V19I6 (Dec/Jan 2017-18)

ANIMAL WELLNESS

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS

12 DAYS OF holiday fun

WHY SOME EXPERTS SAY

“DELAY the

for you and your dog!

SPAY”

UNDERSTANDING

DOG TALK

SAVING ANIMAL

HURRICANE VICTIMS

WHAT DO HIS BARKS MEAN?

KENNEL

COUGH

– WHY INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS ARE BEST

WHAT’S YOUR DOG’S

PLAY STYLE?

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOYS FOR HER

HARNESSES

Chewy

FULL OF JOIE DE VIVRE, THIS TINY POMERANIAN IS KNOWN THE WORLD OVER FOR HIS PHOTOGENIC QUALITIES – AND HIS SPECIAL BOND WITH CHILDREN.

– WHY THEY’RE ALL THE RAGE

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 Display until January 17, 2018

$6.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 19 ISSUE 6

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

BONUS INSIDE!

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Animal Wellness

December 2017/January 2018

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Contents December 2017/January 2018

Features

18 INTERPRETING

DOG BARKS

Do you know what your dog is telling you when he barks? Understanding something about the pitch, frequency and duration of his barks can help interpret what they mean.

22 WHEN CAN SUPPLEMENTS REPLACE MEDICATIONS IN DOGS AND CATS?

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26 CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOYS FOR YOUR DOG

This kindly Pomeranian is recognized worldwide for his striking “foxlike” features, his special connection with children – and his love for the camera!

Conventional meds can be life-saving in a pet emergency. But when it comes to conditions like allergies, arthritis or infections, natural supplements can often be used instead.

Different dogs have different play styles. When buying toys for your dog, think about the kind of play he enjoys most, and look for something that will satisfy that drive.

29 OUTDOOR WINTER

FUN FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG

Spending time outside doesn’t have to stop because it’s cold or snowy. Here are 5 winter activities you can enjoy together, and what you need to consider before setting out.

34 12 DAYS OF DOG-

FRIENDLY HOLIDAY FUN

Looking for ways to celebrate the season with your dog? We take a page from the traditional holiday carol with 12 days of festive ideas.

38 ARE “PET-FRIENDLY”

ICE MELTS REALLY SAFE?

Just because an ice melt claims to be “petfriendly” doesn’t mean it is. Here’s what to be aware of when looking for safe ways to rid your walks of ice and snow.

42 HARNESSES FOR DOGS

Take a look at the “who, why, what and where” of dog harnesses, and how easy they are to use!

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Animal Wellness

46 POM POM CHEWY

50 IS IT OKAY FOR MY DOG TO EAT SEEDS?

72 HOW ACUPRESSURE CAN HELP ABANDONED DOGS

A dog that has been abandoned often has many issues.

Along with veterinary care and lots of TLC, this simple acupressure session can help address his well-being.

75 KENNEL COUGH

Many of the culinary seeds we incorporate into our own diets – including flax, chia, pumpkin and sunflower – are also healthy choices for our dogs.

Vaccination doesn’t guarantee your dog won’t get kennel cough. Find out why, and how an integrative approach can combat this contagious respiratory disease.

58 SHOULD WE BE DE-SEXING OUR DOGS?

80 THE NATURAL, INDIGENOUS DOG

Spaying/neutering are generally regarded as necessary for controlling dog populations. But new research indicates these procedures can negatively impact canine health.

64 HOW TO MASSAGE

YOUR DOG

Through massage, you’ll see your dog’s anxious or nervous energy melt away, and tightly held muscles relax.

68 SAVING THE LIVES

OF ANIMAL HURRICANE VICTIMS

Rescue groups mobilized to save dogs, cats and other animals during one of the most devastating hurricane seasons on record.

What did dogs look like before they were domesticated and bred into the many different shapes and sizes we see today?

90 THE OREO CAT

Oreo’s multi-faceted career has ranged from appearing as a comic strip character to taking over social media and becoming an ambassador for pet education.

94 BUYING HEALTH INSURANCE FOR YOUR CAT?

A healthy lifestyle can minimize vet bills, but can’t guarantee your cat will never get sick or injured.

Given the high cost of care, buying health insurance for your kitty is a wise idea.

96 WHY CATS SHOULDN’T DRINK MILK

People have been giving milk to their cats for as long as most of us can remember -- but the truth is, it isn’t good for them. Find out why.

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18

Columns

12 Yakkity yak 45 Business profile – Wiggleless

53 Rewind 56 Passages 67 Business profile – Nzymes

78 To the rescue 84

Book reviews

87 Tail end

Departments 8

Editorial

49

Product picks

62

The scoop

70

Animal Wellness resource guide

Tips, contests and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

85

Marketplace

News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine

86

Classifieds

93 Cat chat 98 FW book reviews

Social media Tips, pet photos, and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine Crafts, laughs, and more!

AnimalWellness

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December 2017/January 2018

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VOLUME 19 ISSUE 6

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Staff Writer: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social/Digital Media Manager: Theresa Gannon Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustration: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: @pompomchewy Feline Cover Image Courtesy of: Tina Modugno

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

@pompomchewy Pom Pom Chewy is all set for the holidays! This tiny Pomeranian with the big heart and the foxy face has a very special connection with children, and is also a big hit on social media, where he appears in countless fun photos for his thousands of devoted fans. Turn to page 46 to read his full story.

ON THE FW COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

Tina Modugno It’ll soon be time to celebrate the New Year, and Oreo is all dressed up for the occasion. This elegant feline gentleman, who started out as a sickly stray kitten, now enjoys a multi-faceted career as a celebrity cat and an ambassador for responsible animal guardianship.

Read more on page 90.

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COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nadia Ali Matthew Berk Marybeth Bittel Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Stanley Coren Michael W. Fox, DVM Tami Hendrix Georgia A. Hubley Janice Huntingford, DVM Penny Kittlitz Deanna L. Krantz Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Jo Singer, MSW, CSW, LCSW, (Ret.) Amy Snow Tonya Wilhelm Nancy Zidonis ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Susan Smith Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden SUBMISSIONS: Please email all editorial material to Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at ann@redstonemediagroup.com. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in jpeg, tif 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. You can also mail submissions to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. Please direct other correspondence to info@redstonemediagroup.com.

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES National Accounts Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764 -1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Multimedia Specialist: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Subscription Services Manager: Brittany Tufts, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 brittany@redstonemediagroup.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Libby Sinden classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (866) 764-1212 ext 115 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 Libby at (866) 764-1212 ext 100 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at (705) 742-4596 or e-mail at libby@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2017. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: October 2017.

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

editorial

Holiday magic

In

our house, the holidays still create a sense of wonder. It’s not because of the kids – they’re old enough now that the holiday festivities, while exciting, hold no big surprises. The magic comes from Muffie and Katy, our dog and cat. As soon as we start dragging boxes out of storage, they’re mesmerized.

Muffie dances around, tail wagging, while Katy watches, transfixed, as boxes slowly empty and decorations go up.

Inevitably, Katy ends up hiding in an empty box or behind the tree, then racing through the house, only to find another empty box to hole up in. Muffie, meanwhile, plants herself in the middle of the action and watches expectantly as her stocking is hung with the others on the fireplace. I love seeing this magic unfold through their eyes; it always make me laugh and their enthusiasm is infectious.

I’m sure many of you can relate to my experience and look forward to sharing the holidays with your fur-kids.

For inspiration, we feature articles on five outdoor winter activities you can enjoy with your dog, along with 12 ideas for Fido-friendly holiday fun that will help you bond in the most festive of ways. Looking for gifts for the canines on your list? We provide tips on how to choose toys based on a dog’s play style, and what to look for when shopping for a new harness. And if snow and ice are a big part of winter where you live, be sure to read our article on why “pet-friendly” ice melts may not be as safe as you think.

The adorable little face gracing our cover belongs to none other than Pom Pom Chewy, a tiny Pomeranian whose special bond with children and love for the camera has transformed him into a beloved social media star.

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Animal Wellness

Health articles focus on natural supplements that can be safely used in place of conventional meds; why delaying or even avoiding spay/neuter surgery can benefit your dog’s wellness and longevity; and why an integrative approach is the best way to treat kennel cough. And if you’re both in need of some quiet de-stressing time during the holidays, we offer some tips on how to massage your dog.

This issue also includes a spread on the heroic animal rescue efforts that followed in the wake of one of the most devastating hurricane seasons on record.

The Oreo Cat – another famous social media darling – is the subject of our Feline Wellness cover story. This gorgeous fellow has also appeared as a children’s book character and is an ambassador for responsible pet guardianship. Additional articles in FW focus on why cats shouldn’t drink milk, and why buying pet health insurance for your feline friend is such a good idea.

Have a Healthy Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

Yours in health,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

December 2017/January 2018

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contributors

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1. Veterinarian Dr. Christina Chambreau graduated from the University of Georgia Veterinary College in 1980. She is a founder of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, was on the faculty of the National Center for Homeopathic Summer School and has been the holistic modality adjunct faculty liaison for the Maryland Veterinary Technician Program. Dr. Chambreau is author of Healthy Animal’s Journal and Fleas Be Gone: A Holistic Veterinarian's Guide to Natural Flea Control, coauthor of Homeopathic Repertory: A Tutorial, and Associate Editor of IVC Journal. Turn to page 75 for her article on kennel cough.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Michael W. Fox (drfoxvet.com) writes the nationally syndicated newspaper column “Animal Doctor” and also authored the best-selling books Understanding Your Cat and Supercat: How to Raise the Perfect Feline Companion.

For this issue (page 80), Dr. Fox co-wrote an article on natural, aboriginal dogs and why they’re in danger of extinction.

3. Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier wrote 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.

On page 22, he discusses supplements that can be used in place of conventional meds.

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4. Veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker received her degree from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. She owns/ operates Natural Pet Animal Hospital, Feathers Bird Clinic, TheraPaw Rehabilitation and Pain Management Clinic and Covenant Wildlife Rehabilitation in Illinois. She coauthored Real Food for Healthy Pets and hosts a holistic animal wellness website (mercolahealthypets.com). Read her article about the health benefits of delaying or even avoiding spay/neuter (page 58).

5. Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow are the authors of: ACU-DOG: a Guide to Canine Acupressure and ACU-CAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass Publishers, offering books, manuals, DVDs, apps and meridian charts. Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute provides a 300-hour hands-on and online training program worldwide. Tallgrass is an approved school by the Dept. of Higher Education through the State of Colorado and an approved provider of NCBTMB and NCCAOM CEs. To contact, phone 303-681-3030, visit animalacupressure.com, or email Tallgrass@ animalacupressure.com. See page 72 for their article on how acupressure can help abandoned dogs.

6. Stanley Coren is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Psychology at the University of British Columbia. He is an award-winning behavioral researcher, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. He has written books on dog behavior and human-canine

interactions, and received the Maxwell Medal of Excellence from the Dog Writers Association of America for his book Born to Bark. His newest book is Do Dogs Dream?

Learn how to interpret your dog’s barks in his article on page 18.

7. Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who has traveled the US promoting positive ways of preventing and managing behavior issues with a holistic approach. Named one of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive training methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers group and private dog training classes; provides training and behavior services, and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com).

See page 29 for Tonya’s tips on winter activities for you and your dog.

8. Deanna L. Krantz has worked in animal and environmental protection since the 1970s in the US, Europe, Africa and India and shares her avocation with her husband, veterinarian Dr. Michael W. Fox. For this issue (page 80), she co-wrote an article on natural, aboriginal dogs and why they’re in danger of extinction.

9. Penny Kittlitz is a Canine Massage Therapist in Edmonton, Canada. She graduated from the diploma program in Canine Massage Therapy through Treetops Animal Massage. She is also certified in Pet First Aid. Animal health and well-being have

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always been top of mind for Penny, who has a special desire to help dogs rehabilitate, relax and rejuvenate. Visit her at therapawtic. com, and turn to page 64 for her advice on how to massage your dog.

10. Jo Singer, MSW, CSW,LCSW (Ret.) is a member of the Cat Writer’s Association, and a retired Certified Social Worker and Psychotherapist. She is also a member of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, and recently completed their course, “Pet Loss and Bereavement Counselling”. Jo has been owned by cats for over 40 years, and

shares her Florida home with her husband and three feline friends. On page 94, she writes about health insurance for cats.

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 96), Nadia explains why cats shouldn’t drink milk.

contributors

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Great Lakes region with her husband and rescue dogs. She has spent more than 20 years working to nurture, re-socialize and rehabilitate abused rescues of all breeds, shapes and sizes. Turn to page 50 for her article on healthy seeds you can share with your dog.

Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri.

When she's not writing, she works as a pet sitter. She looks at the dangers that ice melting products pose to pets on page 38.

12. Marybeth Bittel is a freelance writer and marketing consultant who lives in the

December 2017/January 2018

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yakkity yak DOGS IMPROVE LIFE FOR KIDS WITH DISABILITIES Service dogs can vastly improve and enrich the lives of all people living with disabilities. But according to research recently conducted at Oregon State University, dogs are particularly adept at helping kids with disabilities become more active.

Above: Lead author Megan MacDonald is an expert on the movement skills of children with autism spectrum disorder.

Several families were recruited for the study, including a ten-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, and his dog. The initial eight-week intervention involved a supervised physical activity program once a week. For 60 minutes, the boy was invited to engage in activities such as brushing his dog and playing fetch. More challenging tasks eventually taught him the sense of responsibility that comes with caring for an animal companion.

By the end of the intervention, the boy’s quality of life had increased significantly in several areas, including physically, emotionally and socially. Meanwhile, the dog’s behavior and performance on cognitive and physical tasks also improved.

These findings will hopefully encourage families to adopt dogs for the multifaceted benefits they offer their children. oregonstate.edu

GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR SERVICE DOGS Meanwhile, adults with disabilities are reaping the rewards of a new program that matches inmates with dogs destined for service. Retrieving Independence (RI), a Tennessee-based non-profit organization that trains and places top quality service dogs with people living with disabilities, teamed up with TCIX in an arrangement that can only be described as win-win. Each service dog spent 12-16 months with two inmates, learning 100+ cues and spending 600+ hours in training sessions. Retrieving Independence attributes this unique program to the high success rate of their dogs.

RI and TCIX recently held their first graduation ceremony of the year to recognize the accomplishments of 17 inmate trainers and eight dogs. The graduating dogs were subsequently matched with people with disabilities to help them lead fuller, happier lives.

Future graduation ceremonies in partnership with TCIX are slated for April and October of 2018. Nine new service dogs are expected to graduate at each ceremony. retrievingindependence.org

Mack is one of eight service dogs that graduated from Retrieving Independence, in partnership with Turney Center Industrial Complex inmate training program.

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Animal Wellness

Don’t give

turkey

stuffing to your dog – it may

contain onions, raisins or other ingredients that are

toxic to canines.

PREPARING FOR DISASTERS Hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires…so many regions have been devastated lately by large-scale natural disasters. American Humane is urging pet owners to take two simple yet essential steps to ensure you and your animal companions are ready when/if the next catastrophe strikes.

 Don’t forget the basics Your dog or cat should wear a collar and ID tag bearing his name, a cell phone number, and any urgent medical needs. For added assurance, American Humane also recommends microchipping your pet.

 Develop a pet-specific disaster plan and evacuation kit This should include: • An extensive list of safe places – such as emergency animal shelters, pet-friendly hotels, and trusted relatives and friends located in another region – that could house your animals during an emergency • A comfortable pet carrier or crate • A favorite toy or comfort item, like a blanket • One-week supplies of water, non-perishable pet food, and any medications or remedies • Copies of veterinary records and vaccination/titer history • Recent photos of you holding your dog or cat, which can be used to help verify ownership in case of unexpected separation. americanhumane.org

Windshield wiper fluid contains antifreeze

chemicals, such

as ethylene glycol, which are extremely

toxic

to dogs. When

topping up your car, use a funnel to

avoid spills.

DO YOU FEED HIM A RAW DIET? The DOGRISK research group at the University of Helsinki is calling on those who feed or have fed raw diets to their dogs and cats to complete a brief questionnaire. The results will help determine the true incidence of human illness arising from the handling of raw food pet diets. Visit elomake.helsinki.fi/ lomakkeet/80691/lomake.html to complete the survey.

December 2017/January 2018

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yakkity yak A GLOBAL EFFORT TO HELP DOGS AND CATS Young New Yorkers Elizabeth Shafiroff and Lindsey Spielfogel are dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and cats in developing nations. They’re the founders of Global Strays, a non-profit charity, and have so far made several trips to Nicaragua – the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere after Haiti – to visit animal welfare organizations and see the work they do firsthand. They also distribute grants to help feed, sterilize and provide veterinary care to local animals. Often, the women bring needy dogs back to adoptive families in the United States.

Animal advocates Elizabeth Shafiroff (pictured) and Lindsey Spielfogel visit animal rescues throughout Nicaragua to offer their support.

Though Global Strays currently concentrates on Nicaragua, Elizabeth and Lindsey aim to gradually branch out to other countries, including the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Saint Lucia. Over the long term, the women hope to change the culture of animal adoption and pet care in developing countries, and say they want spaying and neutering programs, knowledgeable veterinary care, and compassionate “pet parenting” to become the norm.

TOP CANINE NAMES OF 2017 Looking for a trendy name for your new canine friend? Curious whether your dog’s moniker is among the most popular? Check out the top dog names of 2017!

Consider

wind chill

values when taking your dog for walks on cold days – keep outings short and make sure he’s

protected with a cozy coat.

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December 2017/January 2018

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yakkity yak NEW SUPPORT FOR RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS Redstone Media Group, via its Animal Wellness brand platform, is excited to announce the launch of Rescue Network, a new division dedicated to helping animal rescues, shelters and welfare agencies through effective fundraising, education and marketing support.

“We’re fortunate to have been a leading influence in the pet market for almost 20 years, and now we’re going to continue leading by helping rescues in a more meaningful way,” says Tim Hockley, Group Publisher for Redstone Media Group.

“We welcome any non-profit organization that is helping pets, and encourage them to contact us for more information on how we can help them.”

OVERCOMING BLACK DOG SYNDROME Black dogs have a bad reputation among many people, and are often last to be adopted from shelters. This problem is known as Black Dog Syndrome. To help eliminate the stigma surrounding black dogs, Shaina Fishman, a New York-based photographer, came up with a project to promote the underappreciated beauty of black canines.

Shaina compares the online animal adoption process to online dating; if a photo isn’t great, people often won’t click to read more.

“Shelter staff are not always equipped to take great photos of the animals,” she says. “Black dogs can be hard to photograph if the

camera settings are not right or the photo is not exposed correctly.”

Shaina partnered with Sarah Brasky, Executive Director of Foster Dogs NYC, who recruited 14 black rescue dogs to participate in the photographic project. Since releasing Shaina’s photos of the dogs in August, the women have received plenty of positive feedback – especially from people who have black rescue dogs of their own.

