V13I1 (Feb/Mar 2011)

ANIMAL WELLNESS

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

AnimalWELLNESS For a long, healthy life!

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Contents February/March 2011

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features 18 Emergency!

Would you know what to do if your dog collapsed or your cat stopped breathing? If not, you might want to consider taking a first aid or CPR class for companion animals.

22 Wrapped in love

How one woman and her dog led to a unique organization that helps shelter dogs and cats stay warm, comfy and happy.

26 Address stress!

Adaptogens are a unique group of herbs that can help him cope better and adapt to life’s stressors – both physically and emotionally.

34 Creaky joints?

Osteoarthritis is the most common skeletal disorder affecting dogs and cats.

Here’s a look at what’s new – and what’s tried and true – in treatment options.

41 The SRI piggy-bank

Make your money speak for you by choosing socially responsible investments that factor in animal welfare, environmental accountability or humanitarian policies.

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45 Making a difference

How a drinks coaster became the starting point for an eco-friendly pet products business.

46 Look inside

You know what arthritis is, but how and why does it actually occur, and what happens inside the affected joint? Here’s a close-up look at the pathology of this common disease.

58 Pain be gone

Forget drugs or surgery. Prolotherapy is an effective and non-invasive way to alleviate chronic joint pain in your companion.

70 8 tasty toppers

These recipes pack a punch of flavor and nutrition, and they’re simple to make and serve. Just use them as a sauce or garnish for her regular meals, and watch her enjoy!

74 Bridging the gap

A growing number of pet stores are working with rescues to adopt out homeless animals rather than sell dogs and cats from puppy mills and backyard breeders.

66 Short fuse?

80 7 steps to finding a lost animal

69 Driven by passion

84 Redo for rehab

If your dog becomes aggressive, don’t assume it’s a behavioral problem or that he’s just being “bad”. It could mean he’s ill or in pain.

Concerned about the use of anesthesia during dental scalings, two animal-loving entrepreneurs were motivated to develop a safer simpler way to keep teeth clean and mouths healthy.

Don’t push the panic button if Fido or Fluffy runs away or goes missing. Instead, follow these suggestions to help him get back safe and sound.

Is your companion in need of home care and rehabilitation? Here are some safety and design tips to help ensure his comfort and recovery.

18 Columns 14

Yakkity yak

30 Case study 50 Talking with Dr. Martin Goldstein

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54 Warm & fuzzy 87 Book reviews

Departments

90 Passages 98 Tail end

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Editorial

12 Mail bag 44 Product picks 62 Animal Wellness resource guide 78 The Scoop 89 Events Calendar 92 Ad Spots 96 Classifieds

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Get your 3rd year for $1!

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

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

Volume 13 Issue 1

Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Meaghan McGowan Graphic Designer: Deanna Hall Cover Photography: Daniela Jakob Columnists & Contributing Writers Esta Bianchi Janet Caplan Audi Donamor Martin Goldstein, DVM Janice Huntingford, DVM Sara Jackson Christine King, BVSc, MACVSc, MVetClinStud Ellen Kohn Karen Mangini Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Barb Nefer DeAnna Radaj Rona Sherebrin, DVM, CVA Erika Sorocco Debbie Swanson Lewis Turner Paula Turner Charlotte Walker 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!

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On the cover photograph by:

Daniela Jakob

This little guy looks like he’s having a great time playing in the fresh air! Regular play and exercise are vital to a dog’s health and happiness, but it can be hard when he’s suffering from arthritis and other joint problems. Depending on your pooch’s age and condition, vigorous games of fetch like this might not be a part of his regime, but it’s important he gets outdoors every day for some fun and activity!

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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: Ann Beacom, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Advertising Sales Cont...

Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue is $19.00 in the U.S. and $26.00 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© 2011. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: January 2011.

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editorial Keeping them moving W

hen my dog Alice was a youngster, one of her favorite pastimes, winter or summer, was to chase after a rubber pull toy that I’d throw down the yard for her. I can still see her hurtling gleefully after the toy as it sailed through the air, and racing back with it so I could throw it again – and again and again!

We must have gone through a dozen of those toys (all in bright colors so I could find them easily in long grass) before Alice finally got too old to do much running anymore.

By the time she was nine or ten, our play sessions were getting shorter and I wasn’t throwing the toy as far. When she reached the age of 12, her joints were growing stiff, so I regretfully put the toy away for good. From then on, we stuck to leisurely walks when out for exercise.

Like it or not, all our animal companions will one day lose their youthful energy and flexibility and start slowing down. Their legs may become stiff and sore, and it might get harder for them to jump on the sofa or navigate stairs.

Arthritis and other joint issues are common problems for most older dogs and cats. While there’s no real cure for these disorders, there’s lots you can do to alleviate and even help prevent them. That’s what this issue is all about.

Take a look at some amazing new treatments – including laser therapy and hyaluronic acid – that are showing excellent results when used to treat arthritis. We also cover time-tested holistic remedies such as chiropractic, therapeutic magnets and natural joint supplements. If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens inside an arthritic joint, turn to page 46 for a fascinating close-up look

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at the pathology of the disease. Learn about prolotherapy, a safe, non-invasive way to treat chronic joint pain, and find out how adaptogenic herbs can (among many other things) increase resilience and stamina in working and senior dogs. Last but not least, we offer tips on how to adapt your home to safely accommodate an animal recovering from injury, surgery or illness.

As winter starts to turn towards spring, you might be thinking about adopting another furry friend – if so, you’ll want to read about pet stores that have stopped selling animals and are instead working with shelters and rescues to adopt out homeless dogs and cats. And if Rover ever strays, our seven steps to finding a lost dog will help ensure he gets home safely again. The issue also includes healthy homemade meal toppers to try, and takes a look at first aid/CPR classes for dogs and cats, animal-friendly investment funds, and some of the medical causes for canine aggression.

Happy winter reading!

Ann Brightman Managing Editor

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contributors

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1. Holistic veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford practices integrative medicine in Essex, Ontario. She is certified in animal chiropractic, acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy. Her clinic features a state of the art underwater treadmill and fitness pool for dogs. Dr. Huntingford is married and lives on a farm/winery complete with horses, cattle, chickens, cats, dogs and three children. Learn about the pathology of arthritis in her article on page 46.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Christine King hails from Australia and lives and works in Ashland, Oregon. Her Master’s degree in Veterinary Clinical Studies from the University of Sydney focused on internal medicine and exercise physiology. More articles on these and other animal health topics can be found on Dr. King’s website at animavet.com. In this issue, she discusses the benefits of adaptogenic herbs – see page 26.

3. Audi Donamor has been creating special needs diets for dogs and cats 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

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the only two-time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril Kennel Trophy for the Human/Animal Bond. On page 70, Audi offers some tasty meal topper recipes for dogs and cats.

4. 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 edition (page 34), he looks at both new and time-tested therapies for arthritis.

5. Veterinarian Dr. Rona Sherebrin has been practicing integrative medicine for eight years, with a focus on Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. She graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1991, and became a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist in 2005. She is the Regional Delegate for the Association of Veterinary Acupuncturists of Canada.

She cares for animals at the Secord Animal Hospital in Toronto. Turn to

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page 58 for Dr. Sherebrin’s article on prolotherapy.

6. 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 is 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). Sara discusses ten medical causes of canine aggression on page 66.

7. 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 Operation Blankets of Love, an organization that makes life more comfortable for shelter animals, turn to page 22.

8. Debbie Swanson is a freelance writer living near Boston. She contributes regularly to many animal magazines, and lives with her family and a collie named Duncan. In this issue (page 41), Debbie looks an animal-friendly mutual funds and other investment options.

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9. DeAnna Radaj is the owner of Bante Design LLC, an integrative lifestyle design company that fuses Eastern and Western philosophies. She is a nationally recognized speaker and author and has appeared on numerous TV and radio shows; visit bantedesign.com for a list of all workshops and appearances.

DeAnna is also an avid adventure traveler and nature photographer, and lives in Milwaukee with her two dogs. For her advice on home design for animals in rehab, see page 84.

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10.Paula and Lewis Turner ran The PetCare Company from 1991 to 2009.

During that period, their store achieved recognition from the community and was presented with an Award of Merit from the SPCA for hundreds of adoptions via their mobile adoption program. Paula and Lewis live in Torrance, California and are hugged and kissed daily by their two Papillions -- Nikko and Lilly -- and Buzz, a Myers parrot. See page 74 for their article on pet stores that work with rescues rather than sell animals.

Erika Sorocco is a freelance writer and member of the Cat Writers’ Association.

She lives in Southern California. Her work has appeared in numerous publications both nationally and internationally. Turn to page 80 for Erika’s seven steps for finding a lost dog.

Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she’s not writing, she works as a pet sitter. For this edition, she explores first aid and CPR classes for animals – turn to page 18.

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mail bag I am a fourth year Animal Science student at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, writing in response to an article I read in your Oct/Nov issue of Animal Wellness. The article was about ARCH (Animal Relief Coalition of Haiti) and how it treated and saved many animals, both companion and production, after the devastating earthquake hit in 2010.

I was very pleased to learn that there was such an organization, as when natural disasters like that hit, animals are not usually near the top of the priority list. I, on the other hand, feel that the animals play quite an important role in today’s society, no matter what country you’re in. Not only do the animals provide comfort and love for the injured, but livestock are valuable in a completely different way by providing food for the broken community. If it were not for this organization, many of these animals would not have survived, and in turn the people would have felt a greater loss.

I am writing to show my support of this organization, and hope that many others will recognize that, no matter how big or small, all animals have some importance in our lives and we would not be where we are today without them.

Courtney Winters, via email

Editor’s note: What makes organizations like ARCH even more special is that most of them are run almost entirely by volunteers, who receive no remuneration for their hard work and dedication beyond the satisfaction and joy they derive from helping those in need, whether human or animal.

Why does your Animal Wellness magazine promote the false belief that dogs are children with fur? Dogs are dogs. Children are the future of a country, dogs are not. Children can laugh and read and write and ask questions and have career goals. Children cannot be spayed or neutered legally. Dogs can. Children are citizens. Dogs are not.

So knock it off with this fur kid nonsense!

Dale Spencer, via email

Editor’s note: The phrase “fur kids” is simply a term of endearment, and an expression of the profound love many people feel for their dogs and cats. For many, especially singles, seniors and/or those without children, dogs provide a wonderful antidote to loneliness and provide companionship, joy and unconditional love. In this respect, they are similar to children. And like children, dogs and cats need our care, protection and love in order to survive and thrive.

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I was very interested in your article about black dog syndrome (Dec/Jan). My daughter manages an animal shelter and has said that it’s harder to adopt out darker colored dogs. She also says big dogs are harder to adopt out than smaller ones, especially the ones that look like they contain breeds generally believed to be aggressive or vicious, like pit bulls, Rottweilers or mastiffs. Many of these big or dark dogs are gentler and have better temperaments than the small ones, but my daughter says that people are more attracted to the “cute little” dogs, I guess because they look less threatening. We have never seen this issue addressed in any other magazine, and hope that your article will help open people’s eyes and get them to look beyond the appearance of the dog to the personality underneath.

Dorothy Walker, via email

Editor’s

note: Without considering temperament as well as looks, people run the risk of discovering too late that their new companion isn’t what they were looking for. Many “cute” dogs end up being returned to shelters because they turn out to be “snappy” or “unmanageable”. In most cases, these dogs could become wonderful companions with a bit of training and patience, but a lot of heartache could be saved by taking time at the outset to carefully evaluate a dog on all levels before adopting.

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yakkity yak Milestone for Missouri Just two months after the ASPCA rescued more than 100 dogs from deplorable conditions at a Missouri puppy mill (just one of many raids the organization has undertaken in the state), the majority of Missourians who hit the polls on Election Day last November voted in favor of the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act (Proposition B).

What do you do?

Does having a cat or dog relate to your career path? A new survey from CareerBuilder looks at animal guardianship in relation to chosen profession, compensation and job satisfaction. Here are some key findings: • Workers with dogs were more likely to report holding senior management positions (CEO, CFO, Senior Vice President, etc.)

• Dog guardians were also more likely to be professors, nurses, information technology professionals, military professionals and entertainers.

• Cat guardians were more likely to be physicians, real estate agents, science/medical lab technicians, machine operators and personal caretakers.

Remember to immediately clean up any spills when putting antifreeze in your vehicle.

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Although the new law unfortunately doesn’t ban puppy mills, it at least ensures that dogs who spend their lives breeding puppies at these large-scale facilities receive humane care, including sufficient food and water, regular veterinary attention, adequate housing, space and regular exercise. Prop B also makes Missouri the fifth state (along with Louisiana, Oregon, Virginia and Washington) to create a limit on the number of intact adult breeder dogs a commercial breeder may keep.

Permits required Dog over-population is largely caused by people who neglect or refuse to get their animals spayed or neutered, then let them roam at large. Last May, the New Orleans City Council passed the Intact Dog Ordinance. This groundbreaking legislation promotes responsible dog guardianship within the New Orleans area by requiring people to buy a $20 annual permit for any intact dog over six months of age. Violators will be fined $100 for the first offense, and up to $500 for the third offense.

The Louisiana SPCA is distributing the permits and directing the proceeds to Animal Control. They hope the ordinance will help reduce the number of animals euthanized each year and decrease the number of dog bites in the New Orleans area.

No animals for sale A bylaw recently adopted in Richmond, British Columbia prohibiting the sale of dogs from pet stores is a move that other cities should consider, says the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (cfhs.ca).

“We commend Richmond city councilors for showing leadership on this issue,” says Shelagh MacDonald of the CFHS. “And we encourage other BC cities considering similar bylaws to follow suit. We’d love to see every city in Canada put a stop to pet stores selling dogs and cats.”

Several American cities have banned the retail sale of animals to help stem the growing tide of strays and cut off sales from abusive puppy and kitten mills.

And it’s working: since a ban was introduced in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2006, local animal shelters have seen a 23% increase in adoptions and a 35% decrease in euthanasia rates. For more on this promising trend, turn to page 74.

Be an alley cat ally.

Join the hundreds of thousands of Americans who advocate on behalf of stray and feral cats.

Learn how at www.alleycat.org.

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yakkity yak Focus on pit bulls When it comes to shelter animals, pit bulls usually get the short end of the stick. Last October, Best Friends Animal Society received a $240,000 grant from PetSmart Charities for the “Shelter Partners for Pit Bulls Project”. The grant supports pilot programs at shelters in five cities to encourage responsible guardianship, reduce euthanasia of pit bull-type dogs, and improve overall perception of the breed. Participating shelters are located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Baltimore, MD, Washington, D.C., Carlsbad, CA and Tampa, FL.

Spend a few minutes each day practicing basic training commands with your dog; it will help keep him well-behaved.

Big step forward It’s official! Last fall, PCRM (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine) successfully brought an end to the use of animals in all of Canada’s medical schools.

“We can now say that no students in any of the country’s 17 medical schools will need to sacrifice their education or compassion on their way to becoming physicians,” says Dr. John J. Pippin, PCRM’s Senior Medical and Research Advisor.

The Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) was the last school to take the step. “After three years of communications with MUN, PCRM prepared to file a complaint with the federal Canadian Council on Animal Care,” says Dr. Pippin. “When MUN administrators got wind of this and received intensive media scrutiny, they decided it was finally time to make the change. With the end of Canada’s last animal lab there are only seven medical schools in all of the US and Canada (out of 176) that still use animals.”

