

• Keep your dog under control and in sight at all times. You are responsible for any damages or injuries your dog may inflict.

• To use the off-leash area, dogs must be wearing a licence and vaccinations must be up to date.

• Female dogs in heat are not allowed inside some parks.

• Respect other park visitors by keeping your dog from running up to and jumping on people.

• Put your dog on a leash before entering and when leaving the offleash area.

• Children must be supervised by an adult when in the park.

• Use the off-leash park at your own risk.

To find a dog park in your community, go to the websites shown below. If you don’t see a listing for your area, we suggest you contact your local government office or a local pet store or veterinary clinic for information.

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VERNON http://www.greatervernonrecreation.ca/pdf/dog_parks.pdf OYAMA http://www.okanaganway.ca/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Park-and-TrailGuide.pdf KELOWNA http://www.kelowna.ca/CM/page595.aspx WEST KELOWNA http://www.districtofwestkelowna.ca/index.aspx?page=582#Dog%20Parks PENTICTON http://www.penticton.ca/EN/meta/city-news/news-archives/2012-archives/newoff-leash-dog-parks.html OSOYOOS http://osoyoos.ca/content/dogs-parks Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 19

Wellness

Learning from Horses at the Equine Connection Horses can inspire our dreams and awaken our spirit, and they deserve the best care we can provide.

By Wendy Elrick, MSc, CCC

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he focus of equine-assisted learning is neither riding nor horsemanship. It takes place out of the saddle and on the ground. Equine-assisted learning and therapy offers a compelling journey of clarity and understanding.

Horses are powerful teachers who instantly respond to actions, body language, and the energy of the participant.

The Care, Lifestyle, and Well-Being of the Herd Nutrition: A healthy lifestyle for the equine-assisted learning horse is also a way to role model healthy living choices for clients. Using the framework of holistic health, attending to the horses’ physical health starts with nutrition.

Many health problems in people and horses have their roots in inappropriate diet.

Horses have a digestive system built for a life of grazing, of eating small amounts for many hours of the day. Our horses live on pasture all year round. That means that spring, summer, and fall, the horses can graze. The pasture is fairly dry and scarce in food, so there is no need to worry about a horse overeating. During the winter, the horses generally have access to hay three times a day. I feed firstcut grass hay with little alfalfa in it.

Although the pasture life partially mimics the reality of living in the wild, it is still artificial. While the wild horse can travel over diverse terrain, the domesticated horse is limited

to what is available within the boundaries of the fence lines. We therefore take additional measures to ensure our horses are getting all the nutrients they need for optimal health and a strong immune system.

Living on Pasture: Having horses on pasture allows them to move, which is their natural preference, being nomadic creatures. Our main pasture is hilly, adding fitness benefits.

In equine-assisted learning work, movement is how one releases energy. Working with trauma energy and then being shut into a stall would make it more difficult for the horse to completely cleanse from the toxic energy. Ideally, pastures offer places to get out of the weather, with large trees or manmade structures offering shelter.

To Blanket, or Not: Similarly, blanketing helps the horse manage the impact of the weather. From a holistic perspective, one could argue that blanketing is not natural. Nevertheless, domesticated horses do not live in a completely natural setting. I use blankets on my older horses during really cold spells, never leaving the blankets on for long periods without a break, thus allowing the horse’s own circulation to continue working optimally. Adding very small amounts of cayenne pepper to the horse’s feed can also address circulation issues.

Dental Hygiene: The lost art of equine dentistry appears

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Wellness to be making a comeback. We have our horses’ teeth floated (rasped) once a year; once every two years is a must. Excess tooth cuts into the gums and cheeks of the horse if not filed regularly. Horses in pain cannot be expected to do therapy work or any other kind of work.

Hoof Care: As with all of these decisions, each horse needs his or her own plan of care. From a holistic health perspective, we advocate for keeping horses barefoot. Among other things, shoes reduce circulation. From a safety perspective, for equine-assisted learning programs that primarily focus on ground exercises and not riding, a kick from a barefoot horse is less painful!

Equine Therapy: Equine-assisted learning is emotional work for all. The horses are subjected to a multitude of emotions, so we must attend to their emotional well-being. Each month, a Certified Equine Massage Therapist treats any of our horses in need via massage, essential oils, Bach flower remedies, and herbs. Massage is a wonderful way to stay connected with the physical and emotional health of your horses. As well as helping the horses release toxic energy, massaging informs you about any health issues they may be wrestling with.

