V8I2 (Apr/May 2006)

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TOP 10 TIPS

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YES!

Your cat can learn too!

What supplements do they need & when?

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APR./MAY. 2006

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 2

Fatty Lipomas:

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allergies scaly skin

lethargy

GAS

bloating

excessive shedding

aching joints

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contents 22

40

Photo Š www.electric-voodoo.com

86

features 18 A look at lipomas

Understanding those lumps and bumps

22 Your cat & the stars What's your feline friend's astrological sign?

32 Top ten tips for

successful training A step-by-step guide to good behavior

36 It's true...you really can train your cat

Teaching kitty to do what you want

40 Visual cues are

key to training a deaf dog Hearing-impaired canines can be excellent learners

animal wellness

45 Making household cleaning animal-friendly

Switching to non-toxic products is good for both of you

50 Supplements for the seasons of their lives

Meeting your animal's changing needs

Š Gregory Colbert

64

Click on this icon to visit featured links

55 How to make

your walk the best it can be Here are our top "Dos" and "Don'ts"

58 Choosing the right veterinarian Advice from a vet

62 Upscale doggie

boutique caters to the humble mutt

64 Ashes and Snow

An artistic celebration of the human-animal bond

68 Enter our

Amazing Animals Photo Contest!

70 Toxoplasmosis

How to protect yourself and your feline friend

80 Much ado about Lyme disease

Prevention is the best cure

Send us your best shots and you could win!

Treat your canine to a Beverly Hills lifestyle

ONTARIO REGIONAL SECTION

ATLANTA

REGIONAL SECTION

animal wellness

contents columns 12 Yakkity yak 26 Dr. Martin Goldstein 78 Animal passages

Volume 8

Editorial Department

86 Animal

Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Southern Ontario Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Atlanta Regional Editor: Nannette Ferrell Senior Graphic Designer: Yvonne Hollandy Graphic Designer: Stephanie Wright Photography: Chris Johnson Illustration: Stephanie Wright

communication

90 Book reviews 106 The tail end

Columnists & Contributing Writers Teresa Banks Michelle Bernard Celina Bojorquez Audi Donamor Shannon Fujimoto Nakaya, DVM Martin Goldstein, DVM Jon Krafchek Andy Lopez Shawn Messonnier, DVM Paul Owens Catherine Owsianiecki Ana Ruiz

departments 8 Editorial

92 Ad spots

10 Pony express

102 Events calendar

31 Product picks

103 Classifieds 104 Quick reference

73 Wellness

resource guide

84 What’s gnu?

Issue 2

Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager Lesia Wright Information Services Director Vaughan King Business Development Manager Samantha Saxena Administrative Assistant Joanne Rockwood 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.

guide to our advertisers

National Sales Manager: Lesley Nicholson (866) 764-1212 lesley@animalwellnessmagazine.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr (213) 793-1867 becky@animalwellnessmagazine.com Canadian Regional Manager: Anne Gibson (866) 464-5214 or (416) 504-4310 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com Northern California Representative: Suzanne Pieper (707) 331-0356 suzanne@animalwellnessmagazine.com Georgia Regional Manager: Nannette Ferrel (770) 374-3966 nannette@animalwellnessmagazine.com Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2006. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher.

Publication date: March, 2006

To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue in the U.S. $19.95 and Canada is

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Photo: Chris Johnson

Our Cover: Parker, a two-and-a-halfyear-old Collie cross, brings joy and happiness to the lives of Loraine Vadasz and her husband Ian, who is now in a wheelchair.

According to photographer and friend, Chris Johnson, this playful and loving unofficial "therapy dog" has made a noticeable difference to Ian's health.

$24.95 including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail.

Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 US Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 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. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products or services advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

Dealer Inquiries Welcome: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale

in retail shops and through various organizations. Call 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.

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EDITORIAL Do unto others...

Many years ago, family friends welcomed a wonderful bull terrier puppy into their home. He was a friendly and exuberant little guy, and everyone who met him loved him. I remember marveling at his strong and muscular frame. Petting him was like tapping a hard, wooden table. As he got a little older, his guardians opted to send him for training, a wise move since a badly behaved bull terrier can wreak havoc on a household.

Unfortunately, the trust this family put in their trainer was misplaced. The trainer used harsh methods and, during one session, dropped the dog. The dog broke his leg and more importantly, lost his trust of humans.

His behavior became unpredictable and aggressive and his guardians eventually made the grueling decision to have him euthanized.

It’s a sad fact that most dogs and cats end up at rescues and shelters because of behavioral problems.

Problems that, in all likelihood, could have been prevented or remedied with the right resources.

When I think about training, I’m reminded of a phrase my parents repeated many times as I was growing up: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” If you want to be treated respectfully, it only makes sense that you must treat your animals with respect. Screaming, hitting and rubbing noses in doo-doo will only foster fear and anxiety. But as I learned from our adopted huskies (who came with their own set of stubborn behaviors), trust, planning and patience really do work and make everyone feel good.

In this issue, Paul Owens shares his top training tips and I encourage you to review and share them with others.

His common sense approach will have you hitting your forehead and muttering “Of course!” If you have a cat, you’ll enjoy our interview with celebrity trainer Bash Dibra on training felines (yes, it can be done!)

As always, this issue is chock full of other important information, such as how to choose the right supplements for your animals as they go from puppies and kittens to seniors, finding the veterinarian that’s right for you and your animals, what to do about fatty lipomas (which are so common among older dogs), animal-friendly household cleaning, and so much more.

We’re also winding up our Amazing Animals photo contest this issue (see page 68) so please get your photos in before our deadline of April 14. We’ve got some great prizes in store for you, and many of our contest entries wind up in the pages of Animal Wellness.

Happy spring to all!

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animal wellness

pony express dear animal wellness magazine . . .

