V15I3 (Jun/Jul 2013)

ANIMAL WELLNESS

AnimalWELLNESS For a long, healthy life!

10

TOP FOODS

FOR GOOD VISION

SUNNY DAYS How to protect him

Eye health advice

from those UV rays

Energy healing

Tips on building a

Why it works!

strong bond with your new dog

5 WAYS TO SOOTHE

HER FEARS

Canine CANCER

feline wellness

What homeopathy and conventional medicine have in common

Hip, cool and healthy!

emergency preparedness for kitties

JUNE/JULY Display until August 5, 2013

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Does she have a red or watery eye? One of these common disorders could be the culprit.

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VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Lessons

Lancelot from

How a street cat taught his person everything she needed to know about solving feline behaviorfelineproblems. wellness 65

BONUS INSIDE!

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Contents June/July 2013

FEATURES

50 44 80

18 BEST FOODS FOR GOOD VISION

Packed with nutrients, these colorful foods can help keep his eyes sharp by protecting against a variety of ocular problems.

22 SUNNY DAYS

A lot of people think dogs don’t need shielding from the sun’s UV rays. But sunburn and even skin cancer can occur in canines that get too much sunlight. Find out how to protect your pooch.

30 OW, MY EYE!

From punctures to lacerations, canine eye injuries occur more often than you might think.

Here are some of the most common wounds and how they’re treated.

34 MEGAN’S MENTORS This talented actress and producer credits her dog Smiley, along with her many other four-footed companions, for teaching her some important life lessons.

37 SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE

How one dog’s toxic reaction to an insecticide led to a company that specializes in natural, earth-friendly pest control products.

38 TOP 10 WAYS TO BUILD A BOND

Whether you’re adopting a puppy or adult dog, establishing a healthy connection with him from the start will help ensure a meaningful friendship.

44 IT’S ALL ABOUT ENERGY

You’ve heard the term “energy healing” but what exactly is it and why and how does it work?

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47 ALOE’S ATTRACTION It contains essential nutrients that may alleviate many chronic conditions.

50 POOCHES WITH PINK EYE

Conjunctivitis is common in humans, but dogs can also contract it. Know the symptoms, and how it can be treated.

56 CANINE CANCER – TWO VIEWS

71 IS KITTY PREPARED?

Emergencies can strike anyplace, anytime, and may mean you have to evacuate your home. Do you have a disaster plan in place for your cat?

74 CAPPUCCINO WITH CATS

Thanks to the phenomenon of “cat cafés”, Japanese feline aficionados can visit with resident kitties while relaxing with a cup of java.

80 LU PARKER

Homeopathy, along with new discoveries in conventional medicine, are coming to similar conclusions about how to more effectively treat this illness.

She wears multiple hats as a news anchor, actress and journalist, but still finds the time and energy to advocate for homeless animals.

62 FIVE WAYS TO SOOTHE FEAR

Skin allergies in his own dogs prompted this entrepreneur to develop an affordable allergy testing kit that covers almost 200 environmental and food triggers.

Poor socialization, abuse, traumatic events and even genetics can cause fear-based behaviors in a dog. You can’t undo his past, but you can help alleviate his anxiety.

66 CAT’S EYE VIEW

A look at some of the most common ocular problems in felines.

69 LESSONS FROM LANCELOT

He’s the first cat I’ve ever had – and he’s taught me all I need to know about solving feline behavior problems.

83 PASSING THE TEST

88 NETWORK FOR NEEDY DOGS

Wish you could help more dogs find loving forever homes, but don’t have the resources to be a rescuer yourself? Social media is an effective tool anyone can use to make a difference.

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COLUMNS 12 Yakkity yak 26 Rewind 48 Case study

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54 To the rescue 60 Warm & fuzzy 86 Passages 91 Book reviews 98 Tail end

DEPARTMENTS 8 Editorial 42 Product picks 76 The scoop 78 Wellness resource guide

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93 Marketplace 96 ClassiďŹ eds 97 Events Calendar

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VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3 editorial dePartMent Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social Media Manager: Natasha Roulston Cover Photography:Mercè Bellera coluMnists & contributinG Writers Nadia Ali Sue E. Armstrong, MA, VetMB, VetMFHom, CertIAVH, MRCVS, RsHom Claudia Bensimoun Brooke Betts Christina Chambreau, DVM, CHC Carmen Colitz, PhD, DACVO Annette Cooper Audi Donamor Daniel Estep, PhD, CAAB Cynthia S. Evans Michele Fortuna Sasha Foster Suzanne Hetts, PhD, CAAB, CVJ Amberly Scott Hindler Cindy Kneebone, DVM Caitlin “Angel” Leandres Anabelle Lee Macri Terri McCalla, MS, DACVO Andy Lopez Tracey Lowery, DVM Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Barbara Nefer Melissa Plati Sherri Regalbuto Katherine E. Tapley Susan Wagner, DVM, MS adMinistration & sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Sherri Soucie Operations Director: John Allan Administrative Assistant: Libby Sinden

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF: Mercè Bellera

Just look at those eyes! This fellow is a good reminder of how important it is to take care of your companion’s visual health. That’s the theme of this issue and you’ll find several articles on the topic. And now that summer’s here, it’s also crucial to protect your pooch from the sun’s damaging UV rays (and yes, you really can get sunglasses for dogs)!

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subMissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, 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.

adVertisinG sales National Sales Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com MidWest US: Pam Boyd Bombyk, (903) 714-2172 pambb@redstonemediagroup.com classified adVertisinG: Sherri Soucie 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 cdn Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, 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 orservices 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.

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Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2013. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: May 2013.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALS...

ONE READER AT A TIME.

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editorial

soul

Windows of the

W

hen I was little, I can remember being enthralled every time I made eye contact with a dog or cat. To me, the idea that these animals (and others) knew enough to look me right in the eye when interacting with me was a sure sign of sentience and intelligence, although at the time I didn’t know how to put this idea into words. I just marvelled at the connection we were able to make with our eyes, and wondered what was going on in the minds behind those gorgeous orbs.

That amazement has never left me. Although I now know that animals have emotions and a sense of awareness and consciousness, just like people do, and that their eyes are truly “windows of the soul”, I still feel that familiar thrill of wonder every time I meet the gaze of an animal and see the unconditional love, intelligence and spiritual wisdom in his or her eyes.

As it is with us, eye health is very important to our companion animals. Though dogs and cats have a much better sense of hearing and smell than we do, eye injuries, disease and vision loss can nevertheless have a profound impact on their quality of life. Eye wellness is therefore the theme of this issue, and we present numerous articles on the topic. Audi Donamor talks about top foods to support canine ocular health (page 18), while veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier looks at some common eye injuries that occur in

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dogs (page 30). On page 50, Amberly Scott Hindler examines causes and treatment options for conjunctivitis in canines; and veterinarian Dr. Cindy Kneebone reveals some of the reasons for eye problems in cats (page 66).

With summer on the doorstep, you’ll probably be spending more time outdoors with your canine companion, so we also offer an article on safe and effective sun protection for pooches (yes, they need shielding from those UV rays too!). Learn how to build a healthy bond with a newly adopted dog or puppy, or ease fearful behaviors in canines that have been abused or badly socialized. And be sure to check out our profiles of two animal-loving ladies – actress Megan Blake (and her dog Smiley!) and news anchor Lu Parker.

There’s lots more in this issue, so why not grab a cold drink and sit down in the shade to read for awhile – with your furry friend by your side, of course!

Ann Brightman Managing Editor

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contributors

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1. Veterinarian Dr. Sue Armstrong graduated from Cambridge Veterinary School in England, and has an integrative practice in Wetherby.

She studied homeopathy at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital and with the HPTG in Oxford, and has obtained VetMFHom and RSHom status. She is president of The Canadian College of Animal Homeopathy.

See page 56 for Dr. Armstrong’s article on a homeopathic approach to cancer.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Susan Wagner is a veterinary neurologist and pioneer in the area of the human-animal bond. She offers integrative medicine at MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets, and is a Healing Touch for Animals® practitioner. She is also an adjunct faculty member at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and co-author of Through a Dog’s Ear. On page 44, Dr. Wagner’s discusses energy medicine.

3. Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier authored the Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics.

His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. See page 30 for his article on eye injuries.

4. 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-

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time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril Kennel Trophy for the Human/Animal Bond. In this issue (page 18), she focuses on top foods for eye health.

5. Veterinarian Dr. Cindy Kneebone received her DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College.

She received diplomas in Homeopathy from the British Institute of Homeopathy; in Chinese Herbal Medicine from Huang Di College of Traditional Chinese Medicine; and in Veterinary Acupuncture at the Michener Institute. She is certified with the IVAS. Dr. Kneebone practices at the East York Animal Clinic in Toronto. For this issue, she discusses feline eye problems (page 66).

8. Veterinarian Dr. Christina Chambreau is a homeopathic vet, lecturer and author. She graduated from the University of Georgia Veterinary College, and is a founder of the Academy Of Veterinary Homeopathy. Dr. Chambreau teaches classes in homeopathy for animals. She is co-author of the Homeopathic Repertory: A Tutorial. See page 26 for her advice on Lyme disease.

9. Barbara Nefer is an animal lover and freelance writer living in Celebration, Florida. She shares her life with three cats, two horses, and a Quaker parrot. For this edition (page 34), Barbara profiles actress Megan Blake.

6. Dr. Suzanne Hetts, Ph.D., CAAB and her husband Dr. Daniel Estep, Ph.D., CAAB are award winning speakers and authors, having lectured on four continents to animal parents and professionals. Their company, Animal Behavior Associates, Inc., provides behavior education to animal parents at SensibleDogTraining.com and CatBehaviorHelp.com. See page 62 for their article on treating fearful dogs.

10. Amberly Scott Hindler owns Lux Dog Daycare, Inc. in West Los Angeles, (luxdogdaycare.com). She worked in client services at high-traffic veterinary hospitals in Los Angeles after graduating from the University of Southern California. Amberly is the recipient of a Gold Circle Award for Journalists from Columbia University’s Scholastic Press Association. See page 50 for Amberly’s article on canine conjunctivitis.

7. Andy Lopez is founder of The Invisible Gardener Inc., providing alternatives to chemical products for home and garden. He has taught organic horticulture and regularly addresses organizations like the World Health Organization and state horticultural societies.

He has written books (e.g. The Organic Gardener’s Manual and Natural Pest Control) and has several radio shows on Talkshoe.com.

On page 26, Andy offers natural ways to prevent Lyme disease.

11. Nadia Ali is a freelance writer who was born in London, England and now lives on the Caribbean island of Trinidad. She is inspired by Cici, her family cat. Her work has been published online and in print. In this issue (page 74), she features the Japanese phenomenon of cat cafés.

12. Cynthia S. Evans has never been without a dog or a cat in her life. She has learned many valuable lessons and received many blessings from the animal kingdom in general.

Submissions

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If you are interested in submitting an article for Animal Wellness Magazine, please contact Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at : Ann@RedstoneMediaGroup.com.

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We welcome unsolicited articles and story outlines. If you submit an outline for an article, please also send samples of your work. For our submission guidelines, visit animalwellnessmagazine.com.

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She is also a songwriter/musician, belongs to the duo band ViCindy, and is a writer and photographer. Turn to page 71 for Cynthia’s article on emergency preparedness for cats.

13. Claudia Bensimoun is a freelance writer in West Palm Beach who specializes in writing about dogs and horses. In this issue, she shows you how to use social media to help rescue dogs – see page 88.

14. Katherine E. Tapley graduated from Mount Allison University with a BA in psychology, sociology and history. She has been a

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freelance writer for 35 years and has written several books including Devotions With Your Cat and The Adventures of Sir Lancelot the Cat. For this issue (page 69), Katherine shares what she’s learned about dealing with feline behavior problems.

Caitlin “Angel” Leandres is a certified Animal Care Technician and Animal Nutritionist specializing in dog nutrition and dog training. She enjoys training and competing with her German shepherd, Hunter; they are currently focused on Schutzhund/IPO, competitive obedience,

narcotics detection and therapy work.

Angel shares her knowledge through her blog, K9 Instinct . Check out her tips on forming a healthy bond with your newly adopted pup (page 38).

Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri.

When she’s not writing, she works as a pet sitter. On page 80, Sandra talks to news anchor and animal advocate, Lu Parker.

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YaKKitY YaK TAKING HOME THE HONORS Once again, the annual Genesis Awards honored a wide spectrum of entertainment and news media for their work at raising awareness of animal issues. Dancing with the Stars judge and animal advocate Carrie Ann Inaba hosted the gala event, which took place March 23 in Beverly Hills. Here are some highlights: • Universal Picture’s Big Miracle received best Feature Film for its inspiring true story about international efforts to save a family of trapped whales.

• Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report picked up the Sid Caesar Comedy Award for its biting satire of a Congressman’s defense of dogfighting.

• NBC’s Harry’s Law won the Dramatic Series Award for a thought-provoking storyline questioning the ethics of keeping primates in captivity.

• Best TV Documentary went to Discovery’s Ivory Wars for a penetrating look at the alarming escalation in elephant ivory trade.

• The best TV Newsmagazine Award was shared between NBC’s Rock Center with Brian Williams for in-depth reporting on endangered orangutans and rhinos and the issue of chimps in research, and ABC’s Nightline for an investigation into the shocking abuse of Tennessee walking horses by one of the industry’s best-known trainers.

“We are so grateful to the news and entertainment media for keeping animal protection issues firmly in their view in genres as diverse as comedy programming and documentaries,” says Beverly Kaskey, executive producer of the Genesis Awards and senior director of HSUS’ Hollywood Outreach Program. “Concern for the welfare of animals has universal audience appeal, and since so much of what negatively impacts animals occurs out of sight, it’s important that these issues remain in the media spotlight.” humanesociety.org

Un-scooped dog waste can wash into storm drains and end up in distant rivers and streams.

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Top to bottom: John Krasinski and Drew Barrymore in Big Miracle; Bob Saget in Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report; Kathy Bates in Harry’s Law; and Rock Center with Brian Williams.

THE “FAT GAP” Animal obesity is showing no signs of abating, according to the latest nationwide survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). The survey found 53% of adult dogs and 55% of cats were classified as overweight or obese by their veterinarians.

“The most distressing finding in this year’s study was the fact that more people are unaware their animals are overweight,” says APOP founder Dr. Ernie Ward. “In fact, 22% of dog owners and 15% of cat owners characterized their animals as normal weight when they were actually overweight or obese. This is what I refer to as the ‘fat pet gap’ or the normalization of obesity by animal parents. In simplest terms, we’ve made fat animals the new normal.” petobesityprevention.com

DUO OF DOGS Check out these two unique dogs. The American Kennel Club (akc.org) has expanded its litter of recognized breeds to welcome the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno and the Chinook.

• The Chinook was bred as a sled dog for drafting and racing in New Hampshire and was named the state dog in 2009. Chinooks enjoy activities such as backpacking, skijoring, sledding, jogging and hiking with their families.

They are fond of children and get along well with other dogs. They are playful, highly trainable and adaptable.

• The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is known for its small size, erect ears and wedge-shaped head. This hunting breed is active, intelligent and easy to train. They require regular exercise but should be kept on a leash or in a fenced yard due to their instinct to chase.

d during her es a new frien ak m . le ad Be ter in New York Michelle Adoption Cen A C SP A e th visit to

CELEBRITY AMBASSADOR

“Michelle has an impressive track record of reporting on stories that people care about and connecting with audiences on a national and regional level,” says Todd Hendricks, senior vice president of development for the ASPCA.

tesy of AKC

“As a pet parent and lifelong animal lover, I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible impact animals can have on our lives,” says Michelle, who recently visited the ASPCA Adoption Center in New York. “I am so proud to be working with the ASPCA to help support their life-saving work for animals across the country and further their mission to prevent animal cruelty.”

Chinook

Photos cour

Television host and animal advocate Michelle Beadle (The Crossover, Access Hollywood) was recently named an ASPCA Celebrity Ambassador. She’ll be working closely with the organization to support its campaigns and fundraising initiatives.

Portugu e

se Pode

ngo Peq ueno

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YaKKitY YaK HEALING EFFECT Families who have children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are often faced with major challenges. There has been little research done on how dog guardianship affects these families, but thanks to a novel method of monitoring social media, researchers from the University of Missouri have found that dogs have a positive impact on families with autistic youngsters.

The researchers analyzed word clusters such as “family,” “pet” and “love” from thousands of internet forum and social media posts by families with ASD children. Based on the analysis of these word groups, they concluded that dogs trained to be service or therapy animals can help children with autism in their social and school lives as well as improve the overall quality of life for all family members. munews.missouri.edu

SAVING STREET DOGS ALL-TIME HIGH Those who don’t share their lives with an animal companion are in the minority. According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2013-2014 National Survey Pet Owners Survey, animal guardianship in the US is at a record high. This is thanks in part to people’s willingness to promote animal companionship to others – nearly half of animal guardians report they heard of their companion’s availability by word of mouth. The survey indicates that animal guardianship among all US households is at 68%. Dog households have increased to 56.7 million households, while cat guardianship has grown to 45.3 million. americanpetproducts.org

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Street dogs are a problem in India’s cities, and the issue has often been addressed by local authorities and individuals through poisoning and other brutal methods. A charitable organization called Help in Suffering (HIS) is providing a much more humane solution by spaying and neutering the dogs. To date, HIS has sterilized more than 50,000 dogs in Jaipur alone – that’s over 70% of that city’s street dog population, according to Dr. Jack Reece, chief veterinary surgeon at HIS. “Street dog populations cannot be eliminated until the rubbish on which they feed is eliminated and public attitudes change, but until such time, the best option remains sterilization,” he says. his-india.in

Dr. Jack Reece and vet tech Pr abhu Ram perform surger y on a street do g. animal wellness

HE’S GOOD FOR YOU! Sharing your life with an animal companion can positively impact both your mental and physical health.

Psychotherapist, author and positive living speaker, Diane Lang (dlcounseling.com), has seen firsthand with patients, and in her own life, how spending time with animals can yield positive psychological benefits. She offers eight benefits companion animals can bring us: Help reduce stress.

Help ward off depression and loneliness. Boost selfesteem.

Great way to exercise.

Help us feel safe and protected.

Teach us the true meaning of unconditional love.

Teach us to have fun and play – playing with your animal elevates your serotonin and dopamine levels, which produce “good feelings and elevates moods” Less signs of heart disease and lower blood pressure.

Having an animal is like having a best friend – it gives us a feeling of connectedness and belonging.

Administer flower remedies by stroking a few drops on the coat or rubbing on ear tips or paw pads.

PENNSYLVANIA PUPPY MILLS More inroads are being made against puppy mills, at least in Pennsylvania. The dog law enforcement unit of the state’s agriculture department has tightened enforcement of its 2009 anti-puppymill law. It has taken action against 37 operations it says were engaging in illegal breeding of dogs (including six doing online sales).

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YaKKitY YaK GUIDELINES FOR EUTHANASIA Euthanasia is a humane way to relieve a terminally ill or elderly animal of his suffering. The AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals have been revised and are available to both animal guardians and veterinarians. Originally published in 1963 and updated at least once every ten years, the guidelines are designed for use by veterinarians who carry out or oversee the euthanasia of animals. Some of the most recent changes include: • Inclusion of euthanasia methods for invertebrates and other “lower-order” species.

• Recommendations regarding euthanasia of injured or diseased wildlife and removal of animals causing damage to property or threatening human safety.

• Additional information about the handling of animals before and during euthanasia.