Similarly, chiropractic and acupuncture treatments provide pain prevention. We have access to a veterinarian who offers acupuncture treatments as well as courses in acupressure for the horse owner.

End of Life Issues: Perhaps the most difficult topic for us humans is death, especially our own death. Yet again, the horse leads the way. The death of an equine-assisted learning horse offers a therapeutic opportunity for us to experience a final ending and to create a ritual to manage that ending.

That opportunity is also beneficial for the horse, as it offers a respectful ending to her or his time on earth.

As our program has historically employed older horses, we have had to manage several dying processes.

Each one was different, structured www.ohwmagazine.com

around the personality of the dying horse. The only similarity was how the rest of the herd was treated. We allow all of our horses to spend time with the dying horse and to see the corpse after the horse’s spirit has left the body.

When a horse dies, we take pieces of the mane and tail, wash them, and place them in separate bunches,

sometimes with ribbons. These memories are offered to anyone who had a special relationship with the deceased horses. Once again, the horses teach us about well-being and embracing all aspects of life. Such teachers should enjoy a lifestyle that is healthy and respectful of their nature. n

Connecting with the Equine Connection The Equine Connection is owned and operated by Wendy Elrick, MSc, CCC. The 8-acre property is located in a peaceful, rural setting just 10 minutes from downtown Vernon. Equine-assisted therapy is an experiential therapeutic form where horses participate as co-counsellors. The model applied at the Equine Connection uses a combination of the concepts of natural horsemanship, play therapy, story-telling, and problem-solving exercises.

Services • Equine-assisted learning opportunities • Wellness weekends • Corporate teambuilding • Custom self-development/self-awareness workshops • Equine-assisted therapy for children, adults, families, and groups • Traditional counselling Horses • Angel – Bandit’s mother and wise elder • Vienna – the herd mother • Landor – a very large Holsteiner and an angel in a horse’s body • Peaches – Landor’s love and every little girl’s dream • Kara – a dependable mare who is so happy to be a part of the Equine Connection herd • Chunky – an adorable miniature horse with a huge appetite • Bandit – the sensitive and very confident one • Little Joe – an assertive pony and Chunky look-alike Upcoming Events at the Equine Connection Open House Friday, September 12, 2014, 4pm to 6pm Come out and experience the benefits of equine-assisted learning.

Living within your Boundaries September 19, 2014, 9am to noon Allow the horses to show you your boundaries and develop clarity on your own personal strength.

The Gift in the Sandpaper: Endings October 24, 2014, 9am to noon Loss is a part of life. Learn how to let go and embrace the start of something new.

Heartwarming: All about Self-Care November 28, 2014, 9am to noon As winter approaches, let the horses help you commit to self-care and connect to what warms the heart.

Ph: 778-475-6077

For all events contact Wendy: welrick@shaw.ca www.wendyelrick.com Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 21

Wellness

The Calming Effects of a Fish Tank Relax your mind and feel the stress melt away.

By Lisa Badach

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eeping an aquarium may be good therapy for you. Studies going as far back as the late 1980s have shown that gazing at aquarium fish can reduce stress and consequently lower blood pressure.

Watching fish has been shown to calm crying babies and children suffering from hyperactivity disorder.

Dental patients who experienced hypnosis and watched an aquarium received the same or greater benefit from the aquarium. Other studies have shown that dental patients required less pain medication after watching fish prior to their procedure. It’s small wonder that so many medical practitioners have traditionally kept an aquarium in their waiting rooms.

And with all this evidence of improved health, you may have considered bringing one into your own home.

If you find the idea of your own aquarium appealing, you will need to know how to meet the requirements of your fish. Whether you enjoy a freshwater or a saltwater fish tank, the key to happy and healthy fish is

understanding water chemistry and water quality. Testing your water is the best way to have this understanding.

Why Test?

• Knowing your water quality allows you to select fish species best suited to your local water supply.

• Regular monitoring of your water quality lets you know that equipment is functioning properly.

When vital water parameters fall outside the desired range for your fish selections, maintenance may be required, or you may need to

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take steps to correct the situation.

• Testing helps you to diagnose and troubleshoot fish health issues or visual water quality concerns such as cloudiness.

• Testing lets you know how long it will take to acclimatize your new fish to your tank water.

