V13I6 (Dec/Jan 2011-12)

Animal wellness

december 2011/January 2012

Animalwellness For a long, healthy life!

animal Wellness Magazine

feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

Lend me your

EARS

Cauliflower ear isn’t just a boxer’s affliction

COLD

IT’S OUTSIDE! Top tips for keeping outdoor

CAT

CHAT

cats safe during the winter

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 6

December/January Display until Jan. 24, 2012

SOMETHING ABOUT MERRY

Sharing Reiki energy with a special shelter cat

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Daily interactive play keeps felines fit

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Contents December 2011/January 2012

features 18 Pay it forward!

Your furry friend gifts you with his devotion and companionship all year round. Why not make a resolution this New Year to pass on some of that love to animals in need?

22 How sweet it is Think outside the sugar jar when fixing holiday treats for your best friend.

28 Top 8 steps to happy holidays

Wondering what to get your dog this festive season? Including him in the celebrations, while ensuring he doesn’t get stressed out, is one of the best gifts you can give him.

37 Puppy love

Puppies are a lot of fun, but ensuring they grow into healthy, well-adjusted dogs requires a well-rounded approach. These six steps will get your new friend on the road to a long and happy life.

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41 A healthy alternative

This eco-friendly online pet store focuses on natural and organic products for dogs and cats.

42 Room and board

Going away for the holidays? Check out these seven suggestions for choosing the best boarding kennel for your dog.

48 Tough love

Meet Esoteric, a Boston-based rapper with a soft spot for dogs.

51 Because you love them

Would your animals be cared for if something happened to you? This service helps ensure they will.

56 Pick a policy

Buying health insurance for your dog is a smart move, but how do you decide which plan is best? Here are eight questions to ask before making a purchase.

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60 Healing from the desert

It’s still relatively new to North Americans, but camel’s milk is a highly nutritious food that’s showing promise as a healing therapy for dogs.

68 It’s cold outside!

Does your cat spend time outdoors during the winter? Here are ten tips for keeping him safe when the weather is frightful.

70 Lend me your ears

Cauliflower ear isn’t just a boxer’s affliction. It can also appear in cats, though for different reasons.

72 Something about Merry

Sharing time and Reiki energy with a special shelter cat left a lasting impression on this animal communicator.

74 It’s playtime!

Daily interactive play is a great way to help keep your feline fit, svelte and content.

80 Try Tui Na

This powerful form of bodywork has its roots in ancient China. It’s a simple but effective way to alleviate a wide range of health issues.

86 A passion for pugs

This unique rescue group keeps curly tails wagging, while aiming to change the way people look at animals.

89 Anxiety busters Stress and tension can be as much an issue for dogs as for humans. Forget the canine Prozac – here are some gentle and natural ways to calm your canine’s fears.

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Columns 14 Yakkity yak 46 Warm & fuzzy

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65 Cat chat 83 Communication

Departments

94 Passages

8 Editorial

96 Book reviews

12 Mail bag

105 Tail end

52 Animal Wellness resource guide

58 Product picks

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77 Feline Wellness marketplace 78 The scoop 98 Animal Wellness marketplace

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102 Classifieds 104 Events calendar

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

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Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: James Goodliff Cover Photography: Joyce Marrero Tail End Illustration: Leanne Rosborough Columnists & Contributing Writers Lauren Carter Jill Coody Smits Janet Dobbs Audi Donamor Sara Jackson Lynn McKenzie Sharon Mattos Brenda Mortimer Sandra Murphy Barbara Nefer Jeffrey Ober Lorena O’Connor Bee Persson Sharon Pflaumer Amy Snow Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis

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disease prevention natural diets and nutrition natural health care

Volume 13 Issue 6

9am– 5pm E.S.T.

www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

On the cover

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, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122

Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Lesia Wright Operations Director: John Allan IT Manager: Rick McMaster Administrative Assistant: Libby Sinden Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 202-160 Charlotte St. Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8.

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: info@redstonemediagroup.com.

photograph by:

Joyce Marrero

Winter can be lots of fun for dogs, as long as you take their comfort into consideration.

Snuggled up in a cozy jacket, this little fellow is clearly ready for a game of fetch in the snow. While all dogs can benefit from warm apparel, many small breeds, like this one, can be especially sensitive to the cold.

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

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CDN Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 202-160 Charlotte St.Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8.

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.

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: October 2011.

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

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editorial

Memories Making

W

hen I was little, we often celebrated Christmas at my grandparents’ house, located in a city about 1-1/2 hours away. They were all wonderful gatherings but I remember one year in particular. On that Christmas morning, after everyone had opened their gifts, my parents brought out one last box and carefully set it in front of my grandmother. She pulled off the lid and out popped a miniature black poodle puppy. I know my eyes were as big as saucers for two reasons: one, I adored dogs but hadn’t been able to have one because of severe allergies and asthma, and two, I was stunned that my parents had managed to smuggle a puppy in the car under my very nose.

While I don’t advocate giving animals as gifts, in this case my grandparents were delighted. They named the puppy Cheri (“because she’s a French poodle,” explained Nan). As Cheri grew, she was their constant companion, accompanying my grandfather (Pop) on long daily walks and eagerly learning new tricks from my grandmother that they would perform at family functions. I believe her life extended my grandfather’s by several years.

When she passed away, Pop died not long after from a massive coronary (heart disease had forced him into early retirement, but had not been an issue while Cheri lived).

When I watch my little rescued black Shih Poo, who is more “Poo” than “Shih”, zipping around the yard, I can’t help but see Cheri and remember all the good she did in her relatively short lifetime. These memories remind me

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to appreciate the companions who are part of our family today. And to redouble our efforts to ensure they’re happy and well cared for.

In this, our holiday issue of Animal Wellness, we’ll give you lots of ideas on how to do just that. In fact, you’ll find our pages crammed with 47 tips, suggestions and steps for better health and happiness. And of course, there’s also our Gift Guide, which features a variety of unique holiday gift ideas for your companions.

I know how busy life gets, but this season try to take a few moments to live in the moment with your critters. See life through their eyes and feel how much they love you, regardless of what you’re wearing or how stressed out you are – it’s one of the best presents you’ll give yourself.

Wishing you a joyful holiday,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

The Star in the SunDancer “Curcumin”

Solid Gold’s new dry dog food, SunDancer, continues to be our outstanding new product which contains curcumin. Curcumin comes from the root of the turmeric plant which comes from India. Curcumin has a 4,000 year old history of addressing a variety of health problems-internally and externally. You have tasted curcumin in mustard. It gives it the yellow color and spicy flavor. It’s also put in bath water for skin irritations.

Dr.. Roberta Lee, who is an expert on curcumin, talks about the praises from the World Health Organization, studying the longest living people on earth. These people live in Okinawa, near Japan. Curcumin is their daily spice, they chew the leaves like gum. The National Library of Medicine cites 1,491 studies on curcumin as of Jan. 2006, for its potential healing powers that include a variety of problems (prostate cancer, reduction of tumors, clearing malaria viruses, lowering cholesterol, Alzheimer’s, etc). Dr. Lee is a graduate of the Integrate Medicine Fellowship Program at the Andrew Weil, M.D., University Of Arizona School Of Medicine.

Now, you know why Solid Gold includes curcumin in its new dry dog food. SunDancer is available in 4 lb.., 15 lb. and 33 lb. hermetically sealed vacuum-packed bags. We do not recommend emptying out the contents into another container. The act of pouring exposes the food to air. Open the bag take out what you need and close it using a bag clip or clothes pins. The bags are 93% sealed after that. During shipping, the bags on the top jiggle and press down on the top of the stack. The one way valve lets the air escape out and helps to keep the food fresh longer. The contents are good for a year in the vacuumed environment. We do not use animal/chicken fat which can go rancid. We do not use chemical preservatives and SunDancer contains NO GRAINS OR GLUTEN. In 1958, the US Congress was so impressed by the healing properties of curcumin for cancer that they wanted to fund a study. The pharmaceutical companies objected and lobbied against it. They said it would cut into the revenue of their cancer drugs. One company said that if the curcumin were that effective, they would synthesize it and make it into a prescription drug. All research on cancer and curcumin was stopped.

In 1971, President Nixon tried to bring back the curcumin/cancer research. But Watergate stopped that.

The owner of Solid Gold has been raising Great Danes for 50 years.

She has a black Dane mix that is 17 years old. The dog’s muzzle was completely gray. However, after six months on SunDancer, all the grey went away and the black hairs came back.

Other incidental improvements cleared up - tear stains, ear infections, chewing at the feet and bladder stones. Dogs with epilepsy and diabetes also improved. Some dog foods reduced their big bags to 28 lb., Solid Gold is still a full 33 lb. bag.

Solid Gold Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020

Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue.

If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619)258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at sarah@solidgoldholisitc.com, you can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com. animal wellness

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contributors

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1. Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are authors of The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide To Canine Acupressure and Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure. Their company Tallgrass Publishing offers Meridian Charts for dogs, cats and horses.

Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute (animalacupressure.com) provides training courses and a certificate program worldwide. Turn to page 80 for Amy and Nancy’s expertise on a healing modality called Tui Na. 2. Bee Persson writes from her home outside Raleigh, North Carolina.

After managing a household with three young children, she finds time to read and write about alternative health issues. In this issue (page 87), she writes about the potential of camel’s milk for the treatment of various canine disorders.

3. Lynn McKenzie is an Animal Intuitive and publisher of The Divine Mission of Animals newsletter. She

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helps others attune and awaken to the teachings and wonder that all sentient beings wish to share.

Lynn offers nationally available teleclass training on healing and communicating with animals, and a self-study audio program on crystal healing for animals (AnimalEnergy. com). See page 83 for her article on how a golden retriever named Jiggs changed her life.

4. Janet Dobbs teaches Animal Reiki and Animal Communication. She has worked with thousands of animals and their humans throughout the world, and with veterinarians at their request.

She teaches for animal organizations and rescues and offers workshops, teleclasses and private mentoring. Her goal is to deepen the connection and relationship between animals and the humans who love them. On page 72, Janet writes about how Reiki helped a shelter cat named Merry.

5. Barbara Nefer is an animal lover and freelance writer living in

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Celebration, Florida. She shares her life with three cats, two horses, and a Quaker parrot. Turn to page 86 for Barbara’s profile of Curly Tail Pug Rescue.

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). Check out her article on puppy health on page 37, and her advice on interactive play for cats (page74).

7. Lauren Carter is a freelance writer (lauren-carter.net) whose work has appeared in local, regional and national publications including the Boston Herald, Sun Chronicle, Bay State Banner and the anthology America Now: Short Readings from Recent Periodicals, a writing

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textbook for college freshmen. She lives outside Boston, Massachusetts with her furry feline BFF, Baby. Turn to page 48 for Lauren’s profile of Esoteric, an animal-loving rapper.

8. Jeffrey Ober is a freelance writer, professional photographer and computer programmer who lives with his family in Juneau, Alaska. On page 70, Jeff writes about a common

condition in cats called cauliflower ear.

9. Audi Donamor has been creating special needs diets for cats and dogs for many years. Following the loss of her beloved golden retriever, Blues, she founded The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund through the University of Guelph’s Pet Trust. She is the only two-time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril

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Kennel Trophy for the Human/Animal Bond. In this issue (page 22), she focuses on healthy, natural sweeteners you can share with your dog.

Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she’s not writing, she works as a pet sitter. For this edition, Sandra writes about how to choose the right boarding kennel for your dog (page 42).

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It’s easy to see red when people don’t pick up after their pooches, leave them outside to bark all night, or don’t give them enough attention or care. Here’s how to deal with the other kind of animal lover.

mail bag Your article on knowing what to do in the case of an emergency (Oct/ Nov) gave me some comfort. We live in a small town, and recently, one of my elderly cats fell seriously ill late at night. I phoned our local vet’s emergency number, only to discover, to my dismay, that they no longer offer after-hours emergency service and that I would have to drive 35 miles to a larger city for emergency care for my cat. So, at 11PM, I had to drive my sick, elderly cat, who was terrified of cars and strangers, to a distant clinic. At it turned out, my cat had to be euthanized. I still feel guilty that I had to subject him to the stress and trauma of a long car ride late at night during the last hour of his life.

I do realize that vet clinics have to cut back to save expenses, like everyone else these days, but some emergencies can’t wait the length of time it takes to transport a sick animal to a distant clinic. The time it takes to drive a long distance to get care could mean the difference between life and death for these animals.

BY CAITLIN CRAWSHAW

the end of our dog walk, Truman rounded the If she was surprised my confrontation, it didn’tall show.

Finally – an animal magazine thatand Iacknowledges the byfact that not Atcorner and spotted someone lingering outside our With minimal argument, she pulled a plastic bag out of It wasresponsible! a blustery evening and it took me a moment to to her pocket andCrawshaw’s stomped over to pick up article the waste. She animal ownershouse. are I refer Caitlin spot the small white dog squatting in my front yard. muttered something and walked away, tiny dog in tow.

Still seeing red, I called after her, “Keep your dog off “That’s so irresponsible!” in your Oct/Nov issue.

Once it registered, I stormed up the sidewalk to the my lawn!” Truman growled the entire time. perpetrator. “Excuse me! Is your dog going to the bathroom on my lawn?”

Try to cool it

hindsight, it was a silly over-reaction on my part – For years, we have lived next to a person whoInandinsists on leaving her dog definitely counter-productive. While it’s easy, and The older woman stiffened, but didn’t remove her dog from my understandable, to react emotionally when people are property. “Oh, this is your house?” she asked nonchalantly. out in the yard almost 24/7, summer and winter.

My wife and Iif their have irresponsible with their dogs – especially actions With zero restraint, I lit into her. “It doesn’t matter are likely to cause the animal discomfort or harm – it’s only often been disturbed byis,” Iendless barking to the pointin thewhere wenotes whose lawn it hissed. “It’s rude to let your dogat do night, likely to trigger defensiveness guilty party, her business on someone else’s property. Especially a Sherri Romig, owner of Tails of Success, a dog-training away from a park, for heaven’s York.wondering That’s why she takes have to shut theblockwindows and wearsake!” earplugs, facility andinI Rochester, can’t New help 46 how the lack of human contact is affecting the dog emotionally. animal wellness

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Given the current economy, I don’t see things changing any time soon with regards to services, so your article on emergency care tactics you can implement right away at home is very timely and helpful, and could save lives. Thank you!

We have never known what to do about it, as this person is easily offended, but the tips in your article have given us a way to get our foot in the door. Thanks for the article, and for recognizing that some people who have pets just shouldn’t really have them.

Lucy Evans, via email

Sheldon McDowell, via email

Editor’s note: Emergencies can happen to an animal of any age

Editor’s note: Unfortunately, irresponsibility when it comes to animal

at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays, when regular services aren’t available. So knowing what to do at home in the case of emergency is crucial, so you can stabilize the animal while making arrangements to transport him to a vet.

guardianship is still a major issue, as anyone who runs a shelter or rescue will be able to attest. As the author indicates in the article, education is often the key. Many people, for one reason or another, simply don’t realize or believe that animals have feelings.

Thanks for a great magazine. Wonderful to see the article by Dr. Hofve for cats (“Raw feeding your cat”, Oct/Nov 11). While I do not own a cat I find that dog owners often have cats and seek my help. I hope that Dr. Hofve will be asked to provide more info about raw diets, how to make them and how to switch a cat to the new food.

In “Harnessing a Happy Dog” in the same issue, I was disturbed by the comment about “nose leads”. I presume the author means what is general known as head halters. I am very sorry that her dog suffered from the use of one, but I really dislike condemning them because of her experience.

My guess is that she probably did not use the head halter properly. They are a very useful tool in many, many cases. I do like harnesses, recommend them often, but my personal experience is that they have not served all my clients well.

Charlotte Peltz, via email

Editor’s note: We forwarded your comments on nose leads to the article’s author, Alecia Evans: “Animal chiropractors and acupuncturists have noticed increased cervical vertebral displacement with clients who use head collars. While no formal study has been conducted, the consensus is that they are not so safe in the wrong hands. While I absolutely respect your experience in using them, I have seen nine out of ten dogs walked on them in an improper fashion -- and they do not release pressure as they are supposed to, leaving the dog in a physiologically compromised position.”

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8/23/11 12:41:10 PM

Evans, author of the article “Harnessing a happy dog”. Alecia has been a professional dog trainer for over a decade and is the inventor of The Walk In Sync Humane Dog Walking and Training System. (dogwalkinsync.com) Our apologies for the oversight.

Editor’s

note:

We were saddened to hear of the sudden death of Steve Forman, the founder of ZAPP, a rescue organization in Mexico that we profiled in our Aug/Sept 2011 issue.

Steve passed away from heart failure in July. A new organization called Volunteers for Indigent and Vulnerable Animals (myvivasf.com) has been formed to continue his work. Monetary donations may now be sent to San Felipe Bay Animal Rescue, c/o Marcia Bandera, President, PMB 395 PO Box 9019, Calexico, CA 92232. Shoe donations for ZAPP’s eBay store will no longer be accepted.

From our

ANIMAL WELLNESS

Editor’s note: In our Oct/Nov 2011 issue, we omitted a bio for Alecia

I am from Romania and sorry that the magazine is not available here. I think it’s gorgeous! I am an animal lover. – Bianca Cristiana

Editor’s note: Animal Wellness is available in a digital format to make it easier and more cost effective for international subscribers -- you can subscribe by visiting animalwellnessmagazine.com/m/ A “guilty looking” dog is responding not to something they’ve done wrong, but to the presence of a stressful social stimulus -- such as a scolding. Dogs that look guilty as soon as a person comes home have learned, through past scoldings, to associate “person coming home” and “mess on the floor” with “social threat I need to deflect”. – Ann Dupuis

We’re excited to introduce our new Facebook

It’s your chance to get FREE stuff for your animal buddy. Go to our Animal Wellness Magazine Facebook page for more information. And don’t forget to tell your friends!

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yakkity yak Busting the myths When it comes to dogs, myths abound – including misinformation about their care, behavior and intelligence. To separate fact from fiction, the American Kennel Club sets the record straight on some of the most well-known dog myths.

• “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Not true. You can teach an adult dog by keeping training sessions short and fun and by using plenty of positive reinforcement including praise and treats.

Jim and Sarge see eye to eye.

Paws and stripes Recognizing the need for service dogs among veterans of the US military, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) recently announced Paws and Stripes as its official charity. Paws and Stripes was founded by Lindsey Stanek, whose husband Jim was sent home from Iraq for injuries he received on deployment. After nine months in treatment, Jim discovered that therapy dogs gave him a tremendous amount of comfort and relief. Paws and Stripes works to provide service dogs for US veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Traumatic Brain Injury.

The service dogs are obtained exclusively from shelters and trained by professionals at no cost to the veteran.

Through the partnership, NAPPS members will have the opportunity to designate a portion of their membership dues to Paws and Stripes, participate in several fundraising activities throughout the year, and foster greater public awareness of the vital importance of service dogs for veterans. pawsandstripes.org or petsitters.org

Use healthy leftovers to make treats for your dog – for example, steamed baby carrots wrapped in a slice of lean roast beef.

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• “Dogs are sick when their noses are warm.” The temperature of the nose does not indicate health or illness. The only way to tell your dog’s temperature is with a thermometer.

• “A dog’s wagging tail means he’s happy.” A natural, midlevel wag indicates happiness, but a high, stiff wag means the dog is agitated and ready to protect something, and a low quick wag means the dog is scared and submissive.

• “Dogs can learn only 250 words.” The smartest and best trained dogs are similar to a two-year-old child in their ability to learn and recognize words. The border collie is one breed that can learn many different words.

Fly the friendly skies Transporting an animal by air isn’t always easy, and can sometimes end in tragedy if you don’t pick an airline that gives dogs and cats a high priority. To help ensure a safe trip, Petfinder.com has released its 2011 list of the most animalfriendly airlines in North America.

1. Pet Airways – most animal-friendly overall, and best airline for large dogs 2. JetBlue – best amenities for animals 3. Frontier Airlines – best for transporting a variety of animals and for flying multiple animals in cabin 4. WestJet – best for budget-conscious consumers (small dogs and cats can travel in-cabin for $50)

Watch his weight!