I just want to remind your readers that pets with allergies can be allergic to vegetables too (Feb-Mar 2006). A spot test can weed out the problems foods. My basset hound is allergic to carrots and flax seed and brewer’s yeast. All of these are commonly found even in low allergy foods and supplements. Please take the time and spend the money to get a really good test run if you have a pet with allergies. We also found out our girl would be allergic to penicillin and that knowledge could save her life if she got hurt or sick and need an antibiotic. I’m all for natural as I’m a Reiki master, but allopathic tests can save your pet’s life if they suffer from severe allergies.

Penny Leisch, via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Good point. Allergies are common among our companion animals, so it’s always wise to seek veterinary guidance when making dietary changes of any kind.

Your article on selected protein for dogs by their ancestry is physiologically and biologically wrong (Feb-Mar 2006). What foods an animal requires takes hundreds of thousands of years to change, and a few hundred years of a diet given due to location is not going to change genetic digestion process in a dog.

Trying to convince people to feed one or two types of protein due to the dog’s ancestry is not a true case of anatomy or physiology of the dog. If you use logic, the same is true

for humans. Many groups of humans have survived on certain available foods due to their location (some better than others) but all humans have basic nutritional needs and can use a wider swath of foods. Same goes for dogs. Simply because dogs were subjected to fewer choices given their locale does not mean they are limited to those choices, or even that these are the best choices.

Lew Olson, via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Feeding a variety of proteins is, of course, important. While the breedspecific proteins mentioned in the article can be especially beneficial to the dogs in question, this doesn’t mean the diet needs to be limited solely to these proteins. As you suggest, other factors besides native locale must be taken into account when choosing a protein source for a particular breed of dog.

Kate Solisti comments in her article, “Keep in mind that besides your dog’s breed, you must also take into consideration his individual lifestyle, age, and health needs.”

It’s great that schools are getting grants to help with shelter medicine (“Yakkity Yak,” FebMar 2006). I have a B.S. in Animal Sciences from the University of Tennessee and have been around animals of all kinds for years.

I have instituted protocols for animals that enter our shelter and have a local vet clinic as a companion in saving dogs and cats. We are

fortunate that our city supports our efforts, unlike some areas that put animal shelters/ rescues at the bottom of the budget list.

I have been able to attain a 90% adoption and owner reclaim rate, and in the past three years have only seen three cases of parvo, which is practically unheard of in public shelters. Upper respiratory problems appear occasionally and with quick action we treat successfully. I believe the biggest reason for success is the cleaning standards that I expect the staff to follow and we receive many compliments, locally and as far away as Massachusetts. Sanitation of shelters should be a required course for those interested in animal health. We are installing UV systems in our heating and cooling systems to help improve air quality and decrease possible air born infections.

Butch Lulloff, Animal Shelter Supervisor, via e-mail

Editor’s Note: Congratulations on your high adoption rate, and on the other steps you are taking to ensure the animals in your care are as healthy and comfortable as possible!

Happily, more and more communities, shelters, vets and others are recognizing the importance of a no-kill society and are finding ways to work towards that goal.

we want to hear from you!

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

PMB 168 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122

164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 can:

or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

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Be like my dog It seems our pooches set the standards for what we want to see in our partners. According to a recent AKC survey, nearly 90% of women and 3 3 % of men find at least one quality in their dog that they’d like to see in their significant other.

Canine qualities women look for in men: • Perennial good mood • Always willing to spend time with you • Always up for cuddling on the couch • Motivates you to exercise • Eagerness to eat your cooking

Get the picture?

They say a picture’s worth a thousand words. In the case of the National Dog Day Foundation, it translates to helping as many dogs as possible. The Foundation is aiming to save 1 0,000 homeless dogs with its new Internet campaign, TenThousandPixelPuppies.com.

The website displays a collage of 10,000 dog faces featuring the work of artists and photographers from across the country.

Each image represents an ad space. Companies and individuals are invited to buy up the spaces; once they’re all sold, the dog faces will be replaced with company logos. All proceeds go to the National Dog Day Foundation, which is sponsoring the First Annual National Dog Day on August 26 of this year. www.TenThousandPixelPuppies.com.

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animal wellness

Photo: Katrina Leandro

Canine qualities men look for in women: • Just as happy to hang at home as go out on the town • Always greeting me enthusiastically when I get home • Doesn’t get mad when I want to watch sports • Being up for anything I want to do

Name that animal!

What’s your best friend’s name? Veterinary Pet Insurance has released a list of the most popular dog and cat names for 2005, based on the company’s policyholders. Is your best buddy in the top ten?

Max Baily Buddy Molly Maggie Lucy Daisy Bella Jake Rocky

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Max Tigger Smokey Tiger Chloe Shadow Lucy Angel Oliver Simba

Toxic food recall This past January, Diamond Pet Foods recalled nearly 20 varieties of its product after more than 7 5 dogs became ill and died after eating them. The FDA is still conducting investigations, but it’s believed the food was contaminated with aflatoxin, a naturally occurring chemical found in a fungus that grows on corn and other grains, and which can cause severe liver damage if ingested.

The recall encompassed products manufactured in the company’s South Carolina plant between September and November of last year, with “best before” dates of March 1, 2007 through June 11, 2007.

Diamond Pet Foods has promised to reimburse its customers for vet bills incurred by the contamination. animal wellness

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Yakkity Yak Mellow out with Rover If you’ve ever tried yoga, you know the relaxing benefits this form of exercise can bring. Now you and canine companion can tread the path of enlightenment together, thanks to dog trainer and yoga instructor Kari Harendorf and her five-year-old husky mix, Charlie. They’re the hosts of K9 Karma, a new TV show airing on Animal Planet. Not only will you learn yoga moves that you and your dog can do together, but you’ll also discover how to bring more positive energy into your lives as you watch Kari and Charlie visit nursing homes, shop at pet boutiques, and enjoy quality time together. K9 Karma airs weekday mornings at 11:30 ET.

