V7I1 (Feb/Mar 2005)

animal

wellness educating your passion

How positive training GETS RESULTS

Going from

fat to fit in 5 steps

Amazing Animal Stories

Find out who won!

Collar, leash and harness DO'S & DON'TS $4.95 USA/$5.95 Canada

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 1

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contents 22

Photo provided by Fox & Hounds

14

51

features 14 The power of

positive training The gentle touch is the right touch

22 What's in

and what's not The dos and don'ts of choosing a collar, leash or harness

58

19 Dr. Martin Goldstein 63 Legal beagle animal wellness

resistant bacteria with natural remedies Healthy ways to zap bad bugs

32 Online dating

services bring animal lovers together

Here's how to meet the perfect match

Story Contest

The results are in! Read our selection of prizewinning animal tales

40 Alternative therapies help improve life for FIP cats Taking a holistic approach to managing this fatal feline disease

columns 10 Yakkity yak

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28 Fighting antibiotic- 36 Amazing Animals

66 Animal

communication

68 Animal passages

72 Book reviews 82 The tail end

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features 43 Overweight?

From fat to fit in 5 steps

54 Noxious energy

fields may endanger you and your animals

Ways to protect yourself and your four-footed friend

51 Hop up to health!

A basic guide to natural bunny nutrition

58

Communication and respect are key to natural horsemanship

65 Enter our

Amazing Animals Photo Contest Send us your best shots and you could win!

70 Pass the grass!

Grow some wholesome greens for your kitty

Enhancing the bond you share with your equine

departments 6 8

Editorial Pony express

31 Product picks

47 Wellness

resource guide

62 What’s gnu?

73 Ad spots 80 Events calendar 81 Classifieds

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2005. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: January, 2005

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You can't judge a book by its cover Volume 7

Issue 1

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dana Cox SOUTHERN ONTARIO REGIONAL EDITOR:

Ann Brightman

I’ve never thought of our animals as particularly close. Perhaps because they arrived at different times and are what I consider somewhat “species-challenged” (we have two unrelated female huskies and one cat), they have always kept a respectful distance from one another. You can imagine my surprise, then, when I recently witnessed two incredible events that proved our merry band really do care about each other.

LOS ANGELES REGIONAL EDITOR:

Carlos Reyes PHOTOGRAPHY by Miguel WWW.INFOCUSBYMIGUEL.COM (804) 779-7555 ILLUSTRATION Leanne Rosborough

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon Callahan Gloria Dodd, DVM Robert Ferber, Esq. Lisa Goldstein, DVM Martin Goldstein, DVM Shawn Messonnier, DVM Tracy B. McGinnis Mark Newkirk, DVM Paul Owens Lisa Ross-Williams ADMINISTRATION & SALES PRESIDENT/C.E.O. Tim Hockley CLIENT SERVICES Lesia Wright CIRCULATION AND INFORMATION SERVICES

Vaughan King ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Natalie Stephenson MARKETING & SALES ASSOCIATE Jeremy 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.

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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.

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The first event took place in the kitchen, the center of the world for our animals. Every evening, from the time I contemplate starting to cook until the last dish is washed and dried after dinner, the animals wait for food scraps on the kitchen mat. They seemingly pay no attention to each other during this daily ritual. But now I know better. Last week, our 14 1/2-year-old husky, Sabrina, and Katy, our two-year-old calico cat, actually came nose-to-nose for several seconds. Then Sabrina, the queen of the house, the most notorious cat chaser on the planet, gave Katy a big lick on the top of the head. Katy took this incredible show of affection in stride but I was dumbfounded.

edito r i a l

The second event was even more telling. Our second husky, Shayla, has been experiencing neurological problems over the last year, most likely associated with age (she was seven or so when we rescued her five years ago) and genetics.

She isn’t “the sharpest knife in the drawer” any more and some days are worse than others. Her siblings seem to sense this and give her extra space. The other night, however, they showed their true colors.

Around 1:00 a.m. we were woken by Sabrina whining. My husband and I got up and found our furry husky crying at the front closet. Katy the cat was there too, pawing at the door. At that instant, we also heard a noise inside the closet.

Slowly and nervously, my husband opened the sliding door and there stood Shayla, tenuously balancing on several pairs of shoes. She had somehow wandered into the closet, closed the door on herself and then couldn’t get out. Katy was trying to open the door for her while Sabrina decided to put out an SOS to draw our attention to the situation. We helped Shayla back to her bed, all the time thinking that those animals from The Incredible Journey had nothing on our rag tag crew.

I know some of you have experienced this type of incredible behavior with your own animals. In fact, many of you submitted wonderful stories of love and commitment to our “Amazing Animals Story Contest”. We read them all with great pleasure and many a teary eye. Your stories are a great tribute to your special friends and we want to thank you for sharing them with us. Though we have only a few prizes to award, these animals are all special in our books. And, obviously, in yours!

Wishing you peace and joy in 2005,

Our Cover: A master of the conformation, agility, obedience and herding rings, Cruiser, an Old English Sheepdog, is an amazing canine who lives with the Caplans in Chapel Hill, NC. The Caplans plan to help Cruiser become a therapy dog so he can bring as much joy to hospital patients as he's brought to them.

Photo: by Miguel www.infocusbymiguel.com

Susan Draffan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yvonne Hollandy LOS ANGELES REGIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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pony express dear animal wellness magazine . . .

I have been saying for a long time that the blame for breeding dogs for aggressiveness lies squarely on the shoulders of us humans, and yet the dogs are punished for it and the people are not (Volume 6, Issue 6). There have been too few arrests of people who are promoting and/or engaged in dog fighting, and their alleged punishment is weak at best, non-existent for the most part. I received an alert about two Palm Beach Florida sheriff’s deputies caught for the second time being involved in pit bull fighting, and Readers Digest had an article about the sheriff in a Texas county being the hub of a dog fighting ring there. Having been employed at a police department where K9s are hung to unconsciousness, kicked in the stomach and testicles, and helicoptered (swung around at the end of a leash with pronged collars that strangle and stab), I found that it was not possible to expect a law enforcement agency, which engages in animal cruelty itself, to go after organized cruelty such as dog fighting.

Sue Marston, Ventura, CA

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Editor’s Note: Getting laws to change is never easy, especially when it comes to animal cruelty and abuse. But there is light at the end of the tunnel: see this issue’s “Legal Beagle” article for more on the topic of animal law.

I really love your magazine. It’s so refreshing to finally find alternatives for my pets’ health.

My only disagreement is your insistence that cities and states change their laws to reflect pet owners as guardians, or pets as companions. I feel you are being duped by some dishonest people.

My former city in Pennsylvania tried to pass an ordinance to call pet owners “guardians” so they could get around our state law banning breed specific legislation. This way, if you are a guardian, or the animal is a companion, they can forcibly remove your pet because it no longer violates the constitution for illegal seizure of property.

I am a responsible owner of two American pit bull terriers, and as long as I’m the “owner,” they are my property and can’t be taken away without legal proceedings. If they are no longer considered property, the officials can legally remove them.

My dogs have never been involved in any trouble. And to have them taken away because they are no longer “property” would mean a very expensive and lengthy court battle. At least for now they are protected by the constitution and our state law.

that already have specific meanings in the law.

I proposed, and still do, a completely separate set of laws that acknowledges animals as neither property nor people, but as a third category. Such laws would also change the awful consequences of animals being property, and recognize the special needs and relationships between human and non-human animals.

Also, it’s important to recognize that while “guardian” is a legal term, “companion” means nothing in the eyes of the law. Calling an animal a companion has no legal effect at any level, state or local – the animal is still property. We are simply using the word “companion” to better reflect the role that animals play in our lives.

I’m a past owner of standardbreds, and still follow the industry. Loryhl Davis’ knowledge of horses being affected from many sides totally impressed me (Volume 6, Issue 6). I’ve known this intuitively, but she spelled it out.

I once rehabilitated a beauty of a horse named Top Reward, who by design or bad luck had ripped his left front suspensory to the point where it touched the floor. I spent nine months using an equine laser endorsed by the U.S. Equestrian Team, a highly potent formula of herbs, minerals and vitamins to stimulate healing, and a handmade boot wrapped around his suspensory. His leg healed, and he went back to racing and won four times. Saving his life was my high point, surpassing 26 wins with other horses.

Robert Smith, via e-mail

Miles, via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Los Angeles prosecutor Bob Ferber, who specializes in animal abuse, responds: You raise a valid point. However, calling an animal owner a guardian doesn’t necessarily mean the animal is no longer property. You may recall that in my own article (Volume 6, Issue 1), I argued in favor of changing animals from property to something else, but not to use guardianship or other terms

Editor’s Note: As Loryhl pointed out, many people assume that a “fast fix” using conventional drugs is the best way to get injured horses performing again. As your experience demonstrates, the holistic approach requires patience, but it’s much gentler and gives the animal time to fully heal.

Loryhl's contact info is: loryl@aol.com www.thehorseherbalist.com

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Address your letters to Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to

PMB 168 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com US:

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On October 30, dozens of celebrities, musicians, world-class athletes and other luminaries attended the second annual Guardian Awards hosted by In Defense of Animals (IDA) at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. Created to acknowledge individuals who serve as role models for the compassionate treatment of animals, the black-tie fund-raising event was hosted by comedian Elayne Boosler and featured celebrity honorary board members, guests and award recipients Wendie Malick (Just Shoot Me!) was one of many celebrity presenters at the 2004 such as Dr. Jane Goodall, Guardian Awards Ceremony.

Wendie Malick, Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Falk, Gretchen Wyler, Tippi Hedron and Keely Shaye Smith.

Good looks aren’t everything It’s true that looks can kill. Since Botox earned FDA approval as a temporary wrinkle-smoother in 2002, over two million people have been injected with the cosmetic. What you may not know, warns the Humane Society of the United States, is that every batch of Botox produced is tested on animals to estimate its potency, causing unnecessary suffering and death. It’s a high price to pay for the sake of appearances. Find out more by visiting www.hsus.org.

Church service for animals The city of Cologne in Germany may become the first community to start holding regular church services for animals. Catholic priest Wolfgang Kestermann attracted more than 150 people and their dogs and cats at his first mass for critters, the focus of which was a blessing of the animals. The service was so successful, and the animals so well behaved, that Father Kestermann plans to repeat the event.

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animal wellness

Photos Courtesy of In Defense of Animals

Celebrities gather for second Guardian Awards

Yakkity Yak

Gail Eisnitz, who has worked for more than 20 years to expose and publicize animal abuse, was presented with the Albert Schweitzer Medal this past November. Given by the Animal Welfare Institute, the award honors individuals for outstanding achievement in the advancement of animal protection.

Previous winners include Jane Goodall and Rachel Carson. Eisnitz authored the 1997 book Slaughterhouse, which exposed the horrors of USDA-inspected slaughter facilities. She was responsible for halting construction of what would have been the third largest factory pig farm in the world, and also helped secure $5 million a year from Congress to John Mackey, CEO of Whole Foods Market, and Gail Eisnitz, recipient of the Albert Schweitzer Medal. enforce the Humane Slaughter Act.

Photo: © Animal Welfare Institute

Animal advocate receives Albert Schweitzer Medal

Birds use their heads to migrate Scientists are a step closer to understanding the mystery of bird migration. A group of German researchers recently uncovered an important clue to how songbirds sense the Earth’s magnetic field and use the information to orient their flight. The new findings revealed a unique head-scanning behavior that birds perform just before orienting their bodies toward their migratory direction. Although it’s long been known that birds use geomagnetic fields to guide them, scientists weren’t sure where their “magnetic compass” was located. These new findings indicate it resides in the head, although more research is needed before we completely understand how the process works.

Watch for winter hazards Depending on where you live, the cold weather months can spell danger for your animal. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is reminding people to keep their companions away from two hazardous products used during the winter – antifreeze and ice melts. Antifreeze with ethylene glycol is highly toxic and can cause lifethreatening kidney damage, even in minute amounts.

Always clean up spills, check your vehicle regularly for leaks, and store antifreeze in an area inaccessible to your animal. Ice melts, meanwhile, used to remove ice and snow from sidewalks, roads and driveways, contain a cocktail of chemicals that can irritate an animal’s paws and cause serious illness if ingested.

Keep your animal away from these areas, or consider getting him a set of boots.

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Yakkity Yak Smugglers will try anything Say no to synthetic fragrances They may smell nice, but the artificial fragrances found in commercial soaps and shampoos are causing a lot of harm to aquatic wildlife. A new study from the National Institute of Health indicates that the fragrances, even in low concentrations, can block the ability of an organism’s cells to clear themselves of other substances that are even more toxic. The research found that California mussels exposed to synthetic musks in detergents, soaps, shampoos, air fresheners, deodorants, cosmetics and other products are suffering long-lasting and possibly irreversible biological damage, and that other species, including humans, could also be affected. Yet another good reason to stick to natural products!

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If you think you’ve heard it all, check this one out. A Sydney man has been charged under Australia’s biodiversity conservation law after trying to smuggle 23 parrot eggs out of the country in his underpants. He now faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and/or a $110,000 fine. Many of Australia’s parrots are endangered because they are in such high demand by the pet trade. The illegal trade in parrot eggs is consequently booming, and it seems people will do just about anything to smuggle them, often concealing them in clothing in an attempt to get through customs undetected.

To help combat the problem, Australian Customs and the Department of the Environment and Heritage have started working together to catch the culprits before they leave the country.

Fish are smarter than you think

White House welcomes second Scottie

There’s a reason why fish swim in schools. It turns out they’re a lot smarter than most people realize. Scientists in Oxford recently tested the mental capacity of some blind Mexican cave fish by building them an aquatic obstacle course. The fish memorized the course in just a few hours, and quickly spotted changes the researchers made in an attempt to dupe them. Not only were the fish able to complete complex tasks that baffled hamsters and dogs, but they also remembered what they had learned when re-tested several months later.

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The Bush family has another dog. On November 4th, the president marked Laura Bush’s birthday by giving her a Scottish terrier puppy named Miss Beazley. The pup’s father is half brother to the current first dog, Barney, and was named after a character in The Enormous Egg, a children’s book by Oliver Butterworth.

Miss Beazley is a welcome companion for Barney, who last year lost his 15-year-old springer spaniel friend, Spot.

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The POWER of POSITIVE TRAINING

by Paul Owens Thirty years ago, I trained my first dog, a golden retriever named Tara. She participated in obedience competitions and was awarded “Dog World” scores, meaning that in three separate trials she scored over 195 points out of a possible 200. Competition trials measure precise response and performance in various exercises including sit, down, stay, comewhen-called and heel. Like many dogs at the time, she wore a choke collar, and was trained with leash corrections.

She was occasionally reprimanded by being shaken or pinned to the ground.

No treats were ever used; there was, however, an abundance of praise. Over the next fifteen years, I taught thousands of people to train their dogs using these methods. The basic message was: “Do what I want and be rewarded with praise and petting, or suffer the consequences of being jerked, shaken or pinned to the ground.” Tara certainly “obeyed,” but she and I paid a price. No number of rewards could begin to address the physical and emotional punishment she was forced to endure.

Trainers who use a combination of the negative and positive methods outlined above are sometimes referred to as traditional or “balance trainers.” Traditional training uses physical punishment as well as rewards to shape behavior.

Praise, petting and life rewards (getting to chase a ball, go for a ride, tug a toy, etc.) are employed by many of these trainers, but choke, prong or shock collars are also frequently used and methods can include jerking the dog, pinning him to the ground and “scruff shakes.” Traditional trainers represent the vast majority of trainers in the world today.

Three decades ago, I was one myself.

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animal wellness

Negative trainers use severely abusive methods. These can include hitting (including the use of fists, newspapers, rubber hoses), kicking, extreme shocking, biting (both by the trainer and/or another dog), hanging the dog or holding him underwater until unconscious, and ear pinching. Many people, desperate to change their dog’s behavior, feel that negative training is the only way to get him to obey. It is not. This brings us to the third group, the positive trainers.

The gentle touch Over the past two decades, leading behaviorists and experts all over the world have been practicing a kinder, gentler approach to training even the most severely aggressive and frightened animals.

Positive trainers use treats, praise, life rewards and affection almost exclusively. None of the physically aversive methods of traditional or negative training are ever used. But can positive training be effective, especially with difficult dogs and severe cases of aggression?