Cracking down Surgical precision Each year, animal guardians spend millions on health conditions that require surgery. Veterinary Pet Insurance recently examined its database of insured animals to determine the top dog surgery claims submitted to the company last year: 1. Benign skin mass 2. Skin abscess, inflammation or pressure ulcer 3. Tooth extraction 4. Torn ACL or cartilage 5. Malignant skin mass

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Dog fighting is a serious problem in many areas. The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), in partnership with the ASPCA, has launched a free online course to help law enforcement and animal welfare professionals better detect, investigate and take action against dogfighting.

Part one of the Combating Dogfighting course offers a comprehensive overview of dogfighting issues in the United States, while the second part provides information and resources on effective response, investigation and enforcement. aspcapro.org/cops

Mopping up The massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has impacted more than regional wildlife. According to a recent survey

by Petfinder.com, 43% of animal shelters and rescue groups in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas are reporting an increase in animals being surrendered since the spill first occurred on April 20. In most cases, the primary factors are financial difficulty or job loss.

The Petfinder Foundation is offering $150,000 in grants for shelters and rescue groups affected by the spill – $100,000 in operating budget grants is being provided to shelters located within 30 miles of the coast, while $50,000 goes to Petfinder member shelters or rescue groups who have the capacity to transport or accept ten or more homeless animals from impacted areas.

Screen your sitter Going away for a winter vacation? When choosing a pet sitter for your dog or cat, says the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), be sure to fully investigate his/her adherence to industry standards and safe business practices. NAPPS offers the following recommendations: • Develop a set of questions and conduct a thorough interview.

• Ask for multiple references.

• Request proof of bonding and liability insurance coverage.

• Be sure the sitter interacts well with your animal.

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Liz Palika’s dog Bashir poses as a first aid patient for Kindred Spirits Training student Kate Abbot.

Emergency!

Would you know what to do if your dog collapsed or your cat stopped breathing?

If not, you might want to consider taking a first aid or CPR class for companion animals.

by Sandra Murphy

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hen my elderly dog Ally fell over and started hyperventilating one night, I did what most people do – panic,” says Yvonne. “The vet’s office is less than ten minutes away, and I got her there immediately, but it still wasn’t soon enough. Ally didn’t make it. I sometimes wonder if she’d still be with me if I’d known how to stabilize her until we got to the vet.”

Living with a dog or cat means you’ll sooner or later have to deal with illness or injury. The most serious incidents, like the cut that won’t stop bleeding or an out-of-the-blue seizure, always seem to happen after the veterinarian’s office is closed for the day. Knowing how to assess an emergency and apply first aid treatment can be a lifesaver – literally.

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63% of dog people and 53% of cat people said they would be willing to give CPR to their animal companions.

According to the American Animal Hospital Association, one out of four animals would survive if just one first aid technique was applied prior to getting to an emergency veterinary hospital. Taking a first aid or CPR class can help you be prepared and remain calm during a crisis.

Where to find a class Robyn Elman of In Home Pet Services teaches a class.

A first aid/CPR class should teach the following: •CPR and rescue breathing •How to check vital signs •How to control bleeding •Handling and restraining an injured pet •How to induce vomiting (and when not to) •What to do for bite wounds • Recognizing and treating heatstroke and frostbite •How to prevent and treat poisoning • What to do for burns, choking, diarrhea, broken bones, seizures, shock and vomiting.

“Learning about first aid isn’t just for family members,” says Robyn Elman of In Home Pet Services in Bellerose, New York. “It’s important for pet industry professionals like pet sitters, dog walkers and groomers, as well as first responders like police officers and fire fighters, to learn pet first aid and CPR.” Robyn’s students work with life-sized stuffed dogs and cats in a four-hour class as they learn the signs of shock, allergic reactions and heatstroke.

The American Red Cross also offers first aid and CPR classes for companion animals. They use dog and cat manikins to provide hands-on training for CPR. (In a survey, 63% of dog people and 53% of cat people said they would be willing to give CPR to their animal companions.) In class, you’ll also learn what to do if your animal is choking, has eaten something poisonous, or gets frostbite.

American Red Cross classes may be taken at their own offices, but may also be offered through Humane Societies, veterinarians or trainers, or at day care or boarding facilities. Liz Palika of Kindred Spirits Training teaches the Red Cross first aid class at her facility in Vista, California. For real hands-on training, Liz’s two Aussies Bashir and Archer volunteer to be the “injured” victims. They’ve learned to hold up a helping paw as students search for a pulse or try to bandage a foot.

Kate practices rescue breathing on a dog dummy.

Trying to move or restrain an injured animal can result in a scratched or bitten person and a traumatized dog animal wellness

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This will help you notice any changes during an illness or after an accident.

•P ay attention to gum color – if it’s paler than usual, it could indicate internal bleeding or a heart/ lung problem.

•L umps and bumps can come up quickly and should be examined by your veterinarian with the same speed.

•T iming the length of a seizure can help your vet determine the cause.

Once you establish a baseline of what’s normal for your dog or cat, you’ll be able to focus on what’s different and be able to explain it to your veterinarian upon arrival at the clinic.

Denise Fleck of Sunny Dog Ink checks on a shelter cat.

or cat. Dogma Day Care in Atlanta offers first aid classes that include a lesson on how to properly restrain or muzzle a dog and how to confront an injured and aggressive cat. According to their web site, 60% of animal hospital visits are emergency related. A first aid class can’t replace regular vet visits, but it could save your animal’s life or prevent further injury if he panics after being hurt.

Aging affects dogs and cats in many of the same ways it does people – eyesight gets worse, hearing starts to go, and the stairs are harder to navigate. Denise Fleck of Sunny Dog Ink in Burbank, California not only teaches first aid classes but also a class called Caring for Your Senior Dog and Cat that focuses on non-medical ways to prevent accidents and injuries and make your companion’s life more comfortable. For example, a dog who can no longer hear you call during a late night potty break can be trained to respond to a blinking flashlight.

What else to do Check your companion nose-to-tail on a regular basis.

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Know your vet’s office hours and what to do after hours – is another vet on call or should you go to the emergency hospital? If yes, have the phone number handy and know how to get there. Call ahead so the staff is ready, especially if you’ll need help getting your dog or cat out of the car and into the hospital. This is not the time to go online and ask questions!

Our animal companions depend on us in so many ways. In case of emergency, staying calm and knowing what to do will reassure your dog or cat and may even save his life. A first aid or CPR class could make all the difference.

Resources American Red Cross, americanredcross.com Dogma Day Care, dogmadaycare.com In Home Pet Services, inhomepetservices.com Kindred Spirits, kindredspiritsk9.com Sunny Dog Ink, sunnydogink.com One number to keep handy is ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. The center is staffed 24/7 to handle calls from those whose animals may have ingested something toxic.

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Wrapped in

love

How one woman and her dog led to a unique organization that helps shelter dogs and cats stay warm, comfy and happy.

by Barbara Nefer

E

ileen Smulson thought she had a full life. She had a loving husband and was juggling various successful careers, teaching grade school, working for major nonprofit agencies and running her own business. She didn’t realize something was missing and that a stray dog named Ginger would transform her from someone who never gave a thought to animals into a conduit for bringing comfort to thousands of shelter-bound dogs and cats.

Eileen felt no connection to the dog, but the rescuers invited her and Brad to take her home and give her a try. “Within two days she was sleeping in the bed with us,” Brad laughs.

A bond forms Eileen still needed time to bond with Ginger. “It was an evolutionary process,” Brad explains. “She took Ginger for six training classes that were eight weeks each. They also did dancing with dogs and outdoor agility. She

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Eileen and Ginger deliver blankets, towels, beds, toys and treats to a shelter in need.

then went on to train Ginger as a therapy dog and they became certified pet therapy partners.” Eileen and Ginger also joined a program called READ (Reading Assistance Education Dog) for kids in schools and libraries.

Like everything else in her life, Eileen was approaching dog guardianship at full throttle, and in the process, the little mutt from the freeway finally opened her heart to animals.

All photos courtesy of Brad Smulson

“She had a serious career, and I thought she needed an outlet,” says Eileen’s husband, Brad. “Animals are good for that, and also for personal growth.” Brad saw an opportunity to introduce his wife to animals in 2003 when the California couple ran across a rescue group offering Ginger, a six-month-old pup who’d been found on a hot desert freeway.

In 2008, Eileen’s life took another turn that was to have a positive impact on countless more dogs and cats. She visited a Los Angeles animal shelter and noticed the dogs lying on cold cement floors. “Shelters provide food, water and housing, but they don’t have budgets for comfort items,” she says. “The animals are on hard floors, concrete, wire or newspaper.”

“We’re like the American Red Cross of the animal rescue world.”

Eileen immediately sprang into action, spearheading a blanket and towel drive so that each dog and cat would have a warm, soft place to curl up. Operation Blankets of Love (operationblanketsoflove.com) was born.

Although the main purpose of the organization is to provide comfort to animals, Eileen soon realized she was also helping save lives. “When you put an animal in a strange environment, he’s often nervous and depressed,” she explains. “Some sit there shaking.

They don’t look attractive to potential adopters. As soon as you put in soft bedding or a blanket, they sniff it and snuggle into it. They have something of their own, and it makes them happier and more secure.

Potential adopters see them cuddled up or wagging tails in something that looks like a home environment, and they get adopted more quickly. That saves two lives, because now there’s space for another animal that might have been euthanized because the shelter was full.”

Hitting the news Eileen’s initial efforts snowballed as people heard about her work. Local newspaper articles lead to national magazine stories and eventually to television coverage.

She parlayed the publicity into more opportunities to collect and distribute goods. Drawing on her teaching experience, Eileen combined blanket drives with humane education. She teaches youngsters from grade school through high school about responsible animal care and treatment. Then she helps them run their own blanket drives.

“They do everything, from deciding how to get donations to making posters and flyers,” Eileen says. animal wellness

23

“They learn about marketing and interpersonal skills.”

Eileen also helps to build empathy in children. “We take a trip to a shelter, and I show them the dogs on cement floors and ask them, ‘How do you think the animal feels?

What do you think it’s like to be lost or stray and come to a shelter?’” The kids then get to hand out the blankets and see the difference a bit of kindness makes.

Supply line Blankets and towels remain the organization’s mainstay, but Operation Blankets of Love has expanded to include other dog and cat supplies like food, treats, leashes, carriers and even cat trees. “We’re like the American Red Cross of the animal rescue world,” Eileen jokes. The organization is currently supplying comfort items to shelters all over California, from San Diego to Bakersfield. They help 1,000 animals every month, and although their main focus is dogs and cats, they’ve also assisted horses, rabbits and even pot-bellied pigs.

“The supplies are very important,” Eileen says. “When we give rescue groups food or carriers or other things they need, they can use their money for other things like veterinary care for a sick animal that might otherwise be euthanized.”

Operation Blankets of Love is a non-profit organization that runs on a shoestring and has no other staff apart from Eileen and Brad – and of course Ginger, who is the mascot and assists with public relations. Yet the organization has grown at what Brad calls “lightning speed”.

Happy shelter workers accept donated comfort items for their animals.

“Shelters provide food, water and housing, but they don’t have budgets for comfort items.”

Going national The couple’s efforts recently look a giant leap forward when the group was featured on Animal Planet’s popular pit bull rescue series Pit Boss. The show’s stars, Shorty and his crew, helped out with a blanket drive and joined Eileen to deliver blankets, toys and other items to shelter animals and a unique homeless shelter that allows residents to bring their companion animals. Brad says the show inspired calls from across the country, from people of all ages.

Eileen is now working on a guidebook based on her organization and hopes to eventually have affiliated groups throughout the country. Meanwhile, she continues to expand her collection points and tie them in with adoption programs whenever possible. “It’s all about saving animals,” she says. To set up adoption events, she works with places ranging from small farmers’ markets to national chains like Walgreens. She also helps groups that transport small dogs from overcrowded shelters to parts of the country where they are in demand.

Eileen makes sure every animal en route to a new home has a blanket in his carrier.

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“Every day brings us incredible happiness,” says Brad.

“It’s amazing to see what one woman and one dog have accomplished. We want it to be a preamble that inspires people across the whole country. We strongly believe that adoption is the best option.”

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Address STRESS!

Adaptogens are a unique group of herbs that can help him cope better and adapt to life’s stressors – both physically and emotionally.

by Christine King, BVSc, MACVSc, MVetClinStud

L

ife can be a challenge at times. All manner of stressors can harm the body or mind, and often both.

While we and our animals have built-in mechanisms for coping with these stresses, and additional ways to protect ourselves, increase our resilience and improve our repair capacity, there’s one you may not know about yet: adaptogenic herbs, or adaptogens.

American ginsengs. Others include rhodiola, schizandra, aralia, rhaponticum, and ashwagandha. (Several medicinal mushrooms also have some adaptogenic properties.)

While each has its own unique set of properties, these herbs all share features that are particularly useful to bodies under stress. Let’s take a look at how adaptogens can help three different groups of dogs.

Adaptogens are an interesting bunch of herbs. They are a diverse group of plants, yet they all have similar actions on the body. This shared effect is where the term “adaptogen” comes from, as these herbs contain substances that help us adapt to the various stresses of life, both physical and psychological. In the process, the body becomes more resistant to whatever might cause it harm, because the adaptogens promote healthy self-maintenance and repair.

Working dogs

Some of these herbs you’ll have heard of already, such as Siberian ginseng (eleuthero) and the various Asian and

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The adaptogens are among the most widely studied medicinal herbs. In fact, they have been more extensively studied than many drugs. Much of the research has focused on the effects of adaptogens on exercise capacity and mental performance, with human studies primarily involving athletes and people in stressful or tiring jobs.

In short, adaptogens improve endurance (resistance to fatigue), work capacity under stress, focus and learning, and recovery after strenuous activity. They also help

moderate mood and reactivity; they’re calming for those prone to anxiety or aggression and enlivening for those prone to depression. In working dogs, these various properties translate into: • Better performance, both during an event and over the season/career • Greater enjoyment of work and play • Fewer injuries and illnesses, and faster recovery from injury and illness • Longer career (i.e. delayed retirement) It must be added, however, that there is no substitute for good training and considerate care, and there are no shortcuts to a winning performance. The adaptogens don’t confer super-powers on a dog; they simply help him do his natural best under the stresses inherent to the job.

Dogs with chronic disease Another feature adaptogens share is an ability to help the body self-regulate. When the body is disordered, these herbs can help it return to a state of balance – to the normal functions, capacity and responsiveness of a healthy body.

Not surprisingly, the systems most benefited are those with central roles in self-regulation: • Central nervous system • Cardiovascular system • Endocrine (hormonal or glandular) system • Immune system • Digestive system Adaptogens have positive effects on virtually every organ system in the body, but their effects are particularly potent on those five systems. Furthermore, in various studies, adaptogens have proven to be both protective

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and regenerative. They protect tissues from damage and facilitate repair or regeneration when damage has occurred.

These herbs are generally not sufficient on their own when disease is severe or chronic, but they can be a tremendous help alongside appropriate medical care, sometimes even reducing the dosage of drugs required.

Over time, for example, they may reduce the quantity of insulin required by diabetics, or the cardiac drugs needed in patients with heart disease.

When it comes to cancer, adaptogens each have anticancer properties that are distinct from their role in supporting immune function. Studies have shown that some adaptogens reduce the rate of metastasis (spreading of cancer to other sites) and increase survival in animals with cancer.

adaptogens are especially helpful to the aging body. In fact, one of the traditional uses of adaptogenic herbs in their cultures of origin (various Asian and European countries) is as a tonic in convalescence and old age.