• Additional information about confirmation of death and disposal of animal remains.

The guidelines can be accessed at AVMA.org.

JERKY TREAT CONUNDRUM Over the last number of years, the FDA has received over 2,500 reports of dogs that became ill after eating jerky treats, mostly made in China. Jerky treat illnesses are related to Franconi syndrome, a condition that affects the proximal renal tubes of the kidney. Clinical signs are increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea.

A veterinary toxicology and pathology team at the Veterinary Information Network is now working to discover the cause of illness from recalled jerky treats. It’s asking veterinarians to submit cases, especially ones with laboratory data, as part of a survey to weed out other possible causes of illness. Earlier this year, the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine pointed out that other foods or drugs could be the culprit, not the jerky, and that there may be a reporting bias – i.e. people hear about a recall, then their animals become ill. However, to be on the safe side, it’s best to avoid commercial jerky treats made in China. news.vin.com/vinnews.aspx?articleId=25737

AGE MAKES A DIFFERENCE How old was your dog when s/he was spayed or neutered? Recent results from research funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation suggests that veterinarians should be more cautious about the age at which they spay and neuter canine patients.

A team of researchers at the University of California, Davis evaluated the incidence of cancer diagnoses and joint problems in golden retrievers by neuter status: early (before 12 months old), late (12 months or older) and intact. Results showed an increased likelihood of hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and canine cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in neutered dogs. Most profoundly, the risk of hip dysplasia doubled, and disease occurred at a younger age, in early-neutered dogs.

The incidence of CCL in early-neutered dogs was 5.1% in males and 7.7% in females, suggesting that neutering prior to sexual maturity significantly increases a dog’s risk of developing this condition. Cases of lymphoma were three times greater in early-neutered males; however, the incidence of mast cell tumors (males and females) and hemangiosarcoma (females only) were highest in the late-neutered group. akcchf.org/canineathlete

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Almonds and Brazil nuts are gluten free, rich in vitamin E – and support eye health.

Packed with nutrients, these colorful foods can help keep his eyes sharp by protecting against a variety of ocular problems. By Audi Donamor

Eye health in dogs has become the talk of the town. There’s more and more discussion about eye disease in canines, including macular degeneration, cataracts, uveitis and glaucoma.

Many people have written to me, asking if there are any particular foods they could consider including in their dogs’ diets to foster eye health and perhaps help prevent or stave off eye problems.

Blueberries

contain two very important eye healthy carotenoids – lutein and zeaxanthin. They also contain anthocyanins, eye-nourishing phytonutrients that are shown to support night vision. Flavonoids, like rutin, resveratrol and quercetin, are also found in blueberries, and may help prevent macular degeneration. Blueberries also contain selenium and zinc, which further support vision. Eating blueberries has even been associated with the reduction of eye fatigue.

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Here’s a top ten list of foods that contain some all-important eye-worthy buzz words like anthocyanins, beta-carotene, carotenoids, glutathione, Omega-3 essential fatty acids, lycopene, phytonutrients – and the very special partnership of lutein and zeaxanthin, sometimes referred to as sunscreen for the eyes.

Broccoli

Besides its anti-cancer benefits, broccoli is also recognized as one of the best vegetables for eye health.

It is a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin and is also packed with beta-carotene. Try parboiling a few broccoli florets by simply dropping them into boiling water and timing for two minutes; cool and serve for a power-packed side dish. Don’t leave the leaves behind, because they contain even more beta-carotene than the stems and florets.

Broccoli and broccoli sprouts have been found to protect the retina from free radical damage. This may be due to a compound called sulphuraphane, which boosts the body’s defense system against free radicals.

Carrots are among the kingpins of the vegetable patch.

There are over 100 varieties, from the deepest purple and white to the brilliant orange we are most accustomed to seeing. Each is a storehouse of nutrient power. Carrots contain pro-vitamin A, betacarotene, vitamins B, C, D, E and K, and riboflavin, niacin, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, magnesium, manganese, sulphur, copper and iodine. The old axiom that carrots are good for the eyes is not just a myth. Carrots also contain lycopene and lutein, protective phytonutrients that protect the eye from UVB radiation and damage from free radicals.

Cold water fish such as salmon, tuna, cod, haddock and sardines are rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Fish is especially high in EPA and DHA, two Omega3s important to cellular health. DHA makes up 30% of the fatty acids that comprise the retina. The particularly high levels of Omega-3 in sardines provide some protection against macular degeneration.

Eggs

are rich in cycteine and sulphur, two components of glutathione. This may explain why sulphur-containing compounds have been found to protect eyes from cataract formation. Egg yolks contain lutein, and diets high in lutein may lead to a reduced risk of developing macular degeneration. The zeaxanthin found in eggs is also beneficial to eye health.

A study published by the University of Massachusetts in 2006 found that eating an egg a day raised levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the blood, helping reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. The study further found that while serum lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in the blood were significantly increased, serum lipids and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations were not.

Garlic Sulphur-rich garlic is important for the production of glutathione, an important protein that acts as an antioxidant for the lens of the eye. Glutathione is found to be instrumental in the prevention of some visual problems.

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swEET POTaTOEs have

KalE

is an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin. The american Optometric association says these special antioxidants act like “internal sunglasses”. add beta-carotene to the mix and you have the perfect food to help to protect against oxidative stress.

so much to offer. They are one of the world’s healthiest foods. They are loaded with beta-carotene, making them the perfect choice to protect eye health. steaming sweet potatoes for just seven minutes actually maximizes their potential to support canine health. sweet potatoes are packed with anthocyanins that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

TOMaTOEs are known as a super food. They contain two eyePuMPKiN

The beautiful bright orange is a sure sign that pumpkins are packed with carotenoids such as beta-carotene, which help neutralize free radicals. The lutein and zeaxanthin found in pumpkin also promotes eye health and makes it yet another whole food that protects against macular generation. Even pumpkin seeds carry lots of benefits, including Omega-3, zinc and phytosterols to enhance your dog’s immune response.

healthy nutrients – lycopene and lutein. lycopene is a carotenoid and phytonutrient found in red fruits and vegetables. it is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against macular degeneration. lycopene has been well documented as effective in cancer prevention, and its antioxidant properties act to protect the eyes from sun damage. Processed tomato products contain higher levels of lycopene than raw tomatoes. in fact, lycopene is even more bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked with a little first-pressed extra virgin olive oil, increasing the body’s ability to absorb and utilize this very important eye support. Pass the tomato sauce!

EYE sPY Eggs

EYE BrigHT MasH

Ingredients

Ingredients 4 to 6 cups brightly colored fruits and vegetables that support eye health, including kale, broccoli, carrots, and spring greens ½ cup filtered water

½ cup dark leafy greens, shredded ½ cup carrots, finely grated 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional)

5 whole eggs 2 tablespoons first-pressed extra virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. In oven-to-table cookware, combine all ingredients using a whisk or fork. Bake for 20 minutes or until the center of the loaf is set and the top is golden. Cool to room temperature before serving. This is so yummy it almost disappears before I can transfer it to my dogs’ bowls!

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Use organic ingredients whenever possible. Simply whirl all the ingredients in a food processor and serve as a meal topper or side dish.

Cooked mash Ingredients 4 to 6 cups brightly colored fruits and vegetables 6 cherry tomatoes 2 tablespoons first-pressed extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt Instructions Chop vegetables by hand or use a food processor. Transfer to a medium sauce pan.

Add olive oil and salt. Turn stove on high until bubbles begin to form, then turn down to simmer and gently cook for 15 minutes. Cool before serving with wild Pacific sardines packed in spring water or another coldwater fish, such as salmon, tuna, cod or haddock.

Tri-light bliss biscuits Ingredients 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin pureé or 2 cups fresh pumpkin 1 cup almonds 1 cup Brazil nuts 2 cups whole oat flour 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon Alternative ingredients include hemp flour or quinoa flour, which can replace the whole nut flours. If you would like to make this recipe more sweet than savory, simple add ¼ cup local honey, and you will have a healthy treat your whole family can share.

Instructions Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Grind almonds and Brazil nuts in a food processor until they form a flour. Add remaining ingredients and continue to process until thoroughly mixed. Remove dough and form a large ball. Form small pieces of dough into balls and roll in extra oat flour, if needed, and place on cookie sheet. As though you are making old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, gently flatten each ball. Place cookie sheet in a cold oven, and turn on to 325°F, using the convection setting if available. When oven reaches temperature, turn down to 175°F, and leave for 1½ hours. Turn oven off and allow the biscuits to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

Kale krisps Ingredients 1 bunch kale or large-leafed greens 1 tablespoon first-pressed extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional 1 tablespoon hemp hearts (optional)

Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. Remove leaves from the thick outer stems of the kale. Cut or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and wash them with filtered water. Dry them in a salad spinner or pat them dry with a paper towel or tea towel. Spread the kale pieces on the cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt, garlic powder and hemp hearts, if desired. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges of the leaves are turning golden in color. Remove from oven, cool and serve. Store in an open container; if they lose their crunch, simply pop them back in a pre-heated oven for a few minutes. animal wellness

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Sunny days

By Annette Cooper

A lot of people think because dogs are covered in hair, they don’t need shielding from the sun’s UV rays. But sunburn and even skin cancer can occur in canines that get too much sunlight. Find out how to protect your pooch.

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When Yvonne’s dog developed a strange sore on his nose, she never dreamed it would be skin cancer. “I didn’t think dogs needed protection from the sun, but I soon learned I was wrong,” Yvonne says.

Whenever you take your dog outdoors, he’ll be exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. While most dogs have hair that acts as a natural sunscreen, frequent or prolonged sun exposure will eventually take its toll. Dogs have sensitive skin, and even 30 minutes of sun can result in a burn in some breeds. Sunburn in a dog can appear as red skin or even hair loss.

Dogs most at risk are working canines and those subjected to lots of sun exposure during family activities such as boating and hiking. All hairless breeds and dogs that have been clipped should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. Breeds such as terriers, spaniels, Chihuahuas, Doberman pinschers and other shorthaired dogs, as well as all breeds with white or pink skin, are at high risk for sunburn.

Canine skin cancer Research shows that dogs are just as prone to getting skin cancer as humans, with mast cell tumors being the most common.

Although golden retrievers have an increased risk of mast cell tumors compared to other breeds, any dog can get skin cancer.

Again, some breeds are more prone than others, especially if they have light skin or pink noses.

“Most dogs have pigmented skin,” says veterinarian Dr. Nancy Scanlan. “White dogs have pink skin, but most of it is protected from the sun by hair. Skin cancer from excess exposure to the sun most often occurs in two places: the noses of white dogs, or dogs with pink noses or white markings on top of the muzzle. Shortcoated dogs that enjoy sunbathing while lying upside down in the sun can also get skin cancer.”

• Mast cell tumors may be red, itchy and periodically swell up and then disappear.

• Melanomas occur frequently in dogs. Those found on haired skin are normally benign; melanomas that arise in the mouth, gums, nails and toes are the ones to look out for.

Selecting a sunscreen Before you start thinking you’ll have to keep your dog inside more, know that you can protect him from the sun’s harmful rays using sunscreens or specially-designed apparel. The muzzle and ears are the most common places to apply sunscreen. “It is impossible to use sunscreen on the nose itself because dogs will lick it off almost immediately,” advises Dr. Scanlan. “The top of the muzzle and the ears are easier to treat.” animal wellness

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Ingredients to

avoid

Steer clear of sunscreens that contain these chemicals.

Benzophenone-3 Triethanolamine Methyl paraben Zinc oxide

When it comes to sunscreens, the key is to choose a product that’s safe and non-toxic as well as effective. Sunscreens don’t need to contain unhealthy synthetic or chemical sun filters, yet many do. Most dogs will lick the sunscreen after application, so you need something that won’t harm your canine if he ingests it.

• Never use a product that contains PABA, as it can be fatal if licked off.

• Also avoid sunscreens that contains zinc oxide; any ingestion could lead to hemolytic anemia in dogs (see sidebar for more ingredients to avoid).

• The Natural Dog Snout Soother (SPF 10) contains shea butter, kukui nut oil and vitamin E to offer snout sunburn protection and relief.

• Epi-Pet’s Sun Protector sunscreen is formulated especially for dogs and is fragrance free. It also contains tocopheryl, an antioxidant that promotes healing for burned or damaged skin.

• Natural sunscreens made for children can be used on dogs. Products include Aubrey Organics Green Tea Sunblock for children, with SPF 25, or Jasön Kids Natural Sunscreen with SPF 46.

DMDM hydantoin Imidurea PABA

• Veterinarian Dr. Douglas H. Thamm recommends using UV blocking sun shirts for dogs. This is a good alternative if you are unable to find a natural sunscreen. “Sunscreen is licked off after application, and toxicity after oral ingestion has not been well studied,” says Dr. Thamm. “Behavior modification such as keeping dogs out of the sun is the best preventative, but UV blocking shirts and suits for dogs are a good alternative as well.” Lightweight sun shirts are great for outdoor activities like swimming and boating and will keep your dog’s coat cool throughout the day. The PlayaPup UV Protective Rashguard Shirt, for example, is made from UPF 50+ rated fabrics to block 97.5% of harmful UV rays.

You can also take some simple lifestyle steps to help reduce sun exposure and minimize the risk of sunburn or skin cancer.

Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when the sun is lower in the sky, and make sure he has access to shade in your back yard, at your cottage or on your boat. Add in a non-toxic sunscreen for his muzzle and ears, or a UV-repellent jacket, and your dog will be all set for the summer!

Sunscreen sources Aubrey Organics aubrey-organics.com Epi-Pet epi-pet.com Jāsön jason-personalcare.com Natural Dog Company naturaldogcompany.com PlayaPup UV Protective Shirt petco.com

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reWind In our Apr-May 2006 issue, we featured the following article on Lyme disease. Because it’s a disease that’s as topical today as it was seven years ago, we believe it merits another look, along with some updated information.

much ado about

LYMEDISEASE LYME

By Andy Lopez with updates by Christina Chambreau, DVM, CHC

Though it’s no cause for panic, this tick-borne illness is still a serious issue in many regions. Learn how to protect yourself and your dog from infection. we’ve heard a lot about lyme disease, and the devastating effects it can have on those inflicted with it. This insidious illness, often called “the great imitator” because of its similarity to many other conditions, including arthritis and heart disease, can also infect our dogs.

WHAT IS IT? lyme disease gets its name from a small town in connecticut where it was first recognized in 1989, although studies have indicated that it has actually been around for centuries. it is carried by the black legged tick, more commonly known as the deer tick, since deer are one of the main carriers. while there have been two primary carriers, Ixodes scapularis (common deer tick) in the NE and upper Midwest, and Ixodes pacificus in the western united states, other ticks are now noted to transmit Borellia, the bacteria that causes lyme disease.

Diagnosing lyme disease is very difficult and not widely acknowledged by professionals. Even the doctors don’t agree as to what constitutes lyme disease, since it mirrors a wide variety of other conditions and problems. in animals, symptoms can include everything from painful lameness and stiffness to fever, changes in behavior (depression, confusion, anxiety), loss of appetite and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. if left untreated, the heart, kidneys and nervous system can also become affected.

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current treatment for both people and animals involves long periods of antibiotics, a controversial approach since it can lead to the overuse of these medications in human and animal populations as a whole.

Experts are promoting another, even more controversial way to control lyme disease, by killing the deer. in a small main town of Monhegan island, the townsfolk voted to hire a professional to kill off all the local deer! This type of misguided enthusiasm will not work because the black legged tick also hosts other animals such as dogs, cats, birds, rodents and people – most animals that have blood, in fact. Killing off deer will not deter tick populations; it will only drive them to look for new hosts.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST APPROACH Tick season usually occurs right after the first spring rains when the earth is warm at night. it can last through the summer and into the fall. with the strange weather across the nation, along with increases in wild animals in suburban areas, experts predict an increase in numbers of ticks. The best way to prevent lyme disease in yourself or your dog is to take the following protective steps.

ONE when out walking with your dog, or while on a camping trip, protect yourself by wearing long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and long cotton socks. Tie your pant legs with a string or rubber

band to prevent ticks from climbing up your pant legs. It’s also a good idea to wear light-colored clothing, as darker hues are more attractive to ticks. After a walk, thoroughly check yourself and your dog for any ticks.

TWO Use natural repellents to keep ticks off yourself and

Although antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat Lyme disease, there are other approaches.

“We often use homeopathy for treating Lyme,” says

your dog.

Dr. Mark Newkirk. “Using Ledum 1M potency three

Natural castile peppermint soap: wash your clothing in it, or spritz your clothes and your dog’s coat with a water-based solution (five tablespoons of soap per quart of water). The peppermint will repel the ticks and will remain effective for a few hours.

times a day for three days seems to help, as does

Citronella oil: add two drops to a quart of water and use the same way.

Garden grade diatomaceous earth (DE): add one tablespoon to a quart of water and spray on. You can also dust it on your clothes or your dog’s coat. This will kill and repel ticks for a short time. One handful of DE is enough for a dog. Start at the top of his neck, behind his head, and thoroughly dust his coat. Avoid getting it into his eyes. Allow it to stay on the dog as it will not harm him.

Pure pyrethrum powder: use as a dust on your clothes or your dog’s coat.

another homeopathic combo remedy called Lym D. I will also do a treatment with NAET to improve the body’s immune response to the organism.”

Natural soaps with added essential oils: You can bathe in them, wash your clothes in them, and wash your hair, allowing the foam to sit for a few minutes. Dogs will also love this. Take a bottle of peppermint soap with you whenever you go camping or hiking, along with a sprayer. By adding water and soap to the bottle, you can mist yourself and your dog as

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well as your camping area. garden grade DE can be added to the soap to increase its long term effectiveness.

WHAT IF A TICK BITES YOU OR YOUR DOG?

Citra Solve: another effective tick repellent. use one tablespoon per quart of water. spray the areas you are working or playing in, but avoid contact with skin and eyes.

if you find a tick on yourself or your dog, proper removal is crucial, since leaving the head imbedded in the flesh will cause infection and increase the possibility of lyme disease. using the proper tweezers is important. Try uncle Bills sliver gripper or his Tick removal Kit, which comes with tweezers, a magnifying lens, alcohol wipes, two plastic bags for keeping the suspected tick for later identification, and a tick identification card. if you’re in any doubt about whether or not you have removed the whole tick, see a doctor or vet as soon as possible.

Herbal flea collars: avoid the chemical variety!

THREE Plant peppermint around your garden or lawns. it will help repel ticks from your yard. Peppermint is easy to grow and spreads quickly.

FOUR Eat garlic during camping or hiking trips, or while doing outside work. This is another effective way to keep ticks from attaching themselves to you. Feeding your dog garlic will protect him as well. You can also put a small piece in your shoe before you go outside to work or hike. The garlic will be absorbed by your body and given off through your pores, effectively repelling ticks and fleas. (Of course you may also repel your friends and fellow hikers, but they’ll get used to it!) Planting garlic around your property will also work in the long run as an effective tick repellent. Brewers yeast is another effective food supplement you can use for yourself and your dog as an effective tick repellent.

FIVE strengthen your dog’s immune. while this does not prevent an infected tick from biting him, a strong immune system lessens the chance of him becoming ill with lyme disease. all living beings are being attacked by the chemicals in our environment, and are breaking down in their ability to fight off diseases. at the same time, pests like ticks are becoming immune to the chemicals designed to kill them. By strengthening your immune system, and your dog’s, you can go a long way towards protecting yourselves from lyme disease. The best way to do this is for both of you to eat pure food and drink pure water, breathe pure air, and reduce the stress in your lives.