I stopped using negative methods over 15 years ago, and 50 percent of my practice deals with moderate-to-severe cases of aggression. Having trained thousands of dogs with both positive and negative methods, I have concluded that positive methods are not only more effective, they are safer, more humane and far less stressful for both dogs and humans.

Science seems to agree. A 2004 scientific study by the Department of Clinical Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol is one of several that strongly supports the value of positive training over punishment: “Because reward-based methods are associated with higher levels of obedience and fewer problematic behaviors, we suggest that their use is a more effective and welfare-compatible alternative to punishment for the average dog owner.” *

Why does positive training work?

There are several important reasons why positive training is so effective.

1 2

Nonviolence works. How we train and interact with our animals is directly linked to how we interact with each other.

Numerous studies have connected violent behavior toward animals with human-to-human violence. The reverse is also true. Positive interactions with animals promote physical and emotional health and safety in human relationships.

Compassion, patience and consistency are used in the educational process. Positive trainers recognize that every dog is different and learns at his or her own speed. They formulate programs to suit the physical and emotional limits of each dog. Many things affect a dog’s behavior and reliability, including breed, age, history, health, the trainer’s consistency and skill, etc.

For example, although a young puppy can learn most any animal wellness

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behavior in a few short sessions, behavioral reliability cannot be achieved until the dog reaches emotional maturity, which normally happens between one-and-ahalf and four years of age.

3

Discipline is the key to the effectiveness of positive training. Positive trainers use the NILIF leadership model: Nothing in Life is Free. Reliability is the goal and training is strict, but it’s also fun. The message to the dog is: “I own everything you want. I will never hit, kick, shock, shake or otherwise abuse you. But, if you want something, you must do something for me first. Want to get petted? Sit. Want to go outside? Lie down. Want to say hello to another dog? Stay until I release you. Want to chase a ball? Go to your bed until I say okay.”

Positive training also sets you and your dog up for success and safety. It makes positive associations so the dog looks at life as something friendly, thereby removing the need to be competitive or aggressive. Finally, positive training increases behavioral reliability through a strict but scientifically proven leadership program. You begin training at the point your dog is successful and step-by-step build to the point of reliability you have set as your goal.

Positive training in action This brief overview illustrates how positive training might be used to shape the beginning steps of a reliable "come-when-called".

1

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Start in a non-distracting environment. Rub the smell of a treat on your finger. Place your finger one inch from your dog’s nose and say “come.” As soon as the dog touches your finger, praise and give a treat from your other hand. Repeat this process, each time adding more distance, one inch at a time. This method is called targeting. In essence you are saying

animal wellness

to your dog, “if you touch my finger with your nose, I will reward you.” This translates to “come.” Have family members and friends also practice, but each time someone new tries, that person should start one inch away, just as you did. The rule is this: If your dog won’t do what you want her to do, go back to the point where she was last successful. Practice saying the word one time only. Give your dog up to 30 seconds to figure it out. If she doesn’t, return to the distance where she was last successful and incrementally add more distance.

2 3

When your dog gets to the point where he will run across the room and touch your finger as soon as you put your hand by your side, add more challenges.

These are referred to as the three D’s, and stand for duration (length of time), distance and distractions.

In our example, we are adding distance with a little bit of distraction.

Show your dog the treat, then give it to a friend or family member to hold. Now put your hand one inch from your dog’s nose and say “come,” as you practiced before. As soon as your dog turns his head to touch your finger, say “good,” and have your friend put the treat in his mouth as quickly as possible. Make sure your hand is only one inch away and your friend is holding the treat at least a foot away. Gradually add more distance so your dog has to walk ten feet and each time return to your friend to be rewarded. It’s like a Zen koan: to get the treat, he must leave the treat. When your dog does this successfully, he is now at the sixth grade level for "come-when-called".

If you expect your dog to turn on a dime when you call, even when she is 40 yards away or running at full speed after a squirrel, you’ll need to take her through the canine equivalent of elementary school, then high school, college, and finally to the Ph.D. level this response requires. If

Many pet food companies have replaced protein and fat with starch because it’s cheap. That’s not nature’s way.

It’s not ours, either.

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you decide to use a trainer, ask to observe a class and see what methods he employs. Observe how he speaks to the handlers. If a handler or dog is confused, listen and watch to see if the trainer offers alternate techniques, encouragement and patience. If a trainer says you cannot watch while he trains, I suggest you take your dog and run the other way.

Physical punishment and aversive training methods are simply unnecessary and do nothing to promote or foster safety, patience, kindness and compassion. A gentle, positive approach will make life much richer and happier for you and your dog.

YOUR PET CAN TALK...

*“Dog Training methods; their use, effectiveness and interaction with behavior and welfare,” Animal Welfare 2004, EF Hilby, NJ Rooney and JWS Bradshaw, Anthropology Institute, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK

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Q

My dog, Jasper, who is 15, has hip dysplasia; otherwise she is quite healthy, eats well, and likes to go for “ambles”. Her main problem is that, when she stands up or walks more than ten yards, she gently collapses on her right side. Her right leg has become weaker and her musculature, especially around the knee, is not what it was. Her vets say she is too old to withstand a hip operation, hence I am seeking some viable alternative. Is there a device, like a knee or leg brace, that could be fitted on her to help give her leg, as an underpinning to her hip, some extra support?

A

I feel that answering the last part of your question should be done by a hands-on veterinarian, preferably one with some orthopedic experience, who can examine Jasper and observe the way she walks. I have seen and used slings with handles for the rear quarters with a lot of success. My major recommendation would be more one of internal support as this is what I have seen work in tens of thousands of cases over the last three decades. Recommendations include: homeopathic treatment for arthritis such as Muscle Joint Drops by Professional Health Products, an herbal formulation contain ingredients like yucca, alfalfa and devil’s claw, a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement and/or Glycoflex III by Vetri Science Labs. Additionally, you could consider acupuncture and possibly chiropractic.

Editor’s note: For a variety of products for older dogs, including slings with handles, check out handicappedpets.com

Q

I have a cat named Pumpkinator whom we rescued.

We have a colony of ferals that we tend to and she has always been the sickest of the bunch. I am in need of advice as to what herbs we can use to help her have normal stools (they are so loose and smell so bad). She is about five pounds and will not groom herself.

A

It sounds like she has inflammatory bowel disease, a condition we see all too often. Fortunately, we have

been very successful with alternative treatment and getting cats off all conventional medications and back to normal. Here’s a list of several of the many things we would use: Acetylator by Vetri Science Labs, the herb slippery elm (either by itself at 1/5 the human dose or in pre-formulated combinations for intestinal function), the potato diet I wrote about in my book The Nature of Animal Healing (you can omit the slice of leek as it is in the onion family which is supposedly toxic to cats), and a homeopathic combination remedy such as BHI Diarrhea mixed with BHI Intestine, Diarrhea Aid by Professional Health Products or Diar-Relief by Dr Goodpet.

Always, the switch to a very high quality diet of whole foods can, in general, do wonders with conditions like this. Two other commercially available products that could help include a hydrolyzed fish product called Seacure and Primal Defense by Garden of Life.

Q

My seven-year-old female golden mix, Morgan, has sebaceous cysts on various areas of her body. Some have burst, the others are not bothering or hurting her. Is there a supplement (or treatment) I could give her to clear up the cysts? I have been told the cysts are basically zits. Is that true?

A

Yes, this is basically true. Remember, the skin is a powerful eliminative organ. “What goes in must come out.” Sometimes, just improving a dog’s diet to high quality, whole foods with an emphasis towards raw alone can remedy the situation. The addition of broad spectrum digestive enzymes and antioxidant enzymes can also have a good effect.

And lastly, the homeopathic combination mercurius heel (which contains hepar sulf) from Heel can aid in improvement.

Q

I have an almost 13-year-old male Shih Tzu. In July of 2003 he had emergency bladder surgery for struvite stones, after which I took him off all commercial dry dog food. We decided I would make home-cooked meals of brown rice or oats, organic chicken or turkey and

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holistic veterinary advice vegetables. [My holistic vet] gave me several different types of supplements to use for various problems he has, which include elevated liver enzymes and a grade 4 out of 6 heart murmur. As of July, 2004, he has been on Enalapril and Lasix for his heart and to prevent congestive heart failure. On September 16, 2004 he had a calcium oxalate stone stuck in his urethra for which he had to undergo another surgery.

Are there any dietary or supplement changes I can make to prevent his body from forming stones?

A

Once again and as above, I typically don’t like treating cases as complex and deep seated as this by magazine recommendation, as you must address the whole patient and not just its one condition. But here are a few recommendations for the urinary problem.

The diet sounds good, but you could improve it by removing all the grains and even trying the switch toward raw meat. With struvite stones, the obvious acidification of the urine with agents like vitamin C or cranberry concentrates is helpful. Herbally, you can use combination preparations indicated for the kidney/bladder containing such herbs as uva ursi, parsley and juniper, or the Chinese formulation Pyrossia from Seven Forests.

Q

My parents have a nine-year-old Pekingnese who has just been diagnosed with autoimmune deficiency. He started acting strange about four days ago and then his symptoms started to include loss of energy, cough with blood at times, temperature drop to 97°, and an inability to catch his breath due to coughing when he gets excited.

After keeping him in the hospital for three days, the clinic released him to my parents and said they were unfamiliar with this disease and were still learning how to treat it. The only treatment as of now is Prednisone.

Have you heard of this disease and of possible treatments as well as side effects from both the meds and illness? (Another serious problem he had was severe anemia, but my parents got him to the vet in time to avoid having to have a blood transfusion.)

A

This sounds like autoimmune hemolytic anemia and/or thrombocytopenia. Both of these are, unfortunately, common conditions (and, in my experience and documented in literature, reported sequels to vaccination – typically 10 to 45 days post vaccine). It hits so rapidly that it usually needs intensive medical therapy to handle its emergency/life threatening aspect. Afterwards, we have had very good success with the use of alternatives in getting the patients off drugs and living normal and healthy lives.

Q A

Our 12-year-old Chow Chow sneezes and has blood mixed with mucus coming out of her nose. Is this something to be concerned about? We live five hours by car away from a vet.

Blood coming from the nose would definitely be something of concern and is certainly treatable. This would typically depend upon the proper diagnosis and be carried out medically, surgically and with alternative therapies. You should make that trip to the veterinarian.

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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animal wellness

FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS™

Timberwolf Organics carnivore specific formulas are for all life stages and include the following ingredients: Blueberries, Apples, Figs, Pears, Wild Salmon and Walnut Oils, Flax Seed, Millet, Amaranth, Kelp, Spirulina, Taurine, Herbs, Phytonutrients, Garlic Pieces, Vegetables, Enzymes and Probiotics, Chelated Minerals, Natural Preservatives.

Timberwolf Organics delivers to your pet a range of superior diets created to provide optimum nutrition formulated using only high levels of the highest grade of raw ingredients available.

We began this quest some years ago with a concept based upon creating a pet food that would offer our own pets a diet that was not only highly nutritious but would also include WHOLESOME NATURAL INGREDIENTS and only have the HIGHEST GRADE of animal protein meals available.

Our GOURMET OILS are the same as those found in the finest health food stores and gourmet restaurants. Our blended HERBS AND SPICES were chosen for their aromatic and individual properties, drawn from a wide variety of plants cultivated for everyday use. Thoughtful attention is paid to the SPECIFICALLY CHOSEN GRAINS added for their nutrient properties and not just as an inexpensive source of fillers. We continue our exacting criteria by encompassing the salubrious addition of DRIED FRUITS, VEGETABLES and PLANT EXTRACTS. Because we went to such great lengths to create such extraordinary pet foods, we brought to you state of the art OXYGEN BARRIER packaging because we DO NOT use chemical preservatives in any of our products.

We challenge you to try one of our formulas. We warn you however, once you have you may never be satisfied with the ordinary again.

www.timberwolforganics.com

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What’s in and what’s not The dos and don’ts of choosing a collar, leash or harness

by Ann Brightman

Hug-a-Dog

D

epending where you live, choosing a collar, leash or harness is not just a practical purchase; it’s a personal statement. Whether you’re buying just one piece or one for every occasion on Fifi’s busy social schedule, animal lovers have more choice than ever when it comes to their animal’s “jewelry” and accessories. With such a huge selection of products out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed before you even start, but remembering these “dos and don’ts” will help ensure you get something that best meets the needs of you and your companion.

Do consider your aims DO

“The first thing to keep in mind is what you want to achieve with the product,” says Debbie Larsen of Larz Equipment, creators of the Z Leash System. Are you going to use it for training, or just for walking? If your dog is perfectly trained, then a traditional collar and leash is great. If he isn’t, or you’re working with a puppy who’s never walked on a lead before, you may need something more specialized.

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animal wellness

Fox & Hounds

Don’t choose looks over practicality DON'T

Yes, it’s hard to resist all those bright colors and patterns, but quality, fit and comfort should come first. Happily, because more and more people want products that look stylish, many of today’s products combine fashion with function!

Do invest in quality DO

Paying a little more up front ensures you get something durable and long lasting that’s comfortable for your animal and easy for you to use.

Don’t buy choke chains or pinch collars Don’t DON'T

These nasty devices can injure your dog’s neck, throat or esophagus.

If he pulls a lot, consider a head collar, which puts light pressure on his muzzle and at the back of his neck rather than on his throat. A harness is another alternative. “Harnesses are

good for dogs that cough or pull hard, especially small breeds that can have problems with collapsed tracheas,” says Roxanne Pettipas of Buddy Belt.

Most harnesses are made from straps, or you can choose a vest-style product such as Hug-a-Dog. “When the dog pulls, the pressure is dispersed and absorbed through the body and fabric of the harness,” says April Scott.

Don’t forget to measure up DON'T

Larz Equipment

A poorly fitting collar or harness is not only uncomfortable, but can cause undesirable behavior. Many manufacturers offer sizing tips to help you get the best fit. As a general rule of thumb, you should be able to comfortably insert two fingers between the collar and the animal’s neck, or the harness and his body. If it’s a squeeze, the product is too tight; if there’s extra space, he might be able to wriggle his way free.

Do look at different materials DO

Collars, harnesses and leashes can be made from leather, nylon, webbed cotton, canvas, poly knit mesh, hemp and other fabrics and materials. Soft, durable and washable, nylon dries easily after getting wet, so it’s good for dogs that like the water. Leather and hemp are also long lasting and become softer and more flexible with Earth Dog use. “Hemp can be worn for years,” says Dave Colella of Earthdog. “It’s also hypoallergenic, so it’s a good choice for dogs that may have sensitivities to other materials.”

Fasteners can range from metal or plastic buckles to Velcro straps.

Do consider his size DO

Save the wide, heavy leather collars and leashes for the big guys, and choose lightweight products for small dogs and cats. “Our leashes are sized for different breeds,” says Debbie. “A chihuahua would have something very different from a great Dane.”

Do shop around for the right leash DO

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Sylvan & Sons

You want something that’s going to be easy on your hands as well as suitable for your animal, so check for softness, comfort and grip as well as strength and durability. Most leashes are an average of four to six feet long, and come in a variety of materials, weights and thicknesses.

Some, like those made by Marine Dog, can be adjusted to different lengths and can even attach around your waist for shoulder for hands-free walking. There are also leashes animal wellness

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Choosing the right color

Here are just some of the meanings of specific colors. Do they match your dog's or cat's personality?

Blue

•Sky •Water •Peace

•Faith •Trust •Wisdom

Orange

•Joy •Success •Determination •Energy •Encouragement

Red •Fire •Energy •Love •Power •Passion

•Energy •Cheery •Sun •Creativity •Happiness

Purple

Brown

Pink

•Royalty •Power •Nobility

•Luxury •Spirituality

Collars should be equipped with an identification tag that includes your name, address and contact phone numbers, just in case your animal runs away or gets lost. Check the tag regularly to make sure it’s still legible and securely attached.

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animal wellness

Yellow

•Growth •Healing •Fertility •Environmentally friendly

designed especially for dogs that pull a lot. “We sew a bungee-like cord into our leashes, so that if the dog lunges, the shock is absorbed by the cord rather than jerking his neck or spinal cord, or hurting your arm and shoulder,” says Debbie. Another popular option is the retractable leash, such as Flexi, which can either extend and give your dog room to roam, or be shortened when you need more control

Don’t forget ID DON'T

Green

•Conservative •Outdoors •Stable •Organic

•Love •Playful •Tranquil •Charming

Strutting his stuff in style This is the fun part!

