V6I6 (Dec/Jan 2004-05)

animal 40

wellness educating your passion

stress & boredom busters

Is your water SAFE for them to drink?

Tasty treat

RECIPES ANESTHESIA for seniors – YES or NO? Getting cats

OFF INSULIN $4.95 USA/$5.95 Canada

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6

Jamie Lynn DiScala How fate led the Sopranos star to Hailey www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

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contents 30

24

features 14 Babysitting Bowser 24 Getting cats off Don't like leaving him home alone? Thanks to pet sitters and doggy daycares, you no longer have to

20 How animal-assisted therapy helped Tomas walk tall

Bringing children and animals together in a setting of trust and love

46

65

insulin!

How diet can affect diabetes

28 Jamie Lynn DiScala

and her rescue, Hailey Why the Sopranos star believes fate brought them together

62 Legal beagle

18 Dr. Martin Goldstein 68 Animal passages 46 Animal

communication

animal wellness

from my dog

Hogan's heroic attitude sets a valuable example for his guardian

56 Water, water

everywhere...but is it good for him to drink?

Pure drinking water is as important to Fido's health as it is to yours

columns 10 Yakkity yak

4

48 Ten lessons I learned

70 The chat room

72 Book reviews 82 The tail end

Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

28

features

Special Holiday Section

30 40 ways to bond

60 The Pet Fund...

over the holidays

helping animal guardians in need

Surefire stress & boredom busters

Why this organization is footing vet bills

34 Holiday gift ideas

65 More herbs and fewer

38 Easy holiday recipes

drugs is the natural solution for horses

your animals (and family) will love

Herbal remedies for equine athletes

Tasty treats for any time of year

departments 6 8

Editorial Pony express

42 Product picks

51 Wellness

resource guide

55 What’s gnu?

73 Ad spots 80 Classifieds 81 Events calendar

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2004. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: November, 2004

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A bonding adventure Issue 6

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dana Cox SENIOR EDITOR Ann Brightman GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yvonne Hollandy PHOTOGRAPHY Christopher Ameruoso ILLUSTRATION Leanne Rosborough COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon Callahan Dee Clair Loryhl Davis Robert Ferber, Esq. Martin Goldstein, DVM Sharis Khachatourian B.B. King Karen Leslie Susan Marino Shawn Messonnier, DVM Kim Ogden-Avrutik, Dr.P.H. Paul Owens Katy Rosolowski Lida Sideris ADMINISTRATION & SALES PRESIDENT/C.E.O. Tim Hockley CLIENT SERVICES Lesia Wright CIRCULATION AND INFORMATION SERVICES

Vaughan King ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Guinevere Martin MARKETING & SALES ASSOCIATE Jeremey Slotegraaf SUBMISSIONS: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9H 2L2. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi.

We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received. Email your articles to: submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER: Tim Hockley (866) 764-1212 TIM@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM EASTERN REGIONAL MANAGER: Lesley Nicholson (866) 764-1212 LESLEY@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM WESTERN REGIONAL MANAGER: Becky Starr (213) 793-1867 BECKY@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM LOS ANGELES REGION: Randee Goldman (310) 745-4272 RANDEE@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM TORONTO REGION: Anne Gibson (416) 504-4310 AGIBSON@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Lesia Wright CLASSIFIED@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM

TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue in the U.S. $19.95 and Canada is $24.95 including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Foreign orders U.S. $34.95. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9H 2L2 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.

Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

Printed in Canada

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

6

animal wellness

Then fate jumped in. Well, actually it strolled across the road just ahead of me. The ancient golden retriever didn’t even bother to look before he crossed. In that instant, I knew I would be late for my meeting. I pulled the car onto a side street and caught up with the dog. He wore a city tag with the current year. Good sign. All I had to do was get him into the car and call the number on the tag.

edito r i a l

After “introducing” myself, I reached for his collar and gently tried to pull him in the direction of my car. With a yelp of displeasure, he wrestled the collar out of my hand and quickened his pace to a walk. I decided to follow, hoping I would see someone along the way who could help. After three blocks of wandering aimlessly and stopping to sniff the grass and cedars, the dog seemed no closer to getting home than I was getting to work. I gave up worrying about everything else and decided to concentrate on my new canine buddy.

Twenty minutes later, I tried a new tactic. I leaned down and said to the retriever, “It’s really time to go home.” I tried to project a picture of him lying on a cozy dog bed. He shot me a look and ambled off across a lawn in the opposite direction. Finally, several lawns later, he approached a house with a red door and a cat perched on the front railing. He made his way up the steps and then turned to me and wagged his tail. I knocked on the door and a woman opened it. While the dog sauntered past her, she explained that “Winston” must have escaped earlier when she put out the garbage.

She thanked me for helping him find his way home.

As I walked back to my car, I thought about how Winston’s little adventure had helped me escape my stress for a while. Perhaps he knew how much I needed to wander aimlessly and smell the cedars. It was a great human/animal bonding experience.

And I couldn’t help but think of our feature article in this issue – “40 ways to bond over the holidays”. I had just experienced number 2 and I felt great.

With the stress of the season upon us, I hope you’ll take some extra time to bond with your animal companion. We’ve given you 40 ideas to start, but I’m sure you can think of many more. One thing you can be sure of – it will do you both a world of good.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season,

Our Cover: Actor Jamie Lynn DiScala rescued Hailey at the Animal Wellness Expo in June. Of the one-year-old, Rottweiler mix, Jamie Lynn says, "She is the most loving, caring being, and we feel so blessed to have found her."

Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

Volume 6

Most everyone would agree that we live in a pretty busy world these days. Balancing a deadline-driven job, family and home is something I still haven’t got a handle on, despite almost two decades of practice. So it was with the usual flurry that I left for work one morning last week. I had just enough time to make it to the office for my meeting, if I made most of the green lights.

Guelph, ON, Canada N1H 6T9

or n ria 64 a erin 0-88 t Ve -51 ! r u 0 yo -80 rder k l 1 wellness As alanimal 7 oo t C

pony express dear animal wellness magazine . . .

I was compelled to write in response to one of your reader’s letters, and the accompanying Editor’s Note regarding the term “animal guardian” (Volume 6, Issue 4). Your reader mentioned the “current shift toward a more progressive, enlightened way of thinking and behaving” towards animals, and that this shift is reflected in the use of the term “guardian” instead of “owner” when referring to companion animals.

Many cities, including Amherst, MA, San Francisco, CA, Sherwood, AR, Boulder, CO, and the state of Rhode Island, have amended their legal codes to recognize individuals as guardians of their companion animals. This change in language does not affect the legal standing of animals, but it is a step towards recognizing animal companions as individual beings, not as commodities, objects, property or things. It is hoped that this change will help promote a lifelong commitment to companion animals, thereby reducing the number of animals that are neglected and/or abandoned each year.

Terri Cordrey, Berkeley, CA

Fashionable.

Functional.

Comfortable.

Editor’s Note: Although there’s still a long way to go, the number of communities that are beginning to embrace the concept of “guardian” vs. “owner” is an encouraging sign that attitudes are changing.

Mary Ultz, via e-mail

I am so glad to see your magazine advertising dog boots. I have a Siberian husky who has a problem with the large pad on each back paw, due to a zinc deficiency. She wears these booties (the all-weather type) whenever she is doing city street walking or blacktop walking.

They are terrific.

Mary Gadbois, East Lyme, CT

Editor’s Note: And especially important to keep in mind with another winter on the way!

I share Dr. Goldstein’s feelings on Rimadyl (Volume 6, Issue 4). My five-year-old Lab, Owen, got sick, was throwing up and seemed to be aching. The vet gave him Rimadyl. He got a lot worse so I took him back and the vet said I would have to think about putting him to sleep because he was in renal failure. I was distraught.

My husband and I refused to let Owen die so we drove him to San Diego from L.A. to find a place that would give him dialysis.

He had dialysis three times over ten days.

Today, eight months later, he is fit, healthy and totally back to how he was.

Dogs do have a chance once they are in renal failure. People don’t understand spending $8,000 to save a pet, but when I got Owen I promised him I would always take care of him. I love that dog.

Lisa Eisler, Los Angeles, CA

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Editor’s Note: Thanks for sharing your story, especially as it demonstrates the importance of seeking a second opinion when necessary.

I agree whole heartedly with the concept that we over-vaccinate. So, here’s my question:

Editor’s Note: Like death and taxes, you can’t get away from rabies vaccines, at least for now, but some regions only require vaccination every three years rather than annually. Find out what the exact legislation is in your area before agreeing to a yearly shot. In addition, many states accept medical certificates from veterinarians that show an animal is ill or has had an adverse reaction to a vaccine. As for titer tests, they’re a worthwhile investment when you consider the problems that can arise from over-vaccination, which can incur even greater costs further down the road. And titer tests showing immunity may help support medical exemption certificates.

Back in March, Dr. Marty responded to a question I had about one of my dogs (he’d lost weight and always had loose stools). I thought he might be interested in the results of my experience with Acetylator, one of the products he recommended. Not only did it help my dog gain back the weight he had lost and firm up his stools, it also curtailed his coprophagia! I used the Acetylator for a month. After two months of not using it, the coprophagia reappeared so I immediately started him back on the Acetylator, again at 2/3 the recommended dose, and then reduced it to only once a day, alternating with Prozyme for the other meal.

The coprophagia disappeared again and has stayed gone for over three months. I can’t tell you how happy I am!

Barbara Magram, via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Isn’t it amazing how an animal’s health can turn around with the administration of holistic remedies? We’ve passed your results on to Dr. Marty.

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If it’s not a Hug-A-Dog®, it’s just a harness.

8

what do you do when the law requires annual vaccinations against rabies? That is the most common vaccination required by law, but who can afford to have titer tests done?

animal wellness

Address your letters to Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to US:

CAN:

animal wellness

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Who says guardian angels have to be human? Earlier this year, a husky/Australian shepherd cross named Dante prevented a troubled 44-year-old man from going on an alleged shooting spree in the Beaches area of Toronto. James Paul Stanson, his vehicle full of weapons, was sidetracked by the friendly and playful dog who was out for a walk with his guardian, Kristina Kyser. Stanson later told police that it was his encounter with Dante that made him think twice about going on a killing rampage. On September 12, The Humane Society of Canada presented the dog with a special Animal Heroes Award.

Elvis and Cisco, two other dogs present at the time, also received awards.

Photo: Vanessa McMain © 2004

Dante saves the day

Dante proudly displays his award.

The white lions of Sanbona No, they’re not albinos. White lions are a genetic rarity native to Timbavati in South Africa. Because of their unusual appearance, they were decimated by illegal hunting; there are now only 100 left, none of which live wild. At the 54,000-hectare Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, however, conservationist Dr. Gaston Savoi and others are working to bring the white lion back from the brink of extinction. Early this summer, a white lioness and her three cubs, rescued from captivity by the Global White Lion Protection Trust, arrived at the reserve where they joined an existing white lion family.

The goal is to re-introduce the lions to their native habitat and re-establish a wild pride.

DNA test may fight elephant poaching Despite a 15-year international ban, the illegal ivory trade is thriving, resulting in the deaths of over 4,000 elephants every year. Now the good news.

Conservationists say that a new genetic test that can pinpoint the geographic origins of ivory could help combat elephant poaching. The test can indicate which populations of elephants the ivory is coming from, and is already being used to trace the origins of a cache of ivory seized in Singapore in 2002.

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animal wellness

Arnold bans foie gras Many animal lovers were jubilant when Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed a bill outlawing the force-feeding of ducks and geese to produce foie gras, and prohibiting its sale in California. This is the firstever such legislation in the U.S., but the ban won’t take effect until 2012, and even then, foie gras will only be prohibited if it was produced by inhumane methods within the state itself. While it’s definitely a step in the right direction, there’s still a long way to go before ducks and geese are adequately protected from this cruel practice.

Yakkity Yak

Gala celebrates wilderness

Photo: Patricia Fisher

Robert Redford was one of 400 conservation activists, legislators and celebrities who attended a gala dinner at the National Press Club in Washington on September 19 to mark the 40th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. A lifelong conservation advocate, Redford talked about the value of America’s wild treasures, such as Yosemite, Yellowstone and the Sierras. Awards were handed out to policy-makers and activists who helped make the Wilderness Act a reality and who have since made significant contributions to conservation. To date, the Act has protected 106 million acres of wilderness.

Robert Redford (center) joins Hon. Stewart Udall and Rep. John Dingell at the 40th anniversary Wilderness Act gala.

Incredible journey, part ll

He's all ears

When Gerti and Paul Lole had their golden retriever puppy, Rieke, stolen from their yard in Germany nine years ago, they launched a massive search, posting notices and ads and combing shelters as far afield as Holland. Sadly, there was no sign of Rieke and the couple gave up in despair. Much to everyone’s amazement, Rieke recently turned up at a shelter in Berlin, 600 miles away, where vets believe he was taken after being used for breeding.

He has since been re-united with the Loles, and is reported to be enjoying his retirement.

Ananova

If you think your dog has long ears, think again. The world record for the longest canine ears recently went to Jack, a basset hound whose ears are 13" long. After his guardian, Carsten Baus of Germany, read an article stating that the world's longest canine ears were 11.6", he measured Jack's and was amazed to find they beat the record.

Carsten has since been contacted by the Guiness Book of World Records and has also had Jack's ears insured for $55,000.

Ananova

A tribute to guardianship On Saturday, September 18, Animal Wellness Magazine publisher Tim Hockley and editor-in-chief Dana Cox were on hand at the Natural Pet Fair in New York to receive a Companion Animal Award. Our founders were in good company. Other recipients who are making a difference in the lives of animals included: Back row (left to right): Grant Aleksander (The Guiding Light), Sherry Ramsey (Pres. Animal Law Council, NJ Bar Assoc.), Dr. Martin Goldstein, Middle row: Olivia Lane (Lantern Books), Dana Cox, author Anitra Frazier, Steve Musso (ASPCA), Front row: Julia Szabo (NY Post), actor Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Jane Hoffman (Mayors Alliance NYC), Valerie Sicignano (event producer). animal wellness

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Yakkity Yak European ban makes plastic toys safer Do you worry about giving PVC toys to your animal?

You’ll be interested to know that the European Union has agreed to phase out six toxic chemicals used as plastic softeners in children’s PVC toys.

Known as phthalates, the chemicals can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive system in both humans and animals. The EU recommends a wholesale ban of three of the phthalates, although the other three will only be removed from toys for children under three. So far, no such legislation exists on this side of the Atlantic, for children or animals, but hopefully the day will come when all PVC toys are free of these harmful substances.

Keeping wild horses wild

China uses tourism to help panda

A century ago, more than two million wild horses roamed America’s ranges. Today, fewer than 32,000 remain, outnumbered by cattle by about 150 to one. Despite their dwindling numbers, and in violation of the Wild Free-Roaming Horse & Burro Act, which protects wild horses as “living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West,” the cattle industry is putting pressure on the government to remove more horses for grazing land. By February of 2005, the government plans to capture over 9,000 horses and place them in holding facilities at a cost to taxpayers of $5,000 per animal. You can protest by signing the American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign petition at www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/166841148.

In an effort to save China’s endangered giant panda, the government of Baoxing County in southwestern Sichuan Province has unveiled a new plan that combines panda preservation with tourism. The new Baoxing Jiajin Mountain Giant Panda Ecological Tourism Zone will cover 463 square miles and encompasses the Fengtongzhai Nature Reserve, which is home to about 10 percent of the world’s wild panda population. The zone will feature a state forest and safari park with a panda observation station, and is expected to attract thousands of visitors.

The natural solution to pet first-aid

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animal wellness

A seven-year-old Pomeranian was viciously attacked by a Great Dane and left a significant wound requiring many stitches to close. Despite two weeks of treatment with antibiotics, gangrene set in. The dog was then referred to Megan Bamford, DVM of Sun Valley, California for treatment. With antibiotic treatment failing, she began treating the wound with Pet Solution RX, spraying the wound four times a day and allowing it to air dry. Within 24 hours, healing was observed. One week later, after continued Pet Solution RX treatment, the wound was completely closed.

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Babysitting Bowser Don’t like leaving him home alone?

Thanks to pet sitters and doggy daycares, you no longer have to.

Photo: Robin Junkin

by Ann Brightman

W

ith the festive season fast approaching, you may be thinking of traveling to visit loved ones. But what will you do with your animal companion if you can’t take him along? It’s the quandary Carmel and her husband found themselves in when they got an invitation to spend Christmas with relatives in another state.

“We really wanted to go, but didn’t know what to do about our dog and cat,” she says. “We didn’t want to board them, and our friends were busy with holiday plans of their own.” Carmel was thinking seriously of canceling the trip, when a work colleague suggested she hire a pet sitter. “The idea of having a professional come into the house to look after our babies, even stay overnight if we wanted, appealed to us. We decided to go for it.”

Carmel and her husband aren’t alone. According to Pet Sitters

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animal wellness

International (PSI), whose membership has grown to 6,600 pet sitting businesses worldwide since its inception ten years ago, 25 percent of animal guardians hire a pet sitter when traveling, whether on vacation or business. An additional number use sitters to care for their animals while they’re at work, especially if they have to commute or work long hours.

“The typical pet sitting client is married without children,” says Don Woods of PSI. “They often have to work overtime and go on business trips.” As well, rising crime rates leave many people anxious about leaving their companions alone; having a trustworthy individual who can check on the animal several times a day, or even move into the house when they have to be away, gives them peace of mind.

Finding a pet sitter in your area is as easy as visiting the PSI website at www.petsit.com and entering your zip or postal

code. But what if the thought of leaving your animal in the care of a stranger makes you nervous? Here’s how to ensure you get someone who will give your companion’s welfare top priority:

• Make sure the pet sitter is bonded and insured.

• Meet with the sitter face-to-face before hiring her (over 90 percent of pet sitters are female). “We highly recommend a preliminary consultation,” says Don. “It gives you and your animal a chance to get acquainted and comfortable with the sitter, and also lets you review exactly what you want her to do. There should be a strong mutual sense of trust, honesty and agreement.”

