Central Oh PetConnections July August 2017

PetConnections

CENTRAL OHIO

FRE E

wellness through the human-animal bond

Some Guy’s coming

July/August 2017 Volume 3 Issue 4

TO COLUMBUS

SEPT. 8-10 • OHIO EXPO CENTER

DispatchHomeAndGardenShow.com Admission: $8

COZY CAT COTTAGE Adoption Center SKY DOGS Agility Training and K-9 Fun

Central Ohio’s#1 Resource for Everything Pets Appearance sponsored by

Stop by Pet Valu today and talk to one of our Pet Experts about our great selection of premium, holistic, and organic food, treats, and supplies.

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6334 Gender Road • 614-548-0090

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DUBLIN

3718 Fishinger Boulevard • 614-527-8571

GRACELAND

7705 Sawmill Road • 614-553-7072

SHORT NORTH

147 Graceland Boulevard • 614-888-6768

EASTON

1004 North High St • 614-549-6183

LEWIS CENTER

3868 Morse Road • 614-476-5233

WESTERVILLE

9015 Columbus Pike • 740-548-6600

71 Westerville Plaza • 614-392-2720

WEST BROAD

3558 Soldano Boulevard • 614-278-2255

for more locations visit us.petvalu.com |

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www.petconnections.pet 1

Table of Contents July/August 2017

4

HumanAnimal Bond Annie and Her Hero

12

Behavior & Training Sky Dogs

Pet Gift Baskets - Pet Supplies - Pet Sitting wwwbasketsofnature.com Phone: 724.831.9437 Email: contact@basketsofnature.com

14

Holistic Pet Care Aromatherapy

6 Events 8 Featured Organization 10 Advertiser

18

Equine Affairs Horse Health Insurance Available

16 Feathered

Friends Parrot Problems

17 Wildlife

The Calls Of The Wild

Locator Map

11 Directories

19 In Remembrance 20 Wellness for Guardians A Pond of Possibility

2 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

From The Publisher Welcome to our Central Ohio PetConnections Bi-Monthly July/August 2017 Vol. 3 Issue 4

News & Events

Please join us for The Columbus Dispatch FALL HOME SHOW with PetConnections Pet Alley inside the same venue! The dates are September 8-10, 2017 and it is being held at the Ohio Expo Center.

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PLEASE SUBMIT ANY CORRESPONDENCE TO: info@pghpetconnections.com 724 -292-7387

CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS BI-MONTHLY Published by: Pittsburgh PetConnections, LLC. Pittsburgh PetConnections LLC. was formed in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high quality, informative publication focused on the Human-Animal Bond. We support local businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses for pets and people, to give back to our great Central Ohio communities.

M A G A Z I N E P U B L I C AT I O N S TA F F Carla Mader, Managing Editor Susan Wagner, DVM, Content Editor Kelli Koladish, Graphic Designer Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager Ken Holton, Distribution Kara Jones Photography, Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Our contributing writers have many years of combined experience and expertise in the fields of veterinary medicine and the Human-Animal Bond.

All Rights Reserved | Copyright 2017

The cover stars: Guy Fieri coming to the Home Show & Pet Alley

The Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center, is our Veterinary sponsor. We have a variety of pet exhibitors, including Mutts & Co., Pet Valu, MedVet, Schoedinger Pet Services, and many more! Featuring adoptable pets from local shelter and rescue organizations like Cozy Cat Cottage. Sit in on Symposiums with local veterinarians, dog agility demos from SkyDogs, Emi Pet Salon & Boutique is Sponsoring Nash Academy of Grooming demo area, with grooming and pet care seminars. Karrie Noterman with OHPA Bird Fairs will be exhibiting and speaking about a colorful variety of species. Visit the Creative Foundations booth for spectacular artwork.

Shop for the latest and greatest in home and pet services and products for our furry friends! Guy Fieri is the show celebrity guest on Saturday, September 9th!

This Issue

Cover – Guy Fieri! Cozy Cat Cottage, is our Featured rescue. Also, SkyDogs, and their new facility with a great variety of classes. What causes Perturbed Parrots? Read about hormone changes in pet parrots. The Ohio Wildlife writes about The Calls of the Wilds in our Wildlife section. ASPCA Pet Insurance rolls out their new pet insurance for horses, in our Equine Affairs section. We mourn the loss of our beloved Lab, Cyndi, in our Remembrance section.

See how PetConnections can help you market and advertise your pet or non-pet related business, with content which supports your message with our multi-media partnership packages! We also offer laser targeted digital marketing and advertising campaigns to our sponsors for Central Ohio.

For PetConnections Advertising inquiries contact: 724-292-7387 info@pghpetconnections.com PetConnections is also looking to grow our team with additional sales account manager professionals!

Subscribe today for your own VIP MEMBERSHIP and personal bi-monthly copy of PetConnections, and become part of the Petconnections Community! www.petconnections.pet/subscribe PetConnections supports local organizations and small business and we have established a community network of readers & members, writers, advertising sponsors and distribution points. Please support our advertising sponsors! See their locations on the map page. Check out our PetConnections Resource Directories for categorized listings.

Please submit your photos and stories, as well as remembrances to be featured online and in future issues to: info@pghpetconnections.com.

Thank you for picking up PetConnections. Take care of yourself and your pets this winter season and be well this spring season!

Warmly, Carla Mader Publisher Pittsburgh & Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine Please submit any correspondence to: info@pghpetconnections.com Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet Follow PghPetMag on Twitter and “Like” us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/PghPetconnectionsMagazine Copyright 2017 All Rights Reserved www.petconnections.pet 3

Human-Animal Bond

ANNIE HERO AND HER

By Susan Wagner DVM, MS, ACVIM

Annie Brody never had a dog as a child, but always loved them. New York City was not the perfect place to begin life as a dog person, but at age forty-five, Annie felt it was time. She adopted the dream dog of her childhood, a golden retriever, who had been found in a parking lot in the Bronx without any identification. She named him Hero. He would come to change her life in ways both unexpected and unanticipated.

Annie cherished Hero’s companionship, and could hardly wait to get home after work so she could go outside with her new buddy. Morning and evening walks and forays to the fenced-in dog park were not enough.