Once you’ve decided on a comfortable, quality product that fits your animal properly, you can turn your eye to color and design. When we went shopping for harnesses for our cats, we settled on soft nylon, choosing a bright red harness for our charcoal gray cat, and

Fox & Hounds

Introducing Solid Gold Green Cow Tripe Green Cow Tripe is the fourth section of the stomach of the cow where the digestive enzymes are located.

Green Cow comes in 13.2 ounce pull top cans. Some people feed the whole can to the dogs. Cats love Green Cow also. However, we recommend that you give a portion of the tripe mixed with the dry food. For a cat or small dog, two heaping teaspoons per meal is fine. For a 50# dog, two heaping tablespoons per meal, mixed with kibble is fine. For larger dogs, use proportionally more. Tripe smells a little when you first open the can. But the smell goes away. Cover the can and refrigerate the rest.

In January, we received a call from a veterinarian in charge of a musher dog race. She ordered 25 cases of Green Cow. I asked her why? “If a dog gets tired, whether it is a musher dog, or one involved with hunting, sporting or agility, if you give him a bit of tripe, it perks him up. It also prevents bloat. If a dog is excited, he barks or gulps air. This may turn into bloat. Since tripe contains enzymes, this never turns into bloat. The side effect is that your tripe gives a beautiful coat.�

Sometimes older dogs do not have as many enzymes as they had when they were young. Give them Green Cow. Young dogs less than a year, sometimes get diarrhea since they have not fully developed internally.

Green Cow Tripe will help this.

Some stores have a special introductory promotion. There are 24 cans to a case. If you buy 22, they give you #23 and #24 for free. So ask your store if they have any special promotions.

COMING SOON - Small size cans for cats.

To find a Solid Gold dealer near you, or to obtain a free catalogue, contact us at: Solid Gold is the only dog food company that is a member of the Organic Trade Association, the American Nutraceutical Association, the Medicinal Food Association, and the Nutraceutical Foods Association and the Life Extension Association.

Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, the Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1483 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020 (619) 258-7356 or (619) 258-1914 (M-F 10-5 PST) or E-mail us at: dane@solidgoldhealth.com or www.solidgoldhealth.com

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”

sapphire blue for our white-and-gray tabby. Somehow the colors seemed appropriate to both their coats and their personalities.

...our most popular pattern, rather surprisingly, is a pink and purple one!”

It doesn’t matter what your tastes are, or what breed or size of dog or cat you have, there are all kinds of ways to display your fashion preferences – whether it’s a crystal-studded collar for your poodle, a tartan harness for your Scottie, or a delicate pink leash for your fastidious white Persian.

“Most people are interested in design and visual elements,” says Dave, whose hemp products come in 15 patterns and seven solids. “They want something that’s going to look good on their dog. They really want to express themselves through their choice of patterns and colors.”

It’s a trend that’s growing, since many businesses are adding an increasing number of colors and designs to their lines. “Just in the last few years we’ve started putting a decorative fabric overlay on our harnesses,” says April. “We began doing this after 9/11 with patriotic designs, and we sold a lot of

”

Debbie adds that customers often ask for advice when choosing a color or design. “Someone might call up and say, ‘I have a golden dog – what color would go best with him?’ Or they’ll put all our colors and patterns against their dog’s coat to see how they look. Right now, our most popular solids are black, red and blue, but our most popular pattern, rather surprisingly, is a pink and purple one!”

Buddy Belt

Talkin’ Pets ................with Jon Patch “Talkin’ Pets” offers live, fun-filled discussions about pets and our other friends in the animal kingdom. Host Jon Patch and his expert guests have made this program America’s favorite pet show!

Jon is joined frequently by expert guests in the veterinary and animal behavioral fields. Breed and medical tips are weekly features as well as updates in animal news. Environmental tips and advice on how to make our environment a safer, more enjoyable place to live.

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animal wellness

stars and stripes and anything that was red, white and blue. It just grew from there. We now have various holiday designs, as well as a leopard and tiger pattern.”

Some companies offer accessories designed to make the ultimate fashion statement. From Fox & Hounds’ Elvis Presley Hound Dog Collection or rhinestone-studded collars for dogs and cats, to Sylvan & Sons’ Kenyan beaded collars, cheetah-print cat leash, or fancy collar bows for special occasions, there’s something to suit even the most particular canine or feline (and his guardian)!

2005 SCHEDULE JANUARY

Cancer in Animals

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Humane Training

MARCH APRIL MAY

Vegitarianism for Animals Aggressive Cats Treatment for Arthritis

JUNE

Natural Garden & Lawns

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Vaccinations

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High Cholesterol Special Needs Diets Yoga for Dogs

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Toxic Toys vs. Good Toys

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Top 10 Animal Gifts for 2005

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or email jonpatch@talkinpets.com

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Fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria

with

natural remedies

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

A

“Antibiotic” literally means “against life”. That’s great if the life in question is a nasty bacterium. It’s not so good if the life is that of your animal companion. Properly used, antibiotics are usually safe and can help overcome serious, even lifethreatening infections. All too often, though, these drugs are used incorrectly, resulting in extra expense and potential harm to the animal (by destroying helpful bacteria). They can also cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea and allergic reactions. The most common side effects I see from the long-term use of antibiotics are a lack of improvement in the animal, as well as secondary yeast infections. I frequently see animals, usually with chronic skin diseases, that have been on antibiotics for months to years, even though many of them do not even have a diagnosed disease!

Worst of all, the overuse of antibiotics can encourage the

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animal wellness

development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A study1 done at the Cold River Veterinary Center in North Clarendon, Vermont showed that out of six ear swabs taken from patients, all had bacteria resistant to one or more antibiotics. Meanwhile, 78 percent of urine cultures also had antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Why antibiotics don’t always work There are several reasons why animals may not get better while taking antibiotics:

Incorrect diagnosis: Only bacterial infections respond to antibiotics, so it’s important to determine that the disease is actually caused by bacteria before using them.

For example, most doctors use antibiotics to treat cats with lower urinary tract disease, even thought most cats

do not have bacterial infections of the bladder. The cats improve, leading everyone to believe the antibiotic cured them, when that is not the case.

Underlying medical problems: Animals with allergies and thyroid disease often have chronic bacterial skin infections. Until the underlying problem is diagnosed and treated, the skin will continue to get infected and the animal will require ever-longer doses of antibiotics.

Wrong antibiotic: No antibiotic works all the time. If the prescribed antibiotic does not work, the diagnosis needs to be reassessed, or a different antibiotic may be needed.

every day or two with the appropriate product, you minimize the number of days he needs to take oral antibiotics. In my practice, animals who are bathed frequently only need oral antibiotics for three to four weeks (the minimum time needed to treat a skin infection) rather than the four to eight weeks often required for animals that are not bathed. Products containing chlorhexidine, povidone iodine, ethyl lactate, and benzoyl peroxide are often useful.

Vaccines

It may seem odd to be discussing vaccines, but in treating skin infections, there are immune-boosting products that are basically “vaccines” against the staphylococcal bacteria

Wrong dose: Even the right antibiotic won’t work if it is not dosed correctly.

Wronglengthoftreatment:Antibiotic therapy can’t be stopped just because the animal seems better. Doing so will often caused a relapse from bacteria that weren’t killed but just dormant. I often see this in animals being treated for skin infections. Antibiotics for skin infections require a minimum treatment time of three to four weeks. However, many doctors reduce this to two weeks in an attempt to reduce costs (antibiotics for a large dog could easily run $50 to $100 or more for three to four weeks of treatment). Unfortunately, the dog relapses after temporarily improving and requires a second round of antibiotics, which ultimately costs more than if the dog had been treated properly in the first place.

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In certain circumstances, natural therapies can be used in place of antibiotics.

Topical decontamination Topical therapy, such as antibacterial shampoo, is extremely helpful for skin infections because it treats the animal on the outside as well as the inside. Antibacterial shampoo therapy does several things: • Moisturizes and rehydrates the skin • Removes bacteria

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Most importantly, by bathing your animal animal wellness

29

that cause most of these infections. By immunizing the animal, we can often eliminate the need for antibiotics.

This might be a consideration if other more natural remedies fail to help an animal with chronic bacterial skin infections.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic “antibiotics” (called nosodes) are dilute remedies that contain the bacteria for which they are indicated. For example, if the animal has a staphylococcal infection, a homeopathic doctor might prescribe the staphylococcal nosode. In effect, this is a homeopathic “vaccine” against the staphylococcal bacteria, and stimulates the body to attack the bacteria.

Additional homeopathic remedies may be used depending on which part of the body is infected. For example, animals with skin infections might be treated with the staphylococcal nosode as well as sulfur, a good remedy for many skin cases.

Acupuncture

Animals with conditions that require long-term antibiotic therapy often have less than ideal immune systems. Acupuncture is an excellent way to boost an improperly functioning immune system, helping the body heal itself and reducing the need for antibiotics. Depending on where the infection is located, acupuncture points can be chosen to stimulate the desired organ as well.

The first dog I ever treated with acupuncture was one with chronic skin infections whose guardian was tired of using expensive antibiotics that might ultimately harm her dog. Acupuncture successfully decreased the dog’s infections.

Herbs

Many herbs are considered “anti-bacterial” and may help wean an animal off antibiotic therapy (under a doctor’s supervision of course). Some are:

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Aloe (vera) Astragalus Blessed thistle Coriander Cranberry Echinacea Garlic Goldenrod Goldenseal Sarsaparilla Tea tree Olive leaf extract (contains a chemical called

oleuropein that is anti-viral, antibacterial and anti-fungal.

Note that olive oil will not achieve the same effects, since oleuropein is extracted from the leaves before the oil is removed. I have had good results using olive leaf preparations for a variety of infectious problems, with no side effects.)

Probiotics

No discussion of natural antibiotic therapy would be complete without a brief mention of gastrointestinal support. An animal’s intestinal tract is crammed full of healthy bacteria and yeasts necessary for normal bowel health. Antibiotics usually kill off these healthy organisms along with the pathogenic bacteria, sometimes leading to diarrhea, endotoxic shock, leaky gut syndrome, and even death. It is essential to replenish normal bowel flora by using a probiotic supplement prescribed by your vet.

Used rationally and safely, antibiotics have their place, sometimes even saving your animal’s life. If there are natural therapies that may work just as well, though, they should be tried first. Regardless of treatment, a proper diagnosis must be made before any therapy is begun. If your own animal has been taking antibiotics for months or years, talk with a holistic vet about trying homeopathy, herbal treatments, acupuncture and nutritional therapies.

Cold River Veterinary Center, “Natural Pet Care.” January, 2002.

1

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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animal wellness

awm Product Picks “Positive” thinking

Stepping out

Whether you feed a raw or packaged diet, good nutrition depends on good supplementation.

From Great Life Products comes Positive Health, a complete liquid supplement for dogs and cats suitable for all food diets. This all-natural product contains multiple nutrients necessary for optimal health, including essential fatty acids, digestive enzymes, probiotics, colostrum and organ cleansers, as well as vitamins and minerals.

Just add a little to your companion’s food to help enhance his well being.

Dog 8 oz. - 32 oz.: $14.99 - $64.95 Cat 2 oz. - 4 oz.: $9.99 - $14.95 www.greatlife4pets.com

What with ice and salt in the winter, and hot asphalt in the summer, your dog’s paws are under a lot of pressure. Neo-paws can help protect his tender tootsies with their all-purpose, all-season dog shoes. Made from tough but flexible neoprene rubber, the shoes fit comfortably and snugly and also help shield your canine’s feet from other hazards such as broken glass, metal or sharp rocks.

Neo-paws come in eleven different sizes for every breed of pooch.

XS - XXL: $32 - $48 per set High Performance S - XXXL: $52 - $68 per set www.neo-paws.com

Nixing the grains If your dog has a sensitivity to grains, it can be hard to find a kibble he can safely eat, since most products have at least some grains in them.

Sojourner Farms has solved the problem with its new Europa Grain-Free Just-Add-Meat Dog Food Mix. Made from a blend of natural dried sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, whole eggs, flax, parsley, calcium carbonate, carob, kelp, alfalfa, ginger and garlic, the mix can be combined with meat to create a healthy and delicious meal for your canine.

8 lb. bag: $49.50 www.sojos.com

An absorbing idea How well does your companion absorb the nutrients he gets in his food? If he suffers from allergies, digestive disorders, skin problems, lethargy and other chronic conditions, chances are his body needs a little assistance.

Prozyme is a natural, plant-derived enzyme supplement that helps increase your animal’s ability to absorb the vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and other nutrients he needs to maintain good health. It can be used for dogs, cats, horses and other animals, and is especially beneficial for seniors.

85g - 4 lb.: $9.95 - $100 www.prozyme.net

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ONLINE DATING SERVICES bring

animal lovers

by Tracy B. McGinnis

Ted Hooban is getting ready for a Valentine’s Party at a local pub in Washington, DC. It’s one of many events taking place across the country where singles get together in the hopes of finding someone to start a relationship with. But this party is a bit different, because tonight Ted is bringing along his dog, Cuki.

The event, “Party Like a Dog,” is sponsored by

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TOGETHER

Animal Attraction, an online dating service for pet lovers. Hooban was introduced to the site through friends and thought the idea was interesting, although he had some initial reservations. “It was weird for me to publicly declare that I was single,” recalls Hooban.

The 34-year-old software business owner from

Arlington, Virginia is not alone. According to recent estimates, four in ten American singles have used, or are currently using, online dating to meet their match. And with 40 million animal guardians in the U.S., Animal Attraction founder Dan Cohen thought that bringing the two groups together would help increase the chances of making a connection.

“Animal Attraction is dedicated to helping pet lovers make positive connections with each other for companionship, friendship, romance and long-term relationships,” explains Cohen. He launched the site in February 2004 and within two weeks had members from coast to coast of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds.

Members like Hooban find the registration process enjoyable. “All I needed to do was complete a profile of myself and Cuki – it was pain-free,” he says.

After completing their profiles, members can start using search engines to meet people in their area, participate in chat rooms, message boards, e-mail and personal messaging, as well as attending nationwide events such as “Party Like a Dog.” Hooban recalls the event as a lot of fun. “It was a normal bar scene but with a bunch of dogs running around.” Cuki was no exception. She circulated until she found a dog she was interested in – a small shitzu named Milo, with her guardian Melanie.

ONLINE DATING TIPS • Adding a photo dramatically improves your chances of getting a response.

• The more information you provide in your profile, the better – humorous and fun profiles get more responses.

• Don’t wait for someone to respond – start replying to profiles yourself.

• Go by your username. Do not include personal information like phone numbers, e-mail, address or last name – only give out this information when you feel comfortable.

• Take your time. Get to know a lot of members and avoid pushy people who want to meet face to face right away.

Also avoid people who press you for personal information, and be aware of

“I saw her with her silly little dog – I started making fun of Milo, and Melanie thought it was funny. Then we started talking and hanging out,” recalls Hooban.

The couple hit it off and have been dating ever since, successfully accomplishing their mission of meeting someone who also happens to be an animal lover.

“People love their dogs,” says Trish Pitzel, creator and “Top Dog” at LoveUnleashed.com, a site for dog enthusiasts who wish to meet other dog guardians for friendship or romance. “The last thing they want is to have to give up their beloved pet. Singles have an even stronger bond as their animals are often their only faithful companions. It would be heartbreaking to have a potential life mate who is allergic or dislikes dogs in general. You don’t want to make a choice of getting rid of your dog or your partner.”

At LoveUnleashed.com, members like “Golden Retriever Girl” are given a free trial period and can create profiles of themselves and their dogs: “My dog is a big part of my life and trying to meet someone who understands that can be hard. This site helps you skip the question of ‘do you like dogs?’”

Members have an e-mail address that allows them to keep their anonymity while conversing with other members. They create profile pages for themselves and their dogs and have the ability to search other members by breed of dog.

“So far, I’ve been on two doggy dates,” says “Golden Retriever Girl.” “I’m having so much fun using the site, especially browsing through the dog and owner profiles.”

The site also offers a flea market where members can buy and sell merchandise, including dog-lover gifts, dog equipment, toys and accessories, books and magazines. Online chat rooms and forums range on topics from dog health

inconsistencies in what people tell you about themselves.

• If you decide to meet someone face to face, tell your friends and meet in public, using your own transportation.