“They are delighted that we’re bringing awareness to the issue,” says Shaina, who hopes her photos will encourage adopters to give black shelter dogs a second look. shainafishman.com/Projects/black-dogs/

After the debut of Shaina’s Black Dogs series, these five rescue puppies were quickly adopted to loving homes.

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Animal Wellness

December 2017/January 2018

17

Interpreting

do

g

s k r

a b

n

ore

By

C ley

n

Sta

Do you know what your dog is trying to tell you when he barks? Understanding something about the pitch, frequency and duration of his barks can help you interpret what they mean.

Barking is an important part of canine communication.

Many people interpret a bark as a threatening sound, meaning something like, “Back off, I bite!� This is not the case, as science and history reveals.

A HISTORY OF BARKING The wild canines that eventually evolved into domestic dogs were initially attracted to humans because our primitive ancestors used to throw the leftover parts from their kills in dumps around the edges of settlements. Opportunistic wolves were happy to grab a free meal, so they began to hang around places where people lived.

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Animal Wellness

Ultimately, these wild canines began to see the village as their territory, too, so they would sound the alarm whenever a stranger or wild beast approached, by barking or yapping. This would alert the residents in time to rally some form of defence, if needed.

As long as dogs were present, the human guards did not need to be as vigilant, thus allowing for more rest and a better lifestyle.

Eventually, someone decided that if a dog’s barking can help protect the village, then a dog in the house can help protect the family. The dog’s bark could serve as a canine burglar alarm, or if the person approaching the house was friendly, a canine doorbell.

Wild canines do not bark much, but domestic dogs do, so people began to select dogs for their barking ability, breeding only the loudest and most vigorous barkers to produce future generations of noisier pups. But it is important to remember that the bark is not meant as an aggressive signal, but rather an alarm. Barks warn people to the approach of something the dog happens to see, hear or smell.

BREAKING DOWN SOUND Most animals appear to use a universal code based on three aspects of the sounds they make: pitch, duration and frequency (or repetition rate).

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itch: Low-pitched sounds, such as a dog’s growl, usually P indicate threats, anger and the possibility of aggression. These are interpreted as meaning, “Stay away from me.” Highpitched sounds mean the opposite; the dog is asking to be allowed to come closer or is suggesting it is safe to approach.

Continued on page 20.

December 2017/January 2018

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BARK VARIATIONS

Since barking is an alarm sound, there is no threat of aggression unless it is mixed with low-pitched growls. Variations include the following common barking patterns: • Rapid strings of two to four barks, with pauses between are the classic “alarm” barking pattern. They mean something like, “Call the pack! There is something going on that should be looked into!”

• A long string of solitary barks, with deliberate pauses between them, suggests a lonely dog asking for companionship.

• A stutter bark, which sounds like “Harrruff!”, is usually presented with front legs flat on the ground and rear end held high.

This simply means, “Let’s play!”

2

Continued from page 19.

D uration: Generally speaking, the longer the sound, the more likely the dog is making a conscious decision about what is happening and what he will do next. The threatening growl of an alpha male with every intention of holding his ground and not backing down will be low-pitched, long and sustained. A growl in shorter bursts and only briefly held indicates an element of fear. The dog is worried about whether he can successfully deal with an attrack.

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requency: Sounds repeated often and at a fast rate indicate F a degree of excitement and urgency, whereas sounds that are spaced out – or not repeated at all – usually indicate a lower level of excitement. An occasional bark or two at the window is only an expression of mild interest. A dog barking in multiple bursts and repeating them many times a minute, on the other hand, feels the situation is important and even a potential crisis.

CONTROLLING UNWANTED BARKING Consider the common situation in which a dog barks in a pattern such as, “Woof-woof…woof-woof…woof-woof.”

This is the commonly heard “call the pack and check this out” pattern. If the noise is disturbing, people often try to quiet the dog by shouting something like, “Be quiet” or “Stop that noise”.

This is exactly the wrong thing to do. The dog interprets the shouting as the same bark pattern he just used himself; in other words, he thinks his person is sounding the alarm. If the human,

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Animal Wellness

as leader of the pack, is joining in the warning, she should not be surprised when her dog begins to bark even more vigorously; the dog simply feels his person’s reactions confirmed he was doing the right thing.

The appropriate way to stop barking is to respond to it as a signal with a specific meaning. The dog wants something investigated, so you should look out the window or check the door, then calmly tell the dog, “Good guarding”, pat his head and call him back. The dog will interpret this sequence and conclude, “I asked the pack leader to check things out and no problem was detected. Therefore, there is no need to continue barking.” So the noise stops.

December 2017/January 2018

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When can

supplements replace medications Conventional meds are sometimes necessary for pets, and can be life-saving in an emergency. But when it comes to conditions like allergies, arthritis or infections, natural supplements can often be used instead of drugs.

in dogs and cats?

D gs Cats

While conventional medications have their place in dog and cat healthcare, holistic alternatives also support healing. Drugs tend to be more important for an acute crisis rather than for chronic maintenance. Unfortunately, veterinarians often prescribe these medications “for life”, and this causes all sorts of problems, including increased costs, and more drugs to treat the side effects arising from the original prescriptions. Thankfully, many supplements can replace drugs for treating various common conditions afflicting pets, such as allergies, arthritis and infections – without the negative side effects. This article looks at some of the supplements I find helpful for my own patients.

ALLERGIES – ANTIOXIDANTS, OMEGA-3S, HERBS Allergic dermatitis is the most common skin problem seen by many veterinarians. Standard therapies include steroids to reduce inflammation and itching, antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections, and antifungals to treat secondary yeast infections.

While any of these therapies can be temporarily helpful, they all have side effects and don’t address the underlying problem. I find several supplements to be helpful for pets with allergies.

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Animal Wellness

By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

• To reduce itching and inflammation, I rely on antioxidants (I use a product called Advance Antioxidant Formula).

Antioxidants fight oxidizing chemicals that are released as a result of inflammation.

• Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically fish oil, also serve to reduce inflammation in the body. One of their mechanisms of action is to become incorporated into cell membranes and produce fewer of the inflammatory chemicals released when cells are damaged.

• I love using herbal remedies to help counteract the effects of inflammatory chemicals. Herbs such as anemarrhena, burdock, rehmannia and dong quai are contained in a liquid supplement I like to use, called Xiao Allergy Drops.

This supplement works so well that I call it a “natural steroid”, since I find it as effective for many pets as prednisone and other steroids.

Burdock

ARTHRITIS – MSM, GLUCOSAMINE, CHONDROITIN, HA Joint problems occur frequently in all dogs and cats, especially as they age, and arthritis is the most common inflammatory joint disorder. But supplements are helpful for pets with any joint issue, including hip dysplasia, back problems (disk disease) and cruciate ligament injuries.

Drugs used to reduce pain in inflamed joints include NSAIDS and opioid-like medications. While these can be helpful, they do have side effects. NSAIDS in particular can damage the GI system, liver and kidneys, and cause further damage to

SUPPLEMENTS FOR

basic HEALTH

Don’t forget about the importance of “basic” supplements that not only maintain health but produce an added effect when used with any of the supplements described in this article. These include topical products to heal skin, and enzymes and probiotics to promote a healthy GI tract (often damaged due to the drugs used for many diseases) and healthy immune system (a large part of the immune system is associated with the GI tract). joint cartilage. They are best used for acute flare-ups in pets maintained on joint supplements, and for end-of-life pain control in pets in a hospice situation.

Some of my favorite supplements for arthritis again include antioxidants and fatty acids, for the same reasons as discussed earlier. Joint-specific supplements, meanwhile, provide “food” for joint constituents such as cartilage:

MSM

• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) provides sulfur to allow collagen healing, strengthening and maintenance, and may have anti-inflammatory activity.

Continued on page 24.

December 2017/January 2018

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Olive Leaf

Continued from page 23.

• Glucosamine sulfate also provides sulfur to allow cartilage healing; in addition, it prevents destruction of cartilage and other joint components.

• Chondroitin sulfate offers anti-inflammatory activity, stimulates the synthesis of proteoglycans in cartilage and hyaluronic acid, and reduces damage to cartilage.

• HA (hyaluronic acid) is an important component of joint cartilage and provides a lubricating action on joint surfaces.

I tend to prefer joint products that contain multiple ingredients, including those listed above. These combination products contain several ingredients and are cheaper and easier to administer than if the ingredients are given separately. My favorite products include Megajoint (a tasty inexpensive treat), Cosequin, Glycoflex and Megaflex. Keep in mind that holistic doctors rarely use joint supplements by themselves, and prefer to add homeopathics, acupuncture, cold laser, and/or chiropractic for a truly functional approach.

INFECTIONS – OLIVE LEAF Since becoming a holistic vet, my use of antibiotics has decreased by about 90%. This is due to two things: correcting the underlying problems that predispose an animal to infection, and using herbs and homeopathics to eliminate all but the most stubborn and serious infections.

• Olive leaf is one of my favorite supplements, especially for pets with yeast infections. It’s great for pets with arthritis and cancer too! Olive leaf extract (as well as olive oil) contains oleuropein (OLE), a polyphenol that protects against oxidative damage and can prevent the production of inflammatory cytokine chemicals. Studies have shown that OLE has antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, yeasts and fungi, including E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans.

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• Herbal AM is a powerful herbal antibacterial formula that I find useful for treating any type of infection, especially those of the skin and bladder. I use it with immune-boosting supplements for extra punch, and often combine it with olive leaf to get broad antibacterial, antifungal and even antiviral activity. Pets whose infections do not respond to this regimen will typically need antibiotics. Even when I use antibiotics, however, I always include Herbal AM for prolonged bacterialfighting action that continues even when the pet has finished his short-term antibiotic regimen.

Before trying any supplement on your pet, make sure a correct diagnosis has been made by a veterinarian. Once that’s done, you’ll likely discover that some of the most common problems afflicting dogs and cats can be easily solved with few to no conventional medications. Last but far from least, for the best results, make sure your pet has a healthy lifestyle that includes a high quality diet and minimal vaccines.

December 2017/January 2018

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Different dogs have different play styles. When buying toys for your dog, think about the kind of play he enjoys most, and look for something that will satisfy that drive.

n i s o o Ch

e h t g

r ight toys for yo

By Emily Watson

Dogs like to be busy, both physically and mentally. Otherwise, boredom, anxiety and even depression can result. Even though today’s dogs are mostly bred to be companion animals, they often retain the instinct to work the way their ancestors did.

Some dogs do still work, of course, but those that don’t use play and toys to help fulfill their need for physical activity and mental stimulation. This means you need to choose toys that best suit

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ur do g

an individual dog’s play style, whether it’s fetching, tugging, chewing, solving puzzles or a combination of these.

What’s your dog’s play style?

Your dog’s play style can depend on several factors, including his breed, or mix of breeds. For example, dogs originally bred for hunting may prefer playing fetch over settling down with

a puzzle toy. Other factors that can influence the way a dog plays include his lifestyle, size, energy levels, age and health.

However your canine companion best likes to play, you’ll find a wide selection of toys designed to meet his needs. Here’s a breakdown of options to help you find the perfect plaything for your pooch.

Toys for the tugger Dogs like terriers and bulldogs have a tendency to tug. If your dog enjoys the challenge that tugging offers, look for a heavy duty rope toy that won’t break under pressure. Fibrous materials like cotton and hemp are ideal. As with all toys, opt for high quality. It might cost a little more, but you’ll be grateful when you don’t have to replace the toy within a week.

Toys for the fetcher Balls and discs are the classic choice for this type of play.

Manual and automatic launchers are another great option. Manual launchers, like Chuckit!, are simple throwing devices that double the distance of a regular toss by catapulting the ball. Automatic devices only require you to drop the ball into a hole in the machine, which then launches it. You can make the game even more interactive for your dog by training him to drop the ball in himself.

Toys for the chewer Many dogs – especially large breeds – love chewing. Look for an eco-friendly product that’s less likely to contain toxic materials that can harm your dog if accidentally ingested. Any toy containing heavy metals such as lead poses a toxicity risk.

Of course, you should always take toys away once they’re damaged. Regardless of what the toy is made of, your dog can choke on small pieces, or cut his tongue and gums on sharp bits of plastic. Kongs and deer antlers are both great options

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Good quality dog toys can….

• improve mental health and development • help with training • teach your dog how to be independent • stimulate his natural instincts • clean his teeth and gums • increase physical activity • deepen your mutual bond • prevent boredom • offer comfort • relieve stress and anxiety

for chewers, as they’re made to withstand excessive chomping.

Kongs and other vessel-style toys can also be stuffed with a healthy snack to keep your dog busier longer.

Toys for the worker Many breeds, like border collies, Bernese mountain dogs and huskies, along with their crosses, like to keep their minds as well as their bodies occupied. For canine workaholics, look for interactive toys that offer a goal to work towards. Again, Kongs are great for this because they can be stuffed with treats as a way to challenge the dog. Try foods such as natural peanut butter and dehydrated sweet potato. Puzzle toys are another effective way to exercise your dog’s mental faculties. They encourage dogs to work for their meals by performing a series of tasks to access the food. Puzzle toys test your dog’s memory, sharpen his recall skills and can keep him occupied for hours.

If your dog spends a lot of time alone, interactive robotic toys can be programmed to keep him busy until you return. Some dispense treats, while others move around to stimulate your dog’s senses and encourage him to keep playing.

When it’s time to crash – toys for the cuddler Like children, a lot of dogs take comfort in sleeping and snuggling with their

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playthings. If your dog matches this description, look for plush toys he can take to bed with him. If he has a tendency to chew, however, monitor him during naptime to ensure he doesn’t decide to destroy his toy upon waking up. If you have to leave him alone, opt for a more solid, non-destructible toy. It might not be as nice to cuddle with, but like a security blanket, its presence can improve your dog’s sleep by offering him a sense of familiarity.

Outdoor winter fun for you and your dog cold snowy

Spending time outside doesn’t have to stop because it’s or . Here are 5 winter activities you can enjoy with your dog, and what you need to consider before setting out.

By Tonya Wilhelm Many people (and their dogs) tend to spend a lot of time indoors during the winter. While it’s best to stay put when the weather is severe, there’s no reason why you can’t head out for some fun and activity when conditions allow. Check out these five fun winter activities you can enjoy with your dog, along with some important tips and considerations.

1

WINTER CAMPING means fewer bugs, fewer crowds, fewer distractions, and more peace and quiet in which to enjoy nature together. Whether you’ll be in a tent, RV or cabin, it's important to make sure you and your dog are prepared with the right supplies. The first step is to pick a dog-friendly campground. If you and your dog are new to winter camping, or to camping in general, start by planning a short trip – maybe just one night to begin with. It’s also be a good idea to have a backup plan – a dogfriendly hotel you could retreat to in case camping in the cold is just a little too much for you or your dog.

current ID tag, a harness and leash, poop bags, towels and a first aid kit – and don’t forget winter apparel, such as a couple of warm, moisture-proof dog coats, dog boots and some cozy bedding.

It's important to double-check the weather forecast before you head out. The last thing you want during your camping trip is a winter storm or unbearably cold conditions.

Continued on page 30.

The right winter camping gear is essential. For your dog, pack water, an extra day of food, healthy treats, bowls, vet records, a December 2017/January 2018

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Continued from page 29.

2

WINTER HIKING is another ideal way for you and your dog to enjoy the great outdoors and get some healthy physical exercise. When choosing a trail, make sure it’s dog-friendly, and consider your dog’s limits when deciding on trail length. Consider using an active trail; since winter hiking isn't as popular as summer hiking, you’re unlikely to be crowded by other users, but at the same time you won't be as isolated as you would on a trail that’s not as well-used.

Keep your dog on a leash, especially if the trail is also being used by skiers, snowmobilers and other hikers and dog owners.

Make sure your dog isn’t going to be spooked by the noise and speed of snowmobiles. If your hiking trail is a bit more remote, check in with the ranger station prior to hitting the trail. Your gear should include a small spot beacon, first aid kit, trail map, water, power food and pepper spray. Boots for your dog are also a good idea if ice might be an issue.

3

SKIJORING is a cross between cross country skiing and dog-sledding.

The dog wears a sledding harness which is attached to your waist while you ski. You and your dog work as a team: you use ski poles and your dog helps by pulling. If you have more than one dog, no problem – more than one dog can skijor at a time.

This is a vigorous activity, so your dog should weigh at least 35 pounds, be athletic and in good health, over 18 months of age, full of energy, and with a love for running.

The best way to start is to do an internet search for local skijoring clubs – talking with experienced people will help you learn how to participate safely in this activity.

As a bonus, you and your dog will meet more likeminded enthusiasts.

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CONSIDER YOUR DOG’S BREED AND SIZE Not all dogs are suited to spending long periods outside in cold or snowy weather. Be sure to consider your dog’s breed, size, age and health status before subjecting him to the challenging weather conditions of winter. Active breeds such as Labs, retrievers, huskies, hounds, beagles and their crosses will probably enjoy every moment of your outings. But Chihuahuas, pugs and other very small or brachycephalic dogs aren’t as rugged and won’t do well with prolonged exposure to the cold. Similarly, if your dog is a senior and/or has health problems, check with your veterinarian before planning any lengthy outdoor activity.

4

5

ROAD TRIPS are always on the table when weather permits, and might be a better choice for dogs with less physical stamina (see sidebar on opposite page). You don't have to venture too far from home; just pick a community you haven't explored before. Hop online to research what sorts of dog-friendly activities the town or city offers, such as parks, hotels or dog-friendly stores. You might go for a day, or a whole weekend. Again, make sure you bring along weatherproof doggy apparel, poop bags, ID, water, food and treats.

OUTDOOR TRICK TRAINING is a good way to combine exercise and fresh air with learning and fun, and you can do it right in your own backyard. It’s another option for dogs that don’t have enough stamina for camping, hiking or skijoring.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to teaching your dog tricks. Using positive, rewardbased training, you can easily teach your dog to roll over, wave or bow, roll a ball with his nose, or weave between your legs. Teaching your dog behaviors such as sitting pretty, backing up, and spinning can increase his mobility, strength and coordination.

If there’s enough snow, build up some simple jumps or ramps to create a mini-agility course. Avoid icy areas, where your dog might slip and hurt himself.

Every moment you can get outdoors and have fun with your dog counts – their lives are way too short to miss out on a quarter of the year because of the weather!

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Holiday GIFT GUIDE Don’t forget bluestem in your pet’s stocking this Christmas!

It’s not just bad breath, it’s bacteria. Only bluestem™ products contain coactiv+™ - scientifically formulated to break down biofilm, where harmful bacteria multiply, and help fight plaque and tartar.

100% food grade ingredients make it safe and effective for daily use.