A new research study conducted by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) found that obesity and lack of exercise are major concerns among companion animals, and that the choices people are making could be affecting the length and quality of their animals’ lives.

The study found that 18% of animal guardians don’t feed their companion(s) the amount recommended on pet food packages, and only 17% closely review ingredient information on food labels. And on an average weekday, animal guardians spend nearly twice as much time surfing the Internet and three times as much time watching TV as they do playing with/exercising their animals.

The study also noted that veterinarians say weight control and management is the number one thing you can do to increase the length of your animal’s life. animal wellness

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yakkity yak Students saving lives

The college’s international campaign was developed to improve shelter dog rehabilitation and adoption. All dog training students are asked to volunteer a minimum of ten hours to a local shelter, Humane Society or rescue organization to help socialize and train dogs. Since 2004, over 6,075 students have participated in the program.

“Students Saving Lives is the single most rewarding project that I have ever set in motion throughout my entire career in the animal industry,” says Debbie Kendrick, Vice President of ABC. “I have witnessed first hand the countless happy ‘tail-wagging’ endings our students have made possible, and am proud to be associated with such a dedicated group of individuals who donate their own time and newly acquired dog training skills to help shelter dogs find forever homes.”

AnimalBehaviorCollege.com

Image courtesy of ARQ Architects.

A well trained shelter dog has a much better chance at being adopted than one that displays unwanted behaviors.

Dog training students at Animal Behavior College (ABC) have volunteered over 67,650 hours to help save the lives of shelter dogs throughout the United States and Canada, celebrating the seventh year of the school’s Students Saving Lives program.

An artist’s rendering of the new shelter.

Green shelter prototype The North Country SPCA in Westport, New York plans to soon break ground on a brand new environmentally friendly no-kill shelter in Elizabethtown. The organization has already raised more than $1.25 million for the new facility, with a target construction goal of $1.5 million. The new shelter has been designed by ARQ Architects, a small firm that has revolutionized the field of animal care with major shelters in San Francisco and New York. It will serve as a prototype for smaller shelters nationwide and will include LEED certification, something only a handful of shelters throughout the country have been granted. Donations to help fund the new shelter can be made at ncspca.org.

Facts about fructose Dogs like sweets as much as we do, but sugar and artificial sweeteners like Aspartame can be harmful. It may be time to add fructose to that list, at least in large quantities. Also called fruit sugar, fructose occurs naturally in fruit but is mostly found in the refined sugars and high-fructose corn syrup used to make breakfast cereals, pastries, soda and fruit drinks, and other sweet foods.

Too much fructose in the diet may be contributing to liver and heart disease in humans, reports the September 2011 issue of the Harvard Heart Letter. Liver cells are the only ones in the body that metabolize fructose. Fat is a key by-product of the breakdown of fructose. Give the liver enough fructose, and tiny fat droplets begin to accumulate in the organ. This buildup is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and over the long term may cause serious liver damage.

ABC students volunteer their time to help train and socialize shelter dogs.

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If too much fructose is bad for you, it follows that it’s not good for your dog either. It doesn’t mean that either of you should give up fruit, but it is a good reason to avoid sugary foods and drinks. health.harvard.edu

Close to a breakthrough?

Across the world, research is underway at more than a dozen institutions to develop a non-surgical sterilant for dogs and cats – an innovative experiment in solving the problem of animal overpopulation and a chance for scientists to cash in on a $25 million prize.

In 2008, Found Animals Foundation announced the launch of the Michelson Prize & Grants. Since then, the organization has received more than 150 letters of intent and has invited over 50 investigators to submit full grant proposals. To date, 15 of those grants have been approved, totaling more than $6 million in research funding.

Research is currently underway from Australia and Argentina to California and Virginia.

“We are thrilled with the high level of interest we’ve seen from qualified applicants to date,” says Aimee Gilbreath, Executive Director of Found Animals. “What’s even more exciting is that we’re seeing proposals based on new technologies such as nanocontainers and gene silencing, meaning that researchers are applying cutting edge science to this problem.” michelson.foundanimals.org

Berries from many favorite holiday plants such as holly, mistletoe and hemlock are toxic – don’t let your animals eat them.

Fundraising fun A casting director from Animal Planet’s popular reality show It’s Me or the Dog, starring Victoria Stillwell, was in Bridgehampton, New York on July 30 to do a casting call for potential canine stars for the program. The venue was the “Apres Beach” fundraiser in support of Unleashed, a program that helps transform the lives of at-risk middle school girls by involving them in all aspects of puppy rescue. The event attracted dozens of people and their dogs and also featured a range of experts, including a dog chef and a veterinarian, hors d’oeurves for both people and canines, and even a swimming pool for dogs, complete with lifeguard. unleashedny.org Stacey Radin (left), the founder of Unleashed, attends the “Apres Beach” fundraiser with both human and canine friends.

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Pay it

forward!

BY CHARLOTTE WALKER ¬

Your furry friend gifts you with his devotion and companionship all year round. Why not make a resolution this New Year to pass on some of that love to animals in need?

N

early everyone makes New Year’s resolutions of one kind or another, although few of us follow through, at least for very long, before we lose momentum and slip back into old habits. But there’s one resolution that’s worth working a little harder at – doing something to help needy and homeless dogs and cats.

It’s one way you can pay your own companion back for always being there for you with his love, patience, unwavering dedication and friendship.

Supporting a shelter, rescue or sanctuary is a great way to do this, but it’s important to make sure you select a reputable organization that cares properly for the animals in its charge. While there are thousands of wonderful individuals and groups out there who do everything in their power to help animals, there are unfortunately also some who take advantage of people’s compassion for animals and use it for their own personal gain. Be sure to do your research before deciding which organization/s you want to give your time or money to.

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Who should you choose?

“My preference is for local, volunteer-run no-kill shelters,” says Gwen Cooper, who spent five years working in nonprofit administration, fund-raising and marketing, and also authored Homer’s Odyssey, a book about a blind rescue cat she adopted. “A volunteer staff by definition doesn’t require salaries, which means every penny you donate is going directly into service for the animals. Plus, when you donate on the local level, you can see your money put to good use in your own community. You can attach individual names and faces – your friends and neighbors – to the people you’re supporting in their efforts on behalf of animals in need.”

Of course, there are also many larger national organizations that do fantastic work. “Right after 9/11, when my cats were trapped in my apartment five blocks from Ground Zero, the ASPCA and the relief effort they coordinated were instrumental in enabling me to rescue my cats three days later,” says Gwen. “Local shelters are great

on the day-to-day level, but when you’re talking about large-scale disasters, national groups are a godsend. They also have a great track record of supporting local shelters through grants and donations.”

4 ways you can help 1 • Monetary donations This is the least time-consuming way to support a shelter or rescue. It’s ideal for those who are pressed for time, but have some extra income to spare.

“Shelters all need money for supplies and medication,” says Gwen. “These days, my schedule is much more demanding, but I donate 10% of my earnings from Homer’s Odyssey to rescue organizations.” How you decide to donate is up to you and the options the organization offers. You can give a single sizable gift once a year, or set up to have small amounts automatically removed from your bank account once a month.

2 • Supplies Another way to give is to donate supplies such as quality pet food and treats, cat litter, toys, bedding, shampoos and brushes, or even office and cleaning supplies. If you have the time and are feeling more ambitious, you might organize a drive to collect gently used blankets or towels. If you’re throwing a birthday party, ask guests to bring pet food donations for the shelter rather than gifts for you.

3 • Time If you can’t afford to donate money or supplies, it doesn’t mean you can’t help. Far from it, in fact! “At various times in my life, I was short on money but had enough control over my work schedule to volunteer a certain number of hours every week,” says Gwen. Most shelters gladly welcome volunteers to come in and help clean cages and litter boxes, walk or groom dogs, spend quality time with the cats or feed and water the animals.

4 • Services Take a look at any particular skills you might be able to offer the organization.

Are you good at office work, writing, organizing, fund-raising, carpentry or decorating? Most shelters and rescues are glad to have volunteers help them with paperwork, fund-raising events, repairs or painting jobs around the facility, or even the building and maintenance of dog runs and cat enclosures.

Some might appreciate assistance doing up a newsletter or composing letters.

If you do any form of healing work, you might offer to go in once a week to give animals Reiki, acupressure or TTouch. “There are many ways to get involved,” says Gwen. “For example, if you’re a web designer you could assist your local shelter in putting together a website featuring adoptable pets and a ‘Donate’ button.”

“Having been on both sides of the equation, I can say categorically that shelters are always grateful for support of any kind.” animal wellness

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Going further Maybe you’re thinking of getting even more involved and doing something such as fostering dogs or caring for a feral cat colony. Just be sure to think carefully before you take this step. It’s a big responsibility and entails a significant investment in time, funds and both physical and emotional energy.

“The other important thing to understand is that you’re not in it to change the world. I’ve seen volunteers burn out when they realize they can’t save all the animals. You’ll never save them all. The volunteers who understand that each individual animal saved is its own miracle are the ones who last the longest and do the most good.”

“Fostering is an incredibly generous thing to do,” says Gwen. “But before you commit to it, you should ask yourself how realistic it is for you to bring another dog into your home. Do you have the time and resources to care for him, and will you be able to part with that dog when he’s ready to go to his ‘forever’ home?

Another way to go that extra mile is to do what you can to help strengthen animal welfare legislation. “I think it’s always a good idea to educate yourself as to where your specific representatives and senators stand on the issues that matter most to you,” says Gwen. “If one of those issues is animal welfare, make it your business to find out. Email them and use your Facebook and Twitter accounts to inform others if you don’t approve of their animal welfare voting record.”

Last but not least, always adopt your dogs or cats rather than buying them from breeders or pet stores, and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Shelter and rescue animals often make the best companions, and by adopting, you’re easing the burden on these organizations by one more animal.

Whatever you decide to do to help, rest assured your efforts will have a ripple effect that will make the New Year a happier one for animals in need!

Most shelters gladly welcome volunteers to come in and help clean cages and litter boxes, walk or groom dogs, spend quality time with the cats or feed and water the animals.

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How sweet it is

BY AUDI DONAMOR

Think outside the sugar jar when fixing holiday treats for your best friend.

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T

hese days, there’s a lot of press about dogs eating a whole foods diet. But what about when we want to give them a sweet treat? Sugar isn’t any better for dogs than it is for us, and artificial sweeteners are just that – artificial. Some, such as Xylitol, are actually toxic to dogs.

In this article, we look at six “whole” sweeteners that not only taste good, but pack a powerful nutritional punch too. They give sweet treats a whole new meaning!

1

Honey

For centuries, honey has been used as both a food and a medicine. The ancient Greeks developed the original “energy bar” by combining 1 cup of honey with 1 cup of toasted sesame seeds and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This is a very easy treat to make for the holidays, and you can share it with the whole family – add sun dried unsulphured cranberries for a seasonal twist.

The color and flavor of honey varies widely, depending on the bees’ nectar source. The darker the color, the deeper the flavor. Darker honeys, like buckwheat (no relation to wheat), sage and tupelo, contain the most antioxidants.

There is ample evidence that honey, especially New Zealand’s Manuka honey, may be effective against Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which causes stomach ulcers.

If a recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, use 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup honey (to taste) instead.

2

Maple syrup

You may be surprised to learn that maple syrup is considered one of the world’s healthiest foods. This tasty syrup comes from the sap of sugar, black or red maple trees, though more exotic syrups, like birch, are also now available.

Maple syrup contains fewer calories than honey and an even higher animal wellness

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concentration of minerals. It offers “sweet support for your immune system”. Maple syrup is an excellent source of manganese and a good source of zinc. Manganese is an essential co-factor in a number of enzymes critical to energy production and antioxidant defenses. Even superoxide dismutase requires manganese. Zinc and manganese work together to support the immune system, lessening inflammation and acting as an immuno-stimulant.

Try the darker amber syrups for a rich taste that’s packed with nutrients. A little goes a long way.

3

Black strap molasses

Here’s another natural sweetener that’s considered one of the world’s healthiest foods. It was the most popular sweetener until the late 19th century, since it was much more affordable than refined sugar.

Molasses is made from the third boiling of sugar syrup, which is the concentrated by-product left over after sugar’s sucrose has been crystallized. Molasses is quite a powerhouse of nutrients, containing manganese, copper, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6 (pryidoxine), selenium and iron.

Choose organic unsulphured black strap molasses. Store it in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator or cool dry place. Unopened containers keep for about a year, while open containers keep for about six months.

4

Brown rice syrup

This nutritive sweetener is about half as sweet as sugar. It is made by fermenting whole brown rice with special enzymes that break down the natural starch content. Brown rice syrup is gluten free and has a low value on the glycemic index, partly because it’s a complex sugar polysaccharide. This unique structure allows the syrup to be absorbed and broken down more slowly than simple sugars, avoiding rapid spikes in blood glucose levels.

Brown rice syrup is a good source of minerals, including magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese and B vitamins.

It is also rich in protein concentrates.

Brown rice syrup can be used in place of regular sugar.

Use 1¼ cups for every cup of sugar, and use 1/4 cup less liquid than the recipe calls for.

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5

Pure coconut sap/syrup

The coconut tree is often referred to as the “tree of life” because it provides fruit throughout the year that can be consumed at any stage of maturity. In Sanskrit, coconut is called “kalpa vriksha”, which means “the tree which fulfills all the necessities of life”.

Coconut sap/syrup is nutrient dense, containing 17 amino acids, B vitamins, including inositol, vitamin C, potassium and even FOS, a prebiotic that promotes a healthy digestive tract. Coconut syrup is referred to as the maple syrup of the Tropics.

6

“Green” stevia

It may be hard to believe, but stevia has been around since pre-Columbian times, and was not discovered by Europeans until the early 20th century. These days, a new stevia-based product seems to hit grocery and health food store shelves every day. It’s the most widely used sweetener in Japan.

Also known as sweetleaf and sugarleaf, stevia is actually a member of the sunflower family. It’s said to be 300 times sweeter than regular sugar, but because of its chemical makeup, it does not have an impact on insulin levels.

When it comes to stevia, go for the “green”, which contains a host of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, magnesium and zinc. White powdered stevia products have been chemically processed and do not have the nutrient value that green leaf stevia powder contains.

{recipes} Maple syrup and cranberry pinch pots Ingredients • 4 cups whole flour (e.g. whole oat flour) • 1/2 cup oatmeal • 1 whole egg • 1/4 cup maple syrup or other syrup or honey of your choice – e.g. brown rice syrup or pure coconut sap • 1 cup filtered water • 2 teaspoons baking powder (e.g. a certified organic, ricebased, gluten and aluminum-free product) • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or powder • 1/2 cup sun dried, unsulphured cranberries • Cinnamon or dehydrated maple syrup

paper for easy cleanup.

Instructions Choose organic ingredients whenever possible. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Cover a large cookie sheet with parchment

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. The dough should pull away from the sides. Scoop up some dough and knead it gently.

Maple syrup and cranberry pinch pots make great gifts.

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Roll out the dough, cut it into holiday shapes and decorate with cranberries and cinnamon. Or, make pinch pots by taking small balls of dough and rolling them out. Tear off pieces to make pinch pots any size you want; form little balls and “pinch” the centre, or stick your thumb in the middle to make an indentation. Fill the indentation with 1 or 2 cranberries. For a final touch, sprinkle with a little freshly grated cinnamon or dehydrated maple sugar.

Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.

Remove from oven and cool completely before serving and storing.

These treats are perfect for gift giving!

a pinch of cinnamon; you can also add a pinch of carob powder for an extra flavor boost.

Bake, uncovered, for 40 minutes or until apples are tender. Let them cool to room temperature before serving to your dog.

Terrific teff treats Ingredients • 3/4 cup whole brown rice flour • 1/4 cup whole oat or barley flour • 1/4 cup teff whole grains* • 2 tablespoons carob powder • 1/4 cup local honey, brown rice syrup or pure natural coconut sap • 1/2 cup goat milk or filtered water Preheat your oven to 350ºF and cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Combine all ingredients. Make small balls, roll them in oatmeal if you like, place on cookie sheet and pat down gently with a fork.

Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, cool, and store in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

“Gourmuttly”granola apples for a sweet New Year Ingredients • 4 large apples (e.g. Delicious) • 3/4 to 1 cup granola with no added sugar or salt.

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup sun dried unsulphured cranberries • Maple syrup or local honey (you can also use brown rice syrup or coconut syrup) Instructions Preheat oven to 350ºF. Hollow out unpeeled apples. I like to cut a small edge off the bottom, so the apples sit evenly in the baking dish.

Firmly pack apples with granola and cranberries. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey (1 teaspoon per apple). Place apples in a shallow ungreased baking dish. Sprinkle with

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*Teff is an African cereal grass that has been used in Ethiopia for thousands of years. It contains more calcium than whole oats, and more iron than whole barley. It can be found in health food stores.

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8 steps to happy holidays Top

Wondering what to get your dog this festive season? Making him a part of the festivities, while ensuring he doesn’t get stressed out, is one of the best gifts you can give him.

by Ann Brightman

I

t may be “the most wonderful time of the year”, but it’s also the busiest. The endless round of shopping, decorating, cooking and entertaining can take its toll on even the most diehard holiday lovers, leaving them stressed and exhausted. All this extra busyness mean our dogs might not get as much attention as they’re used to,

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and that leaves them feeling stressed too, not to mention distinctly un-festive.

While you probably don’t want to add anything more to your holiday to-do list, it’s important to make sure your canine companion doesn’t feel neglected or excluded this

time of year. Changing his routine, skipping daily walks, shortening his playtime, leaving him alone too much, or shutting him in another part of the house when you’re entertaining can lead to behavioral issues that will only add to your stress levels. Here are some ways you can make your dog part of the celebrations while reducing stress for both of you – and having fun into the bargain!

• Don’t change your dog’s daily routine any more than you have to. Keep to regular mealtimes, and let him out and take him for walks at the same times as always. Before saying you “don’t have time” to walk the dog, consider how much good the outing will do you both. It’s a chance to get some fresh air and exercise, work off stress, and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll feel better for it, be able to return to your holiday preparations refreshed, and your dog will be content and ready for a nap.

way to help keep your dog happy over the holidays. Just be sure to give him things that won’t upset his digestion – vomiting, diarrhea or an emergency vet visit won’t do anything to help either of you feel less stressed. Pieces of

Forget everything you have to do tomorrow, and snuggle together on the sofa in front of the TV or a crackling fire, or put on some soothing music.

• Set aside a block of time every day, perhaps in the evening after everyone else has gone to bed, just to be with your dog and love him. Forget everything you have to do tomorrow, and snuggle together on the sofa in front of the TV or a crackling fire, or put on some soothing music. Dogs are wonderful for helping us de-stress, and simply sitting quietly and petting or brushing your pooch will help you relax and even lower your blood pressure. And he’ll love the attention!

• When you’re going to be busy with guests or out for dinner, give your dog a couple of new toys to help keep him happy and occupied.

Since you won’t be able to supervise him, make absolutely sure the toys are high quality, well made and durable, with no pieces that can be chewed off and swallowed.

• Occasional treats are also a good animal wellness

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When you’re going to be busy with guests or out for dinner, give your dog a couple of new toys to help keep him happy and occupied. lean meat or veggies and fruit (except grapes) are good choices. Avoid cooked bones, fat trimmings, rich gravy, dessert leftovers and chocolate, as well as anything that contains onions or raisins. Remind guests not to give your dog snack foods such as potato chips and candy.

• Before guests arrive, carefully consider your dog’s personality and behavior around other people. Some want to be in the thick of things when the house is full of visitors, while others prefer to be left alone. If your dog is a shrinking violet, and would rather retreat to a quiet room when you have guests, let him do so. Leave the door ajar, so he can come out and be a part of things if he chooses, but inform your guests, especially children, to stay out of that particular room. Forcing a dog to interact when he doesn’t want to will stress him out and may even lead to snapping and biting. Sociable dogs, on the other hand, can become a nuisance to some people if they jump up or try to take food from plates. As much as you love dogs, not everyone else does. Be sure your dog is

well behaved and trained before you allow him to mix with guests. Otherwise, enclose him in an adjoining room with a baby gate, where he can still receive attention and see and hear the action.