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applying hot goldenseal tea directly to the infected area will help it heal faster. Vitamin c will also reduce infection and increase a return to health. an Echinacea and goldenseal mixture taken internally will help fight off any infection or disease, while vitamin E taken internally and applied to the bite will also reduce infection and the chances of getting lyme disease.

There’s no doubt that lyme disease is a serious issue, but it’s not the cause for panic that many people think it is. combining common sense prevention with a healthy, natural, organic lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of illness – and your furry friend’s.

The first vaccine to help prevent Lyme disease in humans was licensed by the FDA in 1998, although even they stressed that it wasn’t completely effective and shouldn’t be used in place of proper preventive measures. In fact, the human vaccine is now off the market because too many reactions were occurring.

Issues of efficacy also surround the canine vaccine, although Dr. Newkirk stresses that “since the advent of the Lyme vaccine, the incidence of Lyme disease is down.” There is also the danger of side effects, but Dr. Newkirk points out that he sees more reactions from the rabies vaccine than for Lyme disease. “It’s difficult to overvaccinate with Lyme, since immunity doesn’t last as it does with rabies or distemper,” he says. “We can also use Lyme nosode to ‘vaccinate’ with, although there’s no 20-million dollar study to prove it works.”

So, should you have Rover vaccinated or not? The best approach is to find out how much of a risk Lyme disease is in your region. If it’s minimal, you’re probably better off not having him vaccinated; if the risk is high, however – as it is in the northeastern US, where the majority of cases occur – it may be something you need to consider.

Consult with an integrative veterinarian for the most up to date information on the harm from the vaccine.

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Theo

Ow,

my eye!

By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

From punctures to lacerations, canine eye injuries occur more often than you might think.

Here are some of the most common wounds and how they’re treated.

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was making lunch for her family when she heard her dog crying in panic from the backyard. She dropped everything and dashed out to find that Teddy had caught his eyelid on a piece of wire sticking out of her fence.

He’d torn the lid in an attempt to get free, necessitating an emergency trip to the veterinarian. Luckily, the wire hadn’t injured the actual eye, so Teddy’s vision remained intact, but he had to have stitches in the lid.

Injury or trauma to one or both eyes is common in dogs.

While many people are familiar with cataracts and glaucoma, medical conditions such as these occur less often than injuries involving the eyes or surrounding (periocular) tissues. This article will discuss some of the eye injuries veterinarians most frequently see in small animal practice.

Corneal ulcers or punctures Ulcers, erosions and even puncture wounds to the cornea are often seen in dogs. Erosions are by definition a mild abrasive injury of the superficial layer of the cornea (the clear part of the eye), whereas ulcers involve both the superficial and deeper layers of the cornea. Severe ulcers can actually result in a perforation or puncture of the cornea. Erosions and ulcers usually result from something burning the cornea (shampoo or dip), or abrading it (dust, tumor on the eyelid, eyelashes or facial hair rubbing the cornea). Puncture wounds typically result from an injury from another dog’s (or cat’s) claw during a fight.

Signs of corneal disorders resemble those seen in many eye diseases, and include weeping from the eye (excess tearing) and redness of the sclera (the white part of the eye). Other signs can include cloudiness of the cornea (giving the eye a gray appearance) and pain (often manifesting as the pet rubbing the eye or keeping the lid partially or fully closed).

Lid lacerations As in Teddy’s case, cuts (lacerations) of the lids (and sometimes third eyelids) can occur. Most frequently, these lacerations result from trauma, usually fights with another animal. The laceration can be partial thickness (involving the superficial structures of the lid) or full thickness (where the laceration goes through all the layers of the lid). Treatment of eyelid lacerations involves surgical correction (suturing) of the torn edges of the lid, under full anesthesia.

Eyelid tumors Fortunately, most of these are benign lesions including glandular cysts and papillomas (warts). But cancerous tumors, such as melanomas and squamous cell carcinomas, also sometimes occur. Injuries to the tumor can result from the dog constantly rubbing or scratching it; some of these lesions, especially the larger ones, can grow and irritate the dog (and sometimes the cornea of the eye as well).

In most cases, eyelid tumors require surgical correction under full anesthesia. This can be done with laser or electrosurgery, or removal of the tumor and lid for larger or deeper growths.

Suspicious lesions should always be biopsied. Dogs with

Two important tests Unfortunately, I see too many dogs being treated for “conjunctivitis” when they actually have much more severe problems, often involving the cornea. These dogs should have been properly diagnosed at the time they were first seen, but were never tested during the initial visit. These two tests should be done when a dog with eye issues is first seen by a vet.

• the schirmer tear test is designed to check for adequate tear production. If the test shows decreased tear production, then a diagnosis of dry eye (KCS, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is made.

• a fluorescein stain checks for scratches or ulcers of the cornea. If this test is positive, then the appropriate treatment for a corneal scratch or ulcer can begin.

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biopsy-confirmed tumors can be treated conventionally (with chemotherapy if needed) or with natural therapies to reduce recurrence and support the immune system. Herbs I commonly use include astragalus, green tea, gotu kola, ginseng (Healthy Qi formula), scute, cordyceps, poria, American ginseng and coix (CI Support formula).

Natural therapies In general, most eye injuries need to be treated conventionally, either with surgery or antibiotic/antifungal/corticosteroid drops or ointment. However, some natural therapies may be useful for eye trauma.

brachycephalic breeds with “pushed-in faces and bulging eyes” tend to be more likely to have eyeball injuries.

While conventional therapies are often necessary for severe injuries, herbal and homeopathic medicines may also be effective and can be tried as the sole therapy or in conjunction with many allopathic treatments. Since many eye injuries are true emergencies, however, I encourage you not to try home remedies until a proper diagnosis and treatment plan has been devised by your veterinarian.

• For any eye injury necessitating surgical therapy, the postoperative use of arnica or hypericum helps reduce bruising, swelling and pain.

• If topical medication is required, properly prepared herbal eye drops utilizing any of the following herbs may help control infection or inflammation: Emblica officinalis, Cinnamomum camphora, Rosa damascene, wild rose, yarrow and fennel.

• Homeopathic eye drops containing Cochlearia officinalis, Echinacea, Euphrasia officinalis, and pilocarpus may also be useful for dogs with eye trauma.

Some breeds are more prone to eye trauma • brachycephalic breeds with “pushed-in faces and bulging eyes” tend to be more likely to have eyeball (globe) injuries. These breeds include Boston terriers, pugs, boxers, Shih tzus, and Lhasa apsos. Eye problem are prevalent in these breeds because the eyeballs literally protrude from the sockets due to the anatomy of the dogs’ skulls. In some cases, the eyelids do not completely close (a condition referred to as lagophthalmos); this means the globes are more likely to be injured and more likely to dry out. Additionally, some of these dogs, especially pugs, have prominent facial folds that can rubs the globes, causing irritation and corneal ulcerations.

Surgery can be used to correct either problem in severely affected animals.

• other breeds such as cocker spaniels and chow chows may have congenital eyelid problems that cause the lids to roll inward. When this happens, the lids or eyelashes can easily irritate and scratch the cornea, causing ulcerations. once again, surgery is usually corrective.

• some breeds, again including cocker spaniels, can develop a condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS or dry eye). In this condition, usually caused by a problem with the immune system (but also seen in some dogs with hypothyroidism), the tear (lacrimal) glands are attacked by antibodies produced by the defective immune system, reducing production of the liquid part of the tear film. due to this tear reduction, the eye globes tend to dry out, causing pain, ulceration, and with time, pigmentation that can cause blindness. Treatment with cyclosporine eye drops or ointment reduces the immune destruction of tear glands and restores normal tear function.

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Photo courtesy of Jay Lawrence

Megan’s mentors

By Barbara Nefer

This talented actress and producer credits h er dog S four-footed companions, for miley, along teaching h with her many other er some important life le ssons.

Megan Blake

has accomplished a lot in her life. She won the Miss Georgia crown back in 1983, and during her acting career has worked with major Hollywood names such as Elizabeth Taylor, Lisa Kudrow and Christina Ricci. It’s clear she has always loved performing. But she has another love that dates back as far as she can remember – a passion for animals.

Getting her first animal companion only caused Megan to want more, and Blackie the cocker spaniel came along. Then, when she was nine years old, she got every little girl’s Christmas wish: “I woke up in the morning, and there was a pony in the yard.”

“I was born into the world with a great empathy and love for animals,” Megan explains. That attraction went beyond dogs and cats to embrace just about every type of creature. “We’d be driving and I’d see a cow or horse in a field and say ‘I want it!’ I was drawn to every animal I saw.”

Childhood teachers

Megan’s parents were supportive, even though they didn’t share her passion. When she was five years old, however, they took her to the local Humane Society to choose a cat. “That was Kitty Boo Boo, my first soul mate. She was my constant companion, and I felt we had a deep communication.”

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A young

Megan (r

ight) with

her pony

, Silkie.

One day, while we were watching one of those sad pet adoption commercials, Smiley stuck his face in mine, stared in my eyes, and said: ‘This is terrible, we need a happy campaign’.

While Megan connected deeply with her cat and dog, Silkie the pony took things to the next level. “I’ve always had a belief that animals are healers and teachers,” she explains.

“Silkie taught me great lessons in patience and responsibility.

Blackie and Kitty Boo Boo were my basic lessons, and Silkie was advanced studies.”

Rehabbing Angel

One of her more recent teachers was Angel, a German shepherd puppy that had been labeled as “berserk”. The gangly pup was returned to a shelter by three families, but Megan had already learned from her animal companions that things aren’t always what they seem. The shelter inadvertently gave her paperwork with the previous families’ contact information, so she was able to get some background on the dog. Angel had been abandoned in the desert with her ears taped up, most likely unwanted because her ears didn’t stand. All three of her previous homes were filled with kids and chaos, and Megan realized she was a nervous, sensitive dog who needed calmness and structure.

Photo courtesy of Kim Swartz

Today, Megan is still learning from animals and witnessing their healing powers, and she’s also an active adoption advocate. She currently has dogs, a cat and horses, all of which are rescues.

Angel was well behaved but would go into phases of panic.

Megan tied her nearby while she was working and praised Angel when the dog was calm, but ignored her when she acted out. “I kept her by me for 48 hours, but that behavior was gone within 24. All this dog needed was groundedness, structure, and a strong pack coach.” Today, the “berserk” shepherd works as a therapy animal.

Smiley the star

Megan wanted a friend for Angel and visited a shelter in West LA where she was drawn to a big mutt with an unflappable manner. “All the other dogs were jumping, barking and howling, and he was just sitting there, not engaged in any of it,” she says. “I asked him: ‘Are you my dog?’’ and it was like he said, ‘Yep.’” animal wellness

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“There’s no life without animals. If they were missing, an entire universe would be lost.”

Photos courtesy of (left to right): Kim Swartz, Amy Barnett, Kim Swartz, Robert Cabral

Left to right: Smiley (dog at left) was one of the recent winners of a Zoomie Award for Best Dog Actor, Singer and Animal Advocate; Megan visits a wolf sanctuary; Taking a break with Smiley and Angel; Megan gets a kiss from a rescued wolf.

The dog was on hold for 20 days because his family had abandoned but not formally relinquished him. Megan visited him frequently during that time, and she noticed others doing the same. “On the day he was released for adoption, I got there at 7:30 in the morning, before the gates opened. I was totally nervous, biting my fingernails, like a teen waiting for rock concert tickets to go on sale.” Megan was first in the door, beating out two other families who were also taken by the dog’s charisma.

She named the dog Smiley, and others noticed his charm, too. “Angel is beautiful, but when I’d attend dog events and be going down the red carpet, Smiley was right in front with his big smile, and people gravitated to him, while Angel was in back, looking polite.” As an actress herself, Megan realized Smiley had a special spark.

The “happy campaign”

As it turned out, Smiley had a big life lesson in store for Megan.

“One day, while we were watching one of those sad pet adoption commercials, Smiley stuck his face in mine, stared in my eyes, and said: ‘This is terrible, we need a happy campaign’.

I started hearing this song in my head and put it on a tape recorder. I thought it would make a great flash mob campaign and Smiley stepped up to be the spokesdog. He gives me great ideas to energize animal adoption.” The Super Smiley Flash Mob for Pet Adoption was born.

The flash mob proved wildly popular, and soon people started requesting performances at their events. But Megan and Smiley’s success was temporarily marred by a personal tragedy when her mother passed away. “It was devastating, and I was immobilized,” Megan says. It was Smiley the healer who finally lifted her from her grief. “He walked up to my face and said ‘We need to start again.’”

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The Super Smiley Flash Mob was soon on its way across the country, from Arizona and California to Florida and New York City, promoting animal adoption wherever it went. This was followed by a series of YouTube videos that led to an awardwinning documentary, Super Smiley Flash Mob – A Dogumentary.

You can also hear Megan and Smiley on Pet Life Radio in the popular podcast “A Super Smiley Adventure”. Last year, Megan and Smiley were honored for their show with a Genesis Awards Honorable Mention. He is also serving as official spokesdog for the 2013 AHA Hero Dog Awards.

While Smiley is the big animal star in the family, Toot Suite the Travel Kitty has also made an impact. Megan found the bony little stray when visiting her father at a nursing home in North Carolina. She scooped him up and “the communication fell into place. A voice said: ‘You have a travel kitty.’ It was clear as day.” At the time, Megan was hosting Animal Attractions TV, a PBS lifestyle series for animal lovers, and the kitten, who she dubbed Tout Suite, became her co-star, traveling with her while she gave her viewers kitty care and travel tips.

While Megan has shared her life with many animals of different types and personalities, they all share a common trait. “They all have a mission, something to teach and share,” she says. “My own mission is to help integrate animals into people’s lives.”

Having had animal companions herself since the age of five, the actress can’t imagine ever being without them. “To me, there’s no life without animals. If they were missing, an entire universe would be lost.”

SAFE AND

SUSTAINABLE

By Ann Brightman

non-toxic earth-friendly pest control is of paramount importance to Stephanie – and Luna.

How one dog’s toxic reaction to an insecticide led to a company that specializes in natural, earth-friendly pest control products.

l

una was only ten years old when stephanie Boone was faced with the possibility of having to euthanize her. “she had been experiencing seizures, chronic skin issues, liver and kidney failure,” says stephanie. The culprit was an insecticide called fipronil found in the flea and tick medication prescribed by luna’s veterinarian.

“The vets tried to convince me luna had lived a long, good life and that it was ‘time’,” stephanie says. “But that ‘solution’ wasn’t an option for me. it didn’t feel right.”

stephanie began looking into safer and less toxic ways to control pests. “i delved into pesticide formulations, human and animal health impact studies, regulatory laws, and environmental policies,” she says. “My findings ultimately led me to the conclusion that there is a better option, a greener option, and most importantly, a safer option when formulating pesticides used on and around animals.” stephanie started wondercide llc in 2009. “it’s a producer of organic pest control and natural products for animals, people and property. Our primary objective is to treat the source, not the symptom, and to encourage further education and policy change about the use of toxic substances. we work with scientists, professors and holistic veterinarians to develop products void of harmful chemicals and synthetic pesticides, and we work to solve a variety of pest and animal health problems.”

wondercide’s product line runs the gamut from natural flea/tick products, ear mite/infection treatment, organic soap and anti-itch tonic oil and spray, to natural lawn fertilizer, pest control for the home and yard, and organic cedar shavings for animal bedding. “The products are non-toxic and non-staining, making them easy and safe to use routinely on furniture, flooring and bedding to prevent and treat infestations,” says stephanie. The company is committed to sustainability as well, and uses naturally-occurring renewable resources. “as a green certified Business with gold standard accreditation, we are dedicated to ecological, ethical and social standards.” wondercide provides support to various shelters, rescues and spay/neuter programs. “as part of company culture, each staff member dedicates personal time to outreach in the areas of adoption support, facility care, foster care, product donations, fundraising, and other initiatives,” says stephanie. “we offer educational blogs and videos, and strive to educate consumers on the health risks and dangers of toxins. we partner with holistic veterinarians who respond to consumer questions on our website.” running a company is hard work, but stephanie feels the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “i am grateful for the opportunity to have a positive, tangible impact on the health and wellness of animals and people. i’m also happy to report that luna is now a happy and healthy 14-year old dog!” animal wellness

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Whether you’re adopting a puppy or an adult dog, establishing a healthy connection with him from the start will help ensure a meaningful friendship that’ll last a lifetime.

TOP10

ways to build a bond

By Caitlin Leandres

The powerful bond between human and animal is one of the main reasons we bring dogs into our lives. It is an easily attained friendship that enriches our lives and nurtures our hearts. Dogs bring warmth and unconditional love to our homes, but it is their fiercely loyal companionship we value the most.

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Forging a healthy bond with a new puppy or dog is a fun and enriching journey. Here are ten simple ways you can weave strong threads of friendship with your new friend.

The initial step to creating a foundation for friendship will occur during your first interaction with the dog or puppy. Start by giving her the opportunity to come over and investigate you. Allow her to smell you and get comfortable with your presence; doing so helps her understand you are not a threat and are respectful of her space. She will appreciate not being overwhelmed by hugs and cuddles, and having the chance to check you out before you touch her. This process is often very quick and easy with puppies, but may take a little longer the older the dog is.

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Once your new friend has sniffed you and exhibited signs of being relaxed around you, begin the interaction. start by calling her to you in a calm, happy voice, and tell her what a good dog she is as soon as she shows interest in you. when she comes over to you, offer her a treat or pet her on the chest. Once you have met and become comfortable with each other, pull out a toy and engage her in some play. This will establish that you are a respectful friend she can trust and have fun with.

3 Bringing your puppy or dog home is when the fun really begins, since most of the bonding will occur once she is a member of your family. The most important steps to building a strong connection will involve the seemingly small, insignificant things you do for your dog every single day. By feeding her, walking her, taking her outside to potty, training her and playing with her, you will teach her that you are the source of all the good things in her life.

TM

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when it’s feeding time, engage the dog before she gets to eat. Have her sit and wait while you prepare her meal, then ask her to lie down and wait as you set the food in front of her. give her a release command to signify she may eat, and do not bother her until she is finished. This exercise teaches her to respect her role in the family while building trust during a structured routine. she also learns that you will not create stress or take her food once you’ve given it to her. This level of trust is important when building a bond between yourself and your dog. if she believes she has to defend her food or eat it quickly before you take it away, you connection will be negatively impacted.

S TO R A G E T H AT ’ S O U T O F S I G H T !

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Training is one of the best ways to establish a strong bond between yourself and your dog – as long as it is built on a foundation of communication, trust and understanding. working with your dog and teaching her various obedience commands helps you learn how to communicate effectively with each other, and teaches you to trust one another. Dogs want to make their human companions happy, so by working together and communicating effectively, you fulfill this need-to-please desire. always use gentle, positive, reward-based training.

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Play is another major factor in bondbuilding. games like fetch, tug-ofwar, chase and “find it” will strengthen your connection by making you the focus of your dog’s happiness and excitement. Don’t be afraid to goof around and laugh; she’ll appreciate the positive energy coming from you!

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Touch and one-on-one quiet time are among the most powerful bonding tools we can use, especially for dogs that enjoy cuddling on the couch or lying by your side while being stroked. Dogs communicate through touch just as they do with body language. use petting, massages and ear scratches to share mutual affection with your furry friend. watch for cues to ensure your dog fully enjoys this sort of attention; stress can be counterproductive to bond-building.