BluestemPets.com

Sleepypod mobile pet bed The multifunctional Sleepypod transitions from a pet bed to a carrier and even a car seat. This transformative carrier helps to alleviate stress when traveling because a pet is always traveling in his everyday bed.

It was rigorously crash-tested, earning a 5 Star safety rating from Center for Pet Safety.

Sleepypod.com

100% Organic Flea & Tick Spray New Zealand Made — Goodness You Can Smell!

With subtle hints of Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, and Thyme, you will notice at once how delectable Wishbone foods smell. Each bag of Wishbone is gently made in small batches, respecting the natural goodness of the fresh ingredients. Serve your pet Wishbone and they will taste the difference!

WishbonePet.com

Coziest Armarkat Tree Yet Debuts in New Neutral Burgundy The gift that shows your love! Just under 70" tall, it's narrow enough for a corner but strong enough for 2-3 cats. With high and low perches, a thick sisal rope swing and a large, easy-access condo. The coverings are ulta rich, thick faux fur in a burgundy tone that blends well with most decors. Assembly is easy with Allen wrench and hardware provided. Order online or your favorite e-tailer!

Armarkat.com

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De-Stress your pet this holiday season Holiday stress can take a toll on your pets.

Help them relax through the hustle and bustle with LifeFORCE Stress Relief Spray!

This calming blend of flower essences will soothe your anxious pet and improve his well-being so that he can enjoy the festivities without the fear!

Use code: AWFREE for free shipping!

AnimalWellnessMarket.com

Defend your dog against fleas and ticks with this new chemical-free product! According to renowned holistic veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa, Ruff on Bugs works "Unfailingly and consistently". Stop harming your dog with conventional spot-on treatments and pills, and combat pests the natural way! Use promo code HAPPYDOG for 10% off!

RuffOnBugs.com

Speciiasilng advertture fea REX SPECSTM DOG GOGGLES Whether your pup loves to stick their head out the car window, flush birds from the brush, or spend hours exploring in the sun, Rex Specs™ keep their eyes protected! Rex Specs are highly durable, comfortable, impact resistant and rated UV400 for maximum protection. Get 15% OFF with code ANIMALWELLNESS. RexSpecs.com

Cozy and fun

Even Santa needs an extra hand!

Heart emoji and smiling cat emoji come to life: this Love Cat Tower by Square Paws is made of solid plywood, woven sisal, and comes with brown carpeted base and a choice of red or pink heart carpeting. Measuring 24” x 24” x 34” high when assembled, this cat tower will give your kitty a great place to bob, weave, scratch and nap, all the while giving you a striking piece of art to add to your home décor.

SquarePaws.com

Healthy, brilliant smile for the holidays!

What to do first this holiday season...walk the dog, go shopping, visit family, deliver gifts? You can do it all with Smoochy Poochy’s versatile hands free leash.

PetsFuture.com info@smoochypoochy. com 416 407 8898

Take his dental health from average to ahhhh-mazing this holiday season with LifeFORCE Total Oral Care.

This alcohol-free 100% all-natural solution works to soften plaque, heal gum tissue and leave your dogs’ breath minty fresh.

Use code: AWFREE for free shipping!

AnimalWellnessMarket.com

Clickit Sport safety harness Clickit Sport safety harness is packed with technology to help reduce the risk of injury to dogs in car accidents. It was rigorously crash-tested, earning a 5 Star safety rating from Center for Pet Safety. When outside of the car, Clickit Sport can be used as a walking harness.

Sleepypod.com

We Go to The Ends of The Earth to Source the Best Ingredients!

Addiction owns and operates New Zealand’s largest dry pet food plant. We only use holistic, natural ingredients along with innovative, premium proteins in our dog and cat foods. Using sustainable farming methods and the most rigorous agricultural and manufacturing standards in the world, we always put your pet first!

AddictionFoods.com December 2017/January 2018

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12 DAYS of dog-friendly holiday fun

By Emily Watson

Looking for ways to celebrate the season with your dog? We take a page from the traditional holiday carol with 12 days of festive ideas.

Our dogs may not care much about holiday music, but they love spending time with us, and that doesn’t change during the festive season. Here are a dozen fun and simple ways you can share the merriment with your dog over the “Twelve Days of Christmas”.

On the

first day….bake some goodies

Holiday baking isn’t just for the two-legged. Popular seasonal ingredients like cinnamon, mint, turkey and cranberries are great for canine health, and make yummy additions to drool-worthy dog treats. Get your pooch involved in the process by making him the official taste tester, and let him clean up whatever ingredients “accidentally” fall to the floor.

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Tip: dog-friendly recipes!

Visit animalwellnessmagazine.com/cookbook for 50+

On the

second day…visit a holiday market

Not all dogs love crowds. But if your pooch is a social butterfly, holiday markets are a fun and festive way to spend an afternoon.

First make sure the market allows pets, then spend a couple hours checking out all the vendors. The sights and smells will stimulate your dog’s mind and help teach him good behavior in busy environments. Plus, it’ll give you the chance to do some holiday shopping!

On the

third day…throw a pup party

Know friends with dogs? Celebrate the season by hosting a pup party! Ask everyone to bring a toy or accessory and participate in a fun secret Santa just for the dogs. Next, let the canines play

while you and your guests enjoy a few appetizers or a potluck.

When all is said and done, everyone will leave happy and satisfied. Plus, you’ll go down in history for throwing the cutest party in town!

Tip: loud ones! If you take your dog to meet Santa,

Some dogs are frightened by strangers, especially

remember that this jolly holiday character isn’t as familiar to him as he is to you. Take it slow and don’t force him to sit on Santa’s lap.

On the

On the

fourth day…take your dog to see Santa

This classic holiday activity is no longer just for kids.

Many animal rescues and pet stores have begun holding “meet Santa” events for dogs. Some organizations ask for donations to help support animals in need and promote adoption, while others host the events as a thank you to their customers. Either way, it’ll make for some adorable photos of your pup.

fifth day…fetch a tree

Cutting down your own tree is a beloved family tradition, and it’s even better if your dog can come along with you. Find a tree farm near you and give them a call to confirm that dogs are allowed. Once you’ve retrieved the perfect tree, ask about donating some extra cash for a new tree to be planted, or plant one yourself at home. It’ll benefit the environment and give you and your dog more time to enjoy the crisp winter air.

Continued on page 36.

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SPREADING THE JOY

Continued from page 35.

On the

sixth day…watch holiday classics

Everybody enjoys a “Netflix and Chill” date – including your canine companion. The hustle and bustle of the holidays can become overwhelming, especially if your days are jampacked with dinners and events. Set aside a day to cuddle up on the couch with your pooch, some healthy snacks and a stack of your favorite holiday films. Santa Paws, Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure and A Charlie Brown Christmas all feature four-legged stars.

On the

seventh day…go shopping together

Many retail stores have opened their doors to dogs. Popular chains like Abercrombie and Fitch, Sephora, Pottery Barn, Bath and Body Works, Barnes and Noble and even Macy’s all boast dog-friendly locations. If you don’t want to subject your dog to the holiday madness in-store, take her out for some window shopping. Roam the streets and keep a running list of gift ideas you can grab at a later date.

If you want to do more for dogs and other animals in need, spread the holiday cheer by giving to a local shelter, or donating food, toys or a bed. If you have some free time, consider volunteering. Many animal shelters and rescue organizations host fundraising events over the holidays, or you can help by walking the dogs, playing with the cats, or taking on other tasks.

On the

ninth day…take a tour to admire the lights

Chances are, both you and your dog could use some exercise to burn off those extra holiday calories! Almost every community has a few neighborhoods known for being the best-lit. Take an evening stroll and admire the beautiful decorations, or take your dog for a drive if you’ve already met your exercise criteria for the day. He’ll love the quality time with you – and you’ll get some great ideas for decking your own halls.

On the

tenth day…snap some holiday photos

The holidays aren’t complete without a few snapshots of the family wearing tacky festive get-ups and paper hats. So grab your camera and capture some jolly memories! If your pooch enjoys dressing up, buy him his own holiday outfit and encourage him to pose by enticing him with a slice of turkey or cheese. If all goes well, you can even use one of the photos as the backdrop for your annual holiday card.

On the

eleventh day...set some New Year’s goals

If you haven’t thought about your plans for next year, now is the time to do it! Once you’ve set your own goals, write down some resolutions for your pup. For example, the New Year is a great time to switch your furry friend to a higher quality food, teach him a few new behaviors, or simply commit to spending more quality time with him. Stick the list on the refrigerator as a year-round reminder that your dog deserves the best.

On the

eighth day…enjoy a parade

As long as your dog is okay with loud noises and won’t be frightened by bands and large colorful floats, a parade can make for a barking good time! Keep your pooch from getting antsy by walking against the direction of the parade. This way, you’ll still see everything… and you’ll see it faster!

Tip: cozy sweater or canine coat.

If it’a cold day, be sure your dog is protected with a

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Animal Wellness

On the

twelfth day…get away from it all

The holidays are stressful as well as exciting, so you need to make sure you give yourself – and your dog – some R&R. Why not head to a B&B for a night? Bed and breakfasts offer you a chance to recuperate from the year gone by – and they’re only one of many accommodation options that often welcome dogs.

Tip: before booking.

Always remember to confirm pet policies

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D gs Cats

“pet-friendly” ARE

ICE MELTS REALLY SAFE?

By Sandra Murphy and Ann Brightman

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Animal Wellness

JUST BECAUSE AN ICE MELT CLAIMS TO BE “PETFRIENDLY” DOESN’T MEAN IT IS. HERE’S WHAT TO BE AWARE OF WHEN LOOKING FOR SAFE WAYS TO RID YOUR WALKS OF ICE AND SNOW. Keeping walkways, porches and driveways clear of ice and snow is a big issue during the winter in many regions. The problem is, many of the products we use for this purpose aren’t good for our pets (or the environment). They can irritate delicate paw pads, as well as cause digestive upsets and worse if they’re ingested when the animal licks his feet. What should you avoid when choosing an ice melt product, and what are the safest solutions?

LOOK AT THE INGREDIENTS Although some ice-melts claim to be “pet-safe” or “pet-friendly”, it’s important to look beyond the front of the bag or container and read the ingredient label before making a decision. “Many ice melts available on the market are not safe for the environment, nor for our furry friends,” says Adam DeYoung of Natural Alternatives. “Ice melts aren’t regulated. Products can claim to be pet-safe while containing harmful ingredients. It pays to understand the label and know what to look for or avoid.”

• “Solid ice melts contain a vast array of ingredients that can potentially be harmful to our pets,” says Dr. Teri Skadron, a veterinarian who often sees pets with feet irritated by ice melt products. “Avoid sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium salts – such as calcium chloride which is also known as rock

“Cleaning paws is one of the most important things we can do to protect our pets during wintry weather.”

December 2017/January 2018

39

Alternative SOLUTIONS TO

Urea

COMMERCIAL ICE MELTS

Continued from page 39.

Magnesium

So what’s the answer? How do you get rid of snow and ice while also protecting your dog or cat from harmful chemicals?

• Natural Alternatives (natural-alternative.com) is one company that offers an ice melt made from a blend of non-toxic chlorides.

• Sally Morgan, a holistic physical therapist for pets, uses a multipronged approach to getting rid of ice. “I clear the steps as soon as they become snowy or icy,” she says. “I also have mats for people to wipe their boots on, and towels for wiping paws.” She also uses Kosher salt to break the surface of the ice, and then scrapes it away with a shovel.

• “Cleaning paws is one of the most important things we can do to protect our pets during wintry weather,” says Dr. Skadron.

Use a damp cloth or towel to thoroughly clean off all four feet.

• Cat litter is often used for traction on sidewalks and steps, although it does nothing to melt ice or snow. In a pinch, it’s better than risking a fall, but be aware that it’s messy – it sticks to shoes and paws and is carried into the house, leaving gloppy footprints on floors. “I prefer sand if I have it, but it tracks into the house too,” Sally says. “A friend uses the ash from her woodstove, which when swept off helps the garden, but again, it makes a mess in the house.”

• If you have to use a chemical ice melt, try having your dog wear boots outside (and while on walks). “Teaching your dog to wear boots will help,” says Jessica O'Neill, a canine behavior specialist.

“Avoid frequently travelled streets and walkways where salting is heavy. Instead, choose parks and trails.” Boots are available in all sizes; aside from protecting your dog’s feet from ice melts, they prevent snowballs from forming in the hair between his toes, and offer protection against the cold.

• Boots aren’t really an option for cats. Many cats are indooronly, so ice melts aren’t an issue for them, but if your cat goes outside, the best way to protect him is to wipe his feet when he comes back in. Even if you don’t use commercial ice melts yourself, your neighbors might.

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salt – calcium magnesium acetate, and calcium carbonate. We typically receive complaints of infection and irritation to paws, especially in dogs with ‘feathering’ between the toes.”

• Rock salt is readily available and inexpensive, so it’s the go-to ice melt for many people. It’s effective for melting ice and snow, but the runoff can kill grass and plants, increase salt levels in our soil and water – and can cause a burning sensation on your pet’s paws and skin. And since animals lick their feet to ease irritation, they then ingest the salt, which can cause health problems.

Tracked into the house, meanwhile, it can stain floors and is slippery when wet.

• Coated urea is also found in many ice melts and may be touted as petsafe. However, it’s an ingredient used in fertilizers and can burn paws. It also doesn’t work well at melting ice.

Symptoms of ingestion may include tremors or weakness.

“The bottom line is, choose a product carefully and limit your pet's exposure to potentially harmful chemicals,” says Dr. Skadron (see sidebar at left). With a little care and oversight, your animal companion can enjoy being outside without risk.

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Harnesses for dogs By Emily Watson

Take a look at the “who, why, what and where” of dog harnesses, and how easy they are to use!

Walking offers multiple benefits to you and your dog. It builds strong bones and joints, prevents obesity, pumps toxins out of the body, and even increases longevity. So why not invest in the best walking gear? Whether you’re upgrading your dog’s current harness or looking into harnesses for the first time, this article will answer all your questions.

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WHO needs a harness?

Just about every dog can benefit from a harness, especially if he’s the type that pulls and strains on the leash. Some dogs simply prefer harnesses over collars. Either way, harnesses offer multiple advantages to most dogs and the people walking them – read on.

Photo courtesy of Smoochy Poochy

WHY should I use a harness for my dog?

THEY REDUCE PULLING Harnesses offer more control than collars, making them ideal for dogs that are difficult on walks. “The style design of most harnesses helps prevent the dog from pulling,” says Meera Brown of Smoochy Poochy, a company that offers leashes, collars and harnesses for dogs.

Harnesses make it easier to redirect forceful behavior, and can even accelerate leash training.

Photo courtesy of Ruffwear

THEY OFFER MORE SUPPORT AND SECURITY Harnesses distribute the weight evenly across a dog’s chest. This makes them ideal for senior canines, and dogs with joint or muscular issues.

Alternatively, if you travel or hike with your dog, harnesses can help you lift him into vehicles and over challenging terrain. Look for products with handles and built-in padding such as Hurtta’s Active Harness, designed with Neoprene padding in all close-contact areas and a back-clip handle that can be used to secure your dog safely in a vehicle. Ruffwear’s Web Master™ harness is another great option for those who frequent trails, while their Load Up™ Harness is designed specifically for automotive travel.

THEY PROTECT YOUR DOG’S WINDPIPE Harnesses designed for everyday use, such as Smoochy Poochy’s Step in Harness, are great for dogs prone to collapsing trachea, a syndrome that occurs when the windpipe loses its strength and caves in. Though small and senior dogs are more prone to collapsing trachea, harnesses

December 2017/January 2018

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WHAT types of harness are available?

• BACK-CLIP These harnesses feature a clip between the dog’s shoulder blades.

Back-clip harnesses are perfect for small breeds and dogs that don’t pull, as they offer less control than other styles. As a bonus, a dog wearing a back-clip harness is unlikely to get the leash tangled between his legs.

• FRONT-CLIP Front-clip harnesses offer more control. “Our Front Range™ Harness features a front leash attachment point, which offers

FINDING THE RIGHT HARNESS FOR YOUR DOG • Start by looking for a high quality well-designed harness made from durable materials. It’s better to pay more for a good product than to put your dog’s safety at risk by choosing something cheap that could break or wear out fast.

• Making sure you get the right size is also crucial. “When you’re at a store, try the harness on your dog to ensure a proper fit, then attach a leash to it and walk around the store,” says Meera. “This allows the sales associate to make sure it’s used in the correct way, and lets you test out the product.”

While some companies offer sizes based on breed or weight, most go by dimensions. Measure around your dog’s chest, just behind his front legs, and see the manufacturer’s size guidelines to find the right fit.

• Next, consider your lifestyle and the activities you enjoy with your dog. Do you like long hikes over challenging terrain, or do you just stroll around the block a few times a day? Companies like Hurtta, Ruffwear and The Dog Outdoors offer a “shop by activity” section on their websites to help you find the best harness for your lifestyle.

“There are essentially two ways people search for dog products,” says Scott Daughtry of The Dog Outdoors.

“Some browse based on the particular item they have in mind, while some have an activity they want to enjoy with their dog. We pick favorite items based on the activities they work well for, and present them together.” This makes it easier for consumers to choose from brands and styles that meet their needs.

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Animal Wellness

gentle correction and discourages dogs from pulling,” says Susan Strible of Ruffwear.

This type of harness is ideal for training your dog not to pull on his leash or jump up during walks.

• DUAL-PURPOSE Nowadays, you can find dog harnesses that double as backpacks, coats and even lifejackets!

HOW do I use a harness?

Putting a harness on your dog takes three simple steps: q Place the harness open on the ground and have your dog stand overtop it. Help him step his paws into the appropriate loops.

 Pull the harness up around his torso and secure it using the fasteners.

 Tighten the straps so the harness fits snugly – but not too snugly. If you can’t insert two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body, it’s too tight.

To encourage good behavior and help your dog associate the harness with a positive experience, use treats to reward and encourage him. If your dog resists the harness at first, don’t force it. Be patient, and wait a couple hours before trying again.

Once your dog has accepted having the harness put on, get him used to it by letting him wear it around the house and yard. Just be sure to supervise him, as unattended dogs can sometimes snag harnesses on furniture, bushes and other objects. It may take him a little time to get fully comfortable with his harness, but once he is, you can head out for a stroll together!

WHERE can I buy a harness?

Found my Animal, foundmyanimal.com Hurtta, hurtta.com Ruffwear, ruffwear.com Sleepypod, sleepypod.com Smoochy Poochy, smoochypoochy.com The Dog Outdoors, thedogoutdoors.com

Photo courtesy of Hurtta

prevent this syndrome in all ages and breeds. Even in dogs without this condition, harnesses prevent the choking and throat damage caused by pulling.