Testing pH All fish, plants, and microorganisms are very sensitive to drastic and sudden changes in the pH levels.

Most species of freshwater fish will tolerate a pH value between 6.5 and 8.0.

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Wellness Testing KH (Carbonate Hardness) This test measures the water’s buffering capacity, which is its ability to resist changes in pH. Doing gravel vacuums monthly to remove fish waste and old fish food will prevent the organics from using up KH values needed to keep pH stable.

Testing Nitrates Algae buildup is unsightly and frustrating to get rid of. If you test your nitrates and the level is high (over 110ppm), it is a great time to water your houseplants or your landscaping as your fish tank is full of fertilizing nutrients. Having live aquatic plants is a great way to use up nitrates.

Tips on Water Quality Maintenance The general rule of thumb is one inch of fish per gallon. If in doubt, look at under-stocking your selection.

Conduct monthly water changes and remove plant and food remains from the bottom of the aquarium with a gravel vacuum. Never change your filter cartridge on the same day that you change the water. Be sure to rinse your sponge often with chlorinated water that is not hot, as the combination of chlorine and heat will kill the beneficial bacteria that are required in a fish tank. Regular rinsing will also prevent it from clogging up.

Feeding You may feed two to even three times a day, but never feed fish more food than they can eat over a period of three minutes. If the food hits the bottom, you have given too much of a pinch. Frozen food is the best quality; pellet is a better choice over flake as it will not dirty your tank as much.

If you like flake, use it only twice a week. Variety is the best way to keep a healthy community tank, because the fish will get what they need. This approach will also help when you want to add new fish to your aquarium, which is stressful for all the fish.

Follow these guidelines, lower your blood pressure, and enjoy the serenity of owning your own fish tank. n

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Keeping Kitty in Purrfect Health Learn to recognize the signs of lower urinary tract disease.

By Carlie Petrisor, DVM

W

hile they often don’t listen, will purposely defy you, and love to cause trouble, cats are a permanent fixture in many Canadian households. A recent survey estimated more than ten million cats in Canadian homes; and because they are so loyal, loveable and cuddly, we will likely continue to see these numbers grow. It is even estimated that cat ownership rates will surpass (and possibly already have) those of dogs.

While we tend to see more canine patients walk through our doors, we can’t forget that our feline friends can run into medical issues as well.

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), also commonly known as feline idiopathic cystitis, is a common medical condition in cats. Although the term describes an array of clinical signs, not all of them need to be present to classify it as lower urinary tract disease. While some of the clinical signs, like vomiting and lethargy, are quite vague and can be present with several other ailments, common signs of a urinary issue include straining to urinate, blood-tinged urine, inappropriate urination, excessive grooming or licking of their genitals and, most importantly, the complete inability to urinate. Recognition of these signs is critical in being able to find a cause and treatment for our patients.

The majority of the patients that present to veterinarians with FLUTD are young, otherwise healthy animals. Why is this the case? While research into causal factors is still ongoing, infection, bladder stones, and trauma have explained why some cats get this disease. Unfortunately, in a large number of patients, no cause is found. This situation, termed idiopathic cystitis, can make treatment difficult and sometimes very frustrating.

Treatment depends on the cause (if one can be determined). Your cat’s inability to urinate at all constitutes a medical emergency and you should contact a veterinarian immediately. In this case, hospitalization is required to relieve the obstruction by catheterization of the urethra followed by close monitoring. Obstructed cats can encounter electrolyte abnormalities and Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 23

Wellness kidney damage and run the risk of reobstruction.

Treating a non-obstructed feline involves addressing the current issue and preventing further issues from occurring. First, a urinalysis should be performed, which includes taking a sample of your cat’s urine and examining it for any abnormalities.

The discovery of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, crystals and/ or abnormal cells can help determine a cause. Even though the urinalysis may reveal nothing, it is still important, as it will help the veterinarian rule out a cause that may have a specific treatment. If a specific cause is found, the vet will initiate treatment directed towards the causal agent.

Management and treatment of FLUTD, including idiopathic cystitis, is multimodal and lifelong. It involves encouraging a healthy bladder lining, decreasing environmental stressors, formulating a special diet, and increasing water consumption.

In cats that suffer from cystitis, the bladder wall can become damaged.