In human studies, improved quality of life is one of the most consistent findings. Elderly patients who take these herbs typically report that they feel better physically, mentally and emotionally. Here are some specific effects that may be of particular benefit to senior dogs: • Improved immune function • Improved function of the other key systems listed earlier • I mproved muscle mass and thus strength, coordination, comfort and confidence • Improved alertness, memory, mood and quality of sleep

It is important to note that these herbs do not cure cancer.

They can, however, supplement cancer treatment and reduce the harmful effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

In my experience, these herbs add considerably to the quality of life in senior dogs, even helping to clear the mental fog that often causes confusion, anxiety and forgetfulness.

Senior dogs

Which adaptogens are best?

Along with countering the cellular consequences of stress, adaptogens have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Since the three processes implicated in aging are chronic stress, oxidative damage and inflammation,

Adaptogenic herbs

Common name

Botanical name

Aralia

Aralia mandschurica or A. elata

Siberian ginseng

Eleutherococcus senticosus

Chinese, Korean or Asian ginseng

Panax ginseng

American ginseng

Panax quinquefolium

Raponticum, maral root

Rhaponticum (or Leuzea) carthamoides

Rhodiola, rose root, Arctic rose

Rhodioloa rosea or R. crenulata

Schizandra

Schisandra chinensis

Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera

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animal wellness

Each of these herbs has its own “signature” properties in addition to those they share with the other adaptogens.

So depending on the situation, a single adaptogen may be all that’s needed to help support a dog through whatever he is dealing with. For example, rhodiola is a lovely herb for anxious animals (and people!). Schizandra is great for mental focus when you’re tired and just have to press on. Siberian ginseng can help ward off a cold, and rhaponticum is particularly useful for its nonhormonal anabolic properties. Most of the time, though, a combination of adaptogens works best, as it provides a broader range of benefits.

Most of these herbs can be found singly or in various combinations in human health food stores, natural grocery stores, and some fitness centers. My preference is to use a product specifically prepared for animal use, using species-appropriate formulations and concentrations, and with species-specific dosing instructions and veterinary input. There are now a number of good adaptogenic products for animals on the market. One of my favorites is APF Pro by Auburn Labs (auburnlabs.com).

How much, how often and how long?

How much? It depends on the product you’re using, so follow label directions and/or your veterinarian’s advice.

If you’re buying adaptogenic products formulated and

labeled for humans, it’s usually okay to scale down the dosage for dogs according to body weight. All the adaptogens studied so far have nice wide safety margins, so if you accidentally give a 50-pound dog an entire human dose, he is unlikely to come to any harm.

How often? I usually recommend giving the product once a day, in food. When dealing with serious illness or stress, I’ll often recommend being extra generous with the dosage and giving it twice a day.

How long? You may see an effect after the first dose, particularly if the herbs are being used for mental or emotional support. True adaptation (i.e. greater general resistance to stress, rather than simply coping better with a current stress) takes longer and involves repeated dosing over at least two weeks. Beyond that point, I find I can often use a lower dosage for maintenance. But that’s something to discuss with your veterinarian.

Adaptogenic herbs are a great addition to a dog’s healthcare program, but they should always be used alongside proper medical care, a good diet, daily exercise, and all the other things that go into keeping a dog healthy and happy.

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29

CASE STUDY

Mandy’s story

Meet a spunky therapy dog who overcame cancer the holistic way.

by Karen Mangini

Karen is overjoyed that Mandy is now in excellent health.

I

will never forget the day I learned Mandy had insulinoma. I was sitting in the veterinarian’s waiting room thinking about Mandy’s recent second place win in the Nuts for Mutts doggy dance contest.

I was enjoying a mental image of her spinning around in her little pick tutu with matching baseball cap.

The doctor stormed in and started saying something about a coma and low blood levels. He went on and on about how he couldn’t understand why Mandy wasn’t having seizures, “because she definitely will”.

Then he mentioned chemotherapy, and I heard

30

animal wellness

nothing more. I watched his mouth move as I felt my body falling, swirling like a rag doll into a black hole with pieces of broken matter spinning all around me.

I interrupted the doctor while he was blabbing on about some pharmaceuticals that Mandy would have to take for the rest of her life. I thanked him and said I was going holistic.

He stared at me as if I’d said I was going to eat my own head. “Well, I don’t know how acupuncture is going to help this dog!” he declared.

I changed Mandy’s diet to a raw organic mixture of meat and vegetables.

Second opinions were in order, and the next diagnosis was from a holistic doctor. I told him nothing about Mandy’s prior diagnosis. Sadly, he said the same thing as the first vet. My whole world came to a screeching halt.

My poor little Mandy had insulinoma. What now?

A shift in perspective From that day forward, my belief was that Mandy was going to be healed! I held an image in my mind’s eye of the two of us happily playing in the park, encased in the joyful emotion of a thriving and cancer-free Mandy. I embodied that feeling and projected it into the future. I then set about to accomplish it.

With the help of the holistic vet, I began to boost Mandy’s immune system so she could heal herself without drugs. We used kinesiology (muscle testing) to determine what herbs and supplements her body needed. I also used the Ondamend, a biofeedback machine that employs electromagnetic energy to diagnose and heal.

I changed Mandy’s diet to a raw organic mixture of meat and vegetables. I rescued another dog that filled our lives with love and laughter. I imagined the tumor shrinking, dissolving and leaving her body without doing any harm.

Mandy poses for a “glam” shot.

Holistic research pays off Throughout my adult life, I’d been obsessed with doing extensive research on cancer and holistic cures, and I often wondered why. Now I knew.

We have not won the “war” on cancer. Our current medical model is to conquer nature. Instead, we need a paradigm shift and to start working with nature.

I believe cancer research is a big money-making scheme. Chemotherapy does not cure most cancers.

Years later, the cancer often reappears in another part of the body. I believe energy medicine and self-healing are the way of the future.

I began to recall other health problems Mandy and I had shared. I used to think it was a coincidence, but a pattern was emerging. When I had intestinal

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31

Now, almost three years after her diagnosis, Mandy is 15 and has never been so perky and healthy.

problems, so did Mandy. When she developed a pre-cancerous nodule on the left side of her groin, they found a pre-cancerous polyp on the left side of my colon. I realized Mandy was taking on my “stuff” to help me heal.

Helping Mandy “let it go” My purpose on this planet is to help repair the fractured relationship we currently have with animals. Animals are healing beings, particularly dogs because they are so close to us. We have much to learn from them.

Mandy taught me how to come from the heart and live in the moment. She is such a calm and caring spirit. Feeling the need to share this amazing dog with everyone, I had her certified as a therapy dog with Paws 4 Healing through The Delta Society. This was before her diagnosis.

During the last two years, we had been assigned to the cancer outpatient ward at Cedars Sinai. I began to wonder whether Mandy had taken on the patients’ illnesses, as she took on mine. Maybe somehow their energy was being held inside her body. With the help of an animal communicator, I made it very clear that she should let it go. Her job was to help people feel better, not take on and hold their energy.

Mandy enjoys being a therapy dog and helping others feel better.

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animal wellness

Now, almost three years after her diagnosis, Mandy is 15 and has never been so perky and healthy. She won’t be entering any dance contests, though; she tore her right ACL at the beach last summer. Wouldn’t you know it – I’ve also had my right ACL reconstructed.

Coincidence? I don’t think so.

animal wellness

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Creaky joints?

Osteoarthritis is the most common skeletal disorder affecting dogs and cats. Here’s a look at what’s new – and what’s tried and true – in treatment options.

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

I

f your older dog or cat seems stiff and sore at times, he’s far from alone. Osteoarthritis (arthritis) is an extremely common problem and becomes more prevalent as animals age, affecting at least 75% of the senior dog and cat population.

discuss what’s new in arthritis treatment, as well as revisit time-tested therapies to alleviate your companion’s pain and stiffness and give him back his mobility.

While conventional doctors usually use drug therapy with NSAIDS to control the pain and inflammation that accompanies arthritis, a holistic approach relies on natural therapies to keep the animal comfortable, and only resorts to NSAIDs on extremely painful days. This article will

1. Hyaluronic acid (HA)

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animal wellness

New therapies HA is a normal constituent of joint fluid that lubricates the joints. Giving HA to arthritic animals is a natural way to encourage healing. It is so effective that I often use it when other joint supplements fail to work.

HA reduces swelling at the site by decreasing white blood cell migration and infiltration into the affected tissue. It also inhibits the arachidonic acid pathway, resulting in decreased pain.

In my practice, I regularly use two commercially available HA products for dogs and cats. Both are made by MVP Laboratories: Cholodin Flex, a chewable treat that also contains choline to decrease the risk of cognitive disorder; and Chologel, a potent gel form I use for animals that don’t like the Cholodin Flex treat or that have more severe arthritis.

2. Cold laser/low level laser therapy Laser therapy can be used to help animals with arthritis.

Several proposed therapeutic mechanisms are involved.

The most commonly accepted involves individual cells and light emission.

Cells in the body emit and absorb light (biophotons) via chromophores (light sensitive molecules in the cells). The light from the laser is absorbed by the chromophores and converted to chemical energy. These emissions and absorptions of light play key roles in regulating various cellular activities, including activation of cell division, cell-to-cell communication and cell migration, all of which are essential in wound healing.

Laser Therapy photo: courtesy of Erchonia

Low level laser therapy is an effective way to help treat arthritis in dogs.

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Laser therapy offers several benefits, including increased cellular energy, reduced swelling, pain relief, muscle relaxation and reduced inflammation.

Optimal results occur when the laser light is of low intensity (meaning the tissue is not heated), only lasts for a short period of time, and pulses on and off rather than remaining static.

Laser therapy offers several benefits, including increased cellular energy, reduced swelling, pain relief, muscle relaxation and reduced inflammation. The exact nature of the healing depends on the condition being treated. For example, with musculoskeletal problems, healing results as a reduction of inflammation and pain.

As is true with all natural therapies, it’s important to understand that laser therapy is usually not the sole form of treatment. The ultimate goal is true healing, and anything that allows us to reach that goal should be used. In my practice, laser therapy is only one aspect of healing. It is combined with other therapies (herbs, homeopathic, nutritional supplements, etc.) to offer the best chance of healing.

While laser therapy can be used to assist animals with almost any medical condition, it is most commonly employed for those with diseases of the musculoskeletal

system (sprains and strains, hip dysplasia, shoulder dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, etc.) and the nervous system (disc disease, lumbosacral disease and even epilepsy). The benefits of laser therapy for chronic arthritis is comparable to those obtained with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy, without the side effects.

My general protocol is to use a number of supplements to allow healing, and use laser therapy several times a week for three to four weeks initially. I then use the laser as needed to maintain healing while the animal continues his supplement regimen.

One word of caution: there are currently several laser manufacturers trying to enter the veterinary market.

They make lasers that have not been thoroughly tested or approved by the FDA. Because laser therapy is considered an alternative treatment, I would recommend only having it done by a holistic veterinarian who has experience in a number of alternative therapies. After researching the various lasers available, I chose one made

by Erchonia because of the large amount of research showing the benefits of using their particular product.

3. Stem cell therapy This is another exciting new development that may help dogs with arthritis of the hips and knees. Stem cells are found throughout the body, especially in tissue fat, and have an amazing capacity to heal. Stem cell therapy involves collecting a small amount of fat from the animal, isolating and concentrating the stem cells contained in the fat, and injecting them into the animal’s joint. There, the stem cells help give the joint an extra boost of healing. (For more about stem cell therapy see the Feb/ Mar 2010 issue of Animal Wellness).

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animal wellness

Stalwart standbys 1. Joint supplements Most people are familiar with joint supplements, the most commonly prescribed natural therapies for animals with arthritis. While each product differs in the exact combination of ingredients, most generally contain glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. Various herbs (white willow bark, boswellia) and nutrients (vitamin C) may also be included in proprietary formulas. The ingredients are designed to reduce pain and inflammation and encourage cartilage healing.

2. Chiropractic Chiropractic medicine uses spinal manipulation to improve health. It focuses on the interactions between the nervous system and the biomechanics of the vertebrae. In chiropractic theory, disease results from a spinal misalignment that negatively influences the nervous system. Chiropractic therapy seeks to realign the spine through a variety of manipulative techniques. Only veterinarians, or chiropractors using the technique under direct veterinary supervision, should perform chiropractic therapy on dogs and cats.

3. Homeopathy/homotoxicology These therapies use diluted substances (typically herbal or mineral) to encourage the body to respond to disease.

In the case of animals with arthritis, homeopathics such as Arnica or Hypericum, or Zeel or Traumeel (homotoxicology remedies made by the Heel Corporation) encourage the body to remove inflammation and decrease pain.

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Giving hyaluronic acid to arthritic animals is a natural way to encourage healing.

4. Acupuncture This is a well known and popular therapy for relieving pain and inflammation in arthritic animals. It can be done with needles, liquids injected into acupuncture points (aquapuncture) or with cold laser therapy directed at the points. You can also be taught acupressure to achieve ongoing results at home.

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5. Magnets The cells in the body have a normal magnetic field that allows for proper functioning. This means magnets used in a therapeutic way can assist healing.

They can either be permanent magnets, also called static magnets, or pulsed electromagnetic field magnets (PEMF).

Magnets heal by removing inflammation and restoring circulation. (In the Eastern view of healing, magnets help restore the body’s energy flow to allow healing and proper metabolism.) By increasing blood flow to a diseased site, increased nutrients are available for healing.

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animal wellness

Conventional drugs such as NSAIDS can be used as part of an integrative approach for the treatment of arthritis. The best and most holistic way to use NSAIDS is to combine them with other therapies (joint supplements, homeopathics, laser therapy, etc.) so the lowest dose possible is administered.

By using several integrative therapies, I find most of my patients only need about half the label dose of a NSAID, given only on particularly painful days.

The secret to successful arthritis therapy is to start an integrative treatment program at the first sign of discomfort or when any a normalities are seen on radiographs (x-rays.) Doing so can help ensure a long, pain-free life, with minimal need for NSAIDS or other medications.

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The SRI piggy-bank Make your money speak for you by choosing socially responsible investments that factor in animal welfare, environmental accountability or humanitarian policies.

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A

penny saved is a penny earned, so the old saying goes. But choosing an investment can be tricky. More and more people are making socially responsible investment choices with their money, such as backing companies that are doing good for the environment or promoting the welfare of animals.

The trend toward socially responsible investing (SRI) began in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It seeks a balance between an investor’s financial needs and the investment’s impact on society.

Most major investment organizations now offer SRI choices.

However, labels such as “green” or “pet friendly” are largely unregulated, which means choosing a fund simply because it sports such a label isn’t always the wisest decision. You need to do research to ensure you’re really making a conscience-easy investment choice.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. You need to find a company you feel proud to invest in, but that will also prove to be a worthwhile financial choice.

Finding a fund SRI choices are available in the form of mutual funds, pension funds, bond funds and more. Before investing, find a financial advisor who respects your values and will work with you to find a suitable option.

Screens are one way to narrow down your options.

Screens are an electronic method that involves entering desired criteria such as load, minimum initial purchase, volatility and other elements.

A screen should be as detailed as you can make it. “A fund may have ‘socially responsible’ in its name, but it may not screen for behaviors that are important to you,” says Robert W. Hampton, CPA at Impart Financial in Fort Worth, Texas.