Leaving your dog alone for long periods isn’t conducive to creating a strong connection with her. Find ways you can go places and do things together, as often as possible.

Your dog can make the perfect exercise partner and doing these fun activities together will strengthen your friendship. Many dogs, once they reach physical maturity at around two years of age, make excellent running or jogging partners. This form of exercise is a great structured activity that relieves boredom, releases energy and gives your dog a job to do. consider a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, walking, swimming, soccer and skijoring. Your dog will feel closer to you when she’s included in your exercise routines.

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The little things in life can also strengthen the connection between you and your dog, so consider taking her with you to run errands, if weather permits. Dogs always benefit from extra time out of the house, with you. if you have some gardening or other outdoor work to do, give her something healthy to chew on so she can hang out with you while you work.

last but not least, remember to take time every day to appreciate and love your canine companion for all the joy and love she adds to your life. sharing mutual love and respect is the secret to a powerful connection that will last a lifetime!

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By Carmen Colitz, PhD, DACVO and Terri McCalla, MS, DACVO

Canine eyes age faster than ours do, and are susceptible to similar diseases.

BY A

LONG SIGHT as your dog gets older, he may develop eye problems.

The most common issues include dry eyes, lens opacities and retinal degeneration.

• Dry eye syndrome is common in certain breeds at younger ages, but its incidence increases as dogs age. Early signs include reddened conjunctiva and mucoid (ropy) or dried ocular secretions that have to be cleaned more than once daily. Dry eye disease can be exacerbated by inhalant and food allergies. without proper treatment, dry eye syndrome can result in painful corneal ulcers or scarring, and pigment deposition.

• Normal age-related lens opacities begin at approximately six years of age. it’s called nuclear (or lenticular) sclerosis. Vision is not affected until it becomes very advanced or if there is concurrent retinal degeneration. risk for cataracts increases with age.

• Age-related retinal degeneration is very common and may be recognized at approximately eight to ten years of age.

The initial signs include some difficulty seeing at night or in dimmed rooms. it’s different from inherited retinal degenerative diseases, in which young dogs progressively and often rapidly lose their night vision, followed by their day vision. an antioxidant supplement blend may slow both of these degenerative retinal diseases.

Protect your dog’s eyes as well as your own. give him antioxidants and invest in doggie sunglasses. animal wellness

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Product PicKs Going

Take a

look

Your dog’s eye health is a crucial part of his overall well being.

AvidLife OS formula contains six antioxidants and cellular protectants that work synergistically to inhibit the formation of damaged lens proteins, a primary factor in cataract formation. This product also promotes overall eye health and clarity, provides moisture for dry eyes, neutralizes free radicals and helps repair damaged cells.

15 ml: $44.49 avidlifepet.com

vegan?

If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, and feel uncomfortable giving your dog meat-based foods, you have an alternative. Evolution Diet & National Health specializes in optimal protein gourmet vegan pet foods, made from non-GMO plant proteins with added nutrients like taurine, carnitine, methionin and lysine. The company also offers an accredited holistic health service and advanced nutrient metabolite procedures. petfoodshop.com or evolutiondietstore.com

Now“ear” this!

Ear infections, mites, itching and scratching…a dog’s ears can give him problems at times. K9 Ear Solutions from Liquid Health reduces the discomfort and itching. It’s based on a medical grade USP isopropyl alcohol that dries up moisture in the ear that can facilitate the growth of bacteria and yeast. The product also contains an anti-infection agent called Gentian Violet, as well as boric acid to soothe the ear.

Starts at $10.50 for 12 oz liquidhealthpets.com

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Make walks

easy

Does your dog pull on his leash so much that he chokes? The Rope-N-Go does away with this problem by offering gentle, humane non-choking control. The rope material is strong enough for big dogs, but also lightweight enough for small ones. The Rope-N-Go has no awkward buckles – and the lack of metal parts means it’s non-conductive, an important safety issue for those concerned about sidewalk electrocution.

Starts at $22.95 for 4’ ropengo.com

Three cheers for chia Chia seeds may be small but they’re packed with nutrition. DogStars are gluten- and wheat-free organic dog treats from SavvyBeast that are made with chia for a punch of extra protein, Omega-3s and antioxidants.

They also include real organic beef, chicken, turkey, and now lamb for that natural meat flavor dogs love. These handmade gourmet treats contain no artificial ingredients – they’re healthy as well as delicious.

6 oz bag: $12.99 savvybeasttreats.com

It’s a snap

Tired of grappling with leashes? LeashLocket™ is a new collar-mounted retractable leash. Fasten the magnetic snap attachment around your dog’s collar/harness, then connect the snaphook to the D-ring as usual and use it as you would any other retractable leash. At the end of the walk, retract it all the way to the collar/harness, then snap the locket on the collar attachment. Your dog is now carrying his leash on his collar/harness, ready for you to grab it and go at any time. $24.99 leashlocket.com

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By Susan Wagner, DVM, MS

You’ve heard the term “ENERGY MEDICINE”, but what exactly is it and why and how does it work?

or most of us, the word “energy” calls to mind something that turns lights on and off, runs our cars, or is enhanced by vitamins. We don’t realize we are made of energy, and that we interact with people and animals on an instinctive, energetic basis. All living and non-living substances are made of vibrating electromagnetic energy – just like light, sound or microwaves. We literally send off an invisible electromagnetic field in all directions, like ripples caused by pebbles tossed into a pond. This energy field is a physical connection to our families and friends, animal companions, wildlife and natural surroundings. It connects us to every being on the planet.

EVERYTHING IS CONNECTED Energy practitioners know that all beings are connected – it is the basis for distance healing. Studies involving prayer show that patients who were prayed for had better outcomes than those who weren’t. These patients did not know about the prayer. When I do a distance session with an animal, the guardian will observe all the physical signs they witnessed with previous hands-on sessions.

Science is getting closer and closer to proving this concept.

Physicists have long theorized about a substance throughout the universe called dark energy. It can’t be seen or measured yet; its existence is based on discrepancies in gravitational calculations between galaxies and other celestial objects. Scientists know that some other force is at play, connecting everything that exists.

Someday they will have the tools to adequately measure this force.

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RIDING THE WAVE Electromagnetic fields are composed of waves, so to understand how to use energy principles for healing, it’s important to have a basic understanding of wave theory. In addition to the immediate connection discussed above, waves traverse locally very quickly and interact with other waves around them. When one wave hits another object that is vibrating similarly, it resonates with it. If you put two guitars on opposite sides of a room and pluck the E string on one, the sound will travel across the room and interact with the opposite guitar. Because the corresponding E string is of a similar frequency, it would resonate with the vibration and produce a sound. We often use the word resonate to mean being in synch with something – it feels good. When we are around people who vibrate at similar frequencies, we resonate with them, just as guitar strings do. Anyone who has ever participated in a group musical performance knows the importance of resonating in tune with one other. The audience knows it too!

Each of us experiences energetic resonance daily, but most of us aren’t aware of what’s happening. Have you ever disliked someone you just met, without knowing why? Your energy field knows exactly why – you don’t resonate with the other person. If we are fearful or angry, we produce uncomfortable vibrations. We have all felt unsettled around certain people, or felt anxious in a room. You’ve heard the phrase: “the tension was so thick, you could cut it with a knife”. That’s a great way of describing disharmonious energy! The magnetic fields

of everyone in a room influence the environment. That’s why we feel vibrant and full of life around some people, and tense, anxious or tired around others – even if they don’t say a word.

This gives whole new meaning to the term “body language”.

Another property of waves that’s extremely valuable in understanding energy healing is entrainment. When two waves of similar frequencies resonate, their frequencies entrain, and they will eventually vibrate at the same rate. One wave increases or decreases the frequency of the other. Two pendulums of equal weight and length that are swinging at different rates will eventually swing together. The wave from one entrains the wave from the other, and they synchronize. The more closely the waves resonate, the more in synch they become.

The concepts of resonance and entrainment form the basis for energy medicine modalities such as Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and many others.

We observe entrainment frequently in nature. A school of fish changes direction in a moment because all the individual fish are acting as one unit. Their fields are entrained, so they move together. We also see this with the “dormitory effect”. Women living in close proximity will have their menstrual cycles together – their biorhythms actually entrain with each other.

ANIMALS ARE VERY SENSITIVE TO ENERGY Dogs and other animals are extremely sensitive to environmental energies. That’s why it is so important to approach an animal with a calm demeanor, and to be mindful of the sounds around him. We may love to watch dramatic sports or political shows, but do we think about how they affect our dogs? The same is true of music.

For example, the Through A Dog’s Ear project was a valuable learning experience for me. We tested calming music in homes, shelters and veterinary hospitals. Over 70% of dogs in kennel

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The “God particle” A huge discovery was recently made when researchers discovered a particle believed to be the Higgs Boson or “God particle”. After years of painstaking work, the Large Hadron Collider in Europe measured this particle.

According to particle physics, every field must have a particle associated with it – the pebble in the pond. We may not be able to see the waves, but if we find the pebble, then we know the waves exist. The Higgs Boson was theorized to be the particle associated with the energy field that connects everything – hence the name God particle. This is one of the most important scientific discoveries of our lifetime, but has received very little press!

Science is close to proving what spiritual teachers have always maintained. We are truly all the same; all species are part of the same “force field”. Human-human and humananimal bonds are not only emotional – they are physical. When we think of someone, or do a distance energy session, we are instantaneously connected because we are one and the same.

…it is so important to approach an animal with a calm demeanor, and to be mindful of the sounds around him. settings and 80% in homes were visibly calmer – many in both groups went to sleep. I now understand the healing power of music, and prescribe it for animals of all kinds. It is also played for our patients during their hospital stays.

The concepts of resonance and entrainment form the basis for energy medicine modalities such as Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and many others. The practitioner’s energy field entrains the patient’s energy field and changes its vibration, allowing the body’s instinctive healing mechanisms to work more efficiently. Every cell in the body has its own energy field and optimum frequency. When all cells are vibrating at their best, the entire body is in tune, which helps it stay healthy.

Studies have shown that people undergoing chemotherapy who received healing touch had more cancer-killing immune cells. The body is no different from an orchestra – when it is in harmony and playing in perfect pitch, the music moves us to a higher place.

Entrainment can occur from the opposite end of the spectrum as well. If we are in a negative state of being – angry, fearful or chaotic – we can entrain others to these vibrations. How we feel and act influences the people and animals around us – positively or negatively. So in order to be an effective practitioner or helpful animal guardian, we must create our own healing energy field. This is accomplished by staying in a heart-centered space – one that is free of judgment. This state of being is peaceful and compassionate, yet very powerful. As our own “orchestras” approach this vibration, we are better able to serve others, including our animal companions.

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Known for its laxative and cell-regenerating properties, aloe vera also contains essential nutrients that may alleviate many chronic health conditions.

By Michele Fortuna and Melissa Plati The incredible aloe vera offers multiple benefits. This family of plants has over 200 varieties; Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller is of the greatest use medicinally. This perennial member of the lily family flourishes in warm climates and has been valued for over 4,000 years.

The aloe leaf consists of three parts: an outer thick dark green rind, the mucus layer (aloin) and the inner leaf (the gel). The substance found within the leaf (which has been used primarily as an OTc laxative) is the aloe latex. it is found between the rind and inner leaf material, and is a bitter, yellow-brown to reddish substance that contains anthraquinones, including a powerful constituent called aloin that acts as the laxative.

Manufacturers remove this substance during raw material processing. The iasc standard for aloin in products for oral consumption is less than 10ppm (parts per million). in products for topical usage, the cosmetic ingredient review established a limit of 50 ppm of aloin, the accepted industry standard. scientists have not yet been able to isolate the component in aloe vera responsible for its healing, moisturizing and cellregenerating powers.

In the US, most marketers of aloe vera products manufacture and sell their products as foods or dietary supplements. As mandated

by FDA regulations and under the DSHEA, such products are not allowed under federal law to display claims that they can be used to cure, treat or mitigate disease, even though there have been studies that show aloe vera has potential as a treatment for certain ailments.

The sum of the parts has the potential to be greater than the whole. in recent times, it has been discovered that the fleshy pulp inside the leaves contains essential nutrients that can alleviate many chronic conditions.

• The most important vitamins in aloe are the antioxidant vitamins c and E, and beta carotene. aloe is also one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12.

• The body requires 22 amino acids – aloe vera gel provides 20. More importantly, it provides essential amino acids that cannot be manufactured by the body and have to be consumed as food. aloe vera helps enhance nutrient absorption and maintain a healthy digestive system.

• Minerals in aloe include magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, chromium, calcium, sodium, potassium and iron.

• The sugars in aloe vera include the important long chain polysaccharides, which boost the immune system.

• The enzymes lipase and protease break down food and aid digestion; carboxypeptidase is involved in the inflammatory process.

• Three main types of plant sterols act as powerful antiinflammatory agents.

• saponins exert a powerful antimicrobial effect against bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts such as candida or “thrush”.

• aloe contains anthraquinones, the most important being aloin and emodin.

They are strong painkillers, and acknowledged to possess anti-bacterial and viruscidal activity. in their pure form, they are very powerful laxatives.

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case studY When my elderly poodle was struck with idiopathic vestibular disease, I feared it might be the end. But with time, care and patience, she gradually regained her sense of balance.

By Sherri Regalbuto

tilley finds her Above: Tilley with the slight head tilt the disease left her with. Right: Tilley recovered enough to be able to play catch again.

suddenly i was awake. “what’s Tilley doing?” my husband asked. i heard heavy panting, so i threw on the light to see Tilley’s head swaying back and forth as she stumbled, trying to get to her feet. i bounded out of bed to hold her up, wondering what the heck was going on. she almost seemed drunk as i tried to balance her enough to stand on her own. she couldn’t do it, so i hoisted her in my arms and headed downstairs. as soon as we got outside, she evacuated everything. since it was the middle of the night, we had no access to the veterinarian and had to wait until morning to take her to the clinic. i spent the time online, and about an hour later, had a pretty good idea what was going on with my old girl. at almost 13 years of age, my standard poodle seemed to have been struck with idiopathic vestibular disease. it’s an inner ear condition that can afflict dogs for reasons other than being old, although it often hits those in their golden years, causing balance issues, dizziness and nausea. i lay Tilley down on her bed and kept one eye on her as i scoured the internet for more information. after reading everything i could find, and viewing many online videos, i was sure we were dealing with vestibular disease.

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fe e t

i learned that one very visible sign is darting eyes. i held Tilley’s head in my hands, looking straight into her eyes. They were darting back and forth very quickly. Poor Tilley continued to vomit throughout the night. i could only imagine how she was feeling; it made me nauseated just thinking about it. we set out for the veterinary clinic at sunup. i told the doctor what i thought Tilley had, and he agreed. it was more than likely idiopathic vestibular disease – unless we saw no sign of improvement within the next three to five days. at that time, we would have to look further into what might be causing Tilley’s symptoms. The vet gave her a shot of anti-nausea medication, which helped a great deal, and we headed for home.

The next few days saw little improvement. Tilley wouldn’t eat on her own, so i bought organic baby food, watered it down and syringed it into her. with her eyes still darting, she could not walk on her own. she had several falls just standing in the yard, so along with her inability to walk she was also afraid. she had no idea what was happening to her. i hovered over her for three full days. when i could not be with her, i kept her safely in a small area with an exercise pen. she was not allowed to wander

anywhere since she might fall and injure herself. i carried her in and out of the house, and upstairs at nighttime.

On day four, Tilley’s eyes slowly stopped darting. This brought with it the first and largest improvement. with her eyes still, she could get to her feet without assistance, although it still took her several days to walk without some help. For another week, she remained confined to the exercise pen when someone wasn’t supervising her.

One day that week, i returned home from an errand and Tilley wagged her tail when i walked through the front door. it was one of the happiest days for me. There comes a point where you know it’s going to be all right; things may not be what they used to be, but we were going to get our Tilley back.

Once we had a week under our belt, Tilley steadily improved. This disease can leave a large range of lasting effects, some of which can leave a dog unable to walk or even recover from the initial onset. But most improve to where they can lead a fairly normal life. we took each day a step at a time, shadowing Tilley’s every move until she could do it all herself. she even conquered the stairs again eventually, although it took her several months. we adjusted our walks and playtimes to accommodate her needs. Our first walk at the park was a monumental event. i remember saying, “come on Tilley, you can do it,” as she cautiously took her first few steps after a ball i rolled two feet in front of her.

There comes a point where you know it’s going to be all right; things may not be what they used to be, but we were going to get our Tilley back. although Tilley’s eyes had stopped darting, there was a change in them. They looked different; a bit droopy and as if they were not completely back to where they once were. This change stayed with her, as did a slight head tilt. (Many dogs are left with a drastic tilt to their heads, but Tilley was lucky.) she was able to walk a straight line (sort of), although had a tendency to stumble and i believe she lived in a crooked world for the rest of her days. Her aim was always off when trying to catch or pick up an item from the ground or our hands. she often fell when she got over-excited. she would forget she had vestibular and take off like in the old days.

Vestibular disease is quite common in older dogs and very scary when it first strikes. Many people, like myself, think at first that it may be the end of their dogs. But as i discovered through our own experience, and a great deal of research, most dogs improve fairly quickly but are left with lasting effects. we were lucky that Tilley’s after-effects were relatively minor, and allowed her to comfortably enjoy the remainder of her golden years. animal wellness

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pink eye

Pooches with

By Amberly Scott Hindler

Conjunctivitis is common in humans, especially young children, but dogs can also contract it. Know the symptoms, and how it can be treated.

Pink eye is something mothers of young children are

familiar with, especially as it spreads quickly through schools.

But dog parents should know that this condition, also called conjunctivitis, is common in canines as well.

While the signature “red eye” known by medical professionals as conjunctival hyperemia looks the same in both humans and dogs, canine conjunctivitis is often stimulated by non-infectious antigens like allergies, while human conjunctivitis is often contagious. However, it can be just as uncomfortable. All you need to do is watch your dog rub his eye along the carpet or couch to understand his discomfort.

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In this article, we’ll look at common causes, symptoms and integrative treatments for conjunctivitis in dogs – as well as signs to watch for that could signal more serious issues, some of which can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Causes of conjunctivitis The conjunctiva lines the inside of the eyelids along with the white part of the eye. “It’s made up of non-keratinized squamous epithelium, and an inner layer of connective tissue,” says veterinarian Dr. Cindy Kneebone. She adds that pink eye occurs when the conjunctiva reacts to any insult (see sidebar). “The result is chemosis (swelling and edema), hyperemia, or cellular

exudation (secretions from the eye that vary in color from clear to yellow or brown).”

conjunctivitis,” says veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Michael Chang, adding that it won’t simply go away on its own. “Any medication should give a rapid response within two to three Does your dog have pink eye? days, with complete resolution of signs within two weeks,” Common symptoms are ocular discharge, a red eye, continues Dr. Kneebone. “Response depends on the and swelling of the conjunctiva, also known as cause. Tumors carry a poorer prognosis and conjunctival edema. While conjunctivitis many eyes are removed because of growths.”