Because the job of the bladder is to hold filtered fluid from the kidneys, including irritants and toxins, a defective lining allows these substances to directly irritate the bladder tissue and cause inflammation, discomfort, and pain.

A normal bladder is typically lined with a protective layer and certain supplements can be given to support a healthy lining.

Diet is also critical in managing our feline friends with cystitis. One of the common questions we receive is

how veterinary brand diets differ from pet store or grocery brand products.

Often these latter brands claim to support urinary health; however, they are not formulated to do so. Veterinary brand diets aim to accomplish a number of things in regards to urinary health, such as changing the pH to one that does not support crystal formation.

They are also often higher in sodium to encourage water consumption. Because there can be contraindications to these diets, they are often veterinary exclusive to ensure your kitty will have the utmost benefit. If your cat does not drink a signficant amount of water, it may be beneficial to feed a wet formulation to increase fluid intake. Other tricks

24 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

include adding a small amount of flavouring (low-sodium chicken broth or a small drop of tuna juice) to your cat’s food.

In addition to diet and bladder health, stress plays a key role in feline cystitis. While some animals require anti-anxiety medications (often used to prevent future episodes rather than treat current ones as they can take weeks to reach a maximum effect), others respond well to environmental enrichment. Provide scratching posts, toys, clean food and water dishes, and room to roam. If you have multiple cats in the household, it is important – especially if they do not all get along – that each cat have an area to escape to. Also important is the availability of a litter box; ideally the number of litter boxes in a house should equal the number of cats plus one additional.

Cats are an important part of many people’s lives and recognizing a urinary issue can make a huge difference in the quality of life your cat leads. By ensuring your cat has an appropriate diet, enjoys a low level of stress, and consumes an adequate amount of water, you can help to prevent feline cystitis.

If you have any questions regarding your feline’s urinary health, please don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for further information. n

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Wellness

Heatstroke Dangers and Our Pets Take these simple precautions to keep your beloved furry friend safe.

By Cathy Lehtonen, BS, MS Ed

S

ummer fever is upon us in the Okanagan, and the warmer temperatures have arrived! Everyone is outside enjoying the weather, including our pets.

However, as with humans, too much sun, little shade, and not enough water to drink can lead to heatstroke in our pets.

Since becoming a DOGSAFE® Authorized Instructor in 2011, I’ve had the opportunity in our Dogsafe® Canine First Aid course to teach many Okanagan dog professionals and dog lovers about the dangers of heatstroke for dogs.

There are many spring and summer dangers for our feline friends, but heatstroke is not one that is prevalent.

Cats are often out exploring on their own, and find suitable shade when needed, but adequate fresh water should always be available. Our canine companions, on the other hand, accompany us more often and tend to be more prone to first aid emergencies than their feline counterparts. In the warmer months, our dogs join us in various outdoor activities that can increase the risk for heatstroke, sunburn, and injured paw pads. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency and prevention is fundamental for your dog to safely join in activities such as car rides, boating, beach days, and daily jogs.

Some facts about pets and heatstroke • Heat Exhaustion - core body temperature reaches 40°C (104°F).

• Heatstroke - core body temperature reaches 41.1°C (106°F).

• Average body temperature is 38.3°C to 38.9°C (101°F to 102°F).

• They have the ability to cool themselves by panting.

However, panting does not help once their body temperature reaches 41.1°C (106°F).

• Once their body temperature has reached 41.1°C

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(106°F), fluids intravenously.

will

need

to

be

administered

As a Full Service Small Animal Veterinary Hospital We Provide Compassionate and Exceptional Care to Our Patients www.centralanimalhospital.ca

Dr. Carey Keith 2700 - 30th Ave. Vernon, BC V1T 2B6

Dr. Trinity Smith 250-549-0402 cahvet@telus.net

Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 25

Wellness Cont’d from pg 25

• • •

•

Organ failure is imminent at 42°C (109°F).

Sweating only occurs through their paw pads. If you see footprints, they may be suffering from heatstroke.

Symptoms of heatstroke are exaggerated panting, thick salivation, red gums, anxious or staring expression, vomiting, seizure, collapse, coma, and death.

First aid action for heatstroke: Immediately remove from the heat source. Place in cool (not cold) water, or use ice packs wrapped in towels on the underside of the body to start the cooling process. Contact your veterinarian and transport immediately.