Kari and Charlie of K9 Karma demonstrate the split.

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animal wellness

Who has the healthiest environment?

In New Zealand, people and animals alike can breathe a sigh of relief after a recent study showed their country’s environment to be the healthiest in the world. The Pilot 2006 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) rates more than 1 3 0 countries on their performance and commitment to Environmental Health, Air Quality, Water Resources, Biodiversity and Habitat, Productive Natural Resources, and Sustainable Energy. Indicators within these categories include indoor air pollution, water issues, urban particulates, overfishing and CO2 production. Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom are the next four countries on the list, with Canada ranking eighth, and the U.S. coming in at number 28.

Photo courtesy AKC

Labs top the list According to the American Kennel Club’s 2005 registration statistics, the Labrador retriever is the most popular dog breed in the U.S., and has been for the past 1 6 years.

Here’s the complete list: 1. Labrador retriever 2. Golden retriever 3. Yorkshire terrier 4. German shepherd 5. Beagle 6. Dachshund 7. Boxer 8. Poodle 9. Shih tzu 10. Miniature schnauzer Although Alaskan malamutes aren’t on the list, they may gain in popularity following the results of the AKC National Championship in Costello shows off his ribbon.

January, when a malamute named Costello won first place for Best in Show. Crowned the nation’s top dog at the two-day competition in Tampa, Florida, Costello’s prize winnings totaled $80,000.

Yakkity Yak Sustainable seafood Many people love shrimp and other seafood, but are concerned about the environmental consequences of consuming these ocean delicacies. Now there’s a way you can have the best of both worlds. A company called Brave New Seafood has recently announced the introduction of a shrimp product that’s farm-raised using only sustainable, environmentally friendly methods that don’t contribute to the problems of overfishing and wasteful by-catch. Brave New Shrimp also contains no antibiotics, hormones, chemicals or additives, making it healthy as well as easy on the earth. It’s available at www.wellnessgrocer.com.

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Yakkity Yak The genetic connection

16

animal wellness

Photo courtesy of The Broad Institute

Dogs are our best friends in more ways than one, according to the results of a new scientific study that has deciphered the genetic makeup of the domestic canine. By taking DNA samples from a boxer named Tasha, researchers have been able to identify genes that make dogs vulnerable to a variety of health problems they share with humans, including cancer, heart disease and diabetes. It’s a breakthrough that will not only aid veterinary researchers in better understanding and treating canine diseases, but will also help identify the genetic factors that Tasha's DNA will help researchers better understand canine diseases. influence human health.

On the wagon One of the many issues shelters face on a daily basis is animal overpopulation. PetSmart Charities is working to help alleviate the problem with its Rescue Waggin’ Transport Program. Launched in the Midwest during 2005, the program has now been expanded to California. It works to save dogs by safely and humanely transporting them from overcrowded shelters to partner shelters in need of more adoptable animals. The program also funds corresponding spay/neuter and capacity-building grants for partner agencies.

Only available in Canada

604-273-8577

animal wellness

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A look at

lipomas

by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

a

As animals age, it’s very common for them to develop various lumps and bumps. In most cases, these are benign (not cancerous) nodules that will never cause any problem. In other cases, what seems to be simply an innocuous problem might in fact be cancer. It’s important for you to know the difference, as treatment recommendations will vary.

What are lipomas and what causes them?

Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) fatty tumors, and the most common soft skin tumor in dogs. They are usually soft when palpated (touched and handled), although some (especially the larger masses) can feel firm when handled.

While lipomas occur in any age or breed of dog or cat, they are most commonly seen in older dogs. Some breeds, such as Weimaraners, seem particularly predisposed to developing many lipomas all over their bodies.

It isn’t known what causes these fatty tumors, although many animals with lipomas are overweight. In some, weight loss may shrink the tumors or even cause them to disappear. Since some overweight animals have hypothyroidism

Four keys to dealing with lipomas 1. All lumps and bumps must be diagnosed properly, usually through aspiration cytology.

2. Most fatty tumors are benign and do not need to be removed.

3. When possible, working with a holistic vet who can prescribe herbs or homeopathics may shrink some of these tumors.

4. If any lump or bump cannot be diagnosed by an aspirate, or grows or changes in appearance or color, get it removed as soon as possible and have it biopsied to allow the correct diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.

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animal wellness

(low thyroid) I do a blood test in all my obese patients.

Diagnosis is important It is crucial to find out if the lump really is a benign fatty tumor or something more serious. A diagnosis is important so the doctor can give you the correct treatment recommendation as well as the proper prognosis.

Keep in mind that no one can simply feel or look at a lump on your animal’s body and correctly diagnosis it. While most lumps are benign, there are many exceptions. For example, mast cell tumors are known as “the great imitators” because they mimic lipomas and other benign lesions. Mast cell cancer can be cured when diagnosed and treated early, but because the tumors resemble other benign skin lesions, they are frequently not diagnosed until the disease is more advanced, which often means a worse prognosis for the animal. This is why it’s essential that all lumps and bumps, regardless of their “benign” appearance, be properly evaluated in order to get the correct diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.

How are these lumps accurately diagnosed?

A very simple test called aspiration cytology can be quickly and easily performed in the vet’s office. Briefly, the procedure involves inserting a tiny needle into the lump. A syringe attached to the needle is used to aspirate (suck out) cells and fluid from the lump. This aspirate is then treated with a microbiological stain and examined under the microscope. The doctor can then easily tell if the lump is a fatty tumor or something potentially more serious.

