V12I4 (Aug/Sep 2010)

Animal wellness

august/september 2010

Animalwellness For a long, healthy life!

Natural eye care

Holistic support keeps him seeing

Best bounce for your buck

Living pawsitive!

Rescue Ink Featured on Ellen and Dr.Phil, these bikers look tough, but they have a soft spot for animals

animal Wellness Magazine

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exercises for your dog

help for

heatstroke Cool her off with acupressure

From kelp to kombu Edible seaweeds are good for him too

harness Happiness Tips on buying the right harness for your dog

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 4

august/september Display until Sept. 14, 2010

$5.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 4

Keep the beat Focus on heart health the ultimate reward Find out why a positive approach is so much better than dominance training

Breathing easy Getting to the root of respiratory congestion

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

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Eating the same food every day – if it’s not healthy for you, how can it be healthy for your dog?

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Monday

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Tuesday

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Wednesday

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Thursday

new!

Introducing Rotations™ – the smart, safe and effective way to feed your dog a healthy, variety-packed diet. Each box of Rotations dry dog food features three completely different all-natural and protein-first recipes neatly contained in three re-sealable bags. And unlike other brands, our Rotations recipes are designed to work together so you’ll never have to worry about diet transitions or digestive upset again.

Nutritional diversity vs. single diet feeding • • Formulated to ensure smooth digestive transition between recipes • 100% all natural holistic recipes • Alleviates oversaturation of ingredients, linked to allergies • Variety of flavors creates excitement at meal time • No corn, wheat, soy, by-products or artificial colors or addi-

www.rotationspetfood.com

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Contents August/September 2010

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features 20 Cool him off

Heat stroke can strike your dog quickly, especially on humid summer days. Learn how acupressure can help stabilize him.

24 The best reward

Does your dog have behavior problems?

Find out why dominance training doesn’t work, and why a positive approach is so much better.

28 Natural eye care

Your dog’s vision is important to his happiness and well being. Learn how to keep him seeing well using holistic and nutritional support.

36 Harnessed to safety

Does your dog pull on the leash no matter what you do? Consider getting him a harness. It’s safer for him, and easier on your arm. Here’s what to look for.

42 Food from the sea

From kelp to kombu, edible seaweeds are versatile “veggies” full of nutrition and flavor. They’re good for your animal companion too.

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46 Win-win situation

74 Riding to the rescue

54 At your service

78 Breathing easy

Offenders train shelter dogs for adoption thanks to successful prison programs that give both inmates and animals a second chance in life.

If you or someone you know is disabled and wants a dog, how do you choose the right one?

58 Have a ball!

What dog doesn’t love playing with balls?

Find out how to choose the safest and most durable products for your canine companion.

66 David Levy

Championing the benefits of quality all-natural pet foods.

70 Keep the beat Heart health is an important part of your dog or cat’s well being. Here’s what you need to know.

73 The best medicine

These preventive solutions to common health problems use oligotherapy and homeopathy as their cornerstones for healing.

They look tough, but they have soft hearts when it comes to animals. Meet Rescue Ink, a group of bikers with a mission to save animals in danger.

Respiratory congestion has numerous causes, but whatever the reason, it can make your dog or cat very uncomfortable.

Getting to the root of the problem is the first step to alleviating his symptoms.

80 A home for homeopathy

Now in its second year, this Canadian college is dedicated to teaching animal homeopathy and getting vets and homeopaths working together for the well being of dogs and cats.

83 Taking pride

When it comes to oral health for dogs and cats, this company puts its money where its mouth is.

84 8 ways to fitness

Try these fun exercise ideas for a healthy, happy and well trained dog.

20 Columns 14

Yakkity yak

32 Warm & fuzzy 62 Dr. Martin Goldstein

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86 Passages 88 Book reviews

Departments

98 Tail end

8 Editorial 12 Mail bag

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50 Animal Wellness resource guide

57 Product picks 68 The scoop 90 Ad spots 95 Classifieds 97 Events calendar animal wellness

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Get your 3rd year for $1!

Buy a 2-year subscription to Animal Wellness Magazine for $34 US ($44 CAN) and get the 3rd year for only $1!

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$

for the 3rd year

Topics include: disease prevention natural diets and nutrition natural health care

product recommendations integrative Vet Q & A gentle training, and so much more!

Volume 12 Issue 4

Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Meaghan McGowan Graphic Design Intern: Deanna Hall Cover Photography: National Geographic Channel Tail End Illustration: Leanne Rosborough Columnists & Contributing Writers Katharine Lark Chrisley, NHC, RM Audi Donamor Julie Dunford Martin Goldstein, DVM Sara Jackson Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Barb Nefer Deborah Rubin Fields Jennifer Scalia Shirley Scott Christina Shusterich, BA, CBC Amy Snow Alana Stevenson Ron Sullivan Brandi-Ann Uyemura Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Lesia Wright Circulation & Communications Manager: Jamie Conroy Operations Director: John Allan IT Manager: Rick McMaster Administrative Assistant: Libby Sinden

Call or go online today – your animals will thank you!

1-866-764-1212

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www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

On the cover photograph by:

National Geographic Channel Joe Panz is the founder of Rescue Ink, and a man with a mission. He and his fellow tattooed biker buddies are dedicated to saving animals from abusive and dangerous situations. The New Yorkbased rescue group has attracted a lot of media attention lately – they’ve appeared on Dr. Phil and Ellen and feature in a new National Geographic program, Rescue Ink Unleashed.

For the full story, turn to page 74.

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Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 107 Hunter St. East, Unit 201 Peterborough, ON, Canada K9H 1G7.

We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned.

We reserve the right to publish all letters received.

Email your articles to: jamie@redstonemediagroup.com.

Advertising Sales National Sales Manager: Lesley Nicholson, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 lesley@redstonemediagroup.com

Advertising Sales Cont...

Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue is $19.00 in the U.S. and $24.00 in Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 US Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 CDN Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 107 Hunter St. E., Unit 201. Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9H 1G7 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products or services advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers.

Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

Dealer Inquiries Welcome: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2010. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: July 2010.

Improving the lives of animals... one reader at a time.

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editorial The right stuff G

rowing up, our family dog was a Bichon Frise. We raised her from a pup and enthusiastically taught her everything she needed to know to be the polite, easy-tomanage dog that she was. It wasn’t until I met my husbandto-be, Tim, and his not-so-well-trained Siberian husky, Sabrina, that I understood the true importance of training.

Tim rescued Sabrina when she was two years old. Until then she had been pretty much chained up outside all day and brought into the house at night, where she would wreak havoc doing laps around the furniture. When her family finally decided she was more than they could handle, Tim stepped in and adopted her. You can only imagine what kind of manners she had. Every time he put a leash on her, she’d sink down on her haunches and kick into sled dog mode. She was even worse with me, but I was determined.

I figured part of the problem was that she hadn’t been getting enough exercise so I decided to take her running with me. We got into a routine. For the first mile, we’d sprint along the boardwalk, with Sabrina pulling me like a kite struggling to get airborne. The next mile would be pure heaven, as she settled into a more human pace I actually enjoyed. The last mile would see me far out in front, with Sabrina lagging behind to sniff any fencepost, light standard or stray piece of litter she might pass. By the end of it, we were both exhausted but very satisfied, and it wasn’t too long before Sabrina settled into a more even keeled pace for the entire three miles.

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From that point on, she was a dream to walk, no matter who was at the end of the leash. It was a positive, though maybe unconventional, training experience for us both, and it made a believer of me that positive methods work when you have the right stuff. In this case, it was the combination of positive training and exercise that made all the difference. Sabrina and I were like our own mini-pack racing over the tundra and it created a deep, life-long bond between us.

In this, our training and fitness issue, I hope you’ll be inspired by some of the creative ideas and approaches.

There’s an excellent article on harnesses, for instance – information I could have used back when I started running with Sabrina! I now have harnesses for both Sasha, our husky/shepherd, and Muffie, our Shih tzu/ poodle mix, since these two rescues are also sadly lacking in walking etiquette. There’s also a great piece on how to choose the right ball for your canine buddy and eight fun exercise ideas for you and your bud. Of course, we’ve rounded out this issue with the latest articles on nutrition and health as well as some amazing rescue stories. So put up your feet and enjoy but don’t get too comfortable – you’ll want to get out with your four-legged companions as soon as you’re done!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

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contributors

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1. Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the authors of The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure and Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure.

They own Tallgrass Publishers, which offers meridian charts for dogs and cats, manuals and DVDs, including a new Introduction to Canine Acupressure Training DVD. They are also the founders of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute (animalacupressure.com), which offers hands-on and online training courses worldwide, including a Practitioner Certification Program. For their tips on using acupressure for heat stroke, see page 20.

2.Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier authored the Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics. His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. In this issue (page 70), he looks at heart disease in animals.

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3.Audi Donamor has been creating special needs diets for cats and dogs for a long time. Following the loss of her beloved golden retriever, Blues, she founded The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund through the University of Guelph’s Pet Trust. She is the only two-time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril Kennel Trophy for the Human/Animal Bond. Try her healthy sea vegetable recipes on page 42.

4. Sara Jackson lives on a 12-acre farm in American Canyon, just outside the Napa Valley. She is a graduate of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and has a BFA in Screenwriting. She’s a freelance writer and has written a number of short stories, two scripts and a book called Jack’s Dreams Come To Life (sarajacksonwriter.com). In this issue (page 58), she discusses the best balls for dogs to play with.

5. Barbara Nefer is an animal lover and freelance writer living in Celebration, Florida. She shares her life with three cats, two horses, and a Quaker parrot.

For her article on Rescue Ink, a gang of bikers dedicated to animal welfare, check out page 74.

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6. Shirley Scott is an animal communicator and clairvoyant in Walla Walla, Washington, and recently opened The Rocky Mountain Animal Rescue Ranch. To learn more, visit animaltalkhealing.com or animalrescueranch.com. In this edition, she talks about the growing trend of dog training programs in prisons – page 46.

7. Deborah Rubin Fields is an educational writer based in Israel. She has worked as both a medical and special education social worker and as a college instructor. Her first ebook Take a Peek Inside: A Child’s Guide to Radiology Exams was recently launched on the internet. She is married with four children. Turn to page 54 for her advice on choosing the right dog if you’re disabled.

8. Julie Dunford is passionate about holistic animal health, new training tactics, and naturalistic views on animal care. She spends as much time as possible outdoors with her partner and her French bulldog, enjoying nature in any season.

For her article on the advantages of using a harness for your dog, see page 36.

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9. Alana Stevenson is a professional Dog and Cat Behaviorist and Humane Dog Trainer, and the author of The Right Way the First Time: Teaching Your Dog Kindly and Humanely. She offers professional assistance over the phone and can be contacted at AlanaStevenson.com. On page 24, Alana reveals why dominance training doesn’t work.

10. Christina Shusterich is a certified Dog Trainer, Canine Behavior Counselor and Canine Behavior Specialist who has

devoted herself to the study, techniques and experiences most effective in understanding, training and resolving behavior problems in animals, and to helping people to effectively communicate with their animals. See page 84 for Christina’s eight exercise ideas for dogs.

horses and people through publications and integrative organic models that heal.

She is also the author of The Well Being of Pets and Companions, a manual of health and harmony for all species (rosedogbookstore.com). Turn to page 28 for Katharine’s article on natural eye care.

11. Katharine Lark Chrisley is a Natural Health Consultant, Veterinary Assistant, Reiki Master Teacher, and the owner of Dharmahorse (naturalpaths.org), which promotes the holistic health of dogs,

12. Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she’s not writing, she works as a pet sitter. For this edition, she visits the College of Animal Homeopathic Medicine in Vancouver – turn to page 80.

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mail bag Thanks to your magazine and Dr. Goldstein’s Q&A, I discovered a holistic approach to treating seasonal allergies that has worked wonders.

I purchased his book The Nature of Animal Healing and read about natural hydrocortisone. This has been a lifesaver for my female mastiff who suffered from horrible seasonal allergies and only could find relief from prednisone. But I was so worried about the side effects. The natural hydrocortisone has been as effective as prednisone and has zero side effects. This is the second season using it.

This product also helped to make our Lab/Samoyed girl more comfortable in her final months before she died from cancer. Her heart had become enlarged and her liver was involved so the vet didn’t want to prescribe prednisone for the inflammation because of liver impact. The natural hydrocortisone did the trick. It allowed us to have a few more months to say goodbye without her suffering.

Bless you and thank you Dr. Goldstein and Animal Wellness!

Bill Lenway, via email

Editor’s note: This is the kind of story that makes our day! Kudos to you for searching for something beyond prednisone to help your dogs. While it’s helpful for acute conditions, long term use can definitely result in unwanted side effects.

My one-year-old Chihuahua gnawed through the phone cable while I was on the phone with my mother. Because I was involved in the conversation, I didn’t feed my dog at the usual time. He looked offended for the rest of the evening and stayed in a separate room for the night. This made me feel so guilty I couldn’t get to sleep. I think these little ones have a special gift of getting whatever they want whenever they want! Who could guess?

Catherine Krugovaya via email

Editor’s note: Most animal lovers soon learn that dogs and cats are like small children when they want something, but don’t like to wait for it!

I read “Once in A Lifetime Dog” (June/July) through my tears as my dog Winnie also contracted this illness in February. My gut told me she wasn’t feeling well, and when her stools became dark and smelled like blood, I rushed her to my emergency vet’s office.

They were surprised the platelet count was only 7000 (which is considered critical) because she looked so healthy. She responded well to the Prednisone, and we are in the process of weaning her off of it. The vet told me we were actually lucky that she was bleeding into her GI tract which caused me to notice the difference in her stool. Dogs can also bleed into the brain or lungs and the symptoms can be less noticeable.

One thing I wanted to tell your readers to look for is a sign that their pet is bleeding internally: a “petechia” is a small red or purple spot on the body that signals hemorrhaging of the small capillaries. I noticed a spot on her interior thigh two months before the symptoms worsened, but thought it was only a minor insect bite. Also, if your instincts are telling you something isn’t quite right with your pet, don’t dismiss it too quickly. I thank my lucky stars every day my beloved Winnie is still with me every day. (Winnie was featured in “Tail End” in your Aug/Sept 2009 issue.)

Shelley Graves via email

Editor’s note: Acting quickly and getting an animal to an emergency vet at the first sign of serious trouble, as you did, can often mean the difference between life and death. We’re pleased that Winnie is doing better now!

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I was very interested in your article “Second chance” in the Feb/Mar issue. When I worked at shelters, people often brought in pets who had belonged to a deceased relative. I also recently heard of two dogs who died of starvation because their owner, who lived alone, had a stroke and they were overlooked when he was taken unconscious to hospital.

This could happen to any of us, regardless of our age, and we need to prepare while we are well. I have put together a two-sided form that people can keep on their fridge. Besides your medical history, and your pet’s, it has room for several contact people that you have prearranged to take your pet in case of emergency or your death.

Let’s have protection for millions of these precious creatures who add so much to our lives.

Hazel Mortensen Solvang, CA

Editor’s note: Thanks for a great idea! Readers can download this form from our website at animalwellnessmagazine.com under the Resources section.

I have just discovered your magazine, and am quite impressed.

I would like, however, to draw your attention to the cover image of your April/May issue, showing a happy pup bounding along with what appears to be a tennis ball in his mouth.

If you are unaware, tennis balls are extremely hazardous to an animal’s teeth, especially a dog’s, as they like to chew on them. The surface compound of a tennis ball is comprised of an assortment of materials that are abrasive, and with continued grabbing and chewing, will wear the teeth down very quickly, as though they had been attacked with a file.

I speak from experience, as I used to allow our miniature Eskimo to play with tennis balls, until a close inspection of her teeth, and a visit to the dentist, confirmed what I have just told you.

Fortunately, we noticed the damage in time to save her teeth, but have heard of others who were not so fortunate.

I offer this in the spirit of sharing for the protection of our wonderful fourlegged family members, and hope that you will pass the info along.

via

Wayne Paquin email

Editor’s note: Tennis balls have long been a

favorite toy choice for dogs, and are okay for occasional play, but you’re right that they can be hard on a dog’s teeth with long term use. For more information on how to choose a safe ball for your dog to play with, turn to page 58. animal wellness

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yakkity yak Rise to glory

Team players

Hector had a nasty start to life – he was one of many pit bulls rescued during the Michael Vick animal cruelty case three years ago. Thanks to lots of loving care, rehabilitation and training, Hector is now a Certified Therapy Dog and AKC Canine Good Citizen. He was also recently the recipient of a Community Service in Humane Education Award from the Brooklyn Law School Animal Legal Defense Fund in Brooklyn, New York. The award recognizes Hector’s remarkable work in teaching children and communities the importance of preventing cruelty to animals, specifically pit bulls. Amazing what some TLC can do!

Many people working together can get a lot accomplished. In response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita five years ago, five animal organizations including IFAW, HSUS and ASPCA collaborated to form the Gulf Coast Spay/Neuter Recovery Project. To date, the project has spayed and neutered more than 70,000 dogs and cats in affected areas of Louisiana and Mississippi, significantly reducing the problem of homeless animals in the region.

“What this collaboration has accomplished is unprecedented, in that it’s the first time that five national organizations have come together on a project at this level,” said Susan Sampey of the Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society.

The Humane Society of South Mississippi’s spay/neuter clinic.

Hector obviously has a sense of humor! Here he bonds with a student friend.

Star-studded adoption event May 22 was a special day for the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals. It marked the organization’s first Adoptapalooza, which was a huge success.