• Alert the site owner to any bad experiences.

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33

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to training and behavior. A calendar reminds members of upcoming events, while the dog business directory puts dog lovers in touch with breeders, vets, dog-friendly hotels and more. “Dog owners share a love of animals and a love of life,” says Pitzel.

Another dating site that distinguishes itself as a meeting place for pet people is DateMyPet.com. When creator Robert Yau spoke with singles, he was surprised at how many relationships ended because the other partner was not compatible with their love of animals. “When the decision came to choose the partner or the pet, it was a no-brainer for the majority – the pet won.”

DateMyPet.com eliminates some of the barriers of meeting people by offering free and fee memberships with a friendly web design that encourages humorous profiles and photos.

Yau’s idea came to him after he saw how easy it was to start a conversation with people with his dog by his side. “That’s the power of our pets – they provide a common link, an understanding of who we are.”

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animal wellness

Rachael Kreisler is also familiar with online dating sites. She met her husband on the Internet in 1999 and now has her own online dating site for animal lovers called KissyKat.com.

What began in October 2003 has now grown to over 4,000 members, with an average of 300 signing up each month.

“We attract a select group of people who identify themselves as pet lovers.

We like to say that this ‘prequalifies’ them for a human relationship, since they’ve shown that they identify themselves as caring and compassionate people,” says Kreisler.

www.animalattraction.com

KissyKat recently teamed up with North Shore Animal League and helps to find loving homes for orphaned animals by donating a percentage of their revenues to the organization. Memberships vary by level of interest and start with free to monthly and yearly memberships. You can send free animal-themed e-cards from the site, join online forums and purchase gift certificates.

www.loveunleashed.com www.kissykat.com http://datemypet.com www.petpeoplefishing.com

Online dating sites are expected to grow over the coming years and those geared towards animal lovers are no exception.

More people will be taking their animals online and on dates, trusting that the strong bond they have already built with their four-footed companion will help carry them into new human relationships.

TRACY B. MCGINNIS IS A FREELANCE WRITER AND CREATOR OF WWW.CAFFEINATEDPEN.COM, AND HAS BEEN PUBLISHED WITH MANY REGIONAL AND ONLINE MAGAZINES.

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animal wellness

35

Congratulations to our Story Contest Winners!

Thanks to everyone who entered our first Story Contest. Our judges were flabbergasted at the quality of the stories we received. And yes, we did laugh. . . and cry. In fact, many of your stories are too good not to share. So look for some of our other entries in future issues of Animal Wellness. All of our winners received Animal Wellness Gift Baskets.

First prize:

"FACE

VALUE"

by Linda Saraco, Winchester, MA

S

ome heroes wear a uniform or a badge; my hero wears fur.

Around five years ago, I had a recurring dream in which I was directed to go to the shelter and adopt a particular dog.

I would know the dog by something unusual about its face, but on waking couldn’t recall the unique facial feature.

I only remembered it was important to identifying the right dog.

Early the following Saturday morning, I went to the shelter to check available canine adoptees, but not one had anything unusual about its face. Then, on my way out, I noticed a box of Chesapeake Lab puppies. My attention was drawn to one in particular. He appeared to have no fur on his face, while the rest were all black with spots of white. Each pup was named after a type of pasta. The one that captured my interest was Fettuccini.

As I lifted him from the box, his large and clumsy paws reached over my shoulders to cling tightly to my back. On closer inspection, I realized he did have fur on his face, but it was a very odd shade of gray that looked like skin. Satisfied he was okay, I put him back with his litter mates.

grin, she said, “Here’s your dog.” I was speechless. I embraced the pup and again felt those big paws hugging my back.

I took the gray-faced pup home and named him Dominic. He was not the typical rambunctious puppy, but was very calm, serious and didn’t play much. He was also obedient, intelligent and very attentive to me. For two years, we lived happily together as Dom grew into a healthy, robust dog and my valued companion.

Then I developed a serious illness. I started having full Grand Mal seizures as well as milder types that caused me to collapse into unconsciousness. On waking, I would always find Dom on top of me. At first, I was not at all happy to have a 90-pound dog on me until I realized he was preventing me from hurting myself by restricting my thrashing. During mild seizures, Dom stood rock solid so I could hold his front legs until it passed. As I started to regain consciousness, his barking would help me revive.

Then it hit me: The face! It’s the dog with the unusual face!

I immediately returned to the pup and we bonded instantly. I could not leave without him. I knew we belonged together.

Dom became my four-legged medical assistant. Without him, I could have suffered much more damage. During my worst period, I would have five Grand Mal seizures a day. I relied on Dominic to warn me before a seizure took hold, and we’d work through it together, each of us knowing what to do till the crisis passed.

At the adoption desk, I was told a family had already selected Fettuccini, but were undecided between him and his littermate, a female named Penne. After an anxiety-filled hour, I saw the family leaving the shelter with Fettuccini.

I began to cry inside. Then I saw the mother of the family walking towards me. My heart pounded as she approached.

For a moment, she didn’t say anything. Then, with a broad

After a year or so, the seizures gradually started to subside.

I am now well again, but Dominic is still watchful and ready to be of assistance. He is a natural born Seizure Assistance Dog. His instincts are astounding, and I am honored to be the most important person in his world. I can’t begin to express the admiration, appreciation and love I have for Dominic. He saved my life. He’s my hero.

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animal wellness

Second prize:

"MONTY

AND

JACK"

by Tina Standing, Saint John, NB

I

have a very special story to tell about my Siberian husky named Monty. Three years ago my husband and I were walking our three dogs along one of our regular routes. It is a long, empty road with a ditch on the side. All of a sudden Monty pulled me into the ditch and dragged me to a box. The look on his face told me something alive (or dead) had to be in that box. The box was duct-taped closed, so with trepidation my husband peeled off the tape and opened the box and a cat looked out.

With horror, we rushed home and opened the box and a tabby cat walked out. He was emaciated and flea ridden, with a damaged ear and one of his back legs was hanging.

It was held on only by a bit of skin. We immediately called the veterinarian.

They think he had been in that box for about four days. He had his leg amputated and has lived happily ever since. We named him “Jack in the Box”. If it hadn’t been for Monty, we would have walked by that box and Jack would have likely died. The story made front-page news and there was a reward out to anyone with information, but nobody came forward. What is even more interesting is that five months previous, Monty suddenly became paralyzed. His back legs wouldn’t function. The vet didn’t hold out any hope and recommended euthanasia. I made the arrangements and then went to see Monty one last time. I saw a flicker of hope, when he was trying to stand up, so figured as long as he had the will to live, I wasn’t ending his life, so we left that night for a vet college three hours away. It turned out Monty had an embolism and with some physiotherapy and lots of love, he made a 95% recovery. I often wonder if he was meant to stay alive so that he could give Jack another chance at life.

I was warned that Siberian huskies are notorious cat killers and that I should find Jack another home, but I brought Jack home and they live together nicely. One thing that has always bothered me is the newspaper made out that my husband and I were the heroes who saved Jack, but it was Monty. He is the hero. He is almost 12 now and slowing down a lot, but whenever we walk by the spot we found Jack, he always stops and looks down into the ditch and I often wonder what he is thinking. Monty is truly a very special friend to Jack and I. animal wellness

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Third prize:

"OLLIE'S

NINE LIVES"

by Linda Ray, Manchester, ME

O

llie and I first met in a local animal shelter. I sat on the floor of a walk-in cage containing a mother cat and her many kittens. The yellow kitten climbed all over me and shunned the attempts of his littermates to play. I returned to the shelter the next day after deciding I really do need a kitten in my life. The big walk-in cage was empty except for the yellow kitten. When asked what happened to the others, the attendant said they all found homes, including the mother. From that day in 1987 to the events in 2000, Ollie has had many adventures, some of which required rescue maneuvers from my husband and me. The road trip from Maine to our winter home in Naples, Florida proved to be the last of his adventures.

Two hours from Naples, Ollie stood on the back power window button and flew out of the car. I watched in horror as he landed in the middle lane of I-75 during Monday morning rush hour. He bounced once and ran into the woods. My husband, Bob, and I looked for hours during which time we talked with the owner of property. He graciously said we could come back the next day and park in his yard. My first task was to place a lost and found in the local paper. There was a $200 reward for this now old, yellow cat.

We set out early the next morning for our two-hour trip north to resume our search. This area can only be described as a spider infested jungle with barbed wire and razor sharp palmetto bushes. The people at home were sympathetic and helpful. It was a long, frustrating day and we debated about going back for a third search.

We had a message from a woman who found our note and a cat. She went on to say this stray entered her house as though he owned it and proceeded to knock over her finch cage, traumatizing her little birds. “I’ve banished this cat to the bedroom,” Gloria said. We made the drive back that very same night. Our thoughts alternated between dread that it wouldn’t be Ollie and joy that it would be. Upon reaching Gloria’s front door we saw her through the glass vacuuming what we believed to be birdseed. We also saw a yellow cat. It was not Ollie and I had to walk away. Just as I reached the car, Bob yelled “That’s her cat.

The other one is still in the bedroom.” We went into the house with great anticipation. Gloria opened the bedroom door and out walked Ollie. He was so happy to be held by me but only for a short time. He had finches to catch.

Ollie is now 17 1/2 years old. We continue to make our road trips to Florida but with all the windows locked!

38

animal wellness

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Alternative therapies help IMPROVE LIFE for FIP cats

by Mark Newkirk, VMD 40

animal wellness

When Smokey, a 1-1/2-year-old Burmese cat, stopped eating, Joanna Smith got worried. Smokey had always had a healthy appetite but now, after several days of only picking at his food, he was losing weight and getting listless. Joanna brought Smokey to my veterinary clinic and, after several tests, we determined the cat had Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). This is never pleasant news to deliver, since it is almost always fatal but, as I explained to Joanna, it also didn’t mean automatic euthanasia. Integrating conventional and alternative veterinary medicine gave us a number of options to try, and we immediately started treatment to give Smokey as long and healthy a life as possible.

What is FIP?

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a progressive viral disease most often affecting young adult cats. There are two types – wet form and dry form. In the wet form, large amounts of fluid build up in the body cavities, especially the abdomen.

Clinical signs vary in the dry form, depending on the organ system affected, which can include the intestines, kidneys, liver, lungs, nervous system or eyes. This form usually has a longer clinical course and the infected cat may live for a year or more. Diagnostic testing is difficult, because FIP is a coronavirus and therefore most tests cross-react and can give false positives. The FIP specific elisa test is the most reliable, although needle aspirates revealing the typical yellow fluid is almost always a tip-off.

Transmission and complications

The usual mode of transmission appears to be from asymptomatic carrier queens to their kittens at five to seven weeks of age, after maternally derived immunity wanes.

Routine disinfection of premises, cages, and food and water dishes readily deactivates the virus and reduces transmission.

Complications of the disease may include pleural effusion (fluid in the chest cavity) or intestinal obstruction from inflammatory abdominal disease. The disease can also spread to the nervous system, causing neurologic signs.

Feline leukemia positive cats are more prone to FIP, because of an already suppressed immune system.

Siegar’s Testimony to Healthy Pet Systems: I am a Dietary Director, supervising both Clinical Nutrition programs and Food Production for the past 17 years, and I wish to thank you for your remarkable products and the difference it has made in the life of my dog, Siegar. Siegar is a 110 pound, 10 year old AKC registered White German Shepard male. Although I did not immediately recognize that he might have been experiencing some pain from the normal aging process, I had noticed some gradual changes in his behavior.

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Shortly after moving into a duplex that has very steep steps leading to the second floor bedrooms, I noticed that Siegar didn’t visit much after I had gone to bed. I would find him sleeping at the bottom of the steps, he just wasn’t quite the energetic pup that he once was.

Only two or three days after I began treating him with your products, both the Flexor and Longevity formulas, I began to get visits again after I had gone to bed. Within a week I noticed his fur had become softer and shiner and he didn’t seem to shed as much. I have also noticed an increased energy level in every aspect of his life. He is again able to play like a puppy. He sprints up the steps with his head up and checks on me an average of three to five times a night.

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Your cat’s risk of contracting FIP is low compared to other feline diseases, but no cure exists in traditional medicine.

You should discuss with your veterinarian about whether or not vaccination is appropriate, based on your cat’s lifestyle, age and health. Cats typically catch the disease between the age of three months to three years, but the incidence sharply decreases after that time. The onset is usually gradual and involves weight loss and decreased appetite, or stunted growth in kittens. The most common presentation is a gradual increase in the size of the abdomen, giving a pot-bellied appearance, and a persistent or fluctuating fever that is unresponsive to antibiotics. No traditional treatment is

Cats most at risk for FIP • Cats raised or living in multi-cat households or catteries • Purebred cats • Outdoor cats • Cats infected with Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) • Cats stressed from malnutrition, overcrowding or other infections animal wellness

41

routinely effective, although some veterinarians will try interferon, which may have limited success.

Alternative medicine offers more options

When dealing with FIP, blending traditional and alternative therapies can really help. In my practice, as a preventative, we will often use the traditional vaccine for high-risk cats, since it is fairly effective and has a low incidence of side effects.

There may be some temporary sneezing and a runny nose after administering the vaccine, since it is given intranasally.

I have also used homeopathic nosodes in the prevention of FIP, although nosodes are not recognized as “legal” therapies in North America, so I don’t use them without a thorough discussion with the client.

I use combinations of alternative therapies in the treatment of FIP. I’ve not found interferon to be much help, and instead use Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET), viral detoxifying herbs, and raw food or cleansing diets, along with sterols and sterolins (Thorne, Moducare/Moduvet) which can help modify the immune response in viral diseases.

I also strongly urge guardians not to vaccinate for any other diseases, to isolate the cat from other felines, and to minimize or stop the use of flea and/or heartworm medications. NAET is very useful in stimulating the immune system against the FIP virus, detoxifying the blood, and balancing organs that may be affected by the disease. Glandular therapy to support specific organs, such as thymus (immune organ) and adrenal (body stress organ), can also be instituted. A metabolic nutritional analysis is very helpful to find and correct any imbalances or deficiencies in the body.

Western or Chinese viral detoxifying herbs are also helpful in the treatment of FIP. I use a combination of Lomatium root, Echinacea Angustafolia and Purpura root, as well as Spilanthes herb and root. In addition, licorice root can be used to reduce inflammation while St. John’s wort will lessen anxiety. A nice combination of these herbs is made

by Azmira (Viral Detox). Herbs can be given with food, but generally work better when administered on their own. They are often very bitter, though, and may need to be mixed with something sweet, especially for cats.

While there isn’t a “cure” for FIP, the therapies outlined do help extend life comfortably for those cats affected. For Smokey, we tapped his abdomen once to release fluid early on, and followed a similar regimen to that above. He and Joanna enjoyed another incredible two years of companionship before Smokey finally succumbed to the disease. Most important to Joanna, using an integrative approach allowed Smokey to live comfortably, without pain, during this precious time.

DR. MARK NEWKIRK IS WITH THE MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL & ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER IN MARGATE CITY, NEW JERSEY.

42

animal wellness

A five-step program from

by Audi Donamor

fat fit

I

s Rover carrying around more weight than he should be?

He’s not alone. Obesity among companion animals has reached an all time high. Recent research by the United States National Research Council indicates that as many as 25 percent of cats and dogs in the Western world are overweight.

We’re bombarded by advertisements claiming that if you take a little red pill or try the latest diet, you can lose four to seven pounds in five days. A growing number of similar products are being offered to guardians of pudgy puppies and chubby cats, but like their human equivalents, they aren’t the solution.

Battling obesity involves a multi-faceted approach that includes understanding its causes and complications, and working closely with a vet to tailor a weight loss program. Here are five steps that will help your companion move successfully from fat to fit.

to

1

1. Find out if he’s fat Animals that weigh anywhere from 10 to 20 percent above their ideal body weight for their size and breed are considered obese.

Luckily, it’s easy to tell if your animal is overweight or obese. If a cat looks fat, she is. You should not see fat deposits on her back, face, or limbs, and her abdomen should not be rounded.