To operate or not to operate In most cases, I don’t recommend surgery for lipomas. Unless we’re dealing with a pretty big tumor, or one that bothers the

Other vet recommendations for lipomas: Dr. Martin Goldstein, of Smith Ridge Veterinary Center in South Salem, New York says “Use Chinese herb formula Chih-ku & Curcuma (Seven Forests) for three weeks, stop for five to seven days, then continue again. Vitamin B6 (50 mg) and Magnesium (50 mg) also assist in fat metabolism. I would also recommend Lipo-Complex. I would do surgery on a lipoma only if it were really indicated eg. interfering with circulation.”

Dr. Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND of North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service in Ontario says, “Lipomas are stagnation of course -- accumulation of toxins in a 'safe' place for the organism.

I would not recommend surgical removal unless the size of the lipoma is a problem because for example it impairs normal walking, sitting, lying or it ulcerates again because it’s so big.

“A safe and easy way to detoxify is with the HEEL detox kit: (Nux vomica homaccord, Berberis homaccord and Lyphosot) -- three to eight drops of each three times daily 'on' food or in water for three weeks, stop for one week and repeat. Manual lymphatic drainage may be useful but requires some knowledge of the lymphatic flow in the area of the lipoma.”

animal, I don’t see any reason for people to spend money and subject their animals to an operation that won’t improve their life. Remember that these lumps are not cancerous and will usually not grow or ever cause the animal a problem. If the guardian wants to try to shrink the tumor or tumors, I will recommend a weight loss diet (for overweight animals), thyroid supplementation (for animals that are hypothyroid), or herbs. In my practice, I have an herbal pharmacist make a special herbal formula that can, in some instances, shrink the tumors or make them go away.

If the tumors do not respond after one to two months of herbal therapy, then this treatment won’t work in this case and I stop the therapy.

• If the aspirate shows something other than a lipoma, I’ll remove it, get a biopsy, and then plan my treatment accordingly.

Occasionally these benign fatty tumors grow quite large and surgery is not an option. One of my clients has an old dog with a large, basketball-sized mass on the side of his abdomen. It doesn’t bother the dog, nor will it ever grow “inside” the dog or press on abdominal

BACON OR APPLE FLAVOR!

In some instances, surgery is recommended.

• If a lipoma starts growing, I like to remove it. It’s much easier to remove a small tumor than a large one, so the sooner I get it off of the animal the better.

• I will also remove the tumor if it interferes with patient function, for example if the tumor is on the abdomen and the animal experiences discomfort trying to lie down.

For another Healthy Pet Systems success story, turn to page 54...

Healthy Pet Systems 1-877-838-7015 www.vithealth.com animal wellness

19

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Inspired by Maggie – Designed by Nancy

organs (these fatty tumors are usually masses that occur under the skin). Because of the size of this mass, the age of the dog, the fact that the mass doesn’t bother him, and the need for major reconstructive surgery if we attempt to remove the mass, the guardian and I elected not to do anything for this mass (prior use of herbs to shrink the tumor did not work).

Most lipomas are not a cause for concern. Once your vet has determined for certain that your animal’s lumps and bumps aren’t anything serious, and steps have been taken to minimize their growth, your dog or cat can continue living a normal, healthy life.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, and the awardwinning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, A great range of products online from the delightful Sleep-N-Store Pet Bed to the Essential Harness Play Pack visit us today at:

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as well as the pet care expert for

Martha Stewart Living’s program, The Natural Vet, on Sirius Satellite Radio.

His veterinary practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, is located in Plano, Texas. www.petcarenaturally.com

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Photo © www.electric-voodoo.com

Your

cat & the stars

j

by Ana Ruiz

Just like people, cats have very different personalities.

Some are shy and retiring, while others are fearless and adventurous. They may be loners, or prefer lots of attention and petting. Many of these differences can be attributed to genetics, background and other factors, but it’s also entertaining to consider how your cat’s astrological sign might influence her personality and behavior. Take a look at the profiles below, and see if your own feline friend matches up to her sun sign!

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animal wellness

Aries (March 21 - April 20) • This cat can be impatient, highly energetic and daring.

• Won't back down from a provoked fight.

• Can be somewhat selfish, competitive, highly independent, destructive, self-absorbed and slightly domineering.

• Is loyal, inquisitive, persistent, impulsive, impatient and self-confident.

• Aries cats move fast; when new situations arise, they’re first on the scene.

• A reckless and adventurous nature combined with a need for attention can often get this cat into trouble.

• Temper is short but not long-lived.

• Always looking for new diversions.

• Constantly on the go, conquering and defending his possessions and property.

Taurus (April 21 - May 21) • This feline can be gentle, stubborn, patient and somewhat predictable.

• Loves comfort, routine and home, and doesn’t handle excitement, change or the unpredictable particularly well.

• Meals must be served at the same time every day.

• Loves fine foods, which creates a tendency towards plumpness.

• This easygoing cat isn't as playful as others and stays out of trouble.

• A small family or single guardian is best for this faithful and protective feline.

• The English saying, "In a cat's eye, all things belong to cats" is best applied to the possessive Taurean cat.

• Kittens born under this sign must be trained early as their stubbornness can hinder adaptability later in life.

• Slow to anger but does possess a temper.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21) • Fun loving, intelligent, playful and mischievous.

• The most active and curious of all cats.

• May have a short attention span, thanks to a changeable and inquisitive nature combined with a “multiple personality” character.

• Often expresses herself vocally and may purr quite loudly.

• A sociable cat, the Gemini enjoys the company, love and attention of large families.

• Due to her highly active nature, she tends to need less sleep than average.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) • One of the most affectionate, devoted and territorial cats.

• Prefers staying indoors where it is safe, comfortable and secure.

• Has a healthy appetite, but stomach disorders can easily arise as a result of hypersensitivity and stressful situations.

• Protective, sensitive and emotional.

• The least reckless and destructive, the Cancer cat makes a good and faithful companion, and is less likely to stray from home.

• Fond of his family and enjoys being around children.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) • This cat is the most playful and outgoing of all.

• Often expresses affection and loves being the center of attention • This cat is loyal and brave, but can be domineering and animal wellness

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isn’t particularly fond of sharing.