She began to take Hero out of the city on weekends to places where he could hike off-leash in the woods. Soon the weekends weren’t enough either. The turning point came one night in the city after a glorious weekend in the country.

It was raining and they were in a taxi driving down Park Avenue.

Annie noticed that Hero’s perpetual grin was gone, and that he seemed to have become depressed. She wondered what the problem was, so she crouched down and put her head right next to Hero’s to see from his vantage point. All she saw were sharp angles and glass and metal squares of gray and black. They had just been in the countryside with lush fields and rolling hills and trees – lots of round edges and wonderful smells of nature. No wonder he was de-pressed.

Next: Annie’s Move Annie then realized that subconsciously she was having the same depressed reaction to the city as Hero. Through many years of living surrounded by concrete and metal, she had learned to flip a switch and accept the unnaturalness of Manhattan as the price for her lifestyle. But once she allowed herself to see this metropolitan world through Hero’s eyes – to imagine the smells he was experiencing and to hear the sounds of the city through his ears – it was dramatically different. She desired to build a partnership that was best for both of them, rather than merely assert ownership. Annie realized that the

4 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

conscious choice was to think beyond how the dog should adapt to her life. How could she create a lifestyle that would be harmonious for human and animal?

Looking and listening from Hero’s vantage point, Annie woke up to what she needed to do. She suddenly knew she needed to find a more natural way of living. She quit her job, sold her apartment, and moved to six wooded acres upstate. Flash forward a few years.

Instead of life in the fast lane, Annie now lives at the end of a country dirt road surrounded by animals. She runs weekend dog camps for city people and their canines, where folks can enjoy nature and learn a wide variety of dog related topics. Annie likes to say that her life has literally “gone to the dogs,” and she’s proud of it.

The story of Annie and her dog Hero is a perfect example of the spiritual nature of animals. Could it be that Annie was really meant to live in the country, and that one of her life’s tasks was to create Camp Unleashed? The point in her life when she knew it was time to get a dog was the time many of us wake up and realize there has to be more to life than we are experiencing. Annie’s answer was always there, but like most of us, she couldn’t see it. She could only discover it through the love of an animal.

The truth of animals is that they are directly connected to our instinctive wisdom. They come into our lives just when we need them, and they exit once their spiritual job has been realized. We only have to learn how to receive their guidance. They teach us by putting knowledge right where it counts – in our hearts. Annie was brave enough to follow her heart, and doing so changed her life.

Its not that city life is bad for every dog or human, it just wasn’t good for Annie anymore. And for every Hero leading his guardian to the country, there is a Heroine leading her two-legged companion to Broadway.

Adapted from Through A Dog’s Ear: Using Sound to Improve the Health & Behavior of Your Canine Companion by Joshua Leeds & Susan Wagner DVM, MS. Sounds True Publishing 2008.

Dr. Susan Wagner is a veterinary neurologist whose pioneering work acknowledges the spiritual interaction between people and animals.

www.petconnections.pet 5

Events

September 8th-10th Ohio Expo Center Friday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

e m a in in g 2 F a ir s R 1 7 !

In 20

OHPA BIRD FAIRS 2017 Pittsburgh, PA

Medina, OH

***NEW LOCATION***

735 West Lafayette Rd. Medina, Ohio 44256

August 19

Garden City Hall 600 Garden City Dr. Monroeville, PA 15146 www.ohpabirdfair.com @PHPAbirdfair

6 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

October 22

Anesthesia & Analgesia Avian & Exotics Cardiology Critical Care Dermatology Emergency Medicine Integrative Medicine Internal Medicine Interventional Radiology Medical Oncology Neurology & Neurosurgery Ophthalmology Radiation Oncology Radiology Rehabilitation Surgery

providing exceptional emergency & specialty care to the pets of greater ohio! www.medvetforpets.com

Featured Organization

Cozy Cat continues to work hard to be a leading force and advocate for the Central Ohio homeless cat population, as our resources permit.

• Provides monthly low cost spay/neuter clinics at our facility for anyone needing this service.

• Works with many local schools, local businesses, Scout troops, and Service Club programs to educate and inform the public, especially our youth, on the problem of cat overpopulation to help instil this message that when we spay and neuter you save thousands of lives are saved.

• Cozy Cat continues to be a driving force in reducing cat overpopulation. Our goals include: - Spaying/neutering of feral cat colonies and working closely with fellow rescue groups that do not have a facility for surgeries.

- Working with other shelter groups to reduce their high euthanasia rates.

- Raising extra funds to get a van for transporting and picking up donations that save our dollars for medical care of our feline residents.

How You Can Help?

1. VOLUNTEER! Join our team!

We are seeking committed, dependable, hard-working volunteers aged 13 or older to help with various tasks at the adoption center. For more information about volunteering, email us at cozycatvolunteer@gmail.com Volunteers must complete orientation before beginning service.

Orientation/refresher trainings at Cozy Cat: • 1st Monday of each month at 6:00pm (excluding holidays) • 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:00am (excluding holidays) Volunteers are needed to care for our feline residents on the following days/times: • Monday through Sunday mornings 8:30am to Noon (This is our greatest need at present) • Monday through Friday evenings 5:30pm to 7:30pm Volunteers might also be interested in: • Setting up or assisting with booths at various events, craft shows, etc.

• Helping to organize or promote fund raising activities and events • Holding garage sales • Assisting with mailings • Craft making • Performing repair work • Providing a foster home for a mother cat and kittens • Working on special projects • Socializing our feline residents!

If you have any other ideas on ways to help, please feel free to suggest them. We would love for you to put your individual talents, skills, and ideas to work at Cozy Cat Cottage. Please contact us if you are interested in becoming a volunteer. Also, please look at our Wish List for other ways you can help. Your efforts will be rewarded by our appreciative purring residents.

8 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

2. DONATE: Here is your chance to help. Your financial support of Cozy Cat Cottage is so important. Without your continued support, we could not continue with our mission of saving the lives of felines in dire situations or facing euthanasia at other shelters.