Negative SRI screens can be used to weed out offenders: companies that partake in animal testing or extensive factory farming, as well as those with pollution issues or whose products do not promote human or animal welfare. animal wellness

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Some socially conscious funds Calvert Investments calvert.com/sri.html Domini Social Investments domini.com Parnassus Investments parnassus.com Pax World Investments paxworld.com Portfolio 21 Investments portfolio21.com

Vote with your wallet Aside from the personal satisfaction of doing the right thing, sinking your investment into an SRI company is a step toward making a positive impact on the future. If a company doesn’t pass through screens, the chances of an investor choosing it become slim, leaving the company with less cash available for research, equipment and daily operations. By “voting with your wallet” in this way, you can use your investment to voice displeasure at a socially irresponsible company, while financially rewarding the positive traits of another company.

Investor action has brought about changes in the past. For example, apartheid unraveled once investors boycotted companies doing business in South Africa. And Talisman Energy, Canada’s largest independent oil company, changed their ways when the voice of investors insisted the company suspend operations in Sudan, a region under humanitarian scrutiny.

Ensuring financial gains Winslow Green Mutual Funds winslowgreen.com

“Socialfunds.com and socialinvest.org are two websites with free online SRI mutual fund guides….”

Positive SRI screens can pinpoint companies with commendable characteristics: production practices that promote sustainability and alternatives to animal products or testing, or that use green forms of fuel consumption or production.

Another factor is to decide how deep you want to dig.

“Does a company that has a small portion of what they do in an activity you do not approve of taint the selection of that stock?” says Robert. “There is no right or wrong answer; it is up to you how important the screen is. Granted, the tighter you screen, the less investment choices you have – but that may be the price you are willing to pay for investing with your conscience.”

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The basic reason for investing is to realize financial gains, so an SRI investment should provide a reasonable payoff.

Beyond what your financial advisor tells you, study an SRI fund’s advertisement or prospectus. According to a study by the Natural Capital Institute, “if the performance is lower than accepted benchmarks such as the S&P [Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index] or Dow Jones, the language will focus on the fund’s mission. If the performance is as good as or better than standard indices, the language will highlight returns.”

Also observe what is happening in the political and economic spectrums. Sometimes, going in at the ground level of a unique or unknown product may pay off when the winds of social change shift.

“There are several great resources online designed to help investors research SRI funds,” says Louis Berger, Co-Founder/Principal at Washington Square Capital Management in New York. “Socialfunds.com and socialinvest.org are two websites with free online SRI mutual fund guides that provide fund performance data and information about the criteria SRI fund managers apply to their investment decisions. Investors should read each fund’s prospectus before making a final investment decision.”

The socially responsible investor has a wide variety of high-performing funds from which to choose.

While some SRI mutual funds come at slightly higher management costs to investors, the ease of conscious and vote for a better future may deem it worthwhile.

If an investment is in your plans, take stock of your social beliefs and what type of future you hope to leave to the next generation. Then seek out a financial advisor to help you put your plan in action.

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Product picks Get your goat Goat’s milk is easy to digest and rich in calcium, vitamin A, potassium and niacin. Meyenberg offers evaporated and powdered natural goat milk that’s free of antibiotics and growth hormones. It’s good for animals of all ages, including newborns, and is also a healthy choice for convalescents because it’s more easily absorbed and doesn’t cause diarrhea or other digestive upsets. Most animals love the taste! meyenberg.com

The tao of caring This isn’t just any old jewelry. Gloster Global’s T.A.O. (Together as One) Pet Edition jewelry celebrates the connection and love we share with our dogs and cats with these beautiful quality pendants. They’re crafted by a family-owned manufacturer in Costa Rica as part of Gloster’s fair trade philosophy, and are made from Argentium silver, which is more eco-friendly than traditional sterling. Choose from three designs, depending on whether you’re a dog or cat lover (or both!). $39.99 each glosterglobal.com

Mushroom medicine Give him a boost If your dog or cat is ill, weak or immune-compromised, he probably needs some extra nutrition to help him recover. Heal-X Booster Dietary Supplement is a natural whole food vitamin supplement with antimicrobial activity. It contains carotenoids, six forms of vitamin E, fatty acids, CoQ10, and other nutrients essential for good health. It helps support the immune system, promotes healing and may aid in eliminating infections.

16 oz jar: $39.95 64 oz jar: $79.90 heal-x.com

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Reishi, maitake, lion’s mane and shiitake are all regarded as medicinal mushrooms with powerful immuneenhancing qualities. Put them together in one supplement and you have Myco Essentials’ K-9 Quad. This powdered or capsule supplement offers a variety of health benefits to your dog, including antioxidant and anti-cancer action, as well as hepatic protection, anti-viral properties and more.

50g powder: $45.99 60 capsules: $49.99 mycopets.ca

Difference Making a

How a drinks coaster became the starting point for an eco-friendly pet products business.

by Ann Brightman Mary Wolff has a passion for the environment and fair trade as well as animals.

“E

arly last year, at age 51, I sensed the proverbial desire to ‘make a difference’ with my life,” says Mary Wolff. “I knew I wanted to use my creativity and compassion for ‘all things living’ to do something that truly mattered. The only question was how? The answer came from a torn-up, ratty-looking drink coaster.”

Mary’s two Yorkshire terriers, Willie and Sophie, owned just about every dog toy imaginable, but she noticed they quickly lost interest in them. “One day, I happened to throw a fabric drink coaster across the room, and the response from both of them was clear: play time! This drink coaster fetch game became a daily ritual.” The only problem was that Willie and Sophie soon destroyed the coasters. “I thought, maybe I can design a similar version with safer, more durable and natural materials.” Mary used hemp to make the new toy, and named it the EcoFetcher. It was a hit not only with Willie and Sophie, but with other dogs as well. Mary found that the hemp stood up to even the most vigorous play and chewing, even from 130-pound dogs.

“The requests from people for safe, quality made, truly natural dog and cat toys was overwhelming,” says Mary.

Within just three months, she’d added four more toys to the line. Before she knew it, she had her own company.

“I now know that starting Honest Pet Products was the answer to that life-changing question: how do I make a difference?”

Honest Pet Products offers a selection of natural hemp or 100% wool toys for dogs and cats, in a variety of sizes.

Along with safety and durability, Mary also factors the environment and fair trade into her business. In fact, one of the company’s principles is to be “True to our Planet”. “It means our materials are used in their most truly natural form to promote sustainability and carbon footprint reduction,” she explains.

The business is also “True to our People”. “We employ people with cognitive and developmental disabilities to make our hemp and wool toys, and give them emotional encouragement as well as economic support. Our wool cat toys are handmade in Mongolia by women from impoverished, nomadic herding families without many basic needs. Through the Snow Leopard Trust’s Fair Trade cooperative, these families earn a living with their traditional wool-working skills. In exchange, herders are protecting the endangered snow leopards that share their habitats. In fact, our pledge to be ‘True to Our People’ has been our most important commitment, ongoing inspiration and deepest reward.”

Although Honest Pet Products currently offers only hemp and wool toys, Mary is developing many other natural, durable toys and accessories to add to her product line. “This is just the beginning,” she says. “We simply use the quality gifts that nature has to offer to heal the planet and provide us all with safer lives.”

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Look inside

You know what arthritis is, but how and why does it actually occur, and what happens inside the affected joint? Here’s a close-up look at the pathology of this common disease.

by Janice Huntingford, DVM

W

e all know someone with arthritis, whether it’s a human friend or family member, or an animal companion. But if asked to describe what goes on inside an arthritic joint, many of us would be lost for words.

We know it hurts, but we don’t really know why or how it happens.

Dogs and cats have an intricate skeletal system made of bones, muscles tendons and ligaments. The joints are the hinges that allow the skeleton to move and flex in amazing

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ways. They’re composed of cartilage over the bone ends and are stabilized by tendons and ligaments. The cartilage is a smooth but tough and protective coating for the bones underneath. It absorbs shock and reduces friction. The synovial tissue encloses the joint in a joint capsule and the synovial or joint fluid adds to the cushioning effects and provides lubrication for smooth joint action.

When joints are damaged by disease or injury, inflammation results. Inflammation in the joints is known as arthritis. It

may be either degenerative or inflammatory in nature. Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is more common in dogs than inflammatory joint disease.

How does osteoarthritis develop?

With osteoarthritis, changes that occur in the cartilage cause damage in the underlying bone. The cartilage provides a cushion for the bones of the joint during movement and prevents them from rubbing or hitting each other. But if it becomes dried or chipped, the underlying layer of cartilage-producing cells is exposed. These cells lose elasticity and begin to degenerate, and the cells that make up the cartilage matrix decrease.

Enzymes are released that damage the cartilage and thin the synovial fluid, greatly reducing its lubricating properties. The bones are exposed and the articular surfaces rub together, causing further damage and interfering with the joint’s normally smooth movement. This leads to joint instability.

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The joint fluid increases further and the joint space is filled with thin fluid and degenerating cartilage debris. The animal’s body responds by sending white blood cells to the affected joint. These cells release enzymes that cause inflammation and swelling or effusion in the joint. This causes stiffness and pain.

Unfortunately, since the joint cartilage does not contain any nerves, considerable damage and thinning of the synovial fluid has to take place before degenerative joint disease manifests itself. The remodeling and inflammatory changes create pain and decrease the mobility of the affected joint. Muscle atrophy results from the disuse of the painful limb. Pain and discomfort result in lameness that may be more noticeable first thing in the morning or upon rising.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that gets worse as more and more of the cartilage in the joint dies. When the cartilage has all degenerated, then the sensitive bone (which does have innervation) is exposed. This is an extremely painful situation and the animal will be lame by this stage.

Causes of degenerative joint disease Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in dogs and can be divided into primary or secondary arthritis.

Primary osteoarthritis is due to an inherited predisposition towards the problem. An example would be hip dysplasia in certain lines of German shepherd. These dogs are predisposed because their inherited anatomical conformation puts excessive stress on the hip joints.

Weight loss and exercise are extremely important for any arthritic animal.

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Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is more common in dogs than inflammatory joint disease.

Secondary osteoarthritis results from wear and tear on the joint. This can be abnormal stress on normal joints, or normal stress on abnormal joints. Vigorous exercise, excessive jumping, injuries, accidents or stretching and tearing ligaments can lead to arthritis due to abnormal stresses on previously normal joints. Large breed dogs are more susceptible to osteoarthritis due to increased weight and stress on the joints. Dogs who are overweight, senior, working or have medical conditions such as diabetes are also at an increased risk of osteoarthritis.

Treatment and prevention T reatments for arthritis are varied but focus on reducing pain and improving mobility.

• Pharmaceutical treatments can include steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, polyglycosaminoglycans (drugs that prevent cartilage breakdown) and painkillers.

• Surgical treatments may be necessary for some conditions.

• More natural treatments include glucosamine, Omega 3 fatty acids, dietary therapy, acupuncture, laser or magnetic therapy, herbal treatments, chiropractic, massage and physiotherapy including water therapy.

• Weight loss and exercise are extremely important for any arthritic animal.

A good healthy diet and proper exercise can help prevent arthritis or reduce its effects.

Maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding obesity are critical. Omega 3 fatty acids can help prevent the inflammation seen with degenerative joint disease.

Supplements like glucosamine can also help prevent arthritis.

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Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is also seen in cats. In a recent study, it was found that 90% of cats over the age of 12 had radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease. Clinical signs of arthritis in cats can be a reluctance to use the litter box, poor grooming habits, decreased appetite, weight loss, depression, neurological signs and lameness. Many cases of arthritis are idiopathic in nature.

Focus on inflammatory arthritis Inflammatory joint disease can be caused by infections (septic arthritis) or immune mediated disease. Diagnosis is critical for both these types of arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis is usually accompanied by systemic illness such as fever, loss of appetite and painful movement. Generally, multiple joints are involved.

Infectious joint disease can be caused by bacteria, tick borne diseases (such as Lyme disease) or fungal infections.

These organisms and the body’s response to them damage the joint and the cartilage.

Immune mediated arthritis can be caused by an underlying immune deficiency or problem. It results from the body attacking itself. Rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus are two types of inflammatory arthritis, neither of which is very common in animals.

How it arthritis diagnosed?

Radiography of the bones and joints can confirm degenerative joint disease that had been diagnosed based on clinical signs. In cases of suspected infectious or immune arthritis, a joint fluid analysis may be needed.

Special blood tests may also be needed to diagnose conditions such as tick borne arthritis and lupus.

Learning something about the pathology of arthritis and its causes will help you determine when your companion animal might be starting to suffer from the disease and is in need of a veterinary diagnosis and treatment. A little education on your part can mean a long, healthy and painfree life for your best friend!

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

My 13-year-old mixed breed dog has just been diagnosed with kidney disease after she urinated in the house one night and I noticed the urine was tinged with blood. The vet has put her on a low-protein prescription canned diet. It looks and smells bland and she doesn’t really like it. Are there any natural remedies that can help slow the progress of kidney disease?

Blood in the urine is much more typical of a bladder rather than a kidney problem. True kidney disease is diagnosed by other aspects of a urinalysis besides blood traces.

It’s more commonly diagnosed by blood tests showing elevations in several specific values.

If true kidney issues are present, Vetoquinol makes two excellent products called Azodyl and Rubenal. If blood phosphorus levels are elevated, they also make a third product named Epakitin. Kidney by Miller Pharmacal and homeopathic Renal Drops by Professional Complementary Health are ones I have used over the years with excellent success.

Current veterinary science indicates that protein restrictive diets may not be a wise choice, especially with early stage kidney disease, as it may contribute to undesirable wasting and emaciation. If this is a bladder issue, then UT Strength by Vetri-Science Labs is a good choice.

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Q

I have a golden retriever who gets yeast infections in her ears and on her tummy. As soon as one clears up, the other starts. I feed her a teaspoon of yogurt a day and fortunately it has subsided but I’m sure it won’t last. I am feeding her Lamb Rice Meal (Science Diet) but would like to change it to a holistic food. Can you suggest something?

When applied topically, solutions of apple cider vinegar diluted in water can work wonders with yeasty ear problems in retrievers. Even though yogurt is appearing to help your dog, I’d prefer a probiotic made specifically for dogs and that is not dairy sourced. Rx Biotic by Rx Vitamins is one of my favorites.

One of the most important factors would be to feed her a diet of high quality ingredients, focusing on meat proteins and vegetables with little to no grain-based ingredients.

Read labels and look for real food ingredients. Of equal importance is the addition of a good high quality fish oil supplement.

Q A

I have my dog’s rabies shots up to date but others are due: leptospirosis, corona and canine DHPP. The last time these shots were given was in January 2008. Zayda is a female golden retriever and weighs 91 pounds. Are these vaccines absolutely necessary? Could I wait a little longer to have them done?

You have hit upon my favorite topic of discussion, and one in need of proper clarification and truth. The direct answer to your question is no, these vaccines are absolutely not necessary, and you can almost definitely wait longer to have them done. In so many cases, you can wait till the end of the animal’s lifetime, at which point they truly are not needed!

Blood tests called titers can determine levels of vaccination immunity, especially for diseases signified as “core” or made absolutely necessary by organizations such as the AVMA. Aside from rabies, the two primary core diseases needing vaccination are distemper and parvovirus. Hepatitis (also known as adenovirus-2) is also on this list but not as strictly enforced or considered as necessary. Besides being just unnecessary in so many cases, the list of documented or observed adverse reactions from vaccines has mounted tremendously.

Dr. Ron Schultz of the School of Veterinary Medicine in Wisconsin has demonstrated minimum duration of immunity derived from a distemper vaccine to be seven years, even up to 15! Rabies is the only legally mandated core vaccine (every three years in most states and provinces), but the Rabies Challenge Fund is attempting, by scientific proof, to lengthen the time interval needed between these vaccines.