Leaving a dog in a hot car is always a HOT summer topic! We see parking lot confrontations, social media outbursts focused on breaking car windows, and news headlines about a dog that has died from being left in a hot car. Understandably, it can be a hassle to have to take your dog home after a trip to the dog park before running a few quick errands, but is it worth the life of your trusted companion to put him at risk for a jug of milk or to pick up a prescription? Truth is, it takes only 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked, for your car to turn into a stuffy sauna that puts your dog at risk for heatstroke, or worse yet, death.

A study by the Animal Protection Institute showed that even moderately warm temperatures outside can quickly lead to deadly temperatures inside a closed car. Any temperature over 101°F / 38°C in a car is dangerous to a dog.

Outside Car

Inside Car

Elapsed Time

°F (°C)

°F (°C)

(time it takes to reach)

80 (26)

99 (37)

10 min

80 (26)

109 (43)

20 min

What do you do if you see a dog in a hot car?

Your first instinct may be to break the window and get the dog out of the car, but here are some things to consider. In what condition is the dog? Is he barking and moving about the vehicle? Or is he in serious distress? What is the dog’s body language relaying about your safety if you were to break him out? What if the dog is injured by the broken glass? What will you do with the dog once you get him out?

Will you be willing to pay for the veterinary care? What if the owner of the dog and vehicle returns? It is against the law to break into a car for any reason. Sadly, pets are considered property in the eyes of the law. So, here is what we suggest at Dogsafe® Canine First Aid. 1. Use our FREE Heatstroke Awareness and Responder checklist (keep it in your vehicle) http://www.dogsafe.ca/heatstrokeresponder.html and begin a report.

2. Record the licence plate and have it paged in the store.

3. If the dog is in distress, call the SPCA “dogs in hot cars” hotline at 1-855-622-7722.

4. If the owner does not appear, and the dog is NOT in immediate distress, call your local Dog Control.

In the Regional District of the Central Okanagan, the staff will work with the BC SPCA and the RCMP to enforce the new 2014 bylaw and fine for dogs in vehicles.

5. As a last resort, call your local non-emergency police/RCMP. They can run the licence plate and obtain a name that can be paged in the store, or make the decision to break the dog out.

For more information about heatstroke and the law, go to http://www.dogsafe.ca/blog/2011/8/Dogs_in_Hot_Cars_ Understanding_Heat_Stroke_and_the_Law n

26 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

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Leaving on a Jet Plane

Wellness

If you’re planning to fly with your pet, here’s some advice to ease the journey.

By Dianne Fowlie

W

hile we often go on trips without our pets, occasions do arise where we choose to – or have to – take them along for the ride. Careful planning and information gathering will go a long way toward removing travel stress for all concerned.

1. Well in advance of your trip, check the specific requirements of the airlines you will be using, including any connecting flights offered by a different carrier. You will notice that different airlines have different requirements, so don’t make the mistake of generalizing. Pay special attention to your return date to ensure that your pet will be allowed to come back with you. Some airlines do not carry animals during the summer because it can become too hot in the cargo area. Additionally, pet travel restrictions may apply during peak travel times such as the Christmas season.

2. Get a health certificate – for your pet, that is. For cats and dogs, the Canadian International Health Certificate applies to most countries and can be downloaded from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website (listed at the end of this article) for completion by a licensed veterinarian. Some countries (identified on the site) have their own health certificate, which you should use instead of the international certificate. It is imperative that you obtain the current import requirements of your destination country through their embassy or veterinary authorities.

3. Into exotic pets? You many need a CITES permit if you are transporting one. Exotic pets include parrots, many lizards and turtles, hybrid cats, some fish, and some snakes. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was established to prevent over-exploitation of wildlife species through international trade and illegal poaching. If you and your exotic pet travel frequently out of and back into Canada, you can apply for a CITES Certificate of Ownership, which is like a passport for your pet. To learn more, visit the Environment Canada website listed at the end of this article.

4. Find out the type of pet carrier your airline requires (hard shell or soft), and make sure it is secure and appropriate for the species. The carrier must be big enough for your pet to comfortably lie down, stand, or turn around, and must allow plenty of ventilation.

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To ensure things go as smoothly as possible at the airport, follow these tips: • Place your pet in the carrier before entering a busy airport, but make a pit stop as close to departure time as possible and ensure he or she is adequately hydrated.