HEARTS & PAWS FUND DRIVE

KITTIES IN NEED (KIN) FUND

No cat should ever be euthanized because they do not have a home.

Our KIN Fund helps to cover the costs of our youngest residents who make their way to Cozy Cat. A donation to this fund will help defray the costs for:

Make your tax-deductible donation through PayPal on our website www.cozycatcottage.org. Under “Add special instruction to recipient,” please include a note letting us know that your donation should be designated to our KIN Fund.

You can also mail your donation to: Cozy Cat Cottage, P.O. Box 283, Powell, OH 43065-0283

• Spaying/neutering • Veterinarian examination (x2) • Testing for heartworm, feline immunodeficiency virus, and feline leukemia • Distemper, Leukemia, and Rabies vaccinations • Flea treatment and de-worming (if necessary)

Adoption Center

62 Village Pointe Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065

HOURS:

Monday thru Friday: 8:30am - 11:30am & 5:30pm - 7:30pm Saturday: 10:00am - 4:00pm Sunday: 1:30pm - 5:00pm

614-336-8510 cozycatcottageadoption@gmail.com www.cozycatcottage.org www.petconnections.pet 9

Advertiser Locator

D

10 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

Inside Front Cover ASPCA Page 1 Pet Valu Page 1 Creative Foundations Page 2 Real Big Puppy Page 2 Baskets of Nature Page 5 K9 Grass Page 5 Mia Bella’s Page 7 MedVet Page 15 Best Breed Page 15 A Beaver Animal Clinic

Page 15 B Canine Health Page 19 C Crystal Remembrance for Pets Page 19 Closure at Home Inside Back Cover Hindu Temple Back Cover Columbus Dispatch Home Show

Directories Adoption, Rescue, & Shelters

Avian & Exotics

MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets (Hilliard) 614-870-0480 www.medvetforpets.com OHPA Bird Fairs www.ohpabirdfairs.com

Dog Parks

Alum Creek Dog Park www.alumcreekdogpark.com Companion Club Dog Park 740-881-2000 www.columbusdogpark.com Godown Road Dog Park www. worthingtondogpark.com Heritage Trail Dog Park www.hilliardohio.gov/play/heritage-trail-dog-park Pizzurro Park and “Dog Park” www.gahanna.gov/departments/parks/ communityParks.aspx

Equestrian

Central Ohio Riding Club 614-873-6644 www.centralohioridingclub.com Equus Now! 740-549-4959 www.Equusnow.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-6661 www.vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Landscaping & Lawncare Forever Lawn 844.614.TURF(8873) www.foreverlawnohio.com Good Nature Organic Lawn Care 888-529-6723 www.whygoodnature.com

Pet Burial, Cremation & Memorial Services

Crystal Remembrance for Pets 888-930-7363 Day Manofsky Funeral Service 614-532-5012 www.Daymanofskyfuneralservice.com

Rutherford Funeral Homes 614-885-4006 www.Rutherfordfuneralhomes.com Schoedinger Pet Services 614-224-2691 swww.choedingerpetservices.com

Pet Fencing

Invisible Fence 614-888-3647 www.columbuseast.invisiblefence.com Pet Stop of Ohio www.Columbuspetfence.com

Pet-Friendly Auto Dealerships Central Ohio Area Byers Subaru 877-265-2083 www.columbussubaru.com Hatfield Subaru 877-371-2094 www.hatfieldsubaru.net

Pet Insurance

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance 888-716-1203 www.aspcapetinsurance.com

Pet Resorts- Boarding, Daycare, Grooming, Agility & Training ARF! Agility and Rally for Fun! www.arfagility.com Advanced Boarding & Grooming 740-549-9999 www.advancedboardingandgrooming.com K9 Connection 614-778-0431 www.k9connectiononline.com Park Your Paws Doggie Daycare 614-262-PAWS www.parkyourpaws.org Pet Palace Pet Boarding Resort www.petpalaceresort.com The Dog Spaw Pet Grooming 614-245-4169 www.thedogspawsalon.com Willow Wood Pet Resort & Training Center 614-304-1921 www.petresortwillowwood.com

Pet Retail, Supply, & Accessories April Minech Custom Portraits/Pet Inspired Art www.LadybugDelightz.etsy.com Best Breed Holistic Pet Nutrition www.Bestbreed.com Canine Health Supplements www.peggymills.lifevantage.com Close 2 Ur Heart Jewelry www.feifish.etsy.com Collar Doos www.collardoos.com Fan Reps Legwarmers and More 412-439-3063 www.fanreps.com Kobi Collars www.kobicollars.com Lucy Pet Products 844-724-LUCY (5829) www.lucypetproducts.com Moochie & Co. www.moochieandco.com

Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages www.Naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com Pet People www.petpeoplestores.com Pawdentify and Links-It Collar Tags www.pawdentify.com Plexidor www.plexidors.com Timber Wolf Leather collars, leashes, harnesses 419-308-4118 Baskets of Nature www.basketsofnature.com

Pharmacies

Murray Avenue Apothecary www.maapgh.com/pet-supplements

Veterinary Medicine

Elemental Veterinary Center & Pet Spa 614-824-4036 www.elementalvetcenter.com Lifetime Pet Wellness Center 614-888-2100 www.lifetimepetwellness.com Health & Harmony Animal Hospital 614-360-3941 www.healthandharmonyanimalhospital.com The Animal Care Center at Granville 740-587-2229 www.animalcarecentergranville.com

Veterinary Specialty and Emergency MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets 614-846-5800 www.medvetforpets.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-3551 www.vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Wellness for Guardians

The All Life Community for Integrative Well Being 740-201-8242 www.alllifecenter.org Creative Foundations 877-345-6733 www.creativefoundations.org Judith Levy Coaching www.judithlevycoaching.com Unique Home Solutions 614-845-0500 www.uniquehomesolutions.org