Dozens of adoptable dogs and cats took Washington Square Park by storm, winning the hearts of animal-loving New Yorkers. Approximately 50 animals found loving new homes.

A number of celebrities stopped by during the day, including actor Zach Braff (Scrubs); Tinsley Mortimer, (High Society); Maria Sansone, host of LX New York’s “Maria’s Pet Project”; and Prince Lorenzo Borghese (The Bachelor, Season 9). animalalliancenyc.org

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Avoid sharp metal or plastic lawn edging products – they can cut your dog or cat’s feet.

Stepping out Cancer is the number one cause of death in dogs over the age of two, according to the Morris Animal Foundation. To help raise awareness and money for canine cancer research, animal lifestyle coach and host of PBS’s Animal Attractions TV, Megan Blake, and her dog Smiley, joined Luke Robinson and his two great Pyrenees on the last leg of his 2,000-mile walking journey from Texas to Massachusetts.

Luke’s “2 Dogs 2,000 Miles” trek was inspired after the death of one of his beloved dogs. He and “the boys” had been on the road for about two years when Megan joined them for the last leg of the journey in April. She rejoined the team again on June 18, when Luke and his dogs ended their walk in Boston. “Having lost two dogs to cancer, this cause is very near and dear to me,” says Megan. “I plan to continue doing whatever I can to support Luke.” 2dogs2000miles.org

Luke, Megan and their canine friends get ready to set out on the last leg of the journey.

Megan and Smiley pass through an historic town. Smiley makes friends with Hudson. animal wellness

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yakkity yak Parents plus

Disaster response

When Sally Benson of Grand Junction, Colorado, lapsed into a diabetic coma in 2006, her German pinscher Thor came to her rescue by dialing 911, a task Sally had taught him years earlier.

In 2009, when Thor was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, Sally knew she had to repay him.

In the wake of the massive Gulf Coast oil spill, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is granting $15,000 to the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation (TVMF).

The grant will be used to develop curriculum and provide training to certify Rapid Response Animal Emergency Re-entry Teams who will be able to respond quickly to animal disasters in the Texas Gulf region.

TVMF will recruit professionals in veterinary medicine, law enforcement and animal sheltering to receive training in disaster zone assessment, animal care and handling methods, and disaster response procedures. aspca.org

Sally was just one animal guardian recognized by Veterinary Pet Insurance during their National Pet Parent’s Day on April 25. “I couldn’t put my dog down,” she says. “I decided to do everything I could do to help him. He saved my life, so I saved his life.” Today, Thor is cancer free. Three other animal parents were also honored by the company

Just for pups Puppies need lots of care and love in order to become healthy, happy dogs. Best Friends Animal Society recently opened the new Val’s Puppy Care Center in Kanab, Utah. The facility is a safe haven for orphaned pups and expectant dogs rescued from puppy mills, hoarders, abusive situations or abandonment. The center can accommodate up to 240 puppies and mother dogs. bestfriends.org

Thanks to Sally’s devotion, Thor is now cancer free.

Cedar makes a great flea and tick repellent.

Sea dogs The dog has been “man’s best friend” for centuries, not just on land, but at sea too. Until October 11, the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum in Nantucket, Massachusetts is home to a unique exhibition: “Sea Dogs! Great Tails of the Sea”. Through paintings, vintage photographs, artifacts, family activities and more, the exhibition celebrates lifesaving dogs, US Coast Guard dogs, fishing dogs, lighthouse dogs and favourite canine mascots through the ages. nantucketshipwreck.org

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HOLLYWOOD GOES TO THE DOGS

Photos: © Richard Guaty

On June 4 and 5, TV and film personalities attended Buddha Bark’s WonderPark Event in Hollywood to check out the latest in holistic health care solutions for canines. The event featured doggie fashion shows hosted

by TV personalities Hal Sparks and Kate Linder, dog agility demonstrations, an interactive dog park, readings by animal communicators, teeth cleaning and grooming, massage for people and dogs, gourmet vegan cuisine, natural beverages and dog treats. Other attending stars included actor Eric Roberts, Kristin Bauer (True Blood), Linda Blair, feature film start Brandon Molale and Flipping Out’s Jeff Lewis and Jenni Pulos. buddhabark.com

From top left: Joey King (Ramona and Beezus) with Angel; Laura Nativo, Alana Curry and Nicholle Tom; Pomeranians Bella Luna and Bobby Gorgeous are dressed to the nines.

It’s normal People who grieve over the loss of a dog or cat sometimes wonder if their feelings are normal. They are, according to a recent issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter. The death of an animal companion can trigger a grieving process similar to what happens after the loss of a close friend or family member. Although little research has been done about grief after the loss of an animal, the few studies suggest the grieving process can go on for weeks or months. One study showed that grief and sadness can last for at least six months. health.harvard.edu animal wellness

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Nutro® Natural Choice® Small Breed Dog Food provides the ideal energy balance for your ambitious little

friend. Made with the finest ingredients, including our DNAdvantage Blend™ formula that supports natural immune system defenses. Along with a unique, easy to chew kibble shape to help reduce plaque.

Nutro® products are available exclusively at pet specialty stores.

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TheNutroCompany.com

®/™ Trademarks © The Nutro Company 2010 Patent pending

NATURE KNOWS BEST ™

animal wellness

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Cool

him off

Heat stroke can strike your dog quickly, especially on humid summer days. Learn how acupressure can help stabilize him.

by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

I

t can happen in a flash and it doesn’t even have to be that hot out. Your dog can be fine one minute, gleefully running in the midday sun – then suddenly he’s frantically panting and progressing towards heat stroke.

those with a large body mass, very young puppies and older dogs. Canines with short, flat noses (brachycephalic) such as boxers, mastiffs, Pekinese and bulldogs are also susceptible.

Dogs have very limited ways of ridding themselves of body heat. They do not have sweat glands on their bodies like we do. They expel heat primarily through the respiratory system, and some from small sweat glands in their foot pads and on their noses. Dogs most at risk for heat exhaustion are heavy coated or overweight dogs,

It’s important to realize, however, that any dog can experience heat stroke when the weather’s hot, especially if the humidity is high. It is up to you to be conscientious about keeping your dog cool, hydrated and well ventilated, and to avoid vigorous exercise on hot and muggy days.

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PLANT ENZYMES

& PROBIOTICS

Danger signs Heat stroke occurs when a dog’s body can no longer control its own heat. Indicators tend to follow a progression from mild to severe: • Loud, frantic panting • Temperature over 103°F • Elevated heart rate • Agitation • Excessive, frothy salivation • Dark purple gums • Vomiting • Diarrhea

Supplement for Dogs & Cats

• Muscle cramping • Seizure-like tremors • Weakness • Dazed and disoriented • Loss of balance • Collapse • Loss of consciousness • Death

Unfortunately, the outcome of severe heat stroke is usually not good. If the dog does survive, he will most likely sustain permanent organ and even brain damage. It’s important to do what you can to prevent heat exhaustion by avoiding exertion on hot days and making sure your dog has access to shade and fresh water. But heat stroke can still happen inadvertently: here’s what to do if it does.

The cooling process If a dog’s body temperature edges near or above 103ºF, he has entered the danger zone. (The normal temperature for a dog is 100°F to 102.5ºF.) Stop all activity, offer fresh water, wet the dog down with cool water and allow him to rest in a breezy, shaded area if you are outside. If you’re inside, put him in front of a fan or in air conditioning. Evaporative cooling is a good way to help your dog bring down his body temperature.

Applying ice or extremely cold water while cooling a dog is not recommended.

The extreme cold can cause his skin to contract and not allow the heat to escape. Covering the dog with a wet towel can also capture body heat.

An all natural digestive aid with plant enzymes and probiotics, this product assists in the digestion and absorption of nutrients which are necessary to maintain your pet’s good health. Animal Essentials’ Plant Enzymes & Probiotics relieves the extra burden placed on the digestive system by breaking down fats, carbohydrates, cellulose and protein.

animalessentials.com

Once you have begun the cool-down process, you can stimulate specific acupressure points (also called acupoints) to enhance the dog’s ability to expel body heat. While doing so, do not confine the dog, and continue to provide ventilation. Take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible to make sure no internal damage has occurred.

If the dog’s temperature goes over 105°F, he is in grave danger and immediate veterinary care is necessary. Quickly follow this cooling process: wet the dog completely and spray cool water on his neck and groin, where blood vessels are superficial. While en route to the emergency veterinary clinic, stimulate the following acupressure points to increase your dog’s capacity to release heat. animal wellness

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ACUPOINTS FOR HEATSTROKE

Acupoints for releasing body heat These acupoints have been specifically selected to help the dog release internal body heat. They also support respiratory function and assist in calming the animal.

Governing Vessel 14 (GV 14) – commonly used to clear heat from the entire body. Located on the midline of the dog at the base of the neck in front of the shoulder blades (scapula).

Governing Vessel 20 (GV20) – clears heat, thus helping the dog release heat. It also clears and calms the dog’s mind. Will help reduce his anxiety while he struggles to cool down. GV 20 is located at the very top of the dog’s head, on the midline between his ears.

Liver 2 (Liv 2) – a known acupoint for cooling blood heat and calming the heart. It’s on the hind paws right on top of the webbing between the first and second digits (seen from the medial, or inside).

Lung 9 (Lu 9) – a key acupressure point that supports lung function, clears heat and promotes the vital energy of the

All the attributes of Lung 9 can greatly benefit a dog suffering from any level of heat stroke.

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To be most effective in cooling and helping the dog breathe, lightly scratch each of these acupoints using your index and middle fingers. arteries. All the attributes of Lung 9 can greatly benefit a dog suffering from any level of heat stroke. This point is located on the forelimbs, just above the wrist on the inside, or medial aspect, toward the front of the leg.

To be most effective in cooling and helping the dog breathe, lightly scratch each of these acupoints using your index and middle fingers. Have the hand that is not scratching the point rest gently and comfortably on the dog’s body. If at any time he moves away or seems in more distress, discontinue the acupressure. Follow your vet’s recommendations.

During the hot summer months, watch for the mildest signs that your dog is overheating. Remember to wet him down and keep him in the shade and well ventilated at the first indication he is getting too hot. Acupressure will help bring his heat level down more quickly, and support his health.

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The best

reward Does your dog have behavior problems? Find out why dominance training doesn’t work, and why a positive approach is so much better.

by Alana Stevenson

Y

ou’ve heard the term “positive training”. But what exactly does it mean? Positive trainers are opposed to the dominance/submission approach still used by many trainers. They often work with fearful and reactive dogs, and implement behavior modification to help people humanely and successfully resolve their dogs’ behavioral problems.

a massage or a kiss are all examples of rewards. When you reward your dog for performing a behavior, he will want to repeat that behavior. By repeating it, he will get very good at practicing it. He will then exhibit that behavior regularly without you having to reinforce it so often.

As a positive trainer myself, I am frequently asked how to establish a “boss” or “alpha” role over a dog. Instead of teaching people to “dominate” their dogs, however, I teach them to understand how dogs learn, and how to reinforce and reward wanted behaviors.

Rewards take priority

Positive training is very different from the dominance/ submission approach. When people try to dominate their dogs, they often employ harmful techniques that can be quite confrontational. People often try to be the “boss” by yanking and jerking the dog. Prong, choke, and shock collars, as well as pulling on a dog’s leash, are all standard methods used by those following a dominance approach.

Positive training means rewarding your dog for performing a behavior you desire. When your dog exhibits a behavior you like, you show him you appreciate that behavior by rewarding him. A reward is anything your dog enjoys. Food, praise, throwing a ball, playing tug or running, or giving him

• Choke collars, as their name implies, “choke” the animal.

They can damage the trachea and spine, and constrict a dog’s air passages. The choke collar teaches nothing. It simply punishes.

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The problem with dominance

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Be wary of breed specific trainers, such as those training German shepherds, dobermans and rottweilers. There is a machismo quality to these breeds, and often the trainers are very heavy-handed.

• The prong collar pinches the dog. It inhibits his behavior through pain and discomfort. This does not teach the dog how to behave or what to do in a positive way.

may have created it. Therefore, “dominance” is not a useful term to help you to understand your dog or his motives.

• Shock collars generate pain and instill fear. If I used an electric current to shock somebody into learning math, it wouldn’t be very pleasant or productive, especially for the learner. Likewise, shocking a dog to sit, come or stay is just as inappropriate.

I often get asked, “Why can’t I just say ‘no’?” My answer is simple. The word “no” gives no instruction. It’s meaningless unless it connotes disapproval through voice and mannerism. Often, people are too late to intervene, making their reprimands useless. If a person comes across as adversarial enough, the dog may defer temporarily by inhibiting his behavior. But until he is taught a new way of behaving – in other words, another behavior to replace the unwanted one – the unwanted behavior will continue. It’s more effective to teach wanted behaviors early on, and avoid creating behavioral problems, than it is to reprimand your dog for doing things you dislike.

All these training collars are based on pain and punishment.

Their use intensifies fear and aggression, makes problem behaviors worse, damages the relationship between dogs and people, and makes anxious dogs more anxious.

Animals do not learn well under stress. Yanking or jerking a dog’s neck or shocking him into “submission” will make him fearful, shy or avoidant. This style of training is no fun for the dog or the person, and sets up a confrontation when there is no need for one.

The problem with a dominance/submission approach is that all the methods and tools used are corrective or punitive. It implies the dog will not succeed without repeated corrections. It sets him up for failure from the beginning. The dog is punished before he even knows what is expected of him. Because he does not understand what the trainer wants, the dog does not initially perform the desired behavior. He is then labeled as stubborn, stupid or dominant. Rarely do positive, compassionate trainers label dogs or set them up for failure.

Escaping definition Few people know what dominance or being “alpha” really means. Even among researchers, the word “dominance” needs to be clearly defined. The meaning will vary depending on whom you are speaking to or how he or she defines it. “Dominance” is a label. It does not explain how a dog is behaving, what he is doing, or any of the triggers that may cause him to react. Nor does it explain the precursors to a behavior. It does not reveal how a person may be reinforcing her dog’s behavior or how she

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Saying “no” doesn’t help

Finding a good trainer There aren’t any universal standards or credentials for dog trainers. Finding a trainer who uses positive methods should be a number one priority. Years of experience are not as important as the methods he or she uses. Truly experienced positive trainers rarely use the words “alpha” or “dominance”. Humane trainers will not use choke, pinch or shock collars. Be wary of breed specific trainers, such as those training German shepherds, dobermans and rottweilers. There is a machismo quality to these breeds, and often the trainers are very heavy-handed.

A positive trainer can teach any breed. Positive training works for all dogs and the teaching and training strategies are universal. Dogs don’t defy learning theory. Good trainers will use food or other rewards, flat collars or harnesses, and will teach you to reward wanted behaviors and to ignore, manage or redirect unwanted behaviors and turn them into desired ones.

Reward your dog for good behaviors. Set him up for success and manage problems early on. Teach your dog humanely, and you’ll both benefit. After all, a happy, well-adjusted dog is the best reward of all.

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Natural eye care Your dog’s vision is important to his happiness and well being.

Learn how to keep him seeing well using holistic and nutritional support.

by Katharine Lark Chrisley, NHC, RM

I

t’s easy to take sight for granted – unless something happens to damage it. Although your dog has a much better sense of hearing and smell than you do, he also relies heavily on vision to navigate the world. That’s why it’s vital to include your dog’s eyes in his wellness program.

Take a close look at your dog’s eyes on a regular basis to check for any sign of a problem. If his eyes are healthy, they’ll have a good, clear “coating” over them. The pupils

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will be shiny and dark and of equal size. They should constrict with light, and dilate when the light is removed.

The “sclera” around the eye should be pinkish white.

If it’s all white, it signals anemia. Yellow indicates severe liver trouble (jaundice), while a red sclera means possible fever, overexertion or poisoning (with other, severe symptoms). If it’s murky and oddly colored, it shows infection.

Tear discharge should be clear and thin. Any thick, yellow or green discharge could mean an infection. A white, opaque discharge can also signal infection or be a reaction to a blow. Blood in the eye is an emergency – seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Healthy eyesight and protection from injury and infection depend on good nutritional support and preventive measures – see the table on page 30 for a list of nutrients that are good for canine eye health. Be sure to talk to a holistic or integrative vet before introducing any new herb, supplement or remedy to your dog’s diet.

Additional tips

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Keep your dog’s environment safe to avoid injuries to his eyes. Look at the world from his viewpoint. Trim and remove low branches in the yard, watch for sharp objects at canine eye level, keep chemicals out of his reach, control dust in the environment and do not use chemical floor and carpet cleaners or pesticides.

A vitamin B2 deficiency can cause uveitis, which leads to pain and blindness.

1-877-284-0350

2

Externally cleansing a dog’s eye can be done with sterile cotton soaked with a clean saline solution – a pinch of pure sea salt in one cup of pure warm water.

3

Make soothing drops for irritated eyes using one teaspoon of goldenseal leaf (the root is too strong!) and one teaspoon of pure rose petals in two cups of water just off the boil. Add a pinch of sea salt to make it isotonic. Steep for 15 minutes, cool and strain very well. This solution will keep in the fridge for seven days.

Always warm the liquid slightly before use.

Preserving your dog’s vision and eye health is easy if you take the right steps. Regularly check his eyes for potential problems, and take him to the vet promptly if something doesn’t look right. Eliminate potential hazards in and around the house and nourish him with eye-healthy foods and herbs. www.NaturalK9Supplies.com animal wellness

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Herbs*

Vitamins**

Adding in capsule or powder form to a dog’s daily meal can help prevent cataracts.

