V24I3 (Summer 2022)

CONTENTS Summer 2022

10 Features 10

ways to help 5 arthritic dogs and cats

From acupuncture to weight control, follow this approach to easing arthritis in your dog or cat.

he right way to teach your 14 Tdog to swim

Teaching your dog to swim is easier than you might think. These four steps help ensure success.

50 70

our guide to Y camping with dogs

Camping is even more enjoyable when you bring your dog along!

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to maximize safety and keep things fun.

Food sensitivities in dogs

A food sensitivity can manifest in several ways but the solution is simple — switch to a better quality diet.

Columns 16 ANIMAL

ACUPRESSURE

Can Tui Na help your dog or cat live longer?

Otherwise known as acupressure-massage, Tui Na is an ancient Chinese modality that can contribute to health and longevity in dogs and cats.

20 SAFETY FIRST

10 pantry items that are poisonous to animals

34 SELF CARE

Dogs decrease stress for cancer patients

22 FELINE

37 NEED TO KNOW

BEHAVIOR

Why cats scratch — it’s only natural

Scratching is an instinctive feline behavior. Find how why your cat does it, and how you can fulfill her needs without sacrificing your furniture.

INSIDE & OUT

Animal Wellness

Following this 5-point holistic healthcare plan will help your senior dog or cat stay well and live longer.

Research shows that dogs can have a hugely positive impact on people battling cancer, both mentally and physically.

Making essential oil blends for your dog

4

A holistic healthcare plan for senior dogs and cats

Toxicology experts identify the top 10 animal poisons commonly found in the household pantry.

24 HEALING

14

30 AGING WELL

From pest repellents to breath fresheners, these fragrant and effective essential oil blends are created especially for dogs.

Intermittent fasting — can it help dogs stay healthier?

In many dogs (though not all), intermittent fasting can offer a variety of health benefits, from maintaining lean body mass to reducing the risk of age-related diseases.

40 GOLDEN YEARS

7 herbs that support your senior dog

Used under the guidance of your veterinarian, these seven herbs address a range of age-related issues in your canine companion.

37 74 WELL

62 FOCUS ON CBD 48 FUN FACTS

3 reasons dogs look like their people Do you look just like your dog? Here are a few reasons why this comical phenomenon occurs.

GROOMED

Nail care for cats

Can CBD help animals with allergies?

CBD on its own may not be that helpful for allergies in animals, but a related supplement is effective at getting the problem under control.

64 LEARNING

54 HEALTH

CURVE

ALERT

Is your dog panting excessively?

All dogs pant, especially when it’s hot out, but excessive panting could be a danger sign. Here’s what you need to know.

58 ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

8 questions to ask yourself when adopting a dog

It’s easy to fall in love with all those shelter dogs and puppies, but before you adopt, ask yourself these questions to ensure a happy experience for everyone involved.

68 FELINE HEALTH

Using homeopathic principles for a healthy animal

Keep your cat cool on hot summer days

When supporting your dog or cat’s health, there are more options available today than ever before. Using homeopathic principles can help you decide what’s best for him.

If your cat’s claws get too long, it can cause problems ranging from injury to infection.

Regular nail care keeps her comfortable and helps prevent scratches.

78 MOBILITY MATTERS

Arthritic dogs benefit from athome physical therapy

These simple at-home physical therapy exercises can help your arthritic dog move more easily and comfortably.

22

Extreme heat and humidity can make your cat uncomfortable and may even be lifethreatening. Here are 9 ways to keep him cool on sizzling summer days.

Departments 7 From the Editor

81 Marketplace

29 Business Profile – ZIWI

81 Classifieds

44 Product picks

82 Newsworthy

63 Summer Specialties

Social Media

Tips, contests and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

Nutrition videos, recipes and more!

Animal Wellness Magazine

Tips, pet photos, and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

Crafts, laughs, and more!

AnimalWellness

Animal Wellness

5

ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS VOLUME 24 ISSUE 2

EDITORIAL/CREATIVE DEPARTMENT: Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Content Editor: Kari Klassen Graphic Design Lead: Ethan Vorstenbosch Web Design & Development: Lace Imson Graphic Designer: Joy Sunga Graphic Designer: Hannah Cuenco Graphic Design Student: Luke Bakos

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Nadia Ali Suzi Beber, Honoris causa Christine Caplan, CVT Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Andrew Gronwald Jean Hofve, DVM Sara Jordan-Heintz Nicole Kallish Katie Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP Ingrid King Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT Ramona Marek Shawn Messonnier, DVM Erin Mullen Robert J. Silver DVM, MS Amy Snow Luke Strauss Elissa Weimer-Sentner Tavor White Tonya Wilhelm Nancy Zidonis

ADMINISTRATION & SALES:

President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Finance Administrator: Donna Bailey Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden Subscription Services: Donna Bailey Customer Satisfaction Representative: Mattias Wahl

SUBMISSIONS:

ON THE COVER

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.

Cover photo by: Iryna Dobrovynska It’s summertime, and the living is easy – especially if you have good joint health! This pooch is making the most of the great outdoors, and your best friend can too if you take steps to keep his joints flexible and pain-free, no matter what his age. Turn the page to learn more about relieving and preventing arthritis, making life more enjoyable for seniors, and much more!

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AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES:

National Sales Manager/Editorial Associate: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Business Development Representative: Kern O'Leary, (866) 764-1212 ext. 225 kern@redstonemediagroup.com Business Development Representative: Julian Arcuri, (866) 764-1212 ext 226 julian@redstonemediagroup.com Classified Advertising: Libby Sinden, (866) 764-1212 ext 114 classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com Customer Satisfaction Manager: Mattias Wahl, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 Mattias@redstonemediagroup.com

TO SUBSCRIBE:

Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for four 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.

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Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published four times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2022. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: April 2022. proudly supporting

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

FROM THE EDITOR

Serving up some

extra

TLC

I

’ve been fortunate to have so many of my animal companions live into their golden years. I’ve watched as they slow down over time, until they get to the point where we need to lift them into the car, in the case of the dogs, or on and off the bed, as with the cats. I adjusted their diets and added joint supplements targeted at seniors. But I didn’t know much about bodywork back then. Our Shih poo rescue, Muffie, is 14 years old now, and still pretty active, despite the fact she’s missing a toe on her front paw. But I now see a little stiffness creeping in from time to time, and this issue of Animal Wellness is tailor-made for her.

Freedom from pain and discomfort is vital to your dog or cat’s happiness and well-being. Because achy problems like arthritis are so common in our companion animals, especially as they get older, it’s important to factor joint health into your best friend’s health program, no matter what age he is. In this issue, we present a holistic approach to arthritis, and look at how physical therapy exercises you can do at home can help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and improve his mobility.

Whether they have arthritis or not, senior animals require plenty of extra TLC, so be sure to read up on how Tui Na, a

form of acupressure-massage, can contribute to longevity; and discover which herbs can help put a spring back in an aging canine’s step. We also offer a comprehensive holistic healthcare plan for senior dogs and cats, and a look at how you can build health in your animal friend by using homeopathic principles.

Gearing up for the dog days of summer? Learn why our canine companions pant — and when you should be concerned — and find out how to keep your cat cool during heat waves. If you’re planning some outdoor getaways with your pooch, you’ll want to read up on the best way to teach him to swim, and don’t forget to take along our handy guide on camping with dogs.

Stay safe and have a wonderful summer!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

Visit our facebook page at facebook.com/AnimalWellnessMagazine Animal Wellness

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CONTRIBUTORS Veterinarian Dr. Christina Chambreau is an internationally-known homeopathic vet who also does pet health coaching (HealThyAnimals@aol.com). As faculty at Holistic Actions Academy, she provides leading edge information and individual support on health possibilities for pets. Dr. Chambreau is the author of Healthy Animal's Journal, Fleas Be Gone: A holistic veterinarian’s guide to natural flea control, and dog and cat journal e-books. p. 58 Retired veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve earned her DVM at Colorado State University. She also studied veterinary homeopathy, homotoxicology, Reiki and other holistic modalities. She has researched pet food and feline nutrition for more than two decades, and is an expert on holistic pet health and the commercial pet food industry. Dr. Hofve is an official advisor to AAFCO, and co-authored the books Holistic Cat Care and Paleo Dog. p. 70 Veterinarian Dr. Katie Kangas graduated from the University of Wisconsin Veterinary College in 1993. She achieved her CVA certification at the Chi Institute in 2008, followed by additional training in Advanced Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Herbal Medicine and Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation.

Dr. Kangas owns Integrative Veterinary Care in San Diego, California. Her special interests include nutrition/food medicine, dental health and pain management. p. 37 Veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause graduated from Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007. She incorporates many holistic modalities into her practice, has a love for Traditional Chinese Medicine and Physical Medicine, and also offers laser therapy, myofascial release, physical therapy, nutrition, and more. Dr. Angie has a house call practice called Boulder Holistic Vet (BoulderHolisticVet.com). p. 10 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 (pawsandclawsanimalhospital.com) is in Plano, Texas. p. 30 Veterinarian Dr Robert Silver graduated from Colorado State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and established one of the first US integrative vet clinics in Boulder, CO in 1993. He is a nationally recognized expert in veterinary herbal medicine and veterinary CBD and cannabis therapeutics. He published three chapters in Cannabis Therapy in Veterinary Medicine, and wrote A Guide to Pet CBD and Cannabis. Dr Silver shares a blog site (NurseYourPet.com) and owns the Well-Pet Dispensary (wellpetdispensary.com). p. 62 Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the authors of ACU-DOG: A Guide to Canine Acupressure, ACU-CAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure, and ACU-HORSE: A Guide to Equine Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources, which offers books, manuals, online training courses, DVDs, apps, meridian charts, consulting, and more acupressure learning tools (animalacupressure.com, tallgrass@animalacupressure.com). p. 16 Dr. Suzi Beber has been creating special needs diets for animals for two decades.

She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She received a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund received the “Pets + Us” Community Outreach Champion Award. p. 24 Christine Caplan is a Certified Vet Tech, and a long-time PR veteran and content marketing expert who brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three hounds — two “doxies” and a beagle/basset hound mix — who constantly teach her about life and companionship (mylifewithdogspdx.com). p. 40

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Animal Wellness

Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs for two Humane Societies. Andrea and her dog were also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She has taught group and private classes, and is a strong proponent of positive training methods. p. 64

Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats with a BIG Attitude. Her blog, “The Conscious Cat”, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. p. 74

Ramona D. Marek, MS Ed, is an award-winning writer, and author of Cats for the GENIUS. She writes about pet care, health and behavior, and cats in the arts. Her feline muses are Tsarevich Ivan, a joie de vivre silver tabby Siberian, and Natasha Fatale, a full-time diva dressed as an “anything but plain” brown tabby. Read more about Ramona and her work at RamonaMarek.com. p. 22

Elissa Weimer-Sentner is the founder, co-owner, and head trainer of Paw & Order Dog Training. She has extensive experience and understanding of advanced canine training methodologies and coaching, and has developed programs that specialize in all levels of dog training including puppy training, basic obedience, intense behavior modification, and more. Elissa was awarded Dog Training Specialist of the Year in 2021. p. 14

Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who promotes positive ways to prevent and manage behavior issues. One of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers dog training classes; provides training and behavior services; and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com). p. 78

Nadia Ali is a freelance writer from London, who currently resides in the Caribbean. Her adopted shelter cat, Cici, who has now passed on, still serves as her inspiration to write about beloved companion animals. You can follow Nadia on Twitter at @NadiaAwriter. p. 68

Sara Jordan-Heintz is a newspaper and magazine journalist. Her articles have appeared in Equine Wellness, Antique Trader, Farm Collector and others.

She is a recipient of the Genevieve Mauck Stoufer Outstanding Young Iowa Journalists Award. Her work is regularly published through the USA Today Network. She is also the author of the classic cinema book Going Hollywood: Midwesterners in Movieland. p. 50

Erin Mullen is a freelance writer and entrepreneur living in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Saint Vincent College and enjoys spending her free time in the outdoors with her boxers, Emma and Elsa. p. 54

Luke Strauss is a content creator at Siege Media. His passion for digital marketing and creative writing has led him to cover topics within a variety of industries, from business and cybersecurity to lifestyle. When he’s not writing he enjoys making music, traveling, and spending time with his friends and family. p. 34

5

WAYS TO HELP ARTHRITIC DOGS AND CATS

by Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT

From acupuncture to weight control, follow this approach to easing arthritis in your dog or cat.

Arthritis is a common problem in dogs and cats, especially as they age. It can cause significant pain and decrease your animal’s enjoyment of life. Fortunately, there are many ways to help treat and manage arthritis, thereby improving your dog or cat’s health, quality of life, and longevity.

Here are five ways to help animals with arthritis.

•

1. WEIGHT CONTROL AND DIET

Consult with your vet. Meet with your veterinarian to help determine your dog or cat’s ideal weight and daily caloric needs. Many animal parents aren’t aware that their dogs and cats are overweight. Involving your veterinarian provides a professional opinion and he/she can also rule out any medical conditions that may be contributing to your animal’s body condition.

•

Don’t restrict calories to the point of muscle wasting. Your dog or cat needs to maintain muscle mass to stabilize and support his joints.

This is another great reason to work closely with your veterinarian.

The most effective and important way to help control the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis is to keep your dog or cat as lean as possible. Extra fatty tissue not only puts more stress on his joints, but it also causes more inflammation. This extra inflammation inevitably leads to more pain and damage to the joints. Here are a few tips to keeping your animal lean: •

eed cats a raw or high quality canned diet.

F While many kibble foods are improving, low-end products still have too many carbohydrates and can increase inflammation. In addition to arthritis, overweight kitties are more prone to other inflammatory diseases as well.

•

Add fiber-rich vegetables to a dog’s diet. Veggies like green beans and carrots are high in fiber and can help your dog feel fuller and more satisfied after each meal.

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Animal Wellness

2. ADEQUATE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

3. SUPPLEMENTS FOR JOINT SUPPORT

Movement keeps joints lubricated and the muscles that support them stronger. Keeping your dog or cat active can be simple, easy and fun:

Several supplements can help decrease the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis in dogs and cats:

•

Take your dog for shorter, more frequent walks.

It’s tempting to take one long walk at the end of the day, but for some dogs, this may cause them to become sore and less able to participate in walks the next day. If possible, try three short walks throughout the day. If you are walking your cat on a leash, she will often regulate her own pace and distance.

•

Play with your cat before mealtime.

Using a stick and string toy for a few minutes before feeding can increase your cat’s daily step count while also satisfying her natural prey drive.

It’s a win-win!

•

Promote movement around the house. Just as we benefit from taking more steps every day, dogs and cats can benefit from moving around the house more often. Be creative when setting up routines, especially if you have several levels to your home.

Encouraging your dog or cat to move up and down the stairs throughout the day is a great way to keep her active.

•

CBD: Hemp-derived CBD can make a substantial difference in quality of life for animals with arthritis.

Be sure to pick a product that has at least 20 milligrams of CBD per 1 milliliter of oil. It’s also important to purchase from a company that can provide a certificate of analysis. This proves that the contents of the oil have therapeutic amounts of CBD and no pesticide or chemical residues. I recommend starting with 1 milligram of CBD per kilogram of body weight twice daily. To calculate your animal’s weight in kilograms, simply divide the number of pounds by 2.2. CBD can be given with or without food.

EXTRA FATTY TISSUE NOT ONLY PUTS MORE STRESS ON HIS JOINTS, BUT IT ALSO CAUSES MORE INFLAMMATION.

Animal Wellness

11

•

Glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate: These help promote the healing of cartilage in joints while increasing the amount of healthy fluid to pad the joints.

They are even more effective if given before arthritis becomes severe. If you have a breed that is more prone to arthritis, or has sustained an injury early in life, I recommend starting these supplements before signs of arthritis are present.

•

Adequan: This injectable supplement, available by prescription only, acts similarly to an oral glucosamine supplement by promoting the health of joint cartilage and fluid. It is generally faster-acting and has longer-lasting results than its oral counterparts. While it can be a pricey treatment, it is life-changing for some dogs and cats. Your veterinarian can teach you how to do these injections at home to avoid regular veterinary visits.

•

Fish oil: Supplements and diets that are high in Omega fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, can decrease inflammation and significantly increase mobility in both dogs and cats. Consult your veterinarian for help finding a good Omega fatty acid product and to determine the right therapeutic dose for your animal.

THE ROLE OF NSAIDS While you may want to keep your dog or cat’s medical care as natural as possible, pharmaceutical options should not be overlooked in some instances. Used correctly, therapies like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can give animals of any age significant relief from pain and suffering. These drugs allow a dog or cat to enjoy activities that were previously painful, which can have a positive impact on his mental health.

While I recommend first starting with the therapies discussed in this article for mild to moderate symptoms of arthritis, I encourage you to be open to all possible treatment options. Even small, intermittent doses of NSAIDs can have a dramatic impact on an animal’s quality of life.

Note that these medications are not as safe for kitties with concurrent kidney disease. It is also important to remember that NSAIDs need to be prescribed by your veterinarian. Over-the-counter NSAIDs for humans are not safe alternatives for your cat or dog.

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Animal Wellness

4. MASSAGE AND CHIROPRACTIC Manual therapies can be very effective for pain control and help contribute to increased mobility and function in your arthritic animal. Massage can be done at home by family members several times per week, or by a trained veterinary professional. In many states, both veterinarians and chiropractors are trained to give chiropractic manipulation to animals. If you are using a human-trained chiropractor, be sure he or she has completed training specific to cats and dogs.

MANY DOGS AND CATS THAT RECEIVE REGULAR MASSAGE OR CHIROPRACTIC CARE NEED FEWER SUPPLEMENTS AND PHARMACEUTICALS. 5. ACUPUNCTURE This ancient modality can help improve symptoms of arthritis and many other common ailments that affect cats and dogs. Not only is acupuncture well tolerated, it is extremely safe and often effective. Cats can especially benefit from acupuncture, as they may be less willing to take supplements, tolerate massage, or cooperate with medication administration.

We are fortunate to have so many modalities to help us support and care for cats and dogs with arthritis. Remember that you are your animal’s best medical advocate. Assemble a team of veterinary professionals who are supportive and patient and know that your animal companion is lucky to be loved and cared for by you!

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THE Right Way TO TEACH YOUR DOG

by Elissa Weimer-Sentner

Teaching your dog to swim is easier than you might think. These four steps help ensure success.

to Swim

You’ve recently welcomed a new dog to the family. The weekend forecast calls for hot sunny weather, so you’re heading to the lake house and taking your new addition along with you. But what if you’re not sure your dog can swim?

What’s the best way to teach him?