Common does not typically cause severe pain, it symptoms may cause some mild discomfort and Integrative remedies are equally as a r e o c u l a r secondary itchiness. effective as conventional approaches in discharge, a red the treatment of conjunctivitis. “Bacterial It is important to always monitor and viral conjunctivitis respond well to eye, and swelling your dog carefully when he or she is of the conjunctiva, oral lysine,” says Dr. Kneebone. “Topical demonstrating any signs of pink eye. isopathic drops are natural antibiotics. also known as “Conjunctivitis can be a secondary finding Sodium hyaluronate lubricates dry eyes, conjunctival from a number of systemic illnesses such Euphrasia [eyebright] is a topical herbal edema . as leptospirosis, listeria, myeloma, thymoma antibiotic, and and many other inflammatory conditions that complex homeopathic always have other signs such as vomiting, lethargy, drops can be used for general diarrhea or jaundice,” says Dr. Kneebone. Additional signs that red eye and even use the patient’s could indicate a more severe issue include a squinty eye, corneal own serum, which contains edema/aqueous flare (cloudy eye) and resistance to touch. healing properties for the eye.” Warm Get prompt treatment green tea bags “Your dog will need some treatment to cure/control the or Euphrasia tea

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Conjunctivitis triggers

bags, both of which contain antioxidants and tannins, can be applied topically to the eye to soothe the irritation.

• According to Dr. Chang, one common insult to the eye is ocular dryness. In medical terms, dry eye is known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS).

“Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis respond well to oral lysine.”

“Topical nutriceuticals like B complex and amino acids like carnosine help nourish the eye and keep the ocular immunity healthy,” Dr. Kneebone goes on.

• Dr. Chang states that conjunctivitis is also often “Lycium can help moisten the eye and caused by non-infectious agents such as allergies, White Chrysanthemum helps reduce redness.” Both can be hypersensitivity to a foreign object or medication, and administered as a tea to be taken orally. Acupuncture is chronic antigen stimulation. “Allergies to pollen, dust, another known means of treating conjunctivitis; the eye is bacterial toxins and food cause redness, chemosis [and] aligned with the liver, heart, and kidneys in Traditional intense itching and rubbing with swelling around the eye,” Chinese Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Kneebone adds. “Stings and bites from bees, wasps and spiders cause an immediate immune reaction that involves the conjunctiva and the eyelids around both eyes.”

• Tumors on or around the eye can also lead to conjunctivitis.

• Infectious conjunctivitis is less common than non-infectious conjunctivitis and keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and is caused by bacteria, virus, parasites, or in some rare cases, fungal agents.

Canine distemper, for example, an often life-threatening virus, has been known to cause conjunctivitis. “Parasitic conjunctivitis can occur when a small nematode lives in the conjunctival sac causing a purulent discharge, spasm of the eyelids and epiphora,” says Dr. Kneebone. “Tick-related conjunctivitis such as rickettsia causes swelling, redness and small hemorrhages with a mucopurulent discharge.”

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animal wellness

Conjunctivitis in dogs is often a secondary response to a non-infectious or infectious invader, as opposed to something that is contracted from another dog. With that in mind, it is crucial to treat the primary condition stimulating the pink eye, whether it’s as simple as removing an irritant, preventing dry eye with an irrigation solution, or annihilating the distemper virus with more complex treatment.

Healthy eyes are vital to good vision, so taking care of conjunctivitis as soon as it occurs in your dog is a wise course of action, whatever might be causing it.

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Vision health is as important to your dog as it is for you. Animal Necessity’s Ocu-Glo Rx is a canine vision supplement that offers 12 antioxidants, including B vitamins, vitamin C, biotin, lycopene, pantothenic acid and others. Helps protect your pooch’s eyes from uveitis, glaucoma, dry eye, diabetic cataracts, degenerative retinal diseases and more. animalnecessity.com animal wellness

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To the Rescue LoveyLoaves Rescue – rooting for the underdog

Special needs dogs that are also homeless have it extra tough, since the average person looking to adopt usually wants a “sound” and “healthy” animal. But disabled dogs have as much to give as any other canine. Just ask Cheri Wells, who along with her husband founded LoveyLoaves Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and re-homing “speciallyabled” dogs in Orlando, Florida.

Established in 2011, this rescue works with a small network of foster homes to provide loving and supportive environments for dogs during the rehabilitation process. The organization’s ultimate long-term goal is to open a sanctuary, a peaceful haven for special needs dogs to get the medical, emotional and behavioral therapies necessary for them to be placed in permanent homes. In December of last year, LoveyLoaves purchased 17 acres of property for the sanctuary, with a $140,000 target required to complete the facility. The rescue is fully supported by donations.

“There is a great need for organizations that can provide medical care and services for dogs that have been dealt different circumstances in life,” says Cheri. “County shelters are burdened with an overpopulation of dogs, including special needs dogs, and they are struggling to meet the needs of these animals. LoveyLoaves can take those dogs out of the shelter and give them the special attention they require, which frees up a spot for another dog to hopefully be placed in a forever home.”

The organization also educates people about doggie disabilities to help raise awareness of their needs – and that they are just as loving as any other dog. “Recently, we had the pleasure of attending the Central Florida Home & Garden Show in Orlando, where we were able to educate the community on specially-abled dogs with the assistance of Colby, a five-yearold Pomeranian-Corgi mix,” says Cheri.

loveyloaves.com

Animal House Shelter Location: Huntley, IL Year established: 2002 Number of animals saved: Over 23,000 Number of staff/volunteers: Ranges from 25 to 50 Fundraising targets: “To meet – and hopefully exceed – the $1,000,000 yearly overhead needed to operate the shelter,” says Cindy Ritter. “Any excess funds will go toward building a vet clinic of our own to better serve the health needs of our animals, as well as offer healthcare to the animals in our community.”

Objectives and successes: “We take in and care for abused, neglected and abandoned animals – especially those scheduled for euthanasia at other shelters,” says Cindy. “Once rehabilitated, they are carefully matched with prospective adopters. The animals are treated with the comfort and respect they deserve, and we make every effort to ensure they go to the right homes. The best possible veterinary care is given and treatment is never declined if it will give the animal a second chance. Socializing and happiness are of utmost importance. Dogs are walked four to five times daily and cats are housed in a large, free-roam habitat.”

animalhouseshelter.com

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Animal Wellness has supported rescue efforts for almost 15 years and is a proud partner of Best Friends Animal Society. This column honors the work of shelters and rescues across North America.

Helping Homeless Pets

Dog is My CoPilot

Location: Foster homes across Ontario, Canada Year established: 2007 Number of animals saved: Over 2,000 per year Number of staff/volunteers: Over 200 volunteers Fundraising targets: Supported by donations. “We don’t have a specific target but we do as much fund-raising as we can,” says Rob Goddard.

Objectives and successes: “We have a mandate to unite animal rescues across Canada,” says Rob. “We believe that by working together we can save more animals; there is not a day goes by that our network of over 50 rescues isn’t working to help each other save another animal, whether it’s fundraising, transporting an animal, or just providing advice. We have a code of ethics for our dog and cat rescues, we have a group insurance policy and we can accept donations and issue tax receipts on behalf of any of our rescues.”

helpinghomelesspets.com

Location: Jackson Hole, WY Year established: 2012 Number of animals saved: Approximately 1,000 animals a year Number of staff/volunteers: 1 staff member and an active board Fundraising targets: “We have an annual budget of $160,500 and 85% of that goes directly to program costs,” says Judy Zimet. “We keep costs low by having only one employee and a dedication to building cost-effective, full flights.The money is spent re-homing cats and dogs rather than sheltering, euthanizing and disposing of them.”

Objectives and successes: “We fly large groups of animals from areas where they are unwanted to areas where they are in demand and quickly adopted by loving forever homes,” says Judy. “Too many animals have the misfortune of being in the wrong place and are euthanized because of it. We work with established non-profit animal rescue organizations to coordinate flights in the Rocky Mountain and Pacific West regions.”

dogismycopilot.org

Westies in Need Location: Foster homes in Ontario and Quebec Year established: 2009 Number of animals saved: Over 300 Westies in four years Number of staff/volunteers: Two directors and dozens of volunteers Fundraising targets: “We receive no grants or government funding,” says director Corrie Yeoman. “All the funds we raise go to benefiting Westies in need and for paying veterinary expenses. We want people who donate to our cause to feel absolutely certain their funds are going to be used for the dogs we care for.”

Objectives and successes: “We are the largest Westie rescue organization in Canada,” says Corrie. “We operate through a tight-knit network of rescue coordinators and foster homes and provide care for Westies that have been surrendered or are strays, taken from puppy mills or are about to lose their lives in animal control facilities. All our dogs live in nice homes with their foster families until permanent homes can be found, and we do whatever it costs to get sick Westies well again so we can find them loving homes.”

westiesinneed.com animal wellness

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Canine cancer – two views

It’s one of the most common diseases seen in dogs. Homeopathy, along with new discoveries in conventional medicine, are coming to similar conclusions about how to more effectively treat this illness.

By Sue E Armstrong, MA, VetMB, VetMFHom, CertIAVH, MRCVS, RsHom

Heidi was upset when her golden retriever was diagnosed with cancer last year, but she wasn’t all that surprised. Two of her friends also had dogs with cancer, and when she went online to find a support group to help her through her own pooch’s experience, she found thousands of other people in the same situation.

Approximately one in three dogs will die of cancer. Some breeds are more susceptible than others – for example, boxers,

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Bernese mountain dogs and golden retrievers. In my work as a veterinary surgeon and homeopath, I treat cancer cases on a daily basis. Many come to me at an advanced stage in which, from a conventional viewpoint, little more can be done. Over the years, I have developed treatment protocols that use the homeopathic understanding of disease, and that incorporate conventional medicine, supplements and attention to diet as well as homeopathy.

Most believe that the conventional understanding of disease and homeopathy are worlds apart. But the longer I practice, the less I believe this to be so. It’s simply that homeopathy focuses on the underlying energetic/dynamic nature of disease, while conventional thinking mainly concentrates on the physical manifestations of disease.

There is actually no single philosophy of conventional medicine, yet homeopathy has a clear set of laws for the understanding and treatment of disease. Conventional medicine is focused primarily on what we can see – e.g. bacteria, viruses and DNA – and medicines are aimed at either removing the perceived cause of illness or its symptoms through antibiotics, anti-inflammatories or new treatments aimed at the genetic level. The understanding of cancer from both conventional and homeopathic viewpoints is actually starting to converge, with each philosophy arriving at the same conclusion but coming from completely different viewpoints.

THE HOMEOPATHIC VIEW Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) is known as the originator of homeopathy, a complete system of medicine based on the principle of like cures like. It recognises that disease is based on dynamic disturbance affecting the whole individual. The symptoms the body expresses (e.g. pain or vomiting) are in effect the language of the body and the way it reveals disturbance so we can act on it.

Our current conventional understanding of cancer (see below) is confirming for homeopaths just how advanced Hahnemann was in his understanding of disease. Here are two very important principles that Hahnemann understood nearly 200 years ago: Treatment should be based on the individual’s expression of disease – i.e. the symptoms. What this means in cancer terms is that there is no such thing as a homeopathic medicine for, as an example, a carcinoma. The homeopathic medicine must reflect the characteristic symptoms of the individual who has the carcinoma – for instance, restlessness at night, or an ulcerated tumour without pain.

Some diseases that are not treated correctly (they’re suppressed instead) can create chronic illness for the individual that can then be passed on to offspring as an inherited susceptibility. Examples include problems like diabetes, arthritis and colitis. Hahnemann recognised that cancer was a manifestation of chronic disease and that it has two distinct aetiological aspects: • There is a basic inherited susceptibility of an individual to cancer.

• There are exciting/irritational or suppressive causes on both the physical and psychic planes of existence that activate the susceptibility – e.g. injury, burns, drugs, alcohol, improper food, grief or sexual suppression.

Homeopaths recognize cancer as an expression of chronic disease specific to the individual, regardless of the given cancer type, that can be inherited and/or triggered by external causes both emotional and physical.

THE CONVENTIONAL VIEW Genetic level Science is in the process of unravelling DNA, and a high percentage of research funding goes to identifying the genes implicated in diseases such as cancer, and trying to understand how they are regulated. The current conventional viewpoint about the origins of cancer is animal wellness

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Cancer levels are ever rising and we have to be extremely mindful of the chemicals and substances in our environment and the food we feed our dogs.

now fairly uniform and believed to be irrefutably genetic. There is no such thing as a gene for lymphoma or a mast cell tumour; all cancers involve a number of genetic changes known as mutations, and many of the genes involved can be common to a number of different cancers.

There are some interesting observations coming to light at the genetic level that once again confirm what we know at the dynamic/energetic level. For example, the physical manifestation of a certain cancer phenotype (an observable characteristic such as a mast cell tumor or lymphoma, involving different cell types) can result from different sequences of genetic mutation that affect many different biological processes. Therefore, what can appear as a single named cancer can behave differently from the apparently same cancer in another individual. The resulting cancer is but a small part of the story; we are looking at individuality, which is and always has been, central to the understanding of disease from a homeopathic perspective. The conventional conclusion is that commonly affected genes are multifunctional and part of complex interactive networks. So in essence, the more we look at cancer at the genetic level, the more complex and individual it becomes, posing enormous problems for developing generic conventional medicines.

More recently, evidence has been found for the existence of a small number of tumor stem cells that have defined sets of mutations and a set phenotype, and have the ability to promote an environment similar to wound healing that never heals. These cells also have high proliferative potential and can acquire drug resistance. From the homeopathic viewpoint, this may give us an understanding of why so many remedies that have excellent action in cancer cases have also an affinity with injury and trauma – for example, Bellis perennis and Symphytum.

Environmental factors In many studies, environmental causes are thought to account for 90% of cancers. Here are a few examples.

• tobacco smoke (e.g. malignant lymphoma in cats) • Herbicides (e.g. lymphoma in dogs) • insecticides (e.g. transitional cell carcinoma in dogs treated with topical products) • Cyclophosphamide (e.g. bladder cancer in dogs) • urban environment (e.g. lymphoma, tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma, nasal carcinoma) • trauma/chronic inflammation (e.g. sCC, feline eye tumours secondary to chronic uveitis, feline sarcoma – inflammation post vaccination

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It is also suggested that cancer can be caused by so-called epigenetic events that can alter the expression of genes rather than mutating them. In effect, this means there are changes in how the genes are switched on or off. This can occur spontaneously or be heritable, as with gene mutation. It may also go a long way to explain at the physical level how an event like grief can result in the expression of cancer. It could even explain observed changes in offspring caused by the state of the parents at the time of conception. In these examples, the energetic changes may be encountered by the organism ultimately as a chemical change that then alters gene expression.

While heritable factors affect susceptibility, they are only a small part of the story. Environmental influence is well documented as the major factor in tumor production (see sidebar).

The cellular level It’s widely accepted that there are six qualities or common features a cancer cell must have to be successful: 1. Self-sufficiency in growth signals 2. Insensitivity to anti-growth signals 3. The ability to evade apoptosis (natural cell death) 4. Limitless reproductive potential 5. Sustained angiogenesis (new blood vessels being formed from existing ones) 6. The capacity to invade tissues and metastasize This understanding is in many ways the easy part, as it tells us largely what we know at an end result level. It does provide us with clues for developing new material dose treatments – e.g. a lot of new cancer supplements are combinations of substances called adaptogens, which target one of the tricks cancer cells have of avoiding natural cell death. We have of course for many years used treatments such as chemotherapy to act on the rapid reproduction of cancer cells.

It is very important to remember that the mechanisms cancer cells use to gain advantage are all important to some degree to normal healthy cells. This is a big problem for conventional cancer therapy which targets healthy as well as cancer cells.

It’s becoming clear that the future of medicine may lie in the use of bespoke treatments for the individual. This is something homeopathy has always done, and that the conventional world is fast recognising as the way forward. Homeopaths will continue to look at body symptoms as language, while in conventional medicine treatments may involve gene sequencing and medicines affecting the individual array of genes that need switching on or off. Ultimately, it’s the same thing.

In the not-too-distant future, we may look back in disbelief at all the untargeted chemotherapy and radiotherapy currently being used to treat cancer. And that will be a blessing for humans and animals alike. animal wellness

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WarM & fuZZY

The Shaw family with Scout and Belle.

A DOG NAMED

SCOUT

walking in the woods recently, i was befriended by what appeared to be a dog. upon further investigation, however, i soon came to realize that scout isn’t just a dog. Named after his family’s vintage vehicle, he is also an escape artist, an explorer, loyal companion and protector.

By Anabelle Lee Macri

meet another new face that for some reason he is compelled to befriend. “since his backyard is 300 acres, you would think he’d be good with that, but more often than not he can be found escorting groups of schoolchildren on their tour of the indian mounds, “says Jason. “Teachers love him, and so do runners; he just loves people,” adds Jason’s wife, regina.

The shaw family adopted the Burmese/australian shepherd mix from the local Humane society when he was two years old. By the time scout turned three, he started showing an irrepressible tendency for wanderlust. along with Belle, his great Pyrenees friend, he patrols the 300-acre farm where the shaws live in cartersville, georgia – and often roams beyond those borders.

For my own part, i was thinking about my grandfather when all of a sudden, there was scout coming towards me. He immediately cheered up my lonely moment, tongue hanging out, happily trotting along in front of me, beckoning me to follow and chase after him – which of course, i did.

when scout isn’t on home patrol, he visits the Etowah indian Mounds, an ancient burial site adjacent to the family farm. He can also be found at Dellinger Park, which is approximately two miles away. at both places, he enjoys meeting and greeting visitors, and as unofficial tour guide has made many friends of all ages. “i often jump in my truck to pick him up, and on the return ride home, lecture him about wandering off,” Jason shaw laughs. scout appears to listen, but he still heeds the call that apparently can’t be ignored – the one that brings him back to

a tour guide and greeter by day, scout scares away coyotes and other potentially dangerous wildlife at night. according to Jason and regina, both scout and Belle are playful, lovable dogs, but by night, they are very vigilant in their pursuit to protect their family, especially Mia and griffin, the couple’s children. in fact, there isn’t much these dogs are afraid of, although there is one thing scout tries to avoid. “He’ll play in the rain, he loves it, but he doesn’t like thunder or lightening,” Jason says. He adds that he was looking for scout during a storm once, and found

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Photos courtesy of Kimberly Murphy

“HE IS A CHARACTER, A DEFINITE FREE SPIRIT.”

the dog taking cover in the driver’s seat of his truck. Perhaps he was considering making a break for it in an attempt to somehow outmaneuver the storm!

“He is a character, a definite free spirit,” Jason says. “No matter what we’ve tried to do, he gets out. we have an underground fenced area for him, but he tests it and knows when the batteries are running low or have run out. But he also has a tireless sense of loyalty to the family and to Belle. i worry about him sometimes when he goes off, but he is extremely street smart.”

The longest scout has ever been missing was five days, when he took Belle along on a pilgrimage to a dog food plant about four miles away. apparently, scout has a really good sense of smell! Kidding aside, the family was very concerned. “we were really worried, because up until that time neither of them had ever been away for more than half a day,” Jason says. “They must have got lost, and i think it freaked scout out a little because when they were returned to us, some of his hair had turned gray!” He shows me the streak near the dog’s tail. scout appears to be every bit his namesake – he’s an explorer and soldier, combining curiosity with instinct. regardless of his adventurous nature, however, it’s easy to see his favorite place is with his family and Belle, because at the end of his weekly, sometimes daily travels, he wants to be smack dab in the middle of the people he loves most – and the ones who love him most.

“He likes pepperoni,” griffin says, feeding scout a few pieces while chatting with me about his dog, and beaming with pride that his furry friend is so exceptional. scout has certainly embraced many different roles: he’s a selfappointed greeter to area visitors; a trickster when he teases other fenced-in dogs as he passes by on his way to the park; and a brave heart when chasing off an unwanted critter that has found its way into the shaw family garage. But he’s very aware that his most important role is to watch Mia as she chases butterflies in the yard, or to follow griffin as he goes down the slide…because first and foremost he is their very best friend.