Q

My seven-year-old Siberian husky sheds hair all year round. Whenever I brush her, I get enough hair off her to practically fill a plastic grocery bag, and more just keeps coming off. She is mainly an indoor dog but gets outside for good exercise every day. I don’t agree with keeping dogs outside all the time. Is that why she’s shedding so much? There animal wellness

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Q

is hair all over the house, and in the furnace ducts.

What can I do to keep her from shedding so much?

A

Excessive shedding has become a common complaint and one I have been hearing a lot over the last several years. I personally feel it has something to do with the environmental changes we are witnessing.

When I was younger and traveling with my family to see the autumn color changes in New York, we typically went during late September. I now find myself doing this in late October and even into early November. Shedding cycles in animals are influenced by these seasonal shifts and I am detecting a “confusion of nature” that’s possibly contributing to more bizarre shedding patterns and cycles.

One basic rule is that if a good hair coat is replacing the falling hair, and there are no areas of thinness or alopecia, then it is true shedding and not a skin disease. In any case, make sure you are feeding your husky a high quality diet of meat protein and veggies with or without low levels of a cooked carbohydrate. The number one supplement for good skin and hair health is high quality fish oil.

I have a nine-and-a-half-year-old Akita who started having skin problems two years ago. Most of the hair on her tail and the back of her legs is gone. There were other areas where she lost hair, but most of those have grown back.

The first year she had many ear infections (treated with drops and ointment) and she has also had many staph infections (treated with antibiotics). She is on medicine for a thyroid problem and I had an allergy test done and changed her food (no wheat, beef, yeast, etc.), but the itching continues. I feed her dry food and chicken breast meat and continue to do so.

I took her to a dermatologist and they started her on allergy shots. I spray her with Frontline every two weeks.

I also have her bathed every three weeks with medicated and oatmeal shampoo and conditioner. They said the hair loss on her back end is due to fleas even though I give her Sentinel every month. This is all helping, but the hair on her tail and back legs won’t grow back.

A

Editor’s Note: Consider sending your husky to a trusted groomer for a brushing out a couple times a year. Their grooming tools are better equipped to take out the loose undercoat.

The affected areas on your dog’s body – her tail and the back of her legs – are primary areas for fleas. But realize that a clinical flea problem is primarily due to the dog’s reaction, sensitivity and especially an allergy to flea saliva.

High quality, grain-free canned foods, or ideally a homeprepared or raw diet, are the healthiest way to go and do not create as much of the metabolic waste residue that contributes to allergy complexes.

For supplementation, Betathyme by Best For Your Pet and especially a high quality fish oil could lend tremendous support. I also like the herbal preparation Spring Tonic

by Animals Apawthecary. A homeopathic specific for this condition is Flea Aid by Professional Complementary Health.

Although Frontline does have an indication in more severe cases, I am concerned about you using it every two weeks. For many years, we have been using more natural products with positive results and no adverse reactions.

Even if they do not totally eradicate a flea problem, they do work and in many cases can minimize the quantity of chemical products required to achieve similar results.

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Q A

I recently got a new puppy (she’s 13 weeks old) and immediately began to transition her from a kibble-only diet to a combination puppy kibble and homemade diet. I am wondering how I can ensure she is receiving the nutrients she needs for growth. Any advice would be appreciated.

Although each dog is an individual with different nutritional requirements, the basic homemade diet should consist of at least 50% high quality meat protein, with veggies as the remainder. Grains are not a requirement and, in some dogs, can actually add to health problems. But for a healthy dog, adding a small quantity of grains every so often, or especially white and/or sweet potatoes, is okay.

A good multivitamin/mineral supplement derived from whole food sources along with a high quality fish oil supplement are good additions, along with one of many basic calcium supplements if you are feeding a predominantly meat diet. Also, if you are feeding anything but raw, I recommend the addition of a digestive enzyme supplement such as Prozyme.

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warm & Fuzzy

Taking a chance on

Walter

by Esta Bianchi

Thanks to plenty of TLC, Walter is now a new dog.

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I

t’s been said that dogs never forget people and experiences, but I can only hope Walter forgets the life he had before coming to live with us.

In between the pain of losing one dog to cancer and the pangs of guilt that come with desiring another, Walter ended up not being anything we were looking for – but beyond everything we wanted.

Just three weeks after losing our beautiful golden retriever Wembley to cancer, my husband and I started planning for a Newfoundland puppy, hoping to get one in the spring. Not ruling out the rescues and shelters, I scoured websites for Newfoundlands, but also looked at golden retrievers just in case.

That’s when I found him. “Pops” was a disabled senior golden/chow mix stuck on death row with one week to live. The odds were stacked against him. He was old, at a high-kill shelter, and had a disability described in his posting as a “deformed ankle.” His sad eyes stabbed my broken heart, and I knew “Pops” needed me.

Although a little apprehensive about the challenge of a disabled dog after coming off the cancer care of another, I sent the link from the website to my sister, and she agreed to make the drive with me. After a little back and forth discussion with my husband about putting the Newfoundland puppy on hold, we agreed that no matter what condition “Pops” was in, it would be better for him to live out his remaining time with us than die in a shelter without a family.

When I called the pound where “Pops” was being held, the volunteer who answered the phone asked if I really wanted him because of his bum leg. “We were just going to put him down,” she said. Hearing this made me even more determined, and I could not get to that dog fast enough.

On February 18, 2010, my sister and I left central Michigan at four in the morning and started driving toward Ohio. We arrived seven hours later. As I plowed the car up a slushy, snow-covered hill, a cloud of dread and fear crawled over me. After navigating past a small row of buildings and nearly getting stuck, we came upon a decrepit building with no windows, and a very small sign that indicated this was indeed the dog pound. Sadness cried out from all directions.

My sister and I walked in to hear the voices of lost souls crying to be let out. The volunteer was hosing down the floor in the dim, nearly black room.

We came upon a decrepit building with no windows, and a very small sign that indicated this was indeed the dog pound. animal wellness

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Thanks to exercise, a healthy diet, socialization and a pack that includes two other dogs and two cats, he is now happy and unafraid.

As my eyes adjusted, the sweet face of “Pops” peered at me from the first kennel by the door. The volunteer opened the cage, and I knelt down to see him.

He was an absolute mess. His puffy fur clung to his skin, matted like dreadlocks. (It was so matted that when he got a haircut, the groomer said it came off in one chunk.) He had an eye infection, a large eye tumor, and he shook violently with fear. But despite all this, he was eager to give and receive affection.

Adrenaline poured through me. My hands were shaking and my knees were weak. I just wanted to take “Pops” and get out, especially after learning the dogs were euthanized in front of the ones waiting in line. I paid 20 dollars for him, and my sister and I headed back to Michigan, leaving his close call behind and eager to give him a new lease on life.

“Pops”, now Walter, had a rough beginning with us.

Being a stray, he came with no hints to his history other than probable abuse due to his fear of men and most people in general. He was so terrified of everything that we had to carry him up and down the steps and even around the house.

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The day after picking Walter up, I took him to the vet, fearing he would need to be put down due to some debilitating illness. Even so, I knew anything was better than him dying without a family. Luckily, that wasn’t the case, and the vet gave us an approximate age of ten years. We learned Walter had radial nerve paralysis in his bad leg, but amputation was not needed. He did have to have the eye tumor removed.

Four months later, Walter is a new dog. Despite his dark past and disability, Walter can run (not very fast, but he can), go for short walks and play.

My heart swells when Walter’s glistening eyes meet mine and he reaches out to me with his paw. I know he is endlessly saying “thank you”, but we are even luckier than he is. We took a chance on him, and he healed our grief. He will never take Wembley’s place, but he made his own, one that let us know we can save someone who needs it, even if it isn’t who we expected. There will always be new Newfoundland puppies, but there will never be another Walter.

Rescue ... is only the beginning.

Sometimes it seems they rescue us as much as we rescue them.

And then they destroy the house when you’re gone.

It’s not that they want to be bad, their actions are their words. You have to listen.

Flower Remedies

But when you don't know what's going on or how to make it stop, there is help!

R & R Essence Abandonment Jealousy Aggression Fear Obsessiveness Neediness Spraying

Got Questions?

We've Got Answers!!

Can't decide which is right for your pet? call (520) 886-1727 or (520) 293-6639 to ask!  

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S

tiffness, lameness, pain…they’re common problems in many older animals. Unfortunately, chronic pain from tendon and ligament issues and injuries is one of the most difficult disorders for a veterinarian to cure.

Before any sign of arthritis shows up on an x-ray, the animal is often suffering from an intermittent lameness that worsens after exercise. Referred to as a “soft-tissue injury”, most veterinarians will treat it with non-steroidal antiinflammatories and rest. But tendons and ligaments generally have a poor blood supply, and incomplete healing is common after injury. That means these normally strong bands of fibrous or connective tissue become stretched out, weak and a source of pain.

The points subjected to the most mechanical stress in the body are where the tendons and ligaments attach to the bones. These points are also the areas of highest weakness in the ligaments. This is what makes them so prone to injury.

In addition, the highest concentration of pain sensors inside the body is found in the periosteum (the thin connective tissue covering the bone) and the ligaments. On a scale of pain sensitivity, where we look at which part of the body hurts most when injured, the periosteum ranks first, followed by ligaments, tendons, fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds muscle) and finally muscle. Cartilage contains no sensory nerve endings.

When cartilage is damaged, tendons and ligaments are usually damaged as well, and that’s what hurts.

Forget drugs or surgery. Prolotherapy is an effective and non-invasive way to alleviate chronic joint pain in your companion.

by Rona Sherebrin, DVM, CVA

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Ligaments and tendons are made of taut bands of collagen, a fibrous material and the building block of connective tissue. The tough gristle in your steak is made of connective tissue. In tendons and ligaments, the collagen fibers are oriented like the strands of a rope.

Damage in these structures leads to

increasing looseness (laxity) in the joints they support.

The abnormal mechanical strain caused by this laxity leads to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis.

When there is a complete tendon or ligament tear or rupture, such as commonly occurs in the anterior cruciate ligament of the stifle (knee), or in the gastrocnemius (Achilles) tendon of the hock (ankle), surgery is the best option for stabilizing the joint. But what about partial tears? Currently, most veterinarians recommend surgery for those as well, since they are weak areas and prone to fully rupture in the future. But many people would rather not have a surgical procedure performed on their animal if there is a viable alternative.

Prolotherapy is the rehabilitation of an incompetent structure, such as a ligament or tendon, by the induced proliferation of new cells.

Introducing prolotherapy Good news! Another mode of therapy can strengthen those weak structures. It’s called prolotherapy. The prefix “prolo” means “offspring” in Latin. Prolotherapy is also called “proliferation therapy” or “regenerative injection therapy” (RIT).

It was first developed in Germany in the late 1800s and was refined in North America by Drs. Hemwall and Hackett in the 1950s. Dr. Hemwall published a large survey (involving 1,871 patients) in which 75.5% of participants stated that prolotherapy cured them. Nearly all the patients (99.8%) reported some improvement.

Only 0.2% reported no improvement. Veterinarians started performing prolotherapy in the 1970s by studying with physicians trained in the procedure, and now specific veterinary courses in prolotherapy are offered.

Prolotherapy involves the injection of sterile nutrient solutions or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) directly into weakened connective tissues such as joints, tendons and ligaments – especially at the point of attachment to the bone, the area that is weakest and produces the most pain. This injection promotes increased collagen formation. This is mediated by stimulating the growth of local stem cells. The injections trigger the release of animal wellness

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Prolotherapy can be used for a variety of joint issues • Hip dysplasia • Anterior cruciate injury (ACL) • Neck pain, back pain • Wobbler’s syndrome • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) • Tendonitis • Elbow dysplasia • Arthritis

a variety of growth factors in the targeted area. These growth factors stimulate stem cells to proliferate and differentiate into the cells necessary for repairing the injury or degenerative condition.

an “activator” of the PRP. The concentrated mixture of platelets and WBCs are then injected into the injured site. The concentrated platelets release and trigger local cells in the injured tissue to release the growth factors that stimulate healing.

The growth factors include Insulin-like Growth Factors I-IV, Transforming Growth Factor Beta, Epidermal Growth Factor, Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor, Platelet Derived Growth Factor and many others. These are released during prolotherapy treatments and appear to be the main basis for repair. It has been shown that elevating the concentration of glucose (sugar) by 0.5% in the fluid surrounding the fibroblasts induces the DNA machinery to release numerous growth factors such as those mentioned above.

Different prolotherapy “cocktails” are used by different practitioners, and can include dextrose, vitamins and homeopathic solutions. A small quantity of local anesthetic is included to reduce the immediate discomfort of the injection, and prevent “wind-up” pain, which occurs when nerve cells are stimulated and continue signalling pain even when the source of injury is gone.

PRP is prepared by drawing a small quantity of blood from the patient, which is then placed in a special processing centrifuge that separates platelets, white blood cells (WBC) and serum from red blood cells. The platelets and WBCs are then concentrated and collected into a sterile syringe. Some of the blood is used to create

The healing effect is a graded, controlled reaction producing repair of weak and damaged connective tissue.

When properly applied, prolotherapy does not induce scar formation. The bonds in the connective tissue are stronger and healthier, and the tissue is thicker than before treatment. With each treatment, tissues continue

Veterinary applications

The abnormal mechanical strain caused by this laxity leads to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis.

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to strengthen until the healing is complete and the pain resolved. Joint laxity decreases due to a strengthening and tightening of the treated tendons and ligaments. This reduces or eliminates pain from muscle spasms and also reduces the need for the body to produce excess bony tissue to assist stabilization, as occurs in osteoarthritis.

Since the injections need to be placed with great accuracy, and may cause temporary discomfort, most dogs and cats will require a sedative for the procedure, and some may need a short general anaesthetic. The typical hospital stay is half a day. The injections can be placed into multiple locations at one session, and usually a series of three to five sessions, two to four weeks apart, is required.

Any injection carries with it a small risk of infection, but this is rare in prolotherapy and minimized by the use of strict sterile techniques. All prolotherapy solutions are sterile materials labelled for injection. PRP is produced from your animal’s own blood, so there is no concern about rejection or disease transmission. Recent research even suggests that PRP may have antibacterial properties.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam and aspirin should not be

used during prolotherapy treatments because they stop the release of the growth factors essential to the therapy’s effectiveness. It is not usually necessary to use pain medication for more than a few days after the treatment.

Ice and rest provide comfort in the first few days, then heat, stretching and passive range of motion exercises are added. Rehabilitation exercises to help strengthen weakened muscles are also often used to support the healing process.

Veterinarians trained in prolotherapy can be found around the world. Many are listed on the American Holistic Veterinarians Association’s website at ahvma.org.

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If your dog becomes aggressive, don’t assume it’s a behavioral problem or that he’s just being “bad”. It could mean he’s ill or in pain.

by Sara Jackson

J

ake was a cheerful, loving dog. The Shih tzu cross was friendly with everyone and enjoyed romps at the local dog park. Then one day, without warning, he snarled and bit his person, Meg, when she tried to pet him. Hurt and shocked, she took Jake to the vet where she learned he had a painful ear infection that made him sensitive to touch. With the proper treatment, Jake was soon back to his sociable and affectionate self.

Not all dogs are as fortunate as Jake. Every year, thousands of aggressive dogs find themselves in shelters because their families assume they’ve developed behavioral problems that can’t be fixed. Many of these dogs are euthanized because they are deemed untrainable.