Bilberry

Helps with the eye’s ability to focus (aids with night vision).

Hawthorn

Added to moistened meals, it strengthens the circulatory system and keeps capillaries in the eyes from breaking and leaking.

Gotu kola

Heals and strengthens the brain, including the optical centers and receivers.

Blueberry

Good for fluid balance, helping to keep pressures normal in the eyes.

Vitamin A

Used by the body to maintain and rebuild tissues, especially in the eyes, sinuses and throat.

Founds in fish and fish oils, carrots (I give them raw to my dogs as chew treats), eggs, spinach, alfalfa and other brightly colored vegetables.

Vitamin B2

Essential to eyesight. A deficiency can cause uveitis, which leads to pain and blindness. Found in yeast extracts, lentils, kale and bananas.

Vitamin C

Minerals

Amino acids

Homeopathic remedies***

Magnesium

Supports eye health because it is essential for nerve function; to allow focusing and signals from the eye, nerve endings must “fire” properly. Found in green leafy veggies, apples and bananas.

Zinc

Supports the B vitamins. Essential to eyesight.

Found in seeds, lentils and green vegetables.

Selenium

Maintains tissue elasticity. Essential to eyesight.

Found in pumpkin seeds, whole grains, yeast and kale.

Lysine and tryptophan

Help prevent cataract formation. Found in meats, healthy oils (fish and flaxseed) and dairy products.

Euphrasia officinalis

Heals runny eyes, mucus in the eye, conjunctivitis, itchy eyes and eyes irritated by sunlight.

Symphytum officinalis

An unequalled remedy for the head and eye.

I use it a lot right after any suspected blow to the head.

Silicea (silica)

A good choice for eye health when there’s a discharge because of possible objects (sand, pollen, etc.) that have not penetrated the surface.

*The herbs listed in this table are all “food” for the eyes. **By feeding your dog a variety of fresh foods, his body can maintain healthy eyes and repair problems through internal tissue support. A holistic health care practitioner can provide dosing guidelines to restore any deficiencies of specific nutrients.

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A detoxifier that strengthens capillary walls and helps the body and eyes fight infection. Found in parsley, broccoli and peas.

***Most homeopathic remedies are available in pellet or pill form and are of “X” potency (tenths) or “C” potency (hundredths). The C’s are more potent than the X’s. For chronic conditions, use 6X or 6C every two to four hours for two days, then three times daily for three days. In acute conditions, you can use a 30X or 30C remedy every four hours for a total of three doses. In very serious conditions, use the remedy every five to 15 minutes for

Nutrients for canine eye health

Eyebright

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warm & Fuzzy

Kayaking with Bella

by Jennifer Scalia

W

e finally made it! For the first time ever, my dog Bella was going to hit the river with me for a kayaking adventure. It was a warm, cloudless day when I packed her special safety vest, bundled her into the car and headed out to spend a day in nature.

and I watched tiny schools of fish swim past my feet.

Bella would go in just deep enough to soak her legs and that was brave enough, considering she’s a Lhaso Apso and not very big. The long hair on her tail was drenched and she was quite a sight!

Before settling her on the kayak, we went for a dip in the crystal clear water, marveling at the many different rock formations beneath us. The water’s chill felt refreshing

When we began our river trip, we had a few minor difficulties to start. I first placed Bella on the kayak near my feet, but that made for some very unstable paddling,

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Bella’s “step-sister” Sophia sometimes joins the author on her river trips.

especially as we were traveling upstream. I needed to go back and try a new approach. This time I put Bella on the back of the kayak, facing forward. We were off!

It felt good, although I could have used some help. It was apparent Bella was just there for the ride and to be charming, nothing more!

I paddled quickly, hoping for a slower current ahead to rest my arms. On the way, we passed a river bank animal wellness

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She was good natured about wearing her safety vest, and seemed curiously pleased with her surroundings. populated with highly “lit” individuals. “Hey, you’re going the wrong way!” they shouted, and “That dog has a life vest on, ha ha!” I tried to ignore their unflattering comments but then along came their children. Now we had the additional obstacle of screaming little ones with high powered water guns. It was clearly not going to be easy to get to a calmer place.

As we tried to make progress, Bella chose to sit backwards on the kayak, allowing her to lie down and be closer to the water. I tried to be playful with the children and gave a “ha-ha” shout in return to their antics. We kept going till we finally became little dots in their vision. If only Bella

Bella, complete with safety vest, prefers sitting in the back of the kayak.

could have given them a paw salute!

At last, we reached an area of natural scenery and peace.

The current became placid. Turtles swam near the kayak and ducked their heads under water when they found Bella’s curious nose too close for comfort. Families of turtles bathed in the sun on fallen trees. Some of the babies sat on their mamas, enjoying an extra lift to the sun’s rays.

Soon after, a large bass swam by, then a little dead sun perch rose from the water. I used my paddle to place her on the kayak so Bella and I could get a better look at her vibrant colors. I noticed her sharp little teeth. Bella came close to having the little finned discovery as an afternoon treat before I returned the fish to the water.

Later, we hit a small and pleasant current so I decided to stop and take in the melody of the water. I watched a river otter swim across the river with flexible ease and brave persistence.

As I stood in the current and enjoyed the water around my legs and feet, Bella was content to sniff the sand and rocks. Then she sat serenely near the water with what I call her “happy pant”. I felt like I was part of the river and realized Bella and I were connected by what we were experiencing. We had to be still like the turtles to feel it. We had to be steadfast like the otter to get through the current and past the noisy campers to reach this place of peace.

When kayaking, I am so close to nature I can feel my true spirit. Bella’s step-sister Sophia sometimes comes along, but I wanted Bella to feel closer to her true nature too, away from our stressful city life. I enjoyed her company on this river trip. She was good natured about wearing her safety vest, and seemed curiously pleased with her surroundings.

Jennifer encourages Sophia to try out her life vest.

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Enjoying our destination was well worth the trials we’d gone through to get here. Just like the turtles, fish and otters, Bella and I were together and at one with nature.

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Harnessed to safety Does your dog pull on the leash no matter what you do? Consider getting him a harness. It’s safer for him, and easier on your arm.

Here’s what to look for.

by Julie Dunford

K

elly’s dog is nearly seven years old, and has pulled on the leash since puppyhood. “I’ve tried everything to get him to heel, but nothing seems to work,” she says.

“I figure he’ll be a puller all his life, so I guess I’m just going to have to put up with it.”

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Dogs pull on their leashes for many reasons. The main one is that tugging, towing, hauling and pulling – while we hang on for dear life – gets them where they want to go. Despite our best efforts, many dogs are stronger than our efforts to restrain them, which means pulling usually works for them

no matter what we try. But dogs are supposed to be “man’s best friend”, not “man’s road to shoulder pain”. So what’s the solution?

First, realize that following your dog as he heads to the nearest hydrant or bush actually rewards him for dragging you to the source of his desire. The problem is that most people worry about their dogs choking themselves if they refuse to comply with the pulling. Their concern is justified, considering the pressure such pulling puts on the dog’s airway. The canine trachea and esophagus aren’t meant to endure that kind of stress. Not that the danger will stop the dog from doing it anyway, of course!

With patience and time, many dogs can be trained not to pull. But others, like Kelly’s, seem to forget all their training once they’re out on the leash and distracted by all the sights, sounds and smells of the great outdoors. If your dog is one of these,

consider purchasing him a harness.

The idea is to restrain him safely, but in a way that doesn’t harm his neck and throat. Before heading to the nearest pet supply store, read the following list of pointers.

Shopping tips • Keep in mind that not all harnesses are made the same and therefore don’t serve the same purpose. The primary use of any harness must be taken into consideration when choosing a product. Some are created for training purposes only, while others are for walking.

• Either measure your dog or take him shopping with you. The right fit is essential to the overall function of the harness, as well as your dog’s’comfort.

• Buy a high quality product made from durable materials. It’ll cost more, but it’s well worth the investment.

Woven from recycled plastics, this harness is eco-friendly as well as practical (Trixie & Peanut).

This harness from Organic Pet Boutique is soft, breathable and adjustable at the chest. animal wellness

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•M ost importantly, look for a harness that rests low on the dog’s chest, as opposed to high on his neck. Some products are especially designed so the pressure point is evenly spaced across the dog’s chest between his forelimbs. This eliminates the damaging effects of stress around the neck. “Keep in mind the delicate structure of the dog’s neck, and select a harness that would go over his shoulders and across his chest without restricting his breathing should he tend to pull,” says Andy Street of Buddy Belt.

•C onsider what the harness is made from. Nylon is best for puppies or small dogs but can cut into a bigger, stronger dog if the strips are too thin. While you’ll pay more for leather and suede, these materials will mold and conform to your dog’s body over time and create a shoe-like fit.

This comfy harness doubles as a car restraint (Doggie Driving).

Balancing the homemade diet is essential.

A harness may not stop your dog from pulling, but it gives you a significantly improved sense of control, and minimizes or eliminates the risk of damage to his airway and esophagus.

That’s what veterinarians and trainers agree is most important – having safe control over a pulling dog without worrying that he’ll choke if you don’t give in to his pulling.

Kelly tried a harness on her dog and while it took him a little time to get used to it, her investment has made their daily walks a lot easier on both of them. “He still pulls, but it doesn’t make him gasp and gag, and my arm and shoulder don’t hurt anymore!”

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parkavenuedogs.com

trixieandpeanut.com

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From kelp to kombu, edible seaweeds are versatile “veggies” full of nutrition and flavor. They’re good for your animal companion too.

by Audi Donamor

T

he west coast of Canada is a hub for edible seaweeds.

My relationship with food from the sea occurred in 1981 when I decided to solo the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island. I found myself spending time with a First Nations family, learning to live off the land and sea.

I will never forget the taste of freshly harvested dulse, crisped to perfection over an open fire.

Seaweed is a super food and one of the oldest forms of life on earth. Sea vegetables, unlike land plants, have no leaves, stalks or roots, so their growth depends on energy from the sun. It is estimated that our oceans are home to more than 8,000 species of seaweed.

When buying edible seaweeds, look for sustainably harvested, low temperature, sun dried Organic Crop Improvement Association (ocia.org) standard products that have been tested for heavy metals, herbicides, pesticides, PCBs, fuel oil and bacteriological contaminants.

Fresh sea vegetables should be washed and stored in the refrigerator, and cooked in ceramic pots, glassware or stainless steel. Dried sea vegetables should be stored in dark glass jars or hung in dark dry rooms.

Acadian sea kelp – contains protein, iodine, calcium, sulfur, magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorus, sodium and potassium, along with vitamins A, B, E and D. Reduces cholesterol levels by inhibiting bile acid absorption, helps flush harmful bacteria from the bladder, reduces inflammation in injured tissues, and supports healthy skin and coat.

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Kelp is the richest single source of trace minerals, which are beneficial to the pituitary, adrenal and thyroid glands.

Kelp supports the immune system, helps regulate blood sugar levels, soothes the gastrointestinal tract, and helps alleviate joint pain.

Dulse – a red sea vegetable and a rich source of iron, potassium, iodine, vitamin B6, riboflavin and fiber. Also contains protein, floridoside (a type of carbohydrate), calcium, fluoride, magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese, chromium and vitamins C and E. The natural iodine in dulse supports thyroid function. Use as a substitute for regular table salt, alongside dark leafy vegetables, or toast it for a great crunchy treat.

Kombu – the largest sea vegetable, and a meaty, high protein seaweed that supports liver, stomach and kidney function. Contains iodine, carotenes, vitamins B, C, D and E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, silica, iron and zinc. It’s higher in natural mineral salts than most other seaweeds. Kombu also contains glutamine and fucoidan, a complex polysaccharide, supports kidney and thyroid function, and even acts as a natural fungicide.

Combines well with carrots and squash for a nutritional meal topper. Chicken and beef stocks can be replaced with kelp stock for a powerful nutritional punch. Try it soaked, simmered, sautéed, roasted, pan fried or marinated.

Nori – contains a significant amount of protein, vitamins A, B and C, minerals and amino acids such as arginine, typically found in animal protein. It also offers other

Clockwise from top: Dulse flakes, Irish moss, Arame dried seaweed, Sea vegetable salad, toasted Nori, Acadian sea kelp. Middle: Kombu

amino acids including alanine, glycine and glutamic acid, to support the gastrointestinal tract and aid in the digestive process. Nori contains taurine, which provides liver support. Nori sheets are low in sodium, but boast high levels of fiber, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin and vitamins A and C. Try spreading nori sheets on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper, and bake in a preheated 300ºF oven for five to ten minutes. Sprinkle some on your animal’s food before serving. Nori can also be dry roasted on your stove top for a crunchy treat.

Supplementing with kelp Kelp is becoming popular as a dietary supplement for humans and animals. Just be careful when purchasing a product: check for a current laboratory assay and know the iodine content. Consult with your vet before introducing any new supplement to your animal’s diet.

Cats and small dogs – 1/8 teaspoon per day Medium dogs – 1/4 teaspoon per day Large dogs – 1/2 teaspoon per day

Wakame – a brown seaweed that contains fucoxanthin, a compound with many beneficial effects, including the oxidation of fatty acids and the production of heat energy in fat tissue mitochondria, which are found in every cell. It creates energy from sugar and fatty acids, and regulates metabolism, making it helpful to diabetics. Wakame is a rich source of eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, and also contains high levels of calcium, iodine, thiamine and niacin, as well as chlorophyll, protein, magnesium, iron and fiber. Alaria, wild Atlantic wakame, contains animal wellness

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more fiber than oat bran. In traditional Asian medicine, wakame is used to purify the blood, aid in liver detoxification, and support the gastrointestinal system and reproductive organs. Research indicates wakame helps contribute to healthy skin and coat, and has anticarcinogenic properties.

Irish moss – a perfect sprinkle for your companion’s food. It provides glandular and lung support, and soothes the gastrointestinal tract. It contains calcium chloride, which acts as a heart tonic and provides support to the kidneys and bladder.

Many of these seaweeds can be eaten on their own, or incorporated into the following delicious recipes.

Baked fish cakes Ingredients •2 pounds ground white fish (e.g. tillapia, pollock, cod) •3 eggs •2 carrots •2 teaspoons Acadian sea kelp •4 tablespoons oatmeal •1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil •3/4 cup filtered water, fish or vegetable stock, or a combination •Nori sheets for wrapping fish cakes

Instructions Choose organic ingredients whenever possible. This recipe can easily be cut in half, or make up the entire blend and freeze in small portions for future use. A little goes a long way.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine all ingredients, except the fish, in a food processor or blender. Turn out into a large mixing bowl.

Add the fish and combine thoroughly. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. You can make perfect large cakes for your dog by using an old fashioned ice cream scoop. To make small patties for your feline companion, try using a fruit scoop like those used for making melon balls.

After scooping, place each cake in the middle of a nori sheet, flatten with a fork, wrap it like a present and place it on the cookie sheet. Bake for approximately one hour. Remove from oven and cool completely before storing in your refrigerator or freezer. Slice and serve.

As an alternative, line a 9”x12” Pyrex baking dish with the nori sheets (bottom and sides), scoop the fish mix on top and make sure it is evenly spread out. Top with nori sheets before baking.

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Kelp kisses Ingredients • 1 can wild sockeye salmon (5.65 ounces), Pacific Coast wild solid white Albacore tuna (6.35 ounces), mackerel (4.23 ounces) or sardines (4.23 ounces) • 2 cups whole grain flour (e.g. whole brown rice, whole oats, quinoa) •1 tablespoon fresh or 1½ teaspoons dried parsley* •1 1/2 teaspoons Acadian sea kelp, dulse or Irish moss •1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional) •1 cup filtered water or fish stock •1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil or rice bran oil * For your feline companions, substitute 1 teaspoon of parsley with 1 teaspoon of dried catnip.

Instructions Choose organic ingredients wherever possible. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Put all the ingredients in a food processor or blender, and whirl until everything is thoroughly combined and really smooth. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Pretend you are making deviled eggs and scoop the mixture into a cookie press. Or spoon the mixture onto your cookie sheets the way you would with drop cookies. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn oven off, letting the kisses cool completely in the oven before storing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag in the refrigerator. These treats freeze well.

Kombu candy Ingredients •Package of kombu •1/4 cup unpasteurized honey •1/2 cup filtered water •1 cup finely ground Brazil nuts or almonds

Instructions Choose organic ingredients whenever possible. Soak dried kombu pieces in filtered water until they are soft. Drain and cut into small pieces, enough to fill 1/2 cup. Combine honey with filtered water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, add the kombu, and continue to cook gently until the liquid has evaporated. This takes about one hour.

Spread Brazil nuts or almonds on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper. Coat the kombu pieces in the ground nuts. Bake 30 minutes. Cool completely before enticing your companions with these tasty morsels. This is a treat the whole family can share.

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Win-win situation Offenders train shelter dogs for adoption thanks to successful prison programs that give both inmates and animals a second chance in life.

by Shirley Scott

This happy pair was successfully trained by inmates at the Washington State Penitentiary and have since been adopted out.

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W

hen most people go to the shelter to adopt a dog, they look for one that’s trained, friendly and affectionate. Untrained dogs, especially those with fear or aggression issues, are usually passed over. Many are labeled “unadoptable” and end up being euthanized.

But a lot of these homeless shelter dogs are being turned around and made ready for new homes by unique prison programs that have sprung up across the country and beyond.