• Find out what services the sitter offers, as this varies between individuals. Basic care includes feeding, walking and playing, and making the house look lived-in by collecting mail and adjusting blinds and curtains. Some sitters will provide extra services such as overnight stays or in-home boarding, taking animals to vet appointments, administering medication, and even grooming and training. “It can cover the whole gamut,” says Don.

• Find how much the sitter charges. “The national average is approximately $14.50 per visit, with the length of an average visit being 36 minutes,” says Don. “This will vary depending on what needs to be done for the animal, and how many visits the sitter needs to make. Some may provide a discount for multiple visits.” Costs will also fluctuate depending on where you live. “Rates will be higher in New York City than in a town in North Carolina, for example.”

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• Be sure to provide the sitter with your contact information, medical details about your animal, the number and location of your vet, and clear instructions about what you want her to do. “Communication is essential,” stresses Don.

Daycare goes to the dogs Like pet sitting businesses, dog daycare centers are springing up everywhere, and for basically the same reasons. “Most of our clients are people who work all day,” says Tracey Dekeyser, owner of Rompin’ Rover in Cobourg, Ontario. “They’d rather bring their dogs here to have fun than leave them at home alone.”

Unlike pet sitting, where your animal is cared for in your own home, a daycare requires you to bring your dog to the center, where he will interact with lots of other canines. It’s an ideal situation for friendly, outgoing dogs who get lonely on their own and prefer a busy, stimulating environment. But it isn’t for everybody. “Dogs have to be well socialized to come to daycare,” advises Tracey. To ensure that each dog will get along with the rest, most daycares require new canine clients to pass a temperament test before being accepted. “This is very important, as most dogs are overwhelmed when they come into daycare for the first time,” says Corey Miller of Top Dog Daycare in Colorado Springs. “We’re very meticulous about the dogs we let into the pack. We have a small room off the main play area, and animal wellness

15

we slowly introduce the dogs to the newcomer, while closely watching their behavior.”

As with hiring a pet sitter, it’s important to ask some questions before committing your dog to a daycare.

1

2 3 4

16

Find out what the staff-to-dog ratio is. “We try to keep it eight dogs to one person,” says Tracey. “That’s sort of a U.S. industry self-regulated standard, although there are no set regulations yet for dog daycares.”

Ask staff how many dogs they take at one time, and how big their area is – industry guidelines suggest one dog per 50 square feet.

Make sure the staff is experienced, knowledgeable and responsible. “I hire people who love dogs and have some experience with them,” says Tracey. “I also teach them about canine body language.”

Ensure the daycare is clean, comfortable and well run, that the dogs have some access to the outdoors, and that staff are always on hand to supervise them. “There should always be people in with the dogs,” says Corey.

“The reason this is so important is that a fight can break out quickly in a pack environment, and you need to be on hand to immediately address it. Being among the dogs helps you learn a lot about each one’s behavior and

animal wellness

5 6

posture.” Play and exercise are also crucial. “A lot of dogs like to romp with each other, or we’ll throw balls or play tug-of-war with them,” says Tracey. “Each dog also gets two walks a day. It’s a breath of fresh air and a change of scene, and the dogs really enjoy it. We also have lots of comfy couches for them to lie on.”

As with pet sitting, daycare costs can fluctuate. Daytime rates average around $17 to $25, with overnight stays being extra. While some daycares will only keep dogs for 12 to 24 hours, others will board them for extended periods.

If the daycare does board, ask how the animals will be kenneled and if someone will be with them overnight.

Find out whether or not the daycare requires dogs to be vaccinated. Some do and some don’t. “We don’t force anyone to vaccinate, but I do want to see every dog’s vet records so I know he has either had titers done, or that the vet has at least said he is in good health,” says Tracey.

Whether you use a pet sitter or a daycare, leaving your beloved companion in the hands of a professional caregiver means one less thing to worry about, whether you’re at work or on a two-week vacation. “Laura’s a wonderful lady and the animals just love her,” says Carmel of their own pet sitter. “We know they’ll be well looked after while we’re gone. Now we can relax and enjoy the holidays!”

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animal wellness 17 www.lamaderm.com • 1-800-367-2391 • www.nlpp.com

holistic veterinary advice

talking with

dr. martin goldstein

Q

Our cat, Caitlin, stays indoors, but eats a raw diet and does catch the odd mouse at our cabin. Is she at risk for toxoplasmosis? From what I understand, it isn’t all that dangerous for her, but we’re planning to start a family and I don’t want to contract this disease when I’m pregnant.

A

I have three cats that have been on a prepared raw diet (Bravo) for approximately three years and are doing extremely well. During this period, we’ve had two daughters, now three years and 22 months old, and are soon expecting our third – all with no problems.

Probably the most prevalent source of toxo is raw meat, so I’d recommend that you feed a good quality raw diet that requires almost no preparation, and have your husband clean the litter box.

Q

My dog Maggie, a Shitzu-poo, has many health problems which all seemed to start the minute she had her first shots. Her back end is missing hair and the skin is blackened from all her chewing. Her skin seems scaly and her whole body is bright pink under her fur. I haven’t taken her back to the vet as he only gave her antibiotics and they didn’t work that well. Her ears are constantly getting infected. I use ear wash and ear drops and that clears them up for a short time, but it keeps recurring.

Right now, fleas are driving her crazy. I use flea shampoo, spray all her sleeping places, and put drops of flea-killing substance on the back of her neck, but nothing seems to help. I am due to take Maggie for her shots but my gut tells me they are what started all this. What can I do next? And isn’t it the law to get rabies shots?

A

I agree with your instinct on this, especially based on experiences I've had working with thousands of animals whose problems, many similar to Maggie’s, arose after vaccination. The symptoms you describe are typical of the condition known as vaccinosis. There is also something called the “allergic breakthrough phenomena” which is a worsening of a common form of allergy, called atopy, by vaccination. Although I don’t know the legalities concerning vaccines in your

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area, I’m sure the only enforceable one is rabies. With Maggie’s condition, I strongly advise against anything except exploring the rabies requirements. Be aware that all vaccinations come with a statement that they are intended for use in healthy animals only. In my state, we can write a letter of excusal for an animal that is ill, and having a positive titer only helps the case. As far as treatments go, there is a myriad of products that could work. I cover many in my book. My number one recommendation would be to consult a veterinarian qualified in alternative treatments, especially homeopathy.

Q A

I have a ferret with a tumor on her left adrenal gland.

Is there an alternative to surgery?

If an experienced veterinarian has a relatively good success rate with these, then surgery may be the advisable start (depending on the severity of the mass and how much it is affecting your ferret). I have had a couple of successes using nutraceuticals for the adrenal (e.g. adrenal glandulars like Doctors Mutual Adrenal Support), nutraceuticals based on blood result imbalances, and homeopathic Adrenal Drops by Professional Health Products.

Q A

I am concerned about giving Heartgard/Interceptor and Frontline to my two goldens (six and nine years).

What do you recommend that is safe and does the job?

The most important factor with the heartworm issue depends on where you live and the real incidence of the disease in your area. Where I live, I rarely see positive heartworm and we have hardly distributed any preventative in over 15 years. A number of our patients are taking homeopathic nosode preventatives. As far as fleas go, there are dozens of products on the market for repelling these parasites, both for oral and topical use, that can be tried in place of products like Frontline.

Q

I have an eight-year-old Lab/malamute cross. We just got her from a shelter, and recently found she is suffering from a food allergy. She has very sore paws; they are very inflamed and she bites them a lot to

holistic veterinary advice relieve the itch. Also, her anal area is very swollen.

We have put her on a special hypo-allergenic diet recommended by our vet. Can you offer some advice on how else we her can deal with this problem?

A

A hypo-allergenic diet is a good start, but make sure the ingredients are high quality real food. Remember that dogs are true carnivores and a lot of the processed carbohydrates put into commercial products are very congestive to the system and can serve as a basis for diseases like allergies. Home prepared foods, ideally a raw diet (if she can acclimate to it), would be best.

There are also many nutraceuticals and naturally based remedies to address allergies. Some of the most common that we have used in our practice include beta-sitosterol, in the brands Betathyme by Doctors Mutual or Moduvet, herbal formulations with nettles, echinacea, calendula and licorice, and homeopathic combination formulas containing ingredients like histamine, graphites, psorinum, silicea and mercurius.

The best advice would be to see veterinarian trained in alternatives and homeopathy. A natural form of cortisone is available but would have to be prescribed through a veterinarian.

Q A

I have a 1½-year-old female cat. Since she is an indoor cat who only occasionally goes out on a leash in the backyard, I have not had her vaccinated. My vet says that if she goes outside at all, she is at risk, since some diseases are airborne. Can you advise?

For cats, I go along with the minimum recommendations (if there is potential exposure) that have come out at the university level: vaccinate at 12 weeks of age or older with a feline panleukopenia (distemper) vaccine, and never vaccinate again for the life of the pet. You will need to vaccinate for rabies as required by law in your area.

Dear Readers: The brand names I recommend in my column are suggestions only. There are other brands with similar formulas. As with any product, it’s important to buy a brand you can trust.

DR. MARTY GOLDSTEIN HAS BEEN PRACTICING HOLISTIC VETERINARY MEDICINE FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS. BASED IN NEW YORK, DR. GOLDSTEIN IS THE AUTHOR OF The Nature of Animal Healing, PUBLISHED BY RANDOM HOUSE. Editor’s Note: This column is for information purposes only. It is not meant to replace veterinary care. Please consult your veterinarian before giving your animal any remedies. For a listing of holistic veterinarians, please refer to our website at www.animalwellnessmagazine.com.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS FOR DR. GOLDSTEIN’S COLUMN TO: DR. MARTIN GOLDSTEIN, E-MAIL: INFO@ANIMALWELLNESSMAGAZINE.COM WE REGRET WE CANNOT RESPOND TO EVERY QUESTION.

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How animal-assisted therapy helped Tomas walk tall

by Paul Owens

T

omas was in fourth grade. He was a nice, polite little guy but was very shy and had low self-esteem. He also had problems accepting responsibility. “Tomas will always start a program but will never finish it,” said his counselor. “This has got him into a lot of trouble in school. He doesn’t complete assignments and is always late.

It’s almost as if, since he feels he isn’t good at anything, he deliberately became ‘good’ at being irresponsible.” Tomas’ teachers hoped our animal-assisted therapy program, Paws for Peace, might help him reach out more and become successful at applying himself.

The first day of class was held without dogs, except for my Portuguese water dog, Molly.

She has been my trustworthy partner for 13 years and has probably been petted by 5,000 children over the years. She helps children learn how to approach and pet dogs, and also demonstrates “dog-speak,” the body language dogs use to communicate. Molly is God’s gift to children, the world, and especially me. She is also blind.

On the second day, Tomas and the rest of the children were introduced to their dogs, most of which were rescue dogs from the Glendale Humane Society in California. Tomas’ dog was a two-year old mixed Briard named Buck. They hit it off immediately.

The children soon had the dogs sitting and lying down, staying in place and going to their beds. They learned they could get the dogs to do these things without having to hit, kick, shake, or jerk them on a leash. They trained and groomed the dogs with kindness and affection, and listened to their dog’s heartbeat through a stethoscope when a guest veterinarian visited to talk about health.

The high point of each class was the daily walk. The children were taught how to hold the leash, have their dog sit before crossing the street (at a low traffic cul-de-sac), and

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occasionally ask the dog to come when called while walking.

Of course, every walk inevitably turned into a run. Seeing ears flapping, tails wagging and children joyously yelling while running downhill after their dogs summed up the Paws for Peace program perfectly. For some of these children, Paws for Peace provides rare opportunities for them to actually be children. They can have fun in a safe environment and know they are protected. We see the joy in their beaming faces and feel their happiness and trust.

He missed you.”

Tomas’ face lit up and he ran to his grandmother. She smiled and Tomas went and greeted Buck with joy. I went to escort his grandmother back to her cab.

Seeing ears flapping, tails wagging and

“Mr. Owens, Tomas was very sad,” she said. Her English wasn’t very good. “He cry all week. I tell him he must finally finish what he start.

I tell him it was time for him to be a man.” The old woman began to cry as she continued. “You do not know how important this is. Tomas have no father or mother. He have only me and this dog. This is what he tell me. You give him another chance. I thank you.”

children joyously yelling while running

downhill after their dogs summed up the Paws for Peace program perfectly.

The children are allowed two absences from the program. After that, they are asked to leave.

I told the children there was only one way to get back into class, but I wasn’t going to tell them what it was. Tomas had a very good record of being on time, but had already missed two classes. At the end of the third week, he told me he would like to go on a field trip with another class.

“Tomas, you’ve already missed your two classes,” I said. “If you miss another, you can’t stay in the program. It’s your choice.”

Tomas rejoined the other children and I could tell he was thinking about what to do. He had really come to love Buck. But he decided to go on the field trip and was absent next day.

From that day on, Tomas was true to his word. He volunteered to clean up after class and to walk the dogs to the cars. At graduation, this shy, wonderful little boy got up in front of 40 people and showed them what he had learned. Buck sat, laid down, came when called and stayed in position as Tomas walked around him. His counselor was there and, of course, so was his grandmother. When Tomas finished, they both rose from their seats and

At the start of week four, class was about to begin when a very small old woman got out of a cab and walked slowly up the hill, supported by Tomas. They came to the edge of the field and before I could approach and greet them, the woman pointed toward me and gave Tomas a little shove. I said hello to him and asked him who the woman was. He said it was his grandmother.

“Mr. Owens,” he stammered. I could tell this was very difficult for him, but he forced himself to speak. “I think I made a mistake. I shouldn’t have gone on the field trip. I miss Buck. I’m sorry. I would like to come back.”

“Did your grandmother tell you to rejoin the class?” I asked.

“No,” he said. “I went to her and asked what I should do.”

“Will you be on time and not miss another class?”

“I promise,” he replied.

“Do you remember when I said there was only one thing a student could do to get back in class?” I asked. “Well, this was the one thing. You were very brave. I think you will do what you say you’ll do. Go get your treat pack and say hello to Buck. animal wellness

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Breathing is your best dog-training tool Did you know you can improve your relationship with your dog by changing your breathing patterns?

Breathing is the last thing most people think about when they train their dog. Yet it’s the single most important tool in developing and maintaining focus and control. Whenever we start a nonviolent dog training class, the first thing we say is, “You can’t expect your dog to listen to you if you are unfocused and out-of-control.”

How you feel affects your breath. Fortunately, the reverse is also true: your breath affects how you feel and your ability to perform. Changing your breathing patterns not only relaxes you but can also tremendously affect your dog.

To do the “easy breath,” the breath must be relaxed and not strained. Inhalation must equal exhalation (e.g. three seconds in, three seconds out). There should also be no “holds” at the top or bottom of the breath; instead, make the transitions gentle and continuous. Try to breathe through the nose with the mouth closed.

Do three or four “easy breaths” whenever you remember: while driving, watching TV, when you wake up and before you go to bed. The more you practice, the better the results. Easy breathing oxygenates your blood and energizes every cell in your body.

applauded with everyone else.

Tomas and Buck seemed to hug each other.

It is for children like Tomas that the Paws for Peace program was created. One by one, with the help of animals, each child learns that there are other ways to get along with family, friends, and the environment – ways that can replace fear, anger, and frustration. With the generous assistance of loving volunteers, children learn the value of empathy, respect, nonviolence and responsibility. In short, they learn that kindness and compassion can and do work.

PAUL OWENS

As you continue to practice, you’ll be able to extend your inhalation and exhalation. This will happen automatically and naturally. Within a few days or weeks, you’ll be able to comfortably breathe in and out for ten to twenty seconds or more. However, the length of the breath is not of primary importance – increasing your concentration and relaxation is.

The key to deeper relaxation and control is to listen to yourself breathe. As an experiment, close your ears and familiarize yourself with the sound of your breathing. Consciously relax your breath more and more. With practice, you’ll get better and better until you’ll eventually be able to relax at will. Both you and your dog will benefit.

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animal wellness

IS THE AUTHOR

The Dog Whisperer, A Compassionate Nonviolent Approach

OF

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animal wellness

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Getting

cats

off

insulin!

by Susan Marino

F

or months, Zack’s vet tried without success to regulate the six-year-old Manx cat’s blood sugar with insulin. Zack was urinating outside his litter box, losing weight, and looked bedraggled. On several occasions, his guardian Donna returned home to find him seizing and semi-conscious, and in need of emergency treatment. She felt Zack’s medical needs were more than she could deal with, and gave me a call. The following week, Zack came to live at Angel’s Gate.

For the past 12 years, I have been caring for critically and terminally ill animals. When the first diabetic cats arrived at Angel’s Gate, I followed veterinary orders regarding their insulin requirements. But within days, each cat had gone into hypoglycemic shock, a life-threatening emergency that occurs when blood sugar is too low and insulin levels too high. To find out why this was happening, I took a closer look at the trend and found that diet was the only significant change each animal underwent when they came to Angel’s Gate. We feed our animals a raw food natural diet made from local organic turkey.

Since then, I have carefully monitored and kept records on over 40 diabetic felines at Angel’s Gate. I found that by simply managing their diet, more than 95 percent of these cats could safely be taken off insulin within two weeks of arriving. This was true whether the cat had been on insulin for two weeks or two years.

Understanding diabetes Diabetes is a complex endocrine disorder in which the animal’s body is not able to properly utilize blood sugar. The exact cause is not known, though it’s thought that pancreatic disease, hormonal disturbances and certain medications such as progesterone or steroids may play a part. Other causes may include a poor diet or possibly a migrating parasite that destroys the pancreas. Chronic small bowel inflammation and pregnancy may also induce diabetes mellitus, which is one of the most frequently diagnosed metabolic disorders in felines. Diabetes most often occurs in cats over six and is more common in males than females. It is estimated that one in 400 cats have the disease.