Business Profile

WiggleLess Less

By Matthew Berk

Thanks to one woman’s vision, these custom braces are the lives of dogs with IVDD and other back problems.

improving

W

hen Lisa Luckenbach’s two dachshunds, Henry and June, were diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in 2009, she couldn’t believe how few products were available to help them. Yet IVDD is one of the most common orthopedic problems seen in dogs. It’s also degenerative, which means it worsens over time, often restricting the dog’s range of motion.

Lisa had also suffered from back pain for a number of years, so she understood her dogs’ discomfort. She was determined to come up with something besides medication and rest to get Henry and June on the road to healing. “A back brace from my local pharmacy was helpful for me during my own flare-ups, and I thought, ‘I’ve got to find one for my dogs!’” she says. “I searched the marketplace, but found no back braces for dogs, so I designed my own and had a seamstress sew it up.” Designed to curtail twisting, relieve stress and provide comfortable but firm support, the brace allowed her dogs to move freely without experiencing pain.

Inspired by the positive results she saw in Henry and June, Lisa decided to create more braces to help other canines. She subsequently founded her own company, called WiggleLess, and within two years was shipping products around the globe.

“Our mission is to offer high quality back braces and related products to help support the overall health and well-being of dogs challenged with physical and emotional issues,” explains Lisa. Today, the company offers Lisa’s original back brace, as

Lisa drew on her own experiences with back pain to design a brace that would help dogs with similar problems.

The Comfort Shirt can be worn beneath a brace.

well as a uniquely designed Comfort Shirt. Created from a lightweight, breathable material, these shirts can be worn underneath a brace, or on their own for daily comfort.

While WiggleLess products are especially ideal for breeds prone to back issues, such as dachshunds, beagles, Corgis and Basset hounds, canines of all shapes and sizes can benefit.

Active dogs, for example, gain an advantage from the added support. Conversely, the braces act as a preventative measure for overweight and senior dogs, helping to stave off future back problems.

Lisa and her team haven’t stopped at back braces. They know that preventing health issues is a multi-step process. So as part of their commitment to improving the lives of dogs and helping them heal, WiggleLess has partnered with other companies to offer a variety of supplements, treats and other products that support a well-rounded, healthy canine lifestyle.

Since Lisa first started creating canine back braces eight years ago, Henry and June have worn them for a part of every day, especially during bouts of high activity. Thanks to WiggleLess and the dedication of their loving “mom”, they haven’t had back problems. “I have had dogs my entire life and fully appreciate the gifts they offer us with their unconditional love and devotion,” says Lisa. “When I learn that a WiggleLess brace has benefitted even one dog, I am rewarded.”

December 2017/January 2018

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Images courtesy of @pompomchewy

Image courtesy of @offleashstudio

POM POM

By Emily Watson

Chewy

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Animal Wellness

This kindly Pomeranian is recognized worldwide for his striking “foxlike” features, his special connection with children – and his love for the camera!

Not all puppy mill dogs have happy endings. But Pom Pom Chewy is one of the lucky ones. Rescued from his cage by an animal shelter in northern Canada, before he turned a year old, he was small, sickly and skittish at first. But Chewy soon began to heal under the care of his loving foster family, whose home backed onto a large forest.

Soon, under the watchful eyes of his caregivers, the little Pomeranian took to playing among the trees where foxes were often spotted.

Coincidentally, as Chewy grew stronger, he started to look more and more like a fox himself. But though he loved the woods and his lookalike friends, he was destined for a different lifestyle. He was adopted by a woman named Nicole, who took Chewy south to live with her in Toronto. Nicole decided to embrace his “foxy” roots, and spun a fun and catchy story that garnered the attention of nearly 65,000 fans on Instagram.

As her endearing story goes, a fox and a Pomeranian fell in love and brought Chewy – the first “Foxeranian” – into the world.

At first, the drastic change of scenery from a peaceful northern forest to a busy urban setting caused Chewy some anxiety. He hid in the corners of Nicole’s condo, and refused to emerge. But eventually, something – or more accurately, someone – coaxed him out of his shell. “One day, Chewy had a vet appointment that ran late,” says Nicole, who is a kindergarten teacher. “I had to bring him to work with me. He had taken to sleeping in my shirt because he was scared of most things, but he stuck his head out when we entered the classroom. One of my students noticed and came over.

Chewy tried to climb out of my shirt to get to her. I let her hold him and he snuggled into her.” Nicole was shocked. “This was a dog who had trouble coming out from under furniture, let alone interacting with people!”

Continued on page 48.

“The way Chewy responds to kids and the way they respond to him is such a

special

thing to see.”

Aaron and Pom Pom Chewy

December 2017/January 2018

47

Images courtesy of @pompomchewy

Continued from page 47.

After seeing how well Chewy connected with children, Nicole started bringing him to her classroom on a weekly basis.

“Typically, I introduce Chewy to the class, we discuss the proper way to interact with pups, and then we do a lesson on animals,” she says. “The rest of the time is spent interacting with Chewy.”

As he became more and more comfortable in social situations, Nicole and Chewy started volunteering with other children’s programs throughout Toronto.

Nicole quickly began to recognize that there was something special about her sweet pup. His gift for interacting with children amazed her at every turn. “The way Chewy responds to kids and the way they respond to him is such a special thing to see,” she says. “Volunteering together has become our favorite time of the week.” Gradually, Nicole started bringing Chewy to bigger events, and they now appear at Toronto exhibitions like the Toronto Pet Expo and Woofstock, and work with many organizations such as Wagaware, Red, Greendog Foundation, and several local dog shelters.

Along with becoming one of the busiest canine philanthropists in Toronto, Chewy has also become famous on social media. As is the case with most Instagram dogs, Nicole claims it all started when she became obsessed with taking photos of her Pom. “When I sent photos to friends, I would put different-sized items beside him to show them how small he was,” she says. “All the photos went on my personal Instagram and I realized it was slowly becoming his own account.” As more people noticed Chewy’s tiny size and read the fictional tale of his foxy origins, his popularity grew. Before long, he was making media appearances and filming commercials and movies in New York City.

Needless to say, Chewy is much more than just an adorable face.

As much as he enjoys dressing up in charming outfits and posing for cameras, this busy fellow still loves working with kids above all else. “One of my favorite stories about Chewy happened at our first

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Animal Wellness

Pet Expo,” says Nicole. “A little boy had just got a pair of glasses and was very insecure about them. Chewy loves wearing glasses and happened to be wearing a pair that day. I’ll never forget the moment that little boy saw Chewy with his glasses – suddenly, it was like glasses were the best thing in the world!”

Of course, Nicole always makes time in Chewy’s hectic schedule to let him just be a dog. When he’s not playing with children or working on Hollywood film sets, this cute canine enjoys swimming, strolling through urban parks, and wrestling with his brother – an even tinier Pomeranian named Solo. Chewy’s adventures are fueled by a healthy raw diet, as well as a daily probiotic supplement, a multivitamin, and as much pumpkin as he can get his paws on! According to Nicole, he’s also a sucker for natural elk bones.

While Nicole loves her pup’s strong connection with children, she admits that what she most enjoys is simply spending time with him between events. “Seeing the effect he has on children is truly wonderful,” she says. “But I also love it when he lets loose and acts like a pup. He is very professional when he’s working, so when he gets a chance to relax and be silly, it’s very well-deserved and so much fun to see!”

FIND POM POM CHEWY ONLINE pompomchewy.com instagram.com/ pompomchewy facebook.com/ pompomchewy twitter.com/ pompomchewy

product picks Strengthen his

immunity

Natural

antiseptic powder

Adaptogens are especially effective for supporting the immune system. From the makers of Recovery SA, PURICA Immune Pet is a formulation of powerhouse adaptogens for dogs and cats. A synergistic blend of the herb Ashwagandha and eight medicinal mushrooms, it optimizes your companion’s health by strengthening his natural immune response to illness and disease.

Skin irritations such as hot spots, dermatitis and insect bites can have a profoundly negative impact on your animal’s quality of life. Sturtevant’s Veterinary Remedies Canine Antiseptic Powder is made from all natural organically-sourced ingredient.. It provides broad spectrum medicine for use in treating skin irritations, stops itching and promotes healing, and also helps deter ticks, fleas, mites and mosquitoes.

100g – $43.98

$22

purica.com

sturtevantsvetremedies.com/wp/products/canine

Soothe

skin with essential oils

High quality essential oils have amazing healing qualities and can offer a range of benefits to animals. Animal Scents® Ointment is a protective, soothing salve designed specifically for external use on animals. It’s made from eight of nature's most powerful essential oils, including Rose and Myrrh, and promotes normal healthy skin in a moisturizing base of beeswax and lanolin.

Wholesale member – $21.75 Retail – $28.65

ylvetsandpets.com

Cats

on cloud nine!

A tie for dog

lovers

Cat trees are one of the best ways to keep kitties happy and occupied. They provide fun, exercise, and comfy spots to nap. Cloud 9 Cat Trees feature prestigious modular cat furniture handcrafted in Canada and built to the highest standards.

The trees are made from wood for optimum durability and come in a wide range of innovative décor-friendly designs. Custom built models are also available.

$30

cloud9cattrees.com

grey2kusa.org/ties

Looking for a unique holiday gift for the dog-loving gentlemen on your list? This sharp tie is made from cruelty-free fabric in a stylish blue with green stripes and white greyhound motifs. Best of all, every sale of this striking accessory benefits GREY2K USA's campaign to end the cruel sport of dog racing and promote the adoption of ex-racing greyhounds worldwide.

December 2017/January 2018

49

seeds

Is it okay for my dog to eat

By Marybeth Bittel

Many of the culinary seeds we incorporate into our own diets – including flax, chia, pumpkin and sunflower – are also

healthy choices

for our dogs.

ost of us are familiar with the nutritious qualities of various seeds. We might add flax seed to our cereal, sprinkle sunflower seeds on our salads, or grab a handful of pumpkin seeds for a midday snack. But these seeds are also good for dogs. Here’s a look at four popular seeds and their canine health benefits.

1Flax seeds

The blue-flowering flax plant is found mainly in the northern United States and Canada. Its tiny seeds are medium-brown or golden-tan in color, and have a nutty flavor. They also carry a nutrient profile that may help support canine wellness. According to the Flax Council of Canada, for example, flax seeds are a good source of both protein and fiber.

Soluble and insoluble fiber can help coax waste and toxins out of the body, alleviating constipation or bowel irritation.

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Animal Wellness

Flax seeds are also high in a special group of plant-based compounds called lignans. According to healthyflax.org, these compounds can fight inflammation, which in turn may help support immunity. Additionally, the seeds contain alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), a powerful variety of Omega-3 that can also help curb inflammation.

Flax seeds apparently help enhance the condition of skin and fur, too. A 2001 Texas A&M University study found that when 18 canines were fed flax seeds or sunflower seeds for a month, their skin and coat condition noticeably improved during the consumption interval.

Most dogs aren’t especially efficient at converting flax seed-derived ALA into its more bio-accessible derivatives, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), but the ground seeds and cold-pressed flax seed oil still make a healthy, convenient

mealtime mix-in. In the book New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats, holistic veterinarian Dr. Joanne Stefanatos generally recommends giving dogs under 50 pounds up to ¼ teaspoon of seeds per day; dogs over 50 pounds can be given up to a tablespoon per day. As with any new addition to the diet, start with small quantities, monitor stool consistency, and adjust accordingly.

2Chia seeds

Modern science has recently rediscovered what the Mayans and Aztecs understood back in 2600 BC – chia seeds pack a powerful dose of nutrition. Native to Central America and Southern Mexico, chia (otherwise known as salvia hispanica) was a staple of the Mayan and Aztec cultures. It was used to sustain warriors, was prized for its ability to boost energy, and was even leveraged as currency in trade.

According to author and holistic physician Dr. Andrew Weil, chia seeds are a powerful source of Omega-3 fatty acids. They also provide a healthy dose of fiber, which can greatly help with constipation and weight loss. Additionally, these tiny gluten-free

December 2017/January 2018

51

peanuts

A NOTE ABOUT Neither a seed nor a nut, the peanut is actually a legume. Most dogs love the flavor of peanut butter, and it offers them a healthy punch of protein.

What many people may not realize is that peanuts can contain toxic substances called aflatoxins. These contaminants are produced by specific molds that grow in soil and certain grains. Consumed at high levels, these compounds may cause health issues.

The good news is that this problem is rare. “Peanuts and peanut butter are rigorously tested for aflatoxins,” says Susan Lauten, PhD, owner and founder of Pet Nutrition Consulting. However, storing peanut butter for exceptionally long intervals can sometimes lead to aflatoxin overgrowth, so make sure to only feed your dog fresh peanut butter. If you’re giving him peanut butter treats, choose a high quality product. seeds are considered an excellent source of protein, phosphorus, zinc, B vitamins and antioxidants.

Chia seeds store well for lengthy intervals, and carry very little taste or scent. Because the seeds are so absorbent, they actually form a smooth gel when water is added. This makes them great for masking pills or mixing into food. In fact, it’s generally safest to soak the seeds in water before feeding to prevent expansion in a dog’s stomach. Queny Villanueva, founder of the organic dog treat company SavvyBeast, recommends feeding a dog up to ¼ teaspoon daily for every ten pounds of body weight.

3Pumpkin seeds

Pureed pumpkin can offer natural digestive-balancing benefits for dogs. But the raw, organic seeds also make a healthy treat. According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, amino acids, phosphorous, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, niacin and zinc.

Interestingly, early American colonists and Native American tribes used pumpkin seeds to help discourage parasites. The seeds do contain very weak levels of an amino acid called cucurbitin, which can help inhibit worm activity.

Unsalted pumpkin seeds make a healthy training treat that many dogs seem to enjoy. They can also be sprinkled on food, or fed on their own. According to Dr. Deborah Mitchell, medical director and practice manager of Knollwood Hospital for Pets, however, a little goes a long way. She recommends feeding dogs ¼ teaspoon per ten pounds of body weight once a day, in threeto five-day intervals. She adds that you should never exceed two teaspoons per day in your dog, since overuse can sometimes prompt diarrhea and heart issues.

Pumpkin seeds can be made into a healthy butter by roasting the raw seeds for roughly seven to ten minutes in a 350°F toaster oven. Let the seeds cool for about 15 minutes, then pulse in a coffee grinder or food processor. Scrape the resulting paste into a bowl, and store it in the refrigerator. Your dog will enjoy a little taste now and then.

4Sunflower seeds

Sunflowers have been around for thousands of years. Raw organic seeds have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that many dogs like. As a bonus, they’re a good source of vitamin E, the body’s primary fat-soluble antioxidant. This compound plays a vital role in neutralizing free radicals, and preserving cardiovascular health.

Sunflower seeds are also a great source of selenium, which is important for proper thyroid function. In addition, they’re rich in magnesium and essential fatty acids, which can help dogs maintain a glossy coat and clear skin.

Feed unsalted, raw sunflower seeds individually, or mix them with food. Sunflower seed butter is also readily available in most health food stores. Bear in mind, however, that the high fat content of sunflower products can sometimes cause digestive upset in dogs. Dr. Mitchell therefore recommends feeding these products sparingly – a few seeds or nibbles here and there, as a special treat.

Depending on a dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs, seeds and seed-based butters may represent a worthwhile addition to his feeding schedule. They can add unique flavor and texture, plus give him a healthful nutritional boost!

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Animal Wellness

This column features articles from our library at AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

HYDROTHERAPY for dogs in rehab

By Janice Huntingford, DVM

Is your dog recovering from an injury or surgery? Does he have arthritis or hip dysplasia?

A HYDROTHERAPY program could help him with his mobility.

If your dog is having mobility problems, whether because of injury, surgery or a condition such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, he may need rehabilitation or physical therapy.

Hydrotherapy is one of the most effective ways to help dogs with mobility and related problems. Swimming or walking on an underwater treadmill can help these dogs get moving again.

A SHORT HISTORY OF HYDROTHERAPY Warm water therapy for humans dates back to antiquity. The first use of hydrotherapy for animals involved horses. When racehorses swam as part of their rehabilitation, they recovered from injuries more quickly and stayed fit for racing. The first equine hydrotreadmill was developed in the early 1970s.

In the mid-1980s, the hydro-treadmill became available to human patients. And in 1998, TOPS Veterinary Rehab near Chicago introduced the world to hydro-treadmill use for canine December 2017/January 2018

53

HYDROTHERAPY CASE REPORTS

1Griff, a nine-year-old Labrador retriever, was overweight and had had surgery on both

knees. Despite the operations, his knees continued to be a problem and the surgeon recommended additional surgery on one of his legs. He was given a grave prognosis for complete recovery. He was weak, depressed and had great difficulty walking.

1

At first, Griff was able to swim only one lap of the therapy pool without stopping to rest. After about a month of swimming three times a week, his physical and mental condition showed a marked improvement. He lost weight and was getting around better. After four months of swimming, he was re-evaluated by the surgeon, who said he was so much better that no more surgery was necessary. Griff continued to swim every week and enjoyed it immensely.

2 Prince is a five-year-old Siberian husky. He was referred to our practice

2

after having intervertebral disc surgery. At the time, he was unable to bear weight on any of his legs. He had been down for over a month and his muscles were extremely weak.

Prince was an excellent candidate for underwater treadmill therapy. The support provided by the water allowed him to start bearing weight on his weak legs. Over time, the therapy strengthened his legs and he relearned to walk. Soon, Prince was running!

rehabilitation. Since then, hydrotherapy, whether in a pool or underwater treadmill, has proved to be a valuable tool for dogs in need of physical rehabilitation following injury or surgery.

WHAT HYDROTHERAPY OFFERS YOUR DOG Aquatic therapy relies on the properties of water to help with the canine rehabilitation process. It does this in several ways.

Water provides buoyancy that aids in rehabilitating weak 1 muscles and painful joints. This buoyancy allows the patient to stand and exercise while minimizing the weight on sore joints. If a dog is immersed to the middle of his chest, his joints are bearing only 38% of the weight they would bear on dry land. With less of a load on his joints, the dog is able to exercise more comfortably. an animal is immersed in water, it exerts constant 2 When hydrostatic pressure on his body. This is particularly useful for swollen joints or limbs and other tissues that are retaining fluid. Not only does the water pressure reduce swelling, it also stimulates nerve receptors in the skin. This stimulation decreases the animal’s pain perception and allows him to exercise with considerably less discomfort.

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Animal Wellness

viscosity of water provides resistance to movement.

3 The It’s harder for the animal to move through water than through air. This resistance is used to strengthen muscles and improve fitness. Along with water’s buoyancy, its viscosity provides support for unstable joints. For example, a paralyzed dog is more willing to walk in water than on land because the water holds him up and prevents him from falling. This greatly reduces his anxiety toward exercise. If the dog is weak, he is able to move more comfortably in water than on land. The resistance of the water allows him to get a more intense workout in a shorter period of time. in water has many additional benefits. It 4 Exercising improves strength and muscular endurance, cardiovascular fitness, range of motion and well being. Most dogs find water exercise, particularly swimming, to be fun. Those recovering from anterior cruciate surgery, fractures, neurological conditions, tendon or ligament injuries benefit greatly from aquatic therapy as part of their rehabilitation.