Whether a dog’s aggression occurs suddenly or develops gradually over time, it’s important to consider the possibility that the cause might be physical rather than behavioral. In fact, more than 50 medical conditions can turn Fido into Cujo. They include injury, arthritis, congential defects, oral problems, ear infections, diminishing eyesight and

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more. Behaviors arising from such physical problems can include “growling, baring of teeth, and tail tucked between the legs if the dog is fearful,” according to veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk. “The tail may also be up or straight out in a dominant position.” Snapping and biting may also occur, depending on the problem.

Because we usually associate these postures with anger or fear, it’s natural to assume they spring from behavorial rather than physical causes, especially if there are no other visible symptoms. But before seeking the help of a trainer or behavior specialist, have your dog seen by a veterinarian to rule out a physical condition that might be causing him pain or discomfort.

Brain effects Along with conditions that cause discomfort leading to aggression, there are many others, such as the following, that actually have a physical or neurological effect on the brain. With some of these diseases, the accompanying symptoms make it obvious the dog is

More than 50 medical conditions can turn Fido into Cujo. sick and not just acting out; with others, though, the signs may be more subtle.

• Encephalitis is a brain inflammation that can result in aggressive or fearful behavior. It can be either viral or bacterial, and can arise from diseases such as distemper or rabies. The causes of this condition are usually associated with infection, says Dr. Newkirk.

“The behavior depends on the location of the infection,” he says.

• Hypothyroidism is caused by an abnormally low level of thyroid hormones and affects more than 50 purebreds and crossbreeds. Symptoms include weight gain, hair loss and behavioral changes, including fear and aggression. Dr. Newkirk states that aggressive behavior in dogs with hypothyroidism is due to a special form of thyroid disease, called autoimmune thyroiditis.

• Cognitive dysfunction syndrome can arise as an animal grows older, and is essentially the equivalent of Alzheimer’s in humans. Over the age of ten, 50% of canines will display symptoms such as memory loss and disorientation in familiar surroundings. This decline in mental faculties may cause your old friend to become aggressive at times. “These dogs are treated with diet, nutritional support and medication such as seglinine,” says Dr. Newkirk.

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• Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar. Symptoms include muscle weakness, glassy eyes, collapse, disorientation and tremors. The dog may become fearful or snappy.

If he exhibits any of these symptoms, get him to a vet. Natural, long-term care for a hypoglycemic canine involves feeding smaller meals throughout the day, rather than one large meal in the morning and at night.

• Hydrocephalus basically means water on the brain, though the “water” is actually excessive quantities of cerebrospinal fluid caused by overproduction, obstruction or reabsorption. Dogs who suffer from this condition will show signs of irritability, knuckling of the paws, will sleep all the time, suffer seizures and have a clumsy gait. Hydrocephalus occurs most commonly in brachycephalic breeds such as pugs,

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Encephalitis is a brain inflammation that can result in aggressive or fearful behavior. bulldogs, boxers and Chihuahuas – breeds known to have dome-shaped skulls or short noses. Toy breeds can be afflicted as well.

• Epileptic seizures can be difficult to diagnose because their cause can arise from a variety of problems, such as diabetes or hypoglycemia, liver and kidney problems, infections, tumors and brain damage. Dr. Newkirk explains that aggression brought on by seizures occurs just before or after the attack. Diagnosis is done with both physical and neurological exams. Further testing

such as blood work and radiographs can also be used.

While there is no cure for epilepsy, medication can help minimize the frequency, duration and severity of the seizures.

• Brain tumors not only lead to aggression, but can alter your dog’s mental status with symptoms such as irritability, confusion, increased barking or whining, trouble seeing, excessive circling and a decreased appetite. “Herbals, homeopathy, neoplase and Poly-MVA can be used to treat brain tumors holistically,” says Dr. Newkirk.

• Head trauma is fairly common when it comes to our sometimes accident-prone companions, whether they’ve been hit by a car or have fallen from a height. Head trauma of any kind can cause swelling or excessive bleeding, which interferes with normal brain function and can cause your dog to become aggressive. Additional symptoms to look for are loss of consciousness, change in pupil size, bleeding from different orifices, seizures and a tilted head. Veterinary attention should be sought immediately.

• Rage syndrome, also known as behavioral seizures, causes partial seizures in the part of the brain that controls aggression. A sign of this condition is when a dog suddenly becomes aggressive, but in the next moment is back to his calm normal self. A veterinarian who specializes in neurology is best equipped to diagnose this condition, using an EEG and genetic testing.

Any unexplained aggression in your canine companion should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Chances are it’ll turn out to be something simple that’s making him cranky, like an ear or gum infection, but it’s best to be sure he’s not suffering from something more serious. Either way, he’s not just being a “bad” dog.

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Passion Driven by

Concerned about the use of anesthesia during dental scalings, two animal-loving entrepreneurs were motivated to develop a safer simpler way to keep teeth clean and mouths healthy.

by Ann Brightman Bud Groth and a canine friend.

M

ost people dread taking their dogs or cats to the veterinarian for a dental cleaning, since the procedure usually involves anesthesia. Yet dental issues are a health problem in most animals, so it has to be done, right? Not necessarily.

Thanks to Bud Groth and his former business partner David Petersen, there is another way. In 2003, the men founded PetzLife, a company dedicated to natural dental care and other pet products. It started with David, who has a passion for animal health and nutrition. “He learned that over 85% of all illnesses in animals originate in the oral cavity,” says Bud. “He also found that thousands of dogs and cats die or are injured by anesthesia.”

David and Bud first tried some anesthesia-free scaling clinics, but found that wasn’t really the answer either.

“There had to be a better way than wrapping dogs and cats in towels and blankets and doing the procedure with the animal visibly stressing out.”

The men returned to the drawing board and did more research. “We happened on the ingredients of grapefruit seed extract, grape seed extract and grain alcohol as a viable alternative to scaling, and it worked.” That’s when PetzLife was born. Available in a gel or spray, the Petzlife line includes a variety of products for removing plaque from a dog or cat’s teeth and controlling the bacteria that can lead to dental disease, without the need for

brushing or anesthesia. Flavors include peppermint oil and salmon oil – Bud reports that cats especially like the salmon oil-flavored gel. “The products are all natural,” he adds. “They’re also easy to use and very economical when compared with anethesia scaling. We also now have many anesthesia-free scaling clinics on board using PetzLife before and after the procedure – without wrapping the animal.”

PetzLife offers a variety of additional products such as shampoos and conditioners, aromatherapy mists and an herbal flea and tick repellent. “We also do many promotions with the rescue community by donating product for use in their facilities. Many times a shelter dog or cat is given a bad rap for being overly aggressive, and they’re put down. In some cases, the only reason they are acting this way is because their mouths hurt so badly they don’t want anyone touching them.”

Bud has since purchased David’s share of the business and says he loves going to work each day. “I take phone calls just to get a pulse on what people are asking or saying about our product – over half our business comes from referrals calling to say how a friend or relative has used our product and loved it, and how they do not want to risk anesthesia.” Bud adds that he is very compassionate when it comes to animals, and that we are responsible for their well being. “We are their protection.”

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tasty toppers

8

These recipes pack a punch of flavor and nutrition, and they’re simple to make and serve. Just use them as a sauce or garnish for her regular meals, and watch her enjoy!

by Audi Donamor

V

ariety is crucial to a healthy diet. A selection of foods and ingredients means your companion is getting the full range of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients she needs to stay in top condition. Today’s premium foods offer a choice of protein sources and flavors to keep your companion looking forward to his meals. You also have the option of home-cooking her food from scratch.

You can add even more dietary variety by dressing your dog or cat’s meals with tasty and nutritious toppers. The following recipes and ideas combine optimum nutrition with flavor – and they’re easy to prepare. Try and choose organic products wherever possible.

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Simple stock

Bone booster

Ingredients

Ingredients

•12 cups filtered water

• 1 to 2 pounds chicken or turkey bones OR 2 large beef marrow bones or other marrow bones (only certified organic bones, with no hormones or antibiotics, should be used)

•1 1/2 pounds chicken necks and backs •1 carrot, cut in pieces •1 celery stalk, cut in pieces • 2 fresh Shiitake mushrooms, cut in slices; if fresh mushrooms are not available, use 2 large dry Shiitake mushrooms

•2 cloves garlic • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or 1/2 lemon

•1 clove garlic

•Filtered water

• 1 small piece fresh ginger root or 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder

•Handful (1/2 cup) of fresh parsley

•1 teaspoon sea salt •Handful (1/2 cup) of fresh parsley

Instructions

• Other herbs of your choice can be added, including marjoram, thyme and oregano.

Place the bones, vinegar or lemon juice, and garlic in a large pot or crock pot. Cover with filtered water. Bring the mixture to a boil, skimming the “particulates” and foam that rise to the top, then turn down the heat to a low simmer. Leave the bones to simmer away all day or night. Add the parsley just a few minutes before you drain the broth from the bones.

Instructions This nutrient-dense broth can be used as a topper for regular meals.

Place all ingredients in a stockpot. Bring to a rolling boil, skim off the foam, turn the heat down to a low simmer, and leave the pot to sit and stew for about six hours. Refrigerate overnight. Next morning, skim the fat off the top, remove the meat and vegetables, strain the stock and store in containers.

It freezes beautifully.

The meat (cooked bones removed) and cooked vegetables can be added to your companion’s meals. Broth can be added to his drinking water for extra nourishment and to encourage adequate water intake.

Discard the bones, but keep all the meat, cartilage and marrow in the broth. This makes a perfect meal topper. Cartilage and tendons provide instant chondroitin sulphates and glucosamine. This is a great broth to store in the freezer. It also makes a good base for soups, stews and extra special treats, and can be used for the whole family. Bone marrow soup contains stem cells!

Liver lottery Ingredients • 1 cup chopped raw liver (beef, chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, etc.; only certified organic liver should be used) •2 tablespoons filtered water • 1 tablespoon potato flour (optional) • 1 clove garlic, finely minced •Pinch of turmeric

Instructions Combine all ingredients in a small pan and gently sauté on medium heat.

Make sure it has cooled completely before serving. This recipe takes less than five minutes to prepare. It can also be easily whirled in a food processor and served as a sauce.

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Purrfect poached fish Ingredients •1/4 pound white fish (tilapia, Pollock, Ling cod) •1/2 cup filtered water •1 clove garlic •1 teaspoon fresh parsley • 1 teaspoon on fresh catnip or 1/2 teaspoon dried catnip •1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Flan for the finicky Ingredients

Combine all ingredients in a sauce pan, except the fish.

Bring to a boil. Turn down to a low simmer for 15 minutes.

Gently add the fish to the broth and cook for 15 minutes more. Cool before serving as a garnish.

• 2 cups finely grated raw carrot, sweet potato, yams or a combination; you can also use 2 cups finely grated apple* •6 raw egg yolks • 6 tablespoons broth or filtered water (for finicky felines, use the broth from a can of fish, like tuna) •1/2 teaspoon sea salt

*If you use apple, replace 1/2 teaspoon sea salt with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, or 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon carob

Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a Pyrex or cake pan.

Whisk egg yolks with water or broth and add sea salt. Add grated carrot and mix thoroughly. Bake 30 minutes. Cool, cut into strips and use as a garnish. If desired, top with goat yogurt.

Dr. Carter’s cancer cocktail Nobody has been able to put a cap on cancer yet, but every day we are learning new ways to support our animal companions.

Dr. John Carter, a British veterinary surgeon and research scientist, created this cancer cocktail after losing his own dog to the disease.

Ingredients •8 ounces raw chopped liver •4 ounces grated carrot •1/2 ounce ground Brazil nuts

Instructions Simply pureé the ingredients and serve as a topping, or if necessary, as a complete meal. It’s bursting with flavor and nutrients, including potassium and selenium.

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Congee Congee is traditionally called his-fan or rice water and is eaten throughout China, most often as a breakfast food. It is a thin porridge or gruel, made from of a handful (1/2 to 1 cup) of rice, simmered in five or six times the amount of water. Although rice is the most common whole grain for congees, millet, spelt and other whole grains can also be used, as well as pseudo whole grains like quinoa.

Cook the rice and water in a covered pot for four to six hours at a very low simmer. A crock pot or rice cooker works perfectly. It is better to use too much water than not enough, and it is said the longer the congee cooks, the more “powerful” it becomes. Simply add 1 teaspoon of Shiitake mushroom powder to your congee before cooking for a powerful healing whole food topper.

Perfect pumpkin purée Pumpkin is often called “medicine in a can” and is considered one of the world’s healthiest foods. It helps strengthen the blood and soothes a sick stomach. It is very rich in fiber and contains many disease-fighting nutrients, including one of the most valuable sources of bioavailable carotenoids. It contains vitamins A, C, E and K, folate, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.

Always have a can of plain canned pumpkin on hand for your animals. It’s great for diarrhea and it is just as good for constipation! Add ground cinnamon and carob for a great flavor boost, and to further protect your pet’s gastrointestinal system. Use it to garnish your companion’s meals.

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Bridging the gap

Thanks to A Modest Proposal, spacious enclosures and special adoption events have become a feature at pet stores that have opted to help end animal homelessness.

A growing number of pet stores are working with rescues to adopt out homeless animals rather than sell dogs and cats from puppy mills and backyard breeders.

by Paula and Lewis Turner

M

ost savvy animal lovers prefer to adopt dogs and cats from shelters or rescues rather than buy them from pet stores. In a lot of cases, pet store animals come from puppy mills and other disreputable or uneducated breeders that animal lovers don’t want to support.

Additionally, many pet stores don’t provide animals with a very nurturing or healthy environment, and may not even really know how to care for them adequately. Wouldn’t it be nice if pet stores not only got more educated but also worked with rescues to adopt out homeless dogs and cats rather than giving business to backyard breeders?

Two decades ago, we decided to take on the challenge of demonstrating that a full line pet store could do this, while also providing a healthy and caring environment for

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animals. In 1991, we opened a store called The PetCare Company in Hermosa Beach, California. From the start, we supported the SPCA’s mobile adoption program and worked with local rescues to help orphaned animals find loving homes.

Creating a blueprint Over the years, as we learned more, our main objective became to develop a step-by-step blueprint that would enlighten other pet store owners and rescues to create a mutually beneficial relationship. During the process, our store became both a laboratory and a classroom.

Four years of study, development, refinement and implementation formed the foundation for A Modest Proposal (amodestproposal.org), an initiative designed to

Lewis visits with two canine adoptees.

Our main objective was to develop a step-by-step blueprint that would enlighten other pet store owners and rescues to create a mutually beneficial relationship.

change the way people think about pet stores and rescues. The first phase in this initiative we dubbed Bridging the Gap, because it focuses on getting pet stores and rescues on the same page and working together.

We created our protocol through the combined efforts of a talented team of experts referred to as our “pack�. Included were the founders of Ken-Mar Rescue, Martie Petrie and Ken Guild. Their willingness to create a partnership with us, motivated by a shared goal to save lives, was instrumental. We also received input and guidance from veterinarians experienced in the special needs of rescues, and utilized holistic treatments created by herbalists like Robert McDowell to facilitate strong immune systems and healthy diets. Animal behaviorists such as Brian Lee worked to redirect potentially destructive energies by teaching techniques to help ensure a beneficial outcome with the orphans and their new families.

We also looked at how to create a healthy environment for adoptable animals in our store setting. Instead of putting them in cages or glass cases, the animals were housed in open enclosures with lots of toys, beds and clean warm towels. We also made sure our staff was properly educated in looking after the animals in our care. Unlike most traditional pet store animals, the dogs and cats were pampered, groomed, exercised and socialized while waiting for adoption.