While getting him to execute the butterfly stroke might be a bit out of reach, he’ll get the doggy paddle in no time if you go about it the right way. For rookie and veteran dog parents alike, teaching a dog how to swim can be accomplished in a few short steps.

1. START SLOW Keep in mind that some dogs hate water, while others would rather be fish because they love it so much. A lot of people think that because their dogs love bath time, it means they’ll also love to swim, but big bodies of water can be very intimidating, even for humans!

If your dog is a bit apprehensive about the water, or has never experienced it before, introduce her to it very slowly.

Never force a dog into the water — this can give her a negative and scary first impression.

So if she’s resisting, or showing signs of nervousness, let her be and try again later.

2. STAY SHALLOW Once your dog is comfortable with being around water, begin your training in a shallow area. If you’re at a lake, stick close to the shore.

Let him get used to being in the water. Encourage him to enter the water one paw at a time so as to not overstimulate him with the new sensation. Being in water can be an overwhelming experience for a dog, so letting him know you are there to protect him helps. Show him that he’s in safe hands.

Depending on the dog, he might cling to you in an attempt to get out of the water. This is normal; just keep reassuring and encouraging him in a calm voice.

Tip: If you’re in a pool, stay close to the exit and let your dog find it on his own.

Repeat this until you are 100% certain he knows how to get himself out.

Tip: Be patient and let your dog proceed at her own pace.

3. MAKE IT FUN

Encourage your dog to enter the water on her own. You can do this by enticing her with a toy or asking her to come to play with you near the water.

These first steps are vital to a successful experience.

As with any training experience, you want to make sure that teaching your dog to swim is a positive experience for her, so she’ll have a good feeling about it the next time she’s taken to a swimming scenario. Providing lots of praise and encouragement lets her know she’s doing something fun and good.

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Animal Wellness

Tip: Swimming can be a favorite activity for some dogs — for example, Labrador retrievers and Irish water spaniels take to water like ducks.

Playing with toys and paddling and swimming along with your dog is a great way to reassure her that swimming is a fun time.

Once she knows how to swim, she might enjoy participating in other aquatic leisure activities with you, such as paddle boarding, surfing, and kayaking.

4. BE SAFE As fun as it to go swimming with your dog, keep in mind that water can also be dangerous if you don’t keep safety top of mind (see sidebar at right). Depending on where you’re swimming, marine animals such as snapping turtles, water snakes, jellyfish and other creatures can pose a risk, so keep your eyes peeled.

When your dog is in or near deep water, he should be wearing a canine life vest or flotation device to protect against drowning. This is especially important if you take him boating. The life jacket should be properly fitted to your dog, so make sure you measure him carefully before making a purchase.

Tip: Dogs that aren’t built for swimming include Pugs, Bulldogs and other short-nosed breeds.

Some dogs won’t take to the water no matter what, but most will come to love swimming if they’re taught properly, with plenty of praise and patience. If your dog is one of the former, don’t force the issue, even if it’s disappointing to you. There are still plenty of land-based activities you can enjoy together!

It’s quite easy to teach a dog to swim if you keep it simple, remember to take it slow, make it a positive experience, and stay safe. If you follow these steps, your best friend will be a water baby in no time!

BE

Aware OF THE DANGERS

Before jumping into the deep end with your dog, remember that water can be dangerous as well as fun.

•

Dogs can get exhausted from swimming, and that can become be a serious situation if they can’t make it out of the water when they need to. You should always be watching your dog while he’s swimming; drowning can happen in seconds

•

Be aware of the water temperature; dogs can quickly succumb to hypothermia if it’s too cold.

•

Dogs can also suffer from water intoxication, which occurs when a dog swallows too much water while swimming. Water intoxication can cause a dog to vomit, become nauseous, or collapse from weakness and lack of coordination.

•

I t’s also important to ensure the body of water your dog is swimming in is clean and free of pathogens such as blue-green algae and Giardia, a water-borne parasite.

INTO G O D A RCE O F CAN R S I E H V T E N ER — TIVE AND T A W E TH EGA N N. A O I R S E S H E E R GIV T IMP S R I F Y SCAR Animal Wellness

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ANIMAL ACUPRESSURE

CAN

TUI-NA HELP YOUR DOG

LIVE LONGER? Otherwise known as acupressure-massage, Tui Na is an ancient Chinese modality that can contribute to health and longevity in dogs and cats.

by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our dogs and cats lived as long as we do? While that’s not achievable, unfortunately, we can nevertheless take measures to help ensure our companion animals stay healthy so they can live as long as possible.

Among the many modalities and therapies that can boost wellness and contribute to longevity is Tui Na, the original Chinese modality of acupressure-massage.

THE AGING PROCESS Like humans, dogs and cats are individuals with different constitutions in different environments. These differences determine how long they will live. On average, dogs live ten to 14 years, while cats live around 12 to 18 years, with a few lasting even into their 20s.

Cats tend to be trickier than dogs when it comes to detecting how they are aging because felines are hard-wired to hide pain, weakness, and discomfort. Ancestral cats would become prey when they showed evidence of sickness or weakness. So it’s up to us to be alert to signs of aging when our cats are between seven and ten years old (see sidebar on page 15).

Dogs tend to show more obvious signs as they age. While some think they are puppies well into middle age, the average

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Animal Wellness

dog by the age of six is not running, jumping and playing as vigorously as in previous years.

Though aging is inevitable and preferable to an early demise, there are ways of supporting your cat or dog’s health as he ages. By combining current conventional veterinary medicine with alternative healthcare modalities, such as Tui Na, you can support hie enjoyment of life well into his golden years.

WHAT IS TUI-NA? For thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been a tremendous resource for health and longevity. It offers ancient wisdom for sustaining life, and is dedicated to the prevention of ill health in any form. Tui Na (pronounced “tway nah”) is the original Chinese acupressure-massage and one of the pillars of TCM. The words translate as “push grasp.”

Tui Na is used in China for promoting longevity, which is referred to as Chang Shou in Chinese. When working with older animals, our intent is to soothe their aches and pains while supporting their vitality. The beauty of Tui Na is that you can easily help your dog or cat feel his or her best by following the directions and charts luded with this article.

COMMON SIGNS OF AGING IN DOGS AND CATS

• Less activity and an increase in sleep • Loss of ability to self-groom • Weight gain or loss • Decreased hearing or vision

• Increase in aggression or anxiety • Change in vocalization • Increase in water consumption and urination

ACUPOINTS FOR LONGEVITY

Starting on the side of the neck, using either the flat of your hand on a large or medium-sized dog, or your forefinger and middle finger on a small dog or cat, slowly and gently trace down the Bladder Meridian, just off the spine (as shown on the chart). Repeat this tracing three to six times on both sides of the animal. This process is calming and soothing, and has significant health benefits for older animals.

KIDNEY 27 (KI 27) This acupressure point is commonly used to enhance the flow of vital energy.

It is located at the front of the chest on each side of the manubrium (broad upper part of the sternum) in front of the ribs. You should be able to feel soft deep holes on each side.

Using the soft tips of your thumb and forefinger, hold these points at the same time for a slow count of 20.

BLADDER MERIDIAN

Ki 27

Ki 27

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Caring for your senior Dogs and cats are living longer than at any other time in history, thanks to our attention to their needs, especially as they grow older.

• We know that nutrition plays an important part in keeping our dogs and cats healthy. Even in old age, cats are protein obligates. Dogs tend to be “opportunivores,” which means their diet is varied, but they still need nutritional building blocks for good health. A canine or feline nutritionist can help you make sure your animal is eating appropriately.

• Mental stimulation and physical exercise are two keys to maintaining your animal’s well-being. Walking, playing, and socializing helps keep your dog fit in mind and spirit. A huge variety of cat toys and climbing towers can keep your feline friend challenged and active.

• Veterinary care is essential for monitoring and supporting your senior animal’s overall health and longevity. Veterinary medicine can help identify and manage illnesses and issues associated with old age, such as kidney disease, arthritis, and digestive problems.

For more suggestions on how to care for your senior dog or cat, turn to page 30.

BAI HUI POINT The Bai Hui point is known as the “feel good point” for our four-legged companions. It’s located on the dorsal midline between the hips where there are no spinous processes. It feels like a soft spot in the middle of the sacrum. Lightly scratch or rub that point to bring up energy. This point can become addictive for your special senior!

Bai Hui

The Bai Hui point is known as the “feel good point” for our four-legged companions.

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Offering this brief Tui Na session along with good nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and holistic or integrative veterinary care (see sidebar above) will give you more time to enjoy the company of your dog or cat. While growing older is a natural part of life, making the best of his golden years is a gift of time for you both.

Bai Hui

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SAFETY FIRST

PANTRY ITEMS THAT ARE POISONOUS TO DOGS AND CATS D gs

Animal toxicology experts identify the top 10 animal poisons commonly found in the household pantry.

Household pantries are full of food staples, cooking supplies, snacks and other edibles. But they can also be full of potential dog and cat poisons. Recently, the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline reviewed their case data and developed a list of the top ten potential poisons commonly found in your pantry.

“Most people don’t realize that common household foods for human consumption can be toxic to pets, especially if they consume them in large quantities” says Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. “Many pets join the family in the kitchen, and often have access to the pantry. Hidden inside that pantry are a number of items that are either dangerous on their own or contain ingredients that can be toxic to pets.”

1

ALCOHOL

A nimals are at a high risk for developing alcohol poisoning, even after ingesting small amounts. Low blood sugar, lethargy and seizures can occur.

2

CHOCOLATE

T he darker the chocolate, the more methylxanthines it contains, increasing the risk of poisoning. Keep chocolate away from dogs and cats to avoid vomiting, diarrhea, and agitation. Large amounts can result in heart rhythm changes and even seizures.

3

4

COFFEE BEANS/ GROUNDS affeine is a stimulant for everyone — too much C can cause tremors and a racing heart. Keep your dog or cat off the ceiling and out of the hospital.

GARLIC AND ONIONS

G arlic and onions can cause vomiting and diarrhea, as well as anemia and other red blood cell changes due to their sulfur-containing oxidants.

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5 6 7 8

RAISINS

Ingesting only a few raisins can result in kidney injury for your furry friend. Early signs include vomiting and lethargy.

SALT

Dogs and cats should never be given salt. Salt is a poison for them and can cause vomiting, tremors and seizures.

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MACADAMIA NUTS

I ngesting these nuts can cause difficulty walking in dogs.

Additional risks include joint pain and pancreatitis.

Cats

TEA mall dogs and cats may ingest too much caffeine S from a bag of tea — and all animals might have trouble passing a teabag with a string.

XYLITOL/BIRCH SUGAR

Found in sugar-free gum, mints, protein bars, specialty peanut butters and more, xylitol/birch sugar is not good for animals. Beware of seizures from low blood sugar as well as possible liver failure.

YEAST

When mixed into dough, yeast organisms make alcohol and lots of gas through fermentation. If an animal eats raw dough, it can expand in the stomach, blocking its ability to pass through. Additionally, the alcohol produced by the yeast may result in alcohol poisoning.

To keep your dog or cat safe, always store these items in a safe place that’s out of his reach. petpoisonhelpline.com

Does your dog have Separation Anxiety?

Do you avoid going out because you worry about your dog being home alone? If he barks, whines or howls when you leave, he may be suffering from separation anxiety.

Research shows that about 17% of dogs in the U.S. have issues with separation anxiety when their humans leave them alone.

Some dogs are genetically predisposed to separation anxiety, while the rest acquire it for reasons not always easy to understand.

Your dog may communicate his distress in several ways, including excessive vocalization, destroying property or belongings, urinating or defecating on the floor, excessive salivation, or refusing to eat.

As always, it is wise to take your dog to a veterinarian to get him checked out for anything physical that might be wrong.

Barring any health problems, your vet may determine your dog has separation anxiety.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP? Successful treatments are available to help your dog — and you — find some peace of mind. Sometimes, natural treatments can’t get to the heart of your dog’s anxiety issues and a medication combined with a behavioral modification training program might be needed. Talk to your vet about the right medication and program for your dog.

An FDA approved drug with a lot of success around separation anxiety is Reconcile® (fluoxetine hydrochloride), used in conjunction with the BOND™ training program.

Reconcile® is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI. Serotonin is a brain chemical responsible for many functions, including anxiety control. Low serotonin levels may result in an increased level of anxiety that Reconcile® can help control by making your dog more receptive to a behavior modification training program like BOND™.

The BOND™ training program involves four steps that help you manage your dog’s stress: •B e positive: focus on positive behavior and ignore undesirable behavior • Only reward calm behavior • No more emotion when you come and go •D evelop your dog’s independence: provide a safe place for him when you’re gone.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS A PRN Pharmacal study of 229 dogs receiving behavior modification training demonstrated that dogs treated with Reconcile® showed significant improvement compared with those receiving a placebo.

After one week, results showed that behavior modification alone had an efficacy of 18%, while Reconcile® and behavior modification combined showed a 42% effectiveness rate. After eight weeks, behavior modification yielded an efficacy of 51%, while Reconcile® and behavior modification demonstrated an effectiveness rate of 73%.

Reconcile® in conjunction with a behavior modification plan may well be exactly what your dog needs to feel safe and secure. The dose is a once-a-day, flavored, chewable tablet that dogs love and is easy to administer. It’s affordably priced and proven safe and effective under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Not only does Reconcile® relieve your dog’s stress, it also reduces yours, and helps strengthen the human-animal bond.

For more information, see the product label or go to Reconcile.com and click on “Prescribing Information”.

Important safety information The most common adverse events from Reconcile®, in decreasing order of reported frequency, are decreased appetite, depression/lethargy, shaking/shivering/tremor, vomiting, restlessness and anxiety, seizures, aggression, diarrhea, mydriasis, vocalization, weight loss, panting, confusion, incoordination, and hypersalivation. Reconcile® chewable tablets are contraindicated for dogs with a history of seizures or when used with MAOIs. Reconcile® chewable tablets are indicated for the treatment of canine separation anxiety in conjunction with a behavior modification plan. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

______________________________________________________ 1 Bamberger M, Houpt KA. Signalment factors, comorbidity, and trends in behavior diagnoses in dogs: 1,644 cases (1991-2001). JAVMA. 2006;229(10):1593.

Tiira K, Sulkama S, Lohi H. Prevalence, comorbidity, and behavioral variation in canine anxiety. JVet Behav. 2016;16:38.

2

Simpson BS, Landsberg GM, Reisner IR, et al. Effects of Reconcile (fluoxetine) chewable tablet plus behavior management for canine separation anxiety.VetTher. 2007:8(1):18-31.

3

4 Elanco Animal Health. Field studyT8E420001. Efficacy Evaluation of Fluoxetine (fluoxetine hydrochloride) for the Control of Separation Anxiety in Dogs. Freedom of Information Summary NADA 141-272; Reconcile Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Chewable Tablets: Dogs. 2007: 3.

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FELINE BEHAVIOR

WHY H C T A R C S S C AT ­­­­­­­­

­­ ­­­­­­­­­­—

i t 's only natural

ek

By Ramona Mar

A

nyone who has cats knows they love to scratch — often on inappropriate places such as the furniture. Contrary to what you may think, your cat doesn’t scratch just to be naughty. She’s doing it because she needs to. Scratching is a natural instinctive feline behavior, which means it should be accommodated. Find how why cats need to scratch, and how you can fulfill her needs without sacrificing your furniture.

CATS SCRATCH FOR FOUR MAIN REASONS “Asking a cat not to scratch is like asking a dog to never bark or a bird not to fly," says Ingrid Johnson, a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Here are the four main reasons cats need to scratch:

1. Nail health

— Cats scratch to remove the outer dead sheaths on their nails, and uncover sharp new claws. “A cat's nail grows in layers, like an onion, and it’s imperative that they remove the outer sheath to maintain nail health and prevent the nail from becoming embedded into the paw pad," explains Ingrid.

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2. Territorial

SCRATCH THIS, NOT THAT

communication and scent-marking — Sweat

and scent glands located between the pads of the cat’s feet produce pheromones. Scratching and discarded nail sheaths leave a visual mark, while the deposited pheromones leave a scent message for other cats. "Cats prefer to leave this scent in high-traffic, sociallysignificant areas,” says Ingrid.

3. Stretching/exercising — Cats

scratch in order to stretch, condition and flex their muscles from the front legs to the spine. Many cats scratch after waking or as part of their stretch sequence.

4. Emotional well-being — Cats

scratch because it's a “feel good behavior,” says Ingrid. They also scratch when aroused or excited, or during play. Scratching may increase when your cat feels stressed or anxious or when her environment feels threatened.

Scratching is a hard-wired feline behavior that cannot be “unlearned.”

But cats can learn to scratch appropriate surfaces. First, make the targeted area unappealing, then provide a variety of more alluring scratching choices.

During the training period, it’s important to prevent access to the inappropriate scratching surfaces while teaching your cat what to scratch instead.

•

“I recommend ‘booby trapping’ the items with something unpleasant, like double-sided sticky tape,” says Ingrid.

•

You can also cover furniture with a plastic cloth, whole or cut to fit the area your cat favors, which is often the arm of a sofa or chair.

•

Another suggestion is to spray the area with a synthetic pheromone that essentially sends a message to your cat saying: “You've already marked this spot.”

•

Regular nail trims help prevent damage, as does the use of nail caps, without stopping normal scratching behavior.

WHAT

NOT TO DO

Declawing your cat is never the solution.

“Declawing is abhorrent cruelty,” Ingrid says. “It is the most painful procedure in veterinary medicine.”

Yelling or throwing things at your cat, or squirting her with water, won’t stop the scratching behavior — but it will increase fear and anxiety in your cat and fracture the bond between you. “I strongly encourage my clients to learn clicker training, and train their cats to use the scratching post, which takes all of ten minutes when you have the appropriate post,” says Ingrid. Then, embrace the "reward what you like and ignore what you don't" mantra to ensure you aren't rewarding attention-seeking behavior by scolding the furniture scratching.

SET YOUR CAT UP FOR SCRATCHING SUCCESS Scratching is a hard-wired feline behavior that cannot be “unlearned.” But cats can learn to scratch appropriate surfaces.

First, make the targeted area unappealing, then provide a variety of more alluring scratching choices. :

Size: “Scratching posts should be at least 30” tall and heavy enough that they don’t wobble or topple over when in use," says Ingrid.

Shape: Most cats like to scratch vertically. However, some cats, especially seniors, prefer to scratch horizontally due to physical challenges such as arthritis. Other cats enjoy angled scratchers.

Giving your cat a choice is key.

MOST CATS STRETCH AND SCRATCH AFTER WAKING UP, SO PUT A SCRATCHER NEAR YOUR KITTY’S SLEEPING AREA.

Texture: “Most cats prefer to scratch abrasive textures, which do the best job of removing the outer nail sheath,” says Ingrid.