Visit our online directory at pghpetconnections.com/Dog-Cat-Directory

Almost Home Dog Rescue of OH 614-766-1001 www.almosthomeohio.org Canine Companions 1-800-572-BARK (2775) www.cci.org/northcentral Capital Area Humane Society 614-777-7387 www.cahs-pets.org CHA Animal Shelter 614-891-5280 www.chaanimalshelter.org Colony Cats Adoption Center 614-593-0055 www.Colonycats.org Columbus Dog Connection 614-471-9000 www.Columbusdogconnection.com Cozy Cat Cottage Adoption Center 614-336-8510 www.cozycatcottage.org Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center 614-525-3647 www.franklincountydogs.com Pets without Parents www.petswithoutparents.net

Wildlife

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium www.columbuszoo.org Ohio Wildlife Center 614-793-WILD www.ohiowildlifecenter.org SCRAM! Wildlife Control www.ohiowildlifecenter.org The Wilds www.thewilds.columbuszoo.org

List your business today! info@pghpetconnections.com www.petconnections.pet 11

Behavior & Training Basics Class

Located at 693 Harrisburg Pike, Columbus, OH 43223 skydogstraining@gmail.com 614-648-3449 www.skydogs.org Sky Dogs is a new training club dedicated to enriching your bond with your dog.

We are currently offering agility, rally, obedience basics, deaf dog basics, barn hunt, flyball, disc dog, reactive dog, and lots of other classes as well!

This class will work on teaming with your dog to learn how to communicate with each other, and reinforce behaviors you like, while redirecting behaviors you don’t like. We will learn Sit, Down, Touch, Leave It, Stay, walking on a loose leash, greeting humans, greeting other dogs, door etiquette, and beginning heeling work. More importantly, we will teach your dog to focus on you, and work to strengthen his intelligence to facilitate learning. This class is appropriate for dogs of all ages, from puppy to seniors.

Flyball Class Flyball is a relay race for dogs . . . teams send dogs over a series of hurdles to a box that releases a tennis ball, and the dog retrieves the ball and brings it back over the hurdles to the handler. If you have a dog who loves to chase balls, then this could be your dog’s dream come true!

We strive to be a source for dogs and their people to come and strengthen the human/canine bond, and learn to get the most out of our time with our canine companions.

Loose Leash Walking Class Walking with your dog on a leash should be an enjoyable time for both of you. This means no pulling, straining, or choking for your dog, and no pulling, straining, tired arms or sore back for you! This threeweek class will give you the tools and knowledge to teach your dog to walk without pulling and show him that orienting to you is the behavior that gives the best rewards.

Agility FUNdamentals

Shaping Class

This class is a nice place to start if you are thinking about agility for your dog. It’s perfect for young puppies, or any dog who needs a firm foundation in control before starting on equipment. Shy dogs will benefit from the foundation work in this class, building confidence to progress further. Dogs will learn about balance and movement, hind end awareness, targeting and sending, among other fundamental elements of the sport.

12 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

Using shaping, and marking behavior to teach your dog anything . . .This is a very fun class! We will use shaping to teach your dog to paint, and to play musical instruments, among other things.

Yes, really! It is a fun way to learn the basics of shaping, and you will have a beautiful piece of artwork, suitable for framing, at the end of the session. And, because it’s so fun, it’s not just for beginners . . . experienced trainers will have a good time, too! Because really, doesn’t every dog need to express themselves artistically?!

Special Needs Basics Class – Deaf Dogs/Visually Impaired Dogs This class is specifically for dogs with hearing impairments and/or visual impairments. We will help you communicate with your deaf dog, whether born deaf, or whether deafness/vision became an issue later in life. Using a visual or touch marker as needed, we will show you how to get and keep your deaf Photo by Rose Adler Photography dog’s attention, and teach basic manners, as well as basic obedience. We will also help you to “think like a deaf dog” and increase your understanding and communication abilities with your deaf pal.

Conditioning Class This class uses the Fit Paws Bones, special dog versions of the fitness peanuts, platforms, wall boogie boards and treadmill to work your dog’s core and stretch and strengthen and condition! Good for young active performance dogs, as well as older dogs who need to remain as flexible as possible to help with mobility issues. And I’m always amazed at how much the dogs love to work on this equipment!

This class will work on teaming with your dog to learn how to communicate with each other, and reinforce behaviors you like, while redirecting behaviors you don’t like. We will learn Sit, Down, Touch, Leave It, Stay, walking on a loose leash, greeting humans, greeting other dogs, door etiquette, and beginning heeling work. More importantly, we will teach your dog to focus on you, and work to strengthen his intelligence to facilitate learning.

Reactive Dog Class

Canine Good Citizen Class This is a 6-week class appropriate for dogs that have completed a basic obedience class or have a good grasp of basic manners such as Sit, Down, Stay, Come, Loose Leash Walking/Heel, and impulse control. The class will prepare dog/handler teams to take the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, which is available to all breeds as well as mixed breeds. The test consists of 10 parts, which require dogs to demonstrate basic skills such as those listed above. This is a good class to continue your dog’s training, as well as sharpen skills for an older dog.

About SkyDogs Founder: Image © Monty Sloan / Wolf Park / www. wolfpark.org.

Disc Dog Classes Do you think your dog would like to play disc games? This 6-week class will teach you how get your dog interested in the game, learn how to teach strong, confident catches, learn how to get your dog to bring the disc BACK to you and release it, and learn how to throw so that your dog can catch every time!

Barn Hunt Barn Hunt class is for any dog who loves to use his nose, or has a high prey drive! Rats are hidden in safe tubes in the straw, and the dogs learn to find them and alert the handler.

Allison Holloway has been training dogs professionally since 1991. She has attended numerous seminars and conferences on behavior and training including Ian Dunbar, Sophia Yen, Terry Ryan, Roger Abrantes, Pat McConnell, Jean Donaldson, and Sue Sternberg, among many others. She has been a member of Buckeye Region Agility Group, Dog Scouts of America, and Association of Pet Dog Trainers.Allison has taught obedience at Petsmart for over 10 years, and agility at Dogs Scouts camp in Michigan for 8 years. She worked as director at a rural humane society for 6 years, and was certified as a SAFER evaluator. Currently her passion is training deaf and/or blind dogs.

Allison loves the connection that can develop between a dog and handler, and her favorite part of training is teaching others to connect with their dogs and form a partnership.