Overweight, arthritic and senior dogs, or dogs with hip dysplasia or spondylosis (a disease of the spine) are also candidates for aquatic therapy. Even dogs that do not suffer from any of these diseases can benefit from the increased level of fitness aquatic therapy provides.

When a dog is immersed to his chest, his limbs bear less than 40% of his weight, making exercise more comfortable.

NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS Hydrotherapy does not mean throwing your dog in a pool or onto a hydro-treadmill, and watching him try to swim around. Some precautions have to be taken before instituting a hydrotherapy program. Dogs with open wounds or sores, or those with breathing difficulties or heart disease, are not candidates for aquatic therapy. If the dog panics in water, aquatic therapy may not be right for him; he may injure himself by thrashing around.

Lifejackets, swim buddies and competent aquatic therapists may help a panicky dog get used to swimming, or an underwater

treadmill might be a better choice. The therapist must determine the dog’s fitness level, as swimming in particular can be very strenuous. After surgery, it’s common for a dog to be able to swim or walk on an underwater treadmill for only a short time, due to fatigue.

Hydrotherapy offers a lot to dogs in all life stages and with a variety of conditions. Even healthy canines can benefit from improved cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. The best thing about it, from the dog’s perspective, is that it’s fun!

December 2017/January 2018

55

passages

Dottie

– a tiny terrier who lived life with all her might

By Tami Hendrix

or as long as I can remember, I’ve been around souls in transition – souls that are growing beyond what they have known before.

The catalysts that bump us forward are usually challenges that appear as relationship issues, health crises, career upheavals, financial woes, and death.

Our lives can be humming along nicely, the forward momentum smooth and even – then something happens and jolts us forward into a rougher, faster ride.

Animals seem to handle transition differently than we do. They have a much more grounded and graceful attitude towards changes. Dottie, my little rat terrier, was no exception.

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Animal Wellness

Dottie had been dumped at a shelter because her owner was tired of her. “She’s too old and sickly,” he said. The bewildered little dog was placed in the corner of a cold noisy room filled with cages of animals. She shivered uncontrollably and tried to make herself invisible.

Above the door was a sign that read “Euthanasia Room”.

A volunteer was heading home for the day when she felt an urge to enter the room, even though she usually purposely avoided it. She immediately noticed the small older dog in the corner. They must have run out of cages, she thought to herself.

She picked Dottie up, and the dog froze in terror. The volunteer

As her confidence grew, she became known as “Dottie the Princess” — and we were happy to cater to her every whim!

was overcome with emotion. She felt as if she was holding an innocent helpless baby in her arms, and her heart cracked wide open. The volunteer didn’t know what she was going to do; she just knew she couldn’t leave the little dog to die.

Through a series of wonderful “coincidences”, Dottie came into my life when she was 13 years old – too old to be considered worth saving in many shelters. When she arrived in my home, she brought all her past life issues with her. Her nerves were shot, and she jumped at the slightest sound. Her body shook violently. If a man came anywhere near her, she instantly peed on the floor. She barked at the other dogs, warning them to stay away from her. She trusted no one and had no friends, except for me. She kept to herself for months.

Over time, however, as Dottie grew calmer and felt safer, her true personality started to emerge. I watched in wonder as she faced all her inner demons, one by one. Whenever a fear or old behavior pattern would arise, she would try her best to face it by not automatically reacting to it. Fiercely independent, she had the attitude of a two-year-old who says: “I can do this myself!”

As her confidence grew, she became known as “Dottie the Princess” – and we were happy to cater to her every whim! Even the other dogs, who were three times her size, would stop by her favorite spot to say hello. Dottie soon had us all wrapped around her paws!

In the years that followed, I often marveled at the spirit of this tiny dog who’d had every reason to give up. Once she’d

settled in with us, she made every effort to live life to the fullest. She taught me time and again that circumstances and age don’t define us; only we do that. She pulled herself up from the depths of despair so that she could enjoy her new life with us.

In short, Dottie seemed to have made a conscious decision to bend with changes rather than fight them, allowing her to enjoy each moment with a grace I envy to this day. As she continued to grow older, she kept her puppy-like joy and happy-no-matterwhat attitude, even though she slowly lost mobility in her legs.

When she could no longer walk, she would somehow maneuver her body into position to eat and drink.

As her body became more debilitated, Dottie’s personality remarkably became even softer. She took on the warmth of a favorite grandmother. Her eyes remained bright and luminous, almost as if she knew a secret the rest of us didn’t. And when she could only sit and watch the world go by, the other animals would gather around her. I’m sure she was teaching them how to live a fulfilled life. I know she was teaching me.

In May of 2017, when she was 20 years old, Dottie left her body with grace and dignity. She looked at me with her large eyes, and then she was gone. She left behind a legacy of independence, fierce determination, a strong will to live, warmth, humor and a message for us all – live life with all your might. No matter what storms you encounter, bless it all.

Life is a gift.

December 2017/January 2018

57

Should we be

de-sexing our dogs?

By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM

In North America, spaying and neutering are generally regarded as a necessary and responsible approach to controlling populations of stray and homeless dogs. But new research indicates that these procedures can negatively impact a dog’s health. So what’s the solution?

In the US and Canada, dogs are routinely spayed and neutered when they’re between four and nine months old. Many puppies coming out of shelters are spayed as early as eight weeks of age. In order to be considered a responsible owner of a female dog, you’re expected to spay her before her first estrus cycle. However, recent studies have found that spaying and neutering dogs, especially too early in life, can have a detrimental effect on their health.

What many of us in North America don’t realize is that intact dogs are the norm in Europe. Responsible dog owners are those who effectively manage their intact dogs to prevent them from reproducing. When female dogs go into heat, people simply manage the situation by removing them from group events until the heat cycle is complete. The dogs are kept at home or sequestered from males, and are walked on a leash. Alternatively, their guardians implement ways to prevent unwanted pregnancies (more on this later).

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Animal Wellness

WHY IS SPAYING AND NEUTERING AN ISSUE? The problem with de-sexing dogs is that we’re not just sterilizing them; we’re also removing extremely important sex hormone-secreting tissues, namely the ovaries and testes. As a result, we’ve created health problems that are non-existent or significantly less prevalent in intact pets.

Over the last several years, a number of small, breed-focused and primarily retrospective studies have been conducted on the effects of spay/neuter in large and giant breeds, providing us with a growing body of evidence that indicates de-sexing, especially early in life, significantly increases the risk of serious health problems.

In large and giant breed females, for example, spaying increases the risk of obesity, cranial cruciate ligament disease, hip dysplasia, urinary incontinence, cystitis, and several types of cancer (see sidebar at right), including lymphoma, mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma.

MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN DE-SEXED DOGS Removing a dog’s ability to produce important hormones while his/her skeleton is still developing can result in delayed closure of the growth plates at the end of each long bone. This can cause a dog’s legs to grow longer than normal.

CANCERS LINKED TO DE-SEXING • Research shows that intact large and giant breed dogs have a lower risk of developing lymphoma than de-sexed dogs. Another risk factor for lymphoma is de-sexing before the age of one.

Spaying/neutering is also associated with a two to four times higher risk for mast cell tumors.

• In another study, Rottweilers who were de-sexed before they were a year old had a one-in-four lifetime risk for bone cancer; and in general, they were significantly more likely to develop the disease than intact Rotties.

• A further study concluded that from 1980 through 1994, the risk for bone cancer in large breed purebred dogs increased twofold in dogs that were de-sexed. Spayed or neutered dogs are also three times more likely to develop transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder than intact dogs.

• A number of studies have also linked behavior problems to early de-sexing.

• One study indicates that Labrador and golden retrievers desexed before six months of age develop one or more joint disorders at two to five times the rate of intact dogs.

Continued on page 60.

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Continued from page 59.

• When it comes to problems with cranial cruciate ligaments, large breed dogs spayed under six months of age have three times the risk for early life CCL injuries, while dogs de-sexed at any age have a two to three times higher incidence of CCL disease compared with intact dogs.

• In a study of several hundred golden retrievers, none of the intact dogs had CCL disease; however, 7.7% of spayed females who were de-sexed before they were a year old developed CCL injuries.

• Another study of 40 years of data collected on a range of different dogs de-sexed at a variety of ages showed a 17% increased risk of hip dysplasia.

HOW I APPROACH THE STERILIZATION ISSUE Over the years, I've changed my views on de-sexing, based not only on a mounting body of research, but also on the health challenges faced by so many of my canine patients after I sterilized them. My current approach is to work with each individual pet owner to make decisions that will provide the most health benefits for the dog.

q Whenever possible, I prefer to leave dogs intact. However, this approach requires a highly responsible pet guardian who is fully committed to and capable of preventing the dog from mating (unless the owner is a responsible breeder and that's the goal).

Responsible CARE OF

AN INTACT FEMALE DOG Intact female dogs have one or two heats a year. You can typically tell a heat cycle is on its way when the dog’s vulva begins to enlarge.

As with humans, there's bleeding involved; but unlike human females, who are not fertile during menstruation, dogs are just the opposite. Female dogs can get pregnant only during heats, and for about three to four days as unfertilized eggs ripen in their bodies.

Some dogs will signal during this time by flagging, which means lifting the tail base up and to the side. Some females will stand and can be mounted at any time during their heat cycle, including before and after they're pregnant or fertile. Others show no behavior signs whatsoever. Owners of intact female dogs must know the signs of heat in their own pets, so they can separate them from male dogs during this time. If you have a female dog in heat, you should never leave her alone outside, even for a second, and even in a fenced-in yard.

Another way to prevent unwanted pregnancies is to use a product such as the Delay Her Spay harness from PABS (delayherspay.com). This “chastity belt” for dogs deters accidental breeding. Made from soft and durable webbing with a mesh backing, it’s designed to keep the dog’s hind end covered at all times, while allowing her to urinate through the mesh, and defecate over the top.

The heat cycle lasts about three weeks, but the menstrual bleeding can be unpredictable during this time. It isn’t consistently heavy nor does it occur every day all day. Many people with intact female dogs invest in special diapers or panties that can hold a sanitary napkin to contain the discharge.

Pads can also be added to the Delay Her Spay harness to protect your floors and furniture from discharge. Typically, though, female dogs are incredibly good at keeping themselves very clean. Most of the time, there's very little mess.

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Advertorial Photo credit Roxanna Froese: In the River Valley

Petcurean’s New

NOW FRESH

Recipes Lead the Pack in Freshness & Sustainability

It’s important to note that I'm not advocating the adoption of intact shelter animals to people who may or may not be responsible pet owners. Shelter veterinarians don't have the time or resources to build a relationship with every adoptive family, so the animals in their care must be sterilized prior to adoption to prevent more litters of unwanted pups.

 My second choice is to sterilize without de-sexing. This means performing a procedure that will prevent pregnancy while sparing the testes or ovaries so they can continue to produce the hormones essential for the dog's health and well-being.

For females, this involves either a tubal ligation or a modified spay (basically a hysterectomy). The modified spay removes the uterus while preserving the hormoneproducing ovaries. It also eliminates the possibility of pyometra because the uterus is removed.

Unfortunately, veterinary schools in the US only teach full spays and neuters, so unless your vet has obtained additional training in sterilization techniques that spare the ovaries or testicles (which is unlikely), you’ll have only one option available. The Parsemus Foundation maintains a list of vets that perform ovary-sparing spays and also has instructional videos for vets who want to learn the technique.

In this case, my suggestion would be to wait until your dog has reached full musculoskeletal maturity; and if you have a female, I’d wait until she has completed her first estrus cycle before scheduling the surgery.

Keeping your dog intact, or at least delaying the spay/neuter procedure, can help prevent a host of health problems down the road. Having an intact dog comes with some extra responsibilities, of course, but they’re not onerous and are well worth the effort.

Petcurean Ups Ante with 100% Fresh, Non-GMO Stews and Pâtés We want our pets to live healthy and happy lives. And pet nutrition is a big part of this.

Petcurean wants to make your job easy when it comes to making healthy choices for your pet. That’s why the Canadian pet food company is dedicated to creating premium products that are not only delicious, but also nutritionally-balanced to help pets thrive. So it makes perfect sense that Petcurean has expanded its NOW FRESH line with new stews and pâtés.

Made with 100% fresh wild salmon, turkey or pork, NOW FRESH uses fresh potatoes, carrots, peas, cranberries, sweet potatoes, and apples – all of which are human-grade and excellent sources of antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals to support digestive health.

The stews and pâtés use turkey bone broth as a base, which adds a great source of collagen and a meaty flavor that both dogs and cats love.

“Our team is passionate about being industry leaders in discovering what’s best for our pets and creating recipes that they love,” says Walter Cosman, general manager at Petcurean. “As a palatability enhancer, bone broth is a great option for pets that are picky eaters or fussy.”

The new NOW FRESH recipes are also packed with other great ingredients, such as Omega 3 and 6 oils from coconut and canola to promote skin and coat health, and flaxseed as an excellent source of dietary fiber.

Cosman adds, “And you won’t find any rendered meat, byproducts, added growth hormones or artificial preservatives in NOW FRESH. We put pets first and our new recipes are another example of this.”

www.petcurean.com

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the scoop SOCKS...FOR DOGS?

Woodrow Wear’s Power Paws™ are what you’ve been looking for! Indoors, use them for traction, mobility, warmth, fashion and hardwood floor protection. Outdoors, they protect paws from allergies, snow/ice/salt, and extreme heat. With 13 sizes, two foot shapes, and three durability levels, there is a product for virtually every dog. WoodrowWear.com

ARM & HAMMER™ SLIDE™ NON-STICK CLUMPING LITTER Hate changing your cat's litter? Then change your cat's litter – to ARM & HAMMER™ SLIDE™.

SLIDE™ is the revolutionary non-stick clumping litter that doesn't stick to the litter box. It just slides right out, without scraping or scrubbing, and provides a 7-day odor-free home...guaranteed.

So, slide on over to SLIDE™ and eliminate stuck-on mess.

ArmandHammerSlide.com

HELPING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS – AND THEIR ANIMALS

RedRover, a non-profit animal welfare organization, was awarded a $433,000 grant from an anonymous foundation in support of their Domestic Violence Assistance Program. This allows them to offer more financial assistance for safe pet boarding and veterinary care through the Safe Escape program, and increase Safe Housing grant amounts from $6,000 up to $20,000.

RedRover.org/SafeHousing

OPTIMAL HEALTH IN EVERY SIP!

Immunity & Longevity Vitamin Antioxidant Supplements for dogs and cats help build up their immune systems to help with joint maintenance, healing, energy, growth, coat and digestion. No pills, no stress – just stir the flavored supplements into your pet’s water bowl. Now on sale!

DogHealthWaters.com, CatHealthWaters.com

SAFE CYCLING WITH YOUR DOG

With a Springer dog exerciser, you can safely ride your bike – and take your best buddy with you. The low-mounted, heavy-duty steel spring absorbs up to 90% of the force of a dog's tugs, allowing you to keep your balance while protecting your dog from traffic, pedals and wheels.

SpringerAmerica.com

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NEW PET SITTING CERTIFICATION

Pet Sitters International announces new certification that outlines the knowledge necessary for professional pet sitters, and offers the first-ever knowledge-assessed examination specifically for the pet-sitting industry. “It’s important…that professional pet sitters have a way to…distinguish themselves as qualified, competent professionals,” says President Patti J. Moran.

Petsit.com/certification

NIXING TICKS

Ticks are a year-round problem in many regions. Independent third party testing has indicated that BugPellent Fly & Tick Gel outperformed two leading natural insect repellent competitors. It killed or repelled 83% of ticks, while the competitor gels only repelled and killed 66% and 54%.

BugPellent.com/test

BOOSTING IMMUNITY

A proprietary medicinal mushroom extract, I’M-YUNITY® helps reduce pain and fatigue, improve energy levels, mobility and appetite. Recommended by vets as nutritional and immune support, complementary treatment with chemo post-surgery, or when surgery or chemo is not an option (-5% with code: Wellness).

ImYunityForDogs.com

CHEWS FOR DAILY HEALTH

Zuke’s® Enhance Functional Chews are designed to support a dog’s daily health. Made from some of the best herbs and high quality ingredients nature has to offer, they help support and maintain your dog’s proper body function so he can continue to live a healthy and active life.

Zukes.com/supplements

JIMINY CRICKET!

Jiminy’s has introduced an innovative new line of dog treats. Original Cricket Cookies are made with cricket protein, which combines great nutrition and a nutty flavor dogs love. Crickets also use exponentially less land, water and feed than traditional protein, and emit far fewer greenhouse gases such as methane.

Jiminys.com

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massage How to

your dog

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Animal Wellness

By Penny Kittlitz

doesn’t love a great massage? After all, massage benefits us physically and psychologically. The same is true for our dogs. Through massage, you’ll see anxious or nervous energy melt away, and tightly held muscles relax. Whether you set aside time every week to massage your dog yourself, or look for a certified canine massage therapist, it’s helpful to know which techniques work best.

As with any therapy, you should consult your veterinarian and/or a professional canine massage therapist to ensure your dog is a good candidate for massage. Most dogs thrive on it, but there are a few cases when massage is contraindicated (see sidebar on next page).

START AT A YOUNG AGE While massage is therapeutic at any age, the sooner you can start massaging your puppy or dog the better. Exposing her body to touch and manipulation in a positive environment helps prepare her for veterinary visits, grooming appointments, and human touch. Plus, it’s a great bonding experience.

What you’ll need: • A willing canine volunteer • A quiet space free from distraction • A comfortable place for your dog to lie or sit • Towel – to catch loosened dog hair • Treats – just in case a little bribery is needed

Benefits of canine massage

•

Eases physical tension

•

Relieves pain

•

Relaxes

•

Increases range of motion

•

Improves mobility

•

Helps/prevents postural deformities, especially in young dogs

•

Lubricates and nourishes joints

•

Increases circulation and blood flow, cleanses toxins

•

Improves lung condition

•

Helps keep skin soft and supple, and improves hair’s shine and texture

•

Stimulates or soothes sensory nerve endings, which helps with phantom limb syndrome following amputation

•

Helps with compensation and counterbalance issues

What you DON’T need: • Long fingernails – make sure your nails are short enough that you don’t inadvertently scratch your dog.

• Lotions or oils – they’re not necessary, though an aromatherapy infuser is always pleasant Continued on page 66.

December 2017/January 2018

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Continued from page 65.

BASIC MASSAGE STROKES When performing canine massage, start at the neck, move to the shoulder on the side the dog presents to you first, then progress down the leg, the back, over the abdomen and down the rear haunches and inner groin. Repeat on the other side. Complete all strokes in one area before moving to the next. When working with a puppy or a small dog, you can massage each side simultaneously – sit the dog on your lap and adapt the strokes by using just fingertips on her small frame.