Preferred substrates include sisal rope, corrugated cardboard, carpet or wood. Let your cat choose.

Location: Most cats stretch and scratch after waking up, so put a scratcher near your kitty’s sleeping area. Also locate scratching posts in high-traffic areas that you and your cat pass through each day. “Look at your home as a series of highways,” advises Ingrid.

“Where are the intersections? That's where your scratching posts should go! If your cat is already scratching someplace you wish she wouldn't, you have your answer. She is telling you that this area is socially significant and that she needs to leave her scent there. Put a post there.”

Scratching is an instinctual behavior for our feline companions.

It’s our responsibility as cat parents to provide them with the appropriate outlet for this natural behavior.

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Making Essential Oil Blends for your Dog

by Dr. Suzi Beber, Honoris Causa

From pest repellents to breath fresheners, these fragrant and effective essential oil blends are created especially for dogs.

A

nyone who has worked with essential oils, as I have, knows how amazing they are. When high quality products are used properly, essential oils offer profound healing effects to both humans and dogs. This article presents some canine-designed essential oil blends you can make at home for everything from nausea and bad breath to repelling ticks and other pests.

All this laid the groundwork for the use of essential oils and aromatherapy with animals: •

In the 18th century, the Ecole de Cavalerie listed veterinary remedies based on plant extracts.

•

French chemist René Maurice Gattefossé is recognized as the Father of Aromatherapy, and in fact coined the term “aromatherapy”. His book, Aromatherapy, highlighted over 30 years of his work, including with animals, as he discovered that essential oils could have the same positive impact on them as on people.

•

In 1929, Dr. Louis Sevelinge, known for his study of “phyto-aromatherapy,” demonstrated the antibacterial properties of certain essential oils and shared this knowledge while also working with animals.

A LONG HISTORY •

The distillation and use of essential oils goes back thousands of years. Between 2697 and 2597 B.C.E., the Chinese used aromatic plants for harmony and balance; the ancient Egyptians used infused oils and herbal preparations; traditional Ayurvedic medicine incorporated essential oils into healing; and Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, practiced fumigations for aromatic and medicinal purposes.

•

Doscorides, an ancient Greek physician, wrote the De Material Medica which described the properties of at least 500 plants.

•

In the 11th century, the Persians invented a coiled cooling pipe for distilling plant oils, and in the 12th century, lavender was distilled for its medicinal properties.

•

By the 15th century, more plants were being distilled for their essential oils, including frankincense, juniper, rose, sage, and rosemary.

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Henri Viaud, considered the Father of French Distillation, had a vision to produce essential oils specifically for use in aromatherapy, and even more specifically, for “healing.” He was the first to use and publish the terms “genuine” and “authentic” in connection with the use of essential oils, while Dr. Jean Valnet coined the term “aromatic medicine.”

AROMATHERAPY FOR ANIMALS Today, aromatherapy for animals is used for many things, from easing stress and deterring fleas and ticks to enhancing skin and coat health, treating bites and stings, and much more. Essential oils are a perfect addition to your “toolbox” and first aid kit.

CHECK YOUR CARRIER OILS When using essential oils for your dog, you’ll need to dilute them in a carrier oil. There are lots of options to choose from.

Always try to purchase oils that are cold pressed, organic, and contain no additives or preservatives.

Argan oil: Argan trees are native to Morocco and are referred to as the “Trees of Life.” The oil is rich in vitamins A and E. It is great to use with essential oils to support your dog’s skin and coat.

Coconut oil: Choose unrefined coconut oil for

your dog. It comes from fresh coconut meat and is not processed with any chemicals. It is a great source of fatty acids and polyphenols and is a great to use as a carrier oil to facilitate wound healing. Refined coconut oil comes from dried coconut meat that is bleached and deodorized, while fractionated coconut oil has had some of its fats removed. Choose unrefined coconut oil for your dogs.

Olive oil: Unfiltered olive oil makes the perfect

carrier oil. It contains oleic, linoleic, palmitic, stearic, and linolenic acids, polyphenols, carotenoids, squalene, and vitamin E. It supports the immune system and can be used for joint inflammation and to help wound healing.

Rosehip oil: Known as the “oil of youth,” rosehip oil is a great carrier oil to help with the healing process from wounds, cracked pads, and inflammation.

Be aware that there are a few refined rosehip carrier oils out there, so look for labels that say Rosa canina. Rosehip oil contains linoleic, linolenic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, and combined with essential oil of lavender, can help to relieve stress.

Sweet almond oil: This oil is

produced from a type of almond called Prunus amygdalus var. dulis, known for its beautiful white flowers. It contains linoleic, oleic, steric, and palmitic acids.

Sweet almond oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is good for joint inflammation.

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RECIPES Here are a few simple essential oil blends you can use with your dogs. Remember to check with your vet before using any new therapies, and always choose therapeutic grade pure essential oils (see sidebar on page 28).

Simple Massage or Spritz Blend Combine 15 drops of therapeutic grade essential oil (e.g. lavender or German chamomile) with 2 tablespoons of your choice of carrier oil. Use for massage or put in a small spray bottle, fill up with distilled or filtered water, and spritz away.

•

•

Lavender, the most popular essential oil of all, has many healing properties. As an antibacterial, it’s perfect for many skin ailments, including as a “spot on” for bites and stings. Its calming effect is important too.

German chamomile has great skin soothing properties and is also recognized as an anti-inflammatory. Look for “alpha-bisabolol” German chamomile.

Easy Peasy Tick Deterrent Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil has long been recognized as a tick deterrent. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps calm skin irritations.

Here are two ways to use it: 1.

Simply take a few drops of the oil (a little goes a long way!) and massage into those places on your dog that ticks tend to visit – e.g. behind the ears, around the tail, behind the front legs and on the abdomen.

2.

Combine 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil (which contains sulphur, adding more repellant properties) and 10 to 25 drops of rose geranium essential oil in a glass jar.

Insect Repellent Wipes Buy a package of unscented micellar water wipes. Remove the wipes from their original packaging and place in a Ziploc bag.

Add 15 drops each of citronella, rose geranium and lavender essential oils. Before you go for a walk, use a wipe on your dog and on your own skin. Avoid using around the eyes.

Bugs Beware Collar Care Ingredients 15 drops lavender essential oil 15 drops atlas cedarwood essential oil* 15 drops rose geranium essential oil Instructions Mix the essential oils in a glass or ceramic bowl. Then take a fabric dog collar and let it soak in the oils. Dry and use for walks in the woods with your dog. This is also a good combo for your own bandana.

If you would like a spritz instead, simply combine the essential oils with ⅓ cup of distilled or filtered water and ¼ cup of “alcohol free” witch hazel, in a spray bottle. Shake well before use. * Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) has so many uses, such as repelling insects, preventing mildew, inhibiting bacteria, soothing inflammation, and helping eliminate odors. It is even used to help reduce hair loss and flaking.

Try adding the oils to a fabric dog collar or add the blend to a small spray bottle, top with distilled or filtered water, and spritz on your dog’s coat before going for a walk.

Note: Palmerosa is a sister essential oil to rose geranium and is also known to repel ticks. It is cheaper and sometimes easier to find than rose geranium.

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More recipes on p. 28

MORE RECIPES Breath Burst

“A Little Dab Will Do You” Healing Oil

For this recipe, choose essential oils labelled for culinary use.

1. Place two handfuls of fresh or one handful of dried German chamomile, lavender and/or calendula flowers (used topically for its antiinflammatory and antimicrobial properties) in a large glass Mason jar.

Ingredients 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin 10 drops grapefruit seed extract (do not confuse with grape seed) 6 drops cardamon essential oil 4 drops coriander essential oil 6 drops peppermint essential oil 8 ounces distilled or filtered water Instructions Combine ingredients and pour into a dark glass or opaque spray bottle. You can use this blend too! Three quick spritzes a couple of times a day, and say hello to better breath.

Minty Mouth For this recipe, choose essential oils labelled for culinary use.

Ingredients 10 drops grapefruit seed extract 6 drops peppermint essential oil ¼ teaspoon Saigon cinnamon powder

2. Cover with first pressed olive oil, and let the jar stand in a warm place for 14 days, stirring occasionally.

3. Place contents of the Mason jar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, but as soon as the first bubbles appear, turn the heat down to a low simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Strain the mixture — cheesecloth is great for this step. Try to squeeze the last bit of oil out of the mixture.

5. Add two more handfuls of fresh or one handful of dried flowers to the leftover oil. After another 14 days have passed, bring the mixture to a boil, simmer as before, strain, and that’s it.

6. T ransfer your oil to a dark glass bottle with a dropper.

If you like, you can also put 15 drops of your oil into a little spray bottle, and fill with distilled or filtered water.

Say “No” to Nausea

Instructions Combine ingredients in a dark glass or opaque spray bottle. Shake well before use. Spritz in your dog’s mouth up to four times daily — try three to five pumps. Don’t be surprised if your dog smacks his lips after a “spritz”! I like to store this blend in the refrigerator.

Dilute five drops each of peppermint and ginger essential oil in first pressed olive oil. Using a small dropper, place three drops on the tongue or add to a biscuit. If you use biscuits, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon too.

A word of caution

8 ounces distilled or filtered water

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I

t is vital that you use only high quality essential oils with your dog. You’ll pay more, but cheap products are usually impure and often contain additives that can be harmful to animals. Choose certified organic essential oils. Look for NOP/USDA certification, which means the oils are 100% pure, natural, and unadulterated, and contain no synthetics. A QAI (Quality Assurance International) certificate means that strict standards for organic integrity have been adhered to.

Always make sure to read labels on essential oil bottles. Check to see where the oil was distilled, along with the name of the plant and what part of the plant the oil comes from. Keep your essential oils away from heat and light.

BUSINESS PROFILE

ZIWI COMBINES TOP QUALITY PET NUTRITION WITH CONVENIENCE Giving your dog or cat a healthy diet doesn’t have to be complicated, thanks to a company that blends high quality nutrition with the convenience of ready-to-serve food.

A healthy diet means a healthy dog or cat, and that’s what most of us want for our animal companions. But some people hesitate to step up their game when feeding their dogs and cats because they worry it’ll be too difficult or complicated. Not so, especially when it comes to companies like ZIWI, which makes top quality pet foods that are also simple and convenient.

NEW WAY TO CAPTURE RAW FOOD BENEFITS ZIWI’s story began 20 years ago in New Zealand’s Mount Maunganui, when company founder Peter Mitchell, a passionate free-range deer farmer, was supplying top quality meat to pet food companies around the world. “Peter was disappointed to discover that his pure and natural raw ingredients were being blended with inexpensive carbohydrates like grain and potatoes to form a less-nutritious, highly-processed kibble,” says Jessica Krueger, ZIWI’s Marketing Manager. “As a devoted pet guardian himself, he knew he could do better.”

That sparked an idea. What if he could combine the nutrition of a raw diet with the convenience of ready-serve dry food?

So began Peter’s two-year journey of trial and error in a small test kitchen, developing a completely new way to capture the health benefits of a raw diet, naturally — a ready-to-serve food with no fillers, binders, or artificial additives. “Driven by his love for his own two dogs, Peter never compromised and eventually created ZIWI,” says Jessica.

LOVE AND RESPECT FOR ALL ANIMALS “We’re all animal lovers here,” she adds. “And we believe that love and respect should extend to all animals, including those we farm and fish. We live by the Five Freedom Principles of animal welfare, and we only partner with farmers and fishermen who follow these strict, world-leading standards.”

Within this framework, ZIWI provides top-notch nutrition, with each recipe matching the biological needs of cats or dogs, filled with ethical and sustainable raw meats from New Zealand. “We are Kaitiaki, guardians of the land, sea and its creatures — not just for today but for future generations,” Jessica explains.

COMPLETE AND BALANCED All the company’s air-dried pet food recipes are complete and balanced for all breeds and life stages. “We are well known for our simple, whole-prey recipes, which make the ZIWI Peak Original line a great choice for cats and dogs. Each recipe includes industry-leading amounts of meat, organs, bones, and seafood to reflect the whole-prey carnivore diet. Our added green mussel contains glucosamine and chondroitin for optimum joint mobility, while green tripe supports healthy digestion and increases palatability for even the pickiest eaters."

With their dedication to quality and convenience, as well as animal welfare and sustainability, ZIWI offers a winning combination to dog and cat parents worldwide!

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AGING WELL

A Holistic Healthcare Plan for Senior Dogs and Cats

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Following this 5-point holistic healthcare plan will help your senior dog or cat stay well and live longer.

As a holistic veterinarian, I like to divide my patients into three populations based on age. The first stage is puppyhood and kittenhood (until animals are 12 months old), then adulthood (five to ten years depending on breed). Finally comes the senior or geriatric stage, which lasts from around eight to ten years until death (usually 15 to 20 years, depending on breed and species). Dividing the population in this fashion allows me to fine-tune general healthcare recommendations based on a dog or cat’s age, as well as address the needs of each specific patient based on examination and laboratory testing. In this article, I’ll describe my typical holistic healthcare plain for senior dogs and cats, remembering that this is just a guideline that will change based on each animal’s specific and individual needs.

D gs Cats

5-POINT HEALTH PLAN FOR AGING ANIMALS

1 Diet A good, healthy, holistic diet is very important for dogs and cats of all ages. Senior animals can usually continue eating the healthy diets they’ve enjoyed their entire lives, whether it be a high quality processed food, homemade cooked diet, or raw diet.

What’s most important is that the food is natural, the dog or cat enjoys eating it, and it’s affordable for the animal parent

2 Supplements It’s good for both people and their animals to take supplements that help them continue with their healthy lifestyles, as well as to help mitigate and treat diseases as they arise. Following are some of my favorite supplements for senior patients. Note that this is a basic list and that other supplements may be prescribed based on lifestyle, presence of disease, and any abnormal laboratory tests.

• Basic vitamin/mineral/immune supplement — Every animal can benefit from a supplement that supplies a spectrum vitamins, minerals and immune support.

•E nzymes and probiotics — Enzymes assist in digesting and absorbing food. An enzyme supplement ensures your dog or

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cat gets full benefit from his diet, and that little food is wasted when it passes through his GI tract. Probiotics ensure a healthy gut microbiome, which supports a healthy immune system.

•O mega-3 fatty acids — Omega-3s reduce inflammation in the body and actually change the structure of cell membranes to favor a reduced inflammatory state. Fish oil and krill oil can be used as an Omega-3 supplement. Flax seed and oil have their own health benefits but don’t work as well as fish or krill oil.

Flax oil requires conversion into active Omega-3 fatty acids, a process that is not likely to occur in dogs and cats.

Hint: Fish oil is also helpful in the treatment of various inflammatory disorders including allergies, cancer, and arthritis.

•C holine supplement — ­ There are several excellent choline products for aging animals. Research I did many years ago, plus many years of clinical experience, have shown that supp-lementing older dogs and cats with choline not only treats aging of the central nervous system (cognitive disorder) but can reduce it before the pet develops the condition. Choline is also great for animals with liver and pancreas issues (diabetes) as well as seizures.

Common Problems in Older Animals As dogs and cats age, certain problems become more common. Some of these issues include tumors, both cancerous and benign, kidney, heart, and/or dental diseases, hormonal conditions (thyroid and adrenal) and arthritis.

As a side note, these health problems are much less common in a holistic practice than in the typical conventional S upplementing older dogs and cats with choline treats aging of the central nervous system.

•C BD — This is a great geriatric supplement and also helpful for cancer and seizures. The main problem is that there are so many products on the market, most of which are expensive and inferior in quality. Stick with a product your veterinarian prescribes or recommends.

3 Testing As dogs and cats age, the incidence of certain chronic condi-tions increases. There are only three ways to diagnose problems: you report the issue to your veterinarian; he/she diagnoses the problem on a physical examination (such as a heart murmur which indicates heart disease); and/or the veterinarian orders laboratory testing.

practice due to a reduction in vaccine, chemical and medication use, along with a focus on proper diet and supplements.

Ideally, the best way to approach medical problems is through prevention when possible, and through early diagnosis and treatment if prevention is not attained.

Various tests are needed to properly diagnose a disease. These tests can include radiographs, ultrasonography, echocardiography, urinalysis, blood testing, and cytology or histopathology of tumors. Additionally, these tests are often prescribed for “normal” animals to determine the presence of asymptomatic problems. In most practices, this testing of “normal” dogs and cats usually finds one or more serious problems that must be addressed before they progress to the point of no return, when treatment is unlikely to result in a cure.

Hint: An older dog or cat needs regular veterinary exams to help maintain his health. Schedule a checkup every six months once he becomes a senior.

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31

Never Too Old for Care I want to stress two of my favorite sayings when it comes to our older dog and cat population.

1

Old age is not a disease.

Senior dogs and cats are typically more likely to develop certain problems, but being old per se is not an illness and should not be treated as such.

2

dogs and cats, regardless of age, All deserve the best care vets can offer and clients can afford.

There is no excuse for any doctor to refuse treatment, anesthesia or surgery simply due to an animal’s age. As I like to say, no dog or cat is “too old” for proper care. It is true that you may decide, due to your animal’s age, finances, or reduced expectations for outcome, to

forgo a certain treatment. However, that choice is yours alone. While the veterinarian can offer an opinion or share what they would do if the situation involved their own animal, they still have an obligation to prescribe the best testing and treatment. If you choose a different treatment than the “gold standard,” the vet should do everything possible to keep your dog or cat comfortable and free of pain, and give him the best possible chance for recovery and a happy life, regardless of how much time remains in that life.

4 Treatments Detected diseases require treatment. In my practice, this rarely involves conventional medications, as I instead rely on more natural therapies. In most patients, conventional medications are used as needed, at low doses and for limited periods, to reduce or eliminate side effects and further injury to the animal, as well as costs to the caregiver. In particular, many older dogs and cats have periodontal disease, and tumors that must be addressed.

Hint: No animal is too old for sedation or anesthesia, and seniors are at no greater risk for anesthesia-related problems than younger ones, assuming equal health.

If your veterinarian is wary of using anesthesia for your older dog or cat, find another doctor who is comfortable with senior animal anesthesia or high-risk anesthesia for patients with various medical problems.

5 Pet insurance Because older dogs and cats typically have more chronic problems than younger animals, the cost of caring for them, even with screening and prevention, can increase. Consider ways of saving money on veterinary care at all stages of your animal’s life, but especially as he ages. Pet insurance and monthly payment plans can reduce the cost of caring for older dogs or cats. If you’re considering pet insurance, be aware that not all providers cover holistic care, so do your homework before choosing a company.

Following these five steps can help your older dog or cat stay healthy and live a longer life. Be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine the best preventive healthcare program for your companion’s specific needs.