According to Diane Levitan, VMD, Diplomat ACVIM, Board Certified Internal Medicine Specialist in Westbury, Long Island, there are two types of diabetes mellitus. “Type I diabetes is usually associated with the complete destruction of the beta (insulin producing) cells and it results in a

Above: Zack today – in good health and insulin-free. Right: Dakota has his blood sugar levels checked with a glucometer, which is more accurate than urine sticks.

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dependence on supplemental insulin,” she says. “With type II diabetes, the pancreas produces insufficient insulin.” Type II is quite common in cats. In this type of diabetes, the body tissues may not utilize insulin properly. If not managed correctly, type II can become type I diabetes. “Transient diabetes can also occur in cats,” says Dr. Levitan. These felines are often insulin resistant.

As the name implies, the signs and symptoms of transient diabetes are variable and cats should be closely monitored.

In the digestive process, food is broken down into glucose and amino acids that are small enough to be absorbed by the blood stream. Glucose is essential for cell energy. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the beta cells in the pancreas, is responsible for pairing up with the glucose molecule and transporting it into the cell where it can be used for energy. Insulin is the gatekeeper of the cell that allows glucose to enter. If there is not enough insulin, glucose will spill into the blood stream and cause hyperglycemia. The higher levels of sugar in the blood stream causes increased thirst (polydipsia), which leads to excessive urination (polyuria). The cat may also have a ravenous appetite (polyphagia), but continues to lose weight because his body is unable to properly utilize glucose.

There is no cure for diabetes, though the disease can be managed.

According to Dr. Levitan, type I diabetes is always treated with insulin, while type II diabetes is sometimes treated with oral glycosimides, but more often with insulin.

vaccine-induced illness. Diabetes could be one of these illnesses.

In the early stages of the disease, the cat is active and symptoms may go unnoticed. As it progresses, the coat may change, infections may be difficult to clear and the cat may lose weight.

Infrequently, cats will develop neuropathy, a weakness in the hind legs. If the diabetes is not treated, the cat can develop ketoacidosis, a life threatening condition that occurs because the body, needing energy but not able to utilize glucose, starts to break down body fats and proteins. This results in ketones spilling into the bloodstream and urine, and ultimately leads to coma and death if not treated.

Fresh alternatives In addition to feeding your diabetic cat a diet rich in bio-available protein, low in simple carbohydrates, and with moderate fiber, you can also supplement with various glandulars, herbs, spices, vitamins and minerals. This diet can have a profound effect on his insulin requirements, so changes should only be made under veterinary supervision. A diabetic feline should be fed twice a day.

GLANDULARS have become one of my favorite supplements for many diseases, especially diabetes. They use whole animal tissues or extracts, typically derived from beef and pork, to enhance the

The diabesity epidemic Diet therapy is essential to the treatment of diabetes. Cats are obligate carnivores and have an innate insulin resistance mechanism that makes them sensitive to high carbohydrate diets.

In fact, cats do not require carbohydrates at all, yet many are given dry food that is available 24 hours a day. “It is not just what they are fed but how they are fed,” says Dr. Levitan. Cats are not meant to be grazers! We already know that consuming too many refined carbohydrates is a potential cause of diabetes in humans. Could we be contributing to the disease in our feline companions by feeding them a steady diet of high-carbohydrate dry kibble?

As with humans, obesity is a partner in the development of diabetes. “The incidence of type II diabetes in cats is on the rise in direct proportion to the increase in feline obesity,” says Dr. Levitan. Obese felines have most likely developed insulin resistance, which means their cells do not recognize insulin at the receptor sites. This means obese cats are by far the most difficult to manage; they must be carefully monitored as they are very susceptible to hepatic lipidosis, which can be fatal.

In recent human studies, diabetes mellitus was linked to children who have recently been vaccinated. For years, holistic veterinarians like Dr. Jean Dodds have been warning animal guardians about animal wellness

25

function of the same tissue in the cat’s body. Pancreas glandulars can, in theory, help the gland heal or function better, and may also provide the needed active substances secreted by that gland.

MAGNESIUM is given daily. A deficiency of this mineral is believed to slow down the secretion of insulin, and to contribute to some diabetic complications.

SEACURE™, a hydrolyzed bio-available protein, is something I use when one of our diabetic felines has an infection or wound.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS are found in fish oils and some plant oils. There are three types: ALA, EPE and DHL. They reduce inflammation and support heart function.

COLOSTRUM is another product I always have on hand because it supports weakened immune systems.

CINNAMON contains a compound that lowers sugar and cholesterol levels in the blood. Called methylhydroxychalcone polymer (MHCP), it makes fat cells more responsive to insulin and is effective in both type I and type II diabetes. I mix a pinch in both AM and PM feedings.

GARLIC is added to all our animals’ food at Angel’s Gate. We increase the dose during the summer, when there is a greater risk of parasites. Daily intake of garlic can also lower fasting blood glucose levels and improve glucose tolerance.

VANADIUM is a mineral compound found in plants and animals. It has insulin-like effects and is most useful in treating type II diabetes. Promising studies suggest it may also control blood sugar. The recommended dose for felines is 50 mcg daily.

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CHROMIUM is an essential mineral found in many foods, such as calf liver. It improves the effectiveness of insulin by making glucose tolerance factor, and may enhance pancreatic beta cell function. Insulin works with chromium to allow glucose to enter the cell, and aids in the breakdown of fats. Chromium supplements often contains picolinate, which increases absorption. The typical dose for a cat is 200mcg daily.

The work I have done doesn’t offer a double-blind study, but the result is dozens of formerly insulin-dependent cats like Zack now live insulin free. When an animal responds this well to diet management, it improves not only his quality of life, but also his guardian’s. Once again, the animals at Angel’s Gate have taught us a most valuable lesson.

SUSAN MARINO IS THE FOUNDER OF ANGEL’S GATE HOSPICE AND REHABILITATION CENTER FOR ANIMALS IN LONG ISLAND, NY.

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Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

Jamie Lynn DiScala and her rescue,

Hailey

by Dana Cox

C

Call it what you want – fate, serendipity or just good luck.

When actor Jamie Lynn DiScala and her husband, manager A.J. DiScala, ran into Animal Wellness publisher Tim Hockley at the L.A. airport last spring, little did they know how much the conversation would change their lives.

After hearing about the then upcoming Animal Wellness Expo, Jamie Lynn, best known for her long-running role as Meadow Soprano on The Sopranos, and A.J. decided to attend the Rose Bowl event. They ended up adopting a beautiful 10-month-old Rottweiler mix named Hailey and the couple couldn’t be happier.

“We always talked about wanting a dog to round out our little family, but never could we have imagined hitting the jackpot the way we did with Hailey,” says Jamie Lynn. “We really believe rescue dogs appreciate their new chance. From the first day we brought her home, all she wanted to do was be good and give love. It was like she knew us her whole life.”

Jamie Lynn describes herself as a huge dog lover but neither she nor A.J. had ever rescued an animal before. The AW Expo

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seemed like a good opportunity to change that. They knew they would have a difficult time choosing just one dog but Hailey’s loving personality finally won them over.

“We went with open minds and open hearts and promised each other we would be patient, strong and rational. We walked around looking and playing with many dogs. But when we rounded one corner and saw Hailey, both our hearts went out to her. She was so mild-mannered and sweet. We asked to take her out and walk her around a little. She came right over and tried to sit on my lap. It was the cutest.”

Remembering their promise to be patient, Jamie Lynn and A.J. decided to do one more loop around the Rose Bowl. The more they walked and talked, the more convinced they became that Hailey was the dog they wanted. They stepped up their pace to return to the San Gabriel Humane Society’s booth, where they found Hailey, only to discover she was

Hailey had been at the San Gabriel Humane Society for four months before Jamie Lynn and A.J. DiScala discovered her at the Animal Wellness Expo last June.

Photo: Christopher Ameruoso

Why the Sopranos star believes fate brought them together

“Rescue pets appreciate everything. It’s as if they want to be the best they can be because they are so thankful for a home. We will only have rescue dogs from now on!” gone. The congenial canine had left to take part in a mini-parade to attract the attention of potential adopters. Disappointed, the couple took the shelter’s phone number and headed for the exit. Then destiny stepped in.

“Seconds before we were about to leave, we heard an announcer say ‘and here is Hailey...’ A.J. and I looked at each other and said ‘It’s fate!’ We ran up to the stage to claim her before anyone else could... and the rest is history.”

The award winning 23-year-old actor, who is also developing an impressive stage career (Broadway’s Beauty and the Beast, Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella), says Hailey fits into her busy L.A. lifestyle perfectly, and hangs out at many of the city’s dog-friendly destinations. When Jamie Lynn is shooting on location for more than two weeks, she takes Hailey with her. For the easy-going canine, that meant three months in the Dominican Republic this past summer while Jamie Lynn worked on the film, Lovewrecked. Jamie Lynn took advantage of the opportunity to teach Hailey how to swim. “She was so afraid at first, but every day she got a little braver. Now, you cannot get her out of the pool. She even jumps into fountains.”

An experienced dog guardian, the actor can’t believe that legislators are considering banning breeds such as Hailey’s.

“It makes me so sad to hear the stereotypes about Rotties,” says Jamie Lynn. “I have had cocker spaniels and bichons that were very good and sweet dogs, but not friendly with strangers or other dogs like Hailey is. For people to say Rotties are a frightening breed and the others aren’t, strictly by appearance, is unfair.”

Photo: Abbot Genser/HBO

The compassionate performer knows something about stereotypes. As a spokesperson for the National Eating Disorders Association, Jamie speaks to people across the United States about the dangers of trying to live up to the “starving model” stereotype. She courageously gave details about her own battle with anorexia in her book Wise Girl, published in 2002.

These days, however, Jamie Lynn is totally at peace with her life, especially with the addition of Hailey.

Jamie Lynn was already a seasoned stage performer when cast as Meadow Soprano in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Sopranos. Above: A scene with TV dad James Gandolfini, who plays Tony Soprano on the show.

“Hailey means the world to me. I love to cuddle with her when A.J. isn’t here. When he is here, the three of us will lie in bed on a rainy afternoon and it’s the best feeling in the world. It makes us all feel that, no matter what happens, we have everything we could ever need, right here at home.” animal wellness

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40

ways to bond over the holidays

Surefire stress & boredom busters Fight stress and the holiday blues this season with the help of your animal companion. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Curl up with a good book

3. Rub her the right way!

Read your favorite animal story aloud to your companion. He may not understand you, but he’ll enjoy hearing the sound of your voice! You might also record the story to play on tape while you’re out. Recommendations: Old Yeller (have a tissue on hand), Black Beauty, Charlotte’s Web, Watership Down

Most animals love to be massaged. You don’t have to be a professional. Be gentle, use slow movements and go with your intuition about where your pal needs the most attention.

2. Go on a walkabout As a special treat, don’t take your dog for a walk – let her take you! Allow her to lead the way, go where she wants (within reason, of course) and stop and sniff whenever she likes.

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animal wellness

4. Tree hugger Cats love to play with tree ornaments, so why not decorate one just for him? Buy a small artificial tree made from non-toxic materials, and nestle cat toys and treats into the branches. Avoid lights, and don’t use string or wire to attach the ornaments. So what if he knocks it over – it’s a miniature tree!

9. Search and rescue

What’s good for you is mostly good for her. If you have a juicer, whip up a smoothie you’ll both love. Yogurt, berries, carrots, apples – your four legged companion will belly up to the juice bar pretty quickly for one of these yummy treats. And with all the excess during the holidays, you’ll benefit too. Note: stay away from grape juice and grapes.

Look for your buddy’s missing toys.

Move the fridge, check under the sofa, all the while repeating the toy’s name.

Your dog or cat will soon get in on the action. While you’re at it, go through her toys to make sure none are made with PVC. If you find one, exchange it immediately for a safer toy.

6. That’s entertainment!

Play “mouse-in-a-hole” with a cardboard wrapping paper tube. Tie a catnip mouse to the end of a piece of string and feed it through the tube. Pull and wiggle the string as your cat tries to catch the mouse at the other end.

You can now get videos and DVDs made especially for animals. Buy one for your own companion as a gift – and watch it with him. Or rent your favorite animal movie and watch it together.

Ideas include Turner and Hooch, Air Bud, The Truth about Cats and Dogs, The Black Stallion, Stuart Little, Dr. Dolittle, Lady and the Tramp and Black Beauty Note: Animal House doesn’t count

7. A little something extra Treat your companion to his favorite food at Christmas or Hanukkah. Better still, serve him up a little of what you’re having. Steamed veggies, mashed potatoes and gravy or latkes will make a nice treat he’ll love. But don’t overdo it or you’ll be pulling out the Pepto Bismal next.

8. Watch the birdie!

Buy your cat a bird feeder and install it outside his favorite window.

10. Tubular

11. Weighing in When was the last time you weighed your dog or cat? It’s something every guardian should have a handle on, so hop on the scale and weigh yourself (remember you’re doing this for your friend), then pick up your animal and get back on the scale. Record your friend’s weight for future reference. Note: Don’t try this if your dog is a Great Dane!

12. That’s a stretch Play copycat. Lie down on the floor in front of the fire and see if you can imitate your feline’s movements as he rolls, stretches and luxuriates in the warmth. This is a great way to de-stress!

13. Smile!

Arrange for a Christmas photo of the two of you (invite other important beings at your discretion) or have a beautiful photo or illustration done of your buddy alone. It will be something you treasure forever.

Created by Lauren Amber

5. Juice for two

15. A picture’s worth a thousand words Collect your favorite photos and start a special photo album or a scrapbook.

If you’re inclined, write a poem or story.

If you’re missing a companion who’s passed on, write a tribute to him. No one needs to read it but you!

16. Pass the grass Greens are great for animals so plant some wheatgrass or barley inside for your furry friends to chomp away on.

Note: organic grass kits are best and are available at good pet product stores.

17. Give ’em the once over No one knows your buddy as well as you do. When your animal is relaxed, go over her entire body with your eyes and hands.

Make sure she’s free of fleas, lumps and hotspots. Check dog ears for excess hair (in long-eared breeds). Finish it off with a big hug or cuddle. You’ll both feel better.

18. Shake your pom poms Buy a bag of pom poms at the dollar store and watch your kitty go. Note: pom poms should be mouth-size so kitty can pick them up but not mini so they can be swallowed.

14. Give her a new look.

If you knit or sew, find a pattern to create a custom sweater or coat for Fifi. If not, try ordering one on-line or visit your favorite accessories store. Remember to get her proper measurements first and, if you want her to look her best, hold up some color swatches to her fur before you buy.

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19. Best foot forward Who doesn’t love boots?? Buy yourself a fab new pair for fun or snow and get your favorite canine a pair too.

20. If you build it. . .

Make a sofa cushion fort, add a few blankets and play hide and seek with your cat.

21. Add some color Is your companion feeling a little blue or perhaps a tad too energetic? Why not try using a little color therapy on her? Add a colored towel or blanket to her bed or favorite sleeping spot. Red encourages vitality and self-confidence, while indigo and violet promote calm behavior. See the chart below for the full spectrum.

VIOLET – SOOTHING / INSPIRATION

INDIGO – CALMING / INTUITION

BLUE – HEALTH / KNOWLEDGE

GREEN – BALANCE / LOVE

YELLOW – VERSATILITY / PLAYFULNESS

ORANGE – HAPPINESS / ENTHUSIASM

RED – VITALITY / COURAGE

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27. Enough is enough

Take 15 minutes to consider whether your estate planning includes your animal friends. Is there someone you trust to look after your buddy should something happen to you? Put pen to paper and figure out how much it costs to pay for your animal’s expenses per year, eg. food, vet visits, toys, beds, accessories, and times it by the maximum number of years your animal could live. This is the figure you should consider setting aside in your will (depending on your local legislation, the beneficiary who receives these funds should be the same person who will look after your animal).

Is his jumping up driving you crazy? Or maybe it’s the hysterical barking every time someone gets out of their car two blocks away? Now’s the perfect time to get a gentle training book and address that behavioral “challenge” that’s driving you crazy.

23. A job for two If you’re committed to doing some volunteer work next year, why not consider taking your friend with you.

Therapy dogs and cats make a huge difference in the lives of children, the elderly and hospital patients. Find out if your animal would fit the part. www.deltasociety.org www.dog-play.com/therapyl.html www.therapydogs.com

24. What a treat!

28. Try communicating Most people have some intuition when it comes to their animals. Sit down with yours in a quiet room, take some deep, relaxing breaths and deliver your message by visualizing, thinking and speaking it aloud.

See if you “feel” or “see” anything in return.

Usually your first reaction is the correct one. At the very least, your companion will enjoy the attention and pick up on your loving intentions.

29. Frosty the snow dog If you have snow, take your dog outside and roll around in it. Have a mock snowball fight, make snow angels and build a snow dog, snow fire hydrant or snow cat (build it where your cat can watch you). Then come inside for refreshments (hot chocolate for you, water for her) and cookies.

Photo: William K. Enoch

Neo Paws

22. Make a new plan, Stan!

Doing some holiday baking? Don’t forget your furry friends. Check out our recipes on page 38 or get a pet mix. Invite your animals into the kitchen while you bake.

Once they get a whiff of the ingredients, they’ll keep you company until you’re done. Make a few extra and place them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a festive and tasty gift your friend’s animals will love. Freeze extras for homemade treats all year round. Remember, no raisins!

25. Jazz it up!

Give your animal’s eating area a facelift.

Add a fun placemat and new bowl that matches your friend’s personality. For mature animals, consider a raised feeding system that will save his back.

26. Check out some new digs Hop in the car and drive to a new park or path you’ve never visited. You’ll both appreciate a change of scenery.

30. What’s in a name?

Do you know what your animal’s name means? If not, do a little research to find out if it really fits him. You can start with www.behindthename.com and www.parenthood.com

31. Indulge together If you’re home alone, buy a small tub of natural frozen yogurt and share it with your four-legged friends. You’ll all soon be feeling better! Note: skip the chocolate since it’s harmful to animals.