Allison and her husband, Joe King, co-founded Sky Dogs in 2014. www.petconnections.pet 13

Holistic Pet Care

AROMATHERAPY FOR PETS

By Dr. Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH

A

romatherapy literally means “treatment using scents.” This designation is a bit of a misnomer since the scent of the oil accounts for only part of its therapeutic effect. Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils for healing. Essential oils are volatile liquid plant materials that play a key role in the biochemistry of the plant. These oils are located between the cells of the plant and act as messengers and regulators.

Essential oils protect the plant from parasites and disease as well as assist the plant in adapting to its environment.

In France, where the modern science of aromatherapy originated, the use of essential oils is incorporated into mainstream medicine.

In that country, some oils are regulated as prescription medications for their antiviral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties.

Doctors determine which oil to use by culturing the disease organism and testing the ability of different oils to kill the germ. This technique is called an aromatogram and is similar to an antibiotic sensitivity test commonly used in conventional medicine.

HOW IT WORKS Essential oils have their healing effect due to their many constituents. There are between 200 and 800 different chemicals in any given oil.

Just a few of the common compounds include esters which have anti-fungal and sedating properties, ketones which ease congestion, alcohols which are antiviral and antibacterial, and sesquiterpenes which are antiinflammatory and can cross the blood-brain barrier. Essential oils have a relatively small, simple, and lipid-soluble molecular structure that allows them to pass easily through the skin when massaged topically, which is the most common mode of treatment.

HISTORY Essential oils have been used in healing for thousands of years. The Chinese burned plant-derived materials as incense to balance the body as many as 6,000 years ago. The Egyptians used essential oils for healing and for embalming. They even developed a crude distillation device to extract the oils from plants. Greeks and Romans continued the aromatherapy tradition in the West.

The word aromatherapy was actually coined by the French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé in the 1920s. While working in his laboratory, he suffered a third degree burn to his hand and forearm. He instinctively thrust his arm into the nearest liquid, which happened to be a container of pure lavender oil. His injury healed so quickly that he began researching and writing about the medicinal use of essential oils.

Today in the United States, aromatherapy is used mostly in conjunction with massage therapy or infused into the air for relaxation.

14 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

The scented oils can also be diffused into the air as a way of allowing assimilation of their healing qualities through the sinuses. Only a few specific oils can be taken orally. The mode of treatment depends on the condition being addressed as well as the oil being used. Some oils are toxic if ingested and some can cause skin irritation when applied topically.

DILUTION It is best to dilute any essential oil before applying it to the skin of the dog or cat. This expands the oil and makes aromatherapy more economical; it also lessens the chance for skin irritation. The best way to dilute an oil is to mix 30 drops of the essential oil into one ounce of cold-pressed almond oil. To apply topically, massage several drops of the diluted oil into the pet’s ear flaps. The following oils should never be applied topically without being diluted due to their caustic natures: cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, oregano, and thyme. Also remember that any oil applied to the skin of a pet might be licked and ingested if not applied in a strategic location (like the ear flap). Do not apply toxic oils to any area that the pet can reach with his tongue.

QUALITY Pure essential oils used for aromatherapy are called therapeutic grade, but this designation is based on industry consensus and is not always reliable. There is a vast difference in quality of oils between companies. Research the oil producer carefully to choose the best product. Two of the most important factors that determine the quality of essential oils are how the plants are grown and how the oils are extracted. It is ideal that the oil-producing plants be grown organically to limit contaminants. The oils should be extracted by lowpressure, steam distillation to limit the damage to the oil components. Also, be sure any oils that are used have not been adulterated by the addition of synthetic chemicals.

Be aware that perfume oils, fragrance oils, or fragrances are vastly different from essential oils. They contain synthetic chemicals and can do more harm than good. Because the term aromatherapy is loosely used on labels, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully when selecting an oil for aromatherapy use.

BENEFITS Aromatherapy can be quite useful for common animal conditions. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that lavender oil is helpful for easing car sickness in dogs. Lemongrass can be massaged directly onto injured joints twice daily to speed healing. Frankincense can be infused or applied topically for its calming effect for stressed, anxious, or over-excited animals. It can also be used topically once or twice daily on a wart, cyst, and any tumor to help the body break it down. A good book on aromatherapy will give you more suggestions for the use of essential oils.

HELPFUL OILS Oil Citronella Cumin Frankincense Lavender Lemongrass Peppermint Sandalwood Thyme Ylang Ylang

Use Insect repellent Immune Stimulant Calming effect, tumors Car sickness Joint injuries Digestive aid Bronchitis Asthma, colitis Balances blood pressure

Dr. Doug

The Holistic Vet Sign up for Dr. Doug’s blog and get free weekly holistic pet health insights

Holistic and Conventional Care

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Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-3; Sun. Closed 357 State Avenue | Beaver, PA 15009

724-774-8047

beaveranimalclinic.com www.petconnections.pet 15

Feathered Friends

PERTURBED PARROT?

I

t’s the same words muttered by so many companion bird families at this time of year.

“My sweet bird has turned into a velociraptor!

What did I do to make them so angry?”

For over 25 years, I have bred various species of cockatoos, macaws, and amazons. One of the greatest challenges in educating the public regarding these birds is the understanding of hormonal insurgence at various times of the year.

Before I go any further, it is important to understand that this is a natural process for birds to experience. It usually manifests between the ages of 5 and 12 years of age. During this time, there can be a period where the bird is overly aggressive. This aggression lessons over time and tends to minimize in severity over future hormonal seasons. Many bird families are at a loss for how to deal with these sudden changes in temperament. This is when many families decide that maybe their beloved pet no longer fits within their family unit. As a result, many bird rescues are inundated with various species of “sexually mature” parrots that are deemed aggressive or manifesting unacceptable behaviors such as screaming and biting.

Let’s try to see this issue through the eyes of our feathered friends. In the wild, a parrot at this age (5-12 years) would have most likely already paired with a mate. They would spend their days foraging for food, guarding a nest, and making babies. In our homes, birds do not have these options.

And a growing issue that many avian specialists are seeing now, is the insurgence of hormonal aggression in hand fed parrots when they come of age.