Scout is particularly loving and protective of Griffin (pictured here) and Mia.

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By Suzanne Hetts, PhD, CAAB, CVJ and Daniel Estep, PhD, CAAB

FIVE WAYS TO SOOTHE

Poor socialization, abuse, traumatic events and even genetics can cause fear-based behaviors in a dog. You can’t undo his past, but you can help alleviate his anxiety.

JoE and MElissa adoPtEd a younG MiXEd bREEd from a

FOCUS ON THE PRESENT, NOT THE PAST

rescue group. shilo was found as a stray, so no one knows her early history. But her new family is convinced she must have suffered some abuse, because she is anxious, skittish and reacts with fear to many harmless events. she crouches in fear if she is too close to a door when someone opens it, and hides under the coffee table in response to loud noises from the television. she also submissively urinates when meeting new people, and cringes when Joe or Melissa bend down to clip her leash on.

The best way to help dogs we think may have been abused – or any dog showing fear and avoidance behaviors – is to be less concerned about attaching labels to these dogs and to why they are fearful. we don’t have the luxury of a “do over”. we can’t go back in time and give the dog a better early life or “undo” the traumatic or frightening experiences.

POTENTIAL CAUSES while abuse could certainly account for shilo’s fearful behavior, it’s not the only possibility. Because Joe and Melissa don’t have a documented history of her past, and she shows no signs of physical trauma, there are no reliable behavioral criteria to distinguish abusive treatment from several other explanations for shilo’s behaviors (see sidebar on page 64).

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instead, our best bet is to be extremely observant and learn to recognize even subtle signs of fear and anxiety, while at the same time identify the specific environmental events that trigger these reactions. Doing so is the first step in creating effective behavior modification plans, and will be much more helpful than worrying about past events.

Here are five steps we believe are the best ways to help any fearful dog.

1. Have realistic expectations.

Very fearful dogs may never be “normal”. while many fearful or abused dogs recover or improve with time and/or specific treatments, don’t expect them to turn into “social butterflies” or become confident and outgoing in all situations. research shows that dogs acquired from puppy mills, for example, can never be reliably housetrained after spending most of their lives in cages.

Dogs that have experienced a particularly traumatic event, were poorly socialized and/or had limited experiences when young, and those born with genetic predispositions to fearfulness, may never behave like other dogs. if you have a fearful dog, accept the fact that even your best efforts may not make him “normal”.

2. Manage the environment to minimize exposure to frightening situations. repeated exposure to feared conditions maintains the fear, and more importantly, interferes with behavior modification procedures for reducing fearful reactions. continually forcing a dog to be around people, sounds or events that bring out a full intensity fear response will not help him “get over” it. in fact, if a fearful animal can’t avoid or escape frightening situations, aggression can result. if a dog is afraid of so many things that there’s really no conditions in which he can relax and be at ease, then some sort of medication or other remedies may be needed (see step 5).

3. Provide a healthy lifestyle. a good diet, proper veterinary care, exercise and mental stimulation can help any dog deal with the challenges of life. good health will help a fearful or traumatized dog cope with stress. Play and exercise release tension, help the dog relax, provide a sense of control, and improve quality of life.

Continued on page 64.

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Continued from page 63.

4. use behavior modification techniques to reduce reactions to fearful things.

Behavior modification techniques known as desensitization and counter conditioning have an excellent track record in the treatment of all sorts of fears, phobias and anxiety disorders. These procedures involve gradual, controlled exposures to fear-eliciting stimuli, in order to change the emotional state. if a previously feared stimulus becomes the signal for something wonderful, the dog’s reaction will change. when emotional states change, it becomes much easier to also change voluntary behaviors. This

approach, when done correctly, can be very successful in reducing both fearful emotions and behaviors. You may need the help of an experienced and certified behaviorist or behavior consultant to implement this kind of plan. attempting these procedures and doing them incorrectly can make the problem worse.

5. Talk to your veterinarian about medication and investigate natural remedies. if your dog is fearful most of the time, or if environmental management and behavior modification techniques don’t seem to be helping, talk to your veterinarian about additional options. He or she can prescribe anti-anxiety medications that can help temporarily reduce fear so that behavior modification can be successful.

Holistic veterinarians can prescribe specific remedies or dietary supplements, often combined with acupuncture and massage.

Pheromones may help dogs feel more relaxed, and products such as thunderstorm wraps can help keep them calmer in the face of anxiety-producing situations. regardless of what has caused your dog to become fearful, these treatments will help. The sooner you recognize fearful and anxious states in your dog, and identify the situations that trigger them, the more effective treatment will be.

POTENTIAL CAUSES OF FEAR

In our experience, the most likely cause of fear-based behavior is that the dog was not well socialized. Dogs that aren’t exposed at a young age to a variety of people and environments, and to the daily activities of a typical household, often react fearfully because these events are completely novel and unexpected. Wellsocialized dogs can readily adjust to changes, but those that were isolated or neglected during puppyhood have difficulty adapting to anything new and different.

1

A second possibility is that the dog possesses an inherently shy temperament. Data from guide dog breeding programs from as far back as the 1960s shows that fearful puppies tend to become fearful adults, indicating that genetic factors may have a strong influence. Of course, all behaviors result from interactions between genetics and experience, so these first two possibilities are not mutually exclusive.

2

Military working dogs and those that survive natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires or earthquakes are said to suffer from PTSD. Symptoms of canine PTSD are said to be hyper-vigilance, aggression, increased timidity, unwillingness to go places they once felt comfortable, and/or not performing tasks they were previously trained to do.

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It may be simpler – and in the long run more helpful -- to view these symptoms as conditioned fear responses in which previously neutral sights or sounds now predict something bad. This is often the result of conditioned fears. The sound of wind or rain may cause fear because they “predict” a hurricane; to a dog that’s been through a wildfire, the smell of smoke from the barbeque can cause anxiety. Dogs afraid of thunder often show fear of other cues that predict a storm is coming. Harsh or confrontational training techniques that involve physical punishment can produce conditioned fears to any event (such has having a leash put on). animal wellness

feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS for kitties

CAT’S EYE VIEW

Does she have a red or watery eye? One of these common disorders could be the culprit.

Japan’s CAT CAFÉS Check out this trendy new Asian phenomenon!

LESSONS

Lancelot FROM

How a street cat taught his person everything she needed to know about solving feline behaviorfelineproblems. wellness 65

CAT’S

VIEW

By Cindy Kneebone, DVM

A LOOK AT SOME OF THE MOST COMMON OCULAR PROBLEMS IN FELINES. as any kitty lover will tell you, a cat’s eyes can be mesmerizing.

They’re also anatomically different from canine eyes – the elliptical iris opening is the most obvious difference. The conjunctiva of the eye is a feature that remains similar across species, but unlike dogs, conjunctivitis in cats is almost always associated with an infectious cause (see page 50 for more info on conjunctivitis in dogs).

CAUSES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS • Feline herpes virus-1 (FHV-1) can become chronic and recurring. stress is the usual cause of recurrences. The virus replicates in the upper respiratory tract, as well as the cornea and conjunctiva. if the infection is left untreated, secondary bacteria will cause an ocular discharge of ecru or green mucus. The infection is often bilateral. initially, you may notice the cat holding the eye partially or fully shut. The eye may be red with a clear watery discharge. a veterinary diagnosis is crucial, but once you know for sure your cat has FHV-1, begin oral lysine amino acid at 250 mg twice a day at the first sign of winking, and an OTc eye lubricant, preferably containing sodium hyaluronate meant for the eye. Place a drop in the eye every couple of hours until the blinking subsides.

• Chlamydia causes conjunctivitis without any respiratory signs. infection is usually unilateral, causing redness, swelling and serous to purulent eye discharges. infected cats often remain as carriers of mycoplasma, infecting other cats in the household. chlamydia also has zoonotic potential, and can spread to

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humans, especially the chronically ill, very young or elderly. always wash your hands after treating the eyes of an infected cat. conjunctival skin scrapings within the first two weeks of the infection can help with the diagnosis. chronic cases of chlamydia cause the formation of follicles on the conjunctiva – these are tiny raised white or red nodules. conventional treatment usually involves the use of topical antibiotics.

• Bordetella bronchisepticum, and occasionally calicivirus, can also cause conjunctivitis in cats.

• Mycoplasma causes unilateral or bilateral tearing, swollen conjunctiva with follicles, swollen eyelids and thick white secretions called pseudo-membranes. This infection responds to the appropriate antibiotic, both topically or orally.

WHEN CONJUNCTIVITIS BECOMES CHRONIC chronic conjunctivitis causes the goblet cells in the conjunctiva to atrophy, so protective tearing declines and the cat’s eye becomes dry and sticky. if the discharge becomes profuse and changes colour, topical antibiotics or antivirals may be needed from the veterinarian. Do not use OTc ocular antibiotic creams and drops designed for humans. Many contain an antibiotic that has been found to be toxic to cats. symblepheron is a consequence of chronic conjunctivitis in cats. The conjunctiva sticks to the surface of the cornea. it is felt that 50% of symblepheron cases are caused by FHV-1. symblepheron may block tear drainage if the conjunctiva is stuck at the inner corner of the eye. it can prevent the normal Continued on page 68.

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Continued from page 66. movement of the eyeball, and if it sticks over the iris, will block vision. Other causes may be foreign bodies, infection of the globe inside the eye, or some tumors. symblepheron does not need to be surgically corrected if it is not causing any complications to the cat’s vision or eye health. along with conventional medications, which are often necessary to address acute conditions, there are many alternative ways to treat conjunctivitis in cats (see sidebar). To help prevent these common eye problems, feed your cat a high quality meatbased diet, protect him from infectious disease without overvaccinating, and get his eyes checked by a vet at any sign of redness, tearing, discharge or squinting.

EYE UP THESE ALTERNATIVE REMEDIES Some natural medicines offer antibiotic and in some cases antiviral properties.

• ophthalmic preparations of colloidal silver can be very effective for viral and bacterial issues.

• several herbs can be used orally or topically to treat conjunctivitis. They contain active ingredients such as aucubin, berberines and triterpenes.

- Euphrasia has anti-catarrhal, astringent and antiinflammatory properties, and has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal activity. It needs to be used three times a day and must be a solution buffered to meet the eye pH so as not to cause irritation and worsen conjunctivitis.

- Chamomile tea can be used as an eye wash. the flower is soothing, antibacterial and antiinflammatory. use it topically three times a day on the affected eyes.

- Goldenseal has been used in the treatment of chlamydial conjunctivitis in humans.

- Calendula marigold has antiviral and antibacterial properties.

• you can also make your own herbal eyewash, but sterility is imperative. Use a sterile glass jar. Place 4 drops each of Euphrasia officinalis (eyebright), Calendula officinalis and Matracaria recutita (chamomile) from an alcohol-based mother tincture into the jar and pour ¼ cup of boiled distilled water over the drops. Cool and use clean gauze to wipe the affected eyes. Use clean gauze for each eye if the infection is bilateral. Make fresh batches daily.

• For mild eye irritations, or at the beginning of a FHV-1 recurrence, consider a homeopathic product called oculoheel, from Heel. you can purchase it from a health food store or natural pharmacy and use it topically every couple of hours on the affected eye. If there is no improvement, or the eye condition worsens, see your vet.

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He’s the first cat I’ve ever had – and he’s taught me all I need to know about solving feline behavior problems.

Lessons from

LaNCElOT OT

By Katherine E. Tapley

As a first time cat person, I’ve had to learn a lot about feline behavior. My first kitty, Sir Lancelot, came from the SPCA and lived on the streets prior to my adopting him. He’s 14 years old now, but during his lifetime he has displayed many unwanted behaviors: getting into plants and garbage, biting, not wanting to go on the leash, smashing ornaments, trying to

run out the apartment door, jumping up on the counters and tables, and more seriously, trying to suffocate my husband!

Yes, Lancelot is “bad”, but I still love him. I just had to learn to “cat proof” my house and learn some tips on feline behavior modification for cats. Here’s what Lancelot taught me.

• a lot of people make mistakes with cats because they think they will behave the same way as dogs. unlike dogs, however, who form social groups through respect of a pack leader, cats form social groups through the respect of territory.

chewing plants, try spraying them with bitter apple, or put the plants out of reach. i buy kitty grass for lancelot so he can have some legitimate greens. if your cat digs in the soil around houseplants, put aluminum foil or gravel around the plant. Putting popsicle sticks or twigs in the soil may also curb digging.

• Never hit a cat. Your hands should be associated with affection, not corporal punishment. a bottle that squirts water is much better than a slap to remind a cat not to jump on the kitchen table or claw your sofa. However, you have to squirt the cat with water as soon as he misbehaves; if you wait too long, he may not know what he is being corrected for.

• when i first got sir lancelot, i had a large aloe vera plant in the living room. Every morning, i would rise to find that the earth had been pawed all over the carpet. cats are very attracted to houseplants and many plants are poisonous. if your cat is

• “love bites” may be kind of cute, but they can lead to more serious biting. sir lancelot has never broken my skin, but he can nip me quite hard at times when he gets affectionate. This may sound nutty, but i learned that when a cat bites you, you should howl like a cat in pain. although skeptical, i tried it, and believe it or not it does work! lancelot looked at me with a very startled expression, and stopped biting. One note of caution: don’t allow other people to tease your cat or encourage biting. some people like to rub the cat’s belly and get the bite reflex. feline wellness

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Your hands should be associated with affection, not corporal punishment.

• since sir lancelot was a street cat before he came to me, and may have lunched out of garbage cans, i had a terrible time with him knocking our bins over. The only remedy was to get garbage cans with lids. some people even have to hide their garbage cans under sinks in cupboards, or weigh them down with bricks. i haven’t had to go that far, because the lids worked for me.

• when my future husband was sleeping in the airbed on the living room floor, he awoke to find sir lancelot lying across his face. i could just see the tabloid headlines: “cat suffocates fiancé!” a friend who has 12 cats told me this was a blatant act of jealousy on the cat’s part. she explained that just as cats can get jealous of a baby, sir lancelot was jealous of Dave. lance eventually got used to having Dave around and came to love him, after the first murder attempt!

• Training your kitty to go on a leash will not be as easy as training a dog. However, the leash can be a safe way to let a cat go outdoors. start training your cat to a leash when he’s a kitten, if you can. “it could take a few days to perhaps a week to train a cat to a leash, depending on his personality and how often you try the lessons,” says Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinarian specializing in animal behavior.

• when sir lancelot smashed an ornament and had a shard of glass in this mouth, i nearly had a conniption. The only thing that worked was moving ornaments to higher shelves and keeping him away from the area with a squirt gun. Here’s an interesting tidbit: cats can develop a vocabulary of about 100 words, and when my friend saw the squirt gun sitting on a table at the ready, she mentioned the object’s name and guess what? lancelot took off like a shot!

Compromise and patience resulted in a much-loved kitty companion.

Lancelot in a mellow mood. The author has learned how to foil his unwanted behaviors.

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IS KITTY

By Cynthia S. Evans

Emergencies can strike anyplace, anytime, and may mean you have to evacuate your home. Do you have a disaster plan in place for your cat?

Flash floods were being forecast, and Nancy and her family were advised to evacuate. at the time, they didn’t really take the threat seriously, and assumed they’d be home again in a few hours, so they left their three cats behind. But the storm and subsequent flooding were even worse than predicted and they weren’t able to return for a couple of days. Nancy was frantic. “i’ll never do that again,” she shudders. “if we ever have to evacuate again, the cats are coming with us no matter what.” at any time, for many reasons, and sometimes without much warning, you and your cats may experience an emergency situation. it could be anything from a flood, tornado or hurricane to a wildfire, earthquake, prolonged blackout or even a chemical spill. if the situation isn’t safe for you, it’s not safe for your cat. if you have to evacuate, take him with you – as Nancy’s story attests, you can’t know for sure when you’ll be able to return.

Have emergency supplies ready. Keep cat food, water, a litter box (and litter), and blankets in your vehicle, or in an easily accessible plastic tote. in any stressful event, you can help keep your cat calm, warm and dry by draping a blanket over his carrier. also make sure to have an animal first aid kit on hand, as well as veterinarian contact info and pictures of your cat, just

1

in case you get separated. Put individual items in Ziploc bags for best protection. since i do not put collars on my cats, i keep their iD tags attached to the carriers i plan to put them in.

Teach your cat a good consistent recall. This is very important, so practice it often, make it fun, and reward him each time he comes to you. if your cat does not respond to calling, try a clicker, shaker, whistling or clapping, or her favorite toy or treat.

2

Observe how your cat reacts to stressful and unpleasant situations and where he goes to hide when scared. under the bed is a very common hiding place. You don’t want to be searching the house for him if you have to evacuate in a hurry. i want my cats to come to me, and not hide from the unpleasant experience. and when they do, i put them in their carriers.

3

get your cat used to his carrier. i keep a large cat carrier in the bedroom and it’s always open, accessible and inviting, with a soft foam cushion and blanket inside. That way, the cats are used to carriers and it isn’t such a hassle to get them inside.

4 5

Have an animal-friendly place to go. it could be the home of a family member or friend, a boarding kennel or motel that allows animals.

Continued on page 72. feline wellness

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Continued from page 71.

6

conduct an evacuation drill. Have a trial run and make it fun for your cat. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in the event of a real emergency, and what you need to do so you are both prepared. chances are, you may never have to deal with an emergency and evacuation. But making sure you and your cat are prepared anyhow will ensure things go as smoothly and comfortably as possible if it ever does happen.

observe how your cat reacts to stressful situations, and where he goes to hide.

The author has several cat carriers and a stroller for emergencies.

During Hurricane Sandy, I had to evacuate my own cat Magellan, as well as four strays that lived half a mile away. That meant I had to use five adequate cat carriers. a carrier is very important in getting your cat out of harm’s way, and keeping multiple felines separated and calm.

Here’s what my own experience has taught me.

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Smaller carriers made for cats are convenient to transport but not always easy to get a cat into. A medium dog carrier might be better.

I prefer carriers with a hard shell and secure door closures.

Netted cages are lightweight, but keep in mind they don’t offer as much of a protective barrier. As well, zippers can be undone by many cats, including mine.

A backpack cat carrier can be a good idea for some people – I don’t use one because I have a regular backpack I use for supplies.

If you have to evacuate on foot, pet strollers, backpacks or lightweight carriers might be your best bet. But evacuating in a vehicle equipped with five solid-shell carriers was most comfortable for myself and the cats when fleeing sandy.

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By Nadia Ali

Thanks to the phenomenon of “cat cafés”, Japanese feline aficionados can visit with resident kitties while relaxing with a cup of java.

Japan is a cat-loving nation. In 2007, the country’s Pet Food Industry Association stated that it was home to around 13 million kitties – that figure is undoubtedly much higher today. And it would be higher still if the country’s biggest cities were not densely populated areas where many landlords prohibit their residents to have animals. Enter the phenomenon of “cat cafés”, venues that fill a void for many feline lovers by allowing them to visit with resident kitties while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cat cafés have really taken off over the last five years or so, especially in Tokyo, where there are around 40 of these venues. Just two examples are the Curl Up Café (curl-up.net) and the Lie Down Cat Café (nekorobi.jp – “neko” is Japanese for “cat”). They’re warm and comfortable spots, with soft lighting and brightly colored play areas where cat lovers can bond with felines. Most cafés have a selection of about 20 cats of varying breeds, ranging from Persians to Scottish folds, which roam the interior of the venue.