32. Set up a mini entertainment unit Ever seen the world from your small dog’s or cat’s point of view? Get down to their level and look around. Pretty boring! Why not set up a shelf at their level? Arrange interesting do-dads on it – feathers, crystals, natural pot pourri. Let your imagination go. Change it up every so often when you see something interesting. At the very least, it will make a great topic of conversation when guests come over.

33. Plan a trip It’s not too early to start planning your next getaway and this time, why not include Rover? There are many options available for well-behaved dogs, ranging from high-end hotels in your favorite city to campgrounds and wilderness adventures geared to canines.

34. Up to scratch?

Does your couch look like Freddy Krueger’s? Then maybe it’s time for a scratching post. They’re easy to build or buy (try to get one with sisal). If the one you have is in rough shape, give it a makeover by removing the old covering and wrapping it in sisal cord.

Individually Custom Designed Diets for Pets with Health or Weight Problems!

35. Set up a manicure Next time you get out your nail file, get out your friend's nail clippers too.

Glamorous nails may look great on you but they're just a nuisance for her.

Remember to avoid the quick and, a word to the wise, choose a time when your animal is sleepy and calm.

36. Brush up Have you looked at the new grooming tools out there lately? If you haven’t tried a shedding comb on your husky, you don’t know what you’re missing! Even if you’re happy with your old standby, take a few minutes to brush your dog or comb your cat. It’s relaxing for both of you!

37. Play detective Have a closer look at your animal’s pet food label. Make sure it doesn’t contain things like by-products, BHA or ethoxyquin.

38. Get some balance Animals are professionals at de-stressing.

So try a little of what she does. Sit next to your animal while she’s sleeping. Close your eyes and match her breathing. You’ll be surprised how relaxing it is.

39. A seat with a view Buy a window seat for your cat or small dog. A good view of birds and squirrels is a surefire boredom buster.

40. Set a date Natural Scratch

Plan a play date with your friends and their dogs. Great for your mental, physical and social health!

NEWPet Food Industry First!

Does your pet have a problem that is not responding to normal treatment?

Do you think that perhaps a fresh and natural diet designed specifically to your pet’s individual problem would be the most common sense treatment?

Nature’s Link is now able to offer this industry unique service. With advanced manufacturing techniques, the latest ESHA and Genesis software and the services of Dr. Susan Lauten (PhD Biomedical Sciences, Masters Degree companion animal nutrition), Nature’s Link is the only company able to help your pet regains its health, naturally! Don’t settle for generic ‘medical’ diets – target your pet’s problems head on with scientifically designed fresh, human grade and organic diets. Shipped fresh frozen to your door.

Nature’s Link – Real Food for Your Pet! Contact us at

1-888-442-9992 or info@natureslink.ca or www.natureslink.ca.

Available in the U.S. late fall 2004. animal wellness

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Bone-A-Fido/Rouge Chenille

FantastiKritters by Karen Olsen

Make no bones about it, this is a beautiful bed for your pet and a beautiful addition to your home. This bed is covered in a rich Rouge Chenille, with the bone and 4 complementing pillows finished in a gorgeous Trouville Red French fabric.

The sleeping cushion and pillows are hand-sewn, zippered, removable and machine washable. (For pets under 32 pounds) Available in 5 fabric choices.

Made in the USA. Beds for Dogs and Cats. Toll Free: (877) 773-8233 www.bedsfordogsandcats.com.

These expressive designs just for pet people are available on: • Tee shirts • Sweatshirts • Embroidered caps • Embroidered denim shirts • Watches • Tote bags. Some feature cats with attitudes – they have something to say. Karen's other designs are for Dog Moms and Dads, Cat Moms and Dads, and others who just love Mutts. Flying Panda Gifts • 1259 El Camino Real #153 Menlo Park, CA 94025 • (800) 947-2632. www.flyingpanda.com

CatSip CatSip is a great nutritional treat for your pets. It’s the only real milk your pets can digest. Unlike other snacks or milk drinks, CatSip has no added sweeteners, oils or processing additives. Don’t forget your pets this holiday season, stuff their stockings with CatSip. Call (800) CATSIP or visit www.catsip.com for more information.

Animulets™ Exquisite healing jewelry for pets and their parents. Handcrafted and beautifully finished (14k gold and/or silver). The animulet’s™ design features a prominent healing gem of your choice with a swarovski crystal. A sterling silver lobster clasp attaches easily to the pet’s collar ring. www.animalamulets.com Ph./Fax (805) 967-0406

FRUZZLE Show off your favorite pet in a FRUZZLE decorated by you and your family! It’s a frame, it’s a puzzle – the FRUZZLE. The FRUZZLE is a great new way to express your love for animals. GET FRUZZLED online at www.fruzzle.com. All you need is a picture and imagination…

Murphy’s Bone Publishing presents…

A fun-filled children’s book/CD that teaches canine care and safety through music. “’Murphy’s Safety Songs’” is delightful!”

– Betty White, Actress/Animal Lover.

www.murphysbone.com Murphy’s Bone Publishing, P.O. Box 56835 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413 (818) 906-8196 toll free (877) 811-BONE (2663) $19.95 US “Murphy” makes a wonderful, unique holiday gift!

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Chez Puppy Favorite treats of the Hollywood “pet set” – gourmet dog treats by Chez Puppy! All-natural, homemade, veterinarian approved. Seen in Fox’s “The Simple Life 2” and “Legally Blonde 2” premiere. Pet toys, bowls, charms and carriers too! Portion of proceeds donated to charities.

Call toll free (866) 900-CHEZ, or visit www.chezpuppy.com.

Perfectly Pampered Pets

www.PetHealthRecords.com

Perfectly Pampered Pets has made holiday shopping for Fido a breeze! Visit us for a complete selection of dog gifts including gourmet all natural treats, gift baskets, clothing, diners, furniture, designer collars, jewelry and dog homes.

Huge selection of gifts. Most with free shipping. All major credit cards accepted. See us at www.perfectlypamperedpets.com.

Toll Free (877) 217-0595 or (678) 560-4819.

Protect Your Pet Today! Is your vet available 24/7? Are you always with your pet? Never again be without your pets’ health record. Do it today, you can’t predict an emergency! Visit us at www.pethealthrecords.com or call (818) 348-2397 to take a no cost demonstration today.

Buddy Belt

Sojourner Farms Kung Fu Fido Fortune Cookies for Dogs are real fortune cookies with a doggie twist. Made with simple, honest ingredients like 100% USDA chicken liver powder, flour, and eggs, our fortune cookies are all-natural and baked to crunchy perfection.

Dogs love to scarf down these tasty treats almost as much as people love to read our fortunes.

Individually wrapped in our own Chinese-style take-out containers, these gourmet treats make super gifts! Visit www.sojos.com

Save your pet's neck! With a neck collar you feel less in control and dogs have a tendency to pull and choke as a result. Buddy Belt was created to be easy to put on, eliminate stress on the neck, provide flexibility and ensure security. Essential to the design is a single buckle which is fastened between the shoulder blades with the animal’s front legs extending through the collar underneath. Great for all types of animals. 416-503-1632 or www.buddy-belts.com

Wally Roo's Busy Day PERFECT GIFT UNDER $20! “Wally Roo’s Busy Day,” DVD entertains pets, soothes their minds and eases boredom while providing non-violent, enriching programming for children and parents alike. The 30-minute DVD follows Wally Roo and an animal-only cast on one adventurous day. Use as a tool for home alone pets or gift for animal-lovers. www.wallyroo.com

Pawpular Pooch by Lollipop Designs Introducing the “Paw Pouch” – PATENT PENDING. No more fumbling around for items while walking your dog!

Our durable pouch comes with three pockets, two zippered pouches and an adjustable belt – matching garments and other apparel are available to walk your dog in style! Visit us at www.pawpularpooch.com or call (866) 598-5050.

Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co.’s bakers have donned their elf hats and baked our first GRAIN FREE holiday treat. We took three flavours and combined them in one bag. Wild salmon rosemary “dogs”, organic molasses apple flax “holiday shapes” and organic sweet potato cranberry “squares”. We ship worldwide or check out www.gidbc.ca for your nearest retailer.

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Sojourner Farms

K9U Dog Training

Biscuits are made with simple, honest ingredients like whole wheat flour, sesame seeds, and blackstrap molasses. No preservatives and nothing artificial. Available in whole wheat, savory garlic, and peanut butter – dogs will sit, stay, speak and roll over to get their paws on these tasty treats! Visit www.sojos.com

As seen on National Geographic, Animal Planet, and heard on Radio Stations Nationwide! Music and dog lovers will be amazed. Real music played by real dogs. Anyone who dared to play their Beatles records backwards will love this music.

Written and performed by dogs.

Available at: www.canineu.com or call (866) K9-TUNES.

The Fresh Air Purifier A must for any family with or without pets.

The Purifier Heard About On Talk Radio Purifies the air you breathe from harmful dust, allergens, pet dander, smoke, odors, and all contaminants which bring disease and discomfort to your family and pets 10-day risk free trial. Call Tom (888) 774-9147 to order www.tholland.biz tholland@ecoquestintl.com.

Pet Futon Now your dog or cat can stretch out in the comfort of their own futon.

The sturdy natural pine frame and attractive plush cushion makes a great addition to any room. Your animal companions will love that they can get up on their own cozy furniture anytime they want. Available in Small, Queen and King sizes. Cushions come in a variety of patterns. Prices (frame + cushion) range from: US $79.98-129.98 CDN $104.99-169.99 Call for a brochure.

(866) PET BEDS or www.petfuton.com

Simply Put A special gift, the little bundle of love snuggles in your arms. This holiday, train your puppy or kitten at the end of the day. Once they hear the music it is time to relax…Sweet Dream Relaxation Music for Dogs and Cats. www.musicfordogsandcats.com HolidayWishes from JMM and SimplyPut.com

Infrared Heat & Massage for Dogs Easy to use hand held unit. Deep penetrating Infrared Heat for sore muscles, back problems and Hip Dysplasia.

Increases blood flow – regenerates cell growth – speeds up healing. Give your dog a healthier longer life! Recommended by Veterinarians and Medical Doctors.

Holiday Special $89.50 Call (619) 470-4765 or visit infraredheatandmassagefordogs.com rimcqueen@cox.net

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Mellow Mutts Using the finest ingredients and purest essential oils our Aromatherapist has created a “TOP DOG” line of premier grooming supplies. The holiday tote holds a wonderful variety of our top selling products: (8 oz Stinky Butts shampoo scented with a blend of Sweet Orange, Ginger & Eucalyptus, 8 oz of Dog Daze Calming Mist scented with Rose, Lavender & Chamomile & most popular product our Pampered Paws Healing Balm with Tea Tree essential.) We would like to encourage you to visit our site www.MellowMutts.com

Animal Communication: Making the Connection Want to know what your animal is thinking? Have fun learning this unique step by step process that will help you reawaken your innate ability to communicate with animals. 17 interesting and easy to navigate video sections that let you learn at your own speed. The perfect gift for you or the animal lover in your life.

Available in CD ROM or DVD, www.IntegratedAnimal.com (503) 704-7499

Neo Paws International

Bailey Mac's Natural Delights Give your favorite companions the gift of taste and love with Bailey Mac’s Natural Delights irresistible, healthy, free-range turkey jerky.

Celebrate the holidays in style and wellbeing.

Holiday gift items are available in small and large Regular and Deluxe Gift Tins. Please see our website www.baileymacs.com for details.

The Dog Whisperer – DVD Beginning and Intermediate Dog Training.

This DVD presents positive training methods that are easy, fun and effective. Featuring Paul Owens, the author of the acclaimed Dog Whisperer book. Also presents resolutions for all basic problems. Bonus segments include animation, a dog puppet, and training from the dog’s point of view. Perfect for the whole family! www.dogwhispererdvd.com

Soft Claws Soft Claws® nail caps are a humane alternative to declawing. They are plastic caps that fit snugly over your cat’s sharp claws to prevent destructive scratching. Each set includes 40 caps that last about 4 to 6 months and do not interfere with your pet’s normal activity. Finally, cat owners no longer have to choose between wellbeing of their pets and the wellbeing of their furniture. To order go to www.PawsChoice.com or call (800) 709-PAWS

OUTFIT YOUR DOG WITH THE ULTIMATE IN OUTERWEAR! NEO-PAWS INTERNATIONAL brings you the best in design, functionality and high quality materials. NEO-PAWS has designed the ‘ideal’ NEOPRENE JACKET and CANINE FOOTWEAR. These products are versatile to different seasons, warm, waterproof & windproof, reflective, made with the highest quality materials, soft, flexible & lightweight. www.neopaws.com (888) dog-shoe (364-7463)

Paw Pro Paw Pro: The only spray capable of protecting dogs’ paws from ice balls and salt. Also acts as a repellent which prevents snow from sticking to fur and reduces dirt and mud on paws. Paw Pro uses all natural oils and is non toxic, if paws are licked. Great for paw conditioning. Use winter, spring and fall. For more information visit www.aglinnovations.com or call (877) 245-7387

Pet Emergency Information Kit What will happen if you’re unable to return home to your pets?

Be Assured Inc. has compiled a kit designed to create an information trail Emergency wallet cards, removable window stickers and a refrigerator magnet with an information insert all lead to a pre-designated caregiver. A caregivers information document spells out medical history, diet, habits and much more. A notice to your veterinarian is included. This Kit is a fabulous idea for all pet guardians and a thoughtful gift too. Only $13.95. Call (773) 856-5937 or visit www.beassuredinc.com

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Easy Holiday Recipes Your Animals (and family) will love

By B.B. King, the Galloping Gourmutt

Try these tasty and healthy treats on your own clan this season. You’re sure to be rewarded with extra purrs and kisses.

Carob is a good source of riboflavin, calcium, potassium, copper, manganese, and fiber.

Hemp flour is gluten free and an excellent source of protein.

It also contains all the essential amino acids, and is high in fiber.

Goat milk yogurt does not have the protein b-lactoglobulin that is responsible for many dairy allergies. It‘s also higher in vitamin A, calcium, potassium and copper than cow milk yogurt.

Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants and help prevent urinary tract infections.

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Brazil nuts are nutrient dense, with protein, fiber, selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, and thiamin.

They are also a good source of arginine and bioflavonoids.

Almonds are an excellent source of protein, fiber, calcium, zinc, and vitamin E. Walnuts are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids, along with manganese, copper, biotin, tryptophan, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Walnuts also contain an antioxidant called ellagic acid that helps support the immune system.

HOLIDAY BROWNIES 1 cup yogurt (you can also substitute goat or sheep yogurt) 2 cups stone ground whole wheat flour, or other flour of your choice – e.g. kamut, oat, spelt, teff, buckwheat, or hemp. Spelt works very nicely, and is great for dogs with a sensitivity to grains. Combinations of whole grain flours are fine, too.

2/3 cup filtered water 1 teaspoon iodized sea salt (optional) 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 cup carob powder 1/2 cup very finely chopped unsalted nuts (optional) such as Brazil nuts, almonds or walnuts, or 1/2 cup of organic dried cranberries.

1 teaspoon baking powder

Preheat oven to 350ºF, and lightly grease a square cake pan. In a bowl, combine the flour and water until you have a smooth consistency.

Add the yogurt and mix well. Add remaining ingredients, making sure everything is well combined. If you want to save time, simply put all the ingredients in a food processor, mixer or blender, and whirl until smooth. Spoon into cake pan. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the top is dry and springs back when you touch it with a finger. Cool completely before serving.

For some holiday pizzazz, lightly ice the cake with low fat cream cheese and decorate with holidaythemed biscuits along with some cranberries and parsley for color and health! Store in refrigerator, or cut into small squares and freeze.

This recipe can also be prepared as mini pup cakes, cutting the baking time to 15 minutes.

Oregano contains carvacrol and thymol, which gives it special antifungal and anti-parasitic properties.

DOGLICIOUS MINI BAGELS 1 cup organic stone ground whole wheat flour or other whole grain flour 1 cup organic unbleached white flour 1 package yeast (if your dog is sensitive to yeast, simply leave it out) 2/3 cup homemade chicken broth (you can substitute store bought sodium-free chicken broth) 1 tablespoon unpasteurized honey

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with the yeast. Heat the chicken broth in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, until warm. Add the warm broth and the honey to the flour mixture and beat for about 3 minutes in a food processor or mixer.

Gradually add the rest of the flour. Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead for a few minutes, until there are no lumps or bumps. Cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Now, the fun part – get your kids to help. Divide the dough into 25 pieces. Roll each piece into a nice smooth ball. Punch a hole in each ball with your finger (a chopstick also works nicely), and gently pull apart the dough so you have a hole about 1” wide.

Don’t be fussy, because the bagels will rise into shape when they bake. Place all the bagels on a lightly greased or parchment paper-covered cookie sheet, and allow them to rise for 5 minutes, even if you have left out the yeast. Pop the bagels in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Allow them to cool in the oven before removing them.

Parsley is rich in iron, vitamin C, and pro-vitamin A, as well as calcium, phosphorus, and manganese.

Garlic has antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is known to enhance the immune system and contains vitamin A, iodine, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium.

Honey is not commonly regarded as an allergenic food, and is also not included in the list of 20 foods that most frequently contain pesticide residue. It’s a source of vitamin B2, vitamin B6, iron, and manganese. Its unique composition also makes it an anti-microbial agent. Manuka honey is a mono-floral honey from New Zealand; research shows that it is effective in the treatment of dyspepsia and stomach ulcers. It also helps in cases of bacterial diarrhea, and is effective at promoting the re-absorption of sodium and water from the intestines.

These bagels are tasty for humans, too! You can add anything you want to the dough, such as freshly minced garlic (remember, a little goes a long way), fresh herbs like oregano or parsley, or some parmesan cheese.

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Deny me?

It’s not an option.