Over the last twenty or so years, hand feeding parrots has become the normal way of rearing young parrots here in the United States. (In some countries, it is illegal to hand rear birds.)

During hand feeding, the baby bird goes through a process that is called “IMPRINTING.” During this time, the baby bird learns through feeding to associate and bond with humans. They essentially identify humans as their “flock” so to speak.

Once the baby parrots have weaned, they are then placed into homes that tend to lavish them with attention. (Everyone loves a snugly baby 16 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

bird.) It is at this time they bond with their newly found “flock.” This bond can become strong with a particular family member. The bird may essentially be picking a mate or “pair bonding.”

And obviously, this choosing will not be fruitful.

During the first few years of the bird being in its new home, the attention given to the bird can program them to accept the person as their mate. And then suddenly, the day comes when the hormonal drive to produce young changes the sweet disposition of your bird. Why does this happen? It goes without saying that a bird picking a human as its mate cannot produce offspring. Therefore, the bird experiences a great deal of frustration. The drive to produce offspring is so great, the bird cannot understand why it’s “mate” shows no signs of interest. The frustration can manifest as screaming, biting, and other aggressive behaviors.

By Edward R. Moats

8. Increased vocalization 9. Females increase food intake of calcium such as cuttlebone and protein rich foods 10. Masturbation How to intervene when a bird is displaying hormonal behaviors.

ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES YOU CAN UTILIZE WHEN DEALING WITH A HORMONAL BIRD IS HAVING THEM TRAINED TO STEP UP ONTO A STICK OR T-PERCH. Stick training allows you to be able to move your bird from one point to another without having to come into direct contact. Thus, decreasing your chances of being bitten. Other ways to intervene include: 1. Decrease the length of “light” time. (8-20 hours).

To understand ways to curtail these behaviors, we first need to identify what triggers hormonal activity.

2. Increase exercise by encouraging foraging.

Foraging is an effective way to keep birds busy.

Extended Hours of Light natural or artificial can cause the reproductive organs to enlarge.

Thus, triggering the release of hormones and eagerness to breed.

4. Remove any potential nest sites.

The Availability of a Nest or object that can be utilized as a nest. This can include cardboard boxes or even pillows from a living room couch.

Availability of a mate: Can be you, another bird or object such as a toy.

Diet: A nutrient dense diet high in fats/ proteins and starches. This can trigger “ABUNDANCE RESPONSE.” Inappropriate (sexual) petting: This includes a bird’s backside or vent and under the bird’s wings.

Identifying hormonal signals: 1. Increased sexual responses when petted. (Especially inappropriate areas.

2. Feather plucking. Mostly on chest and in between legs

3. Adjust their diet by not offering foods high in fats and proteins.

5. Offer various toys and methods of foraging that will redirect hormonal responses.

6. Avoid petting or stroking your bird inappropriately. Petting in these designated areas can solicit sexual interest.

Another way to intervene is chemically. There are various products on the market that can be administered to your bird that can lessen the hormonal responses; however, I personally feel that these should be used as a last resort when all other methods have been exhausted.

In closing, it is important to understand that hormonal episodes in sexually mature parrots is a natural process. However, it is equally important that the bird family recognize that their daily interactions with their bird can either contribute to or lesson the hormonal responses.

I hope that this article helps in some way to identify the triggers and provide you with the tools to redirect hormonal responses.

3. Frequent regurgitation of food, panting, and crouching down with wings extended 4. Increased shredding of paper and toys.

Increased chewing 5. Nest building. Or hiding in dark areas searching for a potential nest site 6. Aggression and or possession of a potential nest site 7. Possessiveness of favorite person or another bird. Demonstrating aggression toward others

Edward R. Moats has been an Avian Specialist and successful breeder or various species of parrots for over 25 years. He owned and operated a successful aviary known as “Pittsburgh Parrotlets”. Until 2015, when he decided to devote his efforts to parrot rescue and educating the public on the proper care of companion birds. His work has appeared in various avian magazines such as “The Linnie Ledger”, “Parrot Society U.K.”, and “P.E.A.R.L. Parrot Rescue” monthly newsletter. Along with chairing as the Vice President of PEARL Parrot Rescue, he is also an accomplished writer and blogger on various Facebook pages such as “Pittsburgh Parrots” and “Pittsburgh Parrotlets.” His work is also showcased on the website: www.pearlparrots.com.

Wildlife

WILD

The Calls of the

By Linda Forte-Spearing | Volunteer at Ohio Wildlife Center Sixteen thousand is a BIG number. It’s also a monumental task! Every year, Ohio Wildlife Center receives close to 16,000 calls on its 24/7 wildlife information line.

A majority are answered in real time by staff or trained volunteers, with subject matter ranging from potentially serious to not so much.

Orphaned animals are perhaps the most common reason for inquiry. People phone to say they’ve discovered an abandoned fawn in their yard, though most times this isn’t the case. It’s natural for mother deer to leave their babies unattended in a safe and protected area. Fawns have little obvious scent. Moms have lots of it, so are more easily detected by predators.

It’s a similar situation with baby birds. Birds go through several different life stages: egg, hatchling, nestling, and fledgling. And much like that middle school, puberty phase, fledglings are awkward. They spend an abundance of time on the ground, hopping about, and trying to fly. They may look helpless, but a parent is likely still taking care of them.

The case of the “stray” snapping turtle strikes a more humorous chord. (It’s kind of hard to be a stray when you’re wild to begin with.) This species is abundant in Ohio. It doesn’t bask in the sun, however, so is seldom seen.

And that turkey someone spotted in Homestead Park? Turns out it’s the perfect place for a wild turkey to be.

“We educate the public one phone call at a time,” says Logan Oates, the Center’s

Community Engagement Coordinator, “and we take great pride in being a resource for a diverse group of people worried about a wide range of issues.”

control companies that trap and euthanize, SCRAM! provides natural, humane, and permanent solutions to prevent and resolve conflicts between people and Ohio’s wildlife.

The infoline is also appropriate for those dealing with nuisance situations.