A healthy dog will have a waist when viewed from above, and a tucked stomach when viewed from the side. His ribs should be easily felt through a thin layer of flesh. If one of these signposts is missing, your dog may be overweight; if more than one is missing, and you see fatty deposits over your dog’s chest, spine, and the base of his tail, he is obese. animal wellness

43

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2. Be aware of the risks Obesity causes many of the same problems in animals as it does in us. Dr. Donald Strombeck, DVM, PhD, author of Home-Prepared Dog and Cat Diets: The Healthful Alternative, says that obesity is the most common form of malnutrition affecting dogs in Western countries. According to Dr. John Rush, Professor of Clinical Sciences at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, overweight dogs often have extra fat deposits on their chest walls or inside their chest cavities, which places an additional burden on their cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Another common medical problem caused or aggravated by obesity is arthritis. Your animal can also experience orthopedic problems, from herniated discs to ruptured stifle ligaments. Obesity can also contribute to heat intolerance, skin problems, and even surgical complications, leading to longer recovery time.

Overweight cats are at risk of developing diabetes mellitus, lower urinary tract disease, and hepatic lipidosis, a severe form of liver failure typically occurring in obese cats who have undergone a brief period of stress, which could be as simple as a change in diet. In order to avoid this potentially fatal disease, treatment of feline obesity needs to be approached with caution, and always under the care of a veterinarian.

3

3. Visit the vet

If your dog or cat is overweight, a trip to your veterinarian is in order before any kind of weight management program is put into place. Your animal’s medical history should be considered, along with a thorough physical examination, including a complete blood panel and urinalysis, to ensure that endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism, an insulin imbalance, hyperadrenocorticism or Cushing’s disease, aren’t behind your animal’s weight gain.

Dr. Martin Goldstein, DVM, author of The Nature of Animal Healing, recommends the use of a metabolic analysis which examines your animal’s body, evaluates immune system function, and determines nutritional and glandular requirements.

This information can then be used as part of a complete weight loss program for your companion.

4

4. Take a look at diet

Once hypothyroidism or other metabolic disorders have been ruled out by your veterinarian, it is time develop a weight loss program for your animal. This should be done with the help of a veterinarian, and perhaps an animal nutritionist.

Try keeping a food journal for even one week. (If more than one person feeds your animal, ask them to note quantities and times.) The results may surprise you: Fido and Fluffy may be eating much more than you thought!

Once you really know how much and how often your animal is being fed, you may have to make some changes:

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animal wellness

animal wellness

45

•

Throw guesswork out the window: all food should be measured, and the best way to do this is by actually weighing your animal’s daily ration, including treats.

•

Consider using fresh fruit or vegetables for treats, rather than biscuits. Chunks of fresh apple, carrots and zucchini are great alternatives for dogs.

•

Even many finicky cats enjoy the taste of fresh melon, but keep in mind that a cat needs animal-based proteins and fats and should never be fed a vegetarian diet.

•

If you do give your companion biscuits, break them into tiny pieces. He’ll love you just as much, whether the treat is big or small.

•

Dr. Strombeck points out that fewer calories convert to fat when an animal’s metabolic rate increases. You can help your companion’s body burn more energy by supplementing his diet with Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil sources. Other foods that increase metabolism include vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fruits.

•

Check out http://national-academies.org/petdoor, to learn more about nutrition for companion animals, and how you can help your dog or cat lose weight.

Contrary to popular belief, love is not always spelled f-o-o-d. Free feeding is a major contributing factor to obesity in companion animals, so you can’t give in to those soulful eyes and humming purrs!

5

5. Get him moving Like diet, exercise is a key tool in the fight against obesity, so make a daily activity date with your companion. Going for regular walks, or participating in other activities like swimming, can help dogs become healthier and happier. Dr. Howard Erickson, Professor of Physiology and Anatomy at Kansas State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, adds that even a simple game of ball in the backyard will provide sufficient aerobic exercise for your dog.

Cats also need regular exercise. You can’t take her jogging, but you can coax her off the windowsill for some interactive play.

Consider buying “Da Bird,” one of the top rated toys for cats, whose twirling feather action mimics the motion of a bird in flight. Catnip mice are always popular, and a foil ball makes a great little “hockey puck” for your feline friend.

There is no magic bullet to help your dog or cat lose weight, but with the guidance of your vet, you and your beloved companion can successfully make the trip from fat to fit, and have lots of fun along the way.

AUDI DONAMOR

HAS BEEN SUCCESSFULLY CREATING SPECIAL NEEDS DIETS

FOR DOGS AND CAT FOR TEN YEARS.

46

animal wellness

ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Reg’d. Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch

Inside this issue:

• Animal Communicators • Animal Health Care • Holistic Veterinarians

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

Animal Communicators

Pets Point of View Yucca Valley, CA USA Phone: 760-365-7472 Email: ocotillo@e-universe.com Web site: www.alternativesforanimals.com/ask-anexpert.html

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

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

Grief support, Behavior problems, Tutoring for Animal Communicators. Helping Pets & People.

Jim Prudom Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: 519-570-9150 Therapeutic Touch, Craniosacral, Flower Essences, Tellington Ttouch

TEXAS Marti Miller Austin, TX USA Phone: 512-740-3750 Email: marti2heal@austin.rr.com Web site: www.marti2heal.com Internationally known with twenty plus years experience.

Specializing in health issues.

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

NEW JERSEY

Celestial Creations Rev. Peggy Ray Lincroft, NJ USA Phone: 732-345-8394 Email: celestialcreations@comcast.net Web site: www.celestialcreations.net Phone or in Person. Medical/Healing Intuitive, Bach Flowers, Essential Oils. 30 Years Experience.

NEW YORK

WASHINGTON

Morgine Jurdan Communications With Love Amboy, WA USA Phone: 360-247-7284 Email: morgine@tds.net Web site: www.communicationswithlove.com

Wellness Resource Guide

Wellness Resource Guide

ONTARIO

Workshops/Training

Animal Healthcare CALIFORNIA

Animal Therapies Crestline, CA USA Phone: 909-338-1928 Email: animaltherapies@aol.com Web site: www.animaltherapies.com Massage, Acupressure, Reiki, Essential Oils, Raindrop Therapy, & Integrated Therapies for Dogs, Cats, Horses and more.

Susan Draffan Shining Spirits Ojai, CA USA Phone: 805-646-2690 Email: info@ShiningSpirits.net Web site: www.ShiningSpirits.net Vibrational Essence Therapy and Formulas, Interspecies Communication, Seminars

Jean Connelly Companion Animal Care Sherman Oaks, CA USA Phone: 818-785-4218 Email: jeanconnelly@earthlink.net Animal Communication, transition and Grief Support, emotional and behavioral Problems, Pet sitting in THEIR home

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

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

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

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Animal Communicators - Holistic Veterinarians

Wellness Resource Guide

ILLINOIS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ONTARIO

Burgess Veterinary Mobile Services Dundas, ON Canada Phone: 905-379-3824 Web site: www.burgessvet.com Acupuncture, Animal communication, Flower essences, QXCI Biofeedback therapy,Reiki Nutritional Counselling

Essex Animal Clinic Janice Huntingford, DVM Essex, ON Canada Phone: 519-776-7325 Email: mjberrill@essexanimalclinic.com Web site: www.essexanimalclinic.com

MASSACHUSETTS

Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional & Alternative Medicine & Surgery, Holistic Medicine, Physio & Rehab Therapies

CONNECTICUT

Goderich Veterinary Clinic Goderich , ON Canada Phone: 519-524-2631 Email: holistic@hurontel.on.ca Complementary Medicine, Homeopathy

Guelph Animal Hospital Guelph, ON Canada Phone: 519-836-2782 Email: info@guelphvet.com Web site: www.guelphvet.com

NEW MEXICO

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

Bera Dordoni, N.D. Bernalillo, NM USA Phone: 505-867-5616 Email: bera@singingdoctor.com Web site: www.singingdoctor.com

Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: 905-830-1030 Email: drautumn@sympatico.ca

Massage, energy work & nutritional counseling for dogs & their people

OHIO

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

ILLINOIS

ONTARIO

Chiropractic services for all animals

QUEBEC

Cynthia Harcourt, DVM Queensville, ON Canada Phone: 905-478-1995 Homeopathy, Nutrition, Food Sensitivity Testing, Flower Essences, Herbalism, TTouch

Animal Massage Workshops

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

Bach Remedies, Clinical Nutrition, Herbs, Homeopathy, Physical Therapies

KENTUCKY

Horizon Veterinary Services Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: 502-722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Web site: www.horizonvetserv.com

East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: 416 757 3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Web site: www.holisticpetvet.com Acupuncture, Bach Flower Remedies, Chiropractic Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Reiki, Therapeutic Nutrition

PENNSYLVANIA

MASSACHUSETTS

Holistic Veterinarians CALIFORNIA

NEW JERSEY

Mark Newkirk, VMD DVM Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Margate City, NJ USA Phone: 609-823-3031 Web site: www.alternativevet.com Aquapuncture, Bach Flower Remedies, Cancer Therapies, Chiropractic, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathic, Metabolic Balancing

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

Holistic Veterinarians - Natural Product Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers

ARIZONA

TEXAS

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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

Internet E-Tailers

ILLINOIS

Wellness Resource Guide

RHODE ISLAND

Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. Richmond, BC Canada Phone: 604-276-9799 Email: info@gidbc.ca Web site: www.gidbc.ca Grain-Free - using organic ingredients, no perservatives or additives

Nature of the Pet Margaret C. Williams Fresno, CA USA Phone: 559-455-1170 Email: sales@natureofthepet.com Web site: www.natureofthepet.com

IOWA

All things good for your pet

CALIFORNIA SitStay.com Lincoln, NE USA Toll Free: 800-SITSTAY Phone: 402-467-3426 Email: darcie@sitstay.com Web site: www.sitstay.com Online E-tailer

Only Natural Pet Store

Visit our online store for a huge selection of natural products for your pets!

1-888-937-6677 www.onlynaturalpet.com

Natural Products -

Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers

ALBERTA

Dharma Dog Sonora, CA USA Phone: 209-532-5081 Email: DharmaDog@pacbell.net Web site: www.dharmadog.com Raw diets, supplements, training, treats & toys, flower essences, homeopathic remedies

Celestial Pets Westlake Village, CA USA Phone: 310-278-1385 Email: celestialpet@earthlink.net Web site: www.celestialpets.com

MAINE

Dakota’s Dejeuner Portland, ME USA Phone: 207-773-4344 Email: deedee@dakotasdejeuner.com Web site: www.dakotasdejeuner.com Wean & aid your pets off commercial food onto a raw diet with all natural, homemade Dakota’s Dejeuner!

NEW MEXICO

CONNECTICUT

NEW YORK .

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

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Natural Product Manufacturers, Distributors & Retailers

Wellness Resource Guide

Whiskers Holistic Pet Products New York, NY USA Toll Free: 800-944-7537 Phone: 212-979-2532

OREGON

Natures Balance to Equine Care Estacada, OR USA Toll Free: 503-655-8908 Phone: 866-821-0374 Email: info@NaturesBalanceCare.com Web site: www.NaturesBalanceCare.com

SOUTH CAROLINA

COLORADO

WISCONSIN

High Country Newfoundland Rescue Arvada, CO USA Phone: 303-467-7777 Email: info@highcountrynewfs.org Web site: www.highcountrynewfs.org Rocky Mountain Border Collie Rescue Lafayette, CO USA Phone: 303-906-2648 Email: bordercollierescue@earthlink.net Web site: www.rockymountainbcrescue.org

FLORIDA

Shelters & Rescues

ALABAMA

North Weast AL Herding Dog Rescue Florence, AL USA Phone: 256-740-0375 Email: kbsm@hiwaay.net Web site: www.petfinder.org/shelters/al06.html

ARIZONA

Morning Starr Animal Sanctuary, Inc. Cornville, AZ USA Phone: 928-821-2420 Email: fran@morningstarr.org Web site: www.morningstarr.org

CALIFORNIA

American Shih Tzu Club CA USA Phone: 760-942-0874

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FieldHaven Feline Rescue Lincoln, CA USA Phone: 916-434-6022 Email: fieldhaven@att.net Web site: www.fieldhaven.com Friends For Pets Foundation Sun Valley, CA USA Phone: 818-767-5919 Email: friendsforpets@yahoo.com Web site: www.friendsforpets.org Golden Retriever Club of Greater LA Rescue Los Angles, CA USA Phone: 818-700-5200 Email: hurd@pacbell.net Web site: www.grcglarescue

animal wellness

American Spaniel Club Foundation Melbourne, FL USA Phone: 321-676-0926 Email: ascf.rescue@hotmail.com Web site: www.ascf-cockerspaniel.org

ILLINOIS

Magnificent Mutts & Such Rescue Hillside, IL USA Phone: 708-544-6532 Email: tritown@aol.com Web site: www.magnificentmutts.org

MASSACHUSETTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MICHIGAN

Petsafe Rescue Alliance Inc Traverse City, MI USA Phone: 231-392-3126 Email: michael@petsaferescue.com Web site: www.petsaferescue.com

NEW JERSEY

Siberian Husky Club of Amercia NJ USA Phone: 908-782-2089

NEW YORK

Angel’s Gate Fort Salonga, NY USA Phone: 631-269-7641 Email: susan@angelsgate.org Web site: www.angelsgate.org

WASHINGTON

Cascadia Basset Hound Rescue Olympia, WA USA Phone: 360-705-0919 Email: artietam@comcast.net Web site: www.bassetrescue-wa.org Happy Tails Rescue Goldendale, WA USA Phone: 509-773-4100 Email: toni@happytailsrescue.com Web site: www.happytailsrescue.com

WEST VIRGINIA

BTHaven Independence, WV USA Phone: 304-864-1040 Email: btcaresq@bthaven.org Web site: www.bthaven.org

WISCONSIN

K9 Lifeline Genoa City, WI USA Phone: 262-279-0000 Email: k9lifelinerescue@aol.com Web site: www.k9.petfinder.org Dal-Savers Dalmation Rescue Milwaukee, WI USA Phone: 414-463-2497 Email: herman@aacworkingsolutions.net Save Our Spots Dalmation Rescue, Inc Brown Deer, WI USA Phone: 414-365-2679 Email: sosdalrescue@core.com Web site: www.sosdalrescue.com

P to health!

U P HO A basic guide to natural bunny nutrition

by Ann Brightman

At first glance, it seems nothing could be simpler than feeding a bunny, All he really needs is some veggies to munch on, right? Not so. Bugs Bunny may be able to live on carrots alone, but providing your own rabbit with a diet that meets his nutritional needs and keeps him healthy requires a more balanced and holistic approach that includes a carefully-tailored variety of foods.

Rabbits have unique dietary issues Unlike dogs and cats, bunnies can’t vomit, which means they can develop big problems if they eat the wrong kinds or proportions of food. “It is critical to keep the digestive tract moving at all times,” says Kathy Smith, a Kansas City-based rabbit educator and co-founder of the Rabbit Adoption and Information Network. “If the GI tract slows down, a blockage may develop.” Kathy adds that any alteration to your rabbit’s diet needs to be made gradually, especially when introducing new items and changing brands and types of food.

Basically, the cornerstones of a natural rabbit diet are hay, fresh vegetables, good quality pellets, and a little fruit. If possible, the food should be organic. “Chemicals and pesticides can cause a multitude of health problems,” says Dr. Anna Maria Gardner, a veterinarian in Spokane Valley, Washington. As with any other animal, though, bunnies are individuals, which means there’s no ideal diet to suit all rabbits. “The proper balance of food may be different for each rabbit and may change as he grows older,” says Kathy. For example, Toronto veterinarian Dr. Petra Burgmann recommends giving no fresh greens to a rabbit under six months of age. “Even then, introduce them carefully and be consistent in giving a small amount each day,” she says. “Sudden consumption of a large quantity of greens can predispose him to bacterial overgrowth in the digestive tract.”

Even adult rabbits can vary significantly in the kind of diet they do best on. “Some thrive on a ‘no pellet’ diet and develop diarrhea if fed pellets,” says Kathy. “Others thrive on a ‘hay and pellet’ diet and suffer painful gas whenever fresh produce is offered.” With this in mind, it’s very important to work with your vet before making any changes to your rabbit’s diet. He/ she can also help you determine the best proportions of hay, veggies and pellets to feed your bunny.