KAT KRISTMAS KELP KISSES

We carefully select and bake with the finest ingredients, including organically grown fruit , vegetables and meat. Our GRAIN FREE treats are part of our commitment to a healthy diet, for our dogs and cats — and yours. Look for us at a quality health or pet food store near you.

1 6.4 oz can tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardines, or other fish of your cat’s choice 2 cups organic flour, such as organic brown rice flour 1 tablespoon parsley 1 teaspoon Acadian sea kelp 1/2 teaspoon iodized sea salt (optional) 1 cup filtered water or fish stock 1/4 cup oil, such as organic safflower or cold water fish oil

Wholesale orders only:

1-888-276-PAWS (7297)

Enquiries: 604-276-9799 Web: www.gidbc.ca

™

Acadian Sea Kelp contains protein, iodine, calcium, sulphur, magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, along with vitamins A, B, E, and D. Catnip, besides making our feline companions purr, contains iron, selenium, potassium, manganese, and chromium, as well as other vitamins and minerals. ™

i

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Organic brown rice flour is higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white rice, and is also gluten free. It is a source of potassium, protein, iron, thiamin, and niacin.

Parsley is rich in iron and vitamin C, and also contains provitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, and manganese. Parsley is considered one of our most concentrated food sources.

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Put all ingredients in a food processor or blender, and whirl until everything is thoroughly combined and really smooth. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Pretend you are making deviled eggs, and scoop the mixture into a cookie press. Choose a shaping disc, e.g. a star, and have fun making all kinds of pretty little kisses for your kitty, who will likely appreciate the taste much more than all the time you took making these cute “kitty kookies!” If you don’t have a cookie press, just spoon the mixture onto your cookie sheet, the way you would with drop cookies. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the oven off and let the kisses cool completely in the oven. Store them in an airtight container or Ziplock bag in the refrigerator.

THE GALLOPING GOURMUTT DIETS FOR DOGS AND CATS.

CREATES CUSTOM MADE

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awm Product Picks

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Back to the earth

Hemp is hip

Along with a high quality meat-based diet, dogs need adequate supplementation to ensure good health. Wild canines derive some of these supplements from soil, plants and other natural sources that our dogs don’t have access to.

EarthORIGINS from Urban Carnivore enhances your dog’s diet with these important nutrients.

It contains spirulina, which is rich in chlorophyll, beta carotene and amino acids, sea vegetables such as kelp and dulse, and montmorillonite clay, which provides essential minerals and also acts to bind toxins and bacteria and remove them from the body.

125g: $19.95 www.urbancarnivore.com

Looking for a unique gift for your pooch? How about a hemp collar? Hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly, hemp is grown without pesticides and herbicides and produces soft, strong, durable fabrics. Earthdog offers a complete line of adjustable hemp collars for dogs. They feature 100 percent hemp canvas construction and come in 14 colorful styles. They’re also machine washable, and because hemp softens with age, the collars only get more comfortable as time goes on.

Small: $19 Medium: $22 Large: $24. www.earthdogonline.com

More than skin deep

For litter box hygiene

Is he scratching himself silly? Coat and skin problems such as itching, dandruff, hot spots and excessive shedding often signal a nutritional deficiency. Animal Health Laboratories addresses the problem with Dr. Maggie’s Supplement for Skin & Coat. The palatable chicken-flavored oil contains essential fatty acids as well as Vitamins A, E and D. It not only helps prevent shedding and skin disorders but also boosts the immune system, aids digestion and supports the nervous system.

375ml: $12.99 1L: $26.99 4L: $65.99 www.drmaggie.ca

As often as you clean out your cat’s litter box, moisture can sometimes be a problem, providing an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, parasites and other yucky things that are unhealthy for you and your animal. Enviro-Shield from McIntosh Pro Line is a powder that you sprinkle in your cat’s litter box several times a week to prevent pathogens from growing and thriving. The powder is naturally derived and non-toxic so it won’t bother your kitty if he happens to ingest any.

350g: $12.95 1kg: $19.95 www.mcintoshproline.com

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ANESTHESIA and older animals – separating fact from fiction

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

P

an, a 15-year-old daschund, needed his teeth cleaned, but his guardian Sharon was wary about having it done because of the anesthesia. “My vet told me Pan was too old to be put under, and that at his age it was more of a risk to do the cleaning than not to do it.” You may have found yourself in the same situation, since it’s a common assumption that older animals shouldn’t have anestheia. In fact, this isn’t the case.

One of my special interests is geriatric medicine (I define geriatric as any animal over seven years of age). Since I started offering an integrative approach to animal care about eight years ago, I’ve seen many older animals that I don’t believe are getting the proper care they need. For example, many doctors still give older animals vaccines, even though they’ve already received more than enough protection over the course of their lives. Many are also treated year-round with chemical flea control, despite the fact that most don’t have regular exposure to fleas or ticks.

And sadly, far too many guardians of geriatric animals are discouraged from having necessary procedures done, such as dental cleaning and tumor removal. The reason? Because in the

minds of their vets, the animals are “too old” to have anesthesia.

I find this disturbing. Why is an animal “too old” to receive proper health care? Why should he have to suffer the pain and inflammation of dental disease, or have a small tumor develop into a malignant, metastatic cancer, when that tumor could be easily removed?

I do tell the guardians of geriatric animals who want a second opinion that if their veterinarian is not comfortable anesthetizing older animals, that’s fine – a doctor shouldn’t do something he or she doesn’t feel comfortable about. However, I take care of many geriatric animals, and none are “too old” to receive

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proper care. Just as I hope no doctor ever tells me I’m too aged to receive medical care, I don’t want to tell my clients that their animals are too old to be treated correctly and humanely!

least 50 percent of the animals I anesthetize for dental cleaning or tumor removal are older (many 15 years and up) and also have one or more stable health problems such as kidney or heart disease. To date, all have done quite well with anesthetic procedures.

WHEN IS ANESTHESIA NECESSARY?

Other reasons for anesthesia in older animals can include traumatic injuries (something that requires bandaging and splinting, or a wound that needs flushing or suturing), ear cleanings (in painful, inflamed ears), and tumor removal (both benign and cancerous tumors occur more commonly in older animals).

There are several common reasons your older animal might require anesthesia. Probably the most familiar is regular teeth cleaning, which is very important. I’m a big fan of regular dental cleanings, as it gets rid of chronic infection and inflammation.

Having the proper procedure done will remove infection from the mouth and save your animal’s teeth.

There is simply no reason for animals to stay groggy all day and go home still suffering from the effects of anesthesia.

If your doctor properly screens your animal beforehand, there is little risk in anesthetizing him for teeth cleaning. In my practice, I do a comprehensive physical examination and laboratory testing (blood and/or urine testing) to make sure the animal does not have any underlying disorders that might complicate the anesthetic procedure. Having said this, at

DIFFERENT KINDS OF ANESTHETIC If your vet feels unable to give anesthesia to an older animal, look for one who does a lot of geriatric medicine. After all, no one veterinarian can do everything. If your vet is willing to perform geriatric anesthesia, find out what kind of anesthetic he plans to use. I use a holistic approach in my practice. This means I vary the medication depending on the results of the examination and laboratory tests. Because I want the animal to be asleep for as short a time as possible, the anesthetic I use allows him to wake up immediately after I finish the procedure.

There is simply no reason for animals to stay groggy all day and go home still suffering from the effects of anesthesia.

Clients who come to my practice often tell me that their animals had bad experiences with anesthesia in the past. Usually this involved a prolonged recovery from the procedure – many

DON’T FEED YOUR PET!

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hours or even a few days! After reading the medical records, I frequently discover that the anesthetic used was a combination of ketamine, xylazine, or thiopental. While these can be used safely (moreso in younger animals), they are notorious for prolonged and sometimes violent recoveries. I discourage their routine use in most animals, especially older ones. I believe that for most procedures, the animal should recover quickly from anesthesia. This is easily done by relying mainly on gas anesthesia (such as isoflurane or sevoflurane) and by carefully monitoring the animal’s vital signs during the procedure. In my practice, most animals can be discharged within minutes of waking up, and go right home and have a normal day.

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Remember that old age is not a disease. Our senior animals deserve quality health care, regardless of age. Your animal is never “too old” to be treated properly, and older healthy animals are not at increased risk from anesthesia. Even most of those with stable geriatric diseases do well under a holistic anesthetic regimen. By matching the anesthesia with the animal, and using other supportive care (such as fluid therapy) when necessary, senior animals can have anesthesia done safely whenever it’s needed to assist in treating a variety of medical problems.

DR. SHAWN MESSONNIER IS THE AUTHOR OF The Allergy Solution for Dogs, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, AND THE AWARD-WINNING The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. HIS VETERINARY PRACTICE, PAWS & CLAWS ANIMAL HOSPITAL, IS LOCATED IN PLANO, TEXAS.

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S

animal communication Seneca learns that forgiveness is forever

by Sharon Callahan Seneca, named after the stoic philosopher, was the most unadoptable dog imaginable. Scars and broken teeth indicated the old boxer-pitbull mix was a fighter. His hindquarters and tail were scabby and hairless, he had severe arthritis and advanced testicular cancer. Brought to the shelter as a stray, he went unclaimed until his waiting period was up. The resident vet declared he was near death.

One fateful day, he was reluctantly taken to the euthanasia room, where something astonishing happened. The shelter personnel, sensing he was “just not ready to go,” simply couldn’t give him the injection. Seneca was reprieved to “hang out” in the office for awhile, but “the rules” could not be bent indefinitely. A concerned rescuer made a desperate call to Patricia Leslie and Karl Smith – a couple who were among the few people she knew willing to “hospice-foster” a terminally ill dog. Patricia and Karl did not hesitate to offer Seneca a safe haven. Days later, the testicular tumors were surgically removed and “Sennie” pulled through with surprising vigor.

and a bedtime cuddle. We also call on Sharon to communicate telepathically with our animals, and did the same for Sennie.”

When I connected with Seneca, I found him very sensitive and responsive. He never wanted to be a fighter, but was taunted and brutalized into it. In the end, abandoned, he felt himself to be a complete failure. He had never been allowed to befriend other dogs, nor was he able to meet the expectations of the humans who wanted him to be a vicious fighter.

“Sharon, Karl and I spoke to Sennie about his true nature as a loving, sensitive creature, not the brutal fighter he had been forced to become,” says Patricia. Soon Seneca began to relax.

His ability to receive love increased, he gained weight, and his beautiful brindled coat grew in glossy.

Healing Sennie’s past

Over the following months, we were able to assure Seneca that nothing that happened in the past was his fault and that he would never be a failure in the eyes of Patricia and Karl. We let him know that whatever time he had left was going to be beautiful, loving and accepting of his true desires and wants.

“Our hospicing approach is simple,” says Patricia. “We include fresh water, nutritious food and treats, flower essences, palliative supplements, short walks, brushing, petting, T-touch, kind words

We also began flower essence therapy focused on facilitating forgiveness. Seneca needed to forgive the mistreatment he had received from humans in his past, and to also forgive himself

Karl spends quality time with Seneca during the dog's final days.

Flower essences to facilitate forgiveness Hyssop — forgiveness

Love-lies-bleeding — rememberance Olive — hope

Oregon grape — trusting the intentions of others Passion flower — sacrifice Peony — light

Shasta lupine — perseverance

Wild rose — when the thorns of life have been too sharp

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for harming other animals in fights. He responded beautifully, and each day became more loving and peacefully accepting.

Seneca’s anxiety was dissolving, and he was openly grateful for the opportunity to process and heal his past.

His final journey

“Eight months after his arrival, we could tell that despite all our love and care Sennie’s tumors were growing and spreading,” says Patricia. Because he had been brutalized and tormented early in his life, Seneca had learned to be very stoical. Being able to communicate with him telepathically was invaluable in assessing his comfort level as his condition progressed.

“He told us his arthritis pain was causing him increasing discomfort. He became weak, unwilling to walk, and unable to settle down and relax at night. The vet said he might have two months at most before he went naturally from organ breakdown, but during that time, his immobility and pain would continue to worsen.” It seemed it was time for Seneca to be freed of his worn-out body. He communicated he wanted to enjoy a few more days, and then depart before the internal pain became very bad.

Thanks to our communication and flower essences, Sennie was spiritually and psychologically prepared to make his transition.

“We put a foam pad in the shade of our backyard apple tree, and gave him five more days of lazy afternoons, immersing himself in the world’s smells and sounds,” Patricia recalls. “I described the afterlife to Sennie, visualizing the Celtic ‘Isle of Apples,’ a beautiful island of eternal summer, where apple trees grow, covered with blossoms and fruit.” On a day in mid-July, Patricia and Karl spent all day with Seneca under the apple tree. Patricia made a garland from all the flowers blooming around the house, and Sennie wagged his tail when she put it around his neck. At the last, he radiated nothing but love, trust, and dignity as he made his final journey.

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“Hospice-fostering is never easy,” says Karl. “But the chance to know and love this smart, brave, affectionate dog was its own reward. And it was so gratifying to know that those eight brief months, lived out in a safe, peaceful, caring home, were not merely a postponement of death, but Sennie’s opportunity to finally experience the fulfillment of being a cherished and nurtured companion.” sol mates™ scarves are: SHARON CALLAHAN IS A WORLD-RENOWNED ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR AND THE CREATOR

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47

Ten lessons I learned from my dog

by Katy Rosolowski

E

ach animal that comes into your life brings you different gifts. When my sheltie, Hogan, joined our family at age nine, his gift to me was his teachings. The schooling began in April of 2002 when his spleen ruptured, full of cancer, requiring emergency surgery. The lab results were grim and the prognosis grave, with a life expectancy of four to eight months.

Consumed with fear and grief, I put my friends and family on red alert.

There was no treatment or cure for his type of cancer, so all we could do was keep his immune system as strong as possible. My caring vet helped me research healthful options, but I obsessed and worried about whether I was giving Hogan the best chance for quality of life during his remaining few months. I waited and watched for his decline.

Two months after his diagnosis, we were due to go to Alaska on a two-week trip that had taken us three years to plan. How could we go in good conscience and leave Hogan behind? I struggled with guilt until I realized Hogan wanted us to have a normal

Hogan’s top ten lessons 1. Greet each day with joy.

2. Increase your capacity to love.

3. Be patient.

4. Be grateful.

5. Respect others.

6. Do not dwell on your limitations, but instead count your blessings.

7. Be compassionate.

8. Be tolerant.

9. Focus on the present and live in the moment.

10. Worry less and laugh more.

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life. He wasn’t going to stop living and he didn’t want us to, either.

our younger dog, Hogan was a comfort to us in our sorrow. I stopped feeling sorry for myself and started feeling excited about another day together.

When we returned from Alaska, I started to notice how Hogan never complained. He never regretted the past or fussed about the future. He simply focused on the present.

Totally unencumbered by the complexity of thought, he didn’t study his medical reports or even wonder what tomorrow might bring.

Hogan never worried at all.

When we became a “meow-bark household” with the rescue and adoption of a Lab named Abby and an orphaned kitten, Bucksnort, we worried about stressing Hogan. But he amazed us. Instead of withdrawing, he drew new energy from these wild ’n crazy youths, and found joy and stimulation in his new companions. And because we were focusing less emotion on Hogan, he became more light-hearted.

He also showed us how to age with dignity and grace. He never dwelled on his limitations. This really got my attention. Besides his battle with Katy and Hogan share one of many special cancer, he was getting very geriatric. At age 14, moments.

John Lennon once said, “Life is what happens he had difficulty getting up and walking, and when you’re busy making other plans.” I’ve learned there are he couldn’t see or hear very well. But he loved to smell the fresh certain times when you cannot plan ahead. So I stopped air, feel the breezes, walk slowly and savor the sensations around trying to be in control and started to think about the mystery him. He loved to eat and be scratched behind the ears. of life, and of being able to let go of someone you love. Many people know about Hogan’s cancer, and when they ask how Hogan approached each day with courage and spirit. Seeing he’s doing, I tell them that his bags are packed, but we haven’t his strength of character made me aware of my own attitudes. left for the airport yet.

It took me a long time to realize that he was teaching me how to approach my own life with more gratitude and joy. When Even on his bad days, Hogan lifts our spirits. The way he sighs we suffered the loss of my father-in-law, a favorite aunt and L

Nationally Recognized Veterinarian Shares His Personal Cancer Story Harry Quick, DVM

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NOW AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC! ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Harry L. Quick DVM practiced veterinary medicine in Suburban Chicago for thirty years. His other accomplishments were the invention of and research for the “90 day flea tag”. He was also instrumental in the development of Cycle Dog Food.

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and shuffles around reminds me of Walter Mathau in Grumpy Old Men. The more ornery he acts, the cuter he gets!

Hogan has also taught me the value of being a caring presence for others. My work in an animal clinic connects me with many other animal lovers. I’ve learned how to be with them, especially when they are struggling with how and when to say goodbye to their own companions.

But Hogan’s greatest gift was to teach me the need to pay attention. I guess I haven’t fully learned it yet, because he’s still with me. As I write this, 793 days have passed since Hogan’s diagnosis. I understand the miracle of his presence, but I’m still scrambling to comprehend his lessons.

I’ve stopped worrying about how much time we have left, and instead started counting the blessings of each “bonus” day. Hogan’s journey with cancer has been full of love. If I can remember just one of his lessons, it would be to greet each day with joy and gratitude. The adage “please let me be more like the person my dog thinks I am” is not enough for me. I want to be more like my dog.

Hogan truly is my hero.

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ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Inside this issue:

• Animal Communicators • Animal Health Care • Holistic Veterinarians

• Internet E-Tailers • Natural Product Manufacturers • Shelters & Rescues

Usui Reiki Master & IET (Integrated Energy Therapy) Practitioner - energy healing with Love

Animal Communicators

NORTH CAROLINA

ARIZONA

Animal Energy Lynn McKenzie Sedona, AZ USA Phone: 416-219-3803 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Web site: www.animalenergy.com International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing

CALIFORNIA

209-586-9215

Pets Point of View Yucca Valley, CA USA Phone: 760-365-7472 Email: ocotillo@e-universe.com www.alternativesforanimals.com/ask-an-expert.html Grief support, Behavior problems, Tutoring for Animal Communicators. Helping Pets & People.