• Design some activities or games that your dog can be a part of. If you have space, games of fetch up and down a hallway, or a makeshift agility course in a basement room can be fun for young and active dogs and visiting children. Again, just make sure your dog is the type to enjoy this type of activity and attention, and is okay with kids.

An adult should supervise the proceedings.

• If you’re going to be traveling over the holidays, be sure to make appropriate plans for your dog. Again, these plans will depend a lot on his personality. Some dogs find travel difficult and would rather stay in their own homes with a trusted friend, relative or neighbor to look after them. Be sure this person will be able to spend quality time with the dog every day, playing with and walking him — flying visits just to feed him and let him out in the yard aren’t enough. If you can’t find anyone with time to spare, hire a professional pet sitter for the days you’ll be away. Loneliness can cause stress and destructive behavior, especially in dogs prone to separation anxiety.

If you’re taking your dog with you, make sure ahead of time that the people at your destination (whether it’s a private home or a hotel) are going to be okay with it, and take the usual travel precautions to ensure his comfort and safety – a doggy seat belt or crate, motion sickness remedies, his usual food from home, familiar toys and bedding, adequate ID, etc.

• It’s been said before, but it’s worth mentioning again. Be sure that any holiday decorations you put up around your home won’t cause harm to your dog. Toxic plants and greenery should be kept out of reach (check the floor regularly for dropped needles, berries, cones, etc.), as should breakable ornaments, tinsel, lights and electric cords.

It may take a little extra time and effort to accommodate your dog during the holidays, but considering the love and companionship he gives you all year round, it’s the best way you can give back to him. He’ll appreciate it more than any number of wrapped presents under the tree!

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Holiday Better Buddies Better Buddies Donut Beds are constructed with an eye for well-crafted design alongside an eco- and socially conscious heart. Made from durable, soft, Organic Hemp/Cotton fabric and with 10% of profit donated to the Best Friends Animal Society, these beds make a lasting difference. 15% off, use code: AW15

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Give the Gift of Award Winning Nutrition!

Clear Conscience Pet® is the proud recipient of the Editor’s Choice Award for 2011 from Pet Product News, a leading independent pet care industry authority. The patent pending OSV™ line of treats and chews was chosen for its groundbreaking nutritional innovation. Visit ClearConsciencePet.com for Holiday Gift pack options!

Dr. Rose’s Remedies Dr. Rose’s Remedies skin treatment salve and spray are 100% all natural products. They are anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal.

Dr. Rose’s are made with all human grade ingredients. They can be used for most skin conditions from hot spots in dogs to rain rot and wounds in horses.

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Deserving pets Give them optimum health and vitality for healthier, happier lives.

You won’t believe the difference you see on the outside. They won’t believe the difference they feel on the inside. Deserving pets deserve the best this holiday season. VITAL VITIES, the truly delicious preventive supplement that really works!

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The Organikat Organic2 Catnip Toy Since organic organic = organic squared, there’s not a more organic way to treat a cat. With our organic, dye-free cotton on the outside combined with organic catnip on the inside, it’s the most earth-friendly and healthy toy around. With a retail price of just $6.99, it’s also economical.

www.organikat.com 310-403-9589 sales@organikat.com

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Bonies The unique formula in Bonies allows a healthy chewing experience with a taste that dogs love. Your pet’s chewing needs will be satisfied while Bonies leaves breath smelling fresh and clean. For Christmas, tuck this delicious treat in your dog’s stocking or leave a box under the Christmas tree.

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Sniff Candles For the best-smelling Holiday ever! Sniff Pet Candles make great gifts for all your dog-loving friends. Choose from “Day in the Hamptons”, “Field of Dreams”, “Splendor in the Grass”, “Friends to the Rescue” or for the dog that has the occasional “oops”, “Fart & Away”.

www.sniffpetcandles.com 888.485.0493

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Life’s Abundance We like to reward our beloved pets with a special indulgence. Have you noticed that many of the popular treats on the market are laden with refined sugars, chemical preservatives, and artificial flavors and colors? At Life’s Abundance, we strongly believe that you should only feed treats that can help to support overall health and are highly digestible.

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Earth Heart™ Earth Heart™ designs safe natural remedies that provide relief to over 95% of dogs suffering from stress, travel upsets, insects and environmental irritants. Products are made in the USA, packaged in BPA free containers, family friendly, and can be sprayed on cloth or fur without leaving sticky residues or stains.

Bright & Clean, Naturally Pure Pooch Bright & Clean all natural shampoo + conditioner for dogs with white or light coats will keep your pooch looking his best this season! Natural ingredients include gentle coconut cleansers, plant-based conditioners, and Provitamin B5 for a shiny coat.

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The Miracle Pet Pad to Relax, Relieve and Rejuvenate Your Best Furry Friend . . . Naturally!

Enjoy the giving of the gift that keeps giving: relief from pain, hip dysplasia, inflammation or just the aches of old age (ideal for pets parents too). Visit:

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Scout & Zoe’s Natural Antler Dog Chews Scout & Zoe’s Natural Antler Dog Chews are allergy-free and a green, organic, renewable resource created from 100% naturally shed, premium USA elk antlers. Containing calcium and phosphorous, the chews are not only good for your pup but also help keep those pretty teeth clean and healthy. Great for the exceptional chewer in your pack as well as dogs with allergies.

Available at www.scoutandzoes.com or call 855-DOG-CHEW to place an order.

Kramers Salve for dogs In Ayurveda the neem tree was called the “Sarva Roga Nivarini” (= one that could cure all ailments and ills) and has been used in India for more than 2000 years. Kramer’s Salve brings this treatment to dogs, itchy, hot spot, red irritated skin. This proprietary formula the result of two years personal research is the only treatment that worked for Kramer’s allergic skin symptoms.

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Holiday LOOKING FOR THE IDEAL GIFT FOR A NEW PET PARENT? Keep holiday spirits high with GET SERiOUS!® ODOR, STAiN & PHEROMONE Extractor. The only COMPLETE cleaner removing ALL 3 attractions! Your pet ‘naturally’ STOPS re-soiling, potty-trains quickly, and homes stay CLEAN, pretty and fresh ensuring a joyous season for all! Nontoxic-Biodegradable-You’re Done in “3” minutes! DOG+CAT SERiOUS!® formulas: PetSmart.com, WholeLifePets.com, Jefferspet.com, many local retailers nationwide & Canada!

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Oral Care made easy!

Periodontal disease is the number one disease among pets, yet less than 20% of pet owners routinely brush their pets’ teeth. This new generation of safe, natural products fight periodontal disease without brushing.

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The Gift of Organization This quality organizational tool features pouches, pockets, booklets and more – all designed to help you keep everything in one place and easily accessible, including medical records, photos, extra ID tags, magazine articles, phone numbers for pet sitters, groomers or trainers – anything to do with your dog or cat’s care.

Petkeeper.com

CALMING COLLARS The Holidays can be stressful for you and your pets! Help your dog or cat be calm and relaxed with a Calming Collar. Filled with a blend of herbs, they use aromatherapy to help your pet relax, naturally. Custom made just for your dog or cat. $32

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WOW the Holiday Walls!

From your photos, choose from 40 fun and unique looks printed up to 42” x 42” on paper or canvas, and stretched or custom framed after you approve a proof. Great quality, prices, and service. It’s easy and fun to WOW the walls this holiday season!

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holiday treat packs The Honest Kitchen has produced just 1500 limited edition, all-natural Holiday Treat Packs, which contain hand-baked dog cookies, food and a recipe card for homemade dog treats. Packaged in a stunning, seasonally-themed gift box.

Give to your own special pet, or send to a friend. The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated whole foods and cookies are 100% human-grade and contain no chemicals or by-products.

Thehonestktichen.com, 1-866-437-9729

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LiTterZipper is a waste disposal scoop which transfers waste directly into an attached bag. Uses any bags, but zipper-types work best. Just scoop it, bag it, then toss it in the trash. No mess, no odor.

Great for the beach treasure hunters as well.

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Three innovative Indoor Launcher-compatible toys employ the Chuckit! Bounce Flex Core, a light yet resilient toy center which has a soft and springy feel that recovers to its original shape. A perfect option when it’s too cold, too wet, or you want to hang out inside with your four-legged pal.

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Illuminating the future of animal care

Yummy Travel Bowls by Sleepypod is a modern and convenient threein-one Yummy Travel Bowls by Sleepypod is a modern and convenient three-in-one pet product that allows a pet owner to store, transport, and serve pet food and water simultaneously, without mixing or spillage of the contents. Pre-pack your pet’s meals at home before going out.

The BPA-free food grade silicone is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe.

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ucts are 100% USDA & PA Certified Organic. Our organic liquid tinctures and teas help your pet strengthen digestion, boost immunity, calm anxiety and more. For your pet’s well-being and peace of mind.

same therapeutic energy of Low Level La+HUEV)RU<RXU3HWV FRP •increase circulation sers at a fraction of the cost. Safe, easy to theinjuries, future of an +HUEV)RU<RXU3HWV#DRO FRP use and effective. Illuminating Great for treating

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HOLIDAY SPECIAL Purchase a $500.00 coupon for $250.00, 50% off! Good towards any massage or acupressure certificate course.

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Drinkwell® Stainless Steel 360 Fountain Developed by a Veterinarian, the Stainless Steel 360 Fountain provides 1 gallon of fresh, filtered water to your pet while looking stylish in the home. The 360 offers multiple free-falling water streams and the circular design allows pets to drink from any angle, the perfect gift for multiple pet households!

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35

Holiday gift guide Give the gift of Hands-free Pet Grooming!!

Barnies Buddies 100% Canadian Treat, No Additives, No Preservatives, Human Grade, RAW Compatible, Single Meat Ingredient, Dried Jerky, Cute Packaging. This is what Canadians are asking for. By the makers of Barnies Horse Treats Canada.

PET WASH the grooming restraint that attaches to any smooth surface and safely holds your pet during bath or grooming time. Your furry friend will be more relaxed and so will you!! Holds any pet size and comes in two stylish colors.

www.barnies.ca sales@barnies.ca

www.petwashhome.com 941-320-7477

Interactive Challenging Toys at PatisPaws. com!

Soggy Paws STOP Here!

Pet Kelp Antioxidant FormulaNutrition Boosters for Dogs: Pet Kelp’s Antioxidant Formula combines over 70 minerals and vitamins from their proprietary blend of Nova Scotia kelps with antioxidant-rich wild blueberries. This formula is a holistic solution for helping boost a dog’s natural ability to fight minor illnesses. Also appropriate a well balanced nutrient addition to a raw-fed diet.

Pet Kelp Antioxidant Formula

www.petkelp.com 707-955-5357

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animal wellness

The superabsorbent, microfiber chenille Soggy Doggy Doormat® and Soggy Doggy Super Shammy absorb 5X more water than regular cotton doormats and towels. No more mucky paw prints on clean floors! Machine wash & dry!

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A smart and active dog is a happy pet. This puzzle chew toy keeps dogs busy by providing hours of challenging mental and physical stimulation. This toy has multiple chambers for hiding treats. Detachable toys also provide locations to hide treats. Makes a great gift for your best friend.

www.patispaws.com

SMOOCHY POOCHY The optional hands-free leash designed by Smoochy Poochy that targets your dog’s lifestyle activities: shopping, visiting, walking, training, jogging, hiking, just about anything…

Smoochy products are made out of colorful nylon webbing or a ‘leather look alike’ material. Have a safe and Smooch’N holiday season!

Canadian connection: info@smoochypoochy.com

Drinkwell® Outdoor Dog Fountain

416-407-8898

The newest Drinkwell® fountain holds 3.5 gallons of water for large breed dogs and can be placed inside or outside the home, temperatures permitting. The Outdoor Dog has two one-gallon reservoirs that increase capacity and make refills easy. While a dualfiltration system keeps water cleaner and fresher for your pet!

U.S. connection: www.barkz.com 425-822-0292

www.petsafe.net / 800-732-2677

love

Puppy

Puppies are a lot of fun, but ensuring they grow into healthy, well-adjusted dogs requires a well-rounded approach that factors in everything from nutrition to socialization. These six steps will get your new friend on the road to a long and happy life.

by Sara Jackson

B

ringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it’s also a big responsibility. You want your little friend to grow into a happy, healthy dog who will be with you for many years, but how do you know where to start? A lot of people find themselves wishing puppies came with an instruction manual, but it’s really not that difficult.

1. Nutrition One of the most important things you can do for your puppy is start him on a healthy diet from day one. Choose a quality premium product made from ingredients that are as natural as possible. Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk recommends feeding your puppy grain-free foods that have no additives or preservatives. “Label reading is crucial,” he says. “Fresh frozen raw foods are the most natural, in my opinion. They come as patties or nuggets, which you thaw out daily. These foods have the needed nutrients in them.”

Many pet food companies offer diets formulated specifically for puppies. These tend to be higher in protein, vitamins and minerals than diets for adult dogs.

If you opt for one of these diets, be sure again to choose a premium quality product. They cost more, but look at it as an investment in your puppy’s health as an adult.

If you’re considering a home-prepared diet, be sure you thoroughly educate yourself on what a growing puppy needs in order to thrive. “It’s important to follow recipes to make sure all vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, etc., are included,” advises Dr. Newkirk. It’s wise to work with an integrative or holistic vet who can give you nutritional advice on home-feeding a puppy.

Dr. Newkirk also recommends supplemental vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Vitamins B and C are extremely helpful, especially for joint-related health. Since your animal wellness

37

“I want my best friend with me always”

puppy may be prone to digestive upsets, Dr. Newkirk recommends adding extra fiber such as sweet potato, canned pumpkin, coconut or apple to his diet. “Raw eggs two times a week, with the shell (nature’s calcium), are a good extra protein supplement,” he adds.

“One nice ‘side effect’ of feeding a good diet is that there are no fillers, so stool amounts and frequency will be much less. It’s great for house training!”

2. Feeding schedule “Give the Gift of Optimum Health and Vitality this Holiday Season.

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From the time of your puppy’s birth up to six months of age, he will need to consume as much as two to four times the food an adult dog would eat. This means he should be fed three times a day.

After six months of age, reduce your puppy’s feedings to twice a day. Once he’s a year old, you can reduce this to once per day, or else give him smaller quantities twice a day. “I like feeding twice a day,” says Dr. Newkirk. “How much depends on the breed, rate of growth and so on.”

Puppies are gluttons, so a good rule of thumb is to let yours eat as much as he wants in 15 minutes, then pick up the food dish. If you let him free feed throughout the day, you run the risk of him becoming overweight and developing health problems later in life.

3. House training A puppy’s house training, which can begin after five weeks of age, will be contingent upon his feeding schedule, which in turn will be determined by your schedule. Luckily for you, most puppies don’t like going to the bathroom where they live, so house training should be a breeze. Take him outside immediately after he eats or drinks, but also offer him bathroom breaks after naps, playtime or any time you see him sniffing about the house. This helps get him into the habit of going outside to relieve himself.

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animal wellness

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Once your puppy has finished doing his business outside, get down to his level and thoroughly praise him. If you are consistent in your training, then after about a week, your puppy should automatically go to the door to be let out whenever the urge strikes him.

Note that even though a puppy can hold his bladder for up to 13 hours, you should never wait this long to take him outside to relieve himself. If you’re not continued on page 40

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animal wellness

39

continued from page 38 going to be home for a long period, get someone else to take the puppy outside.

life. Up until 18 to 24 months of age, your puppy’s bones are still soft and spongy.

4. Core vaccines

“Fortunately most puppies exercise themselves quite well,” says Dr. Newkirk. “Bone and joint- related problems usually occur in puppies that are pushed into work, such as agility, retrieving and fly ball.” Activities such as jumping and rough play with other dogs should be avoided.

While over-vaccination has negative effects and is best avoided, it’s nevertheless important that puppies are protected from the most common infectious diseases. A puppy’s immune system has not yet fully developed, making him highly susceptible to distemper, parvo and adenovirus.

Your puppy’s vaccination schedule will depend on his lifestyle and vicinity to other animals. He should receive his core vaccines at the age of 12 weeks. Before that, many puppies still have passive maternal antibodies that block immunization, so they may not respond to the vaccine and will therefore be unprotected.

There are four core vaccines: canine distemper (CDV), canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2), canine adenovirus-2 (CAV-2) and rabies. Although rabies may not be an issue for many dogs, the vaccine is still required by law in most regions.

Once your puppy has been properly immunized, ask your vet if he can be given titer testing thereafter, rather than annual boosters. A growing body of evidence is showing that most vaccines have duration of immunity lasting up to seven or nine years in some cases, making annual vaccination unnecessary.

5. Exercise It’s fun to watch your puppy race around the yard at full speed, but excessive running or any other type of overexertion can prove to be a problem later in your puppy’s

40

animal wellness

Appropriate exercise for your puppy could include short walks and playing with toys in a contained area. As he grows older, you can extend his walks and playtimes.

6. Socialization Your puppy’s brain is more apt to accept new experiences such as people, animals and situations between the ages of four and 12 weeks. At a certain point during this time, puppies go through what is called a fear imprinting stage, so it’s crucial to your pup’s development to introduce him to a variety of stimuli every day, while ensuring that each experience is a positive one. If the experiences are negative, you will wind up with a dog that’s anti-social and fearful.

You also need to establish yourself as your puppy’s leader.

As he grows and experiences more things, his confidence and trust in you will grow, and he’ll come to happily depend on you to guide him through life.

Taking a holistic approach to your puppy’s physical and mental development will help him grow into a loving, healthy and well-adjusted companion who will give you many years of unconditional love and joy.

A healthy

Alternative This eco-friendly online pet store focuses on natural and organic products for dogs and cats.

Marty combines his passion for natural living, animals and a healthy planet.

by Brenda Mortimer

S

ometimes the simplest ideas have the most clout.

When Marty Grosjean founded Only Natural Pet Store in 2004, he was motivated by his personal passion for a natural and organic lifestyle. “He wanted to offer people an alternative to the big brand kibbles and conventional vet pharmaceuticals that control the market,” says Bob Dodge, the company’s VP of Direct Marketing. “The business started in the proverbial garage, and from this meagre beginning has grown to become a leader in online natural pet living.”

The internet retail company (onlynaturalpet.com) offers a complete range of natural organic products, including pet food and treats as well as supplements that address all kinds of issues including allergies, joint support and immune strength. There’s also natural flea control and grooming products, cat litter and accessories such as toys, bowls, beds and cat scratchers, along with flower essences, herbs, homeopathics and other holistic remedies. “Everything we sell must meet our detailed standards for being ‘natural’,” says Bob. “The idea is that if our customers buy from us, they don’t have to worry about checking the ingredients, because we’ve already done that.”

To help them with this, the company has a Veterinary Board of Advisors composed of two vets, Dr. Jean Hofve and Dr. Steve Sanderlin. “Both are experienced holistic veterinarians who understand the importance of alternative approaches to pet health. Dr. Hofve is well known in the industry and is a frequent speaker and author about holistic pet health issues. Dr. Sanderlin is a practicing vet here in the Boulder area

and is continuously using our products and providing us feedback. Both help with product development and contribute content to our website, which has a lot of articles and other information about holistic healthcare.”

Marty and Bob pride themselves on operating an eco-friendly business. “We strive to benefit the environment as much as possible by running on 100% wind power, operating our facilities at near zero waste, using recycled and compostable packing materials, encouraging our employees to bike and bus to work, and doing anything else possible to lower our carbon footprint,” explains Bob. The company also supports animal charities and causes around the world. “We recently completed a promotion that will benefit the Seeing Eye Dog Foundation and Pets for the Elderly. We are frequent contributors to the Humane Society as well as international causes such as the Japan earthquake/ tsunami and Haiti earthquake relief efforts.”