• Loves to sleep or bask in the sunlight, and enjoys being groomed and pampered.

• Strangers are often greeted with trusting affection.

• A Leo can be never be “owned”; rather she is your master!

• Dignified and proud, she doesn't enjoy being laughed at.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept.22) • A fussy, even shy cat who prefers to spend most of her time in quiet solitude.

• Particularly neat, clean and hygienic; much time is spent washing.

• Her litter box must be kept tidy and spotless and meals should be served at the same time each day.

• Powers of observation are well developed; it may often seem you are being analyzed by the stare of a Virgo cat!

• Not overly spontaneous, she doesn't immediately warm up to others and tends to be a loner.

• Her high intelligence enables her to avoid perilous situations.

• Virgo cats are easily trained as they respond well to routine.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct.22) • It was once said: "A cat is never vulgar." This best applies to the graceful and elegant Libran feline.

• Sociable, tolerant, gentle, affectionate and disciplined, but may be prone to indecision.

• Prefers being in the company of others and is quite comfortable with a large family.

• Arguments, loud noise and disharmony are not well handled.

• Loves peace and luxury but is somewhat lazy as well.

• Enjoys being fussed over, groomed and pampered.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) • May play rough due to her physical strength and strong will.

• Can be possessive, headstrong, jealous and sneaky but is also loving, devoted and protective.

• The “loners” of the Zodiac, the Scorpio cat possesses an added essence of mystery.

• Won't back down from a fight nor hesitate to put hunting skills to use.

• Enjoys investigating anything that intrigues him.

• Sensitive in nature, he is deeply hurt by reprimands.

• Has a well pronounced level of energy, persistence and concentration.

• Has the uncanny ability to hide in places one would never think to look.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) • This cat is most playful, and enjoys taking risky chances.

• Has a highly optimistic, explorative and inquisitive nature.

• Often seeks adventure, particularly outdoors.

• Friendly, but has a strong need to wander and gets very restless when cooped

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up in the house for too long.

• Has an energetic disposition and needs little rest.

• Adjusts well to a foreign or different environment.

• Often enjoys games, particularly the chase.

• An outgoing cat who enjoys meeting and being around people who are equally outgoing.

• The saying "A cat has nine lives," best applies to the lucky and active Sagittarian cat.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) • A possessive, quiet, moody and persistent cat.

• Has a tendency to be withdrawn, and prefers the company of older individuals.

• Likes to spend a lot of time alone, due to a shy and reclusive nature.

• Does not warm up to others immediately.

• Needs less attention and fuss than other cats.

• Drafts should be avoided, as she will likely be sensitive to cold.

• Patient and headstrong and will wait endlessly for a desired outcome.

• Avoids risks and danger.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 19) • Unpredictable, nervous, active, curious and most playful.

• Often possesses an unusual quality in behavior, a habit or an imaginative trick.

• Is most friendly, yet independent; he can often seem aloof due to a temperamental nature.

• Greatly enjoys “people watching” as well as being outdoors in the fresh air.

• Gets along very well with human, but doesn't react well to meeting strangers, particularly in his own home.

Pisces (Feb. 20 - March 20) • This cat isn't active and enjoys lazing around in quiet and peaceful surroundings.

• The Piscean cat is highly sensitive, loving, gentle, shy and doesn't react well to stressful situations.

• Loves to be pampered and is often found snuggling by people's feet.

• Enjoys fish and seafood most of all.

• The receptive nature of this sign enables her to be easily influenced or affected by people's moods.

• The English saying, "The cat sees through shut lids," is most apt for a Piscean cat, who seems to intuitively know what one is thinking and feeling.

Ana Ruiz

is a cat lover, author, dance teacher,

and astrologer.

Astrologers,

As

a member of the

Egyptologist American Federation of

she also contributes a monthly sun sign

column to their web site at www.astrologers.com.

You

can

visit her own site at www.netaxis.ca/people/ana.ruiz.

animal wellness

25

holistic veterinary advice

talking with dr. martin goldstein Dr. Marty Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for more than 25 years. Based at Smith Ridge Veterinary Center in South Salem, New York, Dr. Goldstein is the author of The Nature of Animal Healing, published by Random House.

Send your

Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, Dr. Marty responds to questions in only. We regret he cannot respond to every question.

questions for

e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com his column

Q

Rain, our two-year old cat, was neutered approximately one year ago. He came out of the surgery completely blind, something to do with his liver and the anesthesia (or anybody’s guess). As of six months ago, he supposedly could “see” shadows. Is there anything I can treat him with to “reverse” the damage, or don’t you think there is any hope for him to ever regain his sight?

A

Our viewpoint is that there is hope for almost every case we work with. This is not a false hope, but from what we have seen over the last three decades, more of a positive attitude infused with hope. In Oriental philosophy and medicine, there is a strong correlation between the liver and the eyes. Supporting the liver as well as the eyes would be beneficial. I would recommend any of the many liver glandular supplements on the market, a vitamin A supplement (like fish liver oil), and milk thistle. For the eye, I suggest Visioplex

by Progressive Labs (which contains vitamin A), and Oculotrophin by Standard Process Labs.

Q

After much research and seeing four veterinarians, my three-year-old Australian shepherd female has been diagnosed with Mouth Chewer’s Syndrome, and is re-injuring her frenulum. She is scheduled to have surgery by a very qualified veterinary dentist (in MI). In the meantime, she has been on two courses of antibiotics to try and remedy the wounds in her mouth. After the first episode, she got stubborn yeast infections in both ears and now her vulva-vaginal area. The new vet dentist gave us Animax for the ears, mineral oil, and what human ladies use for yeast infections (he mixes this up himself).

He reswabbed her ears and they are sterile.