For an $89 fee, SCRAM! will conduct a thorough property inspection, document animal

Speaking of nuisance — Bird feeders and birdbaths attract a plethora of wildlife. Dense ground cover, bushes, and trees offer them shelter. Subtract food and water from the equation and fewer critters are bound to call your yard “home.” Clearing unwanted shrubbery will also help. As open space leaves wildlife vulnerable to predators, they’d rather hang out where they can hide.

You can also discourage wildlife from taking up residence around your residence by: • Placing garbage in animal proof containers.

• Putting garbage at the curb the morning of pick-up versus the night before.

• Cleaning food residue from grills.

• Covering or securing compost piles and bins.

• Installing chimney caps.

• Covering roof and dryer vents.

• Clearing gutters and downspouts of nesting debris.

It is important to note that wildlife trapping is NOT the answer to wildlife control. In Ohio, it’s illegal to relocate any animals at high potential risk for rabies (skunk, opossum, raccoon, coyote, fox, and beaver). To do so promotes transmission of the disease. Relocated wildlife also has a decreased chance of survival, because it is difficult to find adequate food and water sources in unfamiliar surroundings.

evidence, identify structural compromises and safety concerns, and recommend a permanent solution. SCRAM! can then mitigate the issue for an additional cost. If you’re handy, they are happy to provide the guidance you need to fix the problem.

Ohio Wildlife Center also operates a free Wildlife Hospital in central Ohio. The hospital is open to assist with wildlife health issues Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For additional information about SCRAM! or Ohio Wildlife Center, including a listing of the licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area, visit www.ohiowildlifecenter.org. Please call the Center’s monitored information line at 614-793WILD for help with common wildlife dilemmas.

SCRAM! Wildlife Control is a 100% non-lethal service of Ohio Wildlife Center. An alternative to traditional animal www.petconnections.pet 17

Equine Affairs

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance For Horses Now Available Crum & Forster Pet Insurance GroupTM has launched its first-ever insurance plans exclusively for companion horses.

The idea to launch equine health insurance stemmed from the discovery of a growing trend among horse owners to view their horses as companions or family members rather than property. The provider of ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, Crum & Forster Pet Health Insurance Group™, has been offering health insurance for other fourlegged family members and companions, dogs and cats, for 20 years through its licensed agency, C&F Insurance Agency, Inc. All other equine health insurance plans currently in the market must be purchased in conjunction with equine mortality or loss of use insurance, and many of these plans also require that the horse meet a certain minimum purchase value. In a time when the perspective on horse ownership is changing and other insurance companies are still basing the need for equine health insurance and eligibility for enrollment on a horse’s property value, we saw a great opportunity to introduce a new product to the market.

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plans for horses are stand-alone, health-insuranceonly plans, meaning the purchase of mortality insurance is not required to enroll, and the amount paid for a horse is not a determinant in their eligibility to be insured, making the plans fitting for any companion horse.

Pet health insurance helps pet parents say yes to their veterinarian’s recommendations. Equine health insurance can benefit horse owners and their horses in the same way that dog and cat insurance benefits pet parents and their furry family

members. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance for horses is designed to lessen concern about the costs of veterinary care so that horse owners can focus on getting their horse the care they need.

Horse owners have the opportunity to select one of two plan options to best fit their individual horses’ needs. One of the plans, Colic + Accidents, includes coverage for the exam fees, diagnostics, and treatment of colic episodes and injuries and emergencies related to accidents, such as trailer-accident injuries, hoof abscesses, and toxic ingestions.

The second option horse owners can choose is Colic + Accidents + Illnesses. It covers the costs of exam fees, diagnostics, and treatment of colic episodes, accidents, and illnesses – from minor illnesses like the common cold to major illnesses like cancer.

Hereditary and congenital conditions are also included in the plan’s illness coverage.

When enrolling in an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan, horse owners can choose from a range of deductible, coverage limit, and reimbursement percentage options.

The ability to customize plans makes it even easier to find a plan that fits every horse owner’s budget.

• Deductible options of $100, $250, and $500 are available. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan deductibles are annual, so a customer only has to meet it once in a 12-month policy period.

• Horse owners can also select an annual coverage limit of $3,000, $5,000, $7,000, or $10,000. The coverage limits for ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plans reset every year.

• The reimbursement percentage choices are 90 percent, 80 percent, and 70 percent of eligible veterinary costs.

For a little more per month, horse owners can add one of three preventive care coverage options – Routine Preventive Care, Advanced Preventive Care, and Platinum Preventive Care. Reimbursements for covered preventive services are based on scheduled amounts. Covered preventive services include dental floating, annual wellness exams, a rabies or tetanus vaccination, and other things that help protect horses from getting sick.

Caring for a horse can take a lot of time.

With ASPCA Pet Heath Insurance, quoting, enrolling, and submitting claims is quick and easy. And when you spend less time keeping your horse its healthiest, you and your horse can spend more time together doing what you both love!

Don’t forget — horse owners who enroll in an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance equine plan can have their dogs and cats on the same account when they enroll them too!

If interested in getting a free quote or enrolling your horse in an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan, visit ProtectYourHorse.com or call 1-866-909-2281.

Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Waiting periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits and exclusions apply. Subject to underwriting. Terms and conditions apply. Preventive Care reimbursements are based on a schedule. Products, rates, and discounts may vary and are subject to change. Products available in NY, NJ, PA, OH, VA, & WI.

The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. Products are underwritten by the United States Fire Insurance Company, produced and administered by C&F Insurance Agency, Inc. (NPN #3974227), a Crum & Forster company. Through a licensing agreement, the ASPCA receives a royalty fee that is in exchange for use of the ASPCA’s marks and is not a charitable contribution. C&F and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United States Fire Insurance Company. Crum & Forster Pet Insurance GroupTM is a trademark of United States Fire Insurance 18 CENTRAL PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017 Company.

CrumOHIO & Forster Pet Insurance GroupTM is a trademark of United States Fire Insurance Company. The Crum & Forster group of companies is rated A (Excellent) by AM Best Company 2016.