Only Natural Pet Store has come a long way since its humble beginnings in a garage, and is now comprised of a large warehouse from which products are shipped all over the country, as well as a retail store in Boulder.

“The most enjoyable part of what we do can be seen at our company every day. The office kitchen is filled with as many dog bowls as plates, a customer service call is often followed by a tug-of-war match, and there’s at least one wagging tail at every meeting. We truly care about what we do.” animal wellness

41

Room and board

BY SANDRA MURPHY

Going Away For The Holidays? Check Out These Seven Suggestions For Choosing The Best Boarding Kennel For Your Dog. Two Airedales enjoy outdoor playtime at the Stay N Play Ranch. Regular time for exercise and fun is an important factor to look for when choosing a boarding kennel.

P

lanning a trip to visit family or friends this festive season?

Depending on how long you’ll be away, you may need to hire a pet sitter or board your companion at a kennel.

too. The following suggestions will help ensure you select a kennel that will take good care of your best friend.

1

Many people balk at the idea of leaving their dogs at a kennel, but if you choose the right facility, your companion can have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The advantage of a good kennel is that he’ll never be alone, and may even make some new friends, both human and canine.

For an enjoyable stress-free stay, the kennel should be willing and able to meet the needs of your dog, advises Charlotte Biggs, owner of Stay N Play Pet Ranch near Austin, Texas. The facility should not be “one-sizefits-all”. What works for your cousin’s Lab or a neighbor’s golden won’t work for an older dachshund or Shih tzu.

Finding the right kennel at the last minute amid all your other holiday preparations can be stressful, so give yourself a head start and begin looking around well in advance of your trip. It’s a good idea to check out several facilities before making a choice – and let your dog check them out

For example, if your dog has trouble getting to his feet, or is prone to stress, ask if someone will be able to spend one-on-one time with him. “Ask how they handle stressed animals who may bark, whine or howl for long periods of time,” says Dr. Julies Benson, VP of Veterinary Services at

42

animal wellness

Petplan. “Can you call in for an update while you’re away?

Is there a webcam so you can see how he’s doing?”

“At our facility, older animals or those with physical limitations are kept in a special area to help make their stay less stressful,” says Sharon West, owner of Westinn Kennels in Wentzville, Missouri.

“Catering to what humans want is what most facilities used to focus on,” adds Colleen Stafford, owner of Far Fetched Acres in New York City. “Dogs were suffering as a result. I opened my facility as luxury for dogs, not humans. The most important piece to finding a boarding facility right for your dog is to know what he likes. Social environments, like group play, are great only if your dog is already social.”

Look for clean runs, no odors and happy dogs.

2

Take a tour of the facility, at first without your dog.

Look for clean runs, no odors and happy dogs. Do the employees look like they’re having a good time with the dogs, or just putting in their eight hours? Accidents and messes should be cleaned up promptly. Ask how the kennel prevents the spread of germs or bacteria.

“Our kennel is climate-controlled and equipped with an air exchange system to help prevent the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria,” says Sharon. “The kennels are cleaned and sanitized each day and before every new occupant. Kennels feature a deck for dogs who want to be off the floor. In summer, most dogs prefer a cool place. In the winter, we provide fluffy bedding for them.”

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If you opt for group play, be sure to ask what the ratio of workers to dogs is. Westinn has a 1:20 ratio. In case of a disagreement between dogs, have workers been trained to break up a fight?

3

Budget is always a concern, but the lowest price isn’t always the best – as with all things, you get what you pay for. If you want your dog to have a good time, and not just sit in a run all day, you’ll probably have to pay more, but it’s worth it. Extra services and activities can range from nature walks and agility to massage and spa-

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ALL

NATURAL SKIN CARE FOR ANIMALS animal wellness

43

dogs do fine at a kennel, but more anxious types may not.

Photo courtesy Melanie Cambron.

For example, a Bernese mountain dog named Lucy was taken back to a kennel for a second stay. As her

The facility should not be “one-size-fits-all”.

Play, attention and treats are all important.

like pampering. “Most people sign up for more exercise time and nail trims,” Sharon says.

Just watch out for hidden costs. Addons can accumulate until your bill is higher than you’d planned. Extra charges can be added for dispensing medicines, special bedding for elderly dogs, feeding your own food instead of the kennel’s, group playtime, exercise outside the run, and even treats. While all these things are important, you want to find out how much extra they might cost beforehand so you won’t get any unexpected surprises when you’re handed the bill.

4

Be sure to find out about the facility’s emergency procedures.

Make sure an evacuation plan is in place, not just for the dogs, but also for their information so that you can be notified where your companion has been taken in case of a natural disaster like a flood, a hurricane or wildfire. Stay N Play Pet Ranch has a reciprocal agreement with another kennel. If one is in need, the other will take in all the animals.

5

44

Make sure there is someone on the premises at all times, to handle

animal wellness

any problem at the facility or tend to a dog in distress. Most kennels will take a dog to his regular vet unless it’s a crisis situation, in which case they will head to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital. If your dog has a chronic ailment like epilepsy or diabetes, or is having treatment for cancer, make sure the kennel has a copy of his medical records and a way to contact both you and your vet for consultation.

It’s also advisable to leave a medical directive with the kennel so your dog doesn’t suffer needlessly while phone calls are made and returned.

Areas to cover include: • Should extreme measures be taken?

• What is your cost limit?

• Who should be called if you can’t be reached?

• What should the kennel do in an end-of-life situation?

6

Once you’ve found a kennel you think is right, sign your dog up for a daycare visit to test it out. He’ll be reassured by your return at the end of the day. Assess his attitude when you take him home. Is he relaxed, happy and comfortably tired, or stressed and anxious? Most

person got her things out of the car, he felt a tug on the leash. Lucy had jumped on the trunk and then the roof of the car, and refused to come down. “Dogs never lie,” says Charlotte. “If they don’t want to go back, there’s a reason. Listen to your dog.”

When you’re ready to try an overnight visit, be sure to send along your dog’s bed and his own food. A sudden change of diet, especially in a strange environment, is not only stressful, but can lead to diarrhea and other digestive upsets.

7

Most kennels will ask for vaccination records. If you’re trying to reduce the number of vaccines your dog receives, ask if the kennel will accept titer tests from your veterinarian. This is becoming an acceptable practice as more is learned about the dangers of overvaccination. “From a veterinary perspective, there’s no reason why a kennel couldn’t accept titers in lieu of an actual vaccine,” says veterinarian Dr. Bruce Silverman.

By following these seven tips, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your holiday trip, knowing that your dog will be well looked after while you’re gone.

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animal wellness

45

warm & Fuzzy you can’t hurry

by Sharon Pflaumer

It took time, but the author finally won Kaspir’s heart.

N

ot every purebred dog is destined to be a champion

dog and wanted to place him in a home where he didn’t

in the breed ring. That was the case with Kaspir, a

have to share the attention with a kennel full of other dogs.

stunning mahogany sable rough collie who became a dog

But given his intense devotion to her, she knew he needed to

show “dropout.”

be placed with just the right person. She was willing to wait until that person came along.

His breeder began showing him, but had to send him out with a professional handler after she fell ill. Unfortunately,

That’s where I entered the picture. After I was forced to

Kaspir’s championship wasn’t meant to be. While all collies

euthanize Dude, my beloved 16-year-old Australian cattle

are devoted to their people, Kaspir was exceptionally so.

dog, I went to her kennel looking for another dog to fill the

He missed his breeder so much that he became depressed

hole in my heart. I’d decided to get a collie because I liked

while traveling the dog show circuit without her. When he

herding breeds, but couldn’t bear to get another Australian

no longer gaited proudly around the ring or stood with his

cattle dog for fear it would be a constant reminder of

ears up after being stacked, the handler returned him to his

Dude’s loss.

breeder. And that’s where he remained for the next year.

The moment I saw Kaspir, who was now 2½ years old, I was Kaspir’s breeder was eager for him to enjoy life as a family

46

animal wellness

drawn to him. He is one of the most beautiful collies I’ve ever

seen — but it wasn’t just that. There was something about the way he followed his breeder around that touched me. I snapped a leash to Kaspir’s collar and he jumped inside my van.

But Kaspir wasn’t drawn to me as I was to him. The first night, when I invited him up on my bed where Dude had slept for so many years, Kaspir accommodated my request, but only for a few minutes. Then he jumped off and lay in a corner of the bedroom on the hardwood floor. I told myself the bed was probably too hot. After all, Kaspir’s coat was considerably heavier than Dude’s had been. But there was a sad look in his eyes that made me suspect he was pining for his breeder. When he refused to eat for the next three days, I was sure of it. It took almost two weeks and two visits to my veterinarian before Kaspir began eating normally again.

Fearing I was leaving without him, Kaspir started whining, tore the leash out of his breeder’s hands and frantically ran after me!

After losing Dude, it was difficult for me to return home from work each day. No one in my life, whether person or dog,

absolutely stunning. His whining and frantic jumping made

was ever happier to see me than Dude had been. He was

the little dance he did for me pale in comparison. I knew his

so ecstatic he practically turned himself inside out. Kaspir,

loyalty to his breeder said something good about him. But

on the other hand, barely bothered to get up when he heard

I still was disappointed. Although he’d spent the last three

my key turn in the lock. I knew he hadn’t had enough time

months with me, Kaspir’s heart obviously still remained

to bond with me, but it was still difficult because I missed

with her.

Dude so much. Although I knew Kaspir could never replace Dude, I think I unconsciously expected him to somehow do

Because he was so devoted to his breeder, I took Kaspir to see

exactly that.

her again a few months later. Predictably, his reaction was an instant replay of our last visit. After that, I accepted the

By the time three months had passed, things began to

fact that his breeder always would come first in his heart.

improve. Kaspir progressed to the point of meeting me at the door with a wagging tail when I returned home. One evening,

But that’s not how things turned out. During a third visit to the

I was delighted when he did a little doggie dance because he

breeder’s kennel in late autumn, Kaspir surprised me. As usual,

was so happy to see me! It seemed we were making some

I unlatched his crate, snapped a leash to his collar and walked

progress in the attachment department after all.

him across the yard to where his breeder stood waiting, fully expecting Kaspir to once again prostate himself in ecstasy

That is, until we paid a visit to his breeder. I loaded Kaspir

before her. I handed Kaspir’s leash to her, then turned and

into his crate in my van and set off on the hour-long drive

dashed back to my van to get a hat and a pair of mittens.

to her kennel in the country. When we arrived, I unlatched Kaspir’s crate door and snapped a leash to his collar. After

That’s when things changed forever. Fearing I was leaving

he jumped out of his crate, I walked him across the yard to

without him, Kaspir started whining, tore the leash out of

where his breeder stood waiting.

his breeder’s hands and frantically ran after me! With a tear in my eye, I knelt down and hugged him. I knew from that

When Kaspir realized who she was, his reaction was

moment on he was my boy at last. animal wellness

47

love

Tough Meet Esoteric, a Bostonbased rapper with a soft spot for dogs.

by Lauren Carter

Esoteric takes a break from his busy schedule to spend time with Logan.

W

hen you picture rappers and dogs together, what comes to mind? If it’s an image of a scowling guy with a mean-looking pit bull, you’re not alone. Rappers aren’t always known for being the most sensitive breed, and the stereotype of aggressive rappers brandishing aggressive dogs is all too common. But one rapper, a Boston-based artist named Esoteric, has a devotion to dogs that should dispel some stereotypes and impress every animal lover.

fare. From 2008 to 2010, he worked as a primary care assistant at the MSPCA-Angell Animal Medical Center outside Boston, helping animals who were undergoing surgical procedures such as knee replacements, hip replacements, tooth removal and spaying and neutering. Last April, he held a benefit concert called Sounds for Hounds in conjunction with the MSPCA – all proceeds from the show, held in Cambridge, Massachusetts, went to shelter dogs and homeless animals at the organization.

Esoteric, one-half of the renowned underground duo 7L & Esoteric, is well known not only for his lyrical skills, but also for his love of canines. He has recorded several songs in honor of his own furry friends, including “The King is the Dog” and “Back to the Lab”, an ode to his Labrador retriever, Logan. He has appeared on an episode of Animal Planet’s SuperFetch with Logan, and released a solo album, Saving Seamus Ryan, that tells the loosely autobiographical story of a man saved by his dog’s love.

In short, in a genre where artists seem more likely to project cartoonish levels of toughness than display any hint of sensitivity, Esoteric stands out as a rapper willing to show a softer side.

Esoteric (born Seamus Ryan) is also active in animal wel-

48

animal wellness

“The relationship one has with a dog really thrives on love, compassion and nurturing,” he says. “These characteristics are typically absent in most hip-hop due to the emphasis on being ‘hardcore’. Generally speaking, the only time a dog is used in hip-hop is as an intimidation factor.”

For Esoteric, however, it was natural to pour his passion for canines into his music. “Dogs and the effortless devotion they show to humans are inspiring enough to make the songwriting come easy,” he says. “Every superhero has a weakness, and mine is dogs.”

For Dogs and Cats

Esoteric’s love of animals began at an early age, when he took his first steps with help from his family’s Irish setter, Boo. “He was our first family dog, and he literally taught me how to walk,” Esoteric says. “My mother still tells me how at the age of one, I would follow Boo around the house with both hands on his tail. He patiently dragged me around our little house until I could walk on my own. Also, my mother recently unearthed a photo of me at eight months old, crawling around with a litter of Labrador puppies.”

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His current companion, Logan, who Esoteric calls his “closest four-footed friend over the past five years” was the inspiration behind Saving Seamus Ryan, in which he details how Logan enriches his life. “In the song ‘Back to the Lab’ I really try to paint a picture of just how Logan does that,” Esoteric says. “Sunsets, woods, rivers and people from entirely different walks of life were all incredibly foreign to me before I was focused on getting him exercised and socialized.

Dogs really do so much for you without you knowing it. Any time I need to go out and clear my thoughts, shake a headache or relieve stress, you know who is ready to go? Logan.”

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Esoteric’s two-year position at the MSPCA-Angell Animal Medical Center had him working directly with animals in need, and relaying medicinal information and rehab steps between veterinarians and animal guardians.

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“I saw so many incredible things and so many heartbreaking things,” he says.

“I saw paralyzed dogs come in, and after being treated neurologically they would leave walking within a few days. I prepped dogs with cancer to undergo radiation therapy. I wrestled pills into the mouths of feisty Rottweilers. I’ve seen eleven vets working ferociously to save one dog’s life in an emergency situation.

I have been slashed by cat claws and tackled by dogs.

“I was passionate about every scenario on the job,” he adds. “The hard part was trying to comfort families dealing with loss or injury to their dog or cat.

After having to leave the job due to touring requirements, I organized Sounds for Hounds and gathered some of Boston’s best acts to help raise money for the organization.” The concert raised over $3,500, and Esoteric plans on making the

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49

benefit an annual affair. He hopes to partner with another Boston area shelter for the next event, with the goal of matching or topping his last fundraising total.

“I would love to work with the MSPCA exclusively, but there are a countless number of shelters out there with a lower profile that have the same ailing dogs,” he says.

“After visiting with a few, I am excited about helping them meet their goals.”

The relationship one has with a dog really thrives on love, compassion and nurturing.

Selflessness seems all too rare in any sector of today’s fast-paced society, especially in the hip-hop sphere where compassion and kindness can be rare commodities. For rapper Esoteric, it’s second nature to come to the aid of his best friends.

“I have seen so many inspiring stories from a positive standpoint, and on the negative side, I’ve seen so many heinous crimes against dogs,” he says. “It was a natural progression to try and speak for those without a voice.”

Esoteric, seen here with an MSPCA staff member and two shelter pooches, organized a benefit concert that raised $3,500.

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LoveThem Because you Would your animals be cared for if something happened to you?

This service helps ensure they will.

by Brenda Mortimer

E

nvision the following scenario, suggests Gene Tresenfeld. He crosses the street one day, when he gets hit by a speeding pickup truck. “They take me to hospital, where I am in a coma for eight days.”

Gene recovers, but his animal companions aren’t so fortunate because there is no one to care for them while he’s in hospital. “When I finally get home, my dog Liebe is just lying there. She can’t stand up to give me her usual greeting. I know I’ll never forget her look of ‘Daddy, where were you?’ I rush her to the vet, but they aren’t able to save her. At some point, my cat T-bien has gone out the doggie door to look for food. I never see her again.”

Although it never actually happened, this heartbreaking story is what motivated Gene to help make sure nobody, including himself, has to go through such an experience in real life. The love he has for Liebe and T-bien inspired him to found Because You Love Them (becauseyoulovethem.com), a service that ensures companion animals will be cared for if or when their guardians are not able to do so.

Here’s how it works. First, you choose several trusted friends, relatives or neighbors who agree to care for your animals in case of a personal emergency. Then subscribe to Because You Love Them and provide them with the names and contact numbers of these caregivers. “You’ll also need to name an ICE (In Case of Emergency). This is someone who needs to know if something has happened to the animal parent and can help coordinate the animals care.”

You get two ID cards, one to keep on your person and the other in the glove compartment of your vehicle.

Liebe and T-bien were the inspiration behind Gene’s company.

“If something happens to you, emergency personnel will see the ID card and call our toll-free 24/7 hotline,” explains Gene. “We pull up your profile and right away start contacting every designated caregiver on the list. If we don’t connect with anyone the first time, the software will keep on sending us prompts to try again. We might leave messages, but our job is not done until we have actually spoken with someone. The software keeps each incident ‘open’ until we’ve checked off that we have spoken to both a caregiver and the ICE.” By covering all the bases this way, the company ensures someone knows of your situation and that your animal will get help.

For every 100 standard service subscriptions, Because You Love Them also donates four sets of animal oxygen masks to fire departments. “First responders operate under tight budgets and even if they could afford to buy masks that fit animals, many communities forbid them from spending money on non-humans,” says Gene.

“Every day I tell Liebe and T-bien, ‘Girls, I’m so grateful for our nice little family,’” he adds. “Now I can provide peace of mind to other animal parents and help them keep their loved ones safe.” animal wellness

51

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Massage Therapists Integrative Veterinarians Trainers & Behaviorists Pet Sitters Natural Product Retailers, Manufacturers & Distributors Shelters & Rescues Reiki Chiropractic Acupressure Acupuncture

52

animal wellness

COMMUNICATORS NEW YORK

Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Fayetteville, NY USA Phone: (315) 329-0116 Email: angelwhispurr@gmail.com Website: www.ark-angels.org

Compassionate Consultations and Reiki Energy Healing with Love

ONTARIO

Sue Becker Kitchener, ON Canada Phone: (519) 896-2600 Email: suebecker@cyg.net Website: www.suebecker.net

Communication, Counselling, Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch.

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INTEGRATIVE VETS

ALBERTA

Steven Marsden, DVM Edmonton Holistic Veterinary Clinic Edmonton, AB Canada Phone: 780-436-4944

ARIZONA

Judy Stolz DVM ND Arizona City, AZ USA Phone: (520) 494-9571 Website: www.drstolz.com

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Tree of Life Veterinary Care Courtenay , BC Canada Phone: (250) 338-2316 Website: www.animalhealingchoices.com Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca

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alternative therapy - behavior practices - communicators - holistic healthcare - integrative vets

CALIFORNIA

Caroline Goulard DVM CVA (949) 813-4107 Aliso Viejo, CA USA Phone: (949) 813-4107 Email: c.goulard@cox.net Website: www.carolinegoularddvm.com

IOWA

NEW YORK

Animal Holistic Care Mark Haimann, DVM Floral Park, NY USA Phone: 718-631-1396 SmithRidge Veterinary Services Dr. Marty Goldstein South Salem, NY USA Phone: (914) 533-6066 Website: www.smithridge.com

Acupuncture, Chinese herbals, Tui-na

Holistic Veterinary Center Calabasas, CA USA Phone: (818) 880-0838 Website: www.holistic-vet-center.com EverGlo-Naturals Gloria Dodd, DVM Gualala, CA USA Phone: 707-785-9171 Email: everglo@mcn.org Website: www.holisticvetpetcare.net Creature Comfort Oakland, CA USA Phone: (510) 530-1373 Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Coddingtown Vet Clinic Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 546-4646 Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643

Homeopathy and nutrition for dogs, cats & horses.