She still has the yeast infection down below, and he wants to reswab her when she comes in for surgery. My question is (keeping in mind she is going to have laser surgery on her frenulum, and probably will be put back on antibiotics) what probiotics do you recommend that I add to her diet? Can one give something vaginally as well? I would also like to add vitamin C to her diet. Should we use ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, or the esterfied vitamin C?

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animal wellness

A

The probiotic I prefer over all others on the market are those composed of soil organisms. Initially, I started using Primal Defense by Garden of Life.

While others are now becoming available, it is the original and the one I still prefer. As far as topical treatments for yeast go, a product named Malaseb might help; consult with your veterinarian. The true way to know which vitamin C to chose would be determined by blood results and by looking at the enzymes that reference acid and base balance.

Q

I have a nine-year-old black Lab who has been having problems with hair loss and itching for over a year. Some of the hair loss was attributed to a thyroid condition and she is on medication for that. However, it has been touch and go; the hair loss is now back and the itching has been fairly constant. I have been to two vets (three if you count the thyroid doctor). Nobody seems to be able to get to the bottom of this problem. The groomer swears it is mange, but none of my other dogs have it, and she has been scraped at least two times and undergone two treatments with Mitoban.

She has undergone allergy testing and is receiving shots for known allergens. She is currently on skin vitamins and herbs as recommended by the holistic vet.

When I read about selenium sulfide prescription lotion in your response to a previous letter about a similar case (Oct-Nov 2005), I felt a ray of hope. My vets have not heard of it – where can I get it and are there any side effects? I feel my dog’s immune system is compromised either from the on-going problem or the treatments meant to cure it. She gets ear infections and skin infections and just finished more antibiotics. The doctor wants to give her cortisone shots which I resist because she seems so medicated.

A

The mange that responds to selenium sulfide does cause itching, and is contagious but not typically localized. The mange that typically causes hair loss around the eyes, demodex, usually does not cause itching (unless it is secondary), is not contagious and does not respond to this lotion. Selenium sulfide is easily obtainable by prescription through most pharmacies.

holistic veterinary advice The only rare side effect I’ve seen is for it to be slightly irritating and to temporarily turn white fur pinkish orange. My guess is that your dog has allergies.

Q

I provide foster care for a couple of local feline rescue groups. I trapped a foster kitten of about nine weeks of age. We tested him for FIP and he was positive. Needless to say it was shortly after that we had to make the difficult decision to put him down as he got very sick very fast. He had been with us for about six months.

What are the chances that he would have passed FIP onto my cats? They were not exposed to each other a lot but there was some sharing of food dishes and litter boxes and some playing together. My cats seem to be normal and healthy. Should I test them for FIP now or is it better to wait a certain amount of time?

A

My experience of FIP (which is limited and mostly from years ago) is that it is highly contagious and much more common in very young cats than mature ones. Years ago, a very good client had many exotic cats. She brought in an Abyssinian kitten that shortly afterwards died of FIP. In a state of fear, she had me test a number of her adult cats. All the test results came back significantly positive (in those days, this was the general corona virus family and, although not definitive for FIP, with the history these results were very presumptive for FIP). I worked with her to get her to see that these results merely indicated that the adult cats had all built strong immunities to this viral family. They all lived normal lives.

DE W ALE AN R TE S D!

Q

We have an Australian shepherd – six years old with blue eyes – who has been diagnosed with scleritis. She is under the care of a veterinary ophthalmologist. He feels we are losing the battle and that she will eventually go blind. Is there any food you could recommend which would help her keep her eyesight longer?

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A

I wouldn’t suggest a specific food as much as nutraceuticals and remedies. Although there are, I’m sure, many on the market, the ones I have used are Visioplex by Progressive Labs and Oculotrophin by Standard Process Labs. Homeopathically, I have used BHI’s (Heel) combination of Eye and Inflammation remedies. For herbal support, the Visioplex does contain some in its formulation. Otherwise, I would recommend doing either a bit of research or consulting a veterinarian experienced in this field. Similasan #1 homeopathic drops used topically might provide some more support.

Q

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27

holistic veterinary advice

His fresh breath means he is ready to party!

and salmon oil to her food. I also give her glucosamine and condroitin tablets. Glucosamine and chondroitin seem to be everywhere, in food, treats, etc. How much is enough? Can they be toxic in any way? What else can I do to make her comfortable? My vet wants her on Rimadyl but I refused.

A

For the proper dosing of glucosamine/chondroitin, you should get one of the more accepted and known brands, such as Cosequin by Nutramax, and follow the recommendations by weight on the label. I also like Glycoflex (especially formula #3); one of the many homeopathic combinations, especially containing rhus tox; and herbally, one of many indicated for arthritis containing especially yucca, alfalfa and devil’s claw. You can also consider getting her on foods that are whole and unprocessed and contain no or minimal processed carbohydrates.

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Q

My one-year-old Maltese has chronic crying eyes. He constantly wipes at his eyes with his paw and has stained his white face a rusty color. His former family was feeding him Pedigree and Science Diet kibble combination. When I got him just over two weeks ago, I switched his food to Innova Evo kibble with Merrick wet food combination. He no longer chews at his paws, just licks them now and again. However, the eye tearing has not diminished. Should I continue on the path I’m taking and just wait it out for better results? Or is there an alternative in diet and supplements that would make him more comfortable during this transition?

A

You are on the right path and it may be only a matter of time for your Maltese’s condition to improve or even remedy. Adding digestive enzymes and a good multivitamin/mineral supplement could help. Topically, Similasan #1 eye drops may help if there is any local inflammation. Sometimes, this condition can be associated with blocked tear ducts. This would have to be diagnosed and treated by an experienced veterinarian.

Q

Ziggy, my 13-year-old Tibetan terrier, recovered from coonhound paralysis two years ago. Since that time he has had various ailments including arthritis and diarrhea.