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Why your cat is peeing

OUTSIDE THE LITTERBOX If your cat isn’t using his litter box, it’s important to know what to do about it — and how to get rid of the pee odor!

Your cat has always been very good about using his litterbox, so why is he suddenly peeing on the rug or the side of your favorite sofa? There are many possible reasons for this and getting to the bottom of the problem is as important as cleaning up the odor.

Has your cat gained weight? If so, he may have outgrown the litterbox and needs more space. If you have a covered litterbox, try removing the lid.

POTENTIAL MEDICAL ISSUES

Cats can be quite particular, and the litter itself can be an issue if he doesn’t like the smell or texture, or if the litterbox is too old and retains an odor.

Around 75% of these issues are attributable to idiopathic stressinduced cystitis — which basically means UTI inflammation without an identifiable cause. Outside of that, diabetes, kidney and liver issues, as well as crystal formation in the bladder, need to be ruled out by your veterinarian.

STRESS PLAYS A ROLE Has there been a recent change in your home, such as new people, a baby or other animals? Stress can cause behavioral issues that will have your cat communicating his disdain by urinating in spots other than the litterbox.

ENSURE EASY ACCESS Is your cat getting older and having a hard time accessing the litterbox? If so, it might help to move the litterbox to a spot that’s easier for your feline to use.

Has the litterbox’s location become busier than it used to be? Cats appreciate their privacy and quiet when doing their business, and don’t like to be disturbed. It can also feel like an innate safety issue to them, as animals are naturally more vulnerable when they are eliminating.

LITTERBOX AVERSION

Getting to the bottom of the issue is important. But in the meantime, getting rid of the odor of cat pee may be more of a challenge than you bargained for. It’s always good to have a sure-fire cleanup solution on hand.

SCOE 10X GETS RID OF PEE ODOR — GUARANTEED! SCOE 10X is different from other odor removers because it’s probiotic-based, which means it uses active, beneficial bacteria to seek out and eliminate the cause of odor at its root. It’s also completely non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and safe to use directly on animals or even your own skin. There are no harmful chemicals or passive-acting enzymes which render some products useless. Most importantly, it works on any odor you might encounter — even the notoriously stubborn smell of cat urine. While SCOE 10X comes with a money-back guarantee, the thousands of five-star reviews on Google indicate you won’t be returning the product anytime soon! https://scoe10x.com

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SELF CARE

decrease stress battling cancer

Dogs can

for those

Living with a chronic illness like cancer is no easy feat. Feelings of discouragement and fatigue are not uncommon, and some days the thought of just getting out of bed may feel unrealistic. The good news —research has shown that dogs can have a hugely positive impact on their person’s health, both mental and physical.

HOW DOGS IMPROVE PATIENTS’ MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH One study showed that, despite declines in physical and functional well-being over time, cancer patients experienced significant increases in social and emotional well-being when making daily animal-assisted visits during their treatment. Essentially, even as patients’ physical health was deteriorating, their mental health was thriving with the help of dogs and other animals.

Other research has also shown that animal-assisted therapy can help reduce pain and improve blood pressure for

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a variety of hospitalized patients, especially those battling cancer.

This is in part due to the fact that contact with dogs increases endorphins, a natural pain-relieving hormone.

In addition to the pain relief that contact with dogs can offer, being a pet parent prompts us to get outside and move. Dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy, which motivates those battling cancer to keep their bodies in motion.

4 SPECIAL ROLES DOGS CAN SERVE FOR CANCER PATIENTS Aside from just having a dog as a companion animal, there are several ways that dogs can be integrated into patients’ lives in an impactful way: Emotional support dogs: Mental health professionals often prescribe emotional support animals to help people deal with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

By Luke Strauss

This can be incredibly useful for cancer patients, who often struggle with their mental health.

Therapy dogs: Animal-assisted therapy is a common tool used to help people suffering with chronic illness. Usually, these dogs have been trained to comfort patients and ease the challenging emotions involved in cancer treatment.

Service dogs: Service dogs are specifically trained to help people living with certain disabilities accomplish tasks and get through their days.

Cancer-sniffing dogs: Certain dogs have such an amplified sense of smell that they can identify cancer cells in the early stages. Specifically, beagles, German shepherds, and Labrador retrievers have identified cancer cells.

Battling cancer is scary and exhausting, but a supportive community — and a supportive dog — can make all the difference.

Play is vital to your dog’s well-being, both physically and mentally, and choosing the right toys makes it even more beneficial.

I

Why PLAY is so

R IMPORTANT FOR DOGS

n today’s busy world, we don’t give play a very high priority. Yet, it’s important to physical, mental and emotional health — not just for us, but for our dogs too.

Playing with your dog is not only fun, it’s also good for both of you, and choosing the right toys makes it even better.

BENEFITS OF PLAY “Play keeps us young at heart and healthy in our bodies, and it does the same for our dogs,” says Christine Harris of Cooltugs, a company that offers toys specifically selected to optimize the play experience for dogs and their humans.

“Appropriate play is great physical exercise: it helps combat obesity, strengthens muscles, and increases overall fitness and health, and thus longevity.”

Along with giving dogs plenty of physical activity, play also provides them with mental stimulation, helping to prevent behavior problems. “A study conducted at Bristol University with over 4,000 dogs showed a significant correlation between an increase in play and a reduction in behavioral issues, such as anxiety and aggression,” says Christine.

THE RIGHT TOYS A dog trainer based in Vancouver, Christine has seen a lot of people struggle to play with their dogs in a way their canines enjoyed. “I realised a big part of this was having the right toys — those that are easy for people to use and rewarding for the dogs. My aim at Cooltugs is to find those toys and bring them to the consumer. I look for toys that I know dogs will love as they tap into their prey instinct, but that are also fun for the handler and relatively easy to use, so play becomes fun for both parties.”

Christine states that dog toys tend to fall into two categories — those that are better for tugging, and for chasing. “The number one thing every tug toy must have is an obvious place for the dog to bite or grip that will be a little meaty and

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and satisfying for him. We carry tug toys handmade by Floramicato; these are soft, plush, squeaky toys designed to excite and attract your dog and make him want to catch and bite them.

“We also carry toys designed by COLLAR, a Ukrainian company.” Christine says that her own dogs’ favorite toy is COLLAR’s PULLER Dog Fitness Tool. It comes as a pair so you have two toys that are exactly the same. “Using them as a pair can provide a great all-over body workout for you and your dog. They were also designed so that your hand is safe from your dog’s mouth on the other side of the ring, and are a safe way to play fetch as they roll well when properly thrown.”

Choosing the right toys for you and your dog enhances the play experience — and best of all, makes it fun!

NEED TO KNOW

INTERMITTENT FASTING: CAN IT HELP DOGS STAY HEALTHIER AND LIVE LONGER?

By Katie Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP

In many dogs (though not all), intermittent fasting can offer a variety of health benefits, from maintaining lean body mass to reducing the risk of neurodegenerative conditions and other age-related diseases.

There’s been lots of buzz lately about the benefits of intermittent fasting for humans — and now for dogs as well. Intermittent fasting, also termed therapeutic fasting, is a pattern that includes alternating cycles of eating and fasting. But is it safe or healthy for dogs? If so, can it offer benefits for canine health and longevity?

EVOLUTIONARY FACTORS

In truth, intermittent fasting is how dogs are evolutionarily designed to eat.

Wolves and other wild canines do not have continual access to food and are naturally faced with intermittent eating schedules that depend on their ability to find and catch prey or to successfully scavenge for food.

DID YOU KNOW? Research done in Yellowstone National Park revealed that wolves are well adapted to intermittent eating patterns and can thrive with long periods between meals.

Dr. Richard Patton, animal nutritionist and researcher, included similar comments in his book about the health of our canine companions, titled Ruined

by Excess, Perfected by Lack. In this book, he shares that canines and other carnivorous animals “have exquisitely

perfected the ability to survive with the intermittent lack of food. And in fact, they are poorly adapted to deal with constant excess, particularly with calories from starches and sugars.”

the topics of brain function and healthy aging. His studies with both animals and humans demonstrate that fasting can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing neurogenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

Dr. Mattson also reported increased lifespans in dogs that took part in fasting studies.

WHAT THE STUDIES SAY

Even beyond the necessary basics for surviving in the wild, cumulative research has shown significant health benefits arising from intermittent fasting — or said in another way, intermittent eating.

DID YOU KNOW? Reducing the frequency of meals is not only helpful for maintaining a lean body weight, but also reduces the incidence of specific diseases and health problems.

For many decades, studies have reported that intermittent fasting and/or reduced calorie intake has positive effects in humans. Newer emerging reports are showing the same types of positive benefits in dogs too. Here are a couple of examples: •

A study by Mark Mattson, PhD, a neuroscience professor at the John Hopkins School of Medicine, indicates that fasting and reducing daily calorie intake can be beneficial for your dog’s neurologic health. He has published extensively on

•

Scientists at the University of Arizona published a recent study titled “Once-daily feeding is associated with better cognitive function and health in companion dogs” in Results from the Dog Aging Project.

This research team analyzed data from over 24,000 dogs, looking for links between feeding frequency and health outcomes. Their findings suggested that feeding dogs just one meal a day reduces the risk of numerous health problems and age-related diseases, including cognitive decline, dental disease, GI tract (gastrointestinal) issues, liver disease, pancreatic disorders, urinary problems, kidney disease, and cancer.

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DOWNTIME FROM DIGESTION

When the body is not busy working on digestion (i.e. the breakdown and absorption of food particles), enzymes are freed up to focus more on detoxification, reducing inflammation and repairing tissues. During this downtime from digestion, the liver is also more efficient at processing waste products and eliminating toxic load.

Numerous reparative mechanisms are allowed to work better, and this helps the body regenerate.

Furthermore, periods of fasting effectively trigger the body to metabolize its fat stores for energy. Not only is this helpful to remaining lean, but losing fat means releasing toxins too. Indeed, adipose tissue (fat) is the primary storage site for toxins in the body.

DID YOU KNOW? Allowing periods of downtime from digestion (i.e. fasting) promotes both a leaner and a cleaner body.

UNDERSTANDING KETONES

It is helpful to understand how your dog uses stored fat for energy. When his body breaks down fat to use for fuel, molecules of energy called ketones are naturally produced. Ketones are a very efficient source of energy for muscles, including the heart muscle, and for other organs too, such as the brain. In fact, some studies suggest that ketones are the preferred source of fuel for the brain.

MCT oils (medium chain triglycerides) can also provide ketones, which is why this particular form of healthy fats is known to help with cognition and brain function, among other benefits.

Like humans, all dogs (wild and domestic) have the ability to utilize either glucose or ketones as a source of fuel for the body’s cells and tissues. Glucose will be readily used as the body’s first choice for fuel, if it is available. This means that if your dog is continually eating

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throughout the day, glucose is almost always available and his body will not have an opportunity to burn fat.

Another important aspect of this scenario is that each time glucose is made available through the breakdown of carbohydrate-containing foods, insulin is required to deliver that glucose into the cells of the body. This is not so desirable, as insulin is known to be a pro-inflammatory hormone, which means that frequent releases of insulin equate to higher levels of inflammation in the body.

Benefits of intermittent fasting •

•

DID YOU KNOW? When meal frequency and/or carbohydrate content are decreased in your dog’s diet, it can directly result in less inflammation in his body.

We now recognize that inflammation is associated with chronic diseases as well as degeneration in the body and advanced aging changes. By understanding this, you can see that both what you feed and how often you feed your dog can directly influence numerous health conditions, affect aging, and perhaps even longevity.

A WORD OF CAUTION

Generally, fasting is only safe for adult healthy dogs. Despite its potential benefits, there are many situations and health conditions for which fasting could be harmful and is not advised.

Puppies, for example, require consistent meals and calories because they are growing. This also holds true for pregnant and lactating females.

Senior dogs and very small toy breeds should avoid fasting as well.

When the body is not busy working on digestion, enzymes are freed up to focus more on detoxification, reducing inflammation and repairing tissues.

• •

• •

Elevated macrophage activity — defends the body and engulfs invaders, such as microbes or foreign substances, and mutating cells; also helpful for autoimmune conditions and cancers.

Tissue regeneration — the process of cleaning up and removing old cells, referred to as autophagy; the body’s mechanism for degrading and removing unwanted or dysfunctional components, allowing new healthy cells to replace the old cells; can improve the immune system.

Increased immunoglobulin/ antibody levels.

Increased natural killer cell activity — kills tumor cells and those infected with viruses.

Reduced insulin levels.

Prevention of neurologic diseases — study by Dr. Mattson shows fasting can benefit the brain and neurologic health.

Time-restricted feeding methods Three intermittent fasting or timerestricted feeding methods are commonly used for dogs: 1. Feed once a day, which allows for a 24-hour fast between each meal.

2. Feed two meals per day, but include them both within an eight-hour total time frame, which allows for a 16-hour fast each day.

3. Feed normally five or six days a week, then skip one meal one or two days per week.

It is important to note that not every dog will thrive with this meal plan. In my experience, small breed dogs have a higher tendency for gastric reflux symptoms or bile vomiting when their stomachs are empty for long periods. This does not appear to be as much of an issue with large breed dogs, but can certainly occur in any size or breed of canine.

For some dogs, this issue may be corrected or improved with digestive enzymes or other digestive supplements. In these cases, incremental periods of fasting may be tolerated by slowly and gradually adjusting for more extended time periods between meals.

And finally, although fasting may be beneficial for some dogs with certain health conditions, there are many illnesses or circumstances in which withholding meals would be inappropriate or harmful. So please be sure to consult with your veterinarian before considering a time-restricted eating plan (see sidebar opposite), to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your dog.

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GOLDEN YEARS

7

HERBS that support your

senior dog

BY CHRISTINE CAPLAN, CVT

Caring for a senior dog can be a challenge. Older canines often suffer from arthritis, heart disease, GI issues, cognitive decline, mobility problems and other issues. There are many ways to optimize an aging dog’s health and well-being as he goes through his golden years — including herbal medicine. This article looks at some of the herbs that can be used to support a senior dog’s health and well-being, from his immune system to his heart.

IMMUNE SUPPORT Senior dogs are more prone to developing disease, but a strong immune system can help stave off some of these problems, and keep dogs healthy as they get older.

1

ASTRAGALUS

Used with the guidance of your veterinarian (see sidebar on page 42), astragalus stimulates and strengthens your senior dog’s immune system. It has antioxidant effects that inhibit free radical production. It’s also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and lowers blood pressure.

BRAIN BOOSTERS Veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker and Rodney Habib, authors of The Forever Dog (ForeverDog.com) curated a list of anti-aging and longevity-promoting brain supplements for dogs, including: • • • •

40

Antioxidants, like vitamin E (from fruits and veggies) and vitamin C L-carnitine and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) SAMe EFAs or essential fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid — DHA)

Animal Wellness

Senior dogs need extra help to keep them happy and healthy. Used under the guidance of your veterinarian, these seven herbs address a range of age-related issues in your canine companion.

• •

Probiotics (support mental wellness as well as gut health and immunity) Ginkgo biloba

Supplements for seniors Along with herbs, many supplements can help keep your aging dog feeling younger. These are just two examples:

1. CoQ10 is everyone’s favorite senior dog supplement.

This fat-soluble, vitamin-like antioxidant supports and maintains natural energy production inside the mitochondria of cells. It’s recommended for all heart patients, helps prevent age-related cardiac disease, and slows the progression of congestive heart failure.

2. SAMe helps treat cancer, liver problems, and canine cognitive dysfunction. Many human studies show that SAMe is useful for reducing pain, as well as helping with sleep problems and confusion.

2

GINKGO BILOBA

Ginkgo is one of the most popular herbs for boosting cognitive function, and is one of the oldest plant medicines on earth. The fall-harvested leaves are used and prepared as a tincture, tea, or capsule. Studies show that ginkgo elevates energy levels in the brain. This plant also improves kidney function and treats early renal failure.

Hospice care Hospice focuses on terminally ill patients and helps transition your dog to a peaceful passing. Along with herbs, an integrative vet might also prescribe supplements and conventional pain medications to keep the dog comfortable.

Hospice is also defined as taking care of an older dog with chronic health issues that impact quality of life, such as renal failure and health disease. For example, my 15-yearold dog, Sherman, is in renal failure yet remains stable. He is under the care of many vets, including a holistic doctor. Sherman currently takes turmeric/curcumin as well as the Chinese herbal formala Yi Guan Jian for mobility, liver protection and his renal disease.

Thanks to this care, Sherman is thriving, not just surviving, in old age.

MOBILITY HELPER

Many older dogs have arthritis and other joint problems that cause pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

Alleviating these issues dramatically improves quality of life.

3

LICORICE ROOT (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA)

This herb is known to reduce joint pain and help with arthritis. It’s useful for a wide variety of inflammation issues and is also known to treat skin conditions.

GUT SUPPORT

Digestive problems become more common as dogs age. The following herbs can help support gut health in senior dogs with special dietary needs.

4

GINGER

Ginger is known as the anti-nausea herb and addresses oxidative stress in animals. Many older dogs suffer from indigestion, bloating and gas, and ginger is a common solution for these issues.

5

DANDELION

This common “weed” is chock full of prebiotic fiber, and has a cleansing effect on the liver. More nutritious even than kale, dandelion is often used as a way to replenish needed vitamins in senior dogs.

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Animal Wellness

LIVER PROTECTION

Aging affects all the organ systems. Liver issues are often noticed in senior dogs when lab work is done at wellness appointments.

DANDELION IS OFTEN USED AS A WAY TO REPLENISH NEEDED VITAMINS IN SENIOR DOGS.

6

MILK THISTLE

This liver detox herb maximizes anti-aging and pro-longevity actions in the body. It accelerates liver regeneration in dogs with liver issues, and prevents further damage. Active substances in milk thistle may also have anti-cancer effects. This herb helps flush out the residue from veterinary medication.

HEART HEALTH

Problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure can affect dogs as they get older, so doing what you can to support your canine’s heart health is important.

7

HAWTHORN (CRATAEGUS SPECIES)

Hawthorn berry extract is often used to help with cardiovascular efficiency. It dilates the coronary vessels, and the vessels of the brain, to increase circulation and the transport of nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. Hawthorn has been used for centuries to improve cardiac function and output, and to support the entire cardiovascular system.

The herbs outlined in this article are just the start when it comes to helping your senior dog live his best life during his final years or months.

Always

consult a Vet first

Using herbs increases your dog’s quality of life and even delays disease onset. Before using herbs with your senior dog, however, it’s important to consult with an integrative or holistic veterinarian, since any herb may interact with other drugs and medicine. This is especially important if your dog has a terminal illness.