• Help your pet to stay relaxed by using a calm voice and body language at all times. You may also wish to bring along an item that is familiar to your pet; however, be sure that you leave nothing in the carrier that poses a hazard, such as a leash or loose collar.

• In the screening area, remove your pet from the carrier and send the carrier through the screening equipment.

• Hold your pet in your arms as you proceed through the metal detector. Do not hand your pet to a screening officer while you go through security, and most definitely do not put your pet on the conveyor belt, unless you are looking for extra excitement and attention!

• Finally, remember that you are responsible for your pet and his or her behaviour throughout the entire process.

You can find more detailed information on the following websites: Government of Canada general tips for travelling with pets: http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/air/pets Health certificates: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/ terrestrial-animals/imports/policies/live-animals/pets/ eng/1326600389775/1326600500578 Exotic pet travel permits: http://www.ec.gc.ca/cites/ default.asp?lang=En&n=05BFDC16-1 Happy travels! n Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 27

Non-Profit Groups

Making a Difference When life goes sideways for pets and their owners, non-profits are there to lend a helping hand.

By Andrea Lee-Lauridsen

T

he Okanagan is home to some wonderful people running some remarkable non-profit organizations. From Salmon Arm to Osoyoos, non-profits number well into the hundreds, and a good percentage of those are animal welfare related.

Healthy Spot is proud to support many charity and community groups in Vernon, and the animal welfare related non-profit groups are no exception.

Dedicated volunteers give their time to reach a variety of objectives, including providing safe haven for homeless pets, re-homing homeless animals, tackling pet over-population, running spay and neuter programs, providing financial assistance for pet owners who need help, and many more admirable achievements.

We are excited to partner with two relatively new animal welfare groups who are providing unique services to our community.

The Pet Soup Kitchen began in December 2012 as a partnership

between Vernon volunteers and Healthy Spot Pet Nutrition. As business owners with a strong desire to support our community, we were aware of the pet soup kitchen concept and had an interest in starting one. When a customer came along with a similar idea for Vernon, it was a logical partnership. On the second Tuesday of each month, from 3:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., volunteers hand out donated pet food and supplies to anyone who shows up asking for help.

Healthy Spot sends staff to volunteer during company time alongside other volunteers from the Vernon community.

We collect donations at our store and assist with promotions for the cause.

The Road Home Rescue & Safekeeping Society is in place to assist Vernon emergency services with pets in drastic situations such as

28 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

forest fires, evacuations, house fires, or floods – any emergency that might displace a family and their pets. This group formed in 2010 and Healthy Spot has been very supportive and involved since its inception. Volunteers can provide temporary foster homes for displaced pets as well as procure pet supplies, such as food and cat litter, to assist displaced pet owners.

The Road Home volunteers also work with Interior Health to provide compassionate care for pets whose owners have suddenly taken ill and who have no other option for pet care.

Healthy Spot donates food to the group and collects donations from the public.

We also provide marketing assistance by promoting fundraising events and we sponsor their annual Yappy Hour fundraiser.

Other animal welfare related nonprofit groups in Vernon and area include Vernon & District Animal Care Society, Okanagan Humane Society, Angel’s Animal Rescue, Sit Pretty Pit, Okanagan Small Dog Rescue, and the BC SPCA. n

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Non-Profit Groups

For the Love of Animals A Who’s Who of Animal Welfare Non-Profits in the Okanagan and Area

By Dianne Fowlie BC Interior Horse Rescue Society (www.bcihrs.ca) Since the economic decline in 2008 there has been an increased need to humanely deal with unwanted horses, particularly as people view auctions and slaughter as less desirable options. The BC Interior Horse Rescue Society officially began in 2009 to provide a safe haven for these horses and give them a chance at a new beginning. Within months of launching, we assisted the BC SPCA with a large seizure of horses in Vernon, BC. We have continued to operate since then and as of December 2013 have successfully rehomed 44 horses.

We are a non-profit society and would not be able to do this important work without the support of our volunteers and donors. All money raised goes directly to benefit the horses in our care.

Almost all of our revenue is generated by volunteer fundraising efforts and the rest of it is from donations and adoption fees. We do not receive any grants or government funding of any kind.

BC SPCA (www.spca.bc.ca) The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in British Columbia.

We provide emergency medical care, protection, and shelter for nearly 29,000 animals each year through our various branches and adoption www.ohwmagazine.com

centres throughout BC. We have four Okanagan/Shuswap branches: • Kelowna: 250-861-7722.