He also has a history of skin allergies, gagging cough and fatty tumors. Blood work has indicated an increased white blood cell count. After a bone marrow test it was determined that he has elevated lymphocytes, but normal bone marrow and no sign of cancer. X-rays have revealed an enlarged spleen. He is also on thyroid medication. I give him glucosamine for his arthritis and geriatric vitamins for general health. Recently a friend mentioned that she gave colostrum to her dog, who was diagnosed with cancer and sent home to die. She saw immediate improvement and two years later her dog is cancer-free. I’ve read reports

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holistic veterinary advice that colostrum is an immune booster and was wondering if it would be indicated for treating Ziggy.

A

I don’t really like advising on older patients with multiple, deep seated conditions via magazine column.

Having said that, I do like and use colostrums, but more for intestinal than immune problems as I feel there are many other products available with greater anti-cancer and immune supportive effects. I am not adverse to you using it with Ziggy. One word of caution: many times over the years, I have seen something work almost miraculously on a patient and you think you’ve found “the cure for cancer”. Then, the next dozen animals you use it with, you get no response.

Q Animal Wellness 3 1/2" X 4 3/4" Contact: Linda Pilling 520-886-8548 Ext. 102

My cat Lucky is suffering terribly from allergies. She is three years old but looks as frail and tiny as a three-month-old.

She’s scratched most of her face into permanent, oozing ridges, and has pulled out most of her fur. She continually scratches until she screams in pain, and then rubs and pulls compulsively and feverishly. Her eyes are usually closed and her ears are continually filled with black stuff.

My husband and I have tried everything. We’ve taken her to every vet and “specialist” in the Long Island and NYC area, tried allergy tests, different diets, medications, steroids, pills, even Prozac. Nothing has helped. She is constantly giving herself eye infections and getting ear infections from rubbing and spreading the bacteria. In addition, because we have to constantly give her eye and ear ointments, drops and pills, she has become terrified of medication. We are at a loss.

A

Again, I hesitate to treat cases of this severity or non-responsiveness by column. Our practice, the Smith Ridge Vet Center, is in the Long Island, NYC area, and we specialize in these types of cases, so we’re not far from your locale. What we would do is analyze Lucky metabolically with subsequent specific nutraceuticals, and initially use injectable homeopathics and non-drug anti-inflammatory injectables.

We would also prescribe oral homeopathics such as BHI Allergy, privately labeled herbals we call Allergy Formula (containing nettles and echinacea), or a Chinese herbal called Kai Yeung and the beta sitoserol supplement Betathyme.

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.

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.

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animal wellness

awm Product Picks The whole picture

On the prowl

Imagine opening a can of dog food and finding a complete chicken dinner inside. Among its lines of premium foods, Evanger’s includes Hand-Packed Specialties featuring fresh, whole, natural ingredients.

Selections include a Roasted Chicken Drummette Dinner, complete with whole chicken drummets (bones are soft enough to eat), fresh carrots, peas and pasta; or how about Braised Beef Chunks with Gravy, featuring whole beef with fresh vegetables, pasta and gravy? They look and smell so good you may be tempted to try them yourself.

12 cans: $20.95 - $29.95 www.evangersdogfood.com

As obligate carnivores, cats need a meat-based diet in order to enjoy good health. New from The Honest Kitchen is Prowl, a dehydrated raw cat food made from fresh, hormone-free chicken. The diet is grain-free and includes a range of wholesome ingredients such as eggs, potatoes, yams, flaxseed, zucchini, spinach, honey, and rosemary for a nutritious and balanced meal. It also contains cranberries for urinary tract health. Just one tablespoon of Prowl yields 1/2 ounce of fresh food when hydrated.

6 oz: $7.50 www.thehonestkitchen.com

It’s in the stars Food somehow tastes better when it’s served on colorful dinnerware, and perhaps our animal companions feel the same way. Astropets is a new line of 12 ceramic bowls from Pet Science Labs. Each bowl features a different astrological sign and sports a short description of your animal’s personality as it relates to his sign. From Aries (“Active, Cheerful, Trusting”) to Scorpio (“Strong, Proud, Smart”), there’s a bowl for every one of your beloved four-footed friends.

1 bowl: $12.95 www.petsciencelabs.com

Food for thought When you see the difference that feeding a high quality diet can make to your dog or cat, it’s worth paying that little bit extra.

Timberwolf Organics specializes in a wide variety of carnivore specific premium diets made from high quality chicken, lamb or fish, and even bison and elk. These highly digestible foods are low in carbohydrates, contain no artificial preservatives or dyes, and feature high levels of essential fatty acids for optimum skin and coat health.

3.3 lbs - 33 lbs: $3.99 - $48.99 www.timberwolforganics.com

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Top ten tips for

successful training

by Paul Owens

W

hen’s the best time to start training your dog?

Ideally, it should be the moment you first bring her home, whether she’s a seven-week-old puppy or a nine-year-old rescue from your local animal shelter.

Training simply means educating your dog in a safe and loving environment. and teaching her that she can get whatever she wants by her actions…as long as she checks with you first.

Successful training depends on your skills as well as your dog’s health, history, daily routine, diet, age, sleep and exercise patterns, and breed predispositions. There are, however, some basic tenets all dogs can benefit from. Remember that her health is your first concern. As soon as you adopt your new canine bundle of joy, make an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure she has a clean bill of health. Then you can begin the training process.

1

1. Plan ahead Collect everything you and your new dog will need, including highly valued treats, a bed, a proper buckle or Martingale-style collar, a six-foot nylon leash, wire tethers and a training clicker if you choose to use one. Create an environment that will promote success by puppy-proofing your house (remove inappropriate chewing objects like shoes, stuffed animals and the remote control), and appropriately using tethers, kennels, baby gates and exercise pens.