These programs engage inmates to train the animals in a winwin situation that benefits both dogs and offenders.

Inspired idea It started in 1981 when a Dominican nun named Sister Pauline Quinn realized the over-crowded prison system was failing to help offenders contribute positively to society. She had an idea she hoped would help inmates feel they were not only part of society, but were actually giving back to their community. Sister Pauline got several professional dog trainers together and launched the first dog training program at the Washington State Correctional Center for Women. The center takes homeless dogs and trains them to be service dogs for physically impaired people. Hundreds of dogs have come out of this program since it started.

Since then, many similar prison programs have started up, not only in the US but also in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Italy. At least 20 American states have one or more of these programs operating, and some care for horses and other animals as well as dogs. There’s even a program in Oregon for juvenile offenders. It teaches kids how to care for animals and is being copied in other juvenile facilities across the nation. Most of the programs are run and maintained by individual non-profit organizations so the cost isn’t a burden on prisons or taxpayers.

How it works I’m fortunate to be a professional dog trainer volunteering at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla

Working with a dog can help promote a healthier mental state and reduce boredom and restlessness, big problems in many correctional facilities. animal wellness

47

Walla, Washington. Our program started about a year ago and we’ve already had 18 shelter dogs graduate and be adopted.

The dogs in our particular program are not trained to be service dogs, but are taught basic commands such as sit, stay, heel, come, lie down, don’t jump up, shake hands, and leave it. We focus on training them to be good citizens as defined by the American Kennel Club’s Good Canine Citizenship program.

Upon arrival, the dogs are first socialized in groups of six. After two to three weeks of being with the inmates taking part in the program, they are socialized with the rest of the prison population. The total program lasts about ten weeks, during which the inmates work with the professional trainer to help the dogs.

During this time, the dogs live in the cells with their

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trainers. There are two offenders to a cell. One is the primary trainer and the other the secondary trainer. We also have several inmate “doggie sitters” if the two trainers are not available to be with the dog. These “doggie sitters” must meet the same criteria and go through the same educational process the primary and secondary trainers go through. The rules are the same for everyone in the program, and it’s working very nicely.

We give each dog the AKC Canine Good Citizenship test before they leave the prison and head to their new homes. This assures their new families they’ve overcome their behavioral issues and should be good with other people and dogs.

Benefits for people and dogs Each program in each prison is run a little differently. The programs can run from six weeks to 18 months or longer. If dogs are just being trained in basic commands, the length

The offenders know they’re helping the animals, and in return feel they’re being given another chance too.

of time is seven to 12 weeks. If they’re being trained as service dogs for people with physical impairments, the programs can go on for 18 months or more. But they all have the same basic outcome – to save dogs from being euthanized, and give offenders a sense of purpose and relief from boredom.

Working and interacting with animals has therapeutic value in a wide variety of settings and prison is no exception. Many offenders feel isolated and unvalued. Working with a dog can help promote a healthier mental state and reduce boredom and restlessness, big problems in many correctional facilities.

Research is also being compiled to see how these programs affect both offenders and administrators in a prison. In many cases, the barriers of fear and mistrust between staff and offenders are lowered. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that recidivism and behavioral infractions may be reduced among inmates that work with the dogs.

Offenders have to meet strict criteria to be considered for the program, so competition can be great. Many prisons allow only model offenders to participate. If these offenders violate any rule or have incidents with other offenders, their privilege

to be in the program is taken away. Offenders therefore have an incentive to behave. Other offenders have been reported to follow this lead in the hopes of being picked for the program.

Thanks to these prison programs, thousands of homeless and unwanted dogs have been retrained, rehabilitated and relocated in adoptive “forever” homes, with physically or mentally impaired people, or working in search and rescue.

The programs have saved many dogs that might have found themselves on death row.

This second chance at life is one thing the offenders and dogs have in common. It creates a very special bond between them.

The offenders know they’re helping the animals, and in return feel they’re being given another chance too. Many prison programs also offer courses for offenders interested in working with animals when they’re released. Several have stated how the program has changed their lives, and that it helps them feel they can succeed at something.

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COMMUNICATORS

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animal wellness

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Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 Caroline Goulard DVM CVA (949) 813-4107 Aliso Viejo, CA USA Phone: (949) 813-4107 Email: c.goulard@cox.net Website: www.carolinegoularddvm.com Acupuncture, Chinese herbals, Tui-na

Coddingtown Vet Clinic Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 546-4646 Creature Comfort Oakland, CA USA Phone: (510) 530-1373 EverGlo-Naturals Gloria Dodd, DVM Gualala, CA USA Phone: 707-785-9171 Email: everglo@mcn.org Website: www.holisticvetpetcare.net Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643

Homeopathy and nutrition for dogs, cats & horses.

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Holistic Veterinary Center Calabasas, CA USA Phone: (818) 880-0838 Website: www.holistic-vet-center.com

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Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com

Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com Parkway Veterinary Hospital West Roxbury, MA USA Phone: (617) 469-8400

NEW JERSEY

Mark Newkirk, VMD Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Margate City, NJ USA Toll Free: (609) 645-2120 Phone: (609) 823-3031 Website: www.alternativevet.com

Aquapuncture, Cancer Therapies, Chiropractic, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathic, Nutritional Balancing, Phone Consultations

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Shingle Springs Vet Clinic Shingle Springs, CA USA Phone: 530-677-0390 Email: drb@deanbaderdvm.com Website: www.deanbaderdvm.com

SmithRidge Veterinary Services Dr. Marty Goldstein South Salem, NY USA Phone: (914) 533-6066 Website: www.smithridge.com

CONNECTICUT

Ballantrae Animal Hospital Margaret Hacking, DVM Stouffville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 640-6809 Website: www.AnimalWellnessCentre.com

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Home Vet Weston , CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com

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Cynthia Harcourt, DVM Queensville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 478-1995

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Goderich Veterinary Clinic Goderich , ON Canada Phone: 519-524-2631 Email: holistic@hurontel.on.ca

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

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Janet Knowlton, DVM Almonte, ON Canada Phone: 613-253-7473 Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: drautumn@sympatico.ca Website: www.holistic-vet.ca

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Secord Animal Hospital Dr. Joanna Milan Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 486-1700 Email: secordanimalhospital@yahoo.ca

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Waterloo North Chiropractic Massage Jennifer Heik, DVM Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 746-3838

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natural product manufacturers/distributors - natural product retailers

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Beaver Animal Clinic Beaver, PA USA Phone: 724-774-8047 Website: www.beaveranimalclinic.com Rockledge Veterinary Clinic Rockledge, PA USA Phone: (215) 379-1677 Email: rockledgevet@aol.com Website: www.rockledgevet.com

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Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet

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Iceland Pure Vista , CA USA Phone: (760) 727-7333 Email: ice@icelandpure.com Website: www.icelandpure.com Natural Touch 4 Paws Studio City, CA USA Phone: (818) 986-9997 Email: naturaltouch4paw@aol.com Onesta Organics San Diego, CA USA Phone: (619) 295-1136 Email: info@onestaorganics.com Website: www.onestaorganics.com

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At your service

If you or someone you know is disabled and wants a dog, how do you choose the right one?

by Deborah Rubin Fields

M

elanie wanted to get a dog for her elderly father. Her mother had recently died and he was living alone.

Arthritis limited his ability to get around without a cane, so she knew she had to choose a breed that wouldn’t mind going for short, leisurely walks rather than long hikes or romps in the park. She knew an energetic dog like a border collie or beagle wouldn’t be a good choice, and a rambunctious puppy would be too much for her dad to handle. She finally settled on a placid middle-aged Shih-tzu from the local shelter.

If you have a disability, or know someone who does, there’s a right dog for you too. People with disabilities often choose service dogs – animals that not only become beloved companions but are also trained to do a whole lot wellness 54animal animal wellness

more. If you decide to adopt a dog from a local rescue or shelter, however, you need to do some thinking first.

Consider your needs • Depending on the nature of your disability, you may or may not have limited mobility. If you do, you’ll want a dog that doesn’t need a lot of vigorous exercise to stay happy and well adjusted. Breeds such as collies, hounds and huskies probably aren’t the best choice. You might consider something like a Bichon frise, a dachshund, a Shih-tzu or a Boston terrier.

• Activity levels also depend on a dog’s age. Puppies are constantly on the go, but an older dog is quieter and more settled.

• Is the dog already trained? An animal that’s properly housetrained and knows basic obedience skills is an asset.

• A large dog might be better for someone who is visually impaired. It can be easy to trip over a small dog if you don’t see clearly.

• For people who can walk but have limited balance, there is one outstanding point to remember: even a small dog tugging on a leash can topple someone with restricted physical stability. To insure against falling, a person with partial equilibrium might be advised to adopt a dog with superior leash skills. Such a dog must likewise have no inclination to jump up on people. Again, good training is key.

• Dogs should be allowed outdoors three times a day to urinate and defecate. For people who are unsteady on their feet but have a fenced-in area attached to their home, there’s probably nothing to worry about. Physically unstable people who do not have such a space will need to arrange to have someone else take the dog out.

Service dogs play many roles Unlike a dog adopted from your local shelter, all service dogs require extensive training so they can learn to independently perform their tasks. None of these dogs are trained by their human companions alone. They all attend intensive programs led by experienced trainers, and assist people with a wide range of disabilities. You must complete a training course with the dog and canine instructor. In all cases, you must be able to care for the dog’s daily needs.

• Hearing dogs tend to be small to medium-sized mixed breeds. In fact, canine training organizations often obtain their four-legged students from shelters. Hearing dogs recognize and alert their people to a variety of sounds including knocking or doorbells, smoke alarms and crying babies or children. Due to the nature of their work, these dogs must be energetic and ready to instantly respond to stimuli.

• By contrast, guide dogs for the blind are mostly purebred.

While Labrador and golden retrievers are probably the most widely “hired” breeds, a number of training centers also prepare German shepherds and even standard poodles for this career. These breeds are largely chosen for their original functions of herding and retrieving. In today’s complex urban environment, however, these dogs are also singled out for their intelligence and steadfast ability

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Medium to large dogs are usually chosen for the visually impaired – they’re easier for a blind person to harness and comfortably hold onto. to “disobey” an unsafe command. Medium to large dogs are usually chosen for the visually impaired – they’re easier for a blind person to harness and comfortably hold onto.

• Some dogs are trained to sniff the breath of people with Type 1 diabetes. Usually Labs, these natural breath analyzers are able to detect dangerously low sugar levels (hypoglycemia).

To relieve the symptoms, they may carry bottled juice for their people. These dogs are placed with both adults and children over the age of 12.

• Other dogs learn to help people with epilepsy. If there is enough time before the onset of a seizure, the dog may bring water, medicine and/or a telephone to his person. If the seizure has already begun, the dog may bring pillows to cushion her head, thereby lowering the risk of injury. Some people maintain their dogs can actually sense when a seizure is about to take place. These dogs reportedly help them to a safe place (i.e. the floor), so they won’t be hurt by falling.

• Service dogs trained to work with mobility challenged individuals can help people who use crutches, canes, walkers and even wheelchairs. Dogs placed with people with degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) help to either balance or brace them, stabilizing them in both standing and sitting positions. These dogs may also help wheelchair-bound people transfer to or from their wheelchairs. For people with hand-operated wheelchairs, the dogs may assist in pulling the chair itself. To fulfill the

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demands of such mobility assistance jobs, however, neither a small nor medium-sized dog would be tall or strong enough.

• Specially trained canines are placed with individuals who have arthritis, CP (cerebral palsy), chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome, fibromyalgia, heart disease, MS (multiple sclerosis), muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, paralysis and spina bifida. Dogs also assist people who have had spinal cord injuries or chronic back/neck problems and strokes. These dogs will: } Pick up dropped objects } Retrieve items from countertops or tables } Carry groceries or other items in a doggie backpack } Load or unload a washer or dryer } Press pedestrian crossing buttons or elevator buttons } Turn lights on or off } Help with undressing (shoes, socks and jackets) Whether you opt for a service dog, or adopt one from a shelter or rescue, there’s one more benefit he’ll offer you, regardless of his breed or job description – joie de vivre!

Wheelchair-bound people with service dogs enjoy perks that go beyond the practical. In 1988, Eddy, Hart and Boltz reported that service dogs substantially reduced the tendency of able-bodied people to ignore or avoid those using wheelchairs.

Product picks For big dogs Do you have a tough time finding a treat that satisfies your large dog? Sojos meets his needs with their new BIG DOG treats. These all-natural gourmet biscuits are available in two tasty recipes – Beef Stew and Biscuits & Gravy. Free of wheat, by-products and artificial additives, the treats are made from rye flour, oat bran and other healthful ingredients such as whole beef, chicken, veggies, honey and eggs.

Their large bone shape makes them perfect for big breeds.

12 oz box: $6.95 sojos.com

Go for the gizzard Here’s a treat with a difference. Gizzard Chews from Onesta Organics are made from the gizzards of organic, sustainably-raised free-range chickens or turkeys. Excess fat is removed from the gizzards, then they’re gently dehydrated to preserve their protein and nutritional content. Choose from three flavors – Plain, Cinnamon and Kelp. This product makes a healthy alternative to commercial chew treats.

1.8 oz bag: $7.50 - $7.80 onestaorganics.com

Power walk Have a bite A good quality vitamin and mineral supplement makes a smart addition to your dog’s diet. New from i Love Dogs, TJ’s Health Bites is a new line of canine multivitamins.

Fortified with decaffeinated green tea, these supplements offer a blend of essential nutrients, antioxidants, herbs, enzymes and amino acids. They’re also flavored with peanut butter, so your dog is sure to enjoy them!

90 tablets: $29.99 ilovedogs.com

Does your dog slip on your floors, or have a hard time getting up from smooth surfaces? Power Paws can solve the problem. They’re especially designed to give dogs traction on slippery surfaces, from ceramic tiles to boat decking. They also enhance your dog’s stability in moving vehicles and prevent his nails from scratching hardwood flooring. Senior dogs find it easier to rise when wearing Power Paws. They’re ideal as protection for foot injuries too.

Available in a range of sizes and ten stylish designs.

One set: $19.99 woodrowwear.com

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57

Have a

ball!

What dog doesn’t love playing with balls? Find out how to choose the safest and most durable products for your canine companion.

by Sara Jackson

“W

ho wants to play ball?” usually elicits a burst of frantic energy, tail wags and head-jerking barks. Playing with your dog is a great bonding experience, and balls are a perennial favorite for activities such as fetch and retrieving games, played both on land and in water. They’re also a good training tool. But choosing a safe, durable ball can be challenging, considering the vast number of products on the market. Read on for some tips to help you find your way towards a smart purchase.

Nix the tennis ball The most common ball given to dogs is the tennis ball.

According to some veterinarians, however, tennis balls are unsafe for canine companions. The fuzz that covers them is abrasive and can wear your dog’s teeth down to the nerves. As an alternative, the Air Kong Squeaker looks

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like a tennis ball, but it’s covered in a non-abrasive material that won’t eat away at your dog’s teeth. It also contains a securely-concealed squeaker for extra fun.

The Air Kong Squeaker looks like a tennis ball but features a nonabrasive covering.

Get tough Some vinyl and plastic balls contain toxic materials such as di-isononyl phthalate (DINP), lead, mercury and cadmium, which can cause cancer and liver damage. To ensure your dog’s safety, look for balls made of non-toxic natural rubber or latex materials.

Also consider your dog’s size, strength and activity level. Is he an aggressive chewer who tears apart any toy you give him in just a few days or even hours?

The Orbee-Tuff Ball On a Rope is made from a hard non-toxic material suited to tough chewers. This product is recyclable, floats in the water and rinses clean. “Nontoxic construction is a must,” says Terry Fisk of Show and Sport. “The Orbee-Tuff has two air holes to prevent vacuum effects. It’s an appropriate size to prevent swallowing or accidental airway obstruction. It’s tough enough to prevent the dog from chewing

“The safest ball for your dog is the one you play with together.”

Justin G. Hill, Bird Ball

Durable non-toxic materials make these balls a safe choice (Show and Sport)

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pieces off while its semi-soft density prevents injury to the teeth.”

Extra features A lot of dogs need mental as well as physical stimulation.

To meet this need, some ball products offer extra features to help keep canines interested and engaged. For example, the Huck Ball from Doggies Unlimited has a grooved shape that makes it jump in all kinds of crazy directions. “It’s made from our extremely durable Zogoflex material, which makes it a good choice for dogs that may have a tendency to chew through a traditional ball,” adds Mary Paoli.

Many balls are made with a lot of bells and whistles – literally! The Bird Ball is great if your dog loves toys that make noise. It doesn’t squeak, but whistles and chirps when thrown through the air. It’s made primarily of EVA plastic, a non-toxic, flexible and durable material. Its bright colors make it easy to locate on land or in water. The wings on the sides of the ball make it accessible to dogs of all sizes.

“Bird Ball is the same size as a tennis ball, and because it has small winged appendages, it is suitable as a fetch toy for small or large dogs,” says Justin G. Hill. “Big dogs can retrieve the toy by grabbing the whole ball in their mouth, and small dogs can grab hold of the wings.”

One of the beauties of a ball is that it encourages interactive play between you and your dog. Choosing a product that’s safe, durable, fun and colorful makes the time you spend together even better!

The Bird Ball is designed for dogs of all sizes.

Extra safety tips • Avoid buying balls that have polystyrene or nutshells inside them.

• Make sure that squeakers are well hidden to prevent accidental ingestion.