Phone consultations available.

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

Specializing in Holistic Analysis for pathogens, allergies, chronic degenerative diseases, etc.

Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984

CONNECTICUT

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

ILLINOIS

Ness Exotic Wellness Center Lisle, IL USA Phone: 630-737-1281 Email: nessexotic@aol.com

ONTARIO

Janet Knowlton, DVM Almonte, ON Canada Phone: 613-253-7473

KENTUCKY

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

MASSACHUSETTS

Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com Canterbury Tails Vet Clinic Ware, MA USA Phone: 413-967-4545 Parkway Veterinary Hospital West Roxbury, MA USA Phone: (617) 469-8400

NEW JERSEY NEWKIRK FAMILY VETERINARIANS Dr. Mark Newkirk

Offering More Solutions with Alternative Therapies â&#x20AC;˘ Allergy â&#x20AC;˘ Chronic Disease â&#x20AC;˘ Cancer

Phone consultations

www.alternativevet.com www.newkirkfamilyveterinarians.com E: mnewk@aol.com P: 609-645-2120

Burgess Veterinary Mobile Services Dundas, ON Canada Phone: 905-379-3824 Website: www.burgessvet.com

Acupuncture, Animal communication, Flower essences, QXCI Biofeedback therapy,Reiki Nutritional Counselling

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

Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Massage, Therapeutic Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine

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animal wellness

53

integrative vets - natural product manufacturers/distributors - natural product retailer

Rockledge Veterinary Clinic

North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service

Sasan Haghighat (Hyatt), D.V.M., C.V.A. Autumn Drouin, D.V.M., N.D.

Acupuncture, Bach Remedies, Chiropractic, Clinical Nutrition, Herbs (western and chinese), Homeopathy, Homotoxicology, Integrative Medicine, TCVM.

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

Homeopathy, Nutrition, Food Sensitivity Testing, Flower Essences, Herbalism, TTouch

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

Conventional & Alternative Medicine, Homeopathy

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

Acupuncture, TCM, Homeopathy, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition and Flower Remedies

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

PENNSYLVANIA

Beaver Animal Clinic Beaver, PA USA Phone: 724-774-8047 Website: www.beaveranimalclinic.com

401 Huntindon Pike, Rockledge, PA 19046

NATURAL PRODUCT

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS

CONNECTICUT

Francie L.Rubin, VMD, Carrie Hutchinson, VMD Laura Jones, DVM, Bill Brice, VMD

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RHODE ISLAND

Sharon R. Doolittle DVM SmithsďŹ eld, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com

TEXAS

Jody Kincaid, DVM, ND Anthony Animal Clinic Anthony, TX USA Phone: 915-886-4558 Website: www.anthonyanimalclinic.com

Holistic Healing Center - Holistic Consultations

Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Acupuncture, Bowen, Essential oils, Nutritional support

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

UTAH

Shannon Hines DVM Orchard Animal Clinc Centerville, UT USA Phone: (801) 296-1230 Website: www.outskirtspress.com/ holisticpetcare

Providing holistic pet care with Acupuncture, Chiropractic, CranioSacral, Homeopathy, Herbs, Traditional Chinese

ILLINOIS

Oscar Newman aka CoCo Therapy Geneva, IL USA Phone: (630) 697-5566 Website: www.cocotherapy.com

NEW YORK

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COLORADO

Holistic Pet Inc. Arvada, CO USA Phone: (303) 888-5101 Email: service@holisticpetinfo.com Website: www.holisticpetinfo.com

VIRGINIA Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide 1-866-764-1212

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animal wellness

Paws to Heal Vet Clinic Vienna, VA USA Phone: (703) 938-2563 Email: info@paws2heal.com Website: www.vetrehab.org

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Grey2K USA Somerville, MA USA Toll Free: 866-2GREY2K Phone: (617) 666-3526 Email: christine@grey2kusa.org Website: www.grey2kusa.org

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WASHINGTON

DERMagci Skin Care for Animals, Inc. Bellevue, WA USA Phone: (425) 637-4643 Email: info@DERMagic.com Website: www.DERMagic.net

Caly Lehrer, RMT Your Spiritual Guardian for Animal Wellness ~ LONG DISTANCE ~ Journeyâ&#x201E;¢ Processes and Reiki Sessions For Animals and Practitioners Pet Loss Support Group Tele~Gatherings

MINNESOTA

Wapiti Labs Inc. Ham Lake, MN USA Phone: (763) 951-7754 Email: info@wapitilabsinc.com Website: www.wapitilabsinc.com/animal

303.862.5424 www.PeaceByPeace.net P.O. Box 630632, Littleton, CO 80163-0632

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animal wellness

55

Pick a policy Buying health insurance for your dog is a smart move, but how do you decide which plan is best? Here are eight questions to ask before making a purchase.

by Lorena O’Connor

I

f someone you love falls ill, expense is no object in getting them well again. What about your dog? Would you spend whatever it takes to keep him with you a little longer? You probably answered with a resounding “yes!” But could you afford it?

Diagnostics and treatments once reserved for humans are now available for our furry friends.

MRIs and cat scans, for example, are now routine for detecting puzzling problems. This is great news, but the costs can be mind-boggling. Pneumonia treatment can run as high as $1,900. Cancer therapy can escalate to $3,600 plus. These costs are beyond the means of many people, especially in the current economic climate.

Health insurance is one way to protect yourself from being faced with hefty bills you can’t cover. Yes, insurance premiums can cost $2,000 to $6,000 over the average lifetime of a dog (about 11 years), and the out-of-pocket total for routine yearly checkups is much less than that. But what if your dog gets badly injured or seriously ill and you need to fight for his life? In this case, health insurance can be a life saver, literally.

Before buying a policy for your dog, you need to make sure you are getting exactly what will meet your requirements, and your dog’s. Getting answers to the following questions will help you make the best decision.

1

What does your veterinarian recommend?

Begin by talking to him/her for suggestions and advice about pet insurance, which company to choose, and his/her experiences in dealing with insurance companies.

2

How do insurance costs compare between companies? Ask for quotes from several companies before making a decision.

3

What does the plan you are interested in cover – routine care, illnesses, accidents? What are the policy’s limits? Is there a maximum coverage? Are any treatments or conditions excluded?

4

Can you go to the veterinarian of your choosing, or must you accept one from the insurer’s list?

56

animal wellness

5

Which deductible should you choose? A higher deductible will lower your monthly premium, but will mean higher out-of-pocket expenses. A lower deductible means just the opposite.

A higher deductible will lower your monthly premium, but will mean higher out-of-pocket expenses.

6

How is your dog’s treatment determined under the policy? Do not let a complex fee or benefit schedule be the deciding factors.

7

How is payment made? Most policies require that you pay the veterinary bill and then submit a claim for reimbursement. Reimbursement can be based on two methods: a. A percentage of your vet’s bill (preferable) b. A percentage of a benefit schedule

8

Is there a waiting period before the policy takes effect?

It’s interesting that the first dog covered by an insurance policy was the famous collie, Lassie, in 1982. Shouldn’t your own pooch get the same treatment?

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Product picks Hurray for HA Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance found in cartilage, bones, skin and body fluids. Tri-Acta H.A. Canine adds hyaluronic acid to its popular Tri-Acta formula to provide long term support for intensive joint problems such as arthritis or physical injury. The product supports normalization of the synovial fluid viscosity (joint lubricant) in articulating joints. It also contains glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin sulphate to create a well-rounded joint supplement that helps alleviate pain and stiffness.

75 grams – $34.99 160 grams – $47.99 350 grams – $85.99 integricare.ca

Learning experience Want to know more about your best friend? e-Training for Dogs is an online college offering a wide array of courses for dog guardians, trainers and other canine professionals and enthusiasts. You’ll find courses on everything from training and massage to fitness and nutrition, holistic methods and remedies, pet loss, performance and service dogs, and much more. Certification is provided in some programs.

Prices vary depending on the course or program e-trainingfordogs.com

Online courses for the dog owner, trainer, breeder and enthusiast.

Online courses for the dog owner, trainer, breeder and enthusiast.

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Pathogen protection Any animal that needs help fighting off bacteria or viruses or is in need of bowel repair can benefit from taking Colostrex from Doctor’s Best For Your Pet. This high quality colostrum product helps boost immunity and promote gastrointestinal healing. Given to newborns, it can protect against harmful local pathogens that may cause pain and discomfort to an animal. It has even been proven to stop chronic pathogen-induced diarrhea within 72 hours.

60 capsules – $19.95 100 gram powder – $26.95 200 gram powder – $49.95 bestforyourpet.com

Digest this Digestive enzymes are crucial for good overall health. A lack of enzymes can overwork the pancreas and contribute to allergies and stiff joints.

Petenzymes.com announces its new and improved Total-Zymes formula containing 16 digestive enzymes. This effective supplement can boost the immune system, improve digestion, promote proper elimination and smaller stools, remove toxins from the body, support joint health and alleviate skin and coat problems.

63 grams – $17.99 228 grams – $35.99 petenzymes.com

Jump for jerky!

Jerky treats have long been a favorite with dogs, but commercial products most often contain a lot of artificial flavors, colors and other unhealthy ingredients. Barnies Buddies Beef Jerky for Dogs is different. It’s handmade from Canadian human grade beef, and contains no additives or preservatives.

This healthy and tasty treat is raw diet compatible.

You can give it to your canine companion with the knowledge that he’s enjoying something that’s also good for him.

150 grams – $9.99 h.ca

No more itching Scratching, shedding and dry skin can be a year round problem for many dogs and cats. BioCoat from Nickers International is a nutritional supplement rich in biotin, an essential B vitamin and enzyme for the synthesis of fatty acids. Biotin helps metabolize carbohydrates and proteins, maximizing the nutritional value of your companion’s diet. It’s a safe, economical and effective alternative to prednisone and antihistamines and contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

3 oz. bottle – $14.61 nickersinternational.com

Put your foot down Winter’s here, and that means ice, snow and road salt in many regions. Protect your pooch’s tender tootsies with Pawz Dog Boots. Made of natural rubber, these disposable and reusable waterproof dog boots are inexpensive and 100% biodegradable. They are designed to go on easily, fit securely without zippers or straps, and allow full paw motion and maximum comfort.

Available in a range of sizes and colors. $13 – $19 for 12 bottles pawzdogboots.com

Help from kelp Kelp is a nutrient-packed food that can significantly enhance your companion’s well being. Pet Kelp’s Antioxidant Formula features a proprietary blend of Nova Scotia kelps and antioxidantrich wild blueberries.

This formula offers your dog or cat over 70 vitamins and minerals and helps boost his natural ability to fight minor illnesses. It also makes a well balanced nutritional addition to a raw food diet.

8 oz. package – $10 petkelp.com animal wellness

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Healing from the desert

It’s still relatively new to North Americans, but camel’s milk is a highly nutritious food that’s showing promise as a healing therapy for dogs.

by Bee Persson

T

hink of camels and you probably think of the desert. These humped dromedaries are welladapted to dry, harsh environments, and have been traditionally used as desert transportation for centuries. But here’s something you may not know about camels – their milk is highly nutritious. It has high levels of potassium, iron and vitamins B and C, and contains lower levels of fat and lactose than cow’s milk.

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In some countries, camel’s milk is said to cure numerous diseases in humans. It may also be beneficial to dogs, says naturopathic doctor Millie Hinkle. “Camel’s milk is almost a perfect food for humans so why wouldn’t it also be great for dogs?” she says.

Because dogs in other cultures are not as pampered as those in North America, case studies with dogs and camel

Camels yield milk for nine to 12 months of the year.

Dr. Hinkle visits with her dromedary friends.

milk are virtually non-existent. However, Dr. Hinkle has been working with several veterinarians to verify observations that camel’s milk can help dogs with diabetes, cancer and skin rashes. “It’s exciting to be on the cutting edge of such a unique way to treat our pawed friends,” she says.

Diabetes: India has more people with diabetes than any other country in the world – with the exception of one region where the disease is virtually non-existent.

Most members of this particular tribe drink camel’s milk every day. Camel’s milk contains approximately 52 units of insulin per liter. Unlike prescribed insulin, camel’s milk insulin protein can pass through the stomach easily without getting destroyed.

Promising results have also been found in dogs. One published study found that after only three weeks, dogs drinking at least one cup of camel’s milk a day had a significant decrease in blood glucose levels and total protein concentrations. This improvement continued even after the camel’s milk was no longer given.

Camels can produce milk until they are 20 years of age. animal wellness

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Digestion and weight gain: When a dog belonging to breeder Donna DeFalcis had a litter of ten puppies but was unable to produce enough milk for them all, Donna supplemented the mother’s milk with camel’s milk. The puppies loved it. “They would gobble up whatever we gave them and simply thrived on the camel’s milk,” says Donna.

Half the puppies had been underweight, but they gained a least a pound a week and had none of the diarrhea commonly associated with giving a dog cow’s milk. Camel’s milk is low in lactate and has a different type of casein than cow’s milk. It’s ideal for humans with milk allergies, and clearly also helps dogs.

Cancer: An extensive study done by the University of Georgia confirms that cancer is the most common cause of death in dogs of any age. This devastating disease is both costly and uncomfortable to treat. The good news is that the immunoglobulins (antibodies) in camel’s milk are able to penetrate cells and fight cancer. The milk also seems to enhance chemotherapy treatment while reducing many of the negative side effects.

The milk is high in lactoferrins (ten times higher than cow’s milk), which offer major antiviral and antibacterial proprieties, and also contain a high number of probiotics.

It appears to help dogs with cancer fight off illness and maintain weight.

Although many people have observed improvements in their dogs by giving them camel’s milk, there have so far been no medical studies done to confirm it. “I am reviewing results from owners of dogs with cancer to see if there is any positive benefit to the use of camel’s milk,” says Dr. Hinkle. “Although we do not have any conclusive evidence yet, the results look promising.”

Skin rashes and mange:

Dry, flaky skin, itching and chronic rashes can be a very irritating and miserable problem for dogs. Traditional treatments for fleas, mites and skin allergies might reduce the symptoms, but the underlying problem can persist.

Creams containing camel’s milk are available for humans, and are purported to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis.

It follows that camel’s milk should also be helpful for skin problems in canines. Dr. Hinkle is in the process of formulating a camel’s milk skin cream for dogs. After all, the milk contains six types of fatty acid, including lanolic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids for softening the skin. It also contains vitamin C, a natural antioxidant.

Camel milk is high in: • Amino acids • B vitamins • Calcium • Fatty acids • Iron 62

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• Magnesium • Potassium • Protein • Vitamin E • Zinc

The downside to camel’s milk is that it’s still difficult to obtain in the United States, although Dr. Hinkle is working to increase the number of camel dairies so that supplies will be more accessible and affordable. “With my cancer study underway, the skin cream under development, and research continuing on diabetes in dogs, I know that camel’s milk will soon be more readily available and in use to help treat our canine companions.”

For more information, visit camelmilkusa.com.

feline wellness Hip, cool and healthy!

Lend me your

ears

Cauliflower ear isn’t just a boxer’s affliction

cold

It’s outside!

Top tips for keeping outdoor

CAT

CHAT

cats safe during the winter

Something about Merry

Sharing Reiki energy with a special shelter cat

playtime!

It’s Daily interactive play keeps felines fit

FelineWellness.com

animal wellness

63

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cat chat Going wild As human development encroaches on natural environments at an ever-increasing rate, encounters between wild and domesticated animals are becoming more common. Studies show that in many suburban areas, free roaming cats make up 42% of the diet of coyotes. Conversely, free roaming cats have an impact on smaller wildlife. A study by ecologists Kevin Crooks and Michael Soulé tracked the numbers of “kills” by free roaming cats in San Diego County. It showed these cats brought home an average of 24 small mammals, 15 birds and 17 lizards per year.

Felines are tops

How hot is this?

According to the 2011-2012 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey, cats are the most popular companion animals. Over 86 million cats live in American households across the nation, as compared to just over 78 million dogs. The survey also shows that Americans spend an average of $219 a year on routine vet visits for their cats, and $220 on food.

Looking for a 2012 calendar, and a great gift idea for the feline-loving gals on your list? How about the Kittendales calendar from Hull Seaside Animal Rescue (HSAR)? The Massachusetts-based no-kill cat shelter is entering its fifth year of offering this popular calendar, which features photos of 12 muscular men holding a shelter cat or kitten. The calendar costs $20, and all proceeds go directly to the feeding and healthcare of HSAR’s cats. hsar.org

Keep tinsel out of your cat’s reach – it can cause intestinal obstruction if ingested.

A cat with attitude Originally written in 1697 by French writer and retired civil servant Charles Perrault, Puss in Boots features an enduring fairy tale feline who has now come alive on the silver screen thanks to DreamWorks Animation’s recently-released 3D production. First seen in Shrek, the swashbuckling, sword-fighting feline, voiced by Spanish actor Antonio Banderas, stars in the new movie, which covers the events leading up to his meeting with Shrek. If you didn’t get to the see the movie, look for it to be released on DVD and Blu-ray in the coming months. feline wellness

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cat chat Let’s play!

Like to play with some shelter cats? Just turn on your computer! The Clinton Humane Society (CHS) in Ohio is launching a newly developed technology that allows the public to interact with its cats over the web. iPet Companion lets users control speciallydesigned cat toys with the click of a mouse, and see live video of the cats’ response. iPet Companion is free to the public and has already boosted adoptions, donations and sponsorships. “If this can improve the quality of life for our animals, we welcome the world inside our shelter,” says Tammy Olsen. While iPet Companion is helpful to shelter cats, it’s also helpful to users on the other end. Many disabled, allergenic, elderly and housebound online users have commented on how much they enjoy playing with the cats, which in their daily lives would otherwise be impossible. The CHS is one of only five Humane Societies in the world to adopt this cutting edge technology. clintonhumanesociety.org

Intestinal cancer study A recent large-scale study on intestinal cancer in cats could ultimately benefit humans. “We are looking for patterns of cancer development in animals, so we can find common risk factors,” says Kim Selting, associate teaching professor of oncology at the MU College of Veterinary Medicine.

Using a database, the researchers examined 1,129 cases covering 47 years of intestinal cancer in cats. The researchers found that most feline intestinal cancers were lymphoma, or cancer of the immune system, and most were found in the small intestines. The researchers also determined that the Siamese breed, particularly males seven years of age or older, had an increased risk of developing intestinal cancer.

Kim says that tracking animal cancer is important because animals share the environment with humans. By noting patterns of cancer development, doctors and veterinarians may become aware of environmental factors that could be causing tumor progression in different species, including people.

“Animal health care may predict what could be coming for human health care,” she says. http://munews.missouri.edu

A young cat at CHS enjoys iPet Companion.

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A bird feeder outside the window provides hours of winter entertainment for indoor cats.

The cat’s meow This past summer, California’s Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) and Pet-Connections, Inc., successfully launched the BIG MEOW, a program designed to provide nocost spay and neuter services for free roaming cats. The yearlong program began on August 17 and over 100 surgeries were performed that day alone.

“The BIG MEOW is making a tremendous impact on our surplus cat population,” says SEAACA’s Executive Director, Dan Morrison. “We’ve been able to help hundreds of cats and educate our community on appropriate cat care.”

In order to participate in the BIG MEOW, a cat must be at least four months but no older than seven, and weigh less than 30 pounds. Only owned free roaming cats are eligible (no feral or wild cats will be accepted). Additionally, people must provide proof of residency in one of the cities served by SEAACA. Visit seaaca.org for more information.

Kitties of Kabul Alley Cat Allies, an organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats, recently reached out to the leadership of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan with materials and guidance on putting in place humane programs for feral cats, following news reports that embassy staff were grappling over the fate of a colony of cats who make their home on the grounds of the embassy.

“We are heartened by the fact that the embassy leadership has seemingly halted earlier plans to remove and kill these cats,” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies.