Bring on the hay Whatever your rabbit’s particular needs, hay should be the main item on the menu. “A rabbit’s diet should consist of 80 percent good quality hay such as timothy, brome, oat or orchard grass,” says Dr. Burgmann. Bluegrass, Bermuda, wheat, barley, and rye

hays can also be fed. The emphasis on hay may seem strange until you consider how wild bunnies eat. As herbivorous browsers, rabbits living wild depend on grasses, herbs and other plants for their sustenance, and will also sample cultivated crops if they get the chance. “A wide variety of grass hays and fresh grasses can help teeth wear evenly, since each different texture requires different chewing mechanics,” says Kathy. Alfalfa, clover and legume hays aren’t recommended because they can cause weight gain and GI problems. Wherever possible, look for organically grown hay.

Picking a pellet Not all experts feel pellets are necessary, but if you do feed them to your bunny, it’s important to make sure you get a good quality product that’s as natural as possible.

•“Read product labels,” advises Kathy.

“Look for a pellet that contains at least 16 percent fiber, no more than 16 percent protein, no more than 2 to 3 percent fat, and no more than 1 percent calcium.”

• Choose an organic pellet made from natural ingredients.

“Look for a product free of artificial preservatives, f lavors, colors and other additives,” says Dr. Gardner.

Anaflora Flower Essence Therapy for Animals Help restore physical, emotional and spiritual balance in your animal companion.

Created by animal communicator Sharon Callahan, the specialized formulas include: Return to Joy: for abuse of any kind Recovery Remedy: for physical trauma and emotional shock Tranquility: for everyday nervousness Harmony: for the introduction of a new animal or human baby Relocation: for moving stresses Aggression: for the overly aggressive dog Special Stress: for relief in stressfull situations

To order, call the Animal Store at

1-866-926-1245 or visit anaflora.com

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• Avoid so-called “gourmet” pellets: these contain ingredients like dried fruit, nuts and seeds, which can contribute to weight gain, and corn, beans or peas, all of which can trigger serious health problems. “A rabbit’s digestive tract was not designed to digest these items,” says Dr. Burgmann.

•“Regardless of the brand, never feed old or expired pellets, or ones that have been wet, as they may contain microscopic amounts of mold,” says Kathy. “If possible, buy pellets in the original manufacturer’s bag, and purchase only a two-month supply at a time.”

•Pellets can cause obesity in some rabbits. “If your adult rabbit is gaining weight, consider limiting pellets to a daily serving of ¼ cup per five pounds of rabbit,” Kathy advises.

Pass the veggies, please Fresh greens and other vegetables are an important component of a rabbit’s diet. “They provide water, essential nutrients and vitamins,” says Dr. Gardner. “Again, organic and fresh is best, and wash them first.” The following vegetables can be safely fed to your rabbit: GREENS – mustard, Swiss chard, dandelion, collard, beet tops, carrot tops (because of their sugar content, reserve carrot roots as a treat) LETTUCE – leaf, Romaine, endive, escarole (iceberg is not recommended) HERBS – parsley, basil, borage, cilantro, dill, mint CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES – broccoli, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts Rabbits also enjoy fresh fruit, but feed it in moderation because of its sugar content. “Fruit as a treat is acceptable,” says Dr. Gardner. “I would give up to two tablespoons a day. Choices can include apples, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, cranberries, melons, peaches, pears, raspberries, strawberries and pineapples. Avoid bananas, grapes and especially dried fruits, which are very concentrated, high in sugar and low in water.”

Other dietary no-nos for rabbits are bread, cereals, grains, oatmeal, seeds and nuts, as well as dairy foods, cookies and other sweet treats such as the “treat sticks” sold at pet stores, which often contain honey. Many of these foods are too high in carbohydrates and can cause obesity or upset your rabbit’s digestion.

What about supplements?

As Dr. Gardner points out, many of the foods grown today don’t have the same level of nutrition as they did in the past. “I do recommend a quality vitamin and mineral supplement formulated specifically for rabbits, as well as a good probiotic.”

Tailoring the right diet for your rabbit will admittedly take some time, and should involve the ongoing advice of a holistic vet experienced in small animal care. Once you’ve found the perfect combination of healthy, natural foods, however, you’ll soon see by your bunny’s increased well being that it’s time well worth spent.

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Noxious energy fields may endanger you and your animals

By Gloria Dodd, DVM

D

espite the best health care available, many animals and people still suffer from chronic degenerative diseases. There are many reasons for this, some of which include misdiagnosis, failure of the patient to follow through with therapy, adverse affects of combining different drug therapies prescribed by more than one doctor (iatrogenics), the effects of persistent chemical exposures of environmental heavy metal pollutants and pesticides, vaccinosis from overvaccinating, poor nutrition, genetic weaknesses and persistent stress.

However, there is one more factor not recognized by the mainstream medical/veterinary community – noxious environmental energy radiation fields. These detrimental radiation fields, which affect both people and animals, may stem from the earth (geopaths) or from man-made radiations (electromagnetics or EMFs).

Radiation from the earth Noxious zones (geopathigenic zones) are caused by underground moving water veins, ground faults, caverns and metal ore deposits. These zones are very common¸ and emit low-level gamma radiation, microwaves, and a weak magnetic field. The effects on animal and human health are well documented and studied. The Chinese Emperor Kwang Yu wrote about noxious energy fields in 2000 BC., terming them “The Claw of The Dragon”. For thousands of years, early man was innately aware of energy fields. He established holy places where strong healing energies were being emitted from the earth, (the Pyramids of Geza in Egypt, Stonehenge in England, the Yucatan Pyramids and Machu Piccu in Peru), and avoided the areas of noxious ray energies.

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In modern history, much scientific research has been done on the subject in many countries, including a 40-year study by the government of the Netherlands.

Other countries have taken action to reduce the impact of these zones on their citizens. In Western Germany, for example, officials installed electronic devices to neutralize the noxious zones around highways. These areas apparently subconsciously distracted drivers by altering their brainwaves and thereby causing accidents.

Studies have linked arthritis, hypertension and cancer to people sleeping over these energy zones. They prevent the body from resting and rebuilding during sleep. Office and factory workers exposed to such zones show increased irritability, and lowered resistance to illness. Studies have shown that homes built over such zones rate high in broken marriages and illness.

In animals, the effects of these noxious energy zones are magnified because they usually spend more time at home than their humans, who often leave to work, shop, and attend social events.

Manmade electromagnetic noxious energies While radiation fields exist in Nature, we’ve also created our own versions. These include microwaves, televisions, electrical transformers, high-energy electrical power lines, and all electrical units; fluorescent lights (which are insidiously weakening to the health), cellular telephones, your computer and radio.

We live in a world of jangled energy wave impulses that impact on our own body’s natural electromagnetic field.

Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture,

has proven that an imbalance in this energy field of the body will, in time, manifest in physical organic disease.

Interesting to note:

The Gregorian chant has a protective My own sad experience vibration energy field that blocks with these noxious energy noxious radiation from EMFs. fields involved my three How or why we don’t know. dogs – Bruder, a 10-yearold male German shepherd, Duffie, a 12-year-old male Irish wolfhound, and Miggs, a seven-year-old spayed female Walker hound. Due to their homemade diet and the holistic modalities I practiced, the dogs looked healthy, especially for their ages. Then, over time, I noticed a deteriorating change in their appearance.

Their coats, once shiny and full, now appeared dry and listless.

Miggs was coughing and gave every indication of congestive heart disease. X-rays proved without doubt that Bruder and Duffy suffered from arthritis. Auscultation of Miggs’s lungs revealed fluid in the air spaces, and x-rays showed an enlarged heart. What had suddenly gone so wrong? I was doing everything I had been taught to keep my animals healthy. What had changed?

It was at this time I attended a conference at the University of California at Santa Cruz. One of the speakers talked about noxious energy fields and how they affected people, animals and plants deleteriously. The most common were geopathic energies.

Plants in these areas have poor growth, low yield, and in cases of trees, show “cancer” growths of gnarled round tissues. Many times the trunk of the trees will grow spiraled as if trying to move out of the noxious path of energy. Stucco buildings show cracking in their interior and exterior surfaces; cement floors crack deeply – when in the path of two intersecting underground streams. Spiders, hornets, wasps and ants tend to build nests in noxious fields around the home since they thrive in it. People sleep poorly if their beds are centered over these areas, many in constant fatigue and poor health, ranging from headaches and joint pain to congestive heart and kidney failure, severe arthritis, allergies, tuberculosis, digestive and endocrine disorders, chronic bacterial and viral infections and cancer. The same scenarios apply to animals. At the conference I learned how to detect these noxious fields by dowsing (see p. 57) and to trace their trajectories. I also learned how to neutralize the effects with various products.

Unfortunately for my own animals I learned too late. Bruder developed liver cancer, Duffy, intractable, crippling arthritis and Miggs, a failing heart. I had to euthanize all of them to free them of their pain. The human members of our family escaped harm simply because they spent far less time at home. I worked in my clinic miles away, my husband taught at a college and my two girls were in school most of the day. The animals, on the other hand, were captives of their environment. I decided to take a closer look at their immediate surroundings. The first thing that I saw animal wellness

55

InflamAway Plus • Hip and joint • Arthritis • Hip displaysia • Stiff and painful joints The most complete joint product from KR NaturalPets.

Contains: glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin & yucca.

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• nervousness • anti-oxidants • and much more.

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was the elm tree in front of their kennel. It had a peculiar round, ugly growth draining a dark brown substance (it reminded me of an abscess I’ve seen in animals). This occurred at the base where the two main limbs of the tree branched out. The right half of the tree was green with foliage whereas the left half of the tree had only a few dry and curled leaves.

Dowsing for a noxious energy field, I found a ray four feet wide that came from two underground intersecting streams. The path of this ray ran from behind the tree through the right side only (as if you had cut the tree in half) and made a beeline down the center of the kennel. Since the dogs’ quarters were only five feet wide, they essentially lived in this destructive ray.

It continued its path through our house (the cement floor in the greenhouse room was cracked), through the living room fireplace, and exited through a corner of the house outside through a planter area where I had difficulty raising flowers or shrubs. Numerous other man-made noxious energy fields added to the load – TV, VCR, oven, stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer, electric blankets, electric alarm clocks, etc. I found others, including telephones, the hot water heater and hot water pipes. (Remember water and metal conduct electricity. That’s why you never stand under a tree or talk on a telephone during a lightning storm.

Trees are 90% water and telephones are attached to metal electrical circuitry.

I found if an electrical appliance was

Case study: Recurrent fibroblastic osteosarcoma in carpus of a cat, Mill Valley, CA. The cancerous growth was surgically removed three times. The presence of electromagnetic fields was detected in the home, along with severe vertical geopaths. Once geopaths were removed and electrical wiring and plumbing in the home were neutralized, the tumor never returned. The health of the homeowners also improved and they now sleep better and have more energy. hot tub

BACK YARD exterior door

french doors

fireplace

BEDROOM

LIVING ROOM

CLOSET

energy vortex created by vein crossings

full wall sink

BATHROOM

stove

STAIRCASE TO 2nd FLOOR

DINING ROOM

DEN

GROUND FLOOR

KITCHEN

front door

CENTER OF ENERGY VEIN

OUTER EDGE OF ENERGY VEIN

These geopaths were centered in the bathroom, the breakfast area and two bedrooms (upstairs). Since most of our time is spent in bed sleeping (estimated 1/3 of our life), it is essential the bedrooms be clear of noxious energies. By such methods as remote detection and clearing by an experienced dowser, one can correct these noxious radiations anywhere in the world.

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over two underground intersecting streams it “malignatized” (made worse) the destructive energy field of the household appliance.)

If you notice that you do not feel well in your place of work, or if both you and your animals are suffering pain and illness, you should consider a service for detection and clearing these noxious energies.

Visit the American Society of Dowsers at www.dowsers.org or the Canadian Society of Dowsers at www.canadiandowsers.org for a list of dowsers in your area, or visit www.everglo-naturalvet.com.

HOLISTIC

VETERINARIAN

DR. GLORIA DODD NOW MANAGES AN INFORMATION AND PRODUCTS CALIFORNIA – WWW.EVERGLO-NATURALVET.COM

WEBSITE FROM HER HOME IN NORTHERN

Photo provided by the American Society of Dowsers

After identifying these areas in the house and yard, I used anti-radiation devices I had purchased at the conference to clear all noxious energy fields, earth energies and man-made energies. I continue to monitorfrequently since these fields move in time, especially in earthquake-prone country. The Bay area of San Francisco, where I live, is fraught with shifting Pacific and California plates underground and within the ocean floor, so we have numerous earthquakes every year, some pretty severe. The movement changes the trajectory of the underground streams and mineral deposits, so it is a good idea to do an updated examination after every earthquake, and even yearly. But I have found these geopaths occurring all over the U.S. and globally. More noxious energy fields (noxious EMFs or electromagnetics) are being added by increasing numbers of satellites launched overhead by both the military and commerce; and the increased gridding of this planet by telecommunications on land, in the air and within the oceans.

What is dowsing?

You’ve probably seen it in the movies, or perhaps your grandfather tried his hand at it. Using a forked stick, a person would “witch” for water, hoping to find the right place to dig the well. That’s dowsing. L-rods, pendulums, Y-rods, bobbers and aura meters now replace the forked stick. Everyone is born with the capability since it works with our intuition. Children up to the age of 15 or 16 are almost universally sensitive.

DON’T FEED YOUR PET! ...Let Ergo Do It!

The Autopetfeeder can be used by all pet owners to feed their pet at the appropriate time with preset quantity of food for weeks at a time.

• The Autopetfeeder comes in 3 convenient sizes.

• A great time saver for the elderly and disabled.

• Great for people on the go.

• You’ll never need to depend on anyone to feed your pet, the Autopetfeeder will do it for you.

• Feeds small portions of food at scheduled times for your diabetic pet.

(Veterinarian recommended) Can be programmed up to eight times a day.

The Filtered Pet Waterer can be used by all pet owners for providing their pets with clean sparkling fresh water all the time.

For more information: Check us out at: www.autopetfeeder.com 1-888-ERGOSYS or email: contact@autopetfeeder.com

• The Filtered Pet Waterer comes in 3 convenient sizes.

• A great time saver for the elderly and disabled.

• Great for people on the go.

• Automatic aeration system and eight layer filter enables precipitation of dissolved solids and guarantees algae free water.

• Clean oxygenated crystal clear flowing water, pets drink more water which keeps them hydrated, healthy and reduces kidney and liver problems.

The 8-Day Feeder is designed for wet and dry food as well as dispensing pet meds.

• Digital timer / user programmable up to 8 times a day unlike fixed cycle feeders.

• Custom voice recording, calls pet to feed.

• Great for people on the go.

• Dishwasher safe bowl.

• Reusable ice packs, keeps wet food cool.

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Communication

respect are key to natural and

horsemanship

by Lisa Ross-Williams

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F F

ull of spirit, the gray seems to dance with the woman as she communicates her wishes from the ground. There are no whips to make him obedient. Instead, through natural communication and respect, the gray follows her cues and navigates logs, jumps and other obstacles.

Later, knowing the horse is inviting her to ride, the woman swings onto his bare back and asks him to turn his head to remove the hand-tied halter. Even though there are no physical bonds to hold him, he follows her seemingly invisible cues, appreciating her trust and enjoying their interaction.

Imagine having a horse like this, one who is truly your partner, responding willingly to your slightest request, cooperating to accomplish everyday tasks, and happy in your company. Imagine standing next to your trailer and asking your horse to load at liberty. This is natural horsemanship.

Communication, understanding and mutual respect are the foundations of natural horsemanship, and far more powerful than mechanical force or intimidation. By following some basic principles, and getting involved in a natural training program, you’ll be able to develop the relationship you’ve always dreamed of with your equine partner.

Fundamental principles for working with your horse •EVERY INTERACTION WITH YOUR HORSE IS IMPORTANT. Natural horsemanship isn’t just about using certain techniques when you’re training, but is a mindset to hold every time you’re around your equine partner.

•GROUNDWORK IS ESSENTIAL AND SHOULD COME BEFORE RIDING. The communication and respect you gain on the ground translates directly to saddle work.

•NEVER TRY TO BE SNEAKY WHEN DEALING WITH HORSES. They always know when you’re not being up front, and will then lose trust in you. Don’t hide halters behind your back or bribe them with food. A good leader can be trusted.

•LACK OF COOPERATION MAY BE A SIGN OF PHYSICAL PAIN. If a horse is reluctant to pick up a certain lead, flex laterally, or even pick up his feet, rule out and correct any physical problems before blaming the horse for disobedience.