Choosing safe

By Tavor White

Chewing is essential to dogs, enhancing oral health and satisfying psychological needs. So choosing the right chew is vital for your dog’s safety and well-being.

dog chews A PROFUSION OF CASUALTIES Abraham Lincoln advised his generals: “Hold on with a bulldog grip, and chew and choke as much as possible.” Unfortunately, his guidance also describes many dogs’ chew experience. Most of the 64 million U.S. dog households offer chews to their 90 million dogs. Based on recent studies, we conservatively estimate that tens of thousands of serious chew casualties occur among these dogs, along with millions of gum lesions (Figure 1). This analysis only includes esophageal, not other GI obstructions, and only those cases in the USA that reach the ER.

STUDY DEBUNKS MYTHS •

•

•

•

Figure 1: Estimated Annual USA Dog Casualties Due to Chews

Soft chews are safer: Not necessarily. Although they may pose a reduced lesion risk, they can be extremely undigestible, presenting a heightened risk of GI obstruction.

It is okay to throw your dog a bone: No, it is not.

Many bone types are among the least digestible/ most unsafe chews available and are prone to fracturing into sharp shards.

Hard cheese chews are safe because they are natural: No, they are not. They are extremely undigestible, are prone to fragmenting into sharp shards, and can expand in a dog’s digestive tract.

Dental chews are safe: Not necessarily. Some are quite undigestible.

You wouldn’t provide your child with a snack that was not digestibly degradable and that fragmented into sharp shards, would you? Of course not!

Disclosure: The author developed DigestaBone and has interest in Chews Happiness® (chewshappiness. com).

Tavor White founded the Chew Safety Institute (chewsafetyinstitute.org) and has conducted hundreds of dog chew safety tests (info@chewsafetyinstitute.org).

A DARK SECRET TO CHEW ON

Figure 2: % Digestible Degradability by Chew Category* (based on 32 chews tested)

We found that although many chews claim high digestibility and longevity, most products tested are neither safe nor durable, and are therefore falsifying claims. We tested 32 chews across ten categories for safety and durability. Only three tested (9.4%) can be considered safe. Nineteen (56.4%) claim high digestibility or high digestive degradability (the ability of a food item to disintegrate in the digestive tract), yet only DigestaBone® exhibited consistently safe performance (Figure 2).

DigestaBone also proved to be one of the few highly durable chews.

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2021

AP

PROVED

PRODUCT

What we love: They also offer an at-home test to detect bacterial imbalances in your animal.

PICKS

What we love: Can also be used as meal toppers or treats.

FMT made simple

Looking for a dog food that’s both healthy and ethically produced? ZIWI Peak Air-Dried foods are perfectly crafted for dogs of all breeds and life stages, and feature ethically-raised meats produced by farmers in New Zealand. Featuring 96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand Green Mussels, ZIWI offers a natural, convenient, raw diet alternative for your dog.

A healthy gut microbiome is vital to your dog’s health and well-being. DoggyBiome™ Gut Restore Supplement is a unique fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in a capsule. This veterinarianrecommended product addresses a range of chronic digestive issues and skin conditions in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, itchy skin, and atopic dermatitis.

ziwipets.com

AnimalBiome.com

Natural, ethical nutrition

What we love:

Plant-based diets for pets

For extra freshness, they make their dry foods in small batches every three to eight weeks.

When done properly, a plant-based diet for your four-legged friend is not only possible, but also healthy, as well as being more ethical. Evolution Diet offers a line of kibble and canned plant-based foods, along with a selection of healthy and tasty treats. To get started, try a Sample Pack before ordering a large bag. evolutiondietpetfood.com

What we love:

Available in six recipes, including Chicken, Duck, Trout, Rabbit and more.

Raw food for cats – made easy A raw diet will help keep your kitty healthy and lean.

Northwest Naturals’ Frozen Cat Nibbles are naturally nutritious, convenient and easy to feed. All their muscle and organ meats are chopped (not ground) and quick frozen to maintain ingredient integrity. Ground raw bone is also added for a true carnivore diet. nw-naturals.net

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What we love: This soap-free shampoo won’t strip his coat.

Optimal joint health Whatever your dog’s age, supporting his joint health is important for his mobility and comfort. DuraJoint from C&E Animal Health contains essential, properly balanced functional components for maximum joint health. It helps reduce inflammation and pain, promotes joint fluid viscosity, supports cartilage and connective tissue, and more. ceanimalhealth.com

Soothe her skin Itchy, irritated skin can be a big issue during the summer months. From Swedencare, Lyxvara™ Aloe & Oatmeal Shampoo provides your dog or cat relief from itching, scaling and sensitivity. This hypoallergenic formula also contains emollients to restore natural moisture to the skin.

What we love: Contains hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin sulfate, yucca, vitamins C and D3.

swedencareusa.com

What we love: Includes a user-friendly manual complete with custom illustrations.

Learn first aid for your animal When emergencies occur, quick action is paramount, and being able to respond quickly if your dog or cat needs immediate help can save his life. Walks 'N' Wags’ online Pet First Aid course includes hands-on practice, multiple choice quizzes, and free email and phone support from a tutor. walksnwags.com

What we love: Fabrics are made from non-toxic, machinewashable cotton and polyester.

Comfy and stylish You love having your dog or cat near you when you sleep at night…but what if he hogs the bed? Ultimate Pet Bed offers you and your companion the perfect solution — comfy, welldesigned pet beds that can either rest on the floor or attach to your own mattress, so you can be together while also having your own sleeping spots! ultimatepetbed.com

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Animal Hospice Group provides Education and Support for End-of-life Care Whether you need care support for your dog or cat during his final weeks or months, or would like to become a certified animal hospice practitioner, this organization can help.

As our dogs and cats age, the time inevitably comes when we need to start thinking about end-of-life care. More and more people are turning to animal hospice for their companions’ last weeks or months. Based on the principles of human hospice care, animal hospice helps ensure that a dog or cat in the final stages of life is comfortable and cared for. It also helps provide peace of mind and consolation for his human family.

“Animal hospice is a team-oriented, interdisciplinary approach providing compassionate quality care and support on a physical, emotional, social, and spiritual level throughout the end-of-life process,” says Gail Pope of Animal Hospice Group (AHG). “It’s tailored to the needs and wishes of the patient and his or her family.”

THE BENEFITS OF ANIMAL HOSPICE An animal guardian may choose hospice care in order to have time to say goodbye to their companion, to plan for the death, and to ensure that all decisions are guided by their personal view of their dog or cat’s particular needs and requirements. “If you have the resources to support comfort care, the time and

desire to care for your animal during his or her last days or weeks, and a good support team in place, then hospice care may be the right choice for you,” adds Gail.

MAKING A CONNECTION AHG’s mission is to connect with both animal guardians and hospice practitioners to support, educate, empower, and inspire; the organization works toward a day when all caregivers and their animals have ready availability to animal hospice and palliative care support and guidance through an interdisciplinary team approach.

AGH also offer a Certified Animal Hospice Practitioner program that anyone can apply to — no prior qualifications are required. The program includes nine modules followed by a comprehensive examination. A passing grade results in a Certificate of Completion and allows the student to proceed to the Internship and Helpline, Module 10, at any given point in the future. “Once the Helpline Practicum and Examination have also been passed, the graduate earns the title of Certified Animal Hospice Practitioner (CAHP),” says Gail. Meanwhile, animal parents who are looking for a qualified CAHP to help them and their dogs and cats through end-of-life care, will be able to find a list of AHG qualified practitioners on the website.

“Educational materials and support will also be provided to the public as part of our free Animal Hospice Helpline service, launching this summer,” adds Gail.

Preparing to say goodbye to a beloved dog or cat is never easy, but animal hospice can help make the transition less stressful, both physically and emotionally. www.animalhospicegroup.com Animal Wellness

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AGING WELL

Reasons Dogs look like their People Do you look just like your dog? Here are a few reasons why this comical phenomenon occurs!

Similarities in appearance between people and their dogs are actually more common than you’d think — the phenomenon has even been scientifically proven! The question is, why do humans look like their dogs, or vice versa? Here are a few possibilities.

1

It Happens on Purpose

In many cases, humans purposefully search for dogs that are similar to them — both physically and attitudinally. For example, people who live an active lifestyle will try to find a companion that can join them on hikes or runs. These are typically dogs with lots of energy and ambition, like shepherds or retrievers. On the other hand, there are people who live a more relaxed, slow-paced lifestyle. Pups who love to cuddle in bed all day and watch the squirrels out the window are great companions for these folks. Great human-canine bonds are built when the two can co-exist well together.

It Happens Subconsciously

Humans tend to gravitate towards things that feel familiar and safe. For example, people with long hair might be more in favor of dogs with droopy, long ears, while those with short hair might love a pooch with perked ears. There could be hundreds of reasons to justify why someone might choose one dog over another, but it really all comes down to feeling familiar and comfortable with your companion.

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Dogs take on our mannerisms

2

Even if a dog doesn’t physically resemble his guardian, he may still appear to look like her because he acts like her. Dogs absorb our emotions. Our behaviors and feelings are passed onto them whether we want them to pick them up or not. This is why therapy dogs are so popular! A dog’s powerful senses allow him to exude empathy and form deep, emotional bonds with his people.

Animal Wellness

As with all families, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Whether it happens on purpose or not, having a mini-me companion is always a thing to treasure!

Did you know that cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over the age of two, and the second leading cause of death in cats? Roughly 12 million canine and feline companions are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States alone — that’s a lot of animals (and their people) impacted by this dreaded disease!

As in humans, there are many distinct types of animal cancer — more than 100 different types are recognized in dogs and cats. Some of these cancers are benign and/ or treatable, while others are aggressive with a poor long-term prognosis. These aggressive cancers are of special interest to veterinary researchers, who hope to find easier and earlier ways to detect the disease, improve treatment options, and if possible, identify preventive measures to stop these diseases in their tracks.

MOST COMMON CANCERS DIAGNOSED IN DOGS AND CATS TOP DOG CANCERS • Osteosarcoma Most common primary bone tumor • Hemangiosarcoma Commonly affects the spleen, liver and heart

• Mast cell tumors Most common canine skin tumors • Lymphoma Stems from lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) or lymphatic tissue • Transitional cell carcinoma Most common tumor of the urinary system TOP CAT CANCERS • Lymphoma Often associated with the cancercausing feline leukemia virus • Squamous cell carcinoma Most common feline oral cancer • Mammary (breast) cancer More common in intact cats • Fibrosarcoma Arises from fibrous connective tissue just beneath the skin

FUNDRAISING TO SUPPORT CANCER RESEARCH To help find solutions for these and other animal cancers, Morris Animal Foundation has been supporting animal cancer research for 60 years. It has also recently established its annual Stop Cancer Furever fundraising campaign.

The foundation’s early funded studies focused on the basics of the disease — knowing why and how certain cancers form and spread through the body.

Today, funding focuses on providing veterinarians and veterinary oncologists with the best cutting-edge tools and knowledge for improving the care and survival of dogs and cats diagnosed with cancer. This includes improved imaging for diagnosis and surgical removal of tumors, more targeted chemotherapy, addressing chemotherapy resistance, and developing immunotherapies (a way to reprogram the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells).

Morris Animal Foundation’s Stop Cancer Furever campaign runs May 1 through June 30. Every donation, large or small, supports life-saving pet cancer research.

Visit: morrisanimalfoundation.org/SCFANIMAL-WELLNESS to make your gift, and help dogs and cats diagnosed with cancer live longer, healthier lives.

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YOUR GUIDE TO

CAMPING

WITH DOGS

by Sara Jordan-Heintz

Camping is even more enjoyable when you bring your dog along!

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to maximize safety and keep things fun.

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Taking your dog on a camping trip is an ideal way to bond and enjoy nature together. Before you head out, it’s important to take your dog’s comfort and safety into consideration so your time in the great outdoors isn’t marred by an accident or other problem. Researching your campsite location, packing essential items, and being prepared in case of emergency can help guarantee a fun and relaxing experience for both of you.

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH PARK RULES AND REGULATIONS Information about parks and other areas that allow camping is readily available on the internet and social media. Still, it’s a good idea to reach out directly to a park’s office to learn more about any rules and regulations.

“We are seeing an increase in visitors bringing their dogs to state parks — part of this is due to the general overall increase in visitation since the pandemic,” says Rachel Hopper, who is with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

In addition, a growing number of people have dogs nowadays, and many treat them like family members, which means they travel together more. This is good news, of course, but because more dogs are accompanying their people on camping trips, it becomes more important than ever to follow park rules to keep the experience safe and pleasant for everyone.

• •

For example, most parks require your dog to be on a leash. “Keeping your dog on a leash at all times is probably the number one thing you can do to keep him safe while you’re camping,” says Andy Bartlett, park manager for Ledges State Park in Madrid, Iowa.

•

This includes keeping him leashed while at your campsite, when you’re relaxing outside your tent or RV. This is for his safety as well as that of other dogs and campers.

“Don’t let your off-leash dog run up to or approach an on-leash dog,” says Paige Lackey of Project Rustic, an RV tour of Michigan. It doesn’t matter if your dog is friendly; others may be reactive.”

• •

•

Dogs should only be taken on designated hiking trails. “Be respectful of everyone you meet on the trail,” adds Paige.

•

Another important rule is to clean up after your dog.

People failing to pick up dog excrement, or not properly disposing of dog waste sacks, are among the biggest complaints park managers receive

UNDERSTAND YOUR DESTINATION’S GEOGRAPHY AND TERRAIN Think about where you’re taking your dog, and consider any potential hazards he might encounter.

•

Are you camping in the mountains, on the plains, near a desert, forest, or large body of water? Will there be easy access to potable water for you and your dog?

What types of plant life could your dog come in contact with? Which predators live nearby — are there wolves, cougars, bears, or others? Are there active train tracks near the vicinity?

•

If you’re heading into the mountains, keep in mind that dogs can get altitude sickness just as people can. An adverse reaction to altitude in a dog manifests as headshaking and howling, due to the discomfort caused by air pressure changes. The effects of altitude sickness can occur above 8,000 feet and include vomiting, headache, or worst-case scenario, a build-up of fluid in the lungs and brain.

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•

If the weather has been wet, plan to set up camp away from rivers and avoid low-lying places to safeguard against flash floods. Know where storm shelters are located.

•

Never let your dog travel in a vehicle that’s being towed.

•

Smartphone apps can help you find pet-friendly hotels, attractions and restaurants either en route or at your destination.

It’s important to pack for your dog as well as yourself. Here’s a list of what to bring:

•

Don’t allow your dog to eat any unknown foliage.

Many plants are toxic.

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Food and water bowls, along with a supply of your dog’s regular food.

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Don’t let him drink from lakes or streams. Make sure he has access to clean, pure water when he needs it.

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Any supplements or medications he’s taking.

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His medical records and the number of an emergency vet, in case of injury or illness.

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ID for your dog — even if he’s microchipped, he should have collar identification in the form of your name and phone number. Your vehicle’s license plate number could help match your dog to you if he’s located by a fellow camper.

PACK EVERYTHING YOUR DOG WILL NEED

•

Your dog’s harness and leash.

•

His carrier or crate, as well as a dog seat belt or harness to keep him safe in your vehicle.

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A brush, shampoo, anti-itch sprays and creams can help keep your dog comfortable.

•

A life jacket is important for boating, water sports, the beach or a pool.

•

A raincoat will help keep him dry in the event of rain.

•

Dog boots, if you’re going to be walking on hot sand or pavement.

•

A doggy first aid kit.

Once you’ve covered all the bases for keeping your dog safe and comfortable on your camping trip, you can both relax, enjoy, have fun and make new memories!

Additional tips •

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Rachel suggests doing a trial run before your camping trip, to get your dog used to the idea.

“Take him on a day visit to a busy park and see how he does.”

Animal Wellness

Wild animals to watch for Dogs are inquisitive by nature. If your canine comes face-to-face with one of the following animals, a quick response can make all the difference.

Snakes — While many snakebites are harmless, some aren’t. So if your dog gets bitten, it’s best to seek veterinary care promptly. Some immediate steps you can take include rinsing the wound with water to remove venom. Keep the wounded area at a level below the dog’s heart, if you can, and keep him calm to help prevent the venom from circulating in the body at a faster rate.

Porcupines — Porcupine quills can be dangerous to dogs. Do not try to pull them out yourself. They need to be removed by a veterinarian as quickly as possible; a delay can cause the quills to become even more embedded in the dog’s skin. Quills that aren’t removed within 24 hours can increase the risk of abscess.

Coyotes — If you and your dog encounter a coyote, use a whistle, bell or phone alarm to scare it off. Don’t turn your back and run. Stand still, make yourself look big and back away slowly.

Skunks — If a skunk sprays your dog, first check his eyes for signs of redness or irritation. Flush the eyes with cool water or a veterinary-grade eyewash. Remove the skunk oil from his coat as soon as possible. Bathe your dog in either a tomato juice bath or a specific product sold for this purpose. (If you’re camping in an area where skunks are known to live, it’s a good idea to pack these products, just in case!)

HEALTH ALERT

IS YOUR DOG PANTING EXCESSIVELY?

BY ERIN MULLEN

All dogs pant, especially when it’s hot out, but excessive panting could be a danger sign. Here’s what you need to know.

Summer’s here, and your dog is frolicking in the grass. His tongue is lolling and he’s panting up a storm. Most of the time, a panting dog is little cause for concern. After all, every canine pants and there are numerous reasons why, most of which are perfectly normal. Excessive panting, however, can sometimes signal a problem that requires veterinary assistance. As a dog parent, it’s important for you to be aware of the differences and to know when to call your vet.

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REASONS WHY DOGS PANT

1. Warm weather One of the most common reasons for a dog to pant is because he is hot. “The evaporation of sweat from our skin cools us humans,” says veterinarian Dr. Doug Knueven. “Since dogs do not have sweat glands in their skin, the evaporation of oral fluids allowed by panting helps cool them down.” Certain dog breeds reach panting levels of heat far more quickly than others. “Breeds developed in different climates have different temperature preferences,” says

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Dr. Knueven. Some dogs also have a high rate of metabolism that can increase their temperature and lead to panting.

What to do: It is important to know your dog’s temperature tolerance both as an individual and as a member of his breed (or mix of breeds).

Avoid exercising him when the weather is very hot and humid. Take him for walks in the mornings or evenings when the temperatures are a little cooler, and make sure he has 24/7 access to fresh, pure water. In the house, use AC or fans to help keep your dog comfortably cool.

2. Heat stroke This is a life-threatening condition that all dog parents need to be aware of. It occurs when a dog is overheated, most often during the summer months. Excessive panting, heavy drooling, weakness, gait changes and collapse are all signs of heat stroke.