You pay around the equivalent of $8 for half-hour or hourly sessions with the cats, and can learn more about individual kitties through booklets and photos showing their names, and a paragraph or two about their personalities, ages and genders. You are then

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given an ID tag to wear around your neck, and are informed of rules that must be adhered to. For example, no cat food or toys can be brought into the café, and no cats are to be disturbed if they’re sleeping. As well, not all the cats are to be picked up. Even with these rules, Tokyo’s cat cafés are so popular that a weekend visit requires a reservation to avoid disappointment!

Only time will tell if cat cafés catch on in North America, but in the meantime, it’s an increasingly popular way for Japanese residents who aren’t able to have cats at home to interact with their favorite animals.

Photos courtesy of Barbarella Buchner (catnipcamera.com)

Imagine if the next time you dropped into your favorite coffee shop, you were greeted by a group of friendly felines. If you lived in Taiwan, Osaka, and especially Tokyo, it’s something you could experience every day.

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tHe scooP BIG HEARTS Global Pet Foods’ Show Us Your Heart annual fundraiser is in its seventh year.

Every February, all 160 stores select a local shelter to support, and ask customers to donate as little as $1. Global then matches the first dollar of in-store donations with all proceeds going to the shelters. This year’s campaign, supported by Don Cherry and his dog Blue (right), raised over $170,000. globalpetfoods.com

A COMFORTING HUG Here’s a solution for fear or anxiety. Thundershirt’s gentle pressure acts like a comforting hug, relaxing animals during vet visits, storms, etc. Recommended by vets and trainers. Use Thundershirt with ThunderLeash or ThunderTreat when your companion needs extra calming. thundershirt.com

TOP DOGS The American Kennel Club has released its list of the ten most popular dogs for 2012: 1. Labrador retriever 2. German shepherd 3. Golden retriever 4. Beagle 5. Bulldog 6. Yorkshire terrier

FOR WANNABE VETS Do you know a child who wants to become a veterinarian? Kids aged ten to 12 with a passion for animals can experience life as a vet at the Explo Vet Summer Program at St. Mark’s School in Massachusetts. Students take part in everything from measuring vital signs to conducting ultrasounds to learning CPR. explo.org/focus/vet

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7. Boxer 8. Poodle 9. Rotteweiler 10. Dachshund

BEAUTIFUL IDEA Actor Ian Someralder (left), star of The Vampire Diaries, has partnered with eco-maven Josie Maran and her Model Citizen campaign to create a limited edition collection of Argan Oil-infused beauty products. Sales will help build the Ian Somerhalder Foundation and its sanctuary for abused animals. sephora.com, qvc.com, isfoundation.org

SPENDING SPREE The American Pet Products Association estimates animal guardians will spend more than $55 billion on their companions in 2013 – an increase of almost 5% over last year. Here’s the projected breakdown, in billions of dollars: Food: $21.26 Veterinary care: $14.21 Supplies/OTC meds: $13.21

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chiropractic

Ballantrae Animal Hospital Margaret Hacking, DVM Stouffville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 640-6809 Website: www.AnimalWellnessCentre.com Beechmount Animal Hospital Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 888-6590 Website: www.beechmountanhosp.ca

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

Dr. Paul McCutcheon, Dr. Cindy Kneebone & Dr. Anya Yushchenko Visit our website: www.holisticpetvet.com P 416.757.3569 E eyac@holisticpetvet.com

ESSEX ANIMAL HOSPITAL • Chiropractic • Aqua-Therapy • Acupuncture • Chinese Herbalist • Alternative Medicine • Holistic consults • Physical Rehab Dr. Janice Huntingford, DVM, CCRT, CVA, CAVCA 355 Talbot St. N. Essex, ON N8M 2W3 (519) 776-7325 | www.essexanimalhospital.ca

holistic healthcare • In home support by RVTs •Senior pets • Special needs • Hospice Santa Rosa, CA, (707) 695-2500 www.animalrn.com

iNtegratiVe Vets Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 Animal Holistic Care Mark Haimann, DVM Floral Park, NY USA Phone: 718-631-1396 Dr. Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND and Dr. Sasan Haghighat (Hyatt), DVM, CVA North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: holisticveterinarian@gmail.com Website: www.holistic-vet.ca

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animal wellness

Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca

Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care • Acupuncture • Chiropractic •Conventional Medicine •Therapeutic Nutrition •Traditional Chinese Medicine Guelph, Ontario, Canada (519)836-2782 www.GuelphVet.com info@GuelphVet.com Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Hawks Prairie Veterinary Hospital Lacey, WA USA Phone: (360) 459-6556 Email: hawksprairievet@yahoo.com Website: www.hawksprairieveterinaryhospital.com Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643

Home Vet Weston , CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Jody Kincaid, DVM, ND Anthony Animal Clinic Anthony, TX USA Phone: 915-886-4558 Website: www.anthonyanimalclinic.com Mark Newkirk, VMD Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Egg Harbor Township, NJ USA Toll Free: (609) 645-2120 Phone: (609) 645-2120 Website: www.alternativevet.com

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www.rockledgevet.com Secord Animal Hospital Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 486-1700 Email: secordanimalhospital@yahoo.ca Paws to Heal Vet Clinic Vienna, VA USA Phone: (703) 938-2563 Email: info@paws2heal.com Website: www.vetrehab.org Shannon Hines DVM Orchard Animal Clinc Centerville, UT USA Phone: (801) 296-1230 Website: www.outskirtspress.com/holisticpetcare

chiropractic - communicators - holistic healthcare - integrative vets - massage therapy natural products - Reiki therapy - resource directory - schools & wellness education - shelters & rescues

Sharon R. Doolittle DVM Smithsfield, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet SmithRidge Veterinary Services Dr. Marty Goldstein South Salem, NY USA Phone: (914) 533-6066 Website: www.smithridge.com Steven Marsden, DVM Edmonton Holistic Veterinary Clinic Edmonton, AB Canada Phone: 780-436-4944

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“My ultimate goal is not to be needed because every dog or cat has a home.”

By Sandra Murphy

SHE WEARS MULTIPLE HATS AS A NEWS ANCHOR, ACTRESS AND JOURNALIST, BUT STILL FINDS THE TIME AND ENERGY TO ADVOCATE FOR HOMELESS ANIMALS. 80

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w

ith a background like lu ParKEr’s – former Miss usa, actress, journalist and news anchor – you’d think any volunteer job she’d take on at an animal shelter would be pretty cushy. The job she volunteered for? cleaning cages. “i just couldn’t stand the thought of lost and scared dogs sitting in a dirty cage,” she says. “give me a hose and a scrub brush and i’m a cleaning machine.” it might not be something you’d expect a beautiful multi-talented celebrity like lu to do. after all, she’s busy enough as it is. she has appeared on TV shows such as Days of Our Lives and Bones, as well as on the silver screen in The Green Hornet and Winged Creatures, and she currently anchors and reports the news for KTla in los angeles. But in her spare time, lu is a passionate advocate for animals and founder of the lu Parker Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless animals and at-risk youth through education, the arts and community projects. los angeles has six city-run animal shelters; lu put her focus on the south la location starting in early 2009. “The halls were drab but we painted the lobby to brighten things up since it makes the first impression,” she says.

“Project art was born as a way to add color as well as involve kids.” The lu Parker Project, Found animals Foundation, and the city of los angeles partnered with the la’s BEsT after school Enrichment Program to launch the student art project and the resulting work livens up the shelter’s halls.

Not one to hold back, lu got even more involved with the shelter through the creation of Project Picture, which brings in volunteer photographers to work with adoptable dogs and cats. The photos are posted on the lu Parker Project’s Facebook page and tweets are also sent. “we network and have an email list of over 1,000 people,” says lu. “The photos the shelter took were done when the animals arrived, scared and overwhelmed. it was more for record-keeping than to persuade someone to adopt them. Our photographers love

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working with animals. They seem to get the personality of the animals in the shots and that makes them more adoptable. we use props and backdrops, put on bandanas or bows. it’s fun and the dogs love the attention.” she adds that each photo shoot resembles a runway show with someone on hand to brush the animal, put a boa on him and convince the dog to smile or the cat to wave a paw. glossy 8X10s are hung in the lobby to give potential adopters a first glance at who needs a home.

Thanks to the Lu Parker Project, thousands of homeless animals have been adopted over the past three years.

ENOUGH MONEY WAS RAISED IN THE FIRST YEAR TO BUY 144 WATER-RESISTANT, ELEVATED, SHELTER-APPROVED (AND DOG-APPROVED!) BEDS. “we call Project Picture the dating service for dogs and cats,” laughs lu. “Our photos might not get them a ‘dinner date’ but will probably work for a ‘coffee meet’; it gets them noticed and somebody might make the trip to the shelter to meet a dog they’d never know otherwise. it also shows the animals outside the cages and makes the shelter a less intimidating place to go.”

Thanks to the lu Parker Project, thousands of animals have been adopted since its inception in 2010. and as the work gained momentum, additional volunteers arrived to help, including an interior designer, a man who built tables, and someone to calm the animals and fluff their fur for photo shoots. all these people and more came together to make a team.

Have a Heart, Donate a Bed is another brainchild of the lu Parker Project. “The shelter dogs slept on bare floors but when i asked about beds, i was told the dogs would chew them,” says lu. “However, we were able to find a bed that was virtually indestructible. we just had to find a way to buy a lot of them.” Have a Heart, Donate a Bed went into effect in 2011. For Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day, people donate the price of a bed, and in turn, receive a bouquet of flowers.

Enough money was raised in the first year to buy 144 water-resistant, elevated, shelter-approved (and dog-approved!) beds.

“Due to my schedule, i can’t be at the shelter as often as some of the other volunteers who do so much of the work and see more of the negative on a day-to-day basis,” says lu. “But i found that another way to be a voice for animals was in my job as a reporter.” she has twice been honored with a genesis award for outstanding reporting on animal issues such as laboratory testing on beagles and the truth about puppy mills. “i love being able to expose the facts,” says lu. “it makes people aware of the situation. in 2010, i investigated puppy mills and it opened my eyes. i educated myself and the public.

Thanks to protests and legislation, pet stores are closing or working with rescues to get animals adopted. west Hollywood has passed legislation to ban the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores.”

Not surprisingly, lu has animal companions of her own – a terrier mix named Monkey and an 11-year-old cat, both rescues. Monkey even has a job of his own: he reports on inspiring canines for leashline News on youtube.com/petsami (he hired lu as his producer!). Monkey speaks about sheep herding and rehabilitation for disabled dogs, interviews canine heroes, talks to service and therapy dogs, and learns agility.

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lu encourages others to also help animals. “Just get involved, and it will build,” she says. “Do what you can, when you can. clerical work, phone calls, educating others – it all helps. My ultimate goal is not to be needed because every dog or cat has a home.” animal wellness

Skin allergies in his own dogs prompted this entrepreneur to develop an affordable allergy testing kit that covers almost 200 environmental and food triggers.

Rob did his own research to get to the bottom of owen’s and Buddy’s allergies.

PASSING THE TEST rob ryan is no stranger to allergies in his dogs. “My oldest lab, Buddy, came to me with an extreme case of itching that five vets couldn’t figure out,” he says. “My white lab, Owen, also became crippled with skin disorders from allergies.” Driven by a passion to help his dogs, rob started doing some research.

He discovered that available allergy tests for dogs and cats were extremely expensive and didn’t test for enough potential allergens. so he decided to develop his own. “we did five years of r&D to develop the technology we use for immuneiQ,” he says of his animal allergy test kit, available through vetDVM.com, a company rob founded in 2007 that offers affordable, quality veterinarian-approved information and solutions to animal guardians. “we named the test immuneiQ because we believe in testing the total intelligence of the immune system. we have identified over 175 of the most common pet food and environmental allergens, and made them the cornerstone of our allergy test. we also offer four other tests for an additional fee: for toxins, bacteria and viruses, molds, fungi and parasites.”

By Ann Brightman allergies not only make an animal’s life miserable – there’s evidence the long-term inflammation they cause may lead to cancer. “we are giving 5% of every kit we sell to the National canine cancer Foundation,” says rob. “we are also setting up free dog training events and vet clinics around the us that offer western and holistic vet services such as chiropractic and acupuncture. and we are soon coming out with a line of natural, problem-solving skin treatments without chemicals and harsh additives.” rob loves helping people solve their animals’ allergy issues.

“One customer received word her dog tested for high levels of fire retardant,” he says. “she called us, almost incredulous, asking how that could be. we asked her if her dog had a lot of stuffed animals. she was stunned: ‘Oh my god, she has a ton.’ we said it’s highly likely the fire retardant came from them. we recommended some alternatives and ways to detox. Those moments when the customer connects the dots is the best part of my day.”

rob is proud that his company can offer such thorough allergy testing for an affordable $49 per animal. “we send our kits to customers with two collection baggies, one for a saliva sample and another for some hair,” explains rob. “customers send those back to our laboratory and get results in an emailed report. The report has three columns: green for foods your animal loves and the things that aren’t harmful; yellow for the things your animal can tolerate but may be a problem; and red for the things that are bad allergens or may cause a serious reaction or overreaction.” animal wellness

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subMissions froM our readers Left: Jessie & Gia together make quite the duo. You have the perfect balance of the energetic trouble maker (Jessie right) and the lovely responsible Gia (left).

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MR. FACE had about 15 different “pet” names for my miniature schnauzer, Blue, as should any selfrespecting person who “has a dog”. Bloopy, little B, Nutty, Handsome Head...his nicknames went on and on. His most famous, however, was Mr. Face. i’m not quite sure how i came up with that one, but it was the current favorite on the day my friend came with me to my mom’s house where Blue lived. in my excitement to see the little guy, i used the moniker without even realizing.

1 - Love your Life.

My friend, being polite to my mom, didn’t mention Blue’s nickname until the next day at work. But i heard about it then, believe me. we sat across from each other, and in the dead silence of our workplace she looked straight at me and said loudly: “and how’s Miiiiiiiister Face?” she made sure to include my facial expression from the day before in her little impersonation – a slight shaking of the head and a “just look at that face” expression.

2 - heLp the LittLe peopLe. Mr. Face always

Despite all the nicknames i had for him, my little dog taught me a lot during his lifetime. He’s gone now, and i miss him dearly, but i’d like to share the tips i learned from him on how to live life.

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By Brooke Betts

Mr. Face always looked happy, as if he was laughing. anyone who says dogs can’t smile surely never saw my Blue. One of his favorite pastimes was playing with water.

Every time i washed my car, he would bark nonstop until i let him become part of the action and attack the hose. why should he be left out of the fun? and all sprinklers that crossed his path during walks were fair game. He’d race up to them and put his face right in the water.

protected his little sister, Kimi, a black miniature schnauzer a few months younger than him. little B would face dogs three times his size if they threatened little Kim. He conveniently forgot about the times Kimi went outside and started barking just so Blue would go out too, and she could slip back in and get one-on-one attention.

That was family business, according to Blue – no need to air dirty laundry in public. To the world, he presented a consistent attitude: “You mess with my little sis, you mess with me.”

3 - go after your dreams. He lived to go on “walkies”. in fact, when Blue Betts wanted to go for a walk, he really wanted to go for a walk. He would display all the determination of an Olympic athlete.

His internal clock would alert him to the fact that walk time was approaching. If you had forgotten his nightly jaunt, he would be the first to remind you. First, he would sit right in front of you and stare you down. And if you happened to go anywhere near the closet that held the leashes? Forget about doing anything else. Excited barks and wild running would commence. Mr. Face always tried to get you to go on the long walk versus the short one. Walks were his time, after all. Why should he get short-changed? Fair is fair.

4 - Be a gracious host. Whenever visitors came to the house, Blue would get so excited he would bark and run around them in circles for two minutes straight. He really knew how to give people a warm welcome.

5 - Love with all your heart. Mr. Face would tell you he loved you with his eyes, and on a daily basis. He knew perhaps the most important lesson of all: that only love makes the world go round.

6 - Be kind. B had a heart of gold. There wasn’t a mean bone in his body. If another dog growled or snapped at him, he would cock his head as if to say: “Really? But…why? We’re just out here having fun, no reason to start anything! Let’s leave our issues at home, people, it’s party time!”

My cousin once told me I needed to find a man who looked at me the same way Blue did. She was right, too; who couldn’t use that combination of awe and unconditional love in her life?

7 - Trust that everything happens as it should.

When the day came that I had to put Blue to sleep, he definitely knew something was up. But he looked straight into my eyes as if to say: “Hey, it’s okay, this is the right thing.”

8 - Celebrate your individuality. One time, I came home to find Mr. Face sleeping in the bathtub. He wasn’t stuck, he was just hanging out. Another time, I caught him sleeping on a bookshelf – three rows up. The first two rows were filled with books, but Blue saw some prime real estate on that third row.

9 - Empathize with others.

When you were down, Blue felt your pain. His method of comfort was to get close to your face and lick like crazy. I’m convinced he did this to gross you out and make you forget your problems, even if only for a second.

10 - Enjoy the moment.

Mr. Face once grabbed my “to do” list out of my hands and ate it. Who says dogs aren’t smarter than people?

So there you have it, advice and wisdom from Little Blue Betts, dog extraordinaire and one of my greatest teachers. Thanks for choosing me, Mr. Face! animal wellness

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By Claudia Bensimoun

For many dog parents these days, the joy of adopting comes with the knowledge that social media helped them meet their new best friends. At the same time, shelters are attributing their success rates over the last few years to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. Social media keeps adopters, rescuers and shelters connected and engaged in the rescue and no-kill movement. And it’s a trend that’s growing as more and more people make social media a daily part of their lives.

to make a difference by promoting adoption and ultimately finding homes for dogs in need. Here’s how to get started.

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If you’ve ever wanted to get more involved in dog rescue, but aren’t in the position to do it yourself, you can use social media

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F ind out if your local animal shelter has a social media presence. If not, start up a Facebook page for them and get active posting. This is especially important if the shelter isn’t a no-kill facility. Take the opportunity to advertise regularly using Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and/or even a blog. By using your social networking skills to advocate for dog adoption, you help raise awareness of the number of animals that need homes and that get euthanized every year – and this benefits everyone, including the shelter.

2 3 4

ncourage and inspire your friends and colleagues to share their own photos and E stories on your Facebook page. Include success stories rather than tales of tragedy, and show the positive qualities of each dog. Keep in mind that it’s all about sharing and discussing dog rescue information. articipate in Follow Fridays (#FF) and highlight all the people and organizations dedicated P to finding forever homes or foster care for dogs, and showing communities the importance of spaying and neutering, training and the no-kill movement. “It is estimated that 96% of dogs that are surrendered to shelters have not received any obedience training…all the more reason for new parents of rescued animals to invest in professional training,” says Brad Gatewood of PupSpace, a site that offers interactive online training classes. e passionate about what you’re doing. Figure out how to get people engaged so they B too will feel compassion for these rescue animals, and want to help them. Know you are part of a community, and that if you use social media in a conscientious and ethical way to help promote dog rescue, it will work! Ask your followers for support. That simple “please retweet” can go a long way to generating loads more online activity.

Start each social media session with more retweets of dog rescues and shares.

Social media is free and a wonderful tool for dog lovers to communicate with each other, learn about different shelter and rescue organizations and dogs in need, and to donate, foster and adopt animals. It connects animal welfare organizations and volunteers, as well as your friends and fellow animal lovers. Once you’ve established a presence online, even one tweet goes a long way!