Seeing eye to eye The success of A Modest Proposal hinged on supportive efforts between pet store owners and rescue workers, hence our Bridging the Gap campaign.

There has long been a monumental divide between these two industries.

Unfortunately, many noted representatives in the rescue field continue to use broad negative strokes when commenting on pet stores. But others, such as Kim Sill, leader of the Ban Puppy Mill Campaign for Last Chance for Animals, and Carole Davis, West Coast Director of Companion Animal Protection Society, have taken a lead in California by recognizing the positive role good pet stores can play in finding homes for orphaned animals.

To help bring stores and rescues together, our website offers detailed information on how the relationship can benefit both parties. For example, working with rescues helps amp up the credibility of a pet store. More customers tend to visit just to see the animals up for adoption, especially when the dogs and cats are housed in the store until adopted and don’t just appear for one day during special events. Shoppers stay in the store longer and spread the word to friends and family. animal wellness

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The dogs and cats were pampered, groomed, exercised and socialized while waiting for adoption.

Rescues, meanwhile, have the opportunity to give their dogs and cats more exposure and a greater chance of finding a home, especially if stores stop selling animals from other sources. Reducing the need for puppy mills and backyard breeders means fewer of these “businesses” thrive, which translates to fewer animals suffering, more needy dogs and cats being adopted and less euthanasia in shelters. It’s a win-win situation.

A growing trend As recently as 2008, finding a pet store that offered adoptions, even at weekend events, was tough. Happily, a growing number of stores are providing adoptions throughout the week, while many others that don’t have the space are hosting weekend visitations. We began with three listings and will soon exceed 50. And that’s just in California alone. We are confident that other states will follow suit.

A couple checks out some of the dogs up for adoption at a regional pet store.

In 2009, The PetCare Company was forced to close when two huge chain pet stores opened up on either side of us.

But A Modest Proposal is still going strong. Losing our store has given us the ability to pour our energies into our Bridging the Gap campaign, and we are busy reaching out to pet stores throughout the region and getting them on board with local rescues.

This little dog found a new home thanks to an adoption event at Shi Shi Pet Boutique in Manhattan Beach, California.

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the scoop Get ready for spring It’ll soon be flea and tick season again. Ticked Off! Tick and Flea Repellent from Deserving Pets offers you and your dog all-natural, chemical-free relief from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, gnats and other disease-carrying biting insects. A light misting provides protection all day – it will not sweat off like chemical repellents and can be used safely on children as well as dogs. Also mist your animal’s bedding once a week to keep it bug-free and smelling fresh.

Not recommended for cats. deservingpets.com

Happy anniversary

Clean and dry If you have a dog, then you know all about muddy paws and shedding hair. But they don’t have to ruin your car seats. Soggy Dog offers a line of seat covers for your car, SUV or truck. They’re made from a durable and water repellent lightweight fabric that prevents dirt and hair from weaving through the cover. They’re also machine washable and can be tumbled dry. Choose from covers to fit bucket seats or back seats. The company also has a water resistant cover for dog beds. soggydog.ca

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Dogs can easily slip on smooth floors, and their claws can wreak havoc with hardwood. Woodrow Wear’s Power Paws are non-slip canine socks your canine companion can comfortably wear inside the house for traction, floor protection and foot wound protection.

The company is celebrating its first anniversary since this unique product was launched – in that short time, Power Paws have been shipped to no fewer than 14 countries around the world. woodrowwear.com

Adoption festival If you’re looking to adopt a new animal companion, mark February 12 and 13 on your calendar. It’s the weekend of the Pet Fun Fest & Adopt A Pet-a-thon at Downsview Park in Toronto, Ontario. The theme of the show is animal adoption, and it features over 100 animal-related booths including vendors, dog rescues, cat rescues, Humane Societies and more. The event also includes speakers, demonstrations, an indoor play area for dogs, a canine fashion show, dog games and children’s activities. petfunfest.ca

Helping autistic kids After adopting their daughter, Starr, from a Kazakhstan orphanage, and funding the construction of two new playgrounds in underprivileged parts of Houston and Miami, designer Donald J. Pliner and his wife Lisa are now tackling autism with their new “Babydoll Collection”. It features handbags and loafers displaying glass beaded images of their Maltese, Babydoll, and 5% of proceeds go to 4 Paws for Ability, which provides service dogs to disabled children. So far, the Pliners have raised $10,000 to provide two autistic brothers, Dylan and Casey, with service dogs. The collection is available at Nordstrom, Amazon.com, Zappos.com and Donald J. Pliner’s concept stores in Miami, Houston, Las Vegas and San Jose.

Revealing idea If you enjoyed the movie Calendar Girls, you’ll want a copy of The Dr. ShowMore Calendar for 2011.

This artistic educational calendar was modeled by practicing integrative veterinarians – in the nude!

Each month depicts a different veterinary modality or procedure, and features fascinating sidebars of information about integrative veterinary medicine, from homeopathy to acupuncture.

The calendar was produced by the Center for Integrative Veterinary Care to celebrate the 250year history of the profession of veterinary medicine. All funds from the calendar’s sales will go directly to veterinary student scholarships and to the filming of Dr. DoMore.

Dr. DoMore (drdomore.com) is a series of DVD documentaries and other media and educational services, all designed to bring alternative and integrative modalities to mainstream veterinary medical care.

The documentaries will cover a variety of topics including raw diets, chiropractic, energy medicine, herbs and much more.

To order The Dr. ShowMore Calendar, visit drshowmore.org. animal wellness

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7 steps to finding a

lost

animal

Don’t push the panic button if Fido or Fluffy runs away or goes missing.

Instead, follow these suggestions to help him get back safe and sound.

by Erika Sorocco

O

ver the years, your perfect pooch or kitty has wiggled his way into your home and your heart, earning himself a starring role on your family tree. And then the unthinkable happens. He escapes through an open door, jumps a fence, or takes off after a squirrel – and before you know it, he’s nowhere to be seen, despite your frantic searching and calling.

“Most people believe their animals would never go missing, when, in fact, statistics show that one in three will go missing in their lifetime,” says Landa Coldiron, animal detective and owner of Lost Pet Detection. “Many times when people call me, they feel they have done everything possible, when they have not even scratched the surface of what needs to be done.”

If your companion ever goes astray, don’t despair. Follow these seven steps to help bring him safely home again.

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1

Plan, don’t panic

It’s easy to panic and imagine all kinds of horrible scenarios when your animal gets lost. You may even be experiencing some of the stages of grief. Hold it right there! He’s missing; he’s out there somewhere, perhaps frightened and seeking your comforting presence. Wasting precious time and energy worrying and speculating is not helping. Planning will help – and put you on the fast track to a successful recovery.

“Just running around, calling for your animal and trying random things at random times and locations can be a huge waste of time,” says Annalisa Berns, animal detective and owner of Pet Search and Rescue. “A plan helps you focus on what you are doing – and what to do next. A plan helps you prioritize the most effective techniques to try first, and what can be put off. It also helps you identify what tasks you can ask friends and family to help with.”

2

Ask for help

You may feel like shutting out the world and doing all the search work yourself. This is never a good idea. “People who work alone in their efforts to recover a lost animal are at risk of discouragement and burnout,” says animal detective Kat Albrecht, founder of Missing Pet Partnership and author of The Lost Pet Chronicles and Dog Detectives.

Friends and family serve as a support system. They also add strength to your search, and that could mean the difference between finding your best friend or not. “For most missing animal scenarios, it is a volume game,” says private investigator Karin TarQwyn. “In my experience, 90% of all missing animals are found due to other people’s eyes and ears. The more people who know your animal is missing, the higher the likelihood of recovery.

This is no different from a missing person investigation, except there’s no help from outside agencies and community groups.”

3

Pick up the phone

Talking on the phone is probably the last thing you’ll feel like doing when you can’t find your dog or cat. Being out on the street searching may make you feel more productive. But placing a few all-important calls to get the word out about your missing friend is an important step.

Five locations could be beneficial to your search: local animal control, animal-related businesses, animal shelters, veterinary offices and animal rescue groups.

Informing local animal workers and employees about your predicament will raise awareness and keep more people on the lookout for your companion.

4

Supersize your search

Posting pint-sized flyers on telephone poles, stop signs and store windows near your home may seem an effective way to get the word out about your missing animal, but to really attract the public’s attention, supersize your search by using huge posters. It’s far more proactive. “Giant neon posters are by far the number one method to recover lost animals and return them to their rightful families,” says Kat. “Follow the 5 + 5 + 55 rule – five words drivers can read within five seconds while driving 55 miles an hour. In our experience, big strategically-placed posters are one of the most successful techniques for recovering a lost animal.”

5

Network online

Social networking sites aren’t just for catching up with friends from high school or keeping track of family milestones. They are also one of the number one ways for spreading the word about missing animals.

Social media networks such as Facebook allow you to immediately send a “call to arms” about your search to your nearest and dearest – and give your friends the ability to send the alert to everyone in their network, and so on. With the power of social networking sites, half the animal wellness

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6

Consult a professional

Consistency is key when you start searching for your animal companion. But if you find you are getting nowhere, change things up and think outside the box. It could be the very thing that helps pinpoint his location and bring him home safe and sound. “If you’ve done everything traditional to find your animal, and you haven’t found him, it’s time to think about other techniques and strategies – and consult a professional,” says Annalisa. An animal detective is specially trained in search and rescue and can employ methods you may not know about or have access to. “Of course some animals return home on their own,” Annalisa adds. “However, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association and the California Veterinary Medical Association, the chances of a lost animal coming home on his own is only 11%. Don’t count on that.”

7

Just say no…to giving up!

You may feel drained, emotionally and physically, but throwing in the towel and giving up too soon,

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maybe before your search has even truly started, may be the worst mistake you can make. “Most people become disheartened after only a day or two when their animal goes missing,” says Annalisa. “Keep focused and keep searching – and not just for a few hours or days. I strongly suggest that people search for a minimum of two weeks – if not longer.”

Searching for a lost dog or cat is never easy or pleasant.

But following these steps will greatly enhance your chances of finding him again. And recovering a missing companion is the most rewarding feeling in the world!

Resources Kat Albrecht, Missing Pet Partnership, missingpetpartnership.com Annalisa Berns, Pet Search and Rescue, petsearchandrescue.com Landa Coldiron, Lost Pet Detection, lostpetdetection.com Karin TarQwyn, Private Investigator, k9pi.com

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Redofor rehab Is your companion in need of home care and rehabilitation?

Here are some safety and design tips to help ensure his comfort and recovery.

by DeAnna Radaj

W

hen a sick or elderly family member comes home from the hospital, a home health care worker may visit your house to make sure the space is safe and conducive to the patient’s recovery. But what about when your dog or cat is sick or injured, and in need of similar care?

Your companion animal is subject to some of the same illnesses, treatments and therapies we are, so shouldn’t you pay just as much attention to his comfort and safety at home as you would for a human relative?

Coming off surgery or recovering from an accident is difficult for all involved, but for your dog or cat, there are extra burdens. He can’t tell you where or when it hurts, he’s not able to play with his other four-legged friends, and he may feel generally miserable and uncomfortable.

Helping your animal recover at home means appointing yourself his personal home care worker. By ensuring his living space is safe and comfortable, you’ll help speed his return to health and mobility. What you need to do will

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depend on the type of injury, illness and/or procedure your dog or cat has undergone.

Surgical procedures An animal that undergoes any type of surgery or related procedure will likely have some sort of incision, stitches and/or raw patches from being shaved. Here’s how to help make his post-surgery less stressful: • Set aside a quiet area where the patient can rest peacefully away from the rest of the household. A kennel or crate in a guest bedroom or quiet corner of the main bedroom will do just fine. If you don’t have a kennel/crate, confine him to a specified area with gates. The goal is to keep him quiet.

• Place lots of warm blankets for the animal to sleep on, and use some sort of thick pad, rug or raised bed so he isn’t lying directly on the floor. This will give him some extra comfort.

• Low light (close the curtains, turn off lights) and soft music create a calming atmosphere.

Dr Lisa Kluslow of the Silver Spring Animal Wellness Center in Glendale, Wisconsin suggests you have your animal sleep in his confined “post-op” area the night before any type of procedure, so he gets used to sleeping there.

Make sure to supply the area with soft bedding, dim lights and quiet music, just as you would after the surgery. Make sure the room is at a comfortable temperature – the right temperature depends on your animal; a husky will feel better in a cooler room, while a smaller/short-haired dog will like it a little warmer.

Runners not only help prevent further injury, but also keep incisions and stitches from ripping. They’re a good idea for older animals or those with arthritis or other orthopedic concerns.

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Low light (close the curtains, turn off lights) and soft music create a calming atmosphere.

Good scents If you have a dog recovering at home, aromatherapy can play a role.

Clary sage and lavender essential oils are wonderful to use in a diffuser (be careful using essential oils around cats). Both these oils increase melatonin, which has been shown to help with recovery.

Protect the corners of walls and tables from e-collars by applying a single scent to all corners. The dog will learn to easily associate that particular scent with an area to avoid.

This same technique can be used for a sight-impaired dog when training him to know when stairs or corners are nearby.

Dr Kluslow suggests a floral or citrus scent on vertical surfaces, and musky or earthy scents on horizontal surfaces.

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Again, a quiet area with soft comfortable blankets, no noise or soft music playing will help your companion rest.

Physical rehabilitation therapy Companion animals sometimes break bones, sprain muscles or have back and spinal issues (think Corgis and dachshunds). They may need hydrotherapy, massage or other treatments in order to recover. To help keep the animal nimble and avoid further injury: • Use runners with non-skid rubber backing throughout the home, especially on hardwood or tile floors, so your companion can move about without sliding or slipping.

• Place food and water at a height that will eliminate added stress to his neck and spine. Raised feeders are becoming more popular and easier to find.

• Jumping up on furniture and running up or down stairs (indoors or out) is a big no-no for animals with these concerns. Ramps are a must. They’re inexpensive, easy to install and minimize risk of re-injury. Portable steps and ramps that require no installation can be placed next to furniture and beds, safely allowing your animal access to his favorite spot. This reduces strain on him – and on you if you have to continually pick him up.

Caring for an injured or ill animal at home can be stressful for everyone. Creating a safe and nurturing space for your companion will assist in his recovery and give you peace of mind as he heals.

Book reviews Title: 50

A LONGER AND HEALTHIER LIFE

Tricks to Teach Your Dog

Author: Sophie

Collins It’s a stormy winter’s day and there’s nothing for you and your dog to do – until you open this book, that is. 50 Tricks to Teach Your Dog will keep you and your canine companion busy for hours on end, indoors or out. A writer with a long-time interest in dog behavior, author Sophie Collins presents loads of fun tricks you can train your dog to perform.

The book opens with some simple tricks such as High Five, Say Please and Off to Bed, then follows up with some rainy (or snowy) day activities and a selection of tricks designed to enhance the human-canine bond.

“Mind games” provide mental stimulation – which is just as important to your dog as physical exercise -- while the “hard stuff” at the end of the book challenges your training skills and your dog’s learning abilities. Lots of color photos complement the instructions for each trick.

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Title:

Life to the Max

Author:

Robin Reynolds We all go through tough times in our lives, and maintaining a positive attitude is one of the best ways to weather the storm successfully. Just ask Max, a rescued Airedale whose canine wisdom features in Life to the Max. As told to his “mom”, writer Robin Reynolds, Max shares his thoughtful “maxims” about life, whether he’s dealing with the loss of a canine friend or the arrival of a baby, visiting the vet or getting into trouble.