• Penticton (South Okanagan/ • Similkameen): 250-493-0136.

• Salmon Arm (Shuswap): 250-832-7376.

• Vernon: 250-549-7297 We are also partnering with Scotiabank to organize the annual Paws for a Cause walk in September 2014. Because we currently receive no provincial or federal government funding, we need your support to

over 50 cats, two donkeys, one black angus cow, horses, and alpacas.

Some of the animals will stay there forever. The volunteers are committed to keeping the lives of these animals free from anxiety, providing a healthy environment with medical attention and encouraging adoption to responsible, caring human beings. Critteraid is not a high-profile animal group. The volunteers work steadfastly to help animals and help people with animals at the very grassroots level of our local communities. Critteraid is a registered charity (Summerland Cat Sanctuary Society) that operates entirely on donations and grants.

Okanagan Humane Society (www.okanaganhumanesociety. ca)

help us save the lives of abandoned, abused and neglected animals. To learn more about this event in your community, please visit www.spca. bc.ca/walk.

Critteraid (www.critteraid.org) Critteraid was established in 1991 to provide refuge for unwanted, abused, abandoned and feral cats. Over time, the charity grew to include a Dog House Division, CDART (Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team) which is the emergency animal rescue division, an Education Program, an Outreach Program and a Critteraid Farm division. The farm is home to the Summerland Cat Sanctuary housing

The Okanagan Humane Society is committed to help protect and save animals by helping low income families spay or neuter their pets through our spay and neuter program, helping them finding their forever homes and through community awareness and education. We are a registered charity comprised of over 10 communities, relying primarily on donations to fund animal protection, foster care and rehabilitation, advocacy, and humane education.

Although the OHS doesn’t have a shelter, our society consists of dedicated volunteers who save animals every day. The local organization formed after several cats and dogs were abandoned throughout the Okanagan and as the pet overpopulation concern started to grow. Since 1996, the OHS has spayed and neutered over 10,000 cats and dogs for families who could not otherwise afford it.

Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine 29

Okanagan Small Dog Rescue (www.oksmalldog.com) The Okanagan (Central) Small Dog Rescue Society (OSDR) is a registered society under the BC Society Act. We are a 100% volunteer-operated, nonprofit organization. All dogs in our care are housed in approved foster homes until those we rescue find their forever homes. Part of our mandate is “No dog shall die for lack of medical care.” We are a true no-kill society and our funds are raised by hardworking volunteers through a variety of fundraisers and donation appeals. None of the money we raise goes toward wages or buildings. All donations to our organization go toward the care of the animals we rehome.

We educate the public on responsible pet ownership at every opportunity. We ensure that all of our rescued dogs are vaccinated and spayed or neutered as well as treated as required for tumour removal, dental issues, ear issues, joint issues, traumatic injuries, and injuries due to neglect. We also provide for all ID tattoos and medications required when the dogs are in our care. Veterinarians who work with us provide their services at significant discounts, and often some services are provided free of charge.

Most of the food for our rescue dogs is donated to our organization by local businesses in support of our mandate.

We have supported the communities of the BC Interior since 1998 and as a registered charity since 2003, by rehoming dogs from Kamloops to Osoyoos.

Paws It Forward (www.pawsitforward.org) Paws it Forward Dog Rescue is a 100% non-profit organization run entirely by dedicated volunteers who offer their time and resources to house, train, transport, and care for rescue dogs in need. The rescue organization started in 2011 after we learned of the vast number of dogs euthanized every day due to overcrowding in California shelters.

We are an Okanagan-based rescue focusing our efforts on rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding loving

forever homes for dogs that have been surrendered, abused, neglected, abandoned, or left in high-kill shelters to die. We do not discriminate against dogs based on age, breed, or location.

Every dog deserves a happy forever home, which is why we rescue dogs both inside and outside of the Okanagan.

All of our dogs are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and given permanent identification. They receive all vet care needed to be healthy and live in their foster home until they find a “furever” family.

animals. Media and irresponsible ownership have damaged the breed’s reputation, perpetuating a cycle of discrimination and abuse.

Pitbulls are overrepresented in the shelter system, and too often face euthanasia due to limited adoption interest and deterioration in the kennel environment.