Social media in

action

By using Facebook, Twitter, blogs and YouTube, many rescue organizations can get the word out not only about their animals up for adoption, but also to ask for donations, promote special events, etc.

· · · ·

“ Having a chance to profile the animals online is very helpful,” says Ken Okel of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League. “Often it is the accumulation of things like TV, social media, and coming to the shelter that leads someone to us. We also use social media to promote our off-site adoption events.”

Best Friends has a Dog Wall where people share adoption photos, videos, stories, tweets and Facebook messages. Supporters can text photos to the wall instead of logging in to upload their images. “ Butterscotch was sweet but very shy, and people walked by her cage as she hid in the corner,” says Jan Selder of LA Animal Services. “She needed some extra help to be adopted. We posted her picture on Facebook and Twitter and she was also posted by the local news. A potential adopter saw her picture, fell in love and adopted her. Social media gives these animals the expanded media attention they need to find homes. The more people exposed to the wonderful animals we have in our shelters, the more chance they have of adoption. Social media also reaches an audience that may not normally consider visiting an animal shelter. It opens up new doors for adoptions, volunteering and fostering.” et Pardons is a Facebook app that promotes shelter dogs, many of which P are on death row, and helps them find homes. It features each animal with a photo and background information. There is also a section where nokill shelters and rescue groups can post photos. Members can click the “Advocate” button on an animal’s profile, which places the dog’s bulletin on their walls, allowing hundreds if not thousands of people to see it.

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Advertorial

If your dog’s eyes look cloudy, he may have cataracts. Surgery is the treatment of choice, but other alternatives are coming on the scene.

CAN HE SEE

CLEARLY?

By Tracey Lowery, DVM

a cataract is an abnormality of the lens in which an opacity or cloudy change prevents light from reaching the retina. cataracts can be inherited, or can result from injuries, inflammation and internal diseases that affect the eye (such as diabetes mellitus).

They may also be age related.

if you suspect cataracts are forming in your dog’s eyes, call your veterinarian. a complete ocular exam involving all structures of the eye fully evaluates the cataract and the prognosis for surgery. The earlier a cataract patient is seen, the sooner treatment can begin. surgery is recommended for patients whose vision is significantly impaired. it is a common misconception that a cataract must “ripen” or mature before surgery can be performed. This is not the case. in fact, surgery performed on cataracts that have not been present for long carries a better prognosis with a decreased chance of post-operative complications. However, not all cataracts require surgery and if your dog’s vision is not significantly impaired, it may be delayed. cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis after an initial preoperative period (three to five days) of medications administered at home. The procedure involves removing a small circular portion in the clear capsule that surrounds the cataract. Next, an “ultrasonic vacuum” removes all the lens fibers. Finally, an artificial lens is implanted into the lens capsule. The size of the incision is generally less than half a centimeter. with the advent of new therapeutic drugs and microsurgical techniques, the success rate of cataract surgery has improved dramatically. However, potential complications arise in approximately 5% to 10% of patients: • Breakdown of the tissue or suture • Infections • Corneal ulcerations • Corneal scarring, vascularization or mineralization • Inflammation inside the eye (uveitis)

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• Glaucoma • Retinal detachment or degeneration • Bleeding inside the eye • Displacement of intraocular lens implant

some of these complications can lead to discomfort and blindness, but many can be successfully treated and managed with early intervention. adherence to the post-operative medication and recheck schedule is critical to minimizing risk.

Though surgery is the treatment of choice, in some instances it may not be viable. Various antioxidants, eye drops and dietary changes can address the glycation process (which allows damaged proteins to form) and ultimately slow cataract formation. One such product is avid life Os. These drops contain six antioxidants and cellular protectants that work together to inhibit the formation of damaged lens proteins. surgical removal of cataracts is still the treatment of choice among veterinary ophthalmologists, but other options are becoming available.

booK reVieWs TITLE: The Soul of All Living Creatures AUTHOR: Vint Virga, DVM Emergency veterinarian Dr. Vint Virga’s life changed on the day he discovered how simple human contact and compassion could help a dying dog. Just by placing a hand on the dog’s chest, he noticed how the animal seemed comforted and his respiration easier.

In his new book, The Soul of All Living Creatures, Dr. Virga explores our profound connection to animals – from dogs and cats to whales and wolves. Drawing on decades of practice, he demonstrates how by attempting to perceive the world from the perspective of animals, we can enrich our own appreciation of life, improve our relationships and communication, re-examine our values and deepen our spirituality.

By understanding and embracing what we have in common with animals, we can bring deeper meaning and fulfillment to our own lives – and change how we see the creatures we share our lives with.

Publisher: Crown Publishers

TITLE: ACT – Awareness Centered Training AUTHOR: Maureen Ross, MA, CPDT-KA Training your dog doesn’t need to be a chore. In ACT – Awareness Centered Training, certified professional dog trainer Maureen Ross takes a fresh approach to positive training by making it fun as well as instructive.

Ross’s protocol involves joyfully and easily training dogs without fear of right or wrong, while mindfully shaping natural behaviors with socialization and manners – and how to let go of what doesn’t matter by “going with the flow”. You’ll learn how to quickly integrate daily training into your routine by playing something called Doggy Diner, and connect with your dog using body language, breathing and even smiling. Reduce sensory overload with moments of peace and stillness and find out how to creatively balance energy while enhancing well being.

You’ll get as much out of this book as your dog does!

Publisher: Balboa Press

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booK reVieWs TITLE: Dog Decoder WITH: David Alderton Can you tell when your dog is nervous? How does a sick dog’s behavior differ from a healthy one’s? Dog Decoder by animal author David Alderton is a colorful clearlyorganized book designed to help you better understand canine behavior.

It opens with a chapter covering day-to-day activities and behaviors such as resting, playing, attentionseeking, excitement and others. There are sections on how to communicate more effectively with your dog by observing and interpreting his behavior, and how he might act outside the home – including activities like scent marking, meeting other dogs, digging, aggression and attitudes toward wildlife.

Finally, be sure to read the chapter on canines with special attributes, such as drug detection dogs, assistance dogs, and many others. This is a great visual guide to canine behaviors.

Publisher: Barron’s

TITLE: The Complete Book of Home

Remedies for Your Dog AUTHOR: Deborah Mitchell While regular veterinary visits are essential for your dog’s health, there are also things you can do at home to help maintain his wellness. Health journalist Deborah Mitchell writes about these in The Complete Book of Home Remedies for Dogs.

Part I presents the importance of good nutrition – from reading pet food labels and the questionable nutritive quality of commercial foods, to the vitamins and minerals your dog needs, and why. Part II looks in detail at many conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, diabetes and obesity.

Each chapter discusses both conventional medical approaches to the condition as well as natural home remedies to help alleviate it – and also provides advice on when you need to see a vet.

Comprehensive and educational, this book is packed with useful information on taking an integrative approach to your dog’s well being.

Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks

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If you would like to advertise in Ad Spots, please call:1-866-764-1212

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My Crystal Companion Cremains of the life you love, captured in crystal

A beautiful way to remember

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Classifieds Animal Communicators

Distributors/Retailers Wanted

Camille Pukay- Animal Medical Intuitive, Animal Communicator, Psychic Healing, Body Scans, Medium, Animal Reiki Teacher “Let me help you re-balance your animal physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.” www.AnimalReikiDivine.com (816)453-9542

AVIDLIFE PET – is now offering a differentiated product line (once available only to veterinarians), directly to pet retailers and distributors. These products have been developed by veterinarians and are backed by clinical science. Contact AvidLifePet.com or call (888) 984-AVID

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. angelwhispurr@gmail.com

BUDDY BEDS – Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Beds.

Voted “Best Pet Bed” by Pet Age Magazine. Eliminates all painful pressure points. Waterproof liner protects the memory foam. Vet recommended. www.BuddyBeds.com (303) 744-0424

CAROL LYNN ANDERSON (SCHULTZ) – Animal Communicator/Intuitive Healing Support. Interactive, compassionate and insightful Consultations and Guidance for all animal species (including humans). Assistance with emotional, behaviorial, physical, end of life, in spirit, plus lost animals. (815) 531-2850 and SKYPE www.carolschultz. com or www.carol-lynn-anderson.com SHIRLEY SCOTT – Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. www.animaltalkhealing.com (509) 526-5020

Animal Health AMBER TECHNOLOGY LLC - Offering you the best in holistic animal care products. With almost 400 dealers nationwide, over 20 distinct products, and a fantastically positive base of “raving fans” out there whose animals have benefited from Parvaid and the other products developed, Amber Technology is a great choice for keeping your animals healthy! www.ambertech.com ● customerservice@ambertech.com ● (877) 727-8243

Associations CANADIAN ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORKERS ASSOCAITION – A growing group of qualified, complementary practitioners working to maintain the highest standard of Ethical Practice for the benefit of and respect for lives we impact. www.c-amba.org INTERNATIONAL ASS’N OF ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK/ASS’N OF CANINE WATER THERAPY – Welcome trained practitioners of Animal Massage and Bodywork. The IAAMB/ACWT supports and promotes the practitioners of complementary care for animals through networking, continuing education, website, online referrals, newsletters, insurance, annual educational conferences, lobbying and credentialing of schools. www.IAAMB.org

Books & Publications 1000’s OF DOG BOOKS, DVD’S AND TRAINING TOOLS IN STOCK – Ready to ship. Dogwise has what you want! (800) 776-2665; www.dogwise.com

Chiropractic ANIMAL CHIROPRACTIC – Contact Dr. Pip Penrose for your large and small animal’s chiropractic care at pip@ drpip.ca, (519) 276-8800, www.drpip.ca. Caring chiropractic for animals and humans in Stratford and surrounding area.

CANINE LIGHT THERAPY – Many veterinarians and therapists offer their clients the healing benefits of photonic energy with our Equine Light Therapy Pads!

Contact us to learn more about the advantages of offering them through your practice! According to “Gospel”…

Equine Light Therapy/Canine Light Therapy. www. equinelighttherapy.com, questions@equinelighttherapy. com, (615) 293-3025 SOJOURNER FARMS PET PRODUCTS – Our foods offer the superior nutrition of naturally-occurring vitamins, minerals and enzymes that you can’t get from a cooked, processed pellet. No preservatives. Nothing artificial. Just all-natural, human-quality ingredients. Natural food and treats since 1985. Inquires @ www.sojos.com or (612) 343-7262 STOWBEE – Dogs or cats making your bathroom a mess?

Toilet paper storage that’s out of sight? Don’t show it, stow it! Installs in the wall within minutes. Check out www.Stowbee.com THE BARKERY – Interested in selling The Barkery’s handmade, healthy dog treats in your store? Our products are available on line at www.barkery.com, however, please contact us at thebarkery@cyg.net for wholesale information.

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

Investment ANGEL INVESTOR – Animal loving investor(s) sought to purchase 10 acre renowned animal sanctuary, BrightHaven. org. Lifetime, holistic, senior, special needs, hospice care.

San Francisco, Bay Area, CA. Property leaseback sought.

BKR. (925) 451-7288 DRE 000697635

Natural Product Retailers PETS GO NATURAL – Safe toys, eco-friendly beds and collars, natural vitamins and supplements, natural, organic and grain-free food. Feel good about what you buy your pet. Go natural! www.petsgonatural.com

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

44 Church St., Tilton, NH 03276. (603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.com

Rescues & Shelters GREY2K USA Education Fund – National greyhound protection group working to end dog racing nationwide.

Join our team, support us and buy fun dog-themed gifts at GREY2KUSA.org

Holistic Veterinarians

Schools & Training

BEECHMOUNT ANIMAL HOSPITAL - Dr. Kirsten Anderson, DVM. Offering Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Medical Massage, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Cold Laser Therapy. 355 Erb Street W., Waterloo, ON. (519) 888-6590, www.beechmountanhosp.ca

ANIMAL SPIRIT NETWORK (ASN) – Is the premier school for Animal Communication training, offering a Professional Mastery Program as well as a Personal Enrichment Program. Our courses are taught by experts in this growing field and provide rich hands-on, comprehensive skills training for professional animal communicators and anyone passionate about deepening their bond with animals and nature. Learn more at www. animalspiritnetwork.com or info@animalspiritnetwork.com

EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC HOLISTIC CENTRE – Dr. Paul McCutcheon, Dr. Cindy Kneebone & Dr. Anya Yushchenko.

We provide a wide variety of integrative diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Please visit our website to explore our services. www.holisticpetvet.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com (416) 757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7 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) 7767325 Essex, ON. essexanimalhospital@cogeco.net www. essexanimalhospital.ca

INTEGRATED TOUCH THERAPY, INC. – Has taught animal massage to thousands of students from all over the world for over 17 years. Offering intensive, hands-on workshops.

Free Brochure: (800) 251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net www. integratedtouchtherapy.com WALKS ‘N’ WAGS PET FIRST AID – National Leaders in Pet First Aid Certification Courses for dogs and cats. Learn preventative skills and practice emergency bandaging with live wiggly pets. Distance Learning also available. www. walksnwags.com or (800) 298-1152

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. Dr. Smolkin is certified in Animal Chiropractic. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.

Contact Guelph Animal Hospital at (519) 836-2781 or www. quelphvet.com

Animal Wellness Regional Advertising Sales Reps Wanted!

• NY • MA

• PA • FL

• VA • NC

Please send resume to: Jobs@redstonemediagroup.com Attention: Tim Hockley - Publisher

ORDER YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

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

96Animal animal wellness Wellness Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising submitted, make stylistic changes or cancel any advertising accepted upon refund of payment made.

Events CN3005: Canine Anatomy & Behavior Pre-course Ongoing: Distance Study

fun with your four-legged friend and find everything from contests, to large variety of pet products and much more!

This is the required pre-course study guide for our signature Caninology Canine Body Worker Certification courses but anyone can benefit! Course Content includes Anatomy, Veterinary Terminology and Vocabulary, Muscular & Skeletal System as well as Palpating Bony Landmarks and Surface Anatomy.

For more information: (416) 234-WOOF info@woofstock.ca www.woofstock.ca

Please visit website for full course details.

For more information: Kathleen Prasad Animal Reiki Source (415) 420-9783 info@animalreikisource.com www.animalreikisource.com

Fido Fest 2013 June 22, 2013 – Vankleek Hill, ON Come and join in on the fun with this outdoor dog festival!

Featuring demonstrations, vendors of all dog related items as well as food booths for both dogs and their owners and much more.

Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the gate. The festival is open from 9am to 5pm.

Reiki 3 and Animal Reiki Teacher Training June 6, 8 and 9, 2013 – Santa Rosa, CA Held at BrightHaven Holistic Animal Retreat in Santa Rosa, California, this class is for Level II Practitioners interested in learning to teach Reiki and Animal Reiki classes, and Level III Master Teachers interested in deepening their Reiki knowledge and/or adding an Animal Reiki program to their curriculum. Becoming a Shinpiden Level Practitioner is the beginning of a wonderful new chapter in your personal healing journey with animals. This class is unique in its emphasis on traditional Japanese Reiki techniques into Animal Reiki Practice.

For more information: Kathleen Prasad Animal Reiki Source (415) 420-9783 info@animalreikisource.com www.animalreikisource.com

For more information: (613) 678-5086 arberphil@gmail.com Nashville Pet Expo July 13, 2013 – Nashville, TN You will find tons of exhibitors and demonstrations as well as free nail trims. There will be prize giveaways and live entertainment. You can adopt from one of the many Rescue groups and also learn about pet care, volunteerism, grooming, training and much more!

Be sure to check out other Amazing Pet Expo events all year around at www.amazingpetexpos.com For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.nashvillepetexpo.com SuperZoo 2013 July 23-25, 2013 – Las Vegas, NV

Dallas Pet Expo June 8, 2013 – Dallas, TX Fabulous Prize Giveaways & Fun for both the Two-Legged AND Four-Legged!

Dozens of Rescue Groups and a Mega-Adoption Event, Discounted Vaccinations, Micro-chipping and Heartworm & Flea Preventatives, Free Nail Trims, Agility Demonstrations, Live Entertainment, Obedience Demonstrations, Author Readings/Book Signings . The Latest & Greatest Pet Products!

Learn About Pet Care, Volunteerism, Grooming, Pet Behavior & Training, Traveling with your Pet, How You Can Make a Difference, Different Types of Pets/Breeds, Veterinarian FAQ, Fun Activities for You & Your Pet And MUCH MORE! For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.dallaspetexpo.com

Discover fresh ideas, hot new trends and new connections and opportunities when you attend this popular pet industry trade show. It’s the ideal place to get down to business while still having a bit of fun along the way.

For more information: (800) 999-7295 www.superzoo.org Niagara Dog Fest 2013 July 27, 2013 – St. Catharines, ON Come on out and enjoy this festival for dogs and the people who love them! You will find many vendors and exhibitors as well as contests, rescue and charity organizations a BBQ and free grab bags to the first 300 paid admissions. This event is sure to be fun for the whole family!

Admission is $5 and kids under 12 are Free!

Woofstock June 8-9, 2013 – Toronto, ON Woofstock is a free admission event that takes place in the newly expanded location of the historic St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood. Woofstock is the largest outdoor festival for dogs in all of North America. Join in for a weekend of

For more information: niagaradogfest@cogeco.ca www.niagaradogfest.com

Post your event online at: animalwellnessmagazine.com/events

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tail end

Mimzy’s Meditation

By Sasha Foster Mimzy is the result of a two-year search for the perfect small dog. as she was handed to me across the counter on the day of her adoption, her little brown frog legs kicking, tears of joy and maternal responsibility rolled down my face. when my hands wrapped around her barrel chest, i made a promise to love and adore her during every moment of her life.

my lips touched her head. Pressed firmly to my belly, Mimzy melted. as i lengthened my breathing, soft pug-like snorts of contentment filled the dark room. we were both soothed and i smiled. i finally understood what that paw tap really meant.

unless it was a particular kind of moment, of course…for example, when i was writing or meditating and she was slapping her paddle paw on my leg, demanding something i didn’t know how to deliver.

Mimzy comes to the chair and taps her paw.

Now, our conversations at the writing desk are different.

“Yes?” i inquire. “love, please,” says Mimzy.

“look,” i said into her bulging brown eyes. “can’t you see i’m writing a book?”

“Yes,” she seemed to say. “it’s boring.” “well, too bad. if you want a continuous supply of organic dog kibbles, squeaky fluff toys and plenty of sweaters, then i have to do this, so – ” she rudely interrupted with another paw slap. “Boring!” i got fed up. when the words for a book arrive in my mind, i have to write them down or they are lost to the ether. i pointed to the living room. “Mimzy. go.” unfazed by my demand, she remained at my side slapping her right paw, then her left, until i ran out of patience and put her in her crate where she grumbled like the Ewoks from Star Wars.

Mimzy’s demanding behavior followed me everywhere: the kitchen, the bathroom, the back porch – and most frustrating of all – the yoga mat. Most of the time i remembered to put her in her crate, but one night she must have been sleeping in my bed when i sat down because i was in a deep mediation when i felt the slap of her little brown paw. i had never felt that energetic tap from her when my mind was silent, and something shifted within me. suddenly, i welcomed her tiny wild touch. i lifted Mimzy against my chest, nestled her hind feet into my crossed legs, and tucked my chin so

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i stop writing, “what a beautiful idea.” she jumps into my lap and we hug, her round little belly pressed to mine, her wrinkled neck curved across my shoulder. we breathe together for a moment.

Then she’s done. “Thanks,” she says as she jumps down to hunt socks. “i love you too,” i reply.

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