“For flat-faced dogs, overheating can be especially dangerous, leading to respiratory distress,” says Dr. Knueven.

"Since dogs do not have sweat glands in their skin, the evaporation of oral fluids allowed by panting helps cool them down."

3. Anxiety When a dog is in a stressful situation, he can become anxious. And when he’s fearful or nervous, panting occurs involuntarily. Being in an unfamiliar place, away from his people, at the vet’s office, in a vehicle, crate or other restricted location can lead to anxiety and excessive panting. And when a dog is fearful or nervous, panting occurs involuntarily. Often, the level of stress is directly proportional to how much the dog is panting.

What to do: Paying close attention to your dog, and noticing how much he pants in certain situations, can help you recognize when you need to take steps to ease his stress or even avoid situations that may be triggering him.

4. Pain It’s often not obvious when dogs are in pain, since they’re good at hiding discomfort. But one possible sign is excessive panting.

Panting without a clear cause may indicate that your dog is ill or injured, or suffering from a health condition that generates pain or discomfort, such as arthritis or GI distress.

What to do: If you suspect your dog is in any pain or discomfort, whether he’s panting or not, a trip to the vet is in order. He’ll need an examination and possibly some diagnostic tests to get to the root of the problem.

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5. Medication Various medications may lead to excessive panting if they make a dog feel uncomfortable. Some drugs cause a variety of side effects such as nausea, blood pressure changes, and more.

Panting can be a normal side effect of the medication, or it can be a red flag. “Steroids such as prednisone are especially notorious for causing panting,” says Dr. Knueven.

What to do: If your dog has to go on a conventional medication, it is always wise to discuss any potential side effects with your veterinarian to determine what might be expected. If your dog becomes particularly uncomfortable while on the medication, ask your vet if the dosage or type of drug needs to be adjusted.

6. Cushing’s disease and other conditions Cushing’s is an often chronic illness whose symptoms include increased panting that can occur all hours of the day, regardless of weather conditions. “Cushing’s disease is also commonly accompanied by excessive thirst and urination as well as a swollen abdomen,” adds Dr. Knueven. Disease-related panting can also be caused by high blood pressure conditions, infections causing fever, bloat, heart disease, lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, pleural effusion, and cancer.

What to do: New patterns of panting, especially at seemingly odd times, merit a visit to the veterinarian.

When it comes to disease-related panting, there are many potential causes, so tests will need to be done to determine the cause. Blood testing, x-rays, and more can be vital diagnostic tools.

Excessive panting can have many causes, some of which are life-threatening or signal serious illness.

Any change in your dog’s behavior, including how much or how often he pants, needs to be checked out.

And remember to keep him cool during the dog days of summer!

“

When a dog is fearful or nervous, panting occurs involuntarily.

“

What to do: Pay close attention to your dog during hot weather and move him to a cool area immediately if he’s panting excessively or showing other signs that he’s getting too warm.

If he’s exhibiting serious symptoms, get him to an emergency vet right away. “It is not wise to rapidly cool a dog suffering from serious heat stroke because it can throw his system into life-threatening shock,” Dr. Knueven cautions.

NGroaomtinug prroaduclts

— the safe choice f o r yo u r d o g Regularly bathing your dog helps keep his skin and coat healthy and clean. But if you’re using commercial soaps and shampoos, you may be doing him more harm than good. Their ingredients can cause skin irritation, itching and even rashes, all of which get worse when the dog starts scratching, licking, or even biting the area in an effort to find relief.

It’s time to toss these products and turn to something safe and natural.

“Mother Nature has created all the necessary ingredients to keep your dog’s skin healthy and clean,” says Louise Knight, who owns WashBar with her husband, Andy. “When I looked at some of the pet products on the market for our dog, Badger, I realised I had no idea what was actually in them. When I dug a little deeper I found they contained synthetic fragrances, fillers and other cheap artificial ingredients that I wouldn’t choose for myself, so why would I choose them for Badger? I wanted to know what ingredients were being used in my dog’s hygiene products, and I wanted them to have a real reason for being included.

And that’s what we did with WashBar.”

Throw out those chemical-laden pet soaps and shampoos. Natural grooming products that use only gentle, non-toxic ingredients are much safer and better for your dog’s coat and skin.

FROM BAR SOAPS TO SPRAYS WashBar offers a range of natural pet grooming products produced in New Zealand, including bar soaps, paw balm, shampoos, and a grooming spray. “Very few companies are dedicated to solid bar soaps for dogs,” says Louise. “There are pet grooming manufacturers that include a bar in their range, but it’s not their main focus. And there are soap makers that include a soap for dogs, but the companies are not dog-focused.”

MANUKA AND KANUKA OILS Along with keeping your dog clean and healthy, WashBar products provide relief from scratching and care for minor wounds, thanks to their powerhouse ingredients, Manuka and Kanuka oils.

Manuka oil is known for its antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties, while Kanuka oil is anti-inflammatory as well as antibacterial and antifungal.

Both are steam-distilled from plants indigenous to New Zealand, and sourced from the remote East Cape where the plants contain the highest

levels of triketones in the world. The more triketones, the higher the oil’s antimicrobial benefits.

HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT Another part of WashBar’s mission is to help care for the natural environment.

“It’s better for our dogs and better for ourselves, and that’s why we sell solid soap bars,” says Louise. “They’re packed in environmentally-friendly compostable cardboard boxes. I believe that every plastic shampoo bottle saved is a small step in the right direction, and makes a huge difference. To date, WashBar customers have saved just short of one million plastic bottles from landfill.

And that’s just the start. Throughout 2022, we aim to save another quarter of a million bottles, and this goal will grow exponentially every year thereafter.” washbar.com

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ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

Using

When it comes to supporting your dog or cat’s health, there are more options available today than ever before.

Using homeopathic principles can help you decide what’s best for him.

HOMEOPATHIC PRINCIPLES for a healthy dog or cat

D gs Cats

by Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH

Are you unsure which food is best for your dog or cat? Do you feel uneasy about your veterinarian’s insistence on flea chemicals? Do you desire deep and long-lasting health for your companion, rather than merely stopping symptoms?

When it comes to caring for your dog or cat as holistically as possible, there are a lot of questions to consider, and finding the answers can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we’ll look at how using the principles of homeopathy can help guide you every step of the way.

BASIC HOMEOPATHIC PRINCIPLES

Homeopathy was established in the late 1700s by a German doctor named Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, and is based on the following principles: I. Each individual is born with one underlying energy field (vital force).

• This means each dog or cat is sensitive to different triggers.

For instance, of 20 dogs in a play group exposed to kennel cough, only some will get symptoms. As another example, some cats thrive on chicken while others vomit after eating only a small amount.

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II. Symptoms are caused by an imbalanced vital force.

• Most symptoms, even serious ones, are not caused by the trigger (e.g. bee sting, virus, over-exertion). Usually, the trigger to which your animal is sensitive disturbs his energy template, which then tries to restore balance by producing symptoms. The goal of conventional health care approaches is to eliminate current symptoms rather than getting to the root of the issue.

III. The totality of symptoms represents the energy template.

• These include all current and past symptoms, especially odd ones that clearly indicate each animal’s uniqueness.

The EWS (Early Warning Signs) of internal imbalance give you more symptoms. For example, older dogs are often stiff and arthritic when the weather is cold and damp. If the dog is worse when the weather is hot and dry, this would point more clearly to a particular treatment.

IV. Treat the individual, not the disease (trigger).

• This is a very different approach than that taken by conventional medicine. Focusing on rebalancing the quantum pattern of the individual, and restoring natural

vitality rather than merely eliminating symptoms, builds long-term health and resiliency. Avoiding the triggers is often only temporarily helpful. Not feeding a specific protein may resolve allergy symptoms, but if the vital force is not re-balanced, the animal will develop allergies to the new protein.

V. Know the few ways every individual can respond to any treatment or lifestyle change.

• Cure happens when the animal feels better overall, with good BEAM for that individual (Behavior, Energy, Appetite, and Mood). The current symptoms slowly resolve and stay away. The EWS also begin to disappear.

•

Palliation provides temporary help with no improvement in BEAM.

•

Suppression resolves current symptoms but BEAM is worse and the animal becomes increasingly ill later.

STEPS TO RECOGNIZING IMBALANCE 1.

Start now to evaluate your dog or cat’s vitality and balance.

Focus first on quality of life symptoms (BEAM). Do not assume that age is causing lower energy, or that your recent move is responsible for your cat’s hissing and biting.

Certainly, use common sense. If the animal’s appetite is off but everything else is fine, for example, explore possibilities such as dislike of a new food, or a change of ingredients in an existing food.

2.

Look at the EWS. If more signs are appearing, the balance is worse. For instance, if there used to be a little crud in your dog’s eye corners a few days a week, but now you have to wipe them several times a day, there’s an issue. Taking steps to build vitality and balance at this stage may prevent overt illness.

3.

Learn to do a physical exam on a regular basis at home.

Look your dog or cat over for any signs of a problem, such as poor coat or skin condition, lumps or bumps, sore ears or mouth, etc.

If your dog or cat is currently ill, start keeping a journal and carefully record all the above along with a timeline of any problems that may have preceded the illness. Include any treatments of these or other symptoms; the treatments themselves may have led to the current problem. Think about other possible triggers and record them.

STEPS TO RESTORING BALANCE

Begin with some lifestyle improvements: 1. Feed the best possible diet, including a wide variety of fresh food, at least part of the time.

2. Provide 24/7 access to clean pure water.

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3.

4.

5.

Avoid toxins, including flea and tick chemicals, excess vaccines, household cleaners, pesticides, etc.

Stimulate his body and mind – even cats and older dogs can learn tricks.

Learn energy modalities such as Reiki, Healing Touch for Animals, etc., and offer them daily.

If you have noticed some symptoms of concern, yet your dog or cat still has good BEAM, try adding in the following gentle approaches, one or two at a time. It’s always a good idea to consult with a holistic or integrative vet before starting any new therapies: • • • • •

Flower essences Acupressure Massage Essential oils (use only high quality therapeutic-grade oils) Herbs (use under the guidance of a holistic or integrative vet)

If his BEAM is not great, and you are concerned about his symptoms, take him for a veterinary exam.

If you focus on re-balancing your dog or cat’s energy field, his symptoms may naturally resolve. Don’t just stop the symptoms; build vitality instead.

Many animals will heal on their own with gentle support. When your intuition nudges you and/or your companion’s BEAM is worsening, make an appointment with your holistic or integrative veterinarian. him for a veterinary exam.

If you focus on re-balancing your dog or cat’s energy field, his symptoms may naturally resolve. Don’t just stop the symptoms; build vitality instead.

Many animals will heal on their own with gentle support. When your intuition nudges you and/or your companion’s BEAM is worsening, make an appointment with your holistic or integrative veterinarian.

HMDM – Holistic Medical Decision Making Based on hopmeopathic principles, HMDM is another way to decide how to proceed.

•

Set a goal. Depending on the problem, this could range from getting immediate emergency care to working on rebalancing the animal’s underlying energy field/vital force so his body can heal itself and stay healthy.

•

Do research using trusted sources. Your animal’s symptoms are the most critical starting points for research.

•

Pause to digest all the information you’ve gathered and create a plan — in writing. Take action, then evaluate the response to any changes.

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Case reports Susy

Susy, a six-month-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, has a mild heart murmur.

She also had a lot of digestive issues when younger, but they resolved with some conventional treatment. Susy’s mom decided to build up her vitality and later do an ovary-sparing spay.

Starting a journal, she noticed several EWS — tear stains on the face and a doggy odor. Her goal is Dr. Hahnemann’s — to fully restore Susy’s health. She started by learning a home heart health exam and doing it every month, since Cavaliers tend to have heart problems.

She found that CoQ10 could be beneficial, and also purchased a raw food diet. She started giving Susy Reiki every day.

Within a few weeks, Susy’s doggy odor was gone. Then the tear stains resolved.

The stains returned after a few months, even though Susy was still on the same raw food diet, so her mom started preparing 50% of her meals with a variety of fresh ingredients. The tear stains resolved once more.

Joey

Joey was a cat who stayed fairly healthy until his 15th year. His mom realized he had been slowing down for several years, was drinking a lot of water and losing weight. Her goal was to discover possible organ problems, so she took Joey to the vet for testing.

It turned out Joey had kidney disease.

The conventional vet recommended euthanization since Joey did not like to be handled, which meant fluids would be impossible. Mom’s new goal was to find holistic care, but she lived in a very rural area. She consulted a homeopathic veterinarian by telephone, and together they helped Joey live a happy life for another seven years, with occasional holistic remedies, a fresh food diet, and increased play therapy.

Why d o g s d e n e variety in their fo o d

ROTATIONAL FEEDING GIVES THEM THE NUTRITION THEY NEED

It’s long been the advice of choice to put your dog on one food and keep her on it for her lifetime. But what if that isn’t exactly accurate? It is true that dogs who have been fed the same food for many years can experience stomach upset when abruptly changing their diet. But it is also true that feeding them the same meat and other ingredients day after day means your dog is not getting the wide range of amino acids and nutrients necessary for optimum health.

CAN YOU SWITCH OLDER DOGS TO ROTATIONAL FEEDING? While starting your dog on rotational feeding early in their lives is the best choice, older dogs can still adjust quickly and reap the benefits of an influx of new nutrients. If you’re considering switching your more senior dog to rotational feeding, some food brands work better than others.

NutriSource has created their foods with rotational feeding in mind.

“Most feeding guides and veterinarians will suggest a five to seven day period of adjustment for your dog where their old food is gradually phased out,” says Marketing Director Adam Martodam.

“This is not always the case with NutriSource foods and often your dog can be fed the new food as soon as you bring it home from the store.” However, if you’ve been feeding your dog supermarket brand foods, it may be wise to transition her a little more slowly. “It likely won’t take as long as you might think, though.”

PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS HELP Besides well-researched, quality ingredients, NutriSource also includes nutrients beneficial to your dog’s stomach that help with easy transition from one protein and carbohydrate source to another. The innovative Good 4 Life system supplies all the prebiotics and probiotics your dog needs to build a healthy gut that easily shifts from food to food.

“The probiotics and prebiotics help with mineral absorption and support your dog’s immunity by producing natural antibiotics and antifungals in the gut for optimal health,” Adam says.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU SWITCH YOUR DOG’S FOOD? “Ideally, you should change your dog’s food every day, switching up the proteins as you go,” Adam says. To keep your dog’s food fresh, buying smaller bags, each with a different protein source, goes a long way toward keeping her healthy and happy.

While NutriSource bags are designed to keep food fresher, longer, it’s always wise to invest in tightly lidded food storage containers. Just roll the bag closed, and place it in the container.

With a wide range of protein options available, including turkey, chicken, beef, trout and salmon, as well as novel meats like lamb, boar and duck, your dog will be excited to see what’s on the menu every meal. After all, variety is the spice of life, and rotational feeding is healthier too!

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FOCUS ON CBD

Can CBD help animals with allergies?

by Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS

CBD on its own may not be that helpful for allergies in animals, but a related supplement is effective at getting the problem under control.

Allergies are common in dogs and cats, and often due to certain food ingredients or inhaled antigens. Allergies usually manifest as itchiness and scratching; reddened skin from inflammation, often associated with crusts and scaling; and self-inflicted damage from excessive scratching. Inhalant allergies can cause respiratory symptoms. If the dog or cat has food allergies, then diarrhea, vomiting, straining and frequent stools can result. Can CBD help?

A MULTIMODAL APPROACH Allergies can be hard to treat, so a multimodal approach that combines multiple therapies and hypoallergenic diets yields the best results. My suggestion is to use PEA, CBD, and fish oil at the very least; adding potent antiinflammatory flavonoids as found in quercetin and turmeric will help improve how your dog or cat responds to these supplements.

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CBD MAY STOP ITCHING A recently-reviewed Japanese study found that CBD can reduce itching in dogs with atopy or inhalant allergies.

Yet a few of the animal parents I have spoken with were not sure their animals responded to the CBD given for allergic itching. Skin allergies are complicated problems and some dogs may not respond as well to CBD as others.

EFFECTIVE FOR INHALANT ALLERGIES The study mentioned above measured the benefits of giving CBD to allergic dogs at dosages similar to those used for arthritis or epilepsy (1 mg to 2 mg per pound of body weight twice daily). It found that CBD at those dosages, without THC, can help dogs with diagnosed inhalant allergies. If your dog has this type of allergy, it would be worth trying CBD at that same dosage for several weeks to a month.

PEA AND ALLERGIES There’s another supplement that is related to CBD, but which is not found in the cannabis plant. Called PEA (palmitoylethanolamide), it’s a naturally-occurring molecule found in certain foods, such as eggs, as well in the bodies of all mammals.

D gs Cats

PEA is part of the “entourage effect” that takes place in the body when CBD or other molecules of the cannabis plant are consumed.

Several well-conducted studies have found that, over a month or two of administering PEA twice a day, allergies can decrease in severity, and for some animals may go into complete or partial remission. Even cats with eosinophilic granuloma complex (rodent ulcers) have gone into remission with the use of PEA. Several companies offer PEA in soft chews and capsules. It’s worth considering if you want to get your dog or cat’s allergies under better control.

The dosage as determined from studies is 10 mg/kg twice daily for dogs and 15 mg/kg twice daily for cats (yes, cats receive more than dogs). It works well with CBD, CBG or CBDA, and can be given with fatty acids from fish oils and even medications such as prednisone or antihistamines.

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Greyhounds make wonderful companions. The GREY2K USA Education Fund is the sister organization of GREY2K USA Worldwide. They work to sponsor greyhounds as they are released from closing racetracks, and educate the public about the cruelty of dog racing.

Their mission is to spread the word about these gentle dogs and promote adoption efforts. grey2kusaedu.org

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JoinAnimalHospiceGroup.org

For improved skin health, fish oil can’t be beat. Iceland Pure provides only the highest quality pharmaceutical-grade fish oil products for animals. Sourced from Norway and Iceland, the oils are extracted at cool temperatures to keep the fatty acids intact. All harmful contaminants are separated and removed from the oil. icelandpure.com

Boost her immune system Strong immunity is important during the summer too! NOW® Pets Immune Support is designed to support an animal’s immune system and innate resistance to pathogens, and enhance liver and kidney function. The supplements are ecologically sourced and combined in a recipe with clinically significant results for patients with immune diseases. nowfoods.com/products/pet-health

Mushroom extract for immunity Nature provides us with some amazing healing substances! I'm-Yunity® extract is a standardized ingredient polysaccharopeptide (PSP) that can only be isolated from the Coriolus Versicolor mushroom. This extract supports your animal’s immune health and helps stabilize white blood cell counts. It also enhances energy and appetite. imyunityfordogs.com Animal Wellness

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LEARNING CURVE

o t s n o i t ques f l e s r u o ask y g n i t p o d when a a dog ALD A GRONW

BY ANDRE

e shelter s o h t ll a with sk ll in love a f o adopt, a t u y o s y a e e r ’s o It t bef ppies, bu u p a happy e d r n u a s s n g e o o d ns t e questio s e h t . lf e yours involved e n o y r e v ce for e experien

Sharing your life with a dog is a joy. But it also comes with great responsibility and commitment. Adopting a dog should therefore be a well thought-out decision. Are you ready to make sacrifices to meet your dog’s needs in the years to come? Do you have the time, energy and financial means to provide the care and attention a dog requires in order to thrive? And how do you choose the right dog for your lifestyle? Here are eight questions to ask yourself before bringing a dog into your life.