•EMOTIONAL FITNESS IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. Learn to control your emotions, especially anger. When humans “lose it,” they lower themselves in the eyes of the horse. You can be assertive without being aggressive.

•DON’T USE MECHANICAL FORCE FOR CONTROL OR PUNISHMENT. Tools should be minimal and should not cause pain. Fear will overcome pain when a horse is scared. Remember that a horse’s brakes are in his head, not his mouth. animal wellness

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Natural horsemanship programs and clinicians Parelli Natural Horsemanship: A step by step development program for both horse and human. Offers books, videos, worldwide instructors, clinics, support network and instructor certification programs. www.parelli.com Buck Brannaman: Sound horsemanship without a lot of fancy packaging.

Learning resources include books, videos, and clinics. www.brannaman.com John Lyons: A well-known program that offers books, videos, worldwide instructors, clinics, and instructor certification programs. www.johnlyons.com Ray Hunt: A horseman in the truest sense, who holds clinics throughout the •IT’S RELEASE THAT TEACHES, NOT PRESSURE. Accept and reward small successes, then build on them. Immediate release helps the horse understand how to be light.

•USE LESS PRESSURE THAN YOU THINK YOU’LL NEED. Give your horse the benefit of the doubt and you’ll be amazed how light he can be.

•MAKE

THE RIGHT THINGS EASY AND THE

WRONG THINGS DIFFICULT, BUT DO ALLOW ™

THE HORSE TO MAKE MISTAKES.

Set up the situation so that the horse figures out the answer on his own. Micro-managing results in a frustrated horse and a tired handler.

•DON’T MAKE THE HORSE STAND STILL. Remember that horses are prey animals that survive by running from threats. It’s not productive to “make him stand still” when he’s bothered. Allow him to move, but make it on your terms by asking him to circle, go backwards and/or sideways.

Eventually, he’ll figure out that it’s easier to stand still, and it becomes his idea.

•DO WHAT HORSES DO. Take the time to just watch them interact. What can you BASED

™

i

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world. Best to have a foundation before attending. www.rayhunt.com Mark Rashid: Provides a slightly different outlook on the “alpha” horse concept. Clinics, books, and videos. www. markrashid.com GaWaNi Pony Boy: A Native American perspective on horsemanship. Clinics, demos, private evaluation, books and videos. www.ponyboy.com Dan Sumerel: A former race car driver turned horseman. Books, videos and clinics throughout the U.S. www.sumereltraining.com

learn by watching a herd leader?

•MAKE IT FUN. Use your imagination to incorporate obstacles, turn on some music and dance with him. Your horse will be less inclined to become bored and tune you out.

•SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR HORSE to help enhance your relationship, sitting with him while he’s eating, or stroking him while he’s napping.

•ONCE YOUR HORSE HAS LEARNED SOMETHING, FIND A TASK THAT WILL PUT THE PRINCIPLE TO USE. Horses get bored very easily if they see no point to the lessons.

Natural horsemanship is an integral part of the whole horse concept. It results in a happier and more willing horse, and promotes a much safer and fulfilling relationship for you and your equine friend. You don’t need to be a “horse whisperer” or have decades of experience.

All it takes is an open heart and mind, along with the desire and dedication to learn and grow along with your horse.

ARIZONA, LISA ROSS-WILLIAMS IS A NATURAL HORSE CARE CONSULTANT, PHOENIX RADIO TALK SHOW, If Your Horse Could Talk. SHE HAS DEDICATED HERSELF TO EXTENSIVE RESEARCH AND HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE. LISA HAS COMPLETED THE BASIC VETERINARY HOMEOPATHY COURSE THROUGH THE BRITISH INSTITUTE OF HOMEOPATHY, HOLDS AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PLANT SCIENCE, AND IS CURRENTLY STUDYING TO BE A CERTIFIED EQUINE IRIDOLOGIST. WWW.NATURALHORSETALK.COM IN

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What’s Gnu? New group to study holistic medicine

The Veterinary Research Council, a newly incorporated non-profit organization formed to conduct research on the efficacy of natural medicine, was officially launched at the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association conference in Kansas City this past October. The council evolved from the Veterinary Institute of Integrative Medicine, an organization whose mission is to raise awareness of the benefits of holistic medicine. Funding will come from member organizations who pledge to donate a portion of their sales to the council. www.viim.org

Cookies with a heart

They’re not only good for your animal, but they help humans too. AvoDerm Kookies from Breeder’s Choice are oven-baked natural treats made from rice, lamb, flax seed, selected herbs and blueberries, a flavorful fruit that contains a cancer-fighting antioxidant.

The bags are marked with a signature pink leash-shaped ribbon to support the fight against breast cancer, and every time you buy one, a portion of the sale is donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. www.breeders-choice.com

Speak out for safer vaccinations

More and more animal guardians and vets are becoming aware of the dangers of over-vaccination, but regulations and laws are slow to change. You can make your voice heard by signing an online petition reminding the U.S. government and the American Veterinary Medical Association of the risks of routine vaccinations and urging them to make changes to protect animals.

These include the establishment of new vaccination guidelines and the implementation of a “veterinary vaccine injury act.” www.petitiononline.com/petvax23/petition.html.

Accidents will happen

Seal helps you choose quality supplements

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve and standardize the animal supplement industry, the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) recently launched its Quality Seal Program. The seal lets consumers know they’re buying from a reputable manufacturer who has successfully completed a facility audit and agrees to adhere to NASC’s standards. NASC was formed in 2001 when the supplement industry was threatened by a complicated regulatory environment, and is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the health of companion animals. www.nasc.cc

An invigorating idea

There are lots of way to protect your animal’s health, but you can’t always avoid environmental toxins in the air, water and food. The Honest Kitchen can help with Invigor, a new supplement with powerful antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. This blend of six herbs (kelp, astragalus, hawthorne, olive leaf extract, spirulina and watercress) combats free radicals and cleanses and revitalizes the body. It’s ideal for older animals or those with compromised immunity. www.thehonestkitchen.com

Whether you’re training a new puppy, dealing with a cat who won’t use the litterbox, or have an older animal who’s incontinent, you’re going to have to deal with messes. Catpaper and Piddle Paws can make your life a lot easier. Constructed from recycled absorbent non-toxic paper bonded to a clear plastic backing, both products come in rolls or bags of pads and can be placed wherever your animal goes, to soak up accidents before they reach your flooring or upholstery. www.catpaper.com

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This dog rocks

Ever heard of mixbreed acid rock? It’s what you’ll hear on K9 Fusion – Who Really Loves You?, a CD of canine music starring Sven the Love Dog and his guardian, trainer Steve Brooks of K9U Dog Training.

With his own unique style, and some supporting help from a few dog buddies, Sven plays his own instruments and howls and growls his way through tracks like “Dirty Dog Love” and “Rock Canidae”.

The CD also includes a quicktime video showing Sven in action on the piano and guitar. www.k9u.net

legal beagle

The changing face of animal law

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by Robert Ferber Photo: Michele A. Grabley

Not long ago, I participated in a unique and historically significant two-day “animal law” conference at Yale Law School in New Haven, Connecticut. Unlike virtually all other animal welfare gatherings and conferences I’ve attended, this one involved only attorneys. In fact, the entire event focused on the incredibly innovative and persistent efforts lawyers are making to further the rights of animals.

A couple of things struck me about this event. The first was the gender mix. Instead of the 90 percent women and 10 percent men typically found at animal welfare conferences and gatherings, this event was almost 50/50 men and women. Secondly, even though the conference was sponsored by the student chapter of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, a non-profit organization that assists attorneys and law students (mostly prosecutors) in animal welfare cases, I was, as far as I know, one of only two criminal prosecutors present. The rest were civil attorneys practicing business, real estate, and other civil areas of law seemingly unrelated to animal rights. In addition, many if not most of the students didn’t necessarily intend to make a career of “animal law,” but obviously wanted to know what they could do while practicing other areas of law. (The major reason most law students cannot realistically plan on a career dedicated to animal welfare is because, as long as animals are still regarded as property, there will never be enough money to be made in court to support even the most frugal attorney…lawyers have to eat too).

Legal interest in animal welfare is gaining ground The conference was a milestone in other ways too. Only a few years ago, there was literally no such thing as “animal law.” Students and attorneys have been asking me for years how they can use their skills to help animals. I was at always a loss for words, since there are virtually no prosecutors or law enforcement personnel specializing in this area. What could a civil attorney do, when he/she can’t prosecute someone criminally for animal abuse? Even the animal abuse prosecutions you see on Animal Precinct are the exception rather than the rule. Until recently, there wasn’t even a law book available on the subject. In short, there simply was no such thing as animal law!

tens of thousands for other well-established areas of law), so the idea of law students and attorneys coming together to learn how to help animals, while knowing there is no financial gain involved, was very inspiring. It at least demonstrates that lawyers are becoming a major part of the animal welfare movement. We’ve certainly come a long way from the days when, just a few years back, the term “animal law” only referred to a few abuse prosecutors and a handful of attorneys handling dog bite cases.

Now there are several books on the topic, and more are about to be published at law schools nationwide. The number of animal law cases is still only in the dozens (versus the

It’s worth noting the critical role the legal system has always played in initiating and enforcing social change. Virtually all social progress in North America has either been initiated or

Social change and the legal system

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legal beagle legally validated by a lawsuit or criminal prosecution. Every social movement, including civil rights, first involved the legal system’s willingness to consider the issues that required change to occur, and to eventually accept responsibility for enforcing those changes. As an example, the U.S. Supreme Court vigorously supported “separate but equal” conditions for African Americans for decades, then almost as quickly changed its opinion and found “separate but equal” unconstitutional, sparking one of the major components of the civil rights movement. Until that court decision was made, true equality was impossible for African Americans.

Thousands of other court cases have continued to facilitate civil rights. Even when a legislature, prime minister or president initiates social change through a law or government policy, lawyers will eventually be in court trying to enforce these changes (while others will admittedly be defending the status quo). We may not always agree with the decisions or progress the legal system makes to enforce appropriate social change such as civil or animal rights, but I think it’s impossible to deny the crucial part the legal justice system plays in order for social change to actually happen.

For this reason, the conference I attended is very significant for the current and future rights of animals. For the first time ever, renowned lawyers, legal scholars and, most importantly, law

students from 25 states and Canada, came together in a small Connecticut town to share their experiences and brainstorm on how to use and, if necessary, force the legal system to bring about change regarding animal rights. Even more amazing, in a way, was the number of civil attorneys who attended, especially as fewer than one percent of all attorneys are in criminal law.

In other words, the other 99 percent of the profession is now flexing its muscles on behalf of animals!

What’s just as noteworthy is that all the attorneys who participated are doing what they can for animal rights on their own time, at either reduced legal fees or for nothing at all.

They are also often handling cases that involve more work than a criminal prosecution. These cases can last years and involve thousands of documents, dozens of hours of research, and court appearances throughout the continent. In most cases, they are also going after mega-corporations with huge staffs of lawyers prepared to outgun and overwhelm even the most experienced and well-meaning group of attorneys.

Innovation is the key An example of the innovative ways attorneys are trying to enforce and improve animal welfare involves law professor and animal law pioneer Bruce Wagman’s lawsuit against the California Dairy Association for its advertising campaign claiming that their dairy cows are “happy”. (Farm animal welfare experts are almost unanimous that California cows are possibly the most inhumanely treated cattle in the United States.) In a fascinating presentation, Wagman described how he used false advertising laws instead of criminal laws to try and improve the welfare of farm cattle.

While most participants at the conference reluctantly agreed that it is still very much an uphill battle, and that most efforts in court have not been successful, this event was an empowering experience. It left over 200 lawyers and students more motivated than ever to “fight the fight,” forcing the legal system to take note of the cruel and inhumane treatment of animals, and eventually making court rulings that will ensure the long-overdue social changes for animal welfare will finally become reality.

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 FOSTERS “UNADOPTABLE” ANIMALS AND RUNS AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM THAT TEACHES SCHOOLCHILDREN REVERENCE FOR ALL LIFE.

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You could win an original portrait of your animal, a natural gift basket full of goodies, free food, and more!

It’s that time again! Time to show us what makes your animal friend so amazing.

Enter our Amazing Animals Photo Contest and you could win one of 10 prizes up for grabs, plus your photo will appear in an upcoming issue of Animal Wellness Magazine for all to see. What a great tribute to your special friend!

This year, you can enter in one of the categories below, or simply let our judges choose which category fits best. Enter by April 7, 2005 for your chance to win.

•Best photo

•Funniest

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•Best nature-lover •Best Pals

The rules are simple: 1. Send a digital photo, scanned at a minimum of 5” x 7”, at 300 dpi resolution in a tif, jpeg or pdf format, to photos@animalwellnessmagazine.com or send a hard copy original photo of your animal to: Photo contest, Animal Wellness Magazine, US: PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 CAN: 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 2. Please remember to include your name, address and telephone number, along with your animal’s name, sex and age (if known) and a short description of the photo.

Hard copy photos must have contact information printed on the back of the photo.

3. You may submit a maximum of two photos of each animal in your home.

2004 Winner of Best Photo Category Jo-Ann Gerde, Gardner, MA “Lucy”

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animal communication

Love gives Norton a new lease on life

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by Sharon Callahan When Elizabeth Fulton first encountered Norton in the shelter where she volunteers, the large tabby cat’s heart-wrenching condition seemed hopeless. She could not remember ever seeing such a dejected creature. Ever since being dropped off several weeks earlier, Norton had been sitting in the back of his cage, eyes tightly closed and his head resting on his own dried feces. “He seemed to be making a metaphorical statement about his place in the universe,” says Elizabeth.

He seldom ate, was unresponsive to the staff and seemed to have completely given up on life. When Elizabeth connected with Norton heart to heart, however, something shimmered beneath his sorrowful exterior and she knew he could be helped. She silently communicated to him that she would not give up, and visited him daily, giving him Reiki treatments, a daily dose of Return to Joy flower essence, and an outpouring of love. He immediately began to show subtle signs of improvement.

Norton reveals his painful past

Elizabeth sensed that allowing Norton to tell his own story would facilitate his healing, so she asked me to commune with him. I was able to connect with him easily, but he was at first reluctant to reveal his story because he didn’t want to “get anyone in trouble.” When Elizabeth and I reassured him, he soon relaxed and his story unfolded. It turned out that his beloved person had died and he had been given to relatives who didn’t really want him. Things went from bad to worse as he was passed from one person to another. His grief intensified and he began to feel completely unwanted and without purpose. Taking to the streets in search of a place where he would feel useful again, he encountered some rough teenagers who captured

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and hurt him. After his escape, he was sure he would die. He was forgiving of everyone, but just felt too worn out to start over. It was then that a good Samaritan noticed his condition and dropped him off at the shelter where Elizabeth works.

On the path to healing After learning about his background, Elizabeth continued to work patiently and diligently with Norton. One day, while she supported him, another staff member, Gail, began gently massaging his body. Moments later, the women thought they heard purring. They turned off the radio to listen more closely. Sure enough, the faint rumble was coming from Norton! Continuing to purr, he began responding to Gail’s scratches by stretching out his back legs.

That was when the women noticed that his tail had been badly mutilated, leaving only a ragged two-inch stump. Given what Norton had communicated to us about his past, Elizabeth wasn’t surprised, but Gail was so shocked she impulsively leaned over and kissed Norton on the top of his head.

“He responded to the kiss by literally crying,” says Elizabeth.

“Tear after tear fell from his eyes.

After a few minutes, his eyes opened and he engaged deeply with us. I praised his bravery and encouraged him to release his emotions. I let him know I would act as a witness to all he had been through, however long it took.” A few minutes later, Norton withdrew to the back of his cage, but this time something was different. His eyes stayed open and he remained emotionally engaged with the two women. “I thanked him for the privilege of bearing witness to the release of his grief,” says Elizabeth. “The next day he greeted me openly. As Gail and I worked with him, he stretched and purred and closed his eyes in pleasure rather than to shut the

world out. He looked around curiously and his body was relaxed and supple. He was a completely different cat!”

In the days that followed, Elizabeth continued with Reiki treatment, flower essences and heart-to-heart communion. Norton was now grooming himself, showing interest in the other cats, purring loudly and coming out of his cage on his own. “He even rolled over for belly rubs and thanked everyone who petted him by licking their hand.”

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Norton finds a home By the time Norton emerged from his shell of grief, the shelter staff had fallen in love with him and were considering keeping him on as the shelter mascot. At about the same time, a couple came in who also fell in love with him and wanted to adopt him.