Pay close attention to the feedback your dog gives you, from sitting at attention (negative), to flat out eyes closed, loving every minute (positive). Your dog may be sensitive to an area that has had surgery or a prior injury, so respect her boundaries.

When she’s had enough, don’t force it. If your dog seems opposed to massage, start slowly with just petting and work your way up to longer sessions.

Here are a few basic strokes suitable for homecare mini-massages.

Why use a canine

1Effleurage Using a flat hand with fingers together, gently stroke one hand after the other continuously to help the dog relax and prepare the muscles for massage. You will be able to feel the area heat up as blood flow increases. This has a calming and soothing effect.

2 Raking Using splayed fingers with flat finger tips (ensure your nails are short enough that they can’t scratch), “rake” along the area with slight pressure in the same direction as the coat. This is very relaxing over areas of tension since the pressure is diffused.

3 Petrissage Using the ball of the thumb, apply slight pressure as you go “thumb over thumb” to smooth and stretch the muscle fibers to release tension and remove toxins from the cells.

A short massage session every day will help relax both you and your dog, and enhance your loving bond.

massage

therapist?

Massage manipulates the muscles, sinews and joints to increase circulation and improve elasticity and range of motion.

Through massage and feedback from the dog, a therapist can detect pain, tension, mobility restriction, sensitivities and areas of concern while using her hands to provide relief and relaxation.

Massage is not reserved only for dogs in need of rehabilitation or increased mobility.

Everyday living can be hard on a dog’s body – running, jumping, playing, sprinting to sudden stops, even the act of growing can cause discomfort.

Massage is a great way to ease some of the demands placed on her busy body. A canine massage therapist will work with you and your dog, and in some cases your veterinarian, to form a treatment plan best suited to the individual needs of the canine.

Dogs that suffer from cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, fever, circulatory problems, compromised kidneys, certain dermatological conditions, heart conditions and certain other issues are affected by increasing circulation and pressure, and should be evaluated by a professional massage therapist before undergoing any kind of massage. It is important to remember that massage is not a replacement for veterinary care but a complementary therapy to aid in canine wellness.

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Business Profile

Nzymes This family-owned company offers dog and cat supplements that boost the body’s natural healing power, and educates people about the importance of good nutrition.

By Matthew Berk

Stan (right) and Mike Stansbury at their SuperZoo booth in 2016.

Stan Stansbury receives phone calls every day from people seeking solutions for their pets’ health problems. From skin issues to stress to everything in between, Stan and the rest of the team at Nzymes have heard it all. “Ninety-nine percent of the time we start by helping people learn the difference between quality versus poor pet foods,” says Stan. But even dogs and cats who eat top-of-the-line diets can benefit from a little extra nutritional help. Nzymes’ natural supplements offer this support by improving nutrient uptake, and delivering live food enzymes to canine and feline bodies.

Nzymes was founded in 1999 by Stan, Thomas and Sasha Stansbury. Mike Stansbury joined the team in 2001. Drawing on their collective experience in the human health food industry, the family recognized a need for dietary antioxidant support for animals and decided to formulate a treat to fill this void. Since then, they’ve expanded their line to include a variety of oral and topical supplements that help with many common health problems in dogs and cats.

For example, the natural dietary antioxidants in the company’s Antioxidant Treats and Sprouted Granules may work to prevent vaccinosis as well as speed recovery after a spay or neuter surgery. Used for daily maintenance, these products support good health and immune system function by cleansing the body of toxins, maintaining healthy cellular function, and preventing

cellular damage caused by free radicals. Nzymes also offer kits created with the aid of nutritional consultants and holistic veterinarians. “Nature gives the body the ability to recover faster when it has the nutritional resources it needs to do the job,” says Stan. “It only makes sense!”

Although Nzymes has grown and expanded over the last two decades, their overarching mission has remained the same – to offer supplements that replenish the vital nutrients missing in many pet foods. “Commercial pet foods have their enzymes destroyed through normal processing, heat, and the application of preservatives or other chemicals,” he says, adding that dogs and cats are much more susceptible to disease if they eat a diet low in enzymes over a long period of time. Nzymes works to get to the root of these issues and help alleviate the damage, sometimes before it has even occurred.

Despite the large number of phone calls they receive, the team at Nzymes continues to educate everyone who contacts them. For Mike, in fact, the most rewarding part of the job is addressing consumer concerns by offering natural solutions. “Many people are distraught over their pets’ health,” he says. “The art of what we do involves dissecting causative factors, then laying a course of common sense and practical steps to help reverse the problem.

At the end of the day, sleep is peaceful when you know you’ve made a difference in someone’s life.”

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Harvey, Irma and Maria made this past autumn one of the most destructive hurricane seasons on record. Disastrous winds and flooding resulted in mass evacuations, many injuries and fatalities, and billions of dollars in damage. This unprecedented series of storms has impacted the lives of millions of people – and their animal companions.

Photo courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society

Photo courtesy of American Humane

Saving the lives of animal hurricane victims

temporary sheltering of animals displaced by Hurricane Harvey,” says Beth Gammie, Director of Field Services. In one week, they cared for 123 dogs and 24 cats, organizing supplies and providing much-needed love and comfort to frightened animals.

While RedRover continued dedicating their time and resources Hurricane Harvey overwhelmed Houston, Galveston and to Harvey victims, other organizations were forced to divide other parts of Texas in late August, prompting a whirlwind of and conquer when Hurricane Irma hit Florida a week later. preparation among human and For example, while American animal welfare organizations Humane had a rescue team everywhere. The Humane Society working in southeast Texas, There is no “calm after the storm” for animal rescue organizations. As of this writing, many are still hard at work. of the United States (HSUS), they also deployed a second American Humane, Best Friends, team to Florida to transport • The HSUS has teamed up with Emancipet, a nonprofit veterinary clinic in Houston’s East End, offering RedRover and other animal animals with one of three rescue free services to owned animals affected by Hurricane organizations deployed teams to vehicles equipped to provide Harvey through the end of 2017. affected regions to conduct search care, shelter and food. “Third • RedRover is offering regular Responder Trainings in cities and rescue missions, provide and fourth teams were sent to across North America to grow their team of volunteers. veterinary care, transport animals take over the operations of two • American Humane continues its mission to help to safety, and supply families ‘mega-shelters’ in Louisiana, agencies and pet parents prepare for natural disasters with provisions to see their pets housing some 1,000 animals (see their tips on p. 13). through the disaster.

– many ‘refugees’ from the • Best Friends offers online resources for hurricane storm in Texas,” says Dr. Robin victims, including a page dedicated to helping families “RedRover responders were Ganzert, president and CEO. reunite with pets displaced by the storms. They’re asked by the SPCA of Texas The HSUS Animal Rescue also encouraging people to foster or adopt an animal to help in Dallas with the Team was also on the ground to relieve overburdened shelters.

THE WORK CONTINUES

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Photo courtesy of American Humane

Photo courtesy of The HSUS

Photo courtesy of Red Rover

ANIMAL RESCUE PROCEDURES ARE IMPROVING

in Florida. They transported dogs and cats from Tampa Bay, Broward County and Palm Beach in advance of the storm, and organized flights of animals from Clay, Alachua and Collier counties with their partners, Wings of Rescue and GreaterGood.org.

Despite the devastation caused by these hurricanes, most animal rescue organizations agree there has been a great deal of improvement in rescue procedures.

“There is a world of difference between what occurred during Hurricane Katrina and what happens now in terms of preparation, evacuation, rescue, and temporary sheltering,” says Beth. “The PETS Act has helped immensely – and has saved animals and human lives.” Established in 2006, the PETS Act mandates that state and local government agencies take household pets and service animals into consideration in their disaster planning process, in order to be eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency funding.

Then, in late September, Hurricane Maria decimated Puerto Rico. In the wake of this horrendous storm, organizations including the HSUS moved in as soon as they were able in order to start airlifting hundreds of the island’s stray animals to the US mainland, where they were cared for, and will be rehabilitated and adopted out.

Meanwhile, in partnership with Houston PetSet and Harris County Public Health Animal Animal rescue teams Shelter, Best Friends Animal “More communities are realizing the tremendous continued to labor for weeks Society opened the Pet Reunion bond between family members and their pets, along in hurricane-ravaged regions, Pavilion (PRP) at NRG Arena with the need to incorporate animals into their often in perilous conditions. in Houston. “We provided 24overall disaster preparedness and response plans,” Overcoming challenges ranging hour care to pets impacted by adds Wanda Merling, Deputy Director of Operations from limited supplies to the storm, and worked around for the HSUS Animal Rescue Team. outbreaks of canine distemper, the clock to get information about the center into communities,” says Greta Palmer, Senior they did what they could to keep animals safe and healthy Director of Marketing and Communication. The PRP served as until they could be returned to their guardians or taken to a temporary housing center for nearly 600 dogs and cats, and shelters. According to Beth, reuniting families with their pets invited people to come and reclaim their pets. At the same time, makes all the effort worthwhile. “In the midst of losing so a second Best Friends team spearheaded a major evacuation for much, I’ve seen owners in tears just to see their dogs wagging their tails.” dogs and cats in Florida shelters.

December 2017/January 2018

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COMMUNICATORS

INTEGRATIVE VETS Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 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 Dr. Lisa Burgess Millgrove Veterinary Services Millgrove, ON Canada Phone: (905) 690-4557 Email: service@burgessvet.com Website: www.millgrovevet.com Sharon R. Doolittle, DVM, Inc. Smithfield, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Email: vetinfo@holisticanimalvet.com Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com

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

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

Animal Wellness

• 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

Carrie Hutchinson, VMD Rockledge Veterinary Clinic Rockledge, PA USA Phone: (215) 379-1677 Email: info@rockledgevet.com Website: www.rockledgevet.com

Essex Animal Hospital Essex, ON CAN Phone: (519) 776-7325 Email: info@essexanimalhospital.ca Website: www.essexanimalhospital.ca Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com

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Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care

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

Lydia Hiby Mysticviz Burbank, CA USA Phone: (818)-244-0091 Website: www.lydiahiby.com Lynn McKenzie Animal Energy Sedona, AZ USA Phone: (512) 827-0505 x 8642 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Website: www.animalenergy.com

Dr. Caroline Goulard, DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP Paws on the Go Laguna Woods, CA USA Phone: (949) 707-1696 Email: cgoulard@pawsonthego.net Website: www.pawsonthego.net

Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca

communicators • integrative vets • natural products • pet psychic Reiki therapy • schools & wellness education • shelters & rescues

REIKI THERAPY Aileen D’Angelo, RMT, Cn. TPM Hoof, Paw & Claw Reiki Northboro, MA USA Phone: (508) 393-3684 Email: hoofpawclaw@verizon.net Website: www.reikiforcritters.com

PET PSYCHIC

Amy Pikalek Hikari Natural Healing Madison, WI USA Phone: (608) 886-8778 Email: hikarihealing@yahoo.com Website: www.hikarihealing.com

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION

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

PetMassage, Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Toll Free: (800) 779-1001 Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com

PUBLICATIONS

Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians gg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com

Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.co Well Animal Institute Brighton, CO USA Phone: (303) 514-0076 Email: info@wellanimalinstitute.com Website: www.wellanimalinstitute.com

NATURAL PRODUCT

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS Azmira Holistic Animal Care Tuscon, AZ USA Phone: (800) 497-5665 Email: info@azmira.com Website: www.azmira.com

NATURAL PRODUCT RETAILERS Dog Gone Dirt All Natural Dog & Horse Skin Care Products Crescent City, FL USA Phone: (386) 559-3454 Email: doggonedirt@yahoo.com Website: www.doggonedirt.com

Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide

1-866-764-1212

SHELTERS & RESCUES Alaskan Malamute Mt. Gilead, OH USA Phone: (419) 512-2423 Email: shaman@brightnet.net American Brittany Rescue Sugar Grove, IL USA Phone: (866) BRIT-911 Email: rhonda@americanbrittanyrescue.org Website: www.americanbrittanyrescue.org Animal Avengers Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: (323) 655-4220 Email: admin@animalavengers.com Website: www.animalavengers.com Animal Rescue of the Rockies Breckenridge, CO USA Phone: (970) 389-8324 Email: arrcolorado@gmail.com Website: www.animalrescueoftherockies.org

December 2017/January 2018

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How acupressure can help

abandoned dogs

By Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

A dog that has been abandoned often suffers from a host of physical, emotional and behavioral issues. Along with the proper veterinary care and lots of TLC, this simple acupressure session can help address his well-being on all levels.

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No one reading this article would be capable of abandoning a dog. But sadly, shelters, rescues, and individuals involved in animal rescue work are faced on a daily basis with helping dogs that someone has abandoned. Whether they’ve been dropped off on a busy highway, deserted in the woods, or left behind when their owners move away, these dogs are understandably scared, confused and totally disoriented. If they’ve been on their own for any length of time, their health will have deteriorated due to poor nutrition, along with a lack of shelter and basic physical and emotional care. They can also be severely injured by cars and other animals.

Anyone who has rescued or adopted a dog that was previously abandoned knows how hard it is to bring him back from the trauma he’s experienced. They know about all the training, loving care, and veterinary bills it takes to rehabilitate a scared, sick or injured dog who has no reason to trust humans again.

The process usually begins with nutritious food, provided at regular times to establish a level of expectation and routine. A place to rest and sleep gives the dog a sense of safety and security, which is so important when he is accustomed to being wary at all times. Being able to exercise in a protected environment, whether he’s walking on a lead or playing in a backyard, helps relieve the dog’s fear and feelings of vulnerability. Some abandoned dogs may need training to help them integrate into a family setting.

For those new to

ACUPRESSURE – two techniques During an acupressure session, you place both hands on the dog at the same time. One hand will be doing the point work while the other rests gently somewhere on his body. There are two basic techniques for stimulating acupoints – the Thumb Technique and the Two-Finger Technique.

1

To use the Thumb Technique, gently place the soft tip of your thumb on the acupoint. Count slowly to 20, then move to the next point. This technique works best on larger dogs, and on the trunk, neck and larger muscles masses of medium-sized dogs.

2

To use the Two-Finger Technique, place your middle finger on top of your index finger to form a little tent. Lightly put the soft tip of your index finger on the acupoint and count slowly to 20. This technique is good for small dogs, and for the lower extremities on medium to large dogs.

In short, an abandoned dog can have a host of issues that need to be addressed. Often, it takes time, money and a lot of love to rehabilitate him. Throughout the process, you can offer the dog an acupressure session that will address both his physical and emotional issues. An acupressure session is non-invasive and safe, and can also help with bonding.

Continued on page 74.

Selecting acupoints that can desensitize the constant fear he has endured will go a long way toward helping him relax and restore his feelings of well-being.

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Continued from page 73.

ACUPRESSURE AND CHINESE MEDICINE For newer readers, acupressure is based on Chinese medicine and has been used to sustain the health and well-being of humans and animals for thousands of years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), channels or pathways flow through the body, carrying life-promoting energy called “chi” and other vital substances. When the flow of vital substances is blocked, the body becomes unbalanced and poorly-nourished. If the organ systems of the body do not receive nourishment they cannot function properly, and this can lead to illness.

Along each of the channels are pools of chi known as “acupoints”; we can access these points because they are just beneath the skin. When stimulated, the acupoints can encourage the flow of chi along the pathways and break up blockages, thus restoring a harmonious, balanced flow of chi and other vital substances.

Bai Hui

TH 5

Lateral

Pe 6

Medial

St36

Lateral

Being abandoned takes a heavy toll on a dog. The sooner we can restore the flow of chi within his body, the better he will feel, both physically and emotionally.

ACUPRESSURE SESSION FOR PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING Conquering all the ills of an abandoned dog is a tall order.

However, specific acupoints are known to help with general health and well-being. A dog living on the streets and scavenging to survive often has problems with digestion. This is the first issue to address because food and the body’s ability to absorb nutrients are related to health, a sense of grounding and contentment.

Another huge element in reconditioning an abandoned dog is addressing the fear, confusion and disorientation he experienced as he struggled to survive. Selecting acupoints that can desensitize the constant fear he has endured will go a long way toward helping him relax and restore his feelings of well-being.

An acupressure session for a previously abandoned dog should include acupoints that help with digestion, overall health and well-being, and emotional issues (see chart above).

Stomach 36 (St 36) is the go-to acupoint for all digestive conditions. It is known as the “Master Point” for the gastrointestinal tract, because when stimulated, it enhances the entire digestion process including the breakdown of nutrients to make them bioavailable. St 36 can contribute to a feeling of groundedness while also stimulating the immune system.

Pericardium 6 (Pe 6) and Triple Heater 5 (TH 5) can be held simultaneously. Pe 6 (known as the “Inner Gate”) is on the medial side above the wrist on the dog’s foreleg, while TH 5 (the “Outer Gate”) is on the opposite lateral side above the wrist.

Together, these acupoints calm the spirit, support the heart, and strengthen the body to ward off external pathogens. By holding these two points at the same time, you are effectively balancing the dog’s internal organs and building his immune system.

The Bai Hui point is a classical acupoint for animals. Dogs usually love having it scratched. It is the “Point of 100 Meeting” and is also called “Heaven’s Gate”. This point energizes the spine and hind limbs while providing a profound sense of wellbeing in dogs. Some dogs actually dance when the Bai Hui point is scratched. It is located on the sacrum along the dorsal midline.

A previously abandoned dog probably has health problems needing veterinary attention, along with possible behavioral issues requiring professional consultation. By offering the dog this acupressure session every third day, you can join this team in helping him recover from an experience he should never have had to go through.

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Kennelcough

By Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH

Vaccination doesn’t guarantee your dog won’t get kennel cough. Find out why, and how an integrative approach that includes Chinese herbs and homeopathy can combat this contagious respiratory disease.

Kennel cough is an extremely contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It’s named for the fact that it’s most commonly contracted in situations where large numbers of dogs come together – e.g. boarding kennels. But your dog can also get kennel cough (known as infectious tracheobronchitis) at dog daycares, dog parks and other areas frequented by lots of canines. This article looks at why vaccinating against kennel cough isn’t a failsafe, and how an integrative approach to the disease, including Chinese herbs and homeopathy, is most effective.

WHY KENNEL COUGH REQUIRES A MULTIPRONGED APPROACH Kennel cough was among the conditions that showed me the benefits of integrative medicine. While an extern at the Foxhound breeding colony at the NIH in 1979, my job was to culture every coughing dog. Amazingly, there were few similar organisms

present in each dog, and over a dozen different bacteria present in the kennel. Viruses were also certainly implicated.

I began to wonder how any vaccine could be effective against kennel cough. When I was a new graduate, I worked in over ten clinics as a part time and relief veterinarian. Each clinic had very different protocols for treating kennel cough, ranging from honey to multiple drugs.