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Illustrated with charming photos of Max and his friends, this book is sure to delight and uplift all who read it.

Publisher: Nice Creative

Fill in all the gaps in your pets nutrition. Order Now! Leader of the Pack in Preventive Supplements www.DeservingPets.com | 1.877.318.4825 animal wellness

87

Book reviews Title:

The Dog Selector

Author:

David Alderton

Dogs come in so many shapes and sizes that it’s hard to decide which one might suit you best. The Dog Selector can help narrow down your search. Authored by award-winning dog writer David Alderton, this beautifully-illustrated volume features 130 canine breeds (some of which you may have never heard of before!) and their characteristics.

From the Affenpinscher to the Yorkshire terrier, each page highlights a different breed with full color photos and notes on its appearance, size, personality traits, behavior, care and common health issues. You’ll also find fascinating details on the breed’s history and background, as well as simple “at a glance” tips on what makes each dog unique.

Both an invaluable reference guide and an absorbing coffee table volume, The Dog Selector is perfect for anyone who loves dogs, whether they’re looking for a new companion or not.

Publisher: Barron’s

Title:

Dogs & the Women Who Love Them

Author:

Allen & Linda Anderson

When the nurturing nature of women meets the loyalty and unconditional love of dogs, some special chemistry takes place. In Dogs & the Women Who Love Them, authors Allen and Linda Anderson celebrate the special bond that women share with their canine companions – those special friends who never criticize, make unreasonable demands, or give you unwanted advice, but just give love, understanding and comfort whenever it’s needed.

This moving book showcases stories about femininecanine connections that result in some courageous acts of compassion, love and healing – for the dogs, the women, and everyone whose lives they touch. The pooches featured in these stories range from rescue and shelter dogs to police and service dogs, and everything in between.

Each true tale concludes with a short meditation that encourages you to contemplate the lessons you might learn from the dogs in the stories, or from the canines in your own life.

Publisher: New World Library

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Events Beginning Animal Communication January 22-23, 2011 Northern VA & Traveller’s Rest Equine Elders Sanctuary You will be led through the basic steps of animal communication with guided meditations, enlightening discussions and telepathic exercises. You will build and form a foundation as you learn various ways to receive communication from animals. This 2-day workshop will give you an overview of what animal communication is and how you already communicate with your animal companions, animal friends and even wild animals.

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

Animal Communication: The Essentials

by Teleclass Thursdays at 8PM Eastern Time January 27, February 3, 10 & 17 Teleconference Requirement: The Basic 2-Day Animal Communication Workshop or a course with another animal communication teacher.

Discription: So you have completed the Basic 2-Day Animal communication Workshop and you would like more practice and experience. Maybe you are not feeling confident enough to participate in the student practice group on-line. Maybe you are ready to go deeper with your communication with the animals. No matter what level you are, this is the course for you.

This course consists of 4 lessons and corresponding homework assignments.

Lessons will be sent to you via email once a week, giving you enough time to

complete the homework before the next class. Each lesson will help you deepen your connection with animals as you learn what ways you receive information from the animals best. Each week you will practice with different animals, build your confidence as well as your ability to connect with the animals on a very deep level in any situation.

On the day/evening of the class meeting students will call into a teleconference line (long distance charges may apply).

Don’t worry if you are not able to make the live teleconference calls. You will receive a recording of the class by the following day along with the next week’s homework assignment and lesson(s).

Upon completing all of the homework assignments students will receive a certificate of completion.

For more information: Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 www.animalparadisecommunication.com GS125: Aromatherapy for End-of-Life Care, Loss and Grief Instructor: Tresa Laferty, Monday evenings (2 weeks) beginning February 7, 2011 Internationally available teleclass Essential oils can provide animals, their people, and caregivers with valuable support during the sacred end-of-life period in a gentle yet powerful way. This three part series will share what oils can be beautifully brought in on this path of transition and tender support.

For more information: Carol Schultz 815-531-2850 carol@animalspiritnetwork.com http://tinyurl.com/2bxdyk7

Animal Reiki Level One Workshop Feb 26-27, 2011 Northern VA & Traveller’s Rest Equine Elders Sanctuary Through lecture, enlightening discussion, exercises and practice, you will be led through the basic steps. Students will experience Reiki energy and learn different ways that Reiki can be used as a healing tool for both humans and animals. Upon completion of the two-day course you will be able to do a Reiki self treatment, hands on healing for friends and family and be able to offer Reiki to your own animal companion(s), other animals and even wild animals.

For more information: Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication. com www.animalparadisecommunication.com Introduction to Small Animal Massage March 24-26, 2011 Central Bark Doggy Day Care Manitowoc, WI This hands-on class is focused on massage techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner; it includes an overview of anatomy, business and ethical issues. Limited to eight participants. Prerequisite to the Evaluation & Ethics class.

For more information: Blue Sky School of Professional Massage 262-376-1011 depere@blueskyedu.org www.blueskyedu.org

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

89

passages

Dina

comes back

by Ellen Kohn

C

hristine and Dina’s relationship was a wonderful example of the divine connection between humans and animals. Even dancing was part of this incredible sisterhood. But their profound bond was shattered when Dina succumbed to cancer in July of 2009.

Christine did not expect her dog’s liver to rupture, causing sudden collapse and organ failure. During Dina’s final hour, Christine rested her head next to her dog’s and drifted into a meditative space. In the silence, Christine had a vision, a flash of a black and white dog with a medium build and short hair. The head and ears were not visible.

Afterlife communication Did Dina send this picture? After she passed, Christine wanted me to communicate with her to find out more, but she didn’t share the details of her vision with me before our sessions.

During my first spirit-to-spirit communication with Dina, the messages were for Christine: be frivolous, take classes, go dancing and drive more slowly. Christine was surprised and exclaimed, “I am German; I drive fast.”

During a second communication in September, Dina told me she wanted to be Christine’s Christmas puppy. Her message to Christine was: “You will recognize my spirit immediately.” She told us to search in western Colorado.

Dina said she would be more agile and athletic, with longer legs and a medium build. She told me she would be black

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Dina in her younger years, enjoying a winter walk.

and white, or brown and white. When I shared this physical description with Christine, she revealed her original vision to me. Our pictures matched!

Dina suggested we begin our search ten to 12 weeks after Christmas. She told me again that she would be in western Colorado. “Promise me you will trust in the universe,” she told Christine. “I am with you always, now and forever. Our spirits are linked, traveling beyond time and space.” She held fast to her December return to physical form.

Starting the search In February of 2010, Dina communicated to me that she was back. She was a black and white short-haired puppy in western Colorado. She told me she would wait for Christine, who had traveled to Germany in December.

When Christine returned, the search was on. Several weeks later, I found Kavik. Abandoned in an eastern Colorado dumpster with her siblings, she was now being fostered in Evergreen, west of Denver. Her strong compelling expression kept nagging at me and her physical description was right on.

Kavik was exuberant, playful and confident. All her quieter siblings had been adopted. She was the only one left.

Kavik shared several facts about Christine with me when I communicated with her. Among other things, she told me that Christine’s gold watch was a gift from her husband (true) and that she used to wear her hair back with a headband (true).

Was she the one?

In her original vision, though, Christine had seen two crescent moons on the dog’s underbelly. Kavik didn’t have these markings on her belly, although she did have two moons up near her head. Disappointed, I phoned Christine to tell her Kavik was not our girl.

“If only she would tell you something else,” Christine said.

“We need a direct hit, something big,” I replied. “Kavik, make this easy for us.”

Words and images flooded clearly into my communication space. Christine wondered if her other animals would recognize Dina. Kavik communicated to me that Katie didn’t like her. Katie was Christine’s cat who died while she was in Germany. Christine confirmed that Katie didn’t like Dina.

Next, I received a picture of Dina with her paws on Christine’s shoulders.

“Did Dina do this?” I asked.

“Yes,” said Christine. “Dina and I liked to dance. And she put her paws on my shoulders.”

I then heard the phrase “funny slippers.” Christine responded, “My mom gave me house shoes that had dogs on the toes. They were funny.”

Then I heard the word “ears” very clearly. I asked Christine if the word meant anything to her. “Don’t you remember the story about Dina’s

Annie is Christine’s new best friend.

ears?” she exclaimed. I said no. I had no recollection about Dina “growing into her huge puppy ears”.

One glitch caught us off guard: Annie was actually four months old, not two, which meant she had been born in October, not December as she had originally communicated. Why the disconnect with time?

Last October, Christine heard a dog bark and wondered then if Dina had been born. Although Dina told me she was born in December, there is no time on the other side; spirit-tospirit communication is not always that precise.

A happy “reunion” Christine shed tears of joy when she met Kavik. The young dog put her paws up on Christine’s shoulders, just as Dina use to do And Dina was famous for her nipping kisses, exactly what Kavik was doing. Christine was ecstatic.

Christine believes that Dina omitted the head and ears in her vision because of the joke about her own ears. In her new form, her ears are quite suited to her lean hound-like body.

ancient wisdom modern solutions

Kavik, now named Annie, resumed her role as alpha female and boss of Christine’s house, and never leaves her side. Her clear communications and persistence paid off. The ensuing detective work produced an astounding result. Christine and I almost gave up, but when Kavik shouted the word “ears,” we had our home run.

Does spirit-to-spirit communication work beyond the confines of time and space? I believe it does, and I also believe our animal spirits live on.

The human/animal bond is a timeless expression of unconditional love.

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Classifieds Animal Communicators 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.”

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Resolve problems and stress, improve behaviour, deepen understanding and your relationship.

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Consultations by phone/in person, lectures, workshops.

Call (519) 896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net www.suebecker.net JANET DOBBS – WORKSHOPS AND CONSULTATIONS. Animal communication, Animal/human Reiki. Deepening the bond between animals and humans. For information about hosting a workshop in your area. janet@animalparadisecommunication.com, (703) 648-1866 or AnimalParadiseCommunication.com SHIRLEY SCOTT - Internationally known Animal Communicator & 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 (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) 742-3297 or ibrammer@sympatico.ca or www.animalillumination.com

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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.

CRANIMALS.COM - The benefits of cranberry and other dark berries are the antioxidant-boosting key to unlocking the full potential of your dog, cat or puppy.

Buy online www.cranimal.com/buyNow.html AZMIRA HOLISTIC ANIMAL CARE The award winning leader in Natural Foods, Supplements, Herbs, Homeopathy, Flower Essences and Organic Topicals. Since 1982.

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Associations CANADIAN ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORKERS ASSOCIATION www.c-amba.org A growing group of qualified, complementary practitioners working to maintain the highest Standard of Ethical Practice for the benefit of and respect for the lives we impact.

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

(800) 776-2665; www.dogwise.com

Business Opportunity COMBINE YOUR PET-PASSION AND CAREER – Start your own turnkey, revenue-generating Pet Lover Resource Site designed to help LOCAL pet-related business obtain the affordable exposure they need, while providing a voice for consumers. We handle everything from set-up & hosting to video training and marketing assistance. With 58 sites live PetCONNECT™ is quickly

growing a national brand built on LOCAL market presence.

Don’t wait visit www.USAPetCONNECT.com/local email - info@USAPetCONNECT.com Canadian markets now available!

Distributors/Retailers JUST BECAUSE FOR DOGS Treats for dogs with special needs!

Overweight, Diabetic, Allergic to Wheat. All treats are made using “Human Grade” all natural ingredients. Inquiries @ www.JustbecauseforDogs.com or call (866) 974-DOGS SOJOURNER FARMS PET PRODUCTS - Our foods offer the superior nutrition of naturallyoccurring vitamins, minerals and enzymes that you can’t get from a cooked, processed pellet. No preservatives. Nothing artificial. Just all-natural, human-quality ingredients Natural food and treats since 1985. Inquiries @ www.sojos.com or (612) 343-7262 Pet Kelp -Simple ingredients.

Over 70 nutrients. These whole food nutrient boosters give a dog or cat the daily vitamins and minerals they need plus the extra supplements they deserve, in simple, all-natural, great tasting formulas.

Inquiries @ www.petkelp.com, or (707) 955-KELP Dr. Rose’s Remedies - skin treatment salve and spray are 100% all natural products. Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and antifungal. Made with all human grade ingredients, can be used for most skin conditions from hot spots in dogs to rain rot and wounds in horses. Inquiries @ www.drrosesremedies.com, or 610-558-4610 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 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

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.

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Flower Essence Therapy 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 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

Gifts & Accessories FOR THE LATEST IN GIFTS AND ACCESSORIES FOR ANIMAL LOVERS Visit www.pjpublications.com To save 15% on your first order please enter AWM15 at checkout.

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Holistic Veterinarians

Pet Portraits

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

ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS Specializing in oil painting for 31 years. Nationwide clientele.

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(603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.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 NEWKIRK FAMILY VETERINARIANS AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER - Dr. Mark Newkirk, Alternative Cancer Therapies, Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Ozone Treatments, Laser Pain Therapy, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination),.

Phone consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031

Paw Protection 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. HYPERLINK www.tammyandteddys. com www.tammyandteddys.com Phone number (860) 749-6552.

Pet Stores ANIMAL LOVERS PET SHOP - We provide an extensive assortment of organic, natural and holistic foods and supplements for dogs, cats, reptiles and birds as well as toys. www.animalloverspetshop.com (310) 378-3052

Reiki 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 Distant treatments available.

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.

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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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Tail end

That dog is ridiculous!

by Janet Caplan

B

ased on the current expression on Huey’s face, I can guess he’s had enough. Our almost ten-year-old American cocker spaniel appears to want to disassociate himself from the junior member of our family – Wally, his one-year-old counterpart. Wally’s been taunting him for the last half hour or so, begging him to play, stealing his favorite newspaper toy and jumping ahead of him on the stairs. I can almost hear them: “Come on, Huey, come on, just one more time, pleeeeease?”

Wally seems to say, in a whiny little boy voice.

“Get out of my face, kid,” Huey responds, staring him down. “It’s time for a nap…for both of us.”

I know Huey thinks Wally is ridiculous.

Is it the age difference, like a May/December romance? Is it puppy versus older puppy (as I characterize Huey)? Is it simply temperamental differences? I suppose it’s all the above with a bit of “sibling” rivalry thrown in.

At this stage in his life, Wally is a player, surrounding himself with chew toys and bones. Huey has always been a one-toy dog; his special choice is a plastic newspaper known as The New Bark Times. It’s sacred to him, but Wally shows it no respect. As soon as Huey picks the “paper” up, Wally drops all else and jumps in after it. This is naturally followed by ten minutes of barking, growling and tearing around the house. Huey then lies down for a nap and Wally drops the paper and walks away. Ridiculous dog.

And then there’s Wally’s idea that he should be first up the stairs, first in the car, first in my lap. He butts right in if anyone is petting Huey. Interestingly, though, Wally defers to Huey when it comes to which of them gets treats first. He probably thinks he won’t get any himself if he doesn’t. He’s right. Ridiculous dog.

Huey’s last couple of years have been a bit rough. First he lost his wonderful “big brother” Murray, a 14-year-old cockapoo. Next he gained a temporary new companion in Griffin, a spaniel who turned out to be problematic and incompatible. Finally, Wally showed up. Huey’s doing well now and actually, for the most part, enjoys Wally’s company. But I wish I could remind him of what his own puppy days were like – goodness knows I have to regularly remind myself. After a meal of furniture legs and toss cushions, Huey would dart up and down the stairs, chasing after Murray in an attempt to let him know which dog was number one. I’m sure Murray thought Huey was ridiculous at the time.

Huey is perfect now. And maybe, just maybe, Wally will be too, one day!

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

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