Elizabeth was conflicted over what was right for Norton. She had become so involved with him that she wasn’t sure that her perspective was balanced, so she contacted me again. When I communed with Norton, I found him to be in conflict, too. In his gentlemanly way, he didn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings or seem ungrateful, but his heart’s desire was to have a home of his own. He felt the job of shelter mascot better suited one of the younger cats. Elizabeth and I assured Norton that everyone would support what he wanted. As a result, less than a month after Elizabeth first made her commitment to Norton, he was settled in his new home, happy, loved and appreciated.

Norton’s story perfectly illustrates the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, patron of animals, who said: “Where there is darkness, let me bring light, where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, harmony. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is sadness, joy...for it is in giving that we receive and it is in pardoning that we are pardoned.”

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animal passages

by Lisa Goldstein, DVM

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When people learn I’m a veterinarian, they often say, “I’ve always wanted to do that, but I could never put an animal to sleep.” Euthanasia is the most difficult part of my job, but sometimes it is the final act of compassion I can offer a grieving family whose animal is suffering. I felt ravaged after my first euthanasia, but learned to keep those emotions in a little corner of my heart. If I didn’t, the sadness would swallow me whole and I wouldn’t be able to practice veterinary medicine.

I certainly never allowed myself to think what would happen when I had to put one of my own animals to sleep.

Everyone has an animal that touches them more than any other. For me, it was a dog named Rembrandt, a golden retriever mix with big brown eyes. I rescued him when he was a year old from people who said he “didn’t know the value of a dollar”. In other words, he was a normal young dog that chewed, dug, and yearned for the attention he wasn’t getting. I rescued him only once, but he rescued me over and over with his unconditional love.

Remembering Rembrandt

After three months of training and love, Rembrandt’s destructive behavior stopped. He never growled or bared his teeth except when I was out jogging once and a man reached out to grab me. Rembrandt looked more ferocious than any police dog I’d ever seen, and showed teeth I didn’t even know he had. The man backed off and ran. I never saw those teeth again.

Rembrandt calmed me whenever I was stressed out. If I cried,

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Photo by: Lisa Goldstein, DVM

Rembrandt’s sun

he’d whine and push his big head into my hands until I stopped. He also became a therapy dog and went to nursing homes, hospitals and schools for handicapped children.

He’d lie on his side with his tail thumping while the children pet him and laughed and danced around him.

One day, a small boy fell out of his wheelchair and Rembrandt ran and stood by him until he was safely in his chair again.

I prided myself on the health of my dogs. I home cooked their food and gave them the best supplements. I didn’t overvaccinate and made sure we went for long walks every day. But one day, shortly before his eleventh birthday, I noticed Rembrandt’s left eye was a little red.

I used some drops and flushed it out, but after two days it was worse. I took him to a specialist, who prescribed stronger medicine. A few days later, his eye had cleared up and we went back for more tests.

I wasn’t prepared to hear that he had a tumor behind his cornea. I couldn’t bear to remove one of those beautiful eyes, but it had to come out. The veterinary ophthalmologist did the surgery, and I assisted. Rembrandt healed well, and was his usual happy self.

Ten days later, he was nudging his head into my lap while I cried, but this time he couldn’t stop my tears. I’d just found out the tumor was cancerous. Rembrandt had lymphosarcoma.

Then, without warning, he also developed a condition called megaesophagus, in which the tube leading into the stomach dilates and food can’t be digested, only regurgitated. He was hungry and wanted to eat, but could only retch up his food. I did everything I could think of, even making him special food and holding him on his hind legs for 15 minutes after he ate to help the food fall into his stomach. Finally, after he’d been on intravenous for a week and lost ten pounds, I knew I was losing the battle.

I brought home the drugs for euthanasia and waited three more days. I knew it was time when Rembrandt didn’t wag his tail, or even get up to see me when I came home. He lifted his head for a moment, then lowered it and sighed, as if to say, “I need

animal passages to go now. Please help me.” That night I slept on the floor with my arms around him.

The next morning, before the rest of the world was awake, I gave him the injection that would release him from his suffering. Even though I’d done this many times for other people, I wasn’t prepared for the despair I felt when my beautiful dog put his head in my lap and took his last breath.

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It was another year before I could part with Rembrandt’s ashes. I went to the Oregon coast and hiked up to a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean. The fog rolled in, turning the day gray and cold.

Releasing Rembrandt’s ashes seemed like losing him all over again, but I finally sprinkled a few towards the sea. A wind took them away, but something else happened. The sun broke through. When his ashes settled into the ocean, the fog enveloped me again. I sprinkled more ashes and the sun broke through a second time. My scientifically trained mind didn’t want to believe that my dog was speaking to me through the rays of the sun. But I repeated those steps four more times, and each time the sun would appear. When all the ashes were gone, there were no more sunny breaks.

I now believe it wasn’t just coincidence. Rembrandt was there that day. When the sun broke through each time I let a bit of him go, my beloved dog was thanking me for loving him, and for setting him free.

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Pass the grass!

I

“I’ll have the Triple Berry Blaster,” says Lee Gagnon to the teenager behind the counter, “with the wheatgrass booster.”

With all the juice bars out there these days, Lee and many others are learning about the benefits of “green foods”. Interestingly enough, we’re learning what our cats have known for centuries. Grass makes a great snack, and provides a number of healthful benefits. Though felines prefer theirs straight up as opposed to in a glass, some resourceful animals will do anything to satisfy their “green” cravings, including eating your unlucky houseplants – not a wise practice, since many plants are poisonous.

While cats are obligate carnivores, they intuitively eat grass to aid digestion, assist in removing fur balls, and increase roughage in their diets. As well, they benefit from the added vitamins and minerals, including folic acid (which cats can’t get from meat), vitamins A, B, C, E and K, calcium, chlorophyll and a range of other nutrients (see p. 71).

Unfortunately, lawn grass or exotic grasses, as some felines seem to crave, don’t tend to digest all that well, and you may find the residual effects of this snack on the floor of your home. The blades of these grasses are simply too coarse and sharp for the cat to digest easily, since his teeth are designed for ripping and tearing meat and not grinding up plant material.

Photo: Natalie Stephenson

It’s far better for your cat to “mow down” on the tender shoots of young wheat, oat or barley grasses, which are nutritionally superior to and far safer than lawn or indoor plants. Best of all, you can easily grow these grasses indoors in pans or bowls, so indoor

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It’s easy being green Sometimes referred to as “superfoods”, cereal grasses are as good for your kitty as they are for you.

Wheatgrass is an excellent source of vitamins C, E and K as well as the B vitamins. It also contains folic acid, calcium, iron, protein, fiber and chlorophyll, which is believed to help with cell regeneration. Wheat grass is also rich in enzymes and has alkaline properties that help neutralize acids and toxins. It can even boost immunity and cleanse the blood.

Barley grass shares the same health benefits as wheat grass and is especially rich in vitamin C and thiamin (vitamin B1).

Oat grass helps nourish and strengthen the nervous system and is a good source of vitamins A, B, C, E and K as well as calcium, chlorophyll, iron, lecithin, magnesium, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, potassium and amino acids.

cats and those who live in seasonal climates can enjoy the benefits all year long.

You can find many of these grasses at any good pet products store. The kits are self-explanatory and inexpensive, and include everything you’ll need to grow your “greens”. Alternatively, you can buy the seeds separately and, using organic soil, plant a do-it-yourself grass garden. Your cat will love you for it.

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book reviews Title: All By Myself – Taking Care of My Pet Young children love animals, but getting them to help look after them can sometimes be a challenge. New from All By Myself, a series of videos/ DVDs designed to help young children accept responsibility and take pride in their achievements, is Taking Care of My Pet. This award-winning, half-hour film is made for youngsters aged three to five and features Buddy the Ladybug and his new animal companion, Squeaky.

Through colorful animation and delightful clips of children interacting with their animals, from dogs and cats to goldfish and even a chameleon, the video explains the importance of exercise, food and water, veterinary care and lots of love to ensure that animals stay healthy and happy.

Taking Care of My Pet not only encourages children to treat animals like part of the family, but also motivates them to become loving and responsible caregivers. www.allbymyself.com

Title: Voice for a Choice Author: Bera Dordoni, ND Most of us agree that music can enhance well being. Naturopathic doctor Bera Dordoni, otherwise known as “The Singing Doctor,” is not only passionate about holistic health and animals, but is also a professional musician.

Her new CD, Voice for a Choice!, features a selection of inspirational songs in a variety of styles, from blues to jazz to gospel, all of which were written to encourage better health through informed choices and a loving outlook.

Two of the tracks are dedicated to animals: “All Who Enter Here Will Find Love” was written for the Watermelon Mountain Ranch, a no-kill sanctuary in New Mexico, while “Voices Calling You” was inspired by Dr. Dordoni’s 17-year-old bichon, who passed away a year ago. Voice for a Choice!, which has been nominated for seven Grammy Awards, makes inspiring listening for anyone who loves music and animals, and who is seeking ways to lead a more meaningful and compassionate life. www.singingdoctor.com

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animal wellness

Title: All My Relations Author: Susan Chernak McElroy “Mitaku Oyasin…is a Lakota phrase meaning ‘all my relations,’ or ‘all my relatives.’ It’s a way of honoring everything…it’s a prayer.” So writes Susan Chernak McElroy in her new book, All My Relations: Living with Animals as Teachers and Healers.

In this fascinating celebration of animals and their healing influence, the author presents ten moving stories about animals that have had a profound effect on her life. They include Misty, the tabby cat that taught McElroy important lessons about loss and power; Gaia, a mysterious spirit wolf who guided the author through her battle with cancer; and a tarantula that helped her overcome her terror of spiders.

Each story is followed by a reflection on what animals can teach us, along with exercises to help you explore and enhance your own relationships with animals, people and the natural world.

Both enjoyable and thought-provoking, All My Relations is a soul-enriching adventure into the world of human/ animal interaction.

animal

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animal wellness

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food, treats & supplements

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Lynn McKenzie

Animal Communication & Energy Healing Phone Consultations, Workshops, Teleclasses and After Death Readings

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health products

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MEMORY FOAM BEDS... comfort they deserve too!

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BURGESS VETERINARY MOBILE SERVICES Acupuncture • Animal Communication Flower Essences • Herbal Medicine • Reiki Lisa Burgess B.Sc., DVM Cert. Vet. Acupuncturist 905-379-3824

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Your #1 source for Soft Claws® and many other pet care items.

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animal wellness

“The Ultimate Harness”

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animal wellness

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miscellaneous

A MUSICAL GIFT FOR YOUR SENIOR PET! Relaxation Music for Dogs and Cats is designed for the pet’s specific acoustic needs. Loving music to comfort your mature dog or cat. It’s beautifully orchestrated melodies, are the composing signature of Janet Marlow.

For more information, visit:

www.musicfordogsandcats.com

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

February 26-27, 2005 – Larkspur, CO Animal Acupressure

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

A 1-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 a 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

Small Animal and Equine Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupressure. Hands-on and lecture make this 2-day course a wonderful learning experience.

Amy Snow 888-841-7211 acupressure4all@earthlink.net • www.animalacupressure.com

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

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

Lauren McCall 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

February 22- April 12, 2005 – Milwaukee, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Eight-weeks, 7-10pm.

AMTIL (Animal Massage & Therapies) 847-782-1963 amtil@amtil.com • amtil.com

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

March 17-20, 2005 – Larkspur, CO Animal Acupressure Meridians and Specific Conditions, 1 & 2. These 4 days of classes provide hands-on and lecture information about the meridian system of the equine and small animal. Meridians, acupoints and specifc conditions are taught in detail.

Nancy Zidonis 888-841-7211 acupressure4all@earthlink.net • www.animalacupresure.com

April 15-17, 2005 – Grafton, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • amtil.com

April 29-May 1, 2005 – West Chicago, IL Introduction to Small Animal Massage

This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner AMTIL (Animal Massage & Therapies) 847-782-1963 amtil@amtil.com • amtil.com

This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner AMTI L (Animal Massage & Therapies) 847-782-1963 amtil@amtil.com • amtil.com

April 1-3, 2005 – Rutherfordton, NC Introduction to Small Animal Massage

April 30, May 1, 2005 – Burks Falls, ON Animal Communication – Level 2

This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner.

The Whole You School of Massage 828-287-0067 institute@blueridge.net • amtil.com

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

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events animal wellness

This class is focused on learning techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner.

Linda J. Strewlow 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org • amtil.com

March 25-27, 2005 – West Chicago, IL Introduction to Small Animal Massage

Post your event online at: 80

April 8-10, 2005 – Grafton, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage

classifieds Animal Communicators

Animal Health

Health

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.

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

GOT GOJI? 2000 year old Himalayan health secret. World’s most powerful anti-aging food.

Biggest health breakthrough in 40 years. A proprietary 100% juice backed by research, money-back guarantee. Visit www.audreypeterson.freelife.com or call (651) 460-2838

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 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.

Wide variety of animal communication and Tellington TTouch classes throughout the US, Canada and Europe. www.aiaianimal.org, or call (510) 569-6123.

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. Available for phone/in-person consultations, workshops, lectures, distance healing, private coaching. Call (519) 570-9150 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.

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 INTUITIVE HEALTH CONSULTS – For pets and people too! I can tell you the underlying reasons for health and emotional problems, and which foods and supplements are exactly right for your pet or you. Energy remedies also available as needed. (610) 353-0122 or linda.y@verizon.net

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.

Business Opportunity PET E-BUSINESS FOR SALE. Buyer must be compassionate about welfare of animals. Very lucrative opportunity. Profit depends on time you can put into business. Serious inquiries please send email to petbiz@go347.us INCOME OPPORTUNITY – RESCUE GROUPS, VOLUNTEERS, AND PETSITTERS. Allows wholesale discount of needed air purifiers for pet odors, bacteria, virus control to help eliminate cross contamination between animals.

Profit $250 + per retail sale. For information call toll-free (888) 820-2363.

Gifts KRITTERS IN THE MAILBOX!!! – Find over 5,000 animal themed gift items at Kritters in the Mailbox! www.KritterGifts.com/aw

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 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 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 FELINE INSTINCTS™ – NATURAL NUTRITION CAT AND DOG FOOD COMPANY Where caring for the true carnivore is our specialty.

Dry supplement powders to mix with a raw meat base diet. www.felineinstincts.com email: catinstincts@aol.com Phone: (817) 496-4087

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.

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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: 1-609-927-5660 info@bihusa.com www.bihusa.com

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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.

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Where do dogs and cats come from?

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It is reported that the following edition of the Book of Genesis was discovered in the Dead Seal Scrolls. If authentic, it would shed light on the question, “Where do dogs and cats come from?”

you cannot see me. Regardless of how selfish and childish and unlovable you may be, this new companion will accept you as you are and will love you as I do, in spite of yourself.”

And Adam said, “Lord, when I was in the garden, you walked with me every day. Now I do not see you anymore.

I am lonesome here and it is difficult for me to remember how much you love me.”

And God created a new animal to be a companion for Adam.

And it was a good animal. And God was pleased.

And God said, “No problem! I will create a companion for you that will be with you forever and who will be a reflection of my love for you, so that you will know I love you, even when

And the new animal was pleased to be with Adam and he wagged his tail. And Adam said, “But Lord, I have already named all the animals in the Kingdom and all the good names are taken and I cannot think of a name for this new animal.”

And God said, “No problem! Because I have created this new animal to be a reflection of my love for you, his name will be a reflection of my own name, and you will call him DOG.” And Dog lived with Adam and was a companion to him and loved him. And Adam was comforted. And God was pleased.

And Dog was content and wagged his tail.

After awhile, it came to pass that Adam’s guardian angel came to the Lord and said, “Lord, Adam has become filled with pride. He struts and preens like a peacock and he believes he is worthy of adoration. Dog has indeed taught him that he is loved, but no one has taught him humility.”

And God said, “No problem! I will create for him a companion who will be with him forever and who will see him as he is. The companion will remind him of his limitations, so he will know that he is not always worthy of adoration.”

And God created CAT to be a companion to Adam. And Cat would not obey Adam. When Adam gazed into Cat’s eyes, he was reminded that he was not the supreme being. And Adam learned humility.

And God was pleased. And Adam was greatly improved.

And Cat did not care one way or the other.

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