• Look for unsafe parts by pulling on anything that sticks out or makes noise, to ensure they won’t come off easily in your dog’s mouth.

Resources Bird Ball, BirdBallToy.com

The grooves on these balls add fun by making them bounce wildly around (Doggies Unlimited).

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Doggies Unlimited, doggiesunlimited.com

Kong, kongcompany.com

Show and Sport, showandsport.com

I

nspired by the heartache of losing her beloved dog Mercy after a routine dental procedure in 1992, Lise Guerin was determined to find another way to maintain the dental health of dogs and cats. After numerous consultations and rigorous testing with medical professionals on different continents, Leba III was created from a combination of safe and effective herbs, including mint (Lamiaceae) and Rose (Rosaceae) stabilized in 25% ethyl alcohol (human, food grade) and distilled water.

The herbs are the active ingredients, changing the chemistry in the mouth, stimulating the enzymes and causing the tartar to soften and fall off. “It works with the saliva by stimulating the good flora,” Lise explains. “You hear a lot about probiotics now, because we know that to maintain health in a live system, you fight bad bacteria with good bacteria.” When you use a product with an antiseptic, it kills both the good and bad bacteria and puts the chemistry in the mouth even more off balance. Leba III has a different action.”

By 1994, veterinarians all across Canada were buying Leba III to use in their practices. Soon, the product was available in the U.S. and was being distributed to pet stores and sold directly to consumers.

Helping other animals and protecting them from what happened to Mercy means the world to Lise. “We received an email recently from a customer in New York whose dog had terrible teeth and breath. She wrote, “It has been life changing as we now allow her to sit with us for hours instead of minutes! Thank you for making such an easy to use and effective product.” Testimonials won’t bring Mercy back, but they celebrate her memory.

For more information on Leba III visit www.lebalab.com or call 1-866-532-2522.

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Holistic Veterinary advice

Talking with Dr. Martin Goldstein

Dr. Martin Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for 30 years. Based at Smith Ridge Veterinary Center in South Salem, New York. Dr. Goldstein is the author of The Nature of Animal Healing, published by Random House. You can also hear him on “Ask Martha’s Vet with Dr Marty” on Sirius Satellite Radio network channel 112 every Monday at 8PM EST (www. sirius.com).

Send your questions for Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com Dr. Marty responds to questions in his column only. We regret he cannot respond to every question.

Q A

What is the recommended daily allowance for vitamins – particularly B complex -- in healthy cats and dogs?

company. In my clinic, we have used Vetri Science Labs’ Canine Plus and Nu Cat Vitamins for many years.

Q

This is a good question and one that would seem to have a simple and straightforward answer. However, it’s not one I can give. Every single cat and dog is an individual with different requirements and sensitivities. For that reason, I’m not fond of blanket recommendations in which “one size fits all”. Granted, I know we need some reference point, but even these are variable based on the reference you select.

In general, for healthy animals, I have always recommended giving a standard multi-vitamin/mineral supplement, preferably derived from non-synthetic and food grade sources and formulated by a reputable

I have a 13-year-old Bedlington terrier with idiopathic agerelated liver disease. It is under excellent control with a home cooked diet. She also has an enlarged adrenal gland and borderline Cushing’s. We can’t put her on Cushing’s meds because they are all hepatotoxic. She is panting and itching and I’m trying to find something to help her. I’ve seen several mentions of phosphatidylserine being used as a cortisol suppressant. But I can’t find any research to tell me if this supplement is safe for her liver, and my vet is unfamiliar with it. I would like to try it, but obviously only if it’s safe (50 mg per day?).

A

I have been using phos serine for many years since it first hit the market. In those days, I was working closely with the company that did the original work documenting its beneficial effects in humans, especially helping to support proper brain function.

It was then that I learned about a study done on conditioned athletes where phos serine was shown to suppress cortisol output by the adrenal glands without any noticeable side effects. From that point on, I have been using it in Cushing’s patients and have not noticed any side effects.

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For a dog the probable weight of your terrier, 100 mg is what we would typically recommend – and many of my clients, over the years, have doubled or tripled our recommendations without any observable side effects.

One other supplement you could consider looking into would be Humanofort by Dogtor Rx.

Q

We have an eight-year-old female long-haired miniature dachshund who last year started having vision problems. We didn’t realize it at first until my mom saw her walk into the corner of the sofa one day, and I noticed she lagged behind when I took her and the other dogs for night walks at the park. We took her to an eye specialist and she was diagnosed with PRA. She seemed fine in the daytime, but in the past few months her vision has got a bit worse. I had a cheek swab gene test done from a lab in the UK and they sent me a letter that she had both genes for PRA. I did some research and heard of something called adrenal exhaustion in SARD dogs. I understand this causes more of a sudden decrease or loss in vision, but that adrenal exhaustion is not a well-known disorder that veterinarians recognize.

I also read that hormone replacement in SARD dogs with this disorder can actually drastically improve and even possibly retain or improve vision loss, if caught soon enough (adrenal exhaustion condition). I mentioned this to my vet, and she said she knew nothing of any condition called adrenal exhaustion. Could you explain this disorder? And are any therapies on the horizon for PRA? animal wellness

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A

Two very important roles of the adrenal glands are to control or address stress and inflammation. Because these two factors are inherent to life itself, the adrenals are one of the most stressed and overworked gland systems in the body. Most dogs would benefit from lifelong adrenal support. In the wild, besides eating a very healthy raw diet, carnivores also consume the adrenal glands of their prey.

Adrenal exhaustion is a more specific entity where, as the adrenals do exhaust, produce excessive amounts of their own estrogen, producing symptoms similar to that of Cushing’s disease (it’s thus called atypical Cushing’s).

And there is a definite reported correlation between this condition and SARDS. Seek the consultation of an experienced integrative veterinarian – alternative therapies can lend tremendous support to many adrenal problems.

One new supplement holding promise is Humanofort by Dogtor Rx.

available foods specifically and scientifically designed for urinary conditions, I still like feeding whole foods that are of much higher quality.

Again, knowing the specific stone type is vital before even being able to select the proper components of the diet.

This is because some stone formations could be enhanced by feeding certain meats. There are a number of books you can use as reference, especially after you find out the name of the stone. The classic is Home-Prepared Dog and Cat Diets by Dr Donald Strombeck. Regardless of the stone type, I have has success using the Chinese herbal formula Pyrossia 14 by Seven Forests.

Q

For the PRA, I have seen some response with cases.

Visioplex by Progressive Labs and Oculotrophin by Standard Process are two good supplements for eye support. In Chinese philosophy, there is a strong tie between the eyes and the liver. So adding liver support like Denamarin by Nutramax is a good idea. Another suggestion is to consult a veterinarian practicing acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

There is a veterinarian in Israel who is injecting stem cells into the eyes of dogs with reported success. You may find information about this by contacting the Vet Stem company in San Diego (vet-stem.com).

Q A

I have an 11-year-old Shih tzu/Schnauzer mix. She has had three surgeries to remove stones in her bladder. I have her on Royal Canin Urinary. I was told that if her urine pH was low it would create stones, and if it was high it would create a different stone. Any recommendations?

To properly treat any urinary stone condition, you must know exactly what the specific stone type is. There are a number of urinary stones dogs can get, each having different recommendations and requirements for proper care and possible prevention.

From what you stated here, it sounds like the stone created by low pH would be the calcium oxalate stone, and the one created by high pH would be struvite. In general, although there are a number of commercially

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In a previous issue you mentioned a few products to alleviate the problems of a dog losing its hair. I wrote them down but lost the note. One was a homeopathic medication and the other began with a “d”. We have tried everything on our poodle who is really going bald.

Hair loss can be associated with many different skin diseases, so I can’t really advise you without knowing what is causing your poodle’s problem. The appropriate treatment depends strongly on knowing the actual cause or type of condition. For instance, if the hair loss was not caused by itching and scratching, and the pattern of hair loss was very symmetrical on both sides of the body, then you would most likely be dealing with a hormonal type condition such as hypothyroidism. The recommended treatment for this would be very different from a hair loss problem caused by a dog scratching due to severe allergies.

In either case, though, one supplement that’s almost always beneficial is a high quality fish oil. Another recommendation would be to seek consultation with a veterinarian who practices integrative medicine.

Q

My sister’s dog, Dixie, is a seven-year-old Doberman/ shepherd mix. She was taken to her vet because of lack of appetite, lack of energy and general malaise.

The vet decided she was anemic and had internal bleeding. He found her spleen tearing. He removed it and gave her a transfusion. A few days later, her blood count was not where he thought it should be.

He said it was still around 18 and needed to be closer to 50. I am not sure if he is talking about hemoglobin or RBC...all her other values were normal, except for the red blood cells.

He says he has no other alternative but to do a bone marrow test, as he can’t figure out why her blood count isn’t higher. (They haven’t received the biopsy results from the spleen tissue yet.) Our vet is strictly conventional. Dixie is eating and has gained two pounds, and feels better (by her behavior). She is still tired and has episodes of “panting”. She is on prednisone and another med for building her blood. I suggested giving her raw or slightly cooked red meat… and finding a holistic or integrative vet. There must a natural way to build her blood back up.

A

So far, I’d say the advice and procedures done by the veterinarian, and your own inclinations, are correct.

The biopsy results are very important here. The most common condition that fits this bill is a cancer called hemangiosarcoma. There are others, such as histiocytic sarcoma, that also affect the spleen and would have more of a tendency to also affect the bone marrow.

In either case, once the results are in, consulting with an oncologist would be a good idea. I also suggest working in conjunction with a veterinarian well experienced in integrative medicine, especially with treating cancer.

One of the supplements I’ve used for years with anemia is Hemaplex by Progressive Labs. Feeding slightly cooked organic liver also helps fight anemia.

So many other supplements could be used once the biopsy results are back and a logical plan is in place.

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Championing the benefits of quality all-natural pet foods

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I

n Greek mythology, Zeus is the king of the gods. For David Levy, (opposite, top right) Zeus is a very special Rottweiler who inspired him to start Zeus & Company, an all-natural pet products distributor based in the American Midwest.

Zeus’s enthusiastic reaction to the natural healthy pet foods David found for him convinced him to start the business, which is now in its 13th year. Since its founding, the company has been delivering healthy nutrition for animals, and continuously invests in research and testing to ensure the highest quality, most nutritious pet food.

Zeus & Company was the first all-natural pet product supplier in the Midwest “I started the company when I had a hard time finding nutritious food for my own dog and cats,” explains David, who is the company’s president as well as its founder.

The first facility opened in Evanston, Illinois and has since expanded into California and Minnesota. “Now more than ever, people are becoming educated and seeing the numerous benefits of feeding all-natural healthy foods,” David says.

“We’re a very customer friendly company that prides itself on educating the public and store owners.” He and his team provide in-store training sessions and educational seminars at their facilities as well as community events.

The company offers a long list of quality products for dogs and cats, and David has added several new ones this year.

Many are environmentally friendly, and tailored to the animal’s personal needs. “ACANA and ORIJEN foods are completely grain free, Bite O’ Blue treats look and smell like blueberries and are great for a dog’s coat, while Purr and Simple is a unique cat litter that absorbs and eliminates odors without the use of fragrances or any other additives.”

Zeus also carries other quality products including The Pet Loo, the exceptionally strong EZ Steps Leash, and a newly released Tick Key that helps people search for and remove ticks from an animal’s coat.

The company also donates thousands of pounds of food each year to local animal shelters and rescue groups. They even supplied food to the canine and feline victims of Hurricane Katrina. Zeus & Company supports local events and led the charge to raise $10,000 to care for and train a Narcotics Detection and Tracking Canine. “Having this canine team provides a unique opportunity to promote a safe community,” says David, who is a former law enforcement officer. Since budgets are tight across the country, Zeus & Company is helping other police departments by providing police dogs with food and supplements.

David’s vast knowledge of all-natural foods came to the rescue when Zeus was diagnosed with cancer of the spleen in August of 2005. Several top veterinarians predicted Zeus had only two to six months to live. David was determined to help his best friend live longer, so he fed him a complete raw meat diet, and gave him several supplements and vitamins. Zeus lived three more years until his passing in August of 2008.

Despite his loss, David is moving ahead with enthusiasm. “It’s a great time to look to the future, make better decisions on what you are feeding your animal, and try new products.” He also makes sure everything his company sells meets the high standards of his own dog, Lacey, and his cats, Clementine and Ginger. Zeus may be gone now, but his legacy is alive and well!

“

”

We’re a very customer friendly company that prides itself on educating the public and store owners.

For more information, visit zeusandco.com

“

Now more than ever, people are becoming educated and seeing the numerous benefits of feeding all-natural healthy foods.

”

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the scoop Funds for shelters Global Pet Foods recently announced that its annual “Show Us Your Heart” in-store campaign raised more than $50,000 this year for Canadian animal shelters.

“As a company of animal lovers, we’d adopt every homeless pet if we could,” says Jim Walker, president of the quality pet food retailer. “Our annual promotion enables us to work together with customers to support local shelters – and help these wonderful pets find new homes.” globalpetfoods.ca

Muffins galore

Health Food Stores For Your Pet

Massage mat Most dogs love being massaged or receiving Reiki or acupressure, and it’s a healing experience for you too!

A Pet Massage Mat from Tammy and Teddy’s will make your sessions even more enjoyable. These quilted Health Food Stores For Your Pet mats are handmade from cotton, nylon and polyester and backed with waterproof nylon. They’re machine washable and come in four sizes and an assortment of colors and prints. tammyandteddysmats.com

Corn, soy, wheat and yeast are the top four ingredients that cause allergies in dogs. Canine Life, a balanced, allnatural fresh food diet for dogs that bakes into muffins, contains none of these allergens. It’s therefore a popular Stores For Your Pet choice Health for Food canines from coast to coast; in fact, the company reports that over four million of their muffins have been served to dogs all over the country since 2002. theskyesthelimit.com or westcoastcaninelife.com

Health Food Stores For Your Pet

Year-round love Be Kind to Animals Week officially happens in May, but why not make it a year-round commitment? American Humane offers five ways you can be kind to animals every day: • Adopt an animal.

• Report animal abuse.

• Spay or neuter your animals.

• Live humanely with wildlife.

Get active in local animal welfare policies and legislation.

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Photo of Natasha Henstridge: © Chris Helcermanas-Benge/2009 Crown Media

See Spot smile

Wildlife hospital

A dog’s body is designed to eat mostly meat with some vegetables and fruits and little or no grains. Herbsmith’s new See Spot Smile Treats are formulated to meet these dietary requirements. They’re made purely of meat with biologically complementing vegetables and fruits. Try your companion on Chicken with Apples & Spinach, Beef with Potatoes, Carrots & Celery, or Duck with Oranges. herbsmithinc.com

According to a recent study by Smart Growth America, 46% of imperiled wildlife species are within the boundaries of metropolitan areas. To help address this situation, GROW Wildlife Inc. is raising funds to build a veterinary clinic just for native species.

The GROW Wildlife Hospital of Georgia will be a state-of-the-art medical facility staffed by wildlife vets from the University of Georgia. It will specialize in the treatment of native mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians injured due to urban expansion and habitat destruction. growwildlife.org

Lucky dogs Hallmark Channel and Best Friends Animal Society have formed a partnership to raise awareness of homeless animals. It occurred in conjunction with Hallmark Channels’ premiere of You Lucky Dog on June 26. Best Friends is working with Hallmark Channel to showcase the movie while championing “No More Homeless Pets®” and encouraging animal lovers to consider adoption from a shelter or rescue. Best Friends also launched an adoption pledge and hopes that visibility from the movie will help people think more seriously about adoption. network.bestfriends. org/campaigns/ foreverhome/pledge. aspx

“Down under” Fresh, high quality meat should form the basis of your companion’s diet. Beginning in May, Bravo! began manufacturing all beef and lamb products in its Original Blends, Basics and Boneless lines in New Zealand. This means the company can offer even better quality meats made from whole carcasses, while significantly reducing the amount of handling and providing fresher products. bravorawdiet.com

Natasha Henstridge, star of You Lucky Dog, and her border collie co-star, Lucky. animal wellness

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Keep the beat Heart health is an important part of your dog or cat’s well being. Here’s what you need to know.

by Shawn Messonnier DVM

Y

ou’re aware of the prevalence of heart disease in humans, and are probably doing what you can to keep your own cardiovascular system healthy. But did you know it’s also a common affliction in dogs and cats? Unlike people, who often develop coronary artery disease because of artherosclerotic plaques, dogs and cats typically develop other types of heart disease.

In dogs, cardiomyopathy and mitral valve disease are common. Cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle fails. It typically occurs in larger breeds such as Doberman pinschers and boxers. Mitral valve disease, in which leaky heart valves develop, most often occurs in middle-aged to older small breeds. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are especially prone to this disease, even at an early age; in fact, most Cavaliers will develop heart disease at some point in their lives.

In cats, cardiomyopathy is the typical heart condition.

One form of the disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, is

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caused by taurine deficiency and was once very common.

Now, thanks to added taurine in cat foods, the condition is rarely seen. Now, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common form of heart disease found in cats.

Making a diagnosis Diagnosing heart disease is relatively simple. Your veterinarian will listen to your dog or cat’s heart with a stethoscope, and if he hears a heart murmur or irregular heartbeat, then the animal has heart disease. At this point, however, one of two mistakes are often made.

Mistake #1: The veterinarian takes a “wait and watch” approach. With very few exceptions, a heart murmur always indicates heart disease. To simply “wait and watch” makes no sense. What are we waiting and watching for – the animal to go into heart failure?