COLORADO

Sue Hopple Monument, CO USA Phone: (719) 481-3917 Email: hop_house@msn.com Behavioral, health and lost animals. Workshops/Lectures.

Shamanic Practitioner.

ILLINOIS

Kim Ogden-Avrutik, Dr.P.H Highland Park, IL USA Phone: 847-681-8743 Email: animalspeak@cs.com Web site: www.kimogden.com Carol Schultz Plainfield, IL USA Phone: 815-254-8325 Email: carol@carolschultz.com Web site: www.carolschultz.com Nationwide consultations, Workshops/Training

Janet M. Hicks Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: 323-292-4597

Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Syracuse, NY USA Phone: 315-329-0116

KENTUCKY

Tera Thomas Pittsboro, NC USA Phone: 919-742-5929 Email: hummingbirdfarm@mindspring.com Web site: www.hummingbirdfarm.org Classes & Consultations, Author of: Opening my wings to fly; What animals have taught me

ONTARIO

Sue Becker Kitchener, ON Canada Phone: 519-896-2600 Email: suebecker@cyg.net Reg’d. Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch

Jim Prudom Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 570-9150

Wellness Resource Guide

Wellness Resource Guide

NEW YORK

Therapeutic Touch, Craniosacral, Flower Essences, Tellington Ttouch

PENNSYLVANIA

Jane Crowley Harrisburg, PA USA Phone: 717-652-6099 Healing solutions for animals and their human companions

TEXAS

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Specializing in health issues.

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NEW JERSEY Jane Ellen Plotkin Santa Monica, CA USA Phone: 310-581-0902 Email: janeellenplotkin@earthlink.net Jean Connelly Companion Animal Care Sherman Oaks, CA USA Phone: 818-785-4218 Email: jeanconnelly@earthlink.net

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Wellness Resource Guide

Animal Communicators - Holistic Veterinarians

Animal Healthcare

ILLINOIS

CALIFORNIA

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Dyanna McCain, DVET HOM Holistic Animal Healing Santa Monica, CA USA Phone: 310-863-2300 Email: parislivery@dslextreme.com Specializing in Homeopathy & Nutrition

NEW MEXICO

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OHIO

Integrated Touch Therapy Circleville, OH USA Toll Free: 740-474-2625 Phone: 800-251-0007 Web site: www.integratedtouchtherapy.com Animal Massage Workshops

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Dr. Mary Anne Staples, BA, DC, CAC Cavan, ON Canada Phone: 705-944-5439 Email: staples4@trytel.net Chiropractic services for all animals

CONNECTICUT

Sally Sizer Westbrook, CT USA Phone: 860-399-5634 Email: cinderbin@snet.net TTouch, Aromatherapy, Reiki for pets

IDAHO

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54 animal wellness - Holistic Veterinarians

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What’s Gnu? Take the Nature Challenge!

Preserving the environment is one way to help animals of all kinds, both in the wild and in our homes. The David Suzuki Foundation, founded by award-winning scientist, environmentalist and broadcaster Dr. David Suzuki, is a non-profit organization that works towards balancing human needs with the Earth’s ability to sustain all life.

“What can I do?” is one of the most frequently asked questions the Foundation receives from the public. To help you make environmentally sustainable decisions, the organization has researched the ten most effective ways you can conserve nature. Take the Nature Challenge by signing up online at www.davidsuzuki.org and doing at least three of the ten listed actions. The animals will thank you!

For the record

Imagine having access to your companion’s health records 24/7. You can do it with Pet Health Records, an online health record data service from Pet Event Network. For a nominal membership fee, you can create a record of your animal’s medical history, track vet visits, set up appointment reminders, and keep an observation log. The record is invaluable for times when you can’t contact your vet, whether you’re traveling or dealing with a midnight emergency, and is also ideal for printing and giving to pet sitters and other caregivers. www.pethealthrecords.com

Lost and found

Millions of dogs and cats go missing each year, but fewer than 10 percent are reunited with their guardians due to inadequate ID. Finder Products helps ensure your beloved companion doesn’t become another statistic with its new PetFINDER Lost Pet Retrieval System. The system includes a collar tag with a 24-hour toll-free number that people can call if they find your animal. They’ll first hear a recorded message from you (which you can update and change as often as you like), then instructions for instantly accessing your contact numbers. www.finderproducts.com

Custom made diets

Yes, it’s true! You can now get custom designed diets for your dog or cat. Thanks to advanced manufacturing processes, unique software, and professional advice from an animal nutritionist, Nature’s Link can create a fresh, healthy, natural diet that caters specifically to your animal’s individual needs, whether he’s dealing with a particular health problem, or simply needs to lose a bit of weight. The food is shipped fresh frozen directly to you and your companion. www.natureslink.ca

Venison for variety

Regularly feeding your dog or cat different flavors not only keeps his taste buds happy but also provides him with a variety of proteins and nutrients. If your animal is on raw food, you’ll be pleased to know that Nature’s Variety has added a new Raw Frozen Venison Diet to its line.

As with the company’s other food products, the venison diet is made from fresh, quality meat and is rich in enzymes, low in carbohydrates and contains no grains. The product is available in three and six-pound sizes. www.naturesvariety.com

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Water, water everywhere…

by Ann Brightman

M

Most of us know how important it is to ensure our animals have access to fresh water 24/7.

Water is vital to all living beings – it keeps the body hydrated, enhances cell and organ function, aids the lymphatic system, and flushes away toxins. “Water is probably the most important nutrient in the body,” says veterinarian Dr. Paul McCutcheon of Toronto.

“It’s absolutely essential to the maintenance of good health.” Inadequate water consump-

but is it good for him to drink?

tion can lead to many disorders, from skin problems and constipation to urinary tract infections and kidney disease. In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to say that water is the true elixir of life, especially when you consider that both humans and animals can live a lot longer without food than they can without

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water. But there’s a problem. Widespread environmental pollution, along with overworked or outdated water treatment facilities in many regions, is undermining the quality of our drinking water. The water coming from your tap may look and taste pure, but chances are it contains chemicals and contaminants you may not even be aware of. Along with the ubiquitous chlorine, tap water has been found to contain varying traces of everything from lead, nitrates and salts to fluoride, arsenic and numerous pesticides. Even if these toxins appear in only trace amounts, they can accumulate in your animal’s body and contribute to health problems, including cancer and neurological conditions. And because our animals are smaller than we are, they’re more at risk from the effects of these toxins.

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Put your water to the test “We were stunned when our cat, Cisco, was diagnosed with cancer when he was just seven,” says Marjory. “We were feeding him a natural diet, and never used chemical cleaners or pesticides. It wasn’t until we had our water tested and found it had traces of agricultural chemicals that we made the connection.” Marjory and her husband subsequently invested in a reverse osmosis system that would remove these harmful substances from their water. “We can’t reverse Cisco’s cancer, but we can at least help protect him from more damage, and protect our own health too.” Marjory’s story isn’t unusual. No matter where you live, whether you’re on a well or a municipal system, a

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You can also get products designed especially for your animal companion. Examples include the Ergosys Filtered Pet Waterer, which filters out particles and heavy metals and prevents algae growth. A pump aerates the water to keep it fresh and oxygenated. The Drinkwell Pet Fountain

by Veterinary Ventures, meanwhile, aerates the water with a small “fountain” of water, while a charcoal filter removes unsavory tastes and odors. These products are ideal for dogs and cats who don’t drink as much as they should, since many animals are naturally attracted by moving, oxygenated water.

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Also available are specialized water products such as Hydro Dog, an electrolyte drink for dogs. “It’s made from pure water and is a natural electrolyte supplement with calcium, potassium and magnesium,” says Marvin Love, who created the product along with his wife, Rona. “It not only replenishes trace minerals lost through activity, stress or illness, but also keeps your dog hydrated.”

RPA Biotech Electrolyzed Plus Concentrate from Dr. Fleetwood Enterprises is a liquid solution that enhances the benefits of filtered water. The product acts as an antioxidant and also features a high pH level. “One of our problems in North America is that our bodies, and those of our animals, tend to be too acidic,” says Ross Fleetwood. “This product raises the alkaline or pH level, which is much healthier.”

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a water purifier is a wise investment in the health of your human and animal families.

The first step is to get your water tested. You can either buy a home testing kit, or have the analysis done by an independent water testing laboratory. For the best accuracy, the latter is the best way to go, but it can be costly depending on what you want done. A basic coliform test costs around $10 or $12, but a comprehensive analysis that covers the gamut of toxins, pesticides and metals can run into the hundreds of dollars, since a separate test has to be done for

each contaminant. To find out what options are available in your area, contact your local health department or water utility.

Make sure the lab you use is certified, and carefully follow their instructions for collecting and delivering the sample.

Home water testing kits vary in quality and what they test for. Some only look for bacteria, iron, chlorine or lead, while others can also detect nitrates, arsenic and up to a dozen different pesticides. Many also test the hardness and pH levels of your water. The kits cost from around $10 to $40, so they’re an economical investment, but they won’t give you the same level of accuracy as a lab test.

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Many people opt to give their animals bottled spring water. You can also choose from one of the many brands and types of water filters and purifiers on the market, but it’s important to do your homework first. Products can range from less than $50 for a basic faucet mount filter, to $250 and up for a reverse osmosis or distillation system. Here’s a look at some of the available options.

Reverse osmosis One of the most expensive but effective ways to purify water, reverse osmosis involves forcing water through a semipermeable membrane that filters out particles and bacterial cysts. It can clean the water of harmful organisms such as giardia, toxoplasma and crytospordium as well as salts, dyes, nitrates, proteins and toxins like lead and fluoride. It also improves the taste and color of the water.

“Reverse osmosis is probably the best for your animal,” says Dr. McCutcheon.

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Distillation involves heating the water until it boils. The pure water then turns to steam and is captured in a condenser where it goes back to a liquid, leaving behind contaminants such as heavy metals, chemicals and other impurities.

Distillation is especially effective for killing off bacteria and viruses. One of the drawbacks is that it tends to remove the good with the bad. “There are good minerals that aren’t present

in distilled water,” says Dr. McCutcheon. “You’d have to compensate for that with good supplementation, although sorting out exactly how to do that is a toughie.

I’d recommend either spring water or reverse osmosis over distillation.”

Filters A filter system is the most common and least expensive way to clean your water. You can select from models that mount directly on your faucet, stand on your countertop, or fit under the sink. Be aware that filters vary widely in what they can do. Some only remove chlorine or unwanted colors and tastes from the water, but don’t address other contaminants. More sophisticated systems will also help get rid of bacteria, chemicals and other undesirable particles. Most filters use activated carbon to absorb the toxins. You’ll need to replace the cartridges at regular intervals to keep the equipment working efficiently.

Although it’s easy to take water for granted, it’s crucial to your animal’s well being (and yours!). “Everything in the body is dependent on a good hydration level,” says Dr. McCutcheon. In fact, a plentiful supply of clean, fresh, pure water is one of the healthiest gifts you can offer your companion.

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The Pet Fund. . . helping animal guardians in need

T

by Karen Leslie Twelve-year-old Rebecca’s voice trembled as she poured out her story over the phone. Her Labrador needed surgery for bladder stones, but because her family couldn’t afford to pay for the operation, they were faced with having to take their much-loved dog to a shelter, where he would likely be euthanized.

Not only was this a life or death situation for the dog, but it would also be a devastating loss for Rebecca and her family.

It’s not an uncommon scenario. Because of financial problems caused by job loss, illness or injury, many people in Rebecca’s position must often make the difficult decision to have an animal euthanized or neglect important veterinary needs because of the cost of surgery or emergency vet visits. Millions of these animals end up being surrendered to shelters for medical reasons that range from heartworm and parvovirus to fractures, arthritis, pancreatitis, feline urinary tract disease, and diabetes. Shelters frequently have no option but to euthanize the animals, since their own budgets are limited at best and are generally reserved for younger animals that are considered more adoptable.

A helping hand Happily for Rebecca, an Internet search led her to The Pet Fund, a national non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to animal guardians who can’t afford veterinary care. She called for help, and as a result, her beloved Lab was able to get the surgery he needed, and to remain with his human family. While most of The Pet Fund’s callers are older than Rebecca, their needs are the same – they have a cherished animal in need of urgent medical care, but no way to pay the vet bills.

The Pet Fund is working towards a future where decisions about veterinary care need never be made on the basis of cost. The organization also educates people on how to avoid future medical and financial crises – and that is where it hopes to make the Top left: Dr. Linda Wallace of The Pet Fund examines Rusty the cat. Right: After encountering unexpected medical expenses for Mischa, Karen Leslie decided to start The Pet Fund to help others in similar circumstances.

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most impact. The Pet Fund helps each applicant develop his or her resources in order to become financially independent and educated about preventative care. It also links people to resources about savings plans, debt counseling agencies, pet insurance, and other valuable financial services. This information enables people to establish financial resources on their own and to avoid future emergencies through care and planning.

Who’s eligible for assistance?

care, and improving the economic stability of guardians and their communities – depends on this support from caring groups and individuals. Thanks to them, stories like Rebecca’s can be given a happy ending.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PET FUND, VISIT WWW.THEPETFUND.COM, E-MAIL INFO@THEPETFUND.COM, OR CONTACT KAREN LESLIE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE PET FUND, 1510 19TH STREET, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814, (916) 443-6007.

The application process starts either with a veterinarian referral, or with individuals who contact The Pet Fund directly. At that point, the participating veterinarian consults with staff regarding diagnosis, prognosis, and recommended treatment of the animal needing assistance. The most urgent cases are funded first, with other requests put on a waiting list for available funding.

The “triage” system for deciding which cases to fund is based on the financial need of the animal guardian, the opinion of the treating veterinarian as to the medical necessity and urgency of the treatment needed, and the capability of the guardians to be responsible for their animals. This last consideration is crucial, since there is a significant difference between people who are responsible but suffering financial difficulties, and those who view their animal as an unnecessary expense. It’s important to realize that it’s not always the latter who drop their animals off at a shelter – often it is the caring guardian who feels they have no other choice. It is these people that The Pet Fund can work with and help.

The Pet Fund is supported by private, corporate, and foundation donations.

Each donation dramatically increases the number of animals the organization is able to help, and also improves its ability to promote its services and extend its help to additional communities. The Pet Fund’s mission – alleviating animal suffering, educating animal guardians about preventative animal wellness

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The dilemma of

breed discrimination

by Robert Ferber and Sharis Khachatourian

A woman and her toy poodle are walking down the street when a large brown dog comes running from a yard and goes for them.

Before she can rescue her poodle, the pit bull attacks, fatally locking his jaws around the little dog’s neck. Her poodle dies and the traumatized woman is hospitalized with severe bites.

The pit bull is eventually euthanized but the guardian suffers little or no punishment. The incident is reported in the media as another “pit bull” attack, although the dog is actually a mix of several breeds. People are outraged and call for action.

But what action should be taken? Are these attacks as common as they seem? Are the breeds with a reputation for being dangerous or unpredictable really that way, or is there a misperception? It’s a complex and extremely emotional debate that’s currently raging worldwide.

What is breed specific legislation?

One controversial response is to pass “breed specific legislation” (BSL), laws that apply to certain breeds believed to be especially dangerous, and which require special legislation to protect society. The most commonly targeted breeds are varieties of pit bulls such as the American pit bull, Staffordshire terrier, and mastiff, although more recent efforts have also targeted German shepherds, Dobermans, chow chows, Rottweilers, Akitas and Sharpeis.

This legislation comes in a variety of forms. In Hollywood, Florida, pit bull guardians are required to have at least $25,000 liability insurance coverage. Meanwhile, some places – like the province of Ontario – have imposed or are considering a wholesale pit bull ban. Vancouver and Coquitlam in British Columbia have officially declared “pit bulls” dangerous and have imposed strict regulations.

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Midland, Ontario, meanwhile, currently requires “pit bulls,” mastiffs and Rottweilers to be muzzled at all times.

But will this legislation really reduce or eliminate vicious attacks, or does it simply punish a breed for the irresponsible actions of its guardian? And is the legislation based upon accurate information about these breeds? How do you even define which dogs are covered, considering the mixing of breeds? For example, there is no such breed as “pit bull” – it’s just a term loosely used to describe a number of breeds that may look alike but are in reality different breeds. Finally, how much mastiff, American pit bull or other fighting breed does a dog have to have in him to be restricted under these laws?

Humans have created the problem The dog breeds we see today have almost all come from deliberate cross-breeding to bring out certain characteristics for a particular reason – whether it’s the small “lap dog” whose only purpose, albeit a noble one, is to provide comfort; the Rottweiler and shepherd, bred to provide protection and serve military and law enforcement purposes; or fighting breeds such as Staffordshires and pit bulls, which were specifically bred for fighting one another for sick entertainment value.

Before humans interfered, dogs were chiefly a “spin-off” of the wolf. Our prehistoric ancestors allowed these dogs to congregate at the perimeters of their campsites to provide protection and warning in exchange for food and a warm place near the fire.

But people soon learned that cross-breeding could bring out certain desirable characteristics and eliminate the unwanted ones. Breed a small dog with a protective predisposition with a bigger but gentler dog, and eventually you’ll get a large guard

Photo provided by: Grand Kamarie Kennels, Atlanta

legal beagle

legal beagle dog. All breeds are basically a result of that process. So humanity must acknowledge its ultimate responsibility for the breeds we fear.

BSL…the “yay” side The proponents of BSL point to vicious and deadly attacks as evidence that these dangerous breeds are too capable of injuring or killing to be allowed in society. They feel a ban is necessary because these breeds have a built-in killing ability that makes them something other than a companion animal. How can we call them domesticated animals if they are predisposed to cause serious injury or death? Even an undisciplined golden retriever or terrier with an irresponsible guardian is less likely to cause the same injuries as a so-called dangerous breed.