Multiple organisms reside in the respiratory tract. They cause no clinical signs unless triggered by stressors like viruses, smoke, crowding, poor ventilation, etc. By deeply improving the health of each dog, respiratory symptoms rarely develop even when the animal is exposed to “infectious” organisms.

Many congenital abnormalities can also be resolved with integrative approaches.

Continued on page 76.

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Continued from page 75.

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES TO THE RESCUE Interestingly, once a majority of clients in a veterinary practice are using various holistic approaches to maintain health, very few cases of kennel cough are seen, even in situations with high numbers of dogs. Most of the cases reported were in newly adopted dogs.

Integrative treatments may focus both on symptom relief and on correcting the underlying imbalance allowing the condition to occur. Chinese herbs (and other TCVM modalities such as acupuncture, Tui Na, food therapy) and homeopathy are the most likely modalities for resolving the tendency to get any infection, so they will be primarily addressed in this article.

different homeopathic remedies. Fewer than five animals (out of 20 homeopathic veterinarians interviewed) needed multiple remedies or took over a week to resolve.

Each homeopathic medicine is chosen based on symptoms shown in the animal. Common symptoms of kennel cough include sudden onset of sneezing, spontaneous hacking, dry coughing that may induce gagging, easily inducible cough, and sometimes mandibular lymphadenopathy, nasal and/or ocular discharge. What helps with the remedy selection is how each animal is acting differently with these symptoms. Does the cough occur in the morning, on exposure to cold air, after eating a cracker or other dry food, etc.?

Any one of the 4,000+ medicines could be needed to treat kennel

Western herbs, Reiki, flower essences, chiropractic, osteopathy and supplements can also be used to resolve any one episode of kennel cough, as well as build health over time. Be sure to work with an integrative or holistic veterinarian before trying any new therapies on your dog.

CHINESE HERBS The selection of Chinese herbs for kennel cough is based on the individual characteristics of the dog as well as the pathology, so it’s very important to consult with a veterinarian who is wellversed in their use.

• Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang – one veterinarian has had nice results with this, often along with using allopathic medications.

• Wei Chi Booster – helps the immune system.

• Yin Qiao San – for the early stages of infection with fever and red tongue with yellow coating.

• Qing Fei San – for phlegm heat with fever. Dry, red tongue with surging rapid pulse.

• Zhi Shou San – can stop coughing in many animals.

• Lonicera and Forsythia (commonly used for colds and flu Because of the variety of organisms in people) – a remote town that had no kennel cough for present, vaccination has focused on Bordetella years was visited by a coughing dog, after which most bronchiseptica. Vaccines (different organisms, dogs began coughing. This herb worked in a few days different formulations) have been used since 1970, for most of them. yet many questions are still not answered.

THE ISSUE WITH VACCINATION

HOMEOPATHY

A study done in 2004 “compared the effectiveness of intranasal (IN) vaccines containing Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine-parainfluenza virus, with (IN-BPA) or without (IN-BP) canine-adenovirus type 2, for prevention of kennel cough at a humane shelter…. The IN-BP and IN-BPA vaccines were 20.7% and 24.4% effective, respectively, in reducing coughing compared with a placebo vaccine.” As you can see, these percentages cough aren’t very high.

Historically, homeopathy has been a superior approach for human epidemic situations such as influenza, typhoid and yellow fever. In animals, parvo, distemper and kennel cough frequently resolve quickly with homeopathy, even in cases not already under constitutional holistic care.

In my homeopathic practice, the few cases of kennel I’ve seen resolved within 48 hours with one of a variety of

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ADDITIONAL HOLISTIC MODALITIES FOR

KENNEL COUGH

• Vitamins C (500 to 2,000 mg per day, divided) and E (800 to 2,400 IU daily).

• Colostrum at 500 mg per 25 pounds.

• Honey, or honey and lemon juice, or coconut oil can be soothing and any amount is safe; average dose is 1 tsp per 20 pounds.

• Marshmallow root is gentler than commonlyused slippery elm; dissolve 1 tsp in 8 ounces warm water and give a teaspoon at a time.

water, and a tickling cough from an irritated throat or larynx.

• Lachesis – aversion to having the throat touched, cough on touching the throat, seeking cold, averse to abdominal palpation, thirsty and irritable.

• Morgan Bach – congestion, and as support for other remedies.

• Rumex – tickling in throat and larynx, worse from barking, and worse when going out in cold weather.

• Spongia – dry croupy cough, larynx sensitive to touch, better from eating or drinking, worse in the wind.

• Other remedies reported as successful include Antimoniumtartaricum, Euphrasia, Conium, Cocculus-cacti, Bromium, Ipecac pulsatilla and Rhu-toxicodendrum.

Give a few pellets of 30c in the mouth several times a day.

Give less frequently as the dog improves. Consult your homeopathic veterinarian (he/she can help by phone) if there is a worsening of either the cough or how your dog feels in general. One joy of seeing each dog as unique is that we can resolve acute infections as well as more challenging tracheal diseases, while building overall health. This approach can also prevent problems, as well as inhibit further spread of infection in group settings such as kennels, day care or training facilities.

cough, and a few seem to help with many dogs as reported by a number of homeopathic veterinarians: • Aconitum – given at the very beginning of any infection, especially in group settings to prevent or minimize symptoms.

Often, the dogs are acting more fearful and may be febrile.

• Belladonna – lots of redness anywhere on the body, including the skin and mucus membranes, as well as fever, panting, feeling hot and seeking cold areas, and a harsh strong cough.

• Bryonia – each cough hurts because it moves the body, and every motion hurts these patients.

• Drosera – a common internet suggestion that focuses on the larynx. For a spasmodic, dry cough that’s worse after midnight.

• Kennel cough nosode – a nosode is made from the sputum of an infected dog. There are many differing opinions about the use of nosodes in preventing illness. When symptoms are not clear, some homeopathic veterinarians begin with these.

• Pertussinum – a nosode made from whooping cough.

Sometimes used preventatively; other times as part of the homeopathic treatment.

• Phosphorus – dogs exhibit fear of loud noises, are better for being petted and the center of attention, have a thirst for cold December 2017/January 2018

77

Photo courtesy of Tracey Fenolio

to the rescue Fetching Tails Foundation Rescue code:

Photo courtesy of Tracey Fenolio

FTFRescue

Left and middle: Rio before and after. Thanks to the dedication of FTF’s staff and volunteers, Reo is happy, healthy, and pain-free!

Right: FTF co-founders – Kristen, Linda, and Doreen – at a weekly adoption show with some of their adoptable pups.

LOCATION: Suburban Chicago, IL YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2015 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/FOSTER HOMES: “We have about 90 volunteers and 40 foster homes,” says Jenna Youngs, FTF writer and team leader. “We don’t have a shelter, so all our adoptables live in foster homes.”

TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: As an all-breed dog rescue, FTF takes pride in saving all dogs in need, including pitbull mixes, senior dogs and even dogs with major medical issues. “We have passionate, devoted foster families and are able to save many dogs with special needs because of their big hearts and tender care,” says Jenna. The rescue has treated dogs with health issues such as heartworm, parvovirus, cancer, diabetes and severe injuries. “Since we started in April of 2015, we have rescued more than 840 dogs.”

FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: “Our volunteers are very creative, and have come up with so many clever ways to raise much-needed funds for the dogs,” says Jenna. They plan a variety of events that take place throughout the year, including a formal gala, pub

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Animal Wellness

Follow on

.com/FetchingFTaacebook ilsFoundation

crawls, golf outings, and a Mother’s Day flower sale. FTF also offers a collection of merchandise on their website, and has a GoFundMe page for dogs requiring emergency medical care.

FAVORITE RESCUE STORY: “One of our most famous stories involves Reo,” says Jenna. “He was found tied to a fence.

He was one of the most matted dogs we had seen, and was also blind and deaf; he was limping badly and appeared to be in pain so we rushed him to our partner vet.” After hours of grooming, staff discovered bite wounds covering Reo’s face, and also realized he was missing a hind foot. Due to the severity of his injuries, the vet had to remove one of his eyes.

“I fostered Reo after his eye surgery to help him heal,” says Jenna. “He had his fair share of issues, including separation anxiety, because of everything he went through. But he’s the biggest teddy bear, and when you pick him up he gives the best hugs.” Today, Reo is settled in his forever home with a loving retired couple who give him all the affection and care he needs.

FetchingTailsFoundation.org

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.

For their full stories, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

CANADA RESCUES

USA RESCUES

Boxer Rescue Ontario Burlington, Ontario Rescue Code: BOXER www.boxerrescueontario.com

A Different Breed Animal Rescue Organization Dallas, Texas Rescue Code: ADBRESCUE www.adifferentbreed.org

Dhana Metta Rescue Society Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: DHANA www.dhanamettarescuesociety.org

All Aboard Animal Rescue Fort Collins, California Rescue Code: AAAR www.aaanimalrescue.org

Grand River All Breed Rescue Cambridge, Ontario Rescue Code: GRAB www.grandriveallbreedrescue.ca

Anchors Up Rescue Group Las Vegas, Nevada Rescue Code: ANCHORSUP www.anchorsuprescuegroup.org

Home At Last Dog Rescue Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: HALDR www.homeatlastdogrescuebc.ca

Ark Animal Sanctuary Houlton, Maine Rescue Code: ARK www.arksanctuary.com

K9 Crusaders Cobourg, Ontario Rescue Code: K9C www.k9c.ca

Basset Rescue Of Old Dominion Charlottesville, Virginia Rescue Code: BROOD www.brood-va.org

Little Paws Rescue Society Vancouver, British Columbia Rescue Code: LPRS www.littlepawsrescue.ca

Big Fluffy Dog Rescue Nashville, Tennessee Rescue Code: BFDR www.bigfluffydogs.com

Marshall’s Dog Rescue Perth, Ontario Rescue Code: MARSHALL www.marshalldogrescue.com

Blind Dog Rescue Alliance Seymour, Connecticut Rescue Code: BDRA www.blinddogrescue.org

Precious Paws Rescue Barrie, Ontario Rescue Code: PPR www.preciouspawsrescue.ca

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue Hickory, North Carolina Rescue Code: BRBR www.blueridgeboxerrescue.com

Ruff Start New Beginnings Colborne, Ontario Rescue Code: RSNB www.ruffstartnewbeginnings.com

Central Ohio Pomeranian Rescue Delaware, Ohio Rescue Code: COPR www.ohiopomrescue.com

Save Our Scruff Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SOS www.saveourscruff.org

DC Shiba Inu Rescue Washington, DC Rescue Code: DCSIR www.dcsir.org

Snookie’s Society Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SNOOKIE www.snookiessociety.com

Fetching Tails Foundation Itasca, Illinois Rescue Code: AWA283 www.fetchingtailsfoundation.com

TEAM Dog Rescue Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: TEAM www.teamdogrescue.ca

Floyd Felines Rome, Georgia Rescue Code: FLOYD www.floydfelines.com

The Animal Guardian Society Oshawa, Ontario Rescue Code: TAGS www.animalguardian.org

Forever Loved Pets Sanctuary Scottsdale, Arizona Rescue Code: FLPS www.foreverlovedpets.org

Zoe’s Animal Rescue Society Edmonton, Alberta Rescue Code: ZOE www.zoesanimalrescue.org

Friends of Upland Animal Shelter Upland, California Rescue Code: FRIENDS www.friendsofuplandanimalshelter.org

All Paws Matter Stouffville, Ontario Rescue Code: APM1423 www.allpawsmatter.ca

GREY2K USA Arlington, Massachusetts Rescue Code: GREY2K www.grey2k.org

Adopt Me Rescue Studio City, California Rescue Code: ADOPTME www.adoptmerescue.org

Good Karma Dog Rescue River Vale, New Jersey Rescue Code: GKDR www.goodkarmadogrescue.com Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary Mead, Washington Rescue Code: AWA278 www.highergroundanimalsanctuary.org Mini Mighty Mutts Phoenix, Arizona Rescue Code: AWA287 www.minimightymutts.com Outcast Rescue Catasauqua, Pennsylvania Rescue Code: OUTCAST www.outcastrescue.com PAWS Project Middleton, New England Rescue Code: PAWS www.facebook.com/PAWSMitzvah The Cat Network Miami, Florida Rescue Code: THECATNETWORK www.thecatnetwork.org The Misfits Dogs Rescue Colorado Springs, Colorado Rescue Code: MISFIT www.misfitcrusaders.com The Sanctuary For Senior Dogs Cleveland, Ohio Rescue Code: AWA092 www.sanctuaryforseniordogs.org Wags 2 Wishes Animal Rescue Plainfield, Illinois Rescue Code: W2W www.w2wrescue.com

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December 2017/January 2018

79

The natural, indigenous dog

By Michael W. Fox, DVM, and Deanna L. Krantz

What did dogs look like before they were domesticated and bred into the many different shapes and sizes we see today? Natural, aboriginal dogs still exist in some parts of the world – and they tend to have more robust health than many modern breeds.

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Animal Wellness

Perhaps no other animal displays as many diverse forms as the domesticated dog.

From the great Dane to the toy poodle, dog breeds can look so different from one another that it’s sometimes hard to remember they’re from the same species.

All these variations have arisen from decades and centuries of selective and extreme breeding, which has not only led to a host of genetic health issues in many breeds (see chart below), but also raises an interesting question – what did dogs look like when they were first domesticated?

You might be surprised to learn that natural, aboriginal dogs still exist in some parts of the world, and they tend to be more robust than many of today’s breeds. This article will focus on our experience with the native dogs of the Nilgiris in south India; we became familiar with these dogs while running an animal shelter and providing community veterinary services for ten years starting in the late 1990s.

A PROFILE OF THE NATURAL DOG Natural, aboriginal dogs can still be found in many developing countries like India, especially in rural communities, as well as in the US, as detailed in my books Dog Body, Dog Mind and The Dog, Its Domestication and Behavior. One example is the so-called Carolina dog or American dingo, originally a landrace or naturally selected type of dog that was discovered living as a wild or free-roaming dog by Dr. I. Lehr Brisbin. A breed standard has been developed by the United Kennel Club that now specifies the appearance of these dogs – which could be their undoing if genetic diversity declines.

We have met very similar dogs from some of the Native American reservations in Minnesota and the Dakotas.

In appearance, these dogs vary in size from 25 to 50 pounds. They are long of limb, with usually erect or semi-erect ears. Tails are normally long and straight and are curled upward or downward in display, though some dogs have more permanently up-and-curled “Spitz” tails.

Normally, all these dogs are protective and very faithful to their owners. They have good musculature, and the males are clearly more robust and have more powerful jaws than the females. All have characteristically small paws relative to their size, as compared to most modern breeds. The females are more protective towards their puppies than non-native breeds; they will choose to whelp in a secluded place and may sometimes burrow a den. They will often nurse their pups for several weeks longer than other dogs do – pups may continue to be accepted as old as four to five months of age.

The native dog’s sense of smell and tracking abilities are considered superior to that of most imported European breeds. They are skilled hunters, and tribal people rear these dogs to guide them in the forest and hunt smaller animals. These dogs also instinctively alert to the scent tracks of potentially dangerous panthers, tigers, wild boar and cobras, and are especially on the alert after dark. They are noted for their courage and tenacity, and will defend their owners from wild boar and sloth bear attacks. Around other domestic animals, such as chickens, calves and goats, with which they normally live in villages and tribal settlements, they are gentle and even

EFFORTS IN THE WEST TO REDUCE INDIGENOUS/ ABORIGINAL DOG NUMBERS BY VARIOUS MEANS (BOTH HUMANE AND INHUMANE) FOR PUBLIC HEALTH REASONS (ESPECIALLY RABIES CONTROL) MAY ACTUALLY LEAD TO THE DISAPPEARANCE OF LANDRACES AND THE LOSS OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN REGIONAL CANINE POPULATIONS. protective, most probably as a result of selective breeding and training.

These dogs have great stamina and better resistance to many diseases when compared to imported breeds and cross-breeds. They are able to sustain themselves as scavengers, often existing on a subsistence diet that for other dogs would frequently mean rickets, stunted growth and other deficiency diseases.

They show innate nutritional wisdom, and have often been seen eating mineral-rich dirt, and the feces of suckling calves, which are rich in enzymes, bacteria and protein.

Continued on page 82.

The bell-shaped curve illustrates how the susceptibility and severity of orthopedic diseases increase as size and shape either increase or decrease from the ancestral size. Changes greater than three standard deviations in either direction are capable of being lethal.

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81

The author has two indigenous dogs from Nilgiris (left and right).

An Indian villager feeding community dogs, some of which have homes/owners. Note the coat color diversity, but similar size and conformation.

Bingo is a prototypical Nilgiris aboriginal “country” dog.

Above 3 photos: Typical Nilgiris red dogs.

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Continued from page 81.

The native dogs’ vocal repertoire varies considerably, and is generally rich and subtle in terms of sound combinations (like growlwhines, yelp-barks and pant-huffs), giving a clear indication of an animal’s emotional state and intentions. Some emit low “huffs” and growls when sensing danger, while others give full voice (not preferred when in the potentially dangerous jungle). They will give different barks when alerting to wild boar in the bush versus monkeys in trees, and will engage in coyote-like yip-yap howls when they sing in choral groups. One distinctive sound some of these dogs make in greeting is a coo-like twitter with high notes that sound like whistling, much like the whistle-call of the Dhole or Asiatic Wild dog.

state of potential extinction due to breeders introducing foreign “exotic” European breeds that are seen as a status symbol.

Many of these purebreds are deliberately crossed with the Nilgiris native dog, in part to help them adapt better to local conditions, which further dilutes and “contaminates” the genetic lineage of the indigenous dogs.

Coat colors among Nilgiris native dogs include black, red, tan, white, piebald and brindle. The most characteristic coat color is red (or ruddy tan), possibly a parallel or convergent adaptive coloration seen in the indigenous wild dog (Cuon alpinus), also known as the Dhole or Chennai, one of the few wild canid species that hunt in packs.

A policy decision to not neuter classic phenotypes of this now-threatened domestic dog variety would be a wise move in this and other bioregions where there are viable populations of relatively “pure” indigenous aboriginal dogs. This would allow the conservation of an ancient lineage, and preserve the beauty and temperament of the Nilgiris native dog (and other indigenous dogs), which some believe is the classic prototype of the earliest domesticated dog.

SAVING INDIGENOUS DOGS Nilgiris native dogs, like other indigenous dogs around much of the world, are in a

Outside breeds introduced into the gene pool of this native lineage in the Nilgiris include the German shepherd (Alsatian), Doberman, Labrador retriever, Rottweiler, terriers and hounds brought in decades ago by the British, and more recently by affluent Indian citizens.

December 2017/January 2018

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book reviews

Title: Molly and Monet Author: Diane R. Isaacs, PhD Loss is difficult to cope with, regardless of what form it takes. In her new internationally acclaimed book, Molly and Monet, Dr. Diane Isaacs takes an original approach to dealing with the death of a loved one – by telling a story of loss and new love through the eyes of two charming dogs.