Whenever a heart murmur is detected, it indicates the need for more testing to determine the severity of the disease.

CoQ10 therapy increases cardiac output, improves contraction of the heart, and dilates the blood vessels necessary to allow normal bloodflow through the body.

Mistake #2: The vet puts the animal on medication.

There is no need to prescribe medication to a dog or cat simply because a heart murmur is detected. Without further diagnostic testing, there’s no way to know if the animal has a need for medication at this stage. The good news is that for most asymptomatic animals with heart murmurs, a natural approach can be taken and no medications are needed.

Further testing Once a heart murmur is detected, radiographs (x-rays), an EKG and echocardiogram of the heart will be necessary. These tests allow us to determine the stage of heart disease and will guide the treatment. In my experience, most asymptomatic animals have very early heart disease and do not require medication. Follow-up testing, usually with further echocardiograms and EKGs, are done every six months. Medication is prescribed only when the disease has progressed or when heart failure occurs.

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Conventional treatments Three different types of medication can be used for the animal with heart disease. With rare exceptions, these are only necessary with severe heart disease or failure.

They have no place in the treatment of dogs or cats with mild heart disease.

Diuretics – Furosemide (Lasix) is most commonly prescribed whenever a diuretic is needed. Diuretics work by removing excess water from the animal. This class of medication is only needed when fluid accumulation, most often in the lungs (pulmonary edema), is present.

Because edema is not present until advanced heart failure occurs, diuretics should not be used for most animals with heart disease.

ACE Inhibitors – This class of drugs, which includes

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enalapril (Enacard) and benazepril, is used to help the heart pump more efficiently and reduce resistance to bloodflow by dilating blood vessels. ACE inhibitors may reduce coughing in animals with an enlargement of the left atrium. While generally safe, these are potent medications that can cause side effects such as kidney damage. Animals taking ACE inhibitors should have frequent examinations and blood and urine testing. Once again, these medications are not needed for most animals with early heart disease but may be considered for those with advancing heart disease or failure.

This new medication offers several positive benefits for dogs with heart failure. It opens the blood vessels, reducing the amount of work the heart has to do to circulate blood through the dog’s body. It also helps the heart pump more efficiently. Pimobendan is often prescribed for animals with heart disease rather than heart failure, but there is no reason to do so as the drug is not beneficial unless heart failure is present.

treatment of heart disease thanks to its flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Hawthorn exhibits several clinically beneficial effects, including antiarrhythmic properties, increased coronary bloodflow, decreased energy utilization by the damaged heart, and decreased cardiac excitability.

• Omega-3 fatty acids derived from cold water fish rich in EPA and DHA – especially wild salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring – are among the most commonly prescribed supplements for people and animals with a variety of problems, including heart disease.

Natural alternatives

Fish oil has been shown to be superior to statin therapy for lowering mortality in human patients with cardiovascular disease. Fish oil may lower lipids (especially triglycerides) but may cause minor elevations in LDL concentrations.

It may decrease blood clotting and can also reduce atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, arrhythmias, heart failure, sudden cardiac death and stroke. To minimize oxidation, most fish oil products should be kept refrigerated after opening.

A number of natural remedies can be used for the dog or cat with heart disease. In my practice, animals with early heart disease (based on a heart murmur and normal cardiac testing) are placed on one or more of the following natural therapies.

• Homeopathic remedies can be used for animals with heart disease. I typically use homotoxicology remedies (made by the Heel Corporation) which are combination remedies that contain several different homeopathics.

• Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant synthesized in most tissues of the body and found in all cells. The highest concentration is found in the heart, kidneys, liver and pancreas. It is one of several coenzymes and is required for the conversion of energy from carbohydrates and fats in the synthesis of ATP. CoQ10 also protects cell membranes and DNA from oxidative damage.

Studies in people with high blood pressure showed a reduction in systolic blood pressure when they were treated with CoQ10. In humans with heart failure, CoQ10 therapy also increases cardiac output, improves contraction of the heart, and dilates the blood vessels necessary to allow normal bloodflow through the body.

In general, 1 mg of CoQ10 per pound of body weight one to two times daily is used for most animals with heart disease. It’s recommended that it be taken with a meal or a small amount of oil, since it is a fat soluble supplement.

• Hawthorn is an herb well known for its use in the

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Cralonin is a commonly used toxicology remedy for patients with heart disease, especially those with heart damage and older animals with heart disease. It contains several homeopathics including crataegus, spigelia and kali carbonicum.

Cactus compositum is another remedy useful for animals with circulatory disorders as well as heart weakness.

It also contains several homeopathics including kali carbonicum, spigelia, prunus and glonoinum.

In clinical practice, I will typically combine homotoxicology remedies with nutritional supplements and/or herbs to get the best response.

Unfortunately, heart disease cannot be prevented. The good news is that natural treatments may be able to delay or prevent mild heart disease from progressing to heart failure.

The best medicine These preventive solutions to common health problems use oligotherapy and homeopathy as their cornerstones for healing.

by Ann Brightman Albert, with his dog Tyko, is committed to improving quality of life for companion animals.

P

reventing or treating health problems in their early stages is always better than waiting till crisis strikes.

Albert Duoibes learned this the hard way when his college cat Snowball sickened and died without warning.

“I could do nothing for her, and felt that no one should have to go through this,” he says. “I realized animals need prevention, because they can’t tell you what’s going on in their bodies. While studying biomedical engineering, I wanted to develop a solution, and was led to natural medicine and homeopathic formulations.”

In 2006, Albert founded VETiONX, an online resource for natural animal care products. He’s also the owner of HelloLife, a similar resource for humans. “We know animals suffer from many of the same degenerative diseases as we do,” Albert says. “So we thought, why don’t we have the same support for animals?”

VETiONX offers six health care products for companion animals. Artho-IonX addresses arthritis and hip dysplasia.

“A new review gives us 144 success stories on this product and they are all phenomenal. People are seeing their aged animals spring back to life, and we couldn’t be more pleased.” Dia-IonX helps relieve the symptoms of diabetes, while Promaxol is specifically for pain management, important for animals with arthritis or injuries. “Prior options were prescription painkillers or aspirin – which have their drawbacks.”

All the supplements are liquid based. “Through research and development, we formulated the oligotherapy mineral

complex water base, which creates ease of delivery into the animal’s body, and also stimulates and accelerates the body’s natural healing process.” Oligotherapy uses small doses of trace minerals to help speed up metabolism at the cellular level and reduce free radical activity.

“We found even more benefits in homeopathy,” Albert continues. “Interestingly, animals don’t have a placebo effect – they either make progress or they don’t. Our products show there is definitely more to homeopathy than a placebo.”

Among the newest additions to the product line is H2OIonX. “This is a broad-based prevention solution for all animals. It works by optimizing hydration and digestion, so many of the symptoms due to dehydration and indigestion, such as anxiety, poor oral health and toxicity, are mitigated.”

The company is now developing a line of organic pet food and an online information center. “We have also partnered with California Coastal Horse Rescue and LifeHorse in Michigan and are in the process of building an information portal for people to post missing animals, animals in need, etc.”

What Albert and his colleagues love most about what they do is the positive feedback they receive. “We are grateful to all our customers, especially those who let us know we are improving quality of life for animals.”

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They look tough, but they have soft hearts when it comes to animals. Meet Rescue Ink, a group of bikers with a mission to save animals in danger.

by Barbara Nefer

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Johnny O and his two pit bull companions, Lucy and Chuck.

Big Ant and friend

Joe Panz is the leader of Rescue Ink.

New York biker, Joe Panz has been a street tough all his life and has faced some dangerous situations. One of the worst was when he was betrayed by people he thought were friends. They set him up and lured him into a bar where he was shot five times before escaping.

“I couldn’t go to the hospital because that’s the next place they would look for me,” he says. “I knew I had to go home, and I couldn’t depend on anyone for help because I didn’t know who was my friend and who was looking to finish the job.”

Joe did have one loyal ally – his Rottweiler. “They’re very keen dogs and know if something is wrong. That dog watched out for me all night. I knew he would protect me, no matter what, if someone came to the door.

My friends turned on me, but I could depend on that dog through thick and thin.”

For Joe it was a turning point. He’s always had a soft spot for animals, but his dog’s loyalty in the worst of times sealed his commitment to them. In 2007, along with two other biker buddies, Johnny O and Big Ant, he became one of the founding members of Rescue Ink (rescueink.org), a group of burly tattooed bikers dedicated to saving animals from dangerous and abusive situations. “I’m just paying back the favor,” Joe says. The group will handle virtually any situation where animals are in danger, from breaking up pit bull fighting rings to assisting hoarders. They’ve helped dogs, cats, horses, ducks, chickens, turtles and even fish. animal wellness

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Rescue Ink has a rotating membership, with anywhere from nine to 14 members actively participating at any given time. “We try to keep the group small so it’s agile,” Joe explains. “Guys come and go for different reasons. Some get burned out, some go on to other things. This is rough work, and we risk our lives daily. We never know what’s on the other side of a door or what we might be walking into, but we do whatever is necessary to get an animal out of a dangerous situation.” Rescue Ink also has a “den mother” named Mary Fayet who works tirelessly in the background to coordinate their efforts. She answers phone calls and emails and sends complaints to the appropriate people for investigation.

“We have many other people helping us,” Joe says. “Some are retired from the police force so they can check out individuals.

This includes getting photos of them and their cars, finding out their workplace and seeing if they are felons or have weapons or a violent history. We don’t want to get in a situation without knowing exactly what’s going on.”

If the situation warrants it, the perpetrator will get a visit from Rescue Ink and receive some re-education. The group keeps its tactics within the law, but Joe emphasizes, “We can be very convincing. Once they meet us, it usually takes care of the situation because they don’t want us coming back.”

Rescue Ink also gets involved in situations that tend to go along with animal abuse, like spousal or child abuse. “A lot of times we find there’s more going on when we investigate animal cruelty,” Joe says. “Abusers like to hone their skills on animals because they can’t talk and it’s easy to hide. They get more comfortable and turn on other helpless victims like women, children or the elderly. Some use the animal to show a woman what they will do to her if she tries to leave, or they threaten to kill the animal if she tries to go.”

veterinarians and vet techs donate their time to provide free services for elderly and housebound people. They also run an animal sanctuary upstate where animals are rehabilitated before adoption. Those that cannot work through aggression or other issues live out their lives at the sanctuary.

Of all the rescues the group has done, one stands out in Joe’s mind.

A Humane Society broke up a dog fighting ring in Kentucky and came across a dog that had been used for baiting. Bait dogs are like unwilling sparring partners and are used to train fighting dogs and get them used to blood. The dog was hiding in someone’s garage, eating out of their own dog’s bowls. The Humane Society dubbed him Ribbon because of his torn-up ears.

“We told them we would do whatever was necessary to save him,” says Joe. “We were assisted by Animal Rescue Flights, a group of volunteer plane owners who help us out a lot. We brought the dog to New York, had him vetted and nursed him back to health. We were going to adopt him out, but he really touched a chord because he’d been through such rough times and almost lost his life, but he pulled through. He reminded us of our own personal trials. We didn’t want him to ever get in a bad situation again, so we kept him. Now he’s our mascot, and we named him Rebel because we didn’t want him to have the stigma of his old name.”

Rescue Ink is funded entirely by donations and has garnered a lot of media attention. It started with a story in the New York Times that generated a huge response. Viking Books published a book about the group, and National Geographic is producing a television show. Meanwhile, the group is staying busy, both in New York and farther afield, doing whatever it takes to help animals at risk.

“We go wherever the need and our funds take us.”

Joe says the group hopes to break the cycle of violence by educating abusers. “Kids see violence in their neighborhoods and homes, they grow up and act the same way because they get desensitized. We make sure they know the proper way to treat people and animals. We make a good first impression and let them know we’ll be watching. Believe me, they don’t want another visit.” Rescue Ink also tackles the cycle at its roots by going into inner city and reform schools to educate kids about the humane treatment of animals. “We try to instill that you can be tough and still do the right thing,” Joe says.

The group has a hot rod pet ambulance that started out as a donated clunker. It was converted into a mobile clinic, and

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Joe shares a moment with Rebel, Rescue Ink’s mascot.

2010

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77

Breathing easy Respiratory congestion has numerous causes, but whatever the reason, it can make your dog or cat very uncomfortable. Getting to the root of the problem is the first step to alleviating his symptoms.

by Ann Brightman

I

f you’ve ever had bronchitis, or even just a bad cold, you know how awful it feels to not to be able to take a deep breath without coughing, congestion, pain and discomfort. Respiratory congestion can also occur in dogs and cats, for a variety of reasons. The good news is that, whatever the cause, there are things you can do to help your companion breathe more easily. We talked to veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk for his expertise and advice on the condition.

AWM: What is respiratory congestion?

MN: Congestion means fluid of some kind in the lungs.

This fluid can arise from many sources, such as infection, allergy, heart failure or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), sometimes called ‘old dog lung’.

AWM: What are the symptoms?

MN: Symptoms are similar no matter what the cause, but they differ in severity. They can include coughing, gagging up mucous, exercise intolerance, or excessive panting in the absence of heat or exercise, especially at

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night. Nasal symptoms may or may not be present. If there’s an infection, the animal usually also has a fever.

AWM: How is the condition diagnosed?

MN: Treatment depends on the cause, and diagnosis relies on the animal’s history – for example, is the problem seasonal, is the animal young or old, has he had exposure to kennels or dog parks? A physical examination will look for heart murmers, and also crackles and their location. Diagnostic tests most commonly include x-rays and blood tests. If a heart issue is suspected, then an electrocardiogram (EKG) and/or an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) are done.

AWM: What are the treatment options?

MN: Holistic and traditional treatments can be combined.

If allergy is the cause, conventional treatments include hyposensitization injections, steroids, antihistamines and possibly temporary diuretics. To that we could add herbs such as dandelion (diuretic), licorice (which has cortisone-like activity) and yucca (an anti-inflammatory).

Many Chinese herbal combinations could be used as well. Homeopathic remedies may be added, as well as glandulars to support the tissue.

Similarly, heart disease might be treated with cardiac drugs and diuretics, as well as dandelion, hawthorn, CoQ10 and glandulars.

COPD or “old dog lung” apparently arises for no discernable reason. We understand that joints “get old”, causing arthritis. Lungs “get old” too, causing pneumonitis, or an inflammation of the lung tissue itself. Diuretics and some of the herbs mentioned above would help this condition.

AWM: What about prevention?

MN: A healthier body “prevents” more illnesses from happening. So, if we eliminate food allergens and household and environmental allergens as best we can, feed healthy foods, do NAET to eliminate existing allergens in the body, strengthen weakened areas of the body with glandular and homeopathy, and minimize vaccinations – this creates less illness.

Sound wave therapy A newer technology that’s being used to alleviate respiratory congestion is the VibraVM acoustic percussor (vibravm.com). This veterinary medical device generates sound waves that vibrate and break up mucus so the animal can get rid of it. It can be used for problems in both the upper and lower respiratory system and for acute and chronic conditions.

The device can also act as a bronchodilator, relaxing muscles in the airway so they open up for increased airflow and easier breathing.

The animal usually responds rapidly to sound wave treatment, often with sneezing and an improvement in breathing. Because clearing the mucus and relaxing and opening the airways enhances airflow, blood is better oxygenated and the animal feels better all round.

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a

home

for

homeopathy Now in its second year, this Canadian college is dedicated to teaching animal homeopathy and getting vets and homeopaths working together for the well being of dogs and cats.

by Sandra Murphy Students take a break from their studies.

A

ngel had the worst case of demodex mange ever seen at the College of Animal Homeopathic Medicine. Displaced during the California wildfires of 2008, Angel was treated homeopathically at the college’s Healing Place Vet Clinic. Within a week, her skin was improving. After three weeks, fuzz appeared as her hair started to grow back. She also received supplements and ate a raw diet. Because her skin was still hypersensitive, she was massaged with organic coconut oil and lavender to remove the dead skin while moisturizing the new skin.

Now in good health, Angel has been adopted by Terri Stevenson, a homeopathic intern at the college.

Just two years old, the College of Animal Homeopathic Medicine (cahm.ca) in Vancouver was the brainchild of Julie Anne Lee. An overachiever and lifelong animal lover, Julie Anne helped at her mother’s animal shelter when she was growing up, and was a vet tech by the age of 19.

Now she’s a homeopath, has 22 rescue animals at home, and is the driving force behind the new college. The first of its kind in Canada, the college offers a three-year program in animal homeopathy to veterinarians, professional homeopaths and veterinary technicians.

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The college is housed in the Iona Building on the University of British Columbia campus.

The college treats animals of many species, including lizards.

+ What homeopathy does Basically, the goal of homeopathy is to achieve the best health using the least invasive procedures possible. “When applied correctly, homeopathy has the ability to bring the body back to its healthy, natural state,” says Julie Anne. The homeopath works to remove obstacles to good health. This includes not only using homeopathic remedies, but also making dietary changes, reducing vaccinations, discouraging routine use of flea or tick medicines and more.

Preventive measures play a big role as well.

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Bridging the gap CAHM has a board of directors and an advisory board made up of nine veterinarians, homeopaths and other professionals. There are also over half a dozen teachers and faculty. Their goal is to get vets and homeopaths working together for the well being of animals. Homeopathy is largely unregulated compared to veterinary practices, and Julie Anne feels the best way to avoid controversy between veterinarians and homeopaths is through learning. “We have vets and non-vets practicing together as a team,” she says. “It’s amazing to see how much each learns from the other.