Proponents also argue that fighting breeds are empowering street gangs and other hoodlums who use the animals to intimidate and further their criminal purposes.

Some people also stress that BSL is necessary for the protection of the breed, stating that without it, people will use the dogs for ignoble purposes and that the ultimate victim is the dog, who is horribly neglected, beaten, abused or euthanized. Indeed, most of my own criminal prosecutions for horrible criminal neglect involved mixed American pit bulls, Staffordshire terriers and Rottweilers. Those in favor of the legislation say it will prevent or reduce people’s ability to use these dogs for fighting, an extremely underestimated problem in the United States.

Some proponents argue for muzzling or permits while others want to see a complete ban, claiming that nothing else will protect society.

The leading insurance companies in the United States already refuse to insure families with these breeds. Some limit their new rules to “pit bull” type dogs and Rottweilers, while others include previously untargeted breeds, forcing families to relinquish or euthanize their dogs in order to obtain necessary homeowners insurance.

The case against BSL Those who oppose BSL feel that the legislation assumes unproven facts, first and foremost that fighting dogs are the same as protective dogs. While pit bull types, chows and Sharpeis were bred for fighting, other targeted breeds such as the Rottweiler and shepherd were never used in fighting and were bred for protection and guarding instincts, as well as being obedient and relatively easy to train. As well, fighting dogs such as the American pit bull are actually not predisposed to attack people and are rated extremely high as companion animals by kennel and breeder associations. Think about it… a dog cannot be a successful fighter if it is people-aggressive, since a typical dog fight requires people to be in the “pit” with the animals.

It’s worth noting that both “fighting” and “protective” breeds statistically cause the least number of bites. Chihuahuas actually

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legal beagle top the list as the dog causing the most bites to humans!

(Furthermore, my 20 years of experience in animal rescue suggests that if you asked 40 trainers, rescuers, breeders and animal control officers about the predispositions of different breeds, you’d get 40 different answers.) Opponents of BSL feel the media gives undue attention to the relatively small number of attacks by controversial breeds because the injuries tend to be severe and therefore gain more of an audience for the evening news.

Opponents also say that municipalities are partly to blame for not enacting stiff laws and imposing harsh penalties for those who allow their dogs off leash. They feel that BSL punishes the breed instead of

the irresponsible guardian, and that it will also empower insurance companies to further discriminate. Finally, in the case of mixed breeds, they claim it is impossible to identify which dogs belong to which breed. The legislation must use an objective standard and be specific enough to let people know if their dog is affected by these laws. Otherwise, the law could be held unconstitutional as being vague or overly broad, and might target dogs that need never be affected by BSL, simply because they have some small amount of “pit bull” in their makeup. How do you decide how much Doberman is in a poodle mix before it’s no longer a poodle but a targeted Doberman? And who should make these decisions?

Irresponsible guardians should be penalized

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I believe that breed-specific legislation is wellintentioned, but a mistake. The assumptions used to justify BSL are unsupported by facts, and the laws will inevitably target dogs that don’t have the predispositions we fear so much.

But I also strongly believe that communities must take action and not accept the status quo.

Communities must strictly enforce off-leash, licensing and spay/neuter laws and give harsher penalties to those who irresponsibly allow their dogs to be a danger to the community. In many places, judges impose $10 fines or dismiss these so-called “minor violations” (e.g., failing to spay/neuter or allowing dogs to roam at large), even in the face of tragedies like the infamous Whipple case, where a woman in San Francisco was killed by two Presa Canarias because the guardian couldn’t control the dogs. I believe the criminal justice system already has the tools to reduce and prevent these problems. It simply calls for the enforcement of current laws with strict penalties for violators.

As the debate rages on, only time will only tell what solutions will successfully satisfy the needs of society while protecting the rights of both guardians and dogs, which are ultimately the true victims of humankind’s manipulation of evolution.

BOB FERBER HAS BEEN A LOS ANGELES PROSECUTOR FOR 24 YEARS, AND HAS RECENTLY BEGUN FOCUSING EXCLUSIVELY ON ANIMAL ABUSE AND NEGLECT CASES.

HE ALSO RESCUES AND “UNADOPTABLE” ANIMALS

FOSTERS

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More herbs and fewer drugs is the natural solution for horses

By Loryhl Davis

M

any people feel performance horses and drugs go hand in hand. But there are more natural ways you can help your equine athlete perform his best.

On a nutritional level, horses are herbivores so it makes sense that herbs provide optimum compatibility with their systems.

Left to his own devices in the wild, your equine friend is a natural herbalist who daily ingests plants that support good health. Closer to home, however, the task of finding and using the correct herbs at the appropriate time is left up to us.

It is and has been the norm to go quickly to the “fast fix”; get the horse back in training or competing with faster-acting drugs.

What most people don’t realize, however, is that not giving the horse time to heal or time to mature causes even more damage.

In my experience, people give their horses herbs for two to six weeks and then go back to drugs because the herbal solution wasn’t working fast enough, in some cases.

Two to six weeks simply is not long enough. Sometimes exacting a permanent change can take three months or even three years in older horses. I have seen “yard ornament” horses, no longer useful due to navicular, ringbone, tendon bows, and various types of crippling, come back and be useful and pain-free after three years of herbs, usually administered in combination with laser therapy, flower essences, homeopathy, acupuncture and massage as well as a natural or no shoes lifestyle. Numerous horses fall into this category. Perseverance is important too, since sometimes it takes a while to find out what works, and incorporate it into the diet and routine.

With proper encouragement through herbal nutrition, live foods, sunlight and fresh water, the cells of the horse’s body will return to a healthy functional state, and the aging process will slow down, halt or even reverse, in many cases.

Not all practitioners understand this. Unfortunately, Western animal wellness

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medicine does not always address the true functions and workings of the body. A person may go to an orthopedic specialist for back problems and bone problems.

However, that person may need to consult a gastro-enterologist as well, since it’s probable that the digestion is far too acidic and causing the bone problems. Then a nutritionist is needed, and a chiropractor or naturopath, to balance the body further. Many of these important and crucial links to the body are missed, in horse, human and animal care. The practitioners simply don’t have enough information to connect the whole biological process together as a working, inter-dependent whole. The organs of either horse or human are not functioning alone, with each one separate in a jar on a shelf. Each organ, gland and body system is intertwined and related in an unbreakable, beautifully functioning chain, providing life, energy and usefulness.

After 24 years, I realize it’s not always possible to have a completely drugless competitive horse. Sometimes drugs are needed or wanted. You should constantly look to what is best for the horse, consulting with vets prior to competing, improving diet and overall health and looking for better combinations of herbs as you go.

Each horse, human and animal is different. Let’s consider horses with Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH) or Bleeders, for example. Bleeders do not always bleed for the same reasons. It can result from genetics, overuse of drugs, running a turf horse on the grass or a grass horse on the turf, emotional stress, fear, or shoeing (including contracted hooves – contracted frog and contracted bulbs of the hoof). Many horses would not hemorrhage from the lungs if they raced shoeless, or were run in temporary shoes.

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However, even though the cause of the bleeding may be different, we have found that one herbal combination (see below) works on many horses to alleviate, or stop the symptoms of EIPH. This program also increases the resiliency to which the horse responds after a stressful event, as well as allowing the horse to breathe more efficiently.

The liver is another focal point to consider in EIPH. In Chinese medicine, a doctor

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Herbs for EIPH or horses with respiratory difficulty • Yarrow • rose hips • cranesbill • agrimony • shepherds purse • parsley leaf • horehound • nettle • beth root • lungwort • burdock root • beet root • dandelion root • bladderack • camomile • dulse • tienchi bark • Schizandra berries.

This combination, in correct and synergistic amounts given as a daily tonic, will assist every organ and system in the body to build, heal, and gently detoxify with special emphasis on building quality blood, tissue, liver and lungs.

Use at least two times daily while in heavy training, racing or competition.

A herbal bronchio dialator, such as the following Chinese herbs, is an outstanding alternative to use, along with or instead of the drug, clembuterol: gui zhi, jie geng, huang qi, dan sheng. nan sha shen, bei sha shen, chuan jiao pi, tian qui, kun bu, xian he cao These herbs increase oxygen to blood, helping the horse breathe more efficiently.

always looks closely at the liver in lung-related complaints.

For performance horses, there are many reasons to use a “program” when dealing with serious issues. For example, a close look at the feed, water, supplements, amount of drugs used and for what reason, mental, emotional state of the horse and even who’s taking care of him affects all the aspects of his health and ability to compete at top levels of performance. Many horses are showing up with grain “allergies” because they’ve been overfed grain. Cutting down on grain and using other alternatives, such as herbs, a little rice bran, soaked beet pulp, and quality hay works best with most horses. Each horse is unique and different so get a complete health picture by talking to your holistic vet, massage therapists and herbalists.

You can use programs for any type of horse for any reason, or just to maintain optimum health. Herbs are good for horses, when used with knowledge and discipline.

LORYHL DAVIS

24 YEARS AND HERBS OF THE WORLD. SHE LECTURES ON HERBS THROUGHOUT NORTH AMERICA, AND CONTRIBUTES ARTICLES TO A VARIETY OF PUBLICATIONS. HERBS OF THE WORLD HAS RECENTLY OPENED A NATURAL FARM STORE AND MAY BE CONTACTED AT (743) 780-7333 OR BY EMAIL: WWW.EQUI-ANIMALHERBS.COM/INDEX.HTML HAS BEEN A PRACTICING HERBALIST FOR

FORMULATES FOR HER COMPANY,

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animal passages

An

unexpected gift

by Lida Sideris

S

ome friendships arrive suddenly, unexpectedly, like a beam of sunlight through a shady grove. My 11-year-old son, Jordan, had set his heart on a bantam Cochin hen to be his new animal friend. Enamored by their sweet dispositions and heavily feathered legs and feet, Jordan was hoping she’d arrive in time for our County Fair, so that he could exhibit her as his very own show bird. Our 4H Poultry leader promised to find one.

Winter changed to spring, when finally, days before the fair, Coco (as Jordan named her) arrived. Her dark gray plumage and dainty cushion of a tail made her magnificent to gaze upon.

I was certain that underneath that feathery, basketball-sized hen was a little bird no bigger than my fist.

Unlike our other hens, who were working girls, either busily laying eggs or on garden patrol, this new arrival would be given her own private quarters with soft sand beneath her feet, and a cozy bed of pine shavings. She’d be pampered and fed gourmet mix. In short, she’d be the princess of our little “hendom.”

The rest of our chickens would eat, scratch and ignore us, except at mealtimes when they all raced to their feeders like Kentucky Derby thoroughbreds out of the starting gate. But Coco was different.

During morning feedings, instead of heading for her food dish, she lumbered after us (her profuse feathering didn’t promote speed), watching the other birds, chatting with them a bit, then continuing

Above: Shane with Coco as a surrogate mother to three Belgian Bearded D'Uccle chicks. Below: Jordan with Coco and Barto.

on at our heels. While the other chickens energetically scolded or pecked their pals over frowned-upon behavior like failing to share a tasty morsel, Coco readily invited the others to share her food. One shriek from her, and they’d come scrambling over. Kindness abounded in Coco.

For those moms who preferred to hit the daily grind, Coco willingly became a most agreeable surrogate mother, and raised several batches and breeds of chicks. Cooperation was no problem for Coco.

Having had several different show chickens since Coco’s arrival, I learned that all require patience and coaxing before warming up to their human friends. But Coco was our friend from the start. Jordan often carried her around with him, nestling her under his arm. Coco loved being cuddled and lap fed. There was nothing more calming to me than holding her in my lap and having a nice, long chat while sharing a tomato or apple. The advice I received when I felt out of sorts was invaluable. I could almost hear Coco saying: “Always give a new friend a chance before judging them.

Or, when angry, don’t speak until right thinking and calmness are restored.”

Coco was different...while the other chickens

energetically scolded or pecked their pals...Coco readily invited the others to share her food.

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Hoping to hatch a few little Cocos, we borrowed a mate from a friend. Barto was the beautiful male version of Coco. Due to all their fluff and feathering, no little ones

animal passages hatched, but no one seemed to mind. Coco was happy to have a new friend.

Just as Coco’s arrival came suddenly, so did her passing. One day she was strolling around, chatting with her pals, and the next morning she could barely move. Her breathing became labored; she wouldn’t eat or drink. Holding her in my lap, I tried vainly to feed her. She attempted to open her beak, but weakness overcame her. She slowly lowered her head, seemed to give one last sigh, and was gone.

We buried Coco that afternoon in a shady spot under an apple tree where she’d loved indulging in dust baths. Before leaving the yard, I stopped by her pen, half expecting to see her. Emptiness greeted me…almost. Buried beneath her bed of shavings, I spied two small, smooth objects. My heart skipped a beat. It couldn’t be! Two beige, oval eggs. I knew the chances of their being fertile was slim, but there happened to be a broody hen next door who might not mind sitting on them for awhile.

To our surprise and joy, three weeks later, out came two little Cochin chicks with fuzzy legs and feet! Coco’s final gift to us.

If, as Emerson stated, the ornament of the house is the friend who frequents it, then the ornament of the yard is the same. The kind, sweet, honest, enduring animal friend who effortlessly gives so much.

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chat room

A home for Sheena Kim: Did you have many human friends before you were brought to the shelter?

Sheena: Yes, a little boy and a girl. They were my friends.

Kim: Did you live inside with them?

Sheena: Not really. They fed me outside.

Kim: Did you ever live inside?

Sheena: Once. With a man and woman, but they were never around. I never had anything to do. When they came home, they tried to come close to me, but I ran away from them. [She shows me a picture of herself going into another room and hiding.]

Kim: Why did you do that?

S

by Dr. Kim Ogden-Avrutik, Dr.P.H. Sheena is a loving, lonely kitty who doesn’t feel very beautiful. When the man and woman she lived with (but were “never around”, as Sheena says) gave her to a second home, she was separated from her sister cat, and her heart was broken.

I’ve never met Sheena in person, nor have I read her shelter records. So how do I know these things about her? I’m an animal communicator. I send and receive intuitive messages to and from these divine creatures through thoughts, feelings and mental images.

Sheena is now living at the Northumberland Humane Society shelter in Port Hope, Ontario but would very much like to find the right home. This is an abridged version of a conversation I had with Sheena on October 6, 2004.

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Sheena: I didn’t know them! They were never home, and then they would come home and try to pick us up. [She shows me another cat.]

Kim: Was that your sister?

Sheena: Yes. She would let them pick her up, but I was scared. [She shows me a mental picture of hands reaching down for her face.]

Kim: Did you leave these people?

Sheena: No, they gave me to someone else.

Kim: Away from your sister?

Sheena: Yes. I miss her! She was the only one I liked. It breaks my heart.

Kim: How did you like your new home?

Sheena: I didn’t. The people were very noisy. There were so many people there!

[Sheena sends me an image of 8 to 12 people in a room.] And they would stay for a long while.

Sheena: Yes! And I didn’t know them!

I explained to Sheena that most people want to pick cats up and hold them because they are so beautiful and their fur is so soft. It is a way for people to show cats they like them and want to be their friend.

Sheena: Not these people! They were too loud! Those loud sounds made me scared!

Kim: So what did you do?

Sheena: One night I got out the door and I ran and ran.

Kim: Did you go outside with trees and grass?

Sheena: Yes! It was wonderful! But then I got very hungry and there was nothing to eat. I found some food inside a building but then there was a loud noise. [She sends me a sound like a door slamming.]

Then I couldn’t get outside.

Kim: How do you like it at the shelter?

Sheena: Not very much. There is nothing to do.

Kim: Would you like to live with people who stayed around and who you felt safe with?

Sheena: Would they be loud and scare me?

Kim: No. I don’t think the shelter would let you go home with noisy people who play loud music – not since you told me it scares you.

Sheena: That’s good.

Kim: So would you like a nice quiet man or woman to take you?

Kim: Were these people ever mean to you?

Sheena: Would they be around?

Sheena is quiet.

Kim: Do you want someone to be around?

Kim: Did they ever hit you?

Sheena: Yes. I’m very lonely.

Sheena: No.

Kim: How about a couple?

Kim: Kick you?

Sheena: Would they try to pick me up?

Sheena: Yes.

Kim: Only after they got to know you and you felt safe.

Kim: Did they ever try to pick you up?

chat room Sheena: Yes! Yes! Yes! Kim: What about another cat? [I pictured a male and then a female cat.]

Sheena: Yes, if they were nice to me.

Kim: A dog?

Sheena is quiet.

Kim: Is there anything else you would like to say to me?

Sheena: Can I leave [this place] now?

Sheena wants a home where there isn’t loud music playing all the time, and where people will try to be friends with her and not pick her up before she’s ready. Perhaps one day this new family will also help her realize that she is beautiful.

To adopt Sheena, please contact the Northumberland Humane Society at 877-885-4131 or www.northumberlandhumanesociety.com.

DR. KIM OGDEN-AVRUTIK HAS HELPED THOUSANDS OF ANIMALS AND THEIR HUMAN COMPANIONS. SHE WILL PROVIDE A FREE ONE-HOUR CONSULTATION (VALUE $120) TO THE PERSON OR PEOPLE WHO GIVE SHEENA A SUITABLE HOME. DR. KIM WILL ALSO GIVE ½-PRICE CONSULTATIONS TO THOSE WHO MEET THE NORTHUMBERLAND'S CRITERIA FOR LOVING HOMES AND WHO ADOPT AN ANIMAL BEFORE DECEMBER 15.

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Is your pet a little sensitive?

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As anyone who loves dogs can testify, it’s hard to stop at just one. But sharing your home with two or more pooches can generate extra challenges and problems. For example, how do you deal with jealousy or aggression when introducing a new dog? And how can you make sure you’re giving your buddies all the care and attention they need, yet still have a life of your own?