Remembrance In Loving Memory

Cyndi

2002-2017

We adopted Cyndi when she was 1-1/2 years old in February 2004, from a veterinarian that I worked for in Ohio. She was bred to be a service dog, but had a congenital hip malformation. Cyndi had more than the typical Labrador Retriever boisterous personality! My husband immediately fell in love with her, as she instantly fell to the ground and rolled on her back upon greeting us. We gave her the nickname “Licker� because she would also kiss us all over, all the time!

Cyndi was double lucky when we adopted another Labrador, six-week old Angie from the same veterinarian, two months later. Angie was born with entropion (inverted eyelid), which required surgery at her young age. Cyndi (pictured on the left) was ever the good mother to Angie, who followed her around everywhere. They were inseparable. We lost Angie in April of 2015 at almost 12 years old.

Cyndi and Angie remain in our hearts and minds, and we have peace knowing they are waiting on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge for us!

- Carla Mader, Publisher of PetConnections

www.petconnections.pet 19

Wellness For Guardians

a pond of

T

possibility

by Sylvia Gonzalez

here is an artist inside your heart. The artist has made your body a breathing museum lined with unique and exquisite paintings. The artist celebrates you; your triumphs, your disappointments, your fears, and your endless capacity for love. The brushstrokes move with your feet, painting a path beneath them. Your path is a masterpiece; it is a one of a kind trail-nobody has the exact same brushstrokes as you do. An artist uses their creations to help them heal; to create a sense of peace that may not have been there before.

You are brought to the All Life Center. Surrounded by watercolor people, that blend together in hopes of creating a place of healing. There are works of healing that happen inside the center, with brushes of help and compassion. There is also healing outside of the center- with air that is blotted heavily with gratitude. A stone path that paints itself from the center to the dock where one can see the beauty of their journey reflected in the two swans that inhabit there.

The Ugly Duckling The swan illustrates a transformative journey. Swans begin their journey as “ugly ducklings” and grow into nurturing creatures of grace, strength, and beauty. The Swan does not fear being an “ugly duckling” for the rest of it’s life.

It recognizes the inner beauty knowing that one day- the beauty will completely overtake the ugliness. Perhaps your journey to the All Life Center has not been full of beauty, perhaps it has been frustrating, painful, and at times-maybe even ugly.

The swans float amongst the koi fish that were a donation to the center, they were generous extra bits of color painted onto the canvas of the pond. The swans and koi fish co-exist, swimming together in harmony. Koi fish bode feelings of prosperity, and opportunities. If a koi fish crosses your path, it is a confirmation that your dreams are becoming a reality. The two species of animals are a symbolic representation of finding inner beauty in what is being presented to you.

20 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017

Another unexpected guest that took residence near the pond for some time was a Blue Heron. The heron bird is known to be aggressive by nature. The blue heron is emblematic of the selfdetermination it has taken you to get wherever you may be at this moment in time. In a sense, you may have had to be aggressive in your search for healing. If you are not aggressive about finding your answers and healing, who else will be?

An entire new ecosystem has been created in the pond at the All Life Center. These creatures would unlikely live together in any other setting, but they do in our pond. In relation to this, the All Life Center is an entire ecosystem. Many people coming together to heal in one space, through different modalities of healing. Each person hosting an uninvited guest of pain, fatigue, emotional scarring etc. Each with their own journey, their own strength, and their own dreams for their life.

Let the amazing healers of this center add an ease to your brushstroke, new color in your masterpiece. You are strong like the swan, with the beauty that swims through your desire to lead your best life. Find opportunities that enrich your life and put you in alignment with your dreams like the koi fish.

The masterpiece of your body deserves it.

The All Life Center is a pond of possibility; we are glad you have found your way here.

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple Ohio Celebrating Companion Animals from the Space of Advitha—Each One is Part of the Whole.

Inner Awakening The most profound inner journey to awaken who you really are

Inner Awakening® is a 21-day spiritual transformation program in India that awakens you to your natural intelligence through yoga at all levels of body and mind. Deriving various techniques and processes from the Vedic scriptures and teachings like Shiva Agamas, Inner Awakening® offers a powerful awakening of the Kundalini Shakti, one’s inner potential, through meditation, spiritual processes, yoga, pranayama, kriyas, and the powerful Shivoham process.

How will Inner Awakening enrich my life?

The Awakening of the Kundalini energy by the power of initiation by a rare living incarnation in just 21 days gives you access to a whole new realm of living. The program works on all the basic dimensions of your life, allowing you to experience deep healing at the physical, mental and emotional levels and the ultimate experience of enlightenment.

You gain a state of deep inner peace coupled with tremendous productivity and creativity.

Becoming constantly aware of every moment provides you with astonishing clarity to fully live the life you love!

For upcoming dates: www.innerawakening.org To register: http://tiny.cc/awakening-petc

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple Ohio Aadheenam 820 Pollock Road • Delaware, OH 43015 614-571-8425 • meetup.com/Meditation-and-Yoga-for-Wellness youtube.com/lifeblissfoundation

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple is a traditional Shiva temple and the spiritual center for the teachings of enlightened master Paramahamsa Nithyananda in the Ohio region. Located on the banks of the Olentangy River, the temple is a peaceful, serene energy field designed to elevate consciousness.

The temple offers free meditation, yoga, Sattvic cooking classes, and spiritual solutions for life.

Paramahamsa Nithyananda is revered, regarded, respected and worshipped as the Avatar (living incarnation) of superconsciousness by millions across the globe. He is also the spiritual head of Mahanirvani Peetha, the oldest and largest apex body of Hinduism.

He and his global spiritual community are serving humanity by reviving the science of completion, science of Enlightenment and manifesting various extraordinary spiritual powers as per the Vedic Agamic tradition of Sanatana Hindu Dharma. He is author of 350 books, which are translated and published in 500 titles and various international languages.

His Sangha has a strong presence worldwide through numerous Temples, Aadheenams (Temple monastery complex), Gurukuls (Vedic schools), universities and goshalas (cow shelters).

His live spiritual discourses can be viewed every evening online at nithyananda.tv at 9:30 pm EST. Recorded discourses can be viewed at youtube.com/ lifeblissfoundation.

22 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JULY/AUGUST 2017