1

WHY DO I WANT A DOG?

Do you want to add a dog to your household to complete the picture of a perfect family? Or is it because your children have been begging for a puppy? Growing up with a dog can be a wonderful experience for kids, and teaches them to care for another living being.

REMINDER: Only get a dog if you want one too, because the ultimate responsibility will lie with you.

Do you live alone and long for companionship? Dogs provide comfort and make life less lonely, but they too have needs, so be prepared to make your new friend’s well-being a priority.

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2

AM I WILLING TO COMMIT TO MY DOG FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE?

Depending on the health and age of the dog when you adopt him, he may be with you for ten to 15 years or even more. Are you committed to attending to him every day during all that time?

The type of care you need to provide your dog throughout his life will vary during different life stages. Young dogs are active and usually require more exercise than older ones.

REMINDER: Senior dogs may require special care as their health declines.

Are you also prepared to address potential behavior problems? Dogs are individuals with their own personalities. They can display challenging behaviors based on their previous experience, or lack thereof. Their behavior may also change as they get older. Ask yourself if you’re willing and able to dedicate the money, time, and emotional commitment it takes to address any potential future behavior challenges and/or medical issues.

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DO I HAVE THE TIME TO CARE FOR A DOG? Dogs are social animals. It is unnatural for them to be left alone regularly for long periods of time. Consider if you are able to provide your dog with daily physical and mental exercise, training, play time, and socialization. If you work long hours, like to go out a lot, and/or travel frequently, you may not have enough time to dedicate to a dog.

DO I HAVE THE FINANCIAL MEANS TO CARE FOR A DOG?

Caring for a dog throughout her life can be expensive. Costs for healthcare, food, training, grooming, toys, treats, daycare, boarding, and dog walking services add up quickly. Make sure your budget will cover those expenses. It’s wise to have savings set aside for unexpected emergencies or veterinary expenses.

REMINDER: Consider buying pet insurance to help cover unexpected veterinary costs.

IS MY HOUSING SITUATION SUITABLE FOR A DOG?

Many dog breeds do well in apartments as long as they are given plenty of opportunities to go outside and get adequate exercise. But if you live in a rental home, make sure animals are allowed before you adopt a dog. Also, check your lease agreement for any weight or breed limits. If you need to climb several flights of stairs to reach your apartment, this might be a problem for large older dogs or those with injuries who may be unable to walk up and down stairs.

REMINDER: Keep in mind that excessive barking will disturb other tenants.

If you have a home with a yard, make sure it’s securely fenced, hazard-free, and that your dog cannot ingest any poisonous plants.

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IS EVERYONE IN MY FAMILY ON BOARD?

It’s not uncommon for one person in the family to become the main caregiver for the dog. However, if your significant other dislikes dogs, or your kids are scared of them, conflicts are inevitable. In these situations, the dog all too often ends up living in the yard or garage, or given up for re-adoption. Getting a dog should be a decision made by the entire family.

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DO OTHER ANIMALS LIVE IN MY HOUSEHOLD?

Are your existing animals friendly with dogs? Before bringing a new dog home, arrange a meet and greet between her and your existing dogs or cats. Allow for a safe introduction in your home. Remember that you are bringing a stranger into your dog or cat’s territory. Supervise all interactions until you are sure that all your animals get along, before you ever leave them alone together.

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DO I HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS?

Dogs are not born knowing how to navigate the human world. You will need to invest time and energy into teaching your dog the behaviors you want from her.

Depending on her previous experience, you may have to start from the beginning or work towards changing some established habits or emotions. Be patient and give your dog time to get used to you and her new surroundings. If you encounter problems, seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who uses positive reinforcement training methods.

If your answers to these questions are all positive, then you’re ready to adopt a new canine companion! Now it’s time to think about how to find the right dog for you and your lifestyle (see sidebar at right). Enjoy your new best friend!

“

Mixed breeds have a diverse genetic makeup and may display traits from different breeds.

"

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU 1. Puppy, adult, or senior?

• It’s easy to fall in love with a puppy. But keep in mind that puppies are babies that need nearly constant attention and cannot be left alone for extended periods. You should only get a puppy if you have the time and energy to raise a potty-trained, well-socialized, and well-behaved dog. Puppies grow fast. Within just a few months, they enter the adolescent stage, which brings new challenges. Also think about how big and active your puppy will be when he is an adult. Will he be the right fit for your living situation and lifestyle?

• Adult dogs have clearer personality traits so you quickly get an idea of what you are dealing with. Depending on her previous experience, an adult dog might already be house-trained, well-behaved, and socialized. However, the opposite can also be true. Negative experiences, neglect, and lack of training and/or socialization may bring challenges. Many behavior problems can be addressed with positive reinforcement training and behavior modification protocols, but you must be willing to work with your dog.

• Adopting a senior dog is a very kind thing to do, as older animals tend to be overlooked in shelters. Older dogs are usually less active, and this might be a good fit for you if you enjoy going on leisurely strolls and engaging in quieter activities. As dogs age, however, they may suffer from various health conditions. You will need to be prepared to deal with medical concerns and veterinary expenses. Although your senior dog will be with you for a shorter time, you may find it very gratifying to provide a loving home to an aging dog entering the last phase of his life.

2. What breed or mix?

Some people prefer certain dog breeds because they have a certain element of predictability. Whatever breed you’re considering, learn about its characteristics and make sure you pick the right one for you. Can you provide an outlet for the traits your dog was bred for? Getting a working-breed dog, such as a herding or hunting dog, is not a good idea if you prefer a sedentary lifestyle. Likewise, if you are looking for a canine running partner, find a dog that is physically able to keep up with you. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, such as pugs, are not well-suited for vigorous aerobic exercise. Do some research on breed-specific personality traits and health concerns rather than selecting a dog based on looks.

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Summere r a C t a o C Dogs for

As summer begins, many dog parents notice that the warmer weather comes with more shedding! Following some of these key grooming tips will help keep your furry friend’s coat looking fresh. In addition to its preventive benefits, daily athome grooming is a great way for you to bond with your pup.

IMPORTANCE OF BRUSHING AND COMBING Coat health is one of the keys to a happy dog, and a few simple tools are perfect for this purpose. Always start with a brush, as it will stimulate hair and skin follicles while detangling and removing any loose dirt. For light-coated dogs, an Andis Large or Medium Pin Brush is a good tool. The Andis Firm Slicker Brush is great for dogs with heavier or double coats; this sturdy brush can power through to get out unwanted undercoat. If an unruly matt has formed, a Dematting Tool is perfect for tackling even the trickiest tangles.

Combing is the most important part of coat maintenance.

After brushing, it is imperative to comb through and catch any hair the brush may have missed.

KEY MAINTENANCE AREAS — PAW AND SANITARY TRIMS As seasons transition, the skin on a dog’s paw pads becomes especially vulnerable to the elements. Overgrown hair can tangle and create matts between paw pads and, since matted hair does not dry effectively, it leaves dogs cold and wet when it rains or there’s morning dew on the ground. Matted paw pads can also cause discomfort, decrease mobility, and even pose an infection

by Nicole Kallish

risk. Using an adjustable blade clipper, like the Vida, makes for easy work when clipping the paw pads, as well as sanitary areas or eye corners. Keeping hair short and manageable is necessary to keeping a dog’s coat clean and sanitary. Some dogs have eye discharge, and keeping the inside corners of the eyes clear of hair will make it easier for you to keep it clean and stain-free.

REDUCE SHEDDING Warmer weather equals more shedding! Combat the issue with the Andis Deshedding Tool. It comes in both a standard and compact size and can be used on double-coated breeds, as well as terriers, sporting breeds and even goldendoodles that have an undercoat. It’s designed to pull the dead undercoat out without cutting the topcoat. This tool is a game-changer, and you will be amazed at how much dead coat it removes, and how shiny it leaves the topcoat.

PREVENTATIVES Last but not least, make sure you are using some type of flea and tick preventive. Ticks can cause serious infectious diseases in animals and humans, but you can reduce the risk of transmission by quickly removing these pests with the Andis Flea Comb. andis.com Nicole Kallish is the current Manager of Animal Education at Andis Company. She is a Certified Master Groomer, Industry Speaker and Judge, and former Liaison for Groom Team USA. Animal Wellness

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FELINE HEALTH

KEEP YOUR CAT COOL ON SUMMER DAYS Extreme heat and humidity can make your cat uncomfortable and may even be life-threatening.

Here are 9 ways to keep him cool on sizzling summer days.

BY INGRID KING

Summers are getting warmer, even in parts of the world unaccustomed to extreme temperatures. Excessive heat can be as dangerous to cats as it is to dogs and people. Even indoor cats may need protection from the heat, especially during stretches of extreme temperatures and high humidity. Read on for tips on how to keep your cat cool when it’s sweltering outside.

9 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR CAT COMFORTABLE

1

Use air conditioning and fans

If you have air conditioning, don’t turn it off when you’re not home. On really hot days, your cat may become uncomfortable, so adjust the AC settings accordingly to keep him cool when you’re out. This is especially important if he has a health condition that may make it harder for him to regulate his body temperature. A programmable thermostat can make controlling your indoor temperature easy. With some models, you can even control your thermostat via your smartphone.

If you don’t have air conditioning, use fans to cool things off.

Keep ceiling fans running. Get additional tower, box or tabletop fans. Make sure the fans can’t tip over, and don’t leave floor or table-top fans running when you’re not home.

2

Turn off lights and close blinds

Since lights generate additional heat, turn them off in rooms you’re not using. Close blinds or drapes to keep the sun out,

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but make sure your indoor cat still has a way to watch the outside world. Consider treating your windows with a solar film that will keep the heat out and increase the energy efficiency of your home, but won’t block the light and, more importantly, won’t stop your cats from birdwatching!

3

Give her access to cool spots

Basements are usually cooler than upstairs bedrooms.

Hardwood or tile floors are cooler than carpet.

SOME CATS MAY EVEN HANG OUT IN THE BATHTUB OR SINK DURING HOT WEATHER. Cooling blankets or mats in your cat’s favorite area can help provide her with comfortable resting spots. You can even place a well-wrapped ice pack near or under your cat’s bed — never place an ice pack directly on your cat.

4

Open the windows at night

If it cools off enough at night, open the windows to get a cross breeze going. Always make sure that screens are well secured.

5

Brush your cat frequently

It may seem counterintuitive, but a cat’s fur is designed to regulate body temperature and helps protect him from overheating. Don’t shave your cat, thinking it will keep him cool — it’s actually going to have the opposite effect. Cats may also groom themselves more on hot days. They can’t perspire like we do, but their saliva acts like sweat by helping to cool the body as it evaporates. Brush your cat frequently to remove the undercoat and loose hairs.

6

Provide access to fresh, cool water

Make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh, cool water at all times. A fountain is a great way to offer water, since many cats are attracted to running water and may drink more. Periodically add some ice cubes to your cat’s water bowl.

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Make a kitty popsicle

While ice cream and other frozen sweet treats aren’t good for cats, you can easily make feline-friendly popsicles. Simply put your cat’s favorite canned food into a popsicle mold with some water (you can blend the mixture for a smoother texture, depending on your kitty’s preferences), and freeze until solid.

Leave the popsicles out of the freezer for ten to 15 minutes before giving them to your cat.

HEAT STROKE IN CATS Even though cats tend to tolerate heat better than dogs — after all, most cats routinely seek out sun puddles or heaters — they can still suffer from hyperthermia (overheating) and heat stroke.

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Signs of heat stroke in cats include panting or rapid breathing, extreme lethargy, sweaty paws, drooling, bright red gums and tongue, stumbling, vomiting, unresponsiveness and collapse. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate veterinary treatment.

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Use sunscreen for cats

Cats with pink skin and light or white coats are predisposed to sunburn and skin cancers. While windows block some UV rays, they won’t block all damaging rays unless they have been specially treated. Consider a natural sunscreen made for cats.

Never use a human sunscreen product on cats.

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Never leave your cat in a parked car

If you have to travel with your cat, make sure you never leave her in a parked car, not even for a minute.

Temperatures inside a car rise to dangerous levels very quickly, even with the windows cracked.

By using common sense and keeping these tips in mind, you and your cats can enjoy a safe and happy summer together!

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FOOD SENSITIVITIES — what you need to know IN DOGS

by Jean Hofve, DVM

A food sensitivity can manifest in several ways but the solution is simple — switch to a better quality diet.

Does your dog have a “sensitive” stomach?

Does she react badly to certain foods? Is she itchy year-round? Common symptoms of food sensitivity include vomiting, diarrhea, and itchy skin or rash-type eruptions. However, a reaction to food doesn’t necessarily indicate an allergy.

Many dogs have a food sensitivity or intolerance, but relatively few are truly allergic. This article covers the differences, and how to help your dog.

FOOD ALLERGIES A food allergy may cause either gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting and/or diarrhea) or skin symptoms (itchiness, rash, hot spots). A food allergy is an immune reaction to a particular protein. Experts believe that between 10% and 30% of food reactions are allergic in nature.

True food allergies tend to develop over long periods (months to years) in response to foods or treats the dog eats frequently or chronically.

Food allergies are uncommon in dogs under one year of age.

Keep in mind:

Around 70% of corn and 93% of soy grown in the U.S. is genetically modified. While the ultimate and cumulative effects of GM foods are still unknown, protein alteration is, by definition, a given.

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Common Proteins, and therefore Common Allergens, Include: •

Beef

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Chicken

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Dairy

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Wheat

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Corn

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Soy

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Eggs

Skin symptoms of food allergies may include extreme itchiness.

Secondary infections with bacteria and yeast are very common.

Just to complicate things a little more, allergic skin disease is more commonly associated with inhalant allergies (collectively referred to as “atopy”), fleabite hypersensitivity or other causes.

It’s important to note that atopy causes skin symptoms and is often confused with food allergies.

FOOD INTOLERANCE A food intolerance causes symptoms primarily in the gastrointestinal system. A dog experiencing symptoms related to food may be sensitive or intolerant to one main ingredient, or to one or more of the colorings, preservatives, texturizers, palatability enhancers, or other additives. Food intolerances can occur at any age and involve any ingredient.

TREATMENT APPROACHES

1. For food allergies, a full “diet trial” determines the allergy-

causing ingredient/s. The dog is fed one “novel ingredient” or hypoallergenic food for eight to 12 weeks. The choice of ingredient or food depends on what your dog was eating before; all the protein-containing ingredients in her customary diet must be avoided.

Choose a protein that is not included in your dog’s normal food — e.g. venison, rabbit, duck, or kangaroo. Dogs already eating a single-protein food may do fine on different proteins like fish, lamb or turkey, even if they are common in other foods.

Also opt for novel carbohydrate sources (since all carb sources contain some protein), such as sweet potatoes, rice or barley.

K Keep eep in mind:

Note that the word “poultry” may include chicken, turkey, duck, quail or other fowl. “Meat” is usually beef, but may legally include pork, lamb and goat.

It’s best to choose a food with specifically named single ingredients.

diet trial must include only the test food and water A — no exceptions! Just one goof (such as giving a treat or supplement containing beef liver to a beef-allergic dog) could take you back to square one.

Digestive symptoms may resolve quickly, but skin symptoms are far more persistent. If symptoms do clear up, you can then challenge your dog with one ingredient at a

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time to figure out what was causing the problem.

In addition to high quality commercial foods, many people have had great success using raw meat-based and homemade diets. Many animals that are allergic to a particular protein in cooked food do well with the raw version of the same protein.

2. The treatment for food intolerance is simple. Changing the

brand or flavor of food may resolve the problem. Symptoms will diminish or disappear within days. Of course, this may be easier said than done with very sensitive dogs, since they may react to multiple foods. To maximize success, choose good quality natural foods without artificial additives. Don’t forget that your dog still needs variety to prevent worse problems down the road.

With time and persistence, you’ll get to the root of your dog’s food sensitivity!

Preventing problems Variety is key to preventing food allergies and intolerances. Remember, food allergies develop when a dog eats the same thing regularly or for a long time. And dogs that develop an allergy to one food are more likely to eventually react to other foods too.

Protein sources should be changed at least every three months. Make the switch gradually over a week or two, so the bacteria in the colon have time to adjust; too fast a change can cause diarrhea. Stick with high quality natural foods that don’t contain “mystery meat”, synthetic preservatives or other artificial additives. High quality natural foods tend to contain purer ingredients that are less likely to cause an adverse reaction.

Supplements for sensitivities

A food intolerance causes symptoms primarily in the gastrointestinal system.

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•

Digestive enzymes: Can be given with food to help your dog break down proteins more completely, so they are less likely to trigger an immune response.

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Probiotics: Help keep the gut bacteria happy and healthy, and appear to have some anti-inflammatory properties.

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Omega-3 fatty acids (marine): Are naturally anti-inflammatory, as well as important for skin healing. The intestinal tract is lined with a type of skin cell that can also benefit from Omega-3 supplementation.

What’s the best CANCER TREATMENT PLAN for your dog?

Receiving a diagnosis of lymphoma or leukemia for your dog is emotionally challenging and raises many questions. “What are the odds my dog will survive the cancer? Does she have to receive chemotherapy, and will she have side effects? How can I best support her through her cancer treatment? How am I going to afford all of this?” These are all questions to be discussed with your veterinary oncologist, who will advise you on the best course of action with your dog’s optimal welfare in mind. But there are some things you should know that may ease your mind a little.

FINDING THE BEST TREATMENT PLAN Every day counts in the fight against cancer, but too often, time and money are wasted trying to find the right drug to treat your dog’s cancer. ImpriMed has created the most advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology available in helping your veterinary oncologist find the best approach to treating your dog, and ensuring the correct medication is chosen from the outset. This not only saves your dog precious time, but it also helps you afford the correct treatment.