Dr. Isaac’s witty yet tender story captures the essence of grief and recovery by giving readers a unique, four-legged perspective.

The book jumps back and forth between the narratives of Molly and Monet as they witness their respective “parents” finding comfort in each other after losing their partners. As their humans heal, the dogs simultaneously come to terms with the changes in their own lives, creating a beautiful metaphor for loss that will appeal to children and adults alike.

A wonderful and refreshing read, Molly and Monet offers comfort and support to anyone on the road to acceptance following a loss.

Publisher: Molly & Monet Publications

Title: Rescued Authors: Peter Zheutlin Each year, 3.3 million dogs enter U.S. animal shelters.

At least 20% of these animals are euthanized.

As a follow-up to his New York Times bestseller Rescue Road, Peter Zheutlin’s new book, Rescued, demonstrates how rescuing a dog not only saves an animal destined for death row, but deeply enriches the human experience.

Rescued draws on real life stories from adoptive pet

parents to capture the heartwarming moments – and challenges – that come with rescuing a canine companion. Touching on the physical and emotional benefits of sharing your life with a dog, Zheutlin emphasizes just how much of an impact our furry friends have on our daily lives. He writes that their resilience offers us the perspective we need to gain a greater appreciation for life, and that giving a rescue animal a home is not only rewarding, but life-altering.

A beautifully descriptive book dotted with relatable tales about the humancanine bond, Rescued will make you want to thank your dog… and even inspire you to rescue another.

Publisher: TarcherPerigee

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New Year s ’ promise

tail end

Poppy, the

By Georgia A. Hubley

My parents always made New Year’s promises instead of resolutions. So I was elated when I was told that one of those promises would be a puppy for my birthday. Months later, when the big day rolled around, there he was – a three-month-old white fox terrier with a big brown spot on the top of his head, and a brown tip at the end of his tail.

“What are you going to name him?” Dad asked.

Before I could reply, the puppy jumped from my lap and sprinted to Mom’s flower bed of beautiful Oriental poppies. Then he raced back and dropped a magnificent bright orange poppy flower at my feet.

Even though Mom wasn’t pleased that several plants had been trampled, I knew what I was going to name my new friend. “I’m calling him Poppy,” I announced.

By sunrise, Poppy no longer reeked of skunk, and was welcomed back into the house. “He smells like a salad,” I giggled as I scooped him into my arms.

Occasionally, Mom needed an extra egg or two, so Poppy and I would make an afternoon egg run. However, there were days when no eggs were to be found. Sometimes a skunk would sneak into the chicken house during broad daylight and steal the eggs before we got there. I was always relieved when I didn’t catch it in the act, and I’m sure Poppy was too. After his mishap, he soon learned that chasing me, birds, squirrels and rabbits was much more fun and didn’t have unpleasant consequences.

I’ll be forever grateful for Poppy, my faithful companion – and to Mom and Dad for making New Year’s promises instead of resolutions!

“It’s perfect,” Mom chuckled wryly. “Now help me puppy-proof the poppy bed with wire mesh fencing.”

The following morning, Poppy joined me in my favorite morning chore of gathering eggs from the 30 hens in our chicken house.

My least favorite chore came at dusk, and involved securing the chicken house from predators. One evening, Poppy and I had an encounter with a skunk on the way to lock up the chickens.

When the skunk ran across our path, Poppy began barking and the skunk retaliated by spraying him.

Poppy yelped and I screamed – “A skunk got Poppy!” – as we dashed back to the house. Mom proceeded to bath him in a big galvanized tub. First, he was soaped with a mixture of baby shampoo and baking soda, then he was bathed three times in tomato juice. That night, he had to sleep in the front porch instead of at the foot of my bed.

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feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

CAT CHAT

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T GIVE YOUR CAT MILK HEALTH INSURANCE FOR KITTIES

•Two feline friends

break Guinness World Records • How to get her to drink more water

Oreo THE

CAT

This handsome tuxedo kitty is a beloved children’s book character and an ambassador for responsible animal guardianship – he also has almost a million fans!

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Oreo cat

By Ann Brightman

This handsome tuxedo cat is full of personality and poise! Oreo’s multi-faceted career has ranged from appearing as a comic strip and children’s book character, to taking over social media and becoming an ambassador for pet education.

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Images courtesy of Tina Modugno

The

You wouldn’t know it to look at him, but Oreo came close to death’s door when he was a tiny kitten. Now, he’s a social media star who has entertained countless kids, appeared in a film, and is even credited with saving the life of a young girl victimized by cyberbullies.

Oreo was less than two weeks old when he and his sister were found hiding under a car in the backyard of Tina Modugno’s brother-in-law. “Once I saw how small they were, I could not bear to part with them,” says Tina, who lives in Quebec, Canada. “I had recently lost my job and was home all day, so my husband and I decided to foster them until we found them homes.”

Early one morning, Tina discovered Oreo unconscious and unbreathing. “All I could think of was to give him mouth-to-nose,” she says. “It wasn’t easy because he was so small, but I got him breathing again.” After rushing Oreo to the vet, Tina learned that he had a serious case of parasites. Even with treatment, it was a few weeks before Oreo recovered. By then, the couple had decided to keep him.

Tina soon realized there was something special about her new kitty. “As he got older, it was easy to see he was super smart. He would understand things so quickly and even ended up teaching the older cats how to play with certain toys. He was very easy to train if given a reward.”

He would understand things so quickly and even ended up teaching the older cats how to play with certain toys.

Since losing her job, Tina had begun illustrating children’s books and educational content for websites. “I wanted to create a character based on Oreo. I started doodling him and posting little jokes in the form of a comic strip on my then Tumblr art blog.

People really seemed to like it. Eventually, the art blog became an Oreo Cat blog and then I moved onto Facebook and Instagram.”

The next step on Oreo’s rise to stardom was a children’s book called The Oreo Cat: Bacons and Other Stuff.

Oreo has proved himself to be very photogenic. “I always keep my camera handy because he is always doing something weird,” says Tina. “With all the funny short video clips I began to accumulate, I decided to try Vine. Oreo sometimes jumps like he’s a cross between a cat and a kangaroo. I would get short clips of him on video doing his hops and post them to Vine. One day his account just blew up and we wound up with over 200,000 followers in a few months. At the end of 2016, Oreo was dubbed ‘Hey Ya Cat’

by Buzzfeed and one of the most important cats of the year thanks to his viral Vine to the tune of Hey Ya by Outkast.

Oreo’s popularity continued ballooning. “Our biggest social platform today is Musical.ly,” Tina says. “Oreo has accumulated December 2017/January 2018

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Images courtesy of Tina Modugno

over 670,000 followers and it grows daily. We strive to keep all our content kid-friendly and always add a touch of comedy.

Thanks to Oreo’s presence on Musical.ly, we were able to save the life of a 12-year-old girl who was self-mutilating as a result of cyberbullying.”

Along with his online presence, Oreo also had a cameo in the film Nine Lives, and appeared on Daybreak Montreal in February 2016 to promote Tina’s newly-published children’s book Atchoum and Oreo: First Day of School,* which deals with the issue of bullying.

glossy coat. “I sometimes make homemade food for him and our other cats. Oreo loves cooked broccoli, carrots and peas, as well as watermelon and cantaloupe! Every so often I will get a nice piece of trout and steam it for him and the others.”

When asked what she loves best about her fluffy tuxedo cat, Tina’s answer is simple but telling: “There is no other cat quite like Oreo in this world.” His millions of fans would no doubt agree! *Read our cover story about Atchoum in Volume 18, Issue 5.

“We also have a weekly live streaming show every Monday on the Live.ly app, created by Musical.ly,” Tina continues.

“It’s called The PET.ly Show and is centered on DIY projects for pets. We also encourage kids to spend more quality time with their pets.

This isn’t a complete list of everything Oreo does, by a long shot. He’s also an ambassador for The Pet Education Project, a non-profit that teaches people about responsible pet ownership.

“I am very passionate about this project. Oreo’s following is mainly young kids and I feel it’s so important to help educate them about pet care.”

With his busy lifestyle, Tina knows it’s important to make sure Oreo stays healthy, and it shows in his bright eyes and gorgeous

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FIND Oreo ONLINE theoreocat.com

facebook.com/TheOreoCat instagram.com/theoreocatofficial/?hl=en theoreocat.tumblr.com youtube.com/user/Bedugno

Two years ago, Detroit locals William and Lauren Powers decided to get a couple of kittens. They settled on a Maine Coon and a Starfell Savannah.

When the Maine Coon, Cygnus, was still young, Will and Lauren – both veterinarians – became concerned about the abnormal length of his tail. Seeking answers, they posted a photo of their kitten online, asking other vets for input. Immediately, the photo went viral.

“Guinness World Records saw the post and asked us to measure Cygnus,” says Will. “We did, and he crushed the world record at only a year old. As a result, they came to our home and took pictures and did official measurements. While there, they saw our other cat, Arcturus, and thought he could break the height record – and he did!”

cat chat

RECORD-BREAKING KITTIES

Today, both Cygnus and Arcturus are featured in The Guinness World Records Book. According to Will, they also make regular public appearances to help raise money and awareness for homeless cats.

Find these famous felines on Instagram @Starcats_detroit.

KEEPING YOUR CAT HYDRATED Even during the winter months, it’s important for your cat to stay hydrated, especially when the central heating comes on.

Here’s some insight into feline nature that will help you ensure he drinks enough water, year-round: • Cats tend to gravitate toward faucets and fountains, due to a natural instinct that tells them moving water is safer to drink.

• Cats favor metal or ceramic bowls over plastic, which can alter the taste of water.

• They prefer wide dishes that prevent their whiskers from hitting the sides.

• Cats prefer some distance between their food and water sources. In the wild, cats normally wouldn’t drink from a source near their kill.

• Cats are very sensitive to the taste and temperature of their water.

They prefer it cold and fresh, and may be opposed to tap water that contains too many chemicals. Use filtered or reverse osmosis water. nerdist.com/do-cats-really-hate-water-simons-cat-purrrfectly-explains-things

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Buying

By Jo Singer, MSW, CSW, LCSW, (Ret.)

health insurance for your cat?

A healthy lifestyle can help minimize veterinary expenses, but it can’t guarantee your cat will never get sick or injured. Given the high cost of veterinary care, buying health insurance for your kitty is a wise idea.

Keeping our cats healthy and happy is a top priority.

Thanks to remarkable advances in veterinary care, doctors can quickly diagnose and treat a wide range of complicated medical conditions and serious injuries.

The downside is that these lifesaving measures can be extremely expensive and even unaffordable to many.

Because of the rising cost of comprehensive veterinary care, many people are purchasing pet health insurance for their cats. This ensures that any necessary and/or unexpected veterinary care is more affordable. Health insurance can give you peace of mind if your kitty ever gets sick or injured.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN INSURANCE POLICY There are a wide range of pet health insurance policies to choose from, ranging from catastrophic only coverage, to policies that cover office visits, veterinary exam fees, medications and even alternative treatments for your cat. Unfortunately, no pet health insurance policies cover pre-existing conditions; some will cover hereditary conditions, but many do not.

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Questions to ask before buying a policy

Does the policy cover routine veterinary visits? Some providers don’t, while others will, so it’s important to do your research. Many offer riders for an additional fee to cover annual wellness exams, dental care and other necessary services. A few providers require you to pay for the cost of routine exams and veterinary visits, and these are not reimbursable.

Be sure to inquire whether the plan has unlimited coverage and if it reimburses for veterinary fees.

What conditions does the plan include, and which are excluded?

This is an especially important question to ask if you and your vet take a holistic approach to your cat’s healthcare. Not all providers cover alternative therapies, or they may only cover a few selected modalities.

How much will it cost? Visit several providers’ websites and ask for quotes on the plans that best suit you and your cat’s needs. The majority of providers have expert, helpful agents with whom you can chat on the phone. They can answer your questions about pricing and anything else you need to know, and discuss the various policies that suit your needs.

Is there an age limit for enrollment? While some providers will accept older cats into their programs, the optimum time to purchase pet health insurance is when your cat is young and healthy.

Good pet health insurance plans offer policies that provide the appropriate amount of coverage at an affordable cost. Many providers offer options that allow you to customize your deductibles, the reimbursement percentage more commonly known as co-insurance. But be careful to steer clear of any plans that charge per-incident deductibles as this will end up reducing your payouts. Fortunately, the majority of high quality plans offer annual deductibles.

Most pet health insurance plans cover cats from kittenhood into their senior years. Many have annual reimbursement caps, while others are unlimited. For example, one provider offers an optimum plan with an annual cap of $20,000. Their top comprehensive plan includes wellness, dental, alternative treatments such as acupuncture, and even, if recommended by a veterinarian, stem cell therapy. While other providers may offer policies with no annual caps, they may charge extra for riders that will cover annual wellness visits.

The high cost of care

Although a young cat may not get seriously ill, unexpected health emergencies can and do occur. Veterinary specialists can provide cats with state-of-the art medical care, but the price tag can be staggering. Think about whether or not you could afford extensive veterinary care if it became necessary. For example, should your cat accidently ingest a cooked chicken bone, the cost of abdominal surgery to remove it can average $2,000. The fee for fixing a broken leg can cost up to $1,600, and to repair a ruptured bile duct, the price tag could be over $2,000.

Having to make serious medical decisions for your cat based on how much you can afford – or not – can be excruciatingly stressful. Buying health insurance will help ensure that your beloved kitty can get all the necessary care he needs, if or when it becomes necessary.

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Why cats shouldn’t

drink milk

By Nadia Ali

PEOPLE HAVE BEEN GIVING MILK TO THEIR CATS FOR

AS LONG AS MOST OF US CAN REMEMBER – BUT THE TRUTH IS, IT ISN’T GOOD FOR THEM. FIND OUT WHY.

It

seems natural to give cats milk. Most kitties love it, and in the past, it was regarded as traditional food for most housecats. But it turns out that it’s not really a good idea. In fact, feeding milk to our cats isn’t something that’s encouraged by veterinarians and other feline authorities.

DON’T KITTENS NEED MILK? Kittens are dependent on milk – but only from mother cats. By the time they are four to ten weeks old, they begin to mature and wean off their mothers’ milk. This is when their bodies stop producing an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme breaks down the sugar content found in a mother cat’s milk and enables a kitten to digest the milk properly. “At around six months of age, a cat’s ability to produce lactase will be at adult levels, which are significantly lower than kitten levels,” says veterinarian Dr. Patrick Mahaney.

As the lactase disappears from a growing cat’s system, so does his ability to digest milk.

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Most kittens slowly become lactose intolerant as they mature into adult cats, although Dr. Mahaney adds that “not all cats are lactose intolerant. Each cat’s ability to digest lactose is different.”

WHY DO CATS LOVE MILK SO MUCH? So why do cats so readily drink milk when their digestive systems may not be able to handle it? It’s simple – it’s fresh and cold, and they like the taste, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

Compare it to children who love candy, and given the opportunity, will happily eat as much as they can. Cats are similar when it comes to milk, so if you give your kitty a saucerful, he’ll enthusiastically lap it up even though it may not be good for him.

Goat’s milk CAN MAKE A

HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE If you still can’t resist sharing some milk with your cat, Dr. Mahaney recommends switching to products that are easier on a cat’s sensitive digestive system.

“I have had success with my feline patients consuming goat milk-based products that are either dehydrated or in fresh or frozen liquid formats,” he says. “Just remember that when you are adding milk, you could be adding WHAT MAKES MILK BAD FOR CATS? excess calories to your cat’s diet. So make In most cases, a tiny bit of milk for a treat (i.e. the occasional teaspoon) sure to remove a commensurate portion shouldn’t do your cat any harm, but don’t make it a habit. The milk we drink of food to account for the calories from is not suitable for cats. “The minute milk is pasteurized, it changes the protein,” the milk.” says veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa. “When it is homogenized, the particles leak through the gut wall, causing inflammation in a cat’s body.” Too much milk can cause diarrhea, gas and other digestive upsets. According to the ASPCA, milk-based products such as cheese and ice cream can lead to the same digestive issues, if cats eat too much.

CAN HE REALLY DO WITHOUT MILK?

The same can apply to cheese.

Goat cheese tends to be easier to digest than cheese made from cow’s milk.

The answer is yes. As much as your cat may love milk, he doesn’t need it in his diet. In fact, it really holds no nutritional benefits for him. Once a cat is weaned from his mother’s milk and moves onto solid food, all he really needs to drink is water. Most veterinarians agree that giving milk to cats causes more health issues than it does any good. Although your cat may not be as eager to drink water as he is to drink milk, it’s the best form of hydration and definitely essential to his health. Adding a bit of liquid from a tin of salmon or other water-packed tinned fish to his water bowl will encourage him to drink more – and may even curb his passion for milk!

As the lactase disappears from a growing cat’s system, so does his ability to digest milk.

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book reviews

Title: Total Cat Mojo Author: Jackson Galaxy with Mikel Delgado Many of us share our lives with cats, but few truly know what these mysterious creatures need in order to thrive. In order to gain a deeper understanding of their feline friends, many people have turned to cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy. As host of Animal Planet’s hit show My Cat from Hell, and the author of multiple books on the feline species, Galaxy is an expert in the cat world. Now, he’s sharing even more insights and solutions with the release of his latest book, Total Cat Mojo.

According to Galaxy, “cat mojo” refers to the confidence our kitties display when they’re in touch with their natural instincts to hunt, catch, kill, eat, groom and sleep. In this comprehensive guide, readers will learn the importance of these innate drives so they can avoid common pitfalls that often arise when living with cats.

Drawing on years of personal and professional experience, Galaxy addresses topics such as establishing routines to give your cat stability, litterbox “rules”, and minimizing your kitty’s stress.

Want to achieve a deeper bond with your cat by helping her find her mojo? This book is the perfect guide.

Publisher: Penguin Random House LLC

Title: Really Important Stuff My Cat Has Taught Me Authors: Cynthia L. Copeland If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for a fellow cat lover, this book might be just the thing. Author Cynthia L. Copeland’s colorful little volume, Really Important Stuff My Cat Has Taught Me, is a delightful gallery of beautiful and evocative feline photos accompanied by wise sayings and quotes from authors, celebrities and other figures from past and present.

Each section focuses on some of the qualities we humans value most in life – qualities our feline friends can often teach us about – from confidence and curiosity, to kindness, independence, adventurousness and intelligence. Interspersed among the gorgeous photos are fun mini-stories about remarkable cats such as Holly, a tortoiseshell kitty who walked 200 miles back to her home in West Palm Beach, and Jack, a fearless feline who sent a black bear packing when it ventured into his yard.

This uplifting little book is sure to bring a smile to anyone who loves and understands cats!

Publisher: Workman Publishing

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