“Like many feral cat colonies, these cats provide comfort to those trusted humans who in turn provide the cats with food and water. This is certainly true for the men and women who staff this embassy, far from home, working in a highly stressful and combative atmosphere.The companionship and sense of normalcy these cats provide is extremely important to them, and we hope the embassy leadership continues to respect that.”

As part of its outreach to the embassy, Alley Cat Allies has provided information about the Trap-Neuter-Return

program, along with advice on humane deterrents and other tips for managing the cats and keeping them out of specific areas of the embassy’s grounds. feline wellness

67

It’s cold outside!

Does your cat spend time outdoors during the winter? Here are ten tips for keeping him safe when the weather is frightful.

by Ann Brightman

O

ur family once had a cat named Nicky who loved the snow. After a storm, he’d meow at the front door until someone let him out. Then he’d race down the steps and start swirling the snow around with his paws. Only the deepest drifts deterred him, and he seemed to find the cold air invigorating rather than nasty.

Trouble is, Nicky enjoyed winter a bit too much. His ears got frostbitten once (probably while staking out the bird

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feeder for too long) and he went through the remainder of his life missing their tips.

Depending on where you live, winter can be severe. Bitter cold, deep snow, ice and biting winds are the norm in many more northerly regions, sometimes for months on end. And while most cats prefer to stay indoors where it’s warm rather than venture out in the cold and wet, some, like Nicky, seem to enjoy this time of year.

If you have a cat who likes to go outside during the winter, you need to be aware of the seasonal hazards that can threaten his safety, and take steps to protect him.

1

Extremely cold temperatures can be dangerous to exposed skin, especially delicate ear tips. Try keeping your cat inside as much as possible on the coldest days, especially when it’s windy. Even a light wind can make the air feel much colder than it really is.

2

Road salt and de-icing materials can hurt your cat’s paw pads, and may even make him sick if he licks his feet after coming back inside.

Use non-toxic products on your sidewalks and driveway, and wipe your cat’s feet off with a damp cloth as soon as he comes back inside.

3

Anti-freeze is highly poisonous to animals. Clean up any spills, immediately and thoroughly.

4

Some cats like to climb up inside cars and snooze on warm engines.

Bang on the hood of your car several times before starting it up. Do this even if your cat stays inside most of the time – it could save the life of a neighborhood stray who might have sheltered there during the night.

5

Unlike dogs, most cats don’t like the idea of wearing a sweater or coat. If yours does, great – but only let him wear it when you can stay outside to supervise him. Otherwise, he might get it snagged on a fence or hedge and injure himself or even freeze to death trying to get free.

6

If your cat is trained to a harness and leash, take him out for short walks on mild or sunny winter days, preferably in an area that’s sheltered from the wind. This will allow you to

keep an eye on him and prevent him from treading in road salt or sampling anti-freeze that someone else in the neighborhood might have spilled.

Stay with your cat at all times when he’s on a leash – never tether him outdoors alone, especially in winter.

7

When the weather is severe, wild predators may find it difficult to find food. Depending on where you live, hungry coyotes, fishers and other wild carnivores may pose a threat to outdoor cats. Try and keep your kitty close to home, and have him stay indoors at night, when many predators hunt.

8

If you feed wild birds during the winter, locate your feeders where your cat can’t get at them. Every year, many thousands of wild birds are killed by outdoor cats – don’t let your kitty add to the numbers! Hang feeders in the open, well away from hedges and other places where cats can hide. Use specially designed feeder stands and hooks rather than hanging your feeders from a tree that cats can climb. Situate one feeder right next to a window so your cat can vicariously satisfy some of his hunting needs by watching birds from the safety and comfort of the house.

9

Never force your cat to stay outdoors if he doesn’t want to.

Allow him to decide when it’s time to come back inside.

10

If your cat likes to spend a lot of time outdoors during the winter, he might need a bit more protein in his diet. Give him an extra spoonful of food at mealtimes, or have some healthy treats on hand for when he comes in. And be sure to provide him with some cozy places around the house to warm up in when he’s done with exploring and ready to take a nap! feline wellness

69

Lend me your ears

Cauliflower ear isn’t just a boxer’s affliction.

It can also appear in cats, though for different reasons.

by Jeffrey Ober

“M

y sister just adopted a cat with a strange crinkled ear,” says Karen.

“We have no idea what caused it, but it doesn’t seem to be bothering him.

Was he born that way, or did he get hurt at one time?”

The condition Karen is referring to is called cauliflower ear, also known as “crinkle ear”. It’s relatively common, especially among stray and feral cats. And while it may look peculiar, it’s relatively harmless in the long run.

What happened?

The pathology of cauliflower ear is fairly well understood.

According to veterinarian Dr. Martha Smith, it’s actually a scarring of the pinna, or flap part of the ear. This scar tissue forms as the ear heals itself from an injury.

When the injury first occurs, adds Dr. Shana Savikko of the American Animal Hospital Association, the ear flap will swell with blood and other fluid, causing a lump, usually on the inside of the cat’s ear. The lump may or may not be tender to the touch. It typically will not drain itself;

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The author’s cat has “crinkle ear”.

instead, the cat’s body will eventually re-absorb the fluid, forming scar tissue that causes the ear to actually crinkle out of shape. The amount of crinkle varies, depending on the seriousness of the injury.

Veterinarian Dr. Ann Hohenhaus says an injured ear can be drained, but scar tissue will still form, and the ear will never regain its original smooth shape. Certainly, if the lump is large or painful, take your cat to the veterinarian so he/she can drain the fluid and relieve the pain.

In very severe cases, the blood-filled lump may expand and block the ear canal; the resulting scar tissue can also block the ear canal by twisting the ear. In these cases, surgery can

repair the blockage, although it cannot eliminate the crinkle.

Causes can vary The initial wound at the root of “crinkle ear” is usually self-inflicted – unlike the cauliflower ear common to boxers. Many veterinary doctors say it may be caused by a rapid shaking of the head, usually triggered by an itching in the ears. An injury can also occur when the cat scratches the itch and cuts and breaks capillaries in the tender tissue with his claws. The itching may arise from various sources, including allergies and ear mites. Of course, cat fights may also result in injuries that can lead to cauliflower ear, one reason why this condition is more often seen in stray or feral cats.

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Sometimes, the cause of cauliflower ear can be a little more complicated.

Veterinarian Dr. John Symes is convinced it’s a symptom of a serotonin deficiency possibly caused by a food allergy. This deficiency shows up as a clotting disorder that allows the blood to flow into the ear, expanding an injury at the initial site of the trauma. To avoid this potential source of cauliflower ear, Dr. Symes suggests feeding cats a diet free of likely allergens – gluten, corn, soy and dairy products.

The good news is that cauliflower ear in itself won’t hurt or trouble your cat. You can help prevent it by nipping ear mites in the bud if they occur, doing what you can to keep your cat allergy-free through diet and other measures, and not letting him get into fights with other felines. If, like Karen’s sister, you’ve adopted a cat that already has a crinkled ear, just relax and enjoy his unique appearance! feline wellness

71

Something about

Merry

Sharing time and Reiki energy with a special shelter cat left a lasting impression on this animal communicator.

by Janet Dobbs

Merry takes a break from her job as a Humane Society office cat and shelter greeter.

F

rom the first moment our eyes locked, Merry reeled me in, hook, line and sinker.

Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the office cat at our local Humane Society. I met her one afternoon in late fall, the most beautiful white, gold and black kitty, lying on a sofa in the conference room. I was told to keep my distance because she might bite!

Merry looked up and checked me out. As an animal communicator, I introduced myself and asked her if it was all right to join her on her sofa. She sized me up and communicated back: Feel free. I asked her if she would like some Reiki. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, she responded. Just sit with me for a while. I will let you know.

Introduction to Reiki Reiki is a gentle yet powerful Japanese system of healing. It is energy work similar to Healing Touch, where the practitioner channels energy from the universe through his/her hands. It supports self-healing on all levels by balancing energy, and working on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels of the body. Reiki is practiced in major hospitals all over the world to assist cancer

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feline wellness

patients, help with pain management, speed healing after surgery, etc. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also applied to animals and complements both allopathic and holistic medicine.

Reiki is based on the concept that all living beings have universal energy (life force) flowing through them.

When this energy becomes blocked, stuck or slows down, you feel less energetic, easily stressed and more susceptible to disease. When this energy is flowing with no obstructions, you feel strong, healthy and relaxed.

The same applies to animals.

Reiki originated in Japan and was taught and practiced

by Mikao Usui in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

It is now taught all over the world as a system of heal-

ing for both humans and animals. Anyone can learn to give Reiki. All you need to do is take a class from a Reiki Master Teacher.

Animals love Reiki healing energy. There is no issue or condition that Reiki cannot help, although it is important to note that it is not a cure-all. Reiki will support the animal in the way he needs the most, always working for his highest good. Reiki is never a substitute for good veterinary care, but it does complement all forms of veterinary medicine.

Merry accepts healing I sat on the sofa, trying not to disturb Merry too much.

The sun was low in the sky, casting a soft light into the room. I sat with her in the stillness and took some deep breaths. Merry was checking me out, wondering what my agenda was. With my hands in my lap, I began the flow of Reiki. Merry looked up at me and sighed. She was snuggled in a fleece cat bed that was barely big enough for her to curl up in. She would use the walls of her bed to “walk” on when she wanted to change her position.

As we sat in silence, I asked Merry how she had been feeling since the surgery that removed her cancerous breasts. I am a survivor, she announced. Don’t I look great to you? I am so much more than the cancer. I wish they would all stop introducing me as the cat with cancer. I don’t have cancer. I feel so much better. They need to learn to focus on the positive things in life and not dwell on my past. I told Merry I understood what she was saying. I knew I was in the presence of a very wise soul.

The Reiki energy became even more intense here than it had been on the rest of her body.

Merry gave me permission to place my hands on her body.

I placed one on her hip and another on her shoulders. She soaked in the Reiki. She began to purr and bliss out as her eyes closed. She moved several times in her bed, then rolled on her back. I heard her say, It is time for you to place your hands here. I gently placed one hand on her heart and the other close by; this was the area that had been filled with cancer. The Reiki energy became even more intense here than it had been on the rest of her body. It was like placing my hands on a little heating pad.

I knew I was in the presence of a very wise soul.

After awhile, I felt a sharp pain. Merry had bitten me to let me know she was done. The session was over. She got up and walked away, but not before she turned and said, Thank you for listening to me. Not many people have actually taken the time to listen to what I have to offer. Thank you for respecting my wishes and for understanding that I am cancer-free.

I have work to do here. I am the greeter of this shelter. Tell the staff they need not fear my demise. I will be around for a long time to come.

I thanked Merry for allowing me to share Reiki energy with her. I talked to the office manager and shared some of what Merry had told me.

Two years later, Merry is still the office kitty and shelter greeter. There’s something very special about her. This wise teacher taught me so much in the short time we were together.

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feline wellness

73

It’s playtime!

Daily interactive play is a great way to help keep your feline fit, svelte and content.

by Sara Jackson

I

f you’re like most cat lovers, you probably buy all kinds of toys for your kitty, only to discover that he quickly loses interest in them after a few days or sometimes even a few hours. The fact is, cats are hunters by nature, and therefore tend to be more attracted to moving targets. A toy mouse that just lies there isn’t

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nearly as much fun as a live one that’s running around the house. This means you need to make the toy one move now and then so your cat will chase it! In short, regular interactive play is a big part of keeping your cat fit, happy, stimulated and well-behaved, especially if he spends most of his time indoors.

Start early The need for play begins at a young age. “A kitten’s job is to sharpen his hunting skills,” says cat behavior specialist Mieshelle Nagelschneider. “There is no way around this! If kittens don’t have the appropriate outlets for play, they may choose less appropriate targets to hone these skills on. They might start attacking their owner’s ankles or sneaking up on another cat or dog in the household to pounce on and bite.”

“Let the cat catch the toy over and over again, but do your best not to make it too easy to catch, nor too difficult.”

Mieshelle adds that interactive play with a kitten should begin as soon as possible after you adopt him. This not only helps get his development on the right track, but also alleviates any stress or fear he might be experiencing as he adjusts to his new environment. Cats are very prone to stress, and will often act out as a result. They might start going outside the litter box, meowing excessively, scratching and chewing furniture and even spraying the walls.

Daily interactive play can help prevent this. “Cats cannot feel fear while displaying animated play,” says Mieshelle. “These two mood states are independently controlled.”

Regular play builds up confidence and trust in a fearful cat.

Prey and predator Playing with your cat or kitten isn’t just about dragging a string across the floor or waving a feathered stick in the air. It’s about using the toy to mimic the behavior of his natural prey so his stalking and hunting instincts are stimulated. feline wellness

75

It’s about using the toy to mimic the behavior of his natural prey so his stalking and hunting instincts are stimulated.

Observe your cat’s behavior when he’s playing. Does he like to pounce or fling himself from high places, or jump out at things from under a bed or behind a chair? If the former, try making the toy act like a bird in flight; if the latter, make the toy behave like a mouse scurrying for cover. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in one approach, try another.

“You should also try and focus on giving your cat a mental challenge, rather than just trying to wear him out physically,” adds Mieshelle. “Part of the hunt for a cat is about strategizing and being stealthy. You can wear any cat out physically, but he may not be fully satisfied if he was not mentally challenged. For example, you can help a cat think more by hiding the end of a wand attachment [e.g. feathers] round the corner of a sofa or inside an empty

box for a few moments. “Let the cat catch the toy over and over again, but do your best not to make it too easy to catch, nor too difficult,” Mieshelle advises.

Cats in the wild hunt between seven and 17 times a day. Domestic housecats may need between one and three interactive playtimes every day, depending on their drive to hunt. Schedule play sessions during times of the day when your cat is most active, and stick to those times to help your kitty anticipate and look forward to them.

Depending on your cat’s age, he’ll decide how long playtimes should last. Some cats will play as long as 15 to 20 minutes, while others may prefer shorter, more frequent games. End each play session by letting your cat catch his “prey”, then afterwards, put the toy away and out of his reach. If the toy is always out, he may quickly become disinterested in it. Rotating toys is also a great way to keep playtimes fresh and interesting for your cat. Immediately after play, offer verbal praise and a few healthy treats.

Avoiding aggression Never use your hands or feet while playing with your cat; it might make him think it’s okay to “attack” and bite them (and the hands and feet of other people) any time he wants. Nor should you ever roughhouse with a cat like you would a dog, and that includes games of tug-o-war.

You could turn your cat against playing with you and/or cause unwanted aggression later on.

Scheduling regular interactive play sessions with your cat will help him associate you with fun and companionship, and not just as someone who dispenses food once or twice a day. “Some people think cats are low maintenance and can take care of themselves in many areas, including play,” says Mieshelle. “This is the reason they don’t initiate play with their cats.” It may also be the reason a lot of people think cats are aloof or standoffish. Making time every day to play with your cat will not only help keep him from getting bored, stressed or overweight…it’s also fun, relaxing, and will create a wonderful and lasting bond between you.

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feline wellness

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with the release of their Greyhound Edition Power Paws.

The original Power Paws fit the square shape of most dogs’ feet, but hare-footed canines like greyhounds and poodles require a different solution. Greyhound Edition is customized for the long, narrow shape of these dogs’ paws. The new product fits 80% to 85% of greyhounds and standard poodles, with additional sizes in the works.

Ideal for winter walking. woodrowwear.com

Many dogs can’t tolerate grains. Evanger’s Pet Food Company introduces a new Grain Free Chicken formula for dogs. It boasts fresh de-boned chicken as its first ingredient, and contains pumpkin and sweet potato, which are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins C and B6, manganese and fiber. The food also contains probiotics to support healthy immunity and digestion, as well as flaxseed and omegas-3 and 6 for healthy joints, skin and coat. evangersdogfood.com

New design, same quality The Big Bad Woof has opened a new store at the Hyattsville Arts District in Hyattsville, Maryland.

Specializing in high quality pet foods, supplements and supplies, the company has introduced some new diets and treats as well as a new store design that incorporates green building details. For example, the wood used in the store’s displays are made from a mix of reclaimed red and white oak, while the ceramic tile floor features partially recycled contents. All Big Bad Woof’s stores are Certified B Corporations. thebigbadwoof.com

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Adopt a shelter Today’s tough economic climate has resulted in a lot of animals being surrendered to shelters that are already struggling to stay afloat. AdoptAShelter.com is a new website that aims to help shelters care for the growing number of animals in their care. Every time a purchase is made through the website, at any one of over 400 top-name online stores, 100% of the amount displayed is donated to the animal organization or shelter of your choice.

Stem cell therapy Stem cell therapy is proving an effective solution for dogs with torn ligaments or complications from arthritis. Veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford of the Essex Animal Hospital in Ontario, Canada says her practice is now offering stem cell therapy as part of its rehabilitation treatment services. “This is a real breakthrough,” says Dr. Huntingford. “We tend to get a lot of animals that have exhausted their conventional medical options. We have saved and rehabilitated many animals that otherwise were going to be put down.” essexanimalhospital.ca

Best places to work The Honest Kitchen recently appeared on Outside Magazine’s “Best Places to Work” list, ranking 37 out of 50 companies. The “Best Places to Work” project celebrates innovative companies that are setting a new standard for a healthy work-life balance. All employees at The Honest Kitchen’s corporate office in San Diego have access to a flexible working schedule as well as yoga, pilates and cardio classes at a neighboring fitness center. The office is dog friendly and perks include compensation for annual checkups, an allowance of free pet food, and encouragement to take daily group walking breaks. thehonestkitchen.com

All in a day’s work

Economic euthanasia When people can’t afford a vet, they delay attending to symptoms until their animal requires expensive treatments even further beyond their means. Sadly, this often results in the animal being euthanized.

Veterinarian Lori Pasternak of Helping Hands Affordable Veterinary Surgery and Dental Care (helpinghandsvetva. com) offers three tips for avoiding this situation.

1. Healthcare plans – Many clinics offer healthcare plans where you pay a nominal monthly fee entitling you to a number of free checkups.

2. Preventive dental cleanings – Keeping teeth and gums clean helps prevent infection and expensive dental work.

3. Pet your animal often – It will help you catch bumps or lumps that could indicate disease.

Detection dogs are in big demand. The American Kennel Club has named the top five detection jobs canines do, and some of the breeds that excel at each: 1. Bed bug sniffing – beagle, Labrador retriever 2. Search and rescue – German shepherd, Labrador and golden retrievers, bloodhound 3. Explosives detection – German shepherd, Belgian malinois, Vizsla 4. Cancer detection – Labrador retriever 5. Allergy alert – poodle, golden retriever, Portuguese water dog

A law enforcement dog does a detection demo. animal wellness

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TryTui Na

This powerful form of bodywork has its roots in ancient China. It’s a simple but effective way to help alleviate a wide range of health issues.

by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

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ou may not have heard of it before, but Tui Na is a primary healing therapy that originated in China thousands of years ago and is still in use today. Often pronounced “twee na”, it’s the original Chinese meridian massage. It’s making its way into the West because it’s a powerful form of bodywork and an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – and modern conventional medicine is beginning to acknowledge the benefits and wisdom of traditional medicine for both humans and animals.

Tui Na can be translated as “push-grasp”. Though there have been many schools of Tui Na over the centuries, there are basic hand techniques that are in continuous use today.

These techniques are incorporated into a therapeutic series of pressing, tapping, kneading, grasping, knocking and passive manipulation. In the West, we use these Tui Na techniques in the performance of acupressure massage.

As in all forms of ancient Chinese medicine, the purpose of Tui Na is to maintain or restore the harmonious flow of life-promoting energy (chi, qi or ki), and blood. When chi and blood are flowing harmoniously throughout the body, it can resist pathogens and support health.

These hand techniques have been used in China with animals ever since livestock became essential to survival.

Their existence was – and still is, to some degree – dependent on the need for animals for agriculture, military activities and transportation. And until quite recently, dogs and cats were used to protect temples and other sacred places.