Here’s how it works. Your veterinary oncologist will take a sample of the tumor and send it overnight to ImpriMed. “We will test commonly used anticancer drugs on your dog’s live cancer cells to determine which drugs work best,” says Dr. Sungwon Lim, CEO and Co-Founder of ImpriMed, Inc. “These test results will be combined with information about your dog, and AI will be used to generate a precision report for your veterinarian.”

Within seven days of your dog’s biopsy, your veterinary oncologist will have the test results, and you can both decide on the best plan of action for her treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS FROM CHEMO Once the treatment plan is in place and you and your dog are preparing for chemotherapy, it’s important to note that many of the concerns humans have for their own chemotherapy treatment are not the same for dogs. Yes, even the best cancer treatment plan will have concerns for both humans and animals, but when it comes to side effects from chemotherapy, you can rest assured your dog is unlikely to suffer from the same issues many humans do.

Commonly-experienced stomach problems include vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea, and ileus — a temporary lack of muscle contraction in the digestive tract, often mistaken for constipation. Talk to your veterinary oncologist about the best ways to deal with your dog’s stomach upset.

Knowing you have the best possible treatment plan in place — as well as potential side effect support from your vet — can help sooth both your nerves and your dog’s stomach. A cancer diagnosis is frightening, but with the right technology and treatment plan, your dog has a much better chance of returning to the fluffy light of your life that she is! imprimedicine.com

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WELL-GROOMED

NAIL CARE FOR CATS

by Nadia Ali

If your cat’s claws get too long, it can cause problems ranging from injury to infection.

Regular nail care keeps her comfortable and helps prevent scratches.

P

eople often bite their fingernails — some occasionally, some out of habit, and some obsessively. Cats do the same thing. You may have seen your own kitty chewing away at her claws as if she’s a professional manicurist. There are reasons why she does this — some that are normal and some that aren’t. Either way, it’s a reminder that proper nail care is as important for cats as it is for dogs and people.

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GNAWING HER CLAWS?

Cats will naturally groom their claws. You will see your kitty routinely tugging, chewing, or licking her nails. This behavior is normal if it’s not excessive.

Generally, she is trying to remove debris or the shabby outer layers of her nails.

If your cat seems to chew at her claws obsessively, however, it signals a problem such as an infection or injury.

Note: When a cat’s nails get too long, they can become ingrown, causing pain, difficulty walking, and even infection.

Have a look at all four of your cat’s paws to see if there is any bleeding, swelling or other symptoms of an issue, and take her to the vet to get to the root of the problem.

Even if all is normal, it’s still important to make regular nail care a part of your cat’s health regimen. This includes clipping her nails, when needed, and providing her with places to scratch.

TIPS ON CLIPPING

If your cat’s nails get too long, they can snag on carpeting or upholstery when she’s walking, potentially causing injury. Too-long claws also mean you’re more apt to get scratched or punctured when you’re playing with your cat, or even while she’s sitting on your lap. These are all signs that her claws need clipping.

…it’s best to get your kitty into the routine of having her nails clipped every two weeks or so.

More tips to keep in mind • •

•

The Humane Society recommends clipping your cat’s nails every few weeks.

Veterinarian Dr. Amy Flowers agrees, saying that it’s best to get your kitty into the routine of having her nails clipped every two weeks or so.

•

The hardest part of clipping your cat’s nails is to get her to sit still. It’s best to have someone hold her while you clip, to avoid accidents.

•

Note: Always use a nail clipper specifically designed for cats — never use

your own or those made for dogs.

Feline nail clippers help you better see what you’re doing, and the longer pliertype handles work well for quick snips.

Here's how to do it: 1. Wrap your cat in a towel or blanket, leaving out the one paw you are about to clip.

2. Gently press the paw pad to extend the nails.

3. Locate the quick and move the clipper below that area. You need only clip the tip of the nail; cutting the quick causes pain and bleeding.

4. Position the clippers perpendicular to the nail so you are cutting it at a slant.

A flush cut is likely to split or splinter the nail.

Note: If your cat growls or hisses, it can create pressure to get the job done fast. Be patient and don’t rush. If you are only able to clip a few nails at a time, that’s fine. Try again another day.

Keeping tabs on your cat’s nail health, and clipping them when they get too long, means she’ll be more comfortable, your household furnishings will be in better shape, and you’ll be less likely to get scratched!

If you or kitty are in a bad mood, choose another time to clip her claws.

Don’t rush — if you hurry to get the job done, you might cut into the quick of one or more of her nails.

Don’t get angry if your cat struggles or is uncooperative.

Staying calm and patient is key.

Don’t insist on trimming all your cat’s nails at once. Doing them over the course of a few days is okay.

If you find you just can’t clip your cat’s nails yourself, ask your vet or groomer to do it.

A natural mani You can also help your cat look after her own nails by providing appropriate scratching surfaces.

Dr. Carlo Siracusa, clinical assistant professor of behavior medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, suggests multiple scratching posts.

“I recommend having several types of scratching posts available, horizontal and vertical, as well as different materials, to keep the cat interested.”

Turn to page 22 for more details on why cats need to scratch — the reasons are several and involve more than their nails!

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Pain-free Diabetes Testing forDogs and Cats This breakthrough technology means you no longer have to use a painful lancet to draw blood samples from your diabetic dog or cat.

If you have a dog or cat with diabetes, you know that poking her with a lancet to get blood for a glucose sample hurts you almost as much as it does her. No one wants to cause their animal pain, especially when the goal is simply to help them live healthy, happy lives.

A COLLABORATION IS BORN PetTest Genteel is quite literally the breakthrough technology diabetic dog and cat parents have been waiting for.

“It’s an amazing product,” says Steven Thuss, president and COO of PetTest. “I was walking the floor of a trade show and noticed Dr. Chris Jacobs in his Genteel booth.” Dr. Jacobs is the CEO and Chief Research Engineer for Genteel, a diabetes blood drawing device originally designed for pediatric patients. “He walked over, introduced himself, and a collaboration was born.

Dr. Jacobs was already very familiar with PetTest, so it wasn’t a tough sell. We knew this was a game-changer for our pets.”

HOW IT WORKS The PetTest Genteel Lancing Device allows those with diabetic dogs or cats to painlessly check their animals’ blood sugar, using vacuum and shallow depth control. Each device comes with six different sizes of contact tips, ten sample Butterfly Touch lancets, and ten PetTest lancets.

The product is also compatible with most square shaft lancets on the market.

Thanks to this product, squeezing your dog or cat’s ear, lip, or leg to scrounge up enough blood for a sample is now a thing of the past.

PetTest Genteel makes the glu- cose testing process much less stressful than it used to be, for both animals and their human parents.

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PETTEST’S MOTIVATION PetTest’s mission is to bring quality, affordable products to the diabetic animal market, making it easier to give your dog or cat the life he deserves.

“Knowing we are making a difference in the lives of diabetic pets worldwide is what makes us happy to go into work every day,” Steven says. “We are also proud of our website, where people can get all the necessary supplies needed to maintain their diabetic pet’s health.”

Those with diabetic pets will also find a rich resource of blogs on the site, answering questions that they might not even know they had about their dog or cat’s health.

“We’re always looking for high quality, innovative ways to lessen the blow of a diabetes diagnosis,” Steven says. “If our products can help with that, we’re happy.”

TWO NEW

A

audiobooks FOR animal lovers

Looking for books to add to your “listening list” this summer? Here are two that every animal lover will enjoy.

udiobooks are the new paperbacks — especially if you’re a busy animal parent. There’s nothing more enjoyable than throwing in earbuds and heading out to walk your pup while listening to a good book. Sure, relaxing in the backyard with a hardcover is wonderful, but audiobooks let you multi-task when time is short. Here are two new titles to add to your must-listen list.

1

INSIDE ANIMAL HEARTS AND MINDS: BEARS THAT COUNT, GOATS THAT SURF, AND OTHER TRUE STORIES OF ANIMAL INTELLIGENCE AND EMOTION

As Charles Darwin suggested back in the 19th century, the differences between animals and humans are of degree and not of kind. Not long ago, ethologists denied that animals had emotions or true intelligence. Now, we know that magpies mourn as they cover their departed with greenery, female whales travel thousands of miles for annual reunions with their gal pals, seals navigate by the stars, and crows slide down snowy rooftops for fun.

With engaging text, photographs, and infographics, Inside Animal Hearts and Minds showcases fascinating and heartwarming examples of animal emotion and cognition that will foster wonder and empathy. Learn about an orangutan who does “macramé”, monkeys that understand the concept of money, and rats that choose friendship over food.

Even language, math, and logic are no longer exclusive to humans. Prairie dogs

have their own complex vocabularies to describe human intruders, while bears, lemurs, parrots, and other animals demonstrate numerical cognition.

In a world where a growing body of scientific research is closing the gap between the human and non-human, Inside Animal Hearts and Minds invites us to change the way we view animals, the world, and our place in it.

2

WHEN ANIMALS RESCUE: AMAZING TRUE STORIES ABOUT HEROIC AND HELPFUL CREATURES What do stories about humpback whales protecting a biologist from a shark, or a pride of lions rescuing a girl from kidnappers tell us about animal nature? And what might they suggest about our own human nature?

Until a few decades ago, only a few animals were reported to behave empathetically and altruistically.

More recently, the list of species that has been observed behaving in compassionate, helpful, and caring ways has grown exponentially, ranging from rats to elephants.

When Animals Rescue presents dozens of astonishing and heart-warming stories about animals, such as chickens, horses, dolphins, and wolves, who engage in acts of helpful kindness. During a time in history when human empathy is decreasing, our knowledge about animal empathy is growing. These true tales of heroism, kindness, and compassion suggest we have far more in common with other animals than we once believed, and suggest that what’s best about human nature just might be our animal natures. https://posthypnoticpress.com/

MORE INFO Both these books are written by Belinda Recio and narrated by awardwinning actress and animal advocate Hayden Panettiere. They’re available on Audible at: https://adbl.co/34gh1B7 (Inside Animal Hearts and Minds)

ttps://adbl. h co/3ukCIL3 (When Animals Rescue)

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MOBILITY MATTERS

Arthritic dogs benefit from AT-HOME

PHYSICAL THERAPY

by Tonya Wilhelm

These simple at-home physical therapy exercises, when done under the guidance of a veterinarian well-versed in canine rehab, can help your arthritic dog move more easily and comfortably.

If your dog is suffering from arthritis, or just doesn't seem as spry as he once was, at-home physical therapy exercises can be a nice addition to his care. The goals of at-home physical therapy are to improve flexibility, movement, muscle mass, body awareness, and, as a bonus, your relationship with your dog.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN Before starting any home exercise program with your dog, it's important for him to have a full physical with his veterinarian.

Pointer: After he gets the all-clear, set up an

evaluation with a veterinarian who specializes in canine rehabilitation.

This evaluation will be very different from the one he receives from his primary doctor. Veterinarians who specialize in canine rehabilitation will assess your dog. “A thorough rehabilitation examination should include aspects that

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a regular 'physical' doesn’t, including gait analysis, goniometry (measurements of joint range of motion), and Gulick measurements (circumferential evaluation of muscle mass),” says veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Coates.

This will be your dog's starting point and, throughout his physical therapy, the rehab vet will continue to take his measurements to check on his progress and make any needed adjustments to his at-home exercises.

TAKE IT SLOWLY The next step is to slowly introduce your dog to one or two of his recommended at-home exercises. It's important to only do a few repetitions of an exercise, take a break, and maybe try another set later in the day.

Pointer: Never force your dog to do something if he seems stressed or in pain.

When possible, video record your sessions and show the veterinarian for tips and guidance.

4 AT-HOME CANINE REHABILITATION EXERCISES 1.

Canine massage is a great way to start your dog's exercises. You don't have to be a certified therapist to provide him with a valuable massage. Ask your dog to lie down, preferably on her side. Start at the top of her head and gently stroke her forehead. As you do so, gently add light pressure and turn your strokes into more circular motions. Move your hands around his forehead, base of the neck, ears, etc. Continue over his entire body. “Giving your dog a gentle massage, especially before exercise, aids in improving circulation and is calming and enjoyable for her,” says veterinarian Dr. Jamie Whittenburg. “Both the painful joints and the muscles can be gently massaged with your hand.

Any indication that the massage is causing pain or discomfort to the dog is a sign to stop.”

2.

Taking your dog for walks and allowing him to sniff his world is one of the best things you can do for both his mental and physical health. Ensure that his harness allows him full range of motion of his front and back legs, and does not put any pressure on his neck or spine.

“Walking is one of my favorite exercises to recommend for arthritic dogs,” says Dr. Whittenburg. “The important thing to remember is that you need to control the concussive force on the joints. Walking is a lowimpact activity, but I suggest keeping arthritic dogs on soft surfaces, such as grass. If sand is available, that is even better as it is soft on the joints but provides a great muscle-building workout. Dogs should never be forced to walk farther or longer than they are comfortable.”

Pointer: “Stopping to sniff things is good for both strengthening and improving flexibility of the neck and back."

3.

Cavalettis are another easy exercise you can do with your arthritic dog. It involves poles, such as broomsticks, placed on the ground for your dog to walk over. This exercise is a great way to work on your dog's proprioception (body awareness), range of motion, coordination, and flexibility.

Simply place poles in a row. The distance will depend on your dog's natural gait. With a treat, or verbal encouragement, ask your dog to walk over the poles. In the beginning, she is likely to knock the poles with her foot. She is learning where her feet are in space. As she gets the hang of it, she should start lifting up her feet.

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Pointer: You are only looking for a slight height, not a jump!

You can change the Cavaletti challenge by placing the poles on towels or crushed cans to enhance their height.

It is incredibly important to ensure that if your dog hits a pole with her foot, the pole moves off and is not stationary.

4.

Pivoting is a great hind-end awareness exercise in which your dog puts his front two paws on an object, often called a perch, as his back feet move him and rotate around the object. This conditioning exercise helps build strength and muscle tone. “Having strong muscles is essential to easing the pain of arthritis,” explains Dr. Whittenburg. “Dogs can increase their muscle tone without further damaging their joints with this simple exercises” •

•

First, place a flat object, such as a book, inside a cotton or flannel pillowcase. Fold the pillowcase around the book and place it on the floor. Teach your dog “two paws up”, by having the book between you and your dog. With a treat to his nose, lure him up and onto the book with his front feet.

Reward and praise. Once he's mastered this new trick, it's time to teach a pivot.

With the book between you and your dog, ask him for his “two paws up” behavior. Reward this step.

Move a few inches to the right of the book, closer to your dog. Look for your dog to move his feet to his right, and reward him when he makes any attempt.

Pointer: The reason your dog will want to move to his right is to see you better and move away from your body.

Continue this process, rewarding any slight attempts to move his feet. If he gets off the book, simply lure him back up and reward him. Do a few repetitions then take steps to your left.

•

As your dog begins to master this behavior, you can change up the difficulty level by having a slightly higher perch, or one that has some instability such as a pillow or balance disc.

Done under the guidance of a veterinarian who specializes in rehab for dogs, these at-home physical therapy exercises are a great way to improve your arthritic canine companion’s strength and mobility. They are also a wonderful way to enrich his life during his twilight years.

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Further tips and suggestions •

As you work with your dog, it's important to watch her closely and not ignore what she's telling you. If it seems she doesn't want to do something, or is in pain, stop.

Take a closer look at what you are trying to accomplish. Can it be broken down into easier steps? When in doubt, ask your veterinarian for assistance.

•

Surfaces matter. Make sure your dog always has a stable surface — carpet, yoga mats, grass, sand, are all great options. Slick floors are not ideal and can cause more harm than good.

•

Keep sessions short and sweet. Only do a few exercises and a few repetitions each or every other day. If your dog seems more lethargic or stiff the day after, you likely overdid it. Go slow and build gradually — no weekend warriors!

AW MARKETPLACE

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

CLASSIFIEDS Animal Communicators CAROL SCHULTZ — Animal Communicator/ Intuitive Healing Support. Interactive, compassionate, practical, and insightful Consultations and Energy Balancing for all species.

Assistance with emotional, behavioral, physical, end of life, and animals of spirit. Classes & mentoring available. (815) 531-2850 www.carolschultz.com SHIRLEY SCOTT — Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/behavior/ health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. (541) 577-3051, sscott@shirley-scott.com, www.shirley-scott.com

Contact us to order your classified ad 1-866-764-1212 or classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Associations MORRIS ANIMAL FOUNDATION — We are a global leader in supporting studies to find solutions to serious health threats to animals. Since our founding, we’ve invested more than $136 million in 2,780+ studies that have improved the health and quality of life for dogs, cats, horses, and wildlife around the world. We believe animals make the world a better place. Animals are our family members, our companions, and our inspiration.

Whether we work on staff, serve as board members, or volunteer as scientific advisers, each of us strives every day to make the world a brighter place for animals — and those who love them. www.morrisanimalfoundation.org

Schools & Training TALLGRASS ANIMAL ACUPRESSURE RESOURCES — The Pioneers in Animal Acupressure Resources since 1990. Tallgrass has created animal acupressure books, manuals, meridian charts, videos, acupoint apps, and extensive Home-Study and Hands-On workshops to provide animal guardians, trainers, and healthcare practitioners access to the powerful healing modality of Animal Acupressure. www.animalacupressure.com

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NEWSWORTHY

Animal Parents Generation Generation?

differ from

How do

to

A new survey of Boomers, Millennials, Gen Xers and Gen Zers reveals interesting statistics about how animal parenting varies among different generations.

Do you look after your dog or cat differently than your parents or grandparents did?

If so, you’re not alone! There are some major differences in how various generations parent their dogs and cats. A new survey conducted by Trusted Housesitters revealed the following interesting results: • Millennials and Gen Zers would rather give up their guilty pleasures (e.g. social media, alcohol, coffee, sleeping in, and favorite TV shows) than leave their dogs or cats in a kennel for a week; 38% of Gen Zers and 33% of Millennials would rather give up alcohol for a month, while 37% of Gen Zers and 30% of Millennials said they’d be willing to give up caffeine for a week.

• Gen Zers and Millennials are twice as likely as Gen Xers and Boomers to use their animals as an excuse to avoid social gatherings with friends.

• Gen Zers and Millennials are more likely to play music to calm their animals, whereas Gen Xers and Boomers are more apt to turn on the TV. • After spending two pandemic years at home, seeing their animals’ every move, nearly 33% of Millennial dog and cat parents have taken to GPS/activity collar devices to track their fur babies as they head back to the office and the social scene.

• 32% of Gen Zers and 31% of Millennials would rather wake up at 5 am every day than keep their dogs in an overnight kennel.

• Almost 30% of Gen Zers and 32% of Millennials would rather give up Instagram and TikTok for a week than keep their animals in an overnight kennel.

Do you align with the majority of animal parents from your own generation? trustedhousesitters.com

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