We are always in need of cash and in-kind donations. There are also other ways to help by becoming a foster, sponsor or volunteer. Please visit our website or email us at sitprettypit@ gmail.com.

The Responsible Society (www.tracs-bc.ca)

Pet Soup Kitchen Please see “Making a Difference” on page 28.

Sit Pretty Pit (www.sitprettypit.ca) Sit Pretty Pit Rescue Society is a non-profit organization striving to prevent owner relinquishment and euthanasia of pit bull type dogs in the Okanagan Valley through public education, advocacy of responsible ownership, local shelter dog rescue, and support of pit bull guardians in our community. We provide foster homes to needy dogs in our community, giving them all training, support, and a home environment before adopting them out to fully screened appropriate homes.

You may ask, why pit bulls? We are in love with these breeds! Pit bull type dogs are active, tenacious, endlessly loving, and a wonderful family pet.

Their intelligence and eagerness to please makes them excel at a variety of activities such as obedience, Rally-O, agility, nose work, disk, fly ball, weight pull, and dockdiving. Pit bull type dogs also shine as therapy dogs and service

30 Pets ‘14 - Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine

Animal

Care

TRACS is a registered, non-profit charity in Kelowna, dedicated to the kind and compassionate treatment of all living beings. In addition to handson rescue work and crisis intervention, we actively promote public awareness in areas where animals are exploited for profit, abused, or denied natural conditions.

The Road Home Rescue & Safekeeping Society Please see “Making a Difference” on page 28.

Vernon & District Animal Care Society (www.vernonanimalcare.com) We are a small local group of volunteers operating a registered, non-profit charitable society known as Vernon & District Animal Care Society (or VDACS). We service the North Okanagan Regional District, plus Falkland. Our primary focus is spay/neuter financial assistance for low-income families. We are not a shelter – our goal is to reduce the need for a shelter by reducing pet overpopulation. One hundred percent of monies donated to us or raised by us at various events stays within our District to help local animals. n

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Okanagan Health & OHW Magazine

MAGAZINE

Helping you be the best you can be...

wellness WINTER 2013

OHW Magazine

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Okanagan Health &

Okanagan Health &

Okanagan Health &

SPRING 2013

OHW Magazine

MAGAZINE

Summer 2013

OHW Magazine

MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE

Challenge Of The Channel

Stand Up and Paddle

Five local swimmers take on the English Channel this summer

for our lakes, for fitness and for fun

P. 15

P. 15

Just Move It

Crazy Busy Stress

with three-time Ironman champion Melissa Spooner pg.15

P. 10

Going Gluten Free

• The Not-so-sweet Facts About Sugar pg. 22 • Detoxify pg. 12 • Healthy Eating - Healthy Weight pg. 20 Complimentary

Complimentary

INSIDE:

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P. 18

Get Out and Ride P. 25

The Truth about Coconut Oil

Fall 2013

P. 23

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Spring 2014

Okanagan Health &

Winter 2014

Okanagan Health &

OHW Magazine

OHW Magazine

MAGAZINE

The Great Drug Debate

P. 21

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Overcoming Fitness Plateaus

Complimentary

P. 12

MAGAZINE

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Learn all about Water in the Okanagan, from Conservation to Hydration.

Genetically Modified Apples–in the Okanagan?

P. 18

The Benefits of Vitamin D

P. 17

Low Glycemic

P. 10

Timeless Yoga:

A Simple Approach to Healthy Eating

Mind-Body-Spirit Benefits

P. 14

P. 19

Whole Body Cryotherapy For Better Health

Nutty Nutrition!

P. 28

The Spay Neuter Conundrum P. 34

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P. 8

Josh Dueck Local athlete and Paralympian Josh Dueck shares his story and inspiration.

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How to Invest Wisely!

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Living with Fibromyalgia Naturally

Walk this Way Pole walking turns a simple stroll into a total-body workout P. 26

P. 26

Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine is a lifestyle magazine devoted to providing readers with local information on health and wellness. Our goal is to inspire readers to improve their wellbeing, achieve their goals and become their vision of the best they can be. Our editorial is fresh and inspiring, providing readers with information on natural and alternative health and wellness, food and nutrition information, exercise and fitness tips, mind, body and spiritual health, pet health and much more - all with a local flare!

For more information on Okanagan Health & Wellness Magazine email info@ohwmagazine.com or call 250.503.7472

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