How it works Through thousands of years of clinical observation, Chinese medicine practitioners determined that there are energetic

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Tui Na is used to maintain a healthy flow of blood and chi through the animal’s body.

pathways or channels called “meridians” that run through the body, nourishing and connecting the internal organs with the tissues and extremities. Nutrient-rich blood and chi need to pass freely and consistently through these meridians to support all the body’s systems and activities.

Whenever there is a blockage, stagnation or breakdown in the continuous flow of chi and blood, the body becomes imbalanced and can’t function properly. The longer the animal remains unbalanced, the more likely his health will become compromised. For example, what begins as a tight muscle, in which the flow of blood and chi is cut off through restriction, can lead to more pronounced lameness and potential immobility.

TCM is best used as a resource for preventing illness and injury by maintaining the energetic and nutrient supply to the entire body. If there’s an imbalance, dealing with it as soon as possible keeps it from going deeper into the body and creating ill health.

What Tui Na can and cannot do Tui Na is a highly effective form of bodywork based on

TCM. The hand techniques help promote the flow of chi and blood through the meridian system that feeds and energizes the animal’s body. Tui Na is known to address an extensive array of health issues, including: • Muscle, tendon, ligament and other skeletal conditions • Aging issues such as arthritis, loss of vitality, weakness and joint stiffness • Respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive and immune system disorders • It can also enhance mental focus, sensory acuity and help create a general sense of well-being.

There are some situations and conditions in which Tui Na is not recommended: • If the animal is frail • During pregnancy • If the animal has an infectious disease • Immediately after a large meal • When undiagnosed masses are present • On or around skin eruptions or bleeding

Try this technique It can take years of practice to perfect Tui Na techniques, but everyone has to start somewhere. The technique commonly used in animal acupressure on specific “acupoints” (pools along a median where chi and blood can be influenced) is called Yi zhi chan tui fa or “one-finger meditation”. This technique stimulates the energetic action the particular acupoint is known to affect.

For example, by performing Yi zhi chan tui fa on the acupoint known as Stomach 36 (St36), the flow of chi and blood to the animal’s digestive tract will be enhanced.

St 36 is also used to stimulate vitality and boost the immune system (see diagram on next page).

Tui Na is known to address an extensive array of health issues, including muscle, tendon, ligament and other skeletal conditions.

To perform Yi zhi chan tui fa, make a loose fist with your thumb extended down. Gently press with the soft, fleshy portion of the tip of your thumb on the acupoint you have selected from the chart (descriptions for each are on next page). Focus on the acupoint and its therapeutic value while relaxing your shoulder and elbow. Your other hand can rest comfortably on the animal to maintain connection.

Now, rhythmically oscillate your arm while your thumb remains focused on the acupoint. Make the movement as slow as needed to create an even oscillation; the intention is to create a vibratory frequency that can stimulate the energetic activity of the acupoint. Stay on the acupoint you have selected for approximately two to three minutes.

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Practice your technique on a firm pillow or other forgiving surface before applying Yi zhi chan tui fa directly to your animal.

Acupoints for session The acupoints presented in the chart have specific actions within the animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body. Each is known to affect the body in a particular way.

Stomach 36 (St 36) benefits the digestive tract, promotes vitality and enhances the immune system.

Bai Hui Point is a classic point known to encourage the flow of chi and blood to the hindquarters and back. It can help with lameness, hip joint issues and arthritis.

The added benefit of the Bai Hui Point is that most animals love it!

Conception Vessel 17 (CV 17) benefits any respiratory disorder and can be effective for reducing anxiety. It is best to perform Yi zhi chan tui fa on CV 17 when the animal is lying down or on his back.

Spleen 6 (Sp 6) has influence over the urogenital system and rear portion of the abdomen. It is used for urinary tract infections, incontinence or retention of urine, regulating the estrus cycle and lower back pain.

Take time to practice the Yi zhi chan tui fa technique â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the more proficient you are, the more effective your Tui Na acupressure session will be. The rhythmic vibration is essential to the stimulation of the acupoints.

Tui Na is a wonderful modality to share with your companion. It can help soothe aches and pains, calm his spirits, and enhance his wellness.

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communication A journey

with Jiggs All animals are special, but once or twice in a lifetime, we encounter one who seems exceptionally unique. Here’s how a wise golden retriever helped me realize my life’s purpose.

by Lynn McKenzie

Jiggs’ influence changed the direction of the author’s life.

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n the day I picked up my little bundle of joy, I had no inkling that the direction of my life would change, dramatically and quickly. Jiggs, the pick of his large litter, was a nine-week-old golden retriever. He was a sweet puppy but had strong opinions and a definite “mind of his own”. It was very clear from the start that he was not at all like other dogs. He was so independent that he barely noticed when I left him alone to go out to work or run an errand – certainly not normal puppy behavior!

Just a few weeks after Jiggs arrived, he became sick, and no matter how much we tried to help him with conventional veterinary medicine, he couldn’t seem to shake it.

That was in the early 1990s when holistic veterinarians were few and far between in my area. Being a devoted user of natural and holistic methods for myself, I knew I had to find a way to use them to help Jiggs. Once I did,

things turned around quickly. Little did I know this was the start of something big for me.

They likened it to being in the presence of a great master.

After witnessing the incredible improvements in Jiggs, clients in my budding healing and psychotherapy practice for humans started asking me to work with their animal companions. Almost overnight, a new career path was born and it took off like a greyhound. I never dreamed I would be doing animal communication and healing and I certainly had no concept of how far this journey would take me. Jiggs entered this world as a wise old soul – a animal wellness

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soul who came to teach humanity profound lessons – and he’d targeted me as his conduit. I felt as if I was just “along for the ride”.

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I was drawn to learning everything I could about animal healing and interspecies telepathic communication, and to finding ways to adapt the healing modalities I already knew so I could use them with animals. The results were very rewarding. In hindsight, I realized it was Jiggs who nudged me in this direction; it seemed to be his life’s purpose to lead me in the direction of my soul’s divine mission. I couldn’t be happier. It was as if we’d made a pact prior to materializing in our physical bodies, and we were fulfilling it now.

I began teaching workshops, which over the years led to teleclasses so students from all over the world could participate. Jiggs made it very clear to me that he was at the core of this work; he was like a guide who helped me communicate with and heal my clients’ animals.

He inspired and helped me develop course material and

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Jiggs as a puppy.

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He would lick the carpet during the part of the session when energy was releasing, and stop the moment it was complete. content, and became an energetic helper to my students.

Upon seeing Jiggs’ picture, students felt an instant resonance and familiarity with him, and that made their learning and practice work easier. It was almost as if they were given special attunements or initiations once they were introduced to him. Jiggs also had a strong presence that was rarely missed by those he came into physical contact with. Students in my earlier in-person workshops, who got to meet him, felt forever changed. They likened it to being in the presence of a great master.

Through animal communication sessions, Jiggs has shared his wisdom and guidance with both myself and others, yielding beneficial information relating to many aspects of life. His specialty is fresh new ideas for everything from business to health and relationships. I have taught my students to call on him often for assistance.

Jiggs was also an amazing and intuitive healer. In the early years when I was still conducting in-person sessions for people at my home, Jiggs would immediately take up a position underneath the massage table when a client arrived. It was as if no session was to be conducted without him. I began to notice that he was completely tuned in to what was happening on the table. He would lick the carpet during the part of the session when energy was releasing, and stop the moment it was complete.

When I transitioned to distance work over the phone, Jiggs continued his ritual of clearing energy for clients, both human and animal. Even though they were not present, he would start and stop licking the carpet at exactly the right times.

Jiggs made his transition to the spirit world four years ago at the ripe old age of 14½, but he continues to teach me many important lessons that I share with my students and clients. I credit him with directing me to my life’s purpose, and teaching me that animals are often the catalyst for guiding others to their own paths.

Through communication sessions, he now helps me “translate” this information for clients from their animal companions. I am forever grateful to my beautiful golden boy. animal wellness

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passion for pugs

Sophia is the mascot for Curly Tail Pug Rescue.

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This unique rescue group keeps curly tails wagging, while aiming to change the way people look at animals.

by Barbara Nefer

Actor Robin Williams adopted Flannery from the rescue.

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ith their jaunty tails and perpetual smiles, pugs are one of the jolliest-looking canine breeds.

Despite their whimsical looks, however, they run into the same troubles as a lot of other dogs. Many are bred in puppy mills, and some end up being abused, neglected or abandoned.

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Ironically, Drea did not start out as a pug fan, although she has always loved dogs. “I have volunteered and been involved with animals and rescues since I was a child,” she says. “To me, a dog always meant mixes and mutts picked from the shelter. I never knew what a pug was until I was given one as a gift at the age of 27.”

But they have a heroine. For the past three years, Drea Peters has been saving and re-homing unwanted pugs through her non-profit organization, Curly Tail Pug Rescue (curlytailpugrescue.org).

Drea’s true journey as a pug rescuer began while she was volunteering with another breed-specific rescue group.

She found out that even purebreds are not immune from problems like homelessness, neglect and abuse. “I also learned

animal wellness

in great detail about the horrid conditions at puppy mills and their correlation to pet store puppies, about congenital defects and issues with the various types of breeding, and so on. But I also learned about the intensity with which people love certain breeds and the lengths they will go to support them.”

Saving Sophia In the summer of 2008, Drea began caring for an unwanted pug puppy that had been born with spina bifida, leaving her hind legs paralyzed. Drea christened the pup Sophia and plunged headlong into raising funds for her medical care. She ignored vets who advised that euthanasia was the only viable option.

Saving Sophia was both grueling and gratifying, and Drea’s work subsequently blossomed into Curly Tail Pug Rescue. As the rescue’s main inspiration, Sophia also became its mascot.

The little dog’s story is a symbol of everything Drea aims to accomplish. “Her fiery soul, will to live, unconditional love and heart to fight – her whole story from start to present embodies the organization’s goals and overall spirit of our volunteers,” she explains.

Heart and soul Puppy mill rescues are a big part of Curly Tail’s work, but the organization also takes in sick or unwanted pugs saved from just

about any situation. The dogs are fostered by loving volunteers, rehabilitated with whatever care is necessary, and placed into permanent homes. The organization works primarily with people in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, but it also accepts dogs from across the country. Local adoptions ensure that placements can be easily monitored.

Although most of Curly Tail Rescue’s pugs find new adoptive families, some carry a bit too much baggage to be easily placed.

Since no dog is ever euthanized unless it has no quality of life, these special cases go into permanent foster care.

Along with Drea, the group’s volunteers are the heart and soul of Curly Tail Pug Rescue. No one receives a salary; the rescue is funded entirely by donations, and payment is the satisfaction that comes from transforming the lives of both needy pugs and adoptive animal parents. All donations go to pay for dog food, supplies, the sometimes extensive veterinary care needed to rehab the pugs – and to education.

Reaching for change The group’s R.E.A.C.H program is at the core of its efforts.

The acronym stands for Rescue, Education, Activism, Change and Hope. “We rescue pugs in need and strive to educate the public about the pet population control problem

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Puppy mill rescues are a big part of Curly Tail’s work, but the organization also takes in sick or unwanted pugs saved from just about any situation. and its simple solutions,” Drea says. In fact, she sees Curly Tail Pug Rescue as part of a much bigger effort.

“The goal is to bring awareness of the sources of animal abuse, irresponsible breeding and neglect. We act as animal advocates to effect change regarding domestic animal population control. We pledge our unwavering commitment to help end puppy mills, and we work together in harmony to bring hope where there once was none.”

The application came from California, much further afield than Drea would normally allow one of her rescues to go, but she quickly agreed when she found out who it was from – actor and dog lover Robin Williams! Pugs are popular on the big screen in movies like Milo and Otis and the Men in Black series, but in this case, Flannery lets his guardian do all the acting. The pup whose mom barely survived, and whose own survival once hung by a thread, is now a pampered celebrity pet in San Francisco.

Flannery’s rise to stardom

Many other pugs also have happy endings thanks to Curly Tail, including mascot Sophia, who is now three years old and thriving. After surgery and extensive veterinary care, she wheels around happily with a cart to support her hind legs, and serves as an inspiration that there is always hope, even in the bleakest situations.

Drea has many heartwarming success stories to share, but the one about a little pug named Flannery is perhaps the best. His mother, Clementine, was rescued from a puppy mill. Drea had no idea that the long-suffering dog was pregnant. Clementine gave birth to a litter while in the rescue’s care, but only one puppy had the strength to survive.

Named Flannery, the pup had his own health problems and required medical care and 24-hour monitoring during the first eight weeks of his life. Drea and other volunteers made sure the plucky youngster had the attention he required. Flannery pulled through, and the group soon got a request to adopt him.

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As much as the organization loves pugs, its aims encompass more than just helping a single breed. “We see ourselves as part of a kindness revolution that transforms the way people relate to animals, nature and each other,” Drea says. “In the spirit of giving, we hope to make change and create a ripple effect that goes beyond what even we can see in our day-to-day rescue lives.”

anxiety busters

Special advertising feature

Stress and tension can be as much an issue for dogs as for humans.

Forget the canine Prozac -- here are some gentle and natural ways to calm your canine’s fears.

by Ann Brightman

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alerie was delighted with her new canine companion, a young beagle cross she dubbed Mitch. But her delight turned to dismay one day when she came home from a longer-than-usual shopping trip, and found that Mitch had torn up a sofa cushion and scratched the paint on the front door.

Fearing she’d adopted a destructive dog, Valerie contacted her veterinarian, who told her Mitch’s behavior probably stemmed from separation anxiety. The vet recommended a couple of medications that would help Mitch stay calm when Valerie had to be away from home, but she balked at the idea of giving her new companion drugs. animal wellness

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Just like us, dogs are prone to stress. It can manifest in a variety of ways, from separation anxiety and destructiveness to phobias, house soiling and even fear aggression.

Often mistaken for “bad” behaviors, symptoms of stress and anxiety often lead people to surrender their dogs to shelters, when all these animals really need is a little understanding and help.

The root of the problem If your dog exhibits any of the above behaviors, the first step, as always, is to take him to the vet to ensure they aren’t being caused by a physical problem. Pain and illness can cause a dog to “act out”.

Once you have ensured your dog isn’t suffering from a physical problem, the next step is to try and determine what is causing him to feel tense and fearful. It could be a move, the loss of a household member (human or animal), or a change in your schedule that has disrupted your dog’s routine and/or requires you to be away from home more than usual. The holiday season can often be a source of stress for dogs. Even seemingly minor changes, such as home decorating or a new dog next door, may cause stress reactions in a sensitive canine, while loud noises like fireworks and thunder can trigger phobias.

Either eliminate the stressor or reduce your dog’s exposure to it. If that isn’t possible, as in the case of a death, a move or a new job or relationship, there are a variety of ways you can help your dog feel better without resorting to anti-anxiety meds. A regular routine, lots of TLC, new toys and exercise can all help. But be sure to also consider one or more of the following eight remedies or modalities.

Paths to peace

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1

Flower remedies – These vibrational healing remedies are among the simplest and most effective ways to help calm an anxious dog. Bach’s Rescue Remedy is a good place to start, while individual remedies such as Aspen, Mimulus, Heather, Honeysuckle and Walnut may all help, depending on the dog’s situation. For example, Walnut is good for helping dogs adapt to change, while Mimulus eases phobias and fears of

animal wellness

Reiki can help with a range of problems, including anxiety and stress, by balancing the body and infusing it with positive, relaxing energy. vet visits. Some companies, such as Azmira, have created flower remedy formulations that address specific issues, like fear, neediness or abandonment. Flower remedies can be added to your dog’s water, or you can rub them on his ears, paw pads or coat. They’re safe and non-toxic.

2

Aromatherapy – Essential oils are another excellent tool for stress and anxiety relief. Lavender is always a good standby to have on hand, and geranium, tangerine, bergamot and marjoram can also have a calming effect, says Vicki Thorne of Earth Heart Inc., which offers several aromatherapy products for dogs.

It is accepted practice to dilute essential oils before use to avoid problems such as skin irritation or overwhelming the sense of smell. This is especially important with remedies for dogs, because they have a more acute sense of smell than humans.

As with flower essences, you can buy the individual oils, or purchase products made from a combination of oils to target specific anxiety-related issues. Buy only pure, high quality products, and remember to always dilute the oils before using them with your dog. Vicki advises using a car or room diffuser or placing one drop of the oil on a blanket or bandana.

3

Massage – If you’ve ever had a massage, you know firsthand how relaxing it can be. Dogs can also benefit from the healing qualities of massage.

Done properly, massage loosens tight muscles, eases anxiety and depression, and releases endorphins into the body. Not only that, but most dogs find the physical contact that a gentle massage offers to be calming and enjoyable. Any form of loving touch enhances the bond between you, soothes the dog and deepens his trust and confidence. Simply rhythmically stroking or petting your dog is a good place to start, but you can also learn to do

Photo: © Tallgrass Publishers | animalacupressure.com

Holiday tcanr put a va elotl sof stress on your pet,

whether they come along or stay behind. Herbsmith Calm Shen works naturally to help maintain calmness and balance behavior in your pet during separation, travel, storms or changes in their daily routine.

canine massage through companies like PetMassage, Ltd., which offers workshops and distance learning courses as well as books and videos on the topic.

4

Reiki – This simple but wonderfully effective modality involves channeling universal healing or life force energy through your hands into the dog’s body. Reiki can help with a range of problems, including anxiety and stress, by balancing the body and infusing it with positive, relaxing energy. Anyone can learn to do Reiki, but you need to be attuned to its energies so you can channel them effectively, so it involves taking a course from a Reiki Master. Alternatively, you can find Reiki practitioners who specialize in helping dogs and other animals.

According to Reiki practitioner and animal communicator Janet Dobbs, a Reiki session can last from ten minutes to an hour, depending on the animal, during which he is free to move around or away from the energy as he chooses.

5

Acupressure – Generally speaking, acupressure is something like acupuncture without needles. It’s an ancient healing modality from Traditional Chinese Medicine. The body possesses energetic pathways called meridians that help with the circulation of chi (life force) and blood, and the functioning of organs. By stimulating certain acupoints on both sides of the body along these meridians, using light pressure from the tip of your thumb and holding for a slow count of 30, you can remove blockages that might be interfering with the flow of chi and blood and causing ill health, whether physical or emotional. The following acupoints on a dog’s body can be stimulated to help relieve anxiety, according to Amy Snow of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute: “Yin Tang – located on the dorsal midline, between the eyes Bai Hui – Located on the dorsal midline, at the lumbosacral space

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Lavender

nervous or stressed dogs. Before giving herbs to your dog, it’s a good idea to consult a holistic or integrative veterinarian for information about their correct use and dosage.

7

Ht 7 – Found above the transverse crease of the carpal joint, in the large depression on the lateral side of the foreleg.”

6

Herbs – Both Western and Chinese herbs can be helpful in alleviating stress and anxiety in dogs.

For example, Western herbs that have a calming effect include chamomile, St. John’s wort, valerian and skullcap. Herbsmith, meanwhile, offers a line of Chinese herbal blends for animals, including one for calming

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Crystals – They may look inert, but crystals emit healing vibrations that can have a soothing effect, especially on animals, which tend to be more sensitive to subtle energies than humans are. Different stones and crystals emit different frequencies, depending on their mineral composition, color, and where and how they were formed. Crystals that can help calm a tense or anxious dog include amethyst, Amazonite, chrysoprase, lepidolite, tiger’s eye, bloodstone and turquoise. Small tumbled versions of these stones can be found inexpensively at metaphysical stores or gem shows; they can be placed near your dog’s sleeping area, or even sewn into bedding. (Just don’t give them to your dog to play with as he might swallow them.)

Crystals and stones can also be incorporated into collars that the dog can wear, as is the case with Emerald Halo, a company that offers a selection of crystal collars for grounding and healing.

Companies and resources Acupressure Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute, animalacupressure.com

Animal communication Sue Becker, suebecker.net Lynn McKenzie, animalenergy.com Carol Schultz, carolschultz.com

Aromatherapy

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Animal communication – Talking over a problem with a trusted friend or family member helps you feel better about it. So why wouldn’t it be the same for your dog? Because humans and canines don’t speak the same language, it’s often hard to understand what’s making a dog anxious, or what you should do to help him.