You’ll find the answers to these questions and others in Who Moved My Bone? – A Guide for Multi-Dog Households by Theresa Mancuso. The book first helps you determine if pack life is right for you, then covers everything from training and behavior to feeding, traveling, communing with your dogs, and helping them adjust when one of their “siblings” passes on.

Enjoyable and informative, Who Moved My Bone? is the perfect guide to becoming a successful “pack parent.”

Title: Reflections of the Heart Author: Deborah DeMoss Smith When Deborah DeMoss Smith’s vet suggested she contact animal communicator Sharon Callahan to help solve the mystery of her cat’s illness, the writer was so impressed by the experience that she was inspired to write a book about Sharon’s life and work. Reflections of the Heart – What Our Animal Companions Tell Us is both biography and a fascinating exploration of the world of animal communication.

The book traces Sharon’s life from her childhood, and shows how her intuitive connection with animals, together with two life-altering crises and a near death experience, led her to become an internationally renowned animal communicator. You’ll also read about the creatures Sharon has communed with, from Fiona, a feisty little cat who taught her guardians to lighten up, to Rudy, a border collie who promised his young human friend he would always be with her, even after death.

Reflections of the Heart makes inspiring and profound reading, while giving us an illuminating glimpse into the hearts, minds and souls of our animal friends.

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classifieds Animal Communicators LYNN McKENZIE, International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing. Create harmony and awareness in your relationships, restore health, improve behavior, enhance performance, resolve conflict, connect with animals that have crossed over. Workshops and lessons available. Coming soon, correspondence and internet training in Animal Energy Healing. www.animalenergy.com, lynn@animalenergy.com, (416) 219-3803.

CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide. Share your Love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults, email (315) 329-0116, angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org ANIMAL COMMUNICATION WITH LOVE – Alive, and in Spirit. Counseling (choosing a new friend, behaviors, illness, dying, grief, lost animals. Healing, Classes (including Tele-conference), Personal Guidance, Wisdom from your animals, dolphins, Totems and others. Affordable. Morgine (360) 247-7284 morgine@tds.net, www.communicationswithlove.com SUE BECKER – Interspecies Communication, Registered Practitioner of Tellington TTouch and Bach Flower Remedies. Resolve problems and stress, improve behaviour, deepen understanding and your relationship. Emotional healing.

Consultations by phone/in person, lectures, workshops. Call (519) 896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net I TALK TO THE ANIMALS! Rev Peggy Ray is featured regularly on radio & in newspapers.

Phone or in-person, live or in-spirit communication; Bach Flowers & essential oils. (732) 345 8394; www.celestialcreations.net or celestialcreations@comcast.net JANE CROWLEY – 13th year as an internationally known holistic health practitioner for animals and their human companions. Offering healing modalities suited to the situation. Recommended by vets and show people. Phone consultations/ home visits/classes – (717) 652-6099.

ANIMAL TELEPATH & HEALER: Tell your pets, alive or passed, of your love or ask things you’ve wanted to know. Address physical or emotional issues. Sessions include intuitive healing. Cindy Westen:www.chatswithanimals.com; (760) 533-4603; cwes10@earthlink.net.

ASSISI INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL INSTITUTE – Dedicated to promoting respect, reverence, and ethical stewardship for all animals through workshops and consciousness raising activities.

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JIM PRUDOM – INTERSPECIES COMMUNICATOR AND COUNSELLOR. Helping you and your animal companion to: resolve physical health and emotional/ behavioral issues, increase human-animal interaction and spiritual awareness. Deceased animals. Lost animals. Therapeutic Touch teacher and practitioner, craniosacral practitioner, flower essences, Tellington Ttouch.

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animal wellness

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION – If my cat/dog/ horse does that one more time, I’m going to (1) scream, (2) explode, (3) call Calloway M’Cloud, an experienced, professional animal communicator. Discover your animal friend’s perspective. Solve frustrating behavioral issues.

Consultations, healing sessions and workshops.

TOLLFREE (866) 249-2200, www.horscery.org.

PATRICE RYAN, PET PSYCHIC AND QI GONG HEALER, featured on FOX 11’s Lisa’s LA and “Ask the Expert.” Communicate with your pet present or past. www.celestialcrystals.com; (818) 241-2624; patrice@celestialcrystals.com

Animal Health HERBS OF THE WORLD – NATURAL PRODUCTS for pets: HIGHEST QUALITY HERBAL support – aging, tumours, nerves, digestion, respiratory, hair, coat, PREVENTATIVE HEALTH. (800) 96-HERBS(2373) WWW.PETHERBALIST.COM FURVANA – Holistic Animal Options offers certified Tellington TTouch and Reiki for all Companion Animals. Private sessions or workshops available. Contact Connie Riehl (419) 332-1937 or furvana@juno.com WHY FAR INFARED FOR YOUR PET? Scientists have discovered that the warming effects of Far Infared Rays can stimulate metabolism and improve circulation. Also promotes elimination of toxic substances that can cause pain and inflammation, improves lymphatics and skin conditions. Improves nutrient and oxygen absorption.

Regenerates new cells. Call (866) 256-9213 APAWTHECARY – Organic, wildcrafted human grade herbal products; Coat Spritz, Deodorant, Salves, Shampoo, extracts, immune support, Anti Viral. Restore your health naturally. Profits support Animal Rescue www.north-west-naturals.com NATURAL PET ITEMS AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY – We offer all natural pet food, treats, supplements and pet care products.

Business opportunity for pet professionals or people seeking home businesses. www.healthypetstop.com (800) 260-0173

Associations INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK Professional Assn. to support, network and promote complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, newsletter and insurance. Welcome practitioners of animal massage, acupressure, Vet’s, Vet Tech’s, Reiki, Animal Communication, Flower Essence, Aroma, Sound and Magnetics.

(419) 727-6917 www.IAAMB.org

Books, Publications & Videos SPECIES LINK The quarterly journal devoted to interspecies communication since 1990. Send $25 check made to Anima Mundi Incorporated, P.O. Box 1060, Pt. Reyes, CA 94956.

(415) 663-1247 Sample articles www.animaltalk.net.

SPEAK TO MY HEART! Take Carla Person’s Shamanic Animal Communication Workshop on DVD. Clear steps make it easy to learn. $34.95US includes CAN shipping. www.spirithealer.com/speak

Healing Essences CANADIAN FOREST TREE ESSENCES – 15 vibrational essences of exceptional quality for animal care, including Animal Whisper, Animal Rescue and Animal Restore. Animal Wellness Magazine’s Stamp of Approval. Therapeutic practitioners and wholesale/retail inquiries welcome.

Visit www.essences.ca, call (819) 682-0205 or email cfte@essences.ca to learn more.

Holistic Veterinarians

Guardian Services

EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC – A variety of holistic healing services are available to our patients, including: Homeopathy, Hair Analysis, Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic, Computerized Organ Stress Immune Testing, Acupuncture, Therapeutic Nutrition, Reiki and Bach Flower Remedies. Dr. Paul McCutcheon (416) 757-3569 Fax (416) 285-7483 eyac@ca.inter.net www.holisticpetvet.com

PET GUARDIAN COUNSELING SERVICES – Call (215) 499-6863 when you need: Supervised Pet Sitting, Walking, Exercise, Team approach Home Health Care for pets, Training for Rescue Dogs, Death and Bereavement Counseling (For Individuals & Family) www.petguardiancounseling.com

ESSEX ANIMAL CLINIC – Dr. Janice Huntingford, Dr. Glen Porteous, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional and Alternative Medicine and Surgery. Herbal Therapies and Holistic Medicine, Physio and Rehab Therapy.

Phone consultations available. (519) 776-7325 Essex ON. www.essexanimalclinic.com GODERICH VETERINARY CLINIC – Dr. Bill Schilthuis. Holistic homeopathic health, complementary medicine. All animal species.

Homeopathic alternatives to vaccinations, worming, flea control, heartworm treatment remedies available. Free consultations by phone daily between 7 & 9 p.m. except Thursday and Sunday. Phone (519) 524-2631 Fax (519) 524-2633 Email holistic@hurontel.on.ca GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the animal and client. Guelph Animal Hospital (519) 836-2782 DR. CYNTHIA HARCOURT VETERINARY SERVICES – A holistic office and mobile service welcoming your interest in working with you and your animal using homeopathy, nutrition, flower essences, CEDS (food sensitivity and organ stress testing), herbs, therapeutic touch and Tellington Ttouch.

Located at 21894 Woodbine Ave., Queensville, ON (approximately 45 minutes north of Toronto). Phone (905) 478-1995 Fax (905) 478-8097 NORTH-EAST NEWMARKET VETERINARY SERVICES – Dr. Autumn Louise Drouin, Veterinarian, Naturopath. Cozy outpatient office.

Detailed history, physical examination, laboratory tests. Individualized treatment protocols suit patient’s condition and client’s needs.

Homeopathy, Herbs, Clinical Nutrition, Bach Remedies, Physical Therapies. (905) 830-1030 Newmarket, ON www.DrAutumn.Net MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER – Dr. Mark Newkirk, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Metabolic Balancing, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination), Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Alternative Cancer Therapies. Phone and internet consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031

Nutrition ANIMALS HAVE FOOD ALLERGIES JUST LIKE PEOPLE! Itchy skin, fur loss, poor appetite, sluggishness are some signs. A highly experienced intuitive will identify your pets’ allergies. Humans too! Call today toll-free (866) 207-9301 or (610) 353-0122

Pet Memorials Vermont-made granite pet monuments, airtight caskets, beautiful cremation urns shipped to your home. Shop online www.everlastingstone.com or request free brochure (specify need): EVERLASTING STONE, P.O Box 995-AW, Barre, VT 05641 (800) 882-6686.

Pet Portraits ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS – Specializing in oil painting for 28 years. Nationwide clientele.

Portraits of any pet of your choice, people with pets also. Credit card, personal check or money order.

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

Schools & Training INTRODUCTORY & ADVANCED ANIMAL MASSAGE WORKSHOPS – Taught by experienced LMT. Canine & Equine Massage Videos, Workbooks & Anatomy Charts for sale.

Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc. Free brochure.

(800) 251-0007, wshaw1@bright.net, www.integratedtouchtherapy.com. CEU’s available. www.PetMassage.com – Learn PetMassage™ techniques through books, videos, NEW DVD’s, 5-day Workshop Intensives & Home-study courses.

Schedule a fun workshop with your dog. Attend the PetMassage™ Institute. Learn to increase your dog’s flexibility, circulation, immune system, coordination, body awareness and bonding. (800) 779-1001, (419) 727-6716, www.petmassage.com AMTIL (Animal Massage & Therapies) offers instruction in small animal massage therapy as well as maintenance and sports massage and a wide range of holistic products for animals. www.AMTIL.com (847) 782-1963 The British Institute of Homeopathy – Canada/ USA offers a rewarding career in Animal Health.

The Veterinary Homeopathy Course is taught

by Dr. Femma VanAs, DVetHom and Joanne Stefanatos, BS, DVM, CVA, CVC, MHMA. Contact us for a FREE prospectus outlining the courses we offer: Canadian Contact: (866) 866-3987 Phone (613) 749-9762 Fax (613) 749-7569 www.bihcanada.ca laura@bihcanada.ca USA Contact: (609) 927-5660 info@bihusa.com www.bihusa.com

Services EVER INVENTED ANYTHING WHICH IMPROVES ANIMALS’ LIVES or the lives of people who love animals? Or anything else? Considered patenting it? Paul Demchick, Registered Patent Agent, (877) 291-2140 or (252) 291-2140 www.professorpatents.com/animals.htm

Travel DogFriendly.com – Dog travel guides with United States and Canada dog-friendly lodging, attractions, parks, beaches and restaurants. Books and free online guides at www.dogfriendly.com/guides.

ORDER YOUR CLASSIFIED AD 1-866-764-1212 or classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com Animal Wellness Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising submitted, make stylistic changes or cancel any advertising accepted upon refund of payment made.

EVENTS CALENDAR November 20-21, 2004 – Toledo, OH Small Animal Anatomy

January 22, 2005 – Bisbee, AZ Introduction to Natural Horse Care

March 6, 2005 – Phoenix, AZ Beaglefest 2005 (Arizona Beagle Rescue)

This class includes an overview of all body systems and in-depth examination of the skeletal and muscular systems.

PetMassage Training & Research Institute Jonathan Rudinger 800-779-1001 workshops@petmassage.com • www.AMTIL.com

A1-day clinic conducted by Lisa Ross-Williams & Kenny Williams, hosts of the "If Your Horse Could Talk" show, which promotes natural horse care through knowledge. Includes course booklet and resource guide. Topics include Nutrition, Environments, Homeopathy, Essential Oils, Equine Dentistry, Hoof Care, Chemical Alternatives, Animal Communication and much more. Optional 3 hr hands-on session on Jan 23rd. Would you like to host a clinic in your area? Please contact us.

Lisa Ross-Williams 480-671-4896 lisa@naturalhorsetalk.com • www.naturalhorsetalk.com

An annual fundraiser and social opportunity for beagles and their people to play and celebrate their beagleness.

Arizona Humane Society Agility Field, 1521 W. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix, 85041 L. Baker 623-977-1255/ volunteer@azbeaglerescue.com www.azbeaglerescue.com

Jan. 29-30, 2005 – Portland, OR Animal Communication: Making Connections

Extend your Therapeutic Touch abilities with Animal Specialist - Jim Prudom. Explore the differences of working with animals as compared to people, how the animals help us, being One with an animal, distance work, and more. Level 3 Therapeutic Touch (Kreiger-Kunz) is a prerequisite for this two-day course. 9:00-5:00 Jim Prudom 519-570-9150

November 20-21, 2004 – Kitchener, ON Animal Communication – Basic Level Penelope Smith’s Basic Course, facilitated by Sue Becker.

Learn to communicate telepathically with your animal friends. No previous experience required!

Sue Becker 519-896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net

November 21, 2004, 2-5 pm – Portland, OR Losing a Beloved Animal How animals view life, death and reincarnation. This class is an introduction to how animals view the end of life’s cycle, and life after death. Drawing on her work as a professional animal communicator, Lauren will discuss experiences that animals have related to her. A guided imagery exercise will be conducted to help participants initiate the animal communication process.

New Renaissance Bookshop 503-224-4929 http://www.newrenbooks.com/events/nov.html.

December 10-12, 2004 – Grafton, WI Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class examines an evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy, along with business and ethical issues for practitioners.

Linda J. Strelow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • www.AMTIL.com

Join internationally known communicator Lauren McCall for this exciting adventure in learning the basics of animal communication. Learn what your animals are trying to tell you and deepen your relationship and understanding of all animals as you learn to communicate through words, images, and feelings. This fun and interactive workshop will be two full days (9:30-5) working within a small group environment.

Mitsi 503-538-4241 mitsi@dsl-only.net • www.IntegratedAnimal.com

Feb 19-20, 2005 – Phoenix, AZ Natural Hoof Care by Pete Ramey An exciting & educational 2-day natural hoof care clinic which has been designed for both horse owners and professionals alike. Conducted by Pete Ramey, hoof rehab specialist and author of Making Natural Hoof Care Work for You. This clinic includes lectures, open discussions, and trimming of a select number of horses.

Lisa Ross-Williams 480-671-4896 naturalhorsetalk@msn.com

April 2-3, 2005 – Waterloo, ON Therapeutic Touch for Animals – Part 1

April 30-May 1, 2005 – Burks Falls, ON Animal Communication – Level 2 Expand your ability to be One with other species and deepen the paths of telepathic communication. This two-day course presented by Jim Prudom has a limited enrollment allowing you optimal time for discussion and developing your own personal skills. 9:30-4:30 Valerie Dingman 705-387-0240

Post your event online at:

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events

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A dog of a different color

by Dee Clair

I

t is with great sadness that I announce the demise of Mr. Giggly Wiggly. He was taken far before his time and was never able to reach his full potential as a beloved toy. We had heard of other dogs acquiring a GW, and were therefore prepared to welcome him into our home and see to it that he had a good life. After thoroughly examining him, we naively concluded that he was indestructible and confidently handed him over to our nine-month-old Labrador puppy, Newman.

Quite proud of ourselves for finding the perfect, longlasting toy, my partner Dave and I went to a movie.

As you can guess, that’s when the death occurred. Later, when we walked through the door, we saw that Mr. Giggly Wiggly had suffered a violent end. His green and purple body parts left a trail that led to his remains and, although we tried to resuscitate him, he was as silent as Robert Blake taking the Fifth Amendment. But Giggly Wiggly lived a relatively good life, all six hours of it, and for that we can be thankful.

It occurred to me that Newman is not a terribly bright dog when it comes to toys. What reminded me is the way he plays with his Kong-on-a-rope. He has never considered taking the actual Kong in his mouth; for some reason, he will only grab it by the very end of the rope. In so doing, he runs down the path like Forrest Gump while the Kong swings like a pendulum, bonking him on top of the head with each orbit. And you would think that he would catch and carry a Frisbee like any other dog. But no. In keeping with his personality, he picks it up so that it’s vertically in front of his face and he can’t see where he’s going.

Scratching, a canine activity that I assumed came quite naturally, is also problematic for Newman. Keep in mind that he is still a puppy, and has a lot on the go at any given time. He is in a constant state of motion, rearranging pillows on all the beds, stealing peacock feathers from my flower arrangement, clawing under the fridge for that lost cookie crumb, combing the cat with his tongue, and protecting the house from invisible poltergeists.

He, therefore, does not have time to sit down and scratch. This is something he feels compelled to accomplish by continuing to walk. It resembles some sort of ancient, ceremonial dog dance.

He hops around on three legs while one back leg spins like a hubcap trying to alleviate the itch.

But we love our little anti-Einstein. He reminds us of the little kid who is shunned by his peers because he’s different, the last one picked to play baseball because you know he’s going to fumble the ball. And though we make fun of our dear, sweet Newman, we stop short of the ultimate insult, which is to say he’s as dim as Jessica Simpson. That would just be offensive to dogs everywhere.

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animal wellness

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animal wellness