The college promotes the integration of homeopathic animal medicine into traditional veterinary practice. It also aims to secure and advance the future of veterinary homeopathy by creating an alumni of like-minded qualified professionals to lead the way in bridging alternative and conventional medicines.”

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The program is in now its second year and instructors come from England and the United States to teach.

In order to be accepted into the college, students must be a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), a Professional Homeopath (DCH, CCH, RCSHom, RSHom or equivalent) or a Veterinary Technician (AHT or equivalent). However, thanks to the large number of additional people interested in the courses, the college is in the process of expanding its program and admission requirements. animal wellness

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Hands on approach The college is very hands on. Students work on cases, go into the field and have animals in class. The program is in now its second year and instructors come from England and the United States to teach. A fourth year of study is currently in the planning stages and will focus on research and proving what works.

Homeopaths in training study anatomy, pathology and physiology as well as the drugs veterinarians use to treat animals. Are there side effects to these drugs? What remedies can counter or delay these effects? If surgery is needed, what can be done in advance to make healing easier and faster?

Healing Place The Healing Place Vet Clinic associated with the college not only provides people with access to homeopathic and holistic care for their dogs, cats and other animals, but also gives students a chance to view cases and treatment plans. The clinic currently sees 15 animal families a day and has 4,000 clients overall. If you were to bring your own companion to the clinic, here’s what you could expect during a wellness exam:

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•T here are no examination tables. All exams are done on the floor, much to the relief of some dogs and cats.

•Y our animal is not whisked away to a back room for procedures.

• Plan on a crowd. You and your animal will be seen by at least two people – the vet and the homeopath – as well as students and interns.

• The first visit will take between an hour and an hour and a half.

• A homeopath works alongside a vet, studies the animal’s history and suggests remedies, supplements and antioxidants.

• The routine is to ask everything and then put together a health plan. Nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes play a big part in the health of any animal, including humans. Based on a study of the animal’s whole family, this plan is individualized to achieve the best possible results.

There are currently 26 students enrolled in the CAHM program, but given the interest the college has generated in just two years, the roster is sure to grow. “It’s becoming a bit of a force” says Julie Anne. An understatement from an overachiever.

Taking pride When it comes to oral health for dogs and cats, this company puts its money where its mouth is.

by Charlotte Walker

S

avvy animal guardians know a dog or cat’s overall well-being is profoundly affected by the health of his teeth and gums. It’s something Dr. Jeffrey Hillman, DMD, PhD, has been aware of for many years. “We know oral health impacts the health of the entire body,” he says.

Dr. Hillman drew on his years of experience as a Doctor of Dental Medicine to create an oral care solution for animals.

Formerly a Professor in the College of Dentistry at the University of Florida, Dr. Hillman is now the Chief Scientific Officer of Oragenics Inc. “I co-founded Oragenics to bring to market the fruits of research I had been working on for more than 25 years,” he says. “We’re a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing breakthrough technologies that address the leading social health concerns we face today, including infectious diseases, cancer and obesity.”

Although you might assume Teddy’s Pride was named after a dog, that’s not the case. “While the product was in the final stages of development, we interviewed large numbers of consumers and found most buyers unanimously connect with the name ‘Teddy’, many visualizing a cuddly teddy bear,” explains Dr. Hillman.

“We chose the word ‘Pride’ because it conveys how we feel about the product. It also represents a family of cats. The feedback we received when we put the two words together was tremendous – people immediately identified with the product and seemed to feel our intention in creating it.”

Oragenics develops technologies and products for humans and also offers one for animals, with more in the works. Teddy’s Pride is a probiotic oral care product for dogs and cats. “In my research, I was able to identify three specific strains of good bacteria that are present in a healthy mouth, but absent when disease occurs,” Dr. Hillman explains. “This work led to the development of ProBiora3, the active ingredient in Teddy’s Pride.”

A animal lover himself – “I am the proud father of one cat, and godfather to a large number of raccoons, squirrels, deer and birds who share my back yard” – Dr. Hillman is excited about Oragenics’ ongoing research into additional products for dogs and cats. We are currently researching several new technologies that have very promising applications for addressing several animal health conditions affecting millions of dogs and cats today.

The product is simply sprinkled on a dog or cat’s food.

“When eaten, the freeze-dried beneficial bacteria in the product come back to life and attach to the teeth and gums,” says Dr. Hillman. “Once attached, they interfere with the growth of certain bacteria largely responsible for bad breath. The beneficial bacteria also produce peroxide, which reduces staining on the animal’s teeth.”

“One of the great services animals offer to mankind is their ability to help us become better people,” Dr. Hillman continues. “Their unconditional love has a very positive effect on us, both emotionally and physiologically. Creating easy solutions that can help support the care and overall health of animals is very rewarding.”

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8

ways to fitness

Try these fun exercise ideas for a healthy, happy and well trained dog.

by Christina Shusterich, BA, CBC

E

xercise doesn’t just keep your dog healthy and extend his lifespan. It also reduces anxiety, builds confidence, provides an excellent way to connect and bond with your dog, and is a fun way to teach and maintain obedience. Here are eight ways you can exercise your dog to peak condition and have a great time in the process.

Just remember to check with your vet first, before starting your dog on a new exercise program.

1

Active commands are a wonderful way to exercise your dog, indoors or out, as well as harness and dispel hyperactive behavior due to excitement or anxiety. “Pushups” get rid of your dog’s excess energy through repetitious exercise.

They also train him to focus on you and your commands rather than his surroundings or hyperactive behavior triggers.

“Pushups” simply consist of having your dog face you and perform “sit” then “down” then “sit”, at which point he is treated and praised. With practice, many fast pushups can be performed for one treat. The treat can be gradually phased out, but always praise your dog. Potential situations in which “pushups” can be helpful are when

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greeting guests (they prevent the dog from jumping up on people) or while waiting in the vet’s office.

2

Aerobic exercise such as a brisk walk or romp in the park at the start of each day will keep your dog (and you!) in shape. It also significantly reduces anxiety throughout the day by keeping the dog tired and calm and by providing a dependable routine and bonding time with you.

3

A terrific way to provide daily aerobic exercise regardless of the weather is to bring a little agility indoors and train your dog to jump through a hula hoop – 15 to 20 minutes of jumping provides a physical workout that can be equivalent to a long jog or romp through the park.

To start, have the hula hoop touching the floor and have your dog sit or stand right before it. Toss a treat or toy upwards through the hoop and praise your dog as he walks through the hoop after it. If he is initially skittish of going through the hoop, lure him by holding the treat cupped in your hand to his nose and very slowly moving it through

15 to 20 minutes of jumping provides a physical workout that can be equivalent to a long jog or romp through the park. the hoop while giving plenty of praise. Over time, gradually raise the hoop inch by inch off the floor and pair the the treat or toy with a command such as “jump through” and a hand signal, which could simply be the motion of your hand tossing the treat. Once learned, treats can be thrown intermittently, then on a random basis. Part of the game can include searching for the treats once tossed; commands such as “go that way”, “go left” or “go right” can be added to give your dog a challenging mental workout. Make it fun for him by putting lots of encouragement and excitement in your voice.

4

Get in shape and stay fit with the perfect workout buddy – your dog! Some activities to partner in include Frisbee, jogging and biking. Bike attachments make it safe for you and your dog as he runs besides you. Be careful not to overdo it, especially when biking, and avoid vigorous exercise on hot days. Make sure you carry water for your dog as well as for yourself.

5

The “come/tag game” is a wonderful exercise and a marvelous way to train your dog to come off leash. Begin in a standing position facing each other. Putting playful excitement into your voice, say “come”, clap your hands and run away from your dog.

He’ll chase you. Stop after a short distance, face your dog, tell him to sit and reward him with praise and affection. Then set off again in a different direction. A toy can be used to entice your dog to chase you.

6

One of the best indoor or outdoor games is “fetch”. Incorporate obedience into the game by asking your dog to sit prior to throwing the toy. For the game to continue, teach him to give the toy back into your hand on command.

7

Besides being a popular trick and useful for agility, training your dog to circle involves an active command. By redirecting your dog’s energy and focus, circling works very well to prevent pacing, lunging and jumping when he’s excited.

To start, your dog needs to be standing in front of you. Slowly lure him with a treat or toy, keeping his head level and aiming for his flank, and praising him as he slowly circles. This will keep him moving. End the circle with your dog in his initial position, facing you. It is best to start with one circle at a time in each direction. You can name your circle commands “circle left” and “circle right”. As your dog masters this technique, he can do multiple circles in both directions. Counting each circle adds to the fun.

8

Organized sports to play with your dog include agility, flyball and earthdog.

These are fantastic ways to have fun, train and bond as well as socialize with other dog people and their canine companions.

Again, before starting any exercise program, check with your vet that the activity you have in mind is suitable for your dog’s age, health, size and current fitness level.

Then enjoy exercising your way to a healthier, calmer and happier companion! animal wellness

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passages

legacy

Meeko’s

by Brandi-Ann Uyemura

T

he other night I had an amazing dream. I was brushing my fingers through the soft black and white coat of my 14-year old sheltie Meeko. It was an ordinary moment made extraordinary by the fact she passed away in January.

It was a Saturday when we lost her. My mom held her paw as the vet put her to sleep. I was in a different state at the time, stunned by another sad scene in front of me. A German shepherd lay motionless on the freeway, seemingly untouched, eyes closed and head on his crossed front paws. The time was 5:30pm, the exact time Meeko passed away. It’s hard not to think it was a sign from Meeko, saying goodbye.

For my mom, the loss was traumatic but she’d had time to prepare. “Meeko made it easy for us because she got sick slowly,” she said. As for me, I only saw Meeko three times a year. The last time was August, when she was still relatively well. Although her coat was starting to gray, and she stopped barking whenever trucks passed because she couldn’t hear them anymore, she seemed healthy. Strangers who saw her would often mistake her for a puppy. And when she refused to play tug-of-war with me, I assumed it was just Meeko being Meeko. A trickster at heart, she’d often fool me by pretending to get excited to see me from a distance. Her tail would wag and she’d pick up speed. My mom would let go of her leash and we’d run toward one another like two kids in love. Then, when she got close, she’d stop, turn around and walk back to my mom.

That’s why it was only after I left last August that my mom and her boyfriend Ray thought something was seriously wrong with Meeko. At first they thought her vomiting was a reaction to the people installing an air conditioner in the house. But

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when they took her to the vet as a precaution, they learned she had a fever and her liver was swollen. After taking an ultrasound to rule out a tumor, the vet said the only way to know for sure was to do a biopsy. Since Meeko’s heart was weak and she was old, they decided not to go through with the procedure. The antibiotics she was prescribed seemed to work, so life went on. Thinking she would be okay, I decided to pass on visiting her and my family in December.

But from September onward, Meeko gradually got weaker. She went from a foodcrazed dog that grabbed anything she could find to being picky about what she ate. Her weight fell from 25 to 17 pounds. By the end of January, she was much worse. She threw up all night and was so weak she couldn’t walk.

My mom and Ray took her to the vet and left her overnight, hoping for a miracle. On Saturday, January 30, the vet said Meeko still had a fever and was no longer responding to medication. It was time to say goodbye. Meeko’s eyes were glassy and she was weak. She found the strength to stand up when my mom came to get her, but immediately collapsed in her arms.

My heart breaks every time I think of all the times Meeko was waiting for me at the front door when I went home. It hurts that I didn’t go see her when I had the chance, and I wonder if she was waiting for me to come home as I did every Christmas. Yet I find solace in knowing Meeko’s life is more than just the moments before her death. It’s in the memory of her 15 years of life.

I think about her as a pup and how she was booted out of training class for being “too wild”. Or how she would cry at night unless I slept on the floor next to her crate, holding her paw. When she got older, she would sleep right on top of my head to feel the cool breezes coming through my window. Perhaps her greatest gift was what she did for my mom. When we first got Meeko, she said, “Don’t think I’m going to take care of it. It’s your dog!” Now she says, “Thank you for bringing Meeko into our lives! She’s opened my heart to loving again.”

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Book reviews

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Title:

High-Energy Dogs

Author:

Tracy Libby

Border collies, Australian shepherds and similar breeds need lots of activity and exercise in order to stay happy, healthy and well-adjusted. Trouble is, a lot of people adopt these dogs without realizing how much stimulation they need. In HighEnergy Dogs, author Tracy Libby tells you how to raise, train and manage the needs and exercise requirements of intelligent, driven dogs.

Learn how to understand your dog’s behavior and body language and why high-energy dogs do what they do. The next section is all about training, from using positive, rewardbased methods to solving problem behaviors and using play training to help teach basic manners and prevent boredom. You’ll discover new organized sports and activities perfect for high-drive dogs, such as agility, herding, flyball, jogging and more.

Filled with color photos and useful tips, High-Energy Dogs has many keys to keeping your active canine physically and mentally stimulated – and in good shape for years to come.

Publisher: TFH Publications

Title: The

Natural Cat

Author: Anitra

Frazier with Norma Eckroate

Cats are especially sensitive to toxins, whether it’s food additives or flea control products. It’s no wonder that so many cat lovers are looking for more natural ways to keep their feline friends in good health.

Originally published in 1981, The Natural Cat has been re-issued in revised and expanded form for a new generation of readers. Written by Anitra Frazier, executive director of Natural Cat, a holistic house call service providing holistic health care and grooming to the felines of New York City, and co-author Norma Eckroate, this classic guide has advice on everything from diet and grooming to common health and behavioral problems and interspecies communication. You’ll also read tips on how to find a holistic vet, build up your cat’s immune system, and care for your senior kitty.

With a foreword by renowned veterinarian Dr. Richard Pitcairn, The Natural Cat is a valuable book for anyone who wants to care for their cat holistically.

Publisher: Plume

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The Divine Life of Animals

Title:

Author:

Ptolemy Tompkins

Most people who have lost a beloved animal companion would like to believe their souls live on after death. In his revealing new book, The Divine Life of Animals, author Ptolemy Tompkins acknowledges animals as fellow soul beings and plunges deep into the past to explore how humans have viewed the animal soul throughout the ages.

Along with the fascinating historical background, Tompkins also includes stories from present-day animal lovers whose amazing experiences demonstrate that death isn’t the end, whether the animal in question is a dog, horse, rabbit or a wild bear. In some cases, the stories focus on deceased animals that communicate with their human companions in vivid dreams, while in others, the animals appear as spirits or transmit messages to their grieving families.

An inspiring and moving read, The Divine Life of Animals leads Tompkins to a thoughtprovoking conclusion: “Animals don’t simply go to heaven along with us. In some absolutely mysterious but absolutely central way, they go to heaven because of us.”

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Parenting Your Dog

Trish King, CPDT, CDBC

Author:

It’s easy to forget how energetic and mischievous puppies are after you’ve lived with an adult dog for many years. So adopting a new pup may present some challenges and surprises that you weren’t expecting. Trainer Trish King takes you through all the life stages of the canine in her new book Parenting Your Dog. She points out that raising a dog can be compared to raising a child, and that it should be a labor of love that pays special attention to each dog’s unique and varied needs.

The book presents tips on choosing a canine companion at any life stage -- from puppyhood and adolescence to adulthood and old age -- and what to consider and look for when making your selection. Each section covers the training and behaviorial issues you might encounter at different ages, and how to deal with them. There’s advice on puppy socialization, house manners, obedience training, activities for older dogs, and much more.

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corn or soy CD salt, sugar or preservatives Perfect for dogs with sensitive digestive systems & allergies!

Whether you’re adopting an eight-week-old puppy or a 12-year-old senior, this book will help ensure you end up with a loving, well-trained companion.

Publisher: TFH Publications animal wellness

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ANESTHESIA

Teeth cleaning for dogs.

Vet Supervised!

Dr.Turie Norman, DVM

The Director of Well Animal Institute

303-514-0076 | www.wellanimalinstitute.com

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Classifieds Animal Behavior Consultants JUDITH LEVY M.Ed.,CEHP - Is a highly sought after and acclaimed cat and dog behavior consultant. Through combining traditional behavioral methods with Reiki, TFT and Flower Essences, Judith is renowned for addressing behavioral issues with a 360º whole animal approach.

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Animal Communicators LYNN McKENZIE, International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing. Create harmony and awareness in your relationships, restore health, improve behavior, enhance performance, resolve conflict, connect with animals that have crossed over. Workshops and lessons available. Coming soon, correspondence and internet training in Animal Energy Healing. www.animalenergy. com, lynn@animalenergy.com, (214) 615-6506, Ext. 8642.

CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide. Share your Love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults (315) 329-0116 angelwhispurr@gmail.com www.ark-angels.org END OF LIFE DECISIONS – Gain Peace of Mind knowing what your animal friend is truly feeling and desires as the time nears for passing. Receive Support, Compassion & Understanding. Animal Communication with Love. Morgine 360-247-7284 Pacific morgine@tds.net www.communicationswithlove.com SUE BECKER – Interspecies Communication, Registered Practitioner of Tellington TTouch and Bach Flower Remedies. Resolve problems and stress, improve behavior, deepen understanding and your relationship. Emotional healing, animals in spirit. Consultations by phone/in person, lectures, workshops.