A professional animal communicator can help get to the root of the issue by tapping into a dog’s thoughts, feelings, memories and impressions, and asking questions about why he’s feeling scared, nervous or stressed. You can develop your own animal communication skills by taking one of the growing number of courses and workshops being offered by communicators and intuitives such as Carol Schultz, Sue Becker and Lynn McKenzie.

Earth Heart Inc., earthheartinc.com

Crystals Emerald Halo, emeraldhalo.com

Flower remedies Azmira, azmira.com Bach Original Flower Remedies, nelsonsnaturalworld.com

Herbs Herbsmith Inc., herbsmithinc.com

Massage PetMassage Ltd., petmassage.com

Reiki Janet Dobbs, AnimalParadiseCommunication.com Kathleen Prasad, animalreikisource.com Peace-by-Peace, peacebypeace.net

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passages Rest easy, sweet

Bales

by Sharon Mattos

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pril 2, 2011, is a day I will never forget. It was the day we had to say goodbye to Bailey. He was 14 years, one month and one week old. But I also never want to forget his life with us, and how much he loved – and was loved by – not only our family, but everyone who knew him.

I happened to be the lucky one he devoted every waking minute to. Even when he was sleeping, he would often lift his head to make sure I was near – just checking. When he was young, he spent a lot of time with my son Aaron and his friends, sometimes being the “monkey in the middle” and sometimes just enjoying the outdoors, lying on the lawn while the boys played together. Everyone in the neighborhood knew and liked Bailey. They depended on him to bark for attention when they walked by and, being such a “people pleaser”, he would always come through for them.

Bailey’s level of obedience was astounding, with the occasional right to forgo all manners – for example, when on vacation at the Cape with family, or at the vet’s office where the desk gals would let him jump up and rest his front paws on the countertop for a treat or affection. But at home, I could walk out of the house, leaving the trash bag open (and I have done that) and he would never disturb anything – ever. He would merely wait for the front door to open again.

That was the cue to meet us with a toy in his mouth, tail wagging, eyes bright, and happier to see us than any human could possibly be.

The ultimate test As a family, we vowed to never be selfish when it came to Bailey’s comfort and happiness. April 2 was to be our

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ultimate test of unselfishness and love. After many days and months of hand-feeding Bailey, massaging him, and often helping him to a standing position, he still showed he had some “spice” left in him. But as time passed, even that diminished. Instead of walking with his head up, tail raised and wagging, he now walked with his head down and tail low, leading with his nose since he could no longer rely on his sight and hearing.

After much soul-searching, we decided as a family that it was time to say farewell to Bailey. We gathered together hugging, crying and hovering around Bailey, each of us saying goodbye in our own way. Yet Old Bales? He was cool as a cucumber.

Bailey says goodbye Bailey rose, and instead of walking to the back door to go out as usual, he walked to the kitchen drawer where his leash was kept. Despite his ailments, how could I deny him one last walk? So off we went.

On this particular day, Bailey designed a route of his own.

He didn’t stay on the sidewalk. Instead, he led me to the doorsteps of neighbors who had animals of their own. Was he saying goodbye? I don’t know, but dogs tend to sense things we can’t, so maybe he was following through with some master plan of his own.

My father came over to say goodbye to his old pal – they had bonded strongly over the years. We all played, petted and cuddled with him. Old Bales was in his glory, in full control, as if he had written the script himself. Maybe he had.

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Our last moments together I chose to go alone with him to the veterinary hospital. During the ride, Bailey mustered up the strength to prop himself into a half-seated position. It was a beautiful day. The cool breeze blew in, massaging his furry body, and with all the activity going on outside, he wanted to be sure to capture all he could. So there he was, taking it all in – visibly calm and happy. I reached back to pat him and he licked my hand. We were making the most of our last time together – “living in the moment” thanks to Bailey, my greatest teacher.

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Bailey walked into the vet’s office as if he was home. We were led to a private room and given time alone. Bailey and I plopped ourselves down on his bed, which I had brought with me. I told him stories he had heard at least a million times before, and he was quite relaxed and content.

Before the end, I asked for some of Bailey’s hair, so we shaved a few of his locks and put them in a bag. We also took a paw print from a clay kit they had at the clinic. Bailey`s passing was painless and peaceful, but my heart ached terribly as I bowed my head into the scruff of his neck for the last time.

I drove home with the back windows open, as if Bailey was still there enjoying the fresh air. And I thought back to something the vet had said: “It is the most difficult decision to make, and the hardest thing to do. But, our animals depend on us to make that decision for them.”

Months later, we all still feel Bailey’s presence and we hope that continues for a very long time.

www.leispet.com 1-800-665-2139

Rest easy, Sweet Bales. And thanks for the memories! animal wellness

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Book reviews Title: Dogs

ancient wisdom modern solutions Dr. Rose’s Remedies Skin Treatment is an all-natural herbal salve that promotes rapid and complete healing of skin ailments. It can be used on a wide variety of animals including dogs, cats, and horses. ÝÛ?]YdkÛogmf\k ÛZmjfk ÛZjmak]kÛ and lacerations ÝÛ?]dhkÛkh]]\Û`]Ydaf_Ûg^Û surgical wounds ÝÛI]da]n]kÛafyÛYeeYlagfÛYf\ÛajjalYlagfÛ associated with inter-digital infection ÝI]da]n]kÛal[`qÛkcaf ÝDgaklmjar]kÛkcaf ÝKj]YlkÛjYafÛjgl ÝKj]YlkÛ`glÛkhglkÛÛ 610-558-4610 | drrosesremedies.com tony@drrosesremedies.com

Make Us Human

Author: Jeffrey

Moussaieff Masson & Art Wolfe

Wildlife photographer Art Wolfe began photographing people and their dogs in 1984 after visiting Tibet for the first time. Since then, he has traveled the world from New York to Peru, Mongolia to Paris, collecting evocative images that capture the special bond shared by humans and their dogs.

Now, 100 of those photos have been brought together in Dogs Make Us Human, a gorgeous book illustrating the bond shared by people and their canine companions around the globe, from African hunting dogs to pampered Chihuahuas. The photos depict the love that cements the human-canine connection, and shows dogs and people at play, at work, or just sharing quality time together.

Celebrated animal writer Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson complements the images with his insightful understanding of this centuries-old symbiotic relationship. Profound, moving and uplifting, Dogs Make Us Human is a book you’ll look at over and over again.

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Title: The

Canine Thyroid Epidemic

Author: W. Jean

Dodds, DVM & Diana R. Laverdure

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If your dog is low on energy, losing hair, gaining weight or behaving aggressively, it could be his thyroid. In The Canine Thyroid Epidemic, veterinarian Dr. Jean Dodds and journalist Diana Laverdure take an in-depth look at thyroid disorders and how they can be prevented and treated.

Learn about the role of the thyroid gland, why it’s essential to your dog’s health, and how to recognize the clinical signs of thyroid problems. There’s also a discussion of the lab tests needed to properly diagnose thyroid disorders, the medications and supplements used for treatment, why a healthy and nutritious diet is so important, and how our toxic environment can impact your dog’s health. A chapter of case studies is included, as well as advice and tips on educating yourself and finding a holistic veterinarian.

Whether or not your dog has been diagnosed with a thyroid problem, this book will be an invaluable guide in helping you deal with the condition -- or prevent it from happening in the first place.

Publisher: Dogwise Publishing

Title: Grooming Tales Author: Jennifer Tilman If you think dog grooming is just another routine job, then you need to read Grooming Tales, a new book by certified groomer Jennifer Tilman. This humorous and light-hearted book gives you a first-hand account of the joys and challenges of being a groomer.

From Dobermans to poodles, Jennifer deals with a wide range of dogs in her business – and a wide range of situations. Read about the time one of her four-footed clients decided to defecate while she was using a high velocity drier on him, with very messy results. Or how she made friends with a hostile English springer spaniel who didn’t want to have anything to do with her. Jennifer also introduces you to many of the memorable canine characters who have come to her for bathing, clipping and pampering – from Franzi, the happy-go-lucky miniature Schnauzer, to Ike, a droll English bulldog who rewards Jennifer with kisses after his bath.

Entertaining and accessible, this readable little book is proof positive that there’s never a dull moment when you’re a groomer!

Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises, LLC

Title: The

Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Author: Shawn

Messonnier, DWM

Sooner or later, nearly every dog or cat develops some degree of arthritis. If you cringe at the thought of giving your companion meds for the rest of his life, don’t despair. Holistic veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier’s new book takes an integrative approach to arthritis treatment, including alternative as well as conventional options.

Dr. Messonnier features discussions of what arthritis is and how and why it manifests, as well as the importance of a correct diagnosis, since other diseases besides arthritis can cause lameness and pain. One chapter looks at the pros and cons of conventional treatments like corticosteroids, NSAIDS and surgery, while others cover natural therapies such as supplements, herbs, chiropractic and homeopathy.

Diet, exercise and physical therapy are also included in this well-rounded guide to arthritis treatment by a nationally recognized expert on integrative medicine.

Publisher: New World Library

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EQUINE WELLNESS

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Classifieds Animal Communicators ANIMAL HEALINGS – Animal Communication/Reiki for Animals: all species. Compassionate professional, loving support for your whole pet family, help resolve behavior problems, learn about healthcare/enrichment needs, find lost pets, end of life/grieving support. Email & phone sessions anywhere in the USA: (941) 321-8484 www.AnimalHealing.com CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide.

Share your love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults (315) 329-0116 angelwhispurr@gmail.com www.ark-angels.org 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.

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about hosting a workshop in your area. janet@animalparadisecommunication.com, (703) 648-1866 or www.animalparadisecommunication.com LOVING ANIMAL COACHING & CONVERSATIONS through End of Life situations, Missing Animals, Training & unique Personal Messages just for you. Inspiring your Brilliance to Connect & Understand your animals too.

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website to explore our services. www.holisticpetvet.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com (416) 757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7 ESSEX ANIMAL HOSPITAL, REHAB & K9 FITNESS CENTRE – Dr. Janice Huntingford practices integrative medicine for optimal pet health. Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Physical Rehab, Therapy pool and underwater treadmill, Alternative Medicine, Chinese Herbs, Holistic Consults. Please visit our website and facebook page. (519) 776-7325 Essex, ON. essexanimalhospital@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 ROCKLEDGE VETERINARY CLINIC – Thoughtful, Compassionate, Veterinary Care. Conventional Medicine & Surgery, Classical Homeopathy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Cold Laser for Arthritis, Vaccine Titers, Home Prepared Diets, Hospice. (215) 379-1677, Rockledge, PA rockledgevet@aol.com www.rockledgevet.com

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Events EH107: Intro to Energetic Scanning Instructor: Mary Baumstark Wednesday evenings (3 weeks), beginning November 30, 2011 Internationally available teleclass Identifying disturbances or congestion in an animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy field or physical body can give an animal intuitive additional information or guidance in asking pertinent questions, and in helping the pet caretaker understand a situation more fully.

For energy healing practitioners, the scanning process is an ongoing aspect of any session that provides practical information for the healing.

In this teleclass we will discuss and practice methods of tuning into, connecting with, or scanning an animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy to supplement telepathic information received from the animal.

For more information: Carol Schultz 815-531-2850 carol@animalspiritnetwork.com http://tinyurl.com/yjfuyfp Home for the Holidays pet adoption fair Saturday, December 3 Irvine Animal Care Center, 6443 Oak Canyon Road, Irvine, CA More than 500 animals await their furrever homes at this annual pet adoption event, one of the largest in Southern California. Plus vendors, FREE vet and trainer advice, low cost microchips, silent auction and more!

For more information: 949-724-7741 info@irvineshelter.org www.irvineshelter.org

Can I Really Communicate with my Animal?

Wednesday, December 14, 7-8 p.m. ET Thursday, January 5, 7-8 p.m. ET International Teleseminar Join Sue Becker for this one-hour FREE telephone seminar and discover what animal communication is all about. Is it really possible for you? What is involved?

What can you learn from them? Can anyone connect telepathically with their animal buddy, or is it a special gift? What about wild, non-domesticated species?

Get answers to these and many other questions in this fascinating class. Bring your own questions as well!

Sue Becker, BFRAP, BFRP, CTTP is an internationally known animal communicator and consultant, instructor and writer. She has worked with thousands of animals of many different species and holds recognized practitionerships in Bach Flower Remedies both for animals and humans, Tellington TTouch Method, Reconnective Healing, and has extensive training in many other physical and energy modalities.

Fore more information: Sue Becker 519-896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net www.suebecker.net Animal Teleclasses with Sue Becker Starts January 2012 International Teleclasses Are in-person workshops too far away?

Join us for internationally available telephone classes including: Introduction to Animal Communication; Animal Communication Level 1; Animal Communication Level 2; Bach Flower Remedies for Animals and Humans; Thunderstorms & Fireworks - Help For Your Dog; Mysterious, Magnificent Cats; Think Like Your Pet; Individual and Group

Mentoring; Litter Box Solutions; All About Pet Foods.

Number of weekly classes vary from one to eight, depending on the course.

Visit www.suebecker.net for more details.

Your email and telephone enquiries are welcomed.

Sue Becker, BFRAP, BFRP, CTTP is an internationally known animal communicator and consultant, instructor and writer. She has worked with thousands of animals of many different species and holds recognized practitionerships in Bach Flower Remedies both for animals and humans, Tellington TTouch Method, Reconnective Healing, and has extensive training in many other physical and energy modalities.

For more information: Sue Becker 519-896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net www.suebecker.net SH102: Connecting with Spirit (shamanic training) January 5 - January 26, 2012 (4 week series) Internationally available webinar/VOIP The Connecting with Spirits series focuses on our developing our personal relationships with our personal helping Spirits. As we do so they shift us inside, changing how we think and see, and turning us back to our source and wholeness. This webinar series is sweet and delicious, and is beneficial for all who want to expand their awareness of Spirit and their own personal connection.

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

Post your event online at: animalwellnessmagazine.com/events 104

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Tail end

The “toyivore”

by Jill Coody Smits

I surveyed the carnage. Scalped horse, beakless rubber duck, mangled farmer, dismembered dolly. It was a massacre, and the savage killer was a remorseless repeat offender who clearly took pleasure in maiming whatever hapless innocent crossed his path.

The pitiless perpetrator was Moby, our first born, fourfooted, and otherwise completely delightful child. The victims? Our daughter’s toys.

My husband and I had known about Moby’s penchant for homicidal chewing since our first encounter at the Central Texas SPCA. He was feverishly attempting to bury a bounceless, denuded tennis ball in a kiddy pool, and we fell in love immediately. Once home, our Wheatenesque pup’s obsession with destroying balls forced us to exile these particular playthings to the backyard in favor of “indoor” toys. But Moby schooled us quickly on the ways of terriers, leaving a trail of de-squeaked hamburgers, kitties and mallards in his wake.

Which leads me to our daughter, Stella, and her own bottomless stash of toys. Moby was her favorite creature even before she could focus, and “MO-e” was among her first words. Now four years old, and tragically ensconced in a one-sided love affair, Stella’s advances are met with indifference most of the time. And, like all cads in possession of the upper hand, Moby exploits her

willingness to forgive him nearly anything – including the destruction of her prized possessions.

Moby has grievously injured most of Stella’s toys, and countless have gone to the great white toy chest in the sky. Stuffed animals are his victims of choice, and not one has gone unscathed. Wooden dolls are also a favorite; from the faceless grandmother to the three-legged dog, an entire disfigured family lives in a dream house filled with mouth-marked furniture.

When the toy attacks started in Stella’s babyhood, we tried to nip them in the bud. Apple spray? Too punitive. Toy containment? Impractical. Training? Futile (translation: beyond our skill set).

Today, I can honestly say that Moby’s behavior is barely a blip on the family radar. Maybe it’s because he’s given us ten devoted years, or because terrorizing toys is his only bad habit. Or maybe it’s his gentle way with Stella, tolerating her bear hugs and tail tugs and enduring endless taunting with the ball.

On sentimental days, though, I imagine it’s deeper than that. In many ways, our Moby is big brother and only sibling to our two-legged child. He embraces his responsibility to tease her, mess with her things and teach her about the complicated ways of family. No one is perfect, after all, and we love each other despite our most annoying habits. Perhaps Moby best illustrates this in the wee, still hours of the morning, when he can sometimes be found snuggled up on Stella’s bed.

Then again, maybe he just revels in blood sport. That’s probably what the Groovy Girl I witnessed dangling from his lip by one ear would say!

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

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Take A Bite Out Of Cat And Dog Dental Troubles by: Bud Groth

Here’s an idea to chew over: You are now able to prolong your pet’s life while improving its health and breath. How? By protecting your cat or dog from oral disease.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3. Besides causing receding gums and tooth loss, the infection may enter the bloodstream, potentially infecting the heart, liver and kidneys. “Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets,” agreed Dr. Henry Childers, DVM, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

What are the symptoms indicating potential problems? Bad breath, pain around the mouth, swelling or irritation of the gums, bleeding, swelling around the jaw or nose, fever, lethargy, pain when eating, or refusal to eat.

A solution: Until recently, the only way to remove plaque and tartar has been a visit to the vet for a dental cleaning. This usually involves the use of a general anesthetic, and that can be a problem. Anesthetic reactions can cause injury and even death. Statistics indicate that over 50,000 dogs and cats die every year, and 1.3 million are injured (some permanently), just from anesthesia!

“Fortunately, we now have an additional tool in our dental tool chest,” states Dr. Joann Baldwin, DVM for 30 years at Cardinal Animal Hospital.

“Now there’s a safe and efficient way to control plaque and tartar without your pet undergoing anesthesia.”

Bud Groth is getting a licking from “Lucas,” Michael Vick’s former champion fighting dog rescued by Best Friends Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Lucas is licking away Groth’s tears, shed at the sight of the dog’s fighting scars. Groth loves pets and says, “Pet owners should be concerned if any pet product uses the statement ‘Not for human consumption.”’

“Safe and efective dental health products, like PetzLife Oral Care, are part of the missing link in holistic pet health care,” states Animal Doctor syndicated columnist Dr. Michael Fox. Used daily, PetzLife Oral Care spray or gel can help remove plaque and tartar, control bacteria and eliminate bad breath, and you don’t have to brush. The active ingredients are a blend of herbs and oils including grapefruit seed extract, a natural compound known for killing bacteria.

The ingredients are 100 percent natural and “human grade,” so they’re perfectly safe for dogs and cats. Over 1.5 million bottles have been sold without one injury or death, and are now available in over 10,000 retail stores and all PetSmarts and over 6,000 vet clinics.

PetzLIfe also produces @-Eaze Calming Support for Pets. When applied directly or mixed with foods or treats, @-Eaze works within minutes to help promote a restful relaxed state without causing reduced alertness. It helps relieve stress and anxiety in pets. In addition, the company also offers a complete line of shampoos, conditioners, aromatherapy mists, flea and tick repellent, de-wormer and low fat treats.

Made in USA

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enter 20% code: â&#x20AC;&#x153;WELLNESSâ&#x20AC;? on the first page of the checkout or call and mention code.

100% Natural, uniquely formulated with L-Theanin a natural occurring amino acid in green tea, that helps promote a restful relaxed state without causing reduced alertness.

Relieves stress and anxiety in pets.

Made in USA

Specially formulated to peak the senses without alcohol or detergents. One spray will convince you this is the finest combination fo your special pet. Great for daily refreshing, between washings and for bedding

The Miraculous healing power of Cranberry seed oil has been added to a pet shampoo combining Honey Quat, Karate & Soy into the most luxurious Shampoo available on the market.

The Healthy, low-fat Rewards for in-between meals or training. Free of unwanted additives that strain the body.

PetzLife FIT-TREATZ Fresh Chicken Snacks, contains only high-quality ingredients that are approved for human consumtion.

Flea and Tick Repellent Protectz is an herbal product that repels fleas and other biting insects, including ticks.

Does not contain any chemicals.

This combination contains herbs that aid the body to cleanse, and demulcents to help soothe the mucous membranes, thus causing no discomfort.

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