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Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/ behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. www.animaltalkhealing.com http://www.animaltalkhealing.com (509) 526-5020 INGRID BRAMMER – On-line classes, on-site workshops, and home study programs available that will teach you how to intuitively communicate with animals with explanation of how it is possible. Contact Ingrid (705) 7423297 or ibrammer@sympatico.ca or www.animalillumination.com CAROL SCHULTZ - Animal Communicator/Interspecies Life Coach. Interactive, compassionate and insightful Consultations and Healing for all animal species. (815) 531-2850 www.carolschultz.com Founder/ Director of www.AnimalSpiritNetwork. com online learning institute, Animal Healing Arts Education and Professional Development.

Animal Health GENEFLORA FOR PETS – Naturally Building Your Pet’s Health With Every Scoop. Recommended by Veterinarians, Groomers, Breeders and Animal Lovers Just Like You! www.Cycles-of-Life.com or call: (800) 498-6640.

HOLISTIC PET INFO – Natural pet products and information on animal diseases. Free educational videos.

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Books & Publications

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Nutritional excellence in our pet food. Step up to Great Life! www. greatlife4pets.com 1-805-577-9663 email 4greatlife@sbcglobal.net CRANIMALS PET PRODUCTS IS EXPANDING WORLDWIDE - We need distributors and retailers (USA, Canada, UK, Japan, Australia, NZ). We offer superb sales support and generous starting specials.

Email: distributors@cranimal.com, phone: (360) 326-6446 ext 1, www.cranimal.com STARFISH DISTRIBUTING - USA Importers of N-R-G 100% natural dehydrated whole dog food from Canada. Looking for quality retailers and distributors who want to carry this amazing dog food. www. starfishdistribution.com info@ starfishdistribution.com BUDDY BEDS - Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Beds. Voted “Best Pet Bed”

by Pet Age Magazine. Eliminates all painful pressure points. Waterproof liner protects the memory foam. Vet Recommended. www.buddybeds.com (303) 744-0424

Business Opportunities

NATURE’S ORGANIC PET - Produces the highest quality products that contain a unique combination of ingredients specifically formulated by a veterinarian to help promote your pet’s health and well-being. (310) 266-6845 jeffrey@naturesorganicpet.com

PET LOVERS WANTED - Join a team of home based business owners. Great tax deductions. Earn $700-3,000/mo. very part time. Not sales. Do what you already do. Call Michelle at (561) 7025459. www.oxyfreshww.com/michelle/

DR GOODPET - Since 1984, we have been promoting the good health of dogs and cats through our high-quality and award-winning products! (800) 222-9932 tel (310) 672-4287 fax info@ goodpet.com

1000s OF DOG BOOKS, DVDs AND TRAINING TOOLS IN STOCK - Ready to ship. Dogwise has what you want!

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NORTHWEST NATURALS - #1 frozen RAW pet food – Best valaue in RAW frozen pet food – Most convenient – IW Bars and Nuggets – USDA raw materials – USDA facilities – Become a Distributor/Retailer today! www.rawnaturalpetfood.com (503) 517-9800 PAIN RELIEF THERAPY FOR PETS AND THEIR PARENTS - Interested in selling Pet’em Pad Electromagnetic Therapy products? Visit www. petempad.com for product and Dealer information, or E-mail Robert@ emsolution.biz. (623) 444-9547. www. emsolution.biz ONESTA ORGANICS - Hypoallergenic, whole food-based functional pet food products are 100% manufactured in the USA. They’re USDA certified organic and free of pesticides, hormones, and GMOs. www.onestaorganics.com. Phone (619) 295-1136 PRIMAL PET FOODS – Our products incorporate the freshest, 100% humangrade ingredients offering your pet nutrient-dense, highly digestible foods and treats. For product information, visit primalpetfoods.com or call (866) 566-4652.

ROTATIONS PET FOOD - It’s a revolutionary feeding system that addresses all your pets dietary needs with a full balanced, smoothly integrated mix of proteins, vitamins and minerals.

All in one complete package- three separate bags in one box, providing your pet with flavour, the variety, and ingredients he requires for good health. Inquiries @ 949-614-8190 or www.rotationspetfood.com

Dog Walking/Pet Sitting HOME ALONE PROFESSIONAL PET CARE - Toronto dog walking & cat sitting, customized for your furry friend and to fit your busy lifestyle.

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Energy Health Practitioners JUDITH LEVY M.Ed., CEHP - Certified Energy Health Practitioner and acclaimed Canine and Feline Behavior Consultant. Through combining Best Friend Reiki Therapy, Thought Field Therapy (foremost revolutionary Energy Psychology healing technique) Flower Essences and traditional behavior modification, Judith is renowned for addressing energetic disturbances that cause behavioral and physical health imbalance as well as end of life issues for pets.

Telephone and Skype consultations available. Testimonials: www.judithlevypetcare.com/testimonials judith@ juditlevypetcare.com (412) 521-5133

Continued on next page animal wellness

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Classifieds Flower Essence Therapy

Holistic Veterinarians

RESOLVE YOUR PET’S ISSUES! - Individualized formulas chosen from 1,000 available essences. In depth phone consultations, 25 years experience, proven track record. For information and appointment contact Judy Aizuss, M.S., 415-459-2383, judy@ essentialhealingbyjudy.com. www. essentialhealingbyjudy.com

EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC HOLISTIC CENTRE - Dr. Paul McCutcheon & Dr. Cindy Kneebone.

We provide a wide variety of integrative diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Please visit our website to explore our services. www.holisticpetvet.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com 416-757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7

ALDARON ANIMAL ESSENCES - Bach Flower remedies for behavioral wellness. Our behavior support formulas gently, safely reduce fears and reactivity, improve stress thresholds, facilitate recovery from emotional trauma, and more. Formula line and custom blends available. Free US shipping. www.aldaronessences.com

Food & Treats FRESH HOMEMADE JERKY’S Doggie’s Unlimited offers three fresh jerky’s for your pets. Paw “lickin” Good Beef Jerky, Caymus’s Chicken Jerky and Jayden’s Turkey Jerky. All made with fresh meat and six vegetables. Made fresh and shipped same day to insure freshness.

Visit us at: www.doggiesunlimited.com SunnyPaw - Vegan, gluten-free, organic SNACKS for your dog - solid red oak FEEDING STATIONS - organic cotton hand-knit WALKING SCARVES. We make things good for you, your pet, and our planet! 484-879-2998 www.SunnyPaw.com

ESSEX ANIMAL HOSPITAL, REHAB & K-9 FITNESS CENTRE – Dr. Janice Huntingford, Dr. Glen Porteous, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional and Alternative Medicine and Surgery. Herbal Therapies and Holistic Medicine, Pet Massage, Physio, Therapy Pool, Underwater Treadmill and Rehab Therapy. Phone consultations available. (519) 776-7325 Essex ON. essexanimalclinic@cogeco. net www.essexanimalhospital.ca GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL - Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the animal and client. Guelph Animal Hospital (519) 836-2782 www.guelphvet.com

EVOLUTION DIET PET FOODS; ERIC WEISMAN, DOCTOR OF HEALTH SCIENCE CONSULTING SERVICES 20th Year. Support our Totally No-Kill Pet Rescue: Purchase Evolution Diet. Virtually Only Pet Food NOT USING ANY Factory Animal Slave Farm Ingredients, Steroid Growth Hormones, Antibiotics, Chicken Meal Fish Meal, Documented Healthy Dogs 19+ Human Years, Cats 22+. www. evolutiondietpetfood.com. U.S. (800) 659-0104; CANADA (888) 683-738

NEWKIRK FAMILY VETERINARIANS (FORMERLY MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL) AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER - Dr. Mark Newkirk, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Metabolic Nutritional Analysis, Ozone Treatments, Laser Pain Therapy, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination), Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Alternative Cancer Therapies. Phone consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031

Healing Essences

Paw Protection

PETS HAVE EMOTIONS TOO! Canadian Forest Tree Essences offers Vibrational Tree Essences for cats, dogs, horses, alpacas and other animals… Available for vets, animal communicators, retailers and individuals.

Web: www.essences.ca, Email: cfte@ essences.ca, Tel. (888) 410-4325.

TAMMY AND TEDDY’S BOOTIES AND MORE - Custom made boots for healthy and special needs dogs.

Highest quality available. Fit guaranteed. Hand crafted in the USA. www. tammyandteddys.com Phone number (860) 749-6552.

Pet Portraits ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS - Specializing in oil painting for 31 years. Nationwide clientele. Portraits of any pet of your choice. Credit card, personal check or money order. 44

ORDER YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

Church St., Tilton, NH 03276. (603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.com PET PORTRAITS HAND ENGRAVED ON GLASS! - One of a kind piece of art sits on lighted wood base. Several base styles and colors available.

Contact: Pawlik Products, LLC; Madison, WI (608) 630-8332 www. comfycozypetfurniture.com

Reiki ANIMAL REIKI SOURCE - The leader in Animal Reiki Education: Animal Reiki Training Programs, Practitioner Directory, informational articles, free e-newsletter, monthly telemeeting and many more resources. For more information visit: www.animalreikisource.com HEALING WITH LOVE - NOT DRUGS - Gentle Reiki treatments for animals and their people by an Usui Master.

“Amazing!”--RR, NYC. “Purrcival hasn’t been this lively in ages.”--DKA, NJ BernieLibster@optonline.net (201) 288-8617 FOR ANIMALS NEEDING HEALING AND SUPPORT – Reiki (distance and in-person), Flower Essence and essential oil recommendations, Telepathic connections – contact Alison at alkruk@earthlink.net or visit www.alisonkruk.com Small classes also offered.

REIKI FUR BABIES - One price - two Reiki practitioners! Exponential healing energy! Candy hears what your animal is saying. Ming pinpoints disease and sends healing angels.

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Clients in over 20 countries. http:// www.reikifurbabies.com/testimonials/

Rescues & Shelters ROMANIAN SHELTERS - 450 animals need your support for food, sterilization! Please help tails to wag!

Visit our website www.rolda.org for updates. ROLDA 501-(c)-3 charity in USA, EIN: 32-0176929.

Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & THERAPIES - Hands-on training for small animal massage therapy providers at locations in IL, WI, VA, and NC. Learn to work with animals safely, effectively, and professionally from an experienced instructor. info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com (847) 782-1963 (voice) www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com (847) 782-5725 (fax)

LEARN THE PetMassageTM METHOD FOR CANINE MASSAGE – Original PetMassageTM Books, DVD’s and CD’s, home study courses and workshops. 7-Day Foundation Workshop 7-Day Advanced Workshop, 5-Day PetMassage WaterWorkTM (canine swimming pool massage), NCBTMB CE hours for all on-site workshops.

Sign up for FREE Online newsletter www.petmassage.com 800-779-1001 ANIMAL HEALING ARTS TRAINING & CERTIFICATE STUDY PROGRAMS - Animal Spirit Healing & Education® Network provides distance learning and on-site courses in Animal Communication, Shamanic Animal Healing, Animal Reiki, Grief Support Skills, Flower Essences, Species Behavior, Tellington TTouch, and Holistic Animal Health. Learn more at www.AnimalSpiritNetwork.com or contact Founder, Carol Schultz, (815) 5312850, info@animalspiritnetwork.com INTERNATIONAL ASSN. OF ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK - www.

IAAMB.org Professional association supports, networks and promotes complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, referrals, newsletters, insurance, conferences, lobbying and credentialing. Welcome practitioners of animal massage and bodywork. (800) 903-9350 TREETOPS (est. 1991) - Offers comprehensive certification programs in canine massage, equine massage, first aid, herbal remedies. Distance learning and online instruction available. Details at www.treetopsweb.com or www.e-trainingfordogs.com or (866) 919-TREE (8733) ANIMAL BEHAVIOR DEGREES ONLINE- Associates, Bachelors, Masters in Dog Training, Companion Animal Science, Behavior Counseling and Shelter Administration 12-week online semesters. 5-day labs with animals, Externships in your community. Financial assistance. American College of Applied Science (800) 403-DEGREE (3347) www.amcollege. us FLDOE,CIE #3145 THE INQUISITIVE CANINE - Fun, rewarding, interactive, training resources dedicated to empowering dog guardians with a rewarding education that will help them further develop and enhance their everyday relationships with their dogs. Contact us http://www.inquisitivecanine.com/ or call: 805-650-8500

1-866-764-1212 or classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Animal Wellness Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising submitted, make stylistic changes or cancel any advertising accepted upon refund of payment made.

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Events PetMassage 7-Day Foundation Workshop July 11-17, 2010 Toledo, OH This Seven-Day Foundation Workshop is an excellent beginning to your hands-on learning experience. We acknowledge that no one can become an “expert” at anything in just seven days. However, this course is a good preparation to become adept at the basic skills of PetMassageTM. Learn to help your own dogs. And train to create your successful start-up PetMassageTM business. To prepare for this workshop, you will study the Effective PetMassageTM for Dogs DVD’s and Manual, and 2 books, Creating & Marketing Your Animal Massage Business and Dog Anatomy Coloring Atlas.

Workshops have small classes – usually eight to twelve students. They are about 30% lecture, 60% hands-on, 10% playing with dogs and 100% growth and enjoyment.

Lectures and demonstrations use models, charts, videos, other text references and the class syllabus.

For more information Beth Farkas 1800-779-1001 info@petmassage.com www.petmassage.com Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage July 23-25, 2010 Grafton, WI This class includes evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy; instruction in sports massage; an examination of practical business issues; an introduction to other holistic modalities used with animals; and, whenever possible, a visit to a shelter or rescue to work with the animals.

For more information 262-376-1011 grafton@blueskyedu.org www.blueskyedu.org

Sports Massage July 31, 2010 6-9pm Central Bark Doggy Day Care Manitowoc, WI Sports Massage uses techniques adapted from Swedish massage, Russian sports massage, and other formats. These techniques are used at differing tempos and pressures to produce very different effects: enlivening and activating tissues prior to competition; maintaining peak efficiency between runs or events; and clearing and soothing tissues after the completion of competition.

Animal Communication Advanced I - The Deepening October 9-11,2010 Traveller’s Rest Equine Elders Sanctuary, Spotsylvania, VA This class is for those who have completed the Basic 2 Day Animal Communication course and wish to continue to deepen their connection with animals. Leave the hustle and bustle of your day to day life behind for a few days and connect deeply with all that is. This class is for those who want more knowledge, direction and inspiration to deepen their connection and experience.

Class size is limited to eight participants in order to allow for observation of each participant’s work, provide time to address individual concerns, and maximize personal attention.

PREREQUISITES: The Basic 2 day course.

You may also take this workshop if you have completed a basic animal communication course with another teacher. Please email Janet with details such as: date of class, location, teacher’s name, and write what you learned or gained from the class and how you have applied your animal communication skills.

For more information 847-782-1963 info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com MS102: Introduction to Animal Astrology for Animal Intuitive Instructor: Diane Samsel August 11, 2010 Internationally available teleclass The Sun, the Moon and the Planets have direct influence on our animal companions, just as they do us! These astrological influences often hold a key that uncovers deep and hidden aspects that affect the behavior and well-being of your client animals.

For more information Carol Schultz 815-531-2850 carol@animalspiritnetwork.com http://tinyurl.com/yfhr66v

For more information Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com

Subscribe Today!

1-866-764-1212 www.FelineWellness.com

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

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Tail end

Always a cat lover....

by Ron Sullivan

T

hen along came Charlie, a little bundle of black dynamite, a wriggling package that explodes into barks and whimpers at the most ungodly hours.

I’d devoted the past 15 years of my life to Boots the fat cat, and Whiskers the svelte cat. Cats are clean, quiet, soft and cuddly. No muss. No fuss. Why change such a perfect relationship?

For Charlie dog’s sake, that’s why.

When he first arrived, the little black Lab slipped and slid out of control across the kitchen floor. At top speed, he clambered toward the living room carpet, peed with great purpose and little guilt, then flopped happily on a beanbag cushion.

Charlie was home.

As the months went on, Charlie cuddled, romped, nudged and touched his way into my heart. He unwittingly taught me understanding and patience – understanding when his over-zealous wagging tail smacked me in a region of extreme tenderness, and patience when, bent over in great pain, I smiled between clenched teeth and said, “That’s all right, Charlie. It really doesn’t hurt.”

Those large brown eyes continued to stare up at me day after day as Charlie worked his magic. Even Boots and Whiskers accepted him. They watched with caution as he snuggled beside me on the couch, their curious cat eyes only inches away from his expectant doggy face.

“That Charlie of yours has suckered me right into the palm of his paw,” I said to my family, who rolled their eyes in unison at yet another of Dad’s indiscretions. They watched with great amusement while time rolled on and Charlie frolicked deeper into my too-busy life.

“He’s almost human, the way he greets me with that raised paw of his,” I said to my wife. “It’s nothing short of a handshake, for Pete’s sake!”

Like a shy and timid child, Charlie hid behind me whenever we met other dogs and their owners on our walks.

Only when I assured him with hugs and kisses that these strangers were nothing but bark and talk, did he peek sheepishly from behind my pant leg.

Some days, after miles of walking, I couldn’t wait to head for a tub of hot water to ease my aching bones. When I half-jokingly said, “Hey, I think Charlie would happily soak in the tub right alongside me,” my wife abruptly yelled from the bedroom: “Not a chance, doggy boy.

Next thing I know I’ll find you both brushing your teeth at the bathroom sink.”

“Well, I suppose one does have to accept limits in life,” I muttered. “Right, Charlie?”

Our lives have changed since then. My wife and I live apart now and I’m on my own again. I miss my animal friends. But thankfully, because of my wife’s understanding nature, I have visiting rights with Boots and Whiskers – and that wonderful dog named Charlie.

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

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