2

2. Make a behavioral wish list Positive training isn’t about teaching your dog to stop doing something. It’s

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about teaching him what you want him to do instead. If you don’t know what you want him to do, he won’t be able to figure it out either, and both of you will end up barking at one another in frustration. For example, it isn’t about how you can get Buster to stop jumping; it’s about teaching him to lie down when people come through the door. It isn’t about getting him to stop chewing slippers; it’s about teaching him to chew appropriate toys and ignore slippers.

Sit down with your family and make a wish list of likes (desired behaviors) and dislikes (unwanted behaviors). Learn from books, DVDs and trainers how to shape the behaviors you want, step

by step. Then you can proactively teach your dog exactly what he is supposed to do rather than reactively try to correct unwanted behaviors.

3

3. Use consistent communication We often inadvertently teach our dogs to do exactly what we don’t want them to do. For example, if you don’t want your dog to jump on you, don’t reinforce the jumping by occasionally petting him when he jumps. Be consistent and always have him sit or lie down before being petted.

A big problem people have is getting their dog to “stay.” This also has to do with inconsistent communication. For

example, don’t say “stay” and then walk out the door without releasing your dog from the command.

She’ll quickly learn that she can get up whenever she wants.

You must give her a clear signal when you ask for a behavior – and another clear signal to complete it.

condition of her heart, lungs and paw pads. If your dog is old enough and fit enough, begin with a short distance, 1. Get the behavior say a quarter mile. The classic example of a 2. Add the command dog being asked to do (e.g. sit, down, come, etc.) something he couldn’t involves the guy who 3. Add the 3 Ds took his St. Bernard of distance, duration and on a ski trip. They distraction, in baby steps were on the slope no more than two minutes Mixed messages also often cause confusion when the dog got stuck in a drift. He and unreliable behavior. For instance, don’t simply did not have the strength to move say “sit down” if you mean “lie down”. because at home he was sedentary and Don’t say “down” if you mean “off”, as out of shape. The guy was flabbergasted in “get off the furniture” or “get off me” as he watched four ski patrol rescuers free when the dog jumps. Make sure every his 160-pound dog and sled him to safety. family member is using the same signals.

“He’s a St. Bernard for crying out loud!

He’s supposed to be rescuing people, not have people rescuing him.”

There are basically three steps to every behavior:

4

4. Maintain realistic expectations

Older or larger dogs can’t always do what younger or smaller ones can do – and vice versa. Train at your dog’s individual learning rate and also take her physical and emotional abilities into account.

Here are some examples of unrealistic expectations: • You can teach a seven-week old puppy how to sit, lie down or come in just a few days. But reliable behavior won’t happen until he reaches emotional maturity, between one-and-a-half and four years of age. Similarly, some people think a golden retriever should immediately like swimming. But many retrievers don’t wake up to who they are, so to speak, until they are a year old. Other breeds undergo the same process of discovering their traits as they mature.

• Many puppies cannot be housetrained and taught to reliably eliminate outdoors until they are seven or eight months old.

• Dogs that aren’t in good shape cannot perform some tasks, no matter how much you encourage them to try. If you want your dog to jog with you, consider the

5

5. Be positive and have fun If it’s not fun for you, it’s not fun for your dog. Physical punishment and aversive training methods are not necessary and do nothing to promote or foster safety, patience, kindness and compassion. If you find yourself getting angry or frustrated, stop the training session and try again later. Positive training methods are far less stressful for you and your dog, since the attitude is that everything is a trick.

6

6. Train incrementally Remember this line and repeat it over and over: “If your dog won’t do what you want him to do, go back to the step where he was successful.”

There are basically three steps to every behavior: 1. Get the behavior.

2. Add the command (e.g. sit, down, come, etc.).

3. Add the 3 Ds of distance, duration and distraction, in baby steps.

The big secret of successful dog training animal wellness

33

is that dogs are contextual. This means if you teach your dog to sit on the living room carpet, you have to start over again on the tile floor in the kitchen.

If you teach a dog to sit while you are kneeling, you may have to start over again when you stand up. Each of these is a distinct context or situation and you have to teach your dog what you want when you change the scene. If you find yourself thinking, “My dog knows this, he’s just being stubborn,” think again.

Have you actually taught your dog to stay with other people who are standing around? Or with the vacuum cleaner running? Or while you were standing ten feet away from her?

7

7. Keep sessions short Training sessions can last from ten seconds to five minutes. That’s all you need. In fact, several two- or three-minute sessions a day are better than one or two lengthy ones. By keeping each session short, you can keep your dog highly motivated and anticipating the next one.

8

8. Reinforce spontaneous behaviors Half of all your training will not be done in formal sessions at all. Instead, by practicing the “Magnet Game,” you can reward your dog whenever you catch her doing something you like. For example, whenever you see her sit or lie down, or pick up a toy, or look at the cat instead of chasing him, reward her. All these unasked for behaviors can act like “magnets” that attract praise, affection and treats. Your dog will quickly learn how to attract you and your rewards and will start sitting or lying down more and more often. Or she will start bringing you toys or looking at you instead of chasing the cat. At first, give her the best treats you have when you catch her doing these behaviors. Gradually, praise and “life rewards” (getting to go for walks, chase a ball, get up on the couch, etc.) will replace the food, and the behaviors will eventually become established as rewards in and of themselves.

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9

9. Give your dog a job to do If you don’t give your dog a job, she will become self-employed. Here are some of the top occupations that dogs take on: • Gardener – at the end of the day you come home and find your sprinkler heads and flowers torn up.

• Official greeter – your dog jumps all over your visitors and knocks them over when they walk in the door.

• Home decorators – you come home to find all your cushions and designer shoes chewed just the way your dog wants them.

• Alarm system – the only problem is that you can't turn the alarm off, except when your dog finally goes to sleep, so the neighbors can hear her barking all day and often all night.

• Hunter – my dog Molly used to “capture” dead fish from around Lake Erie and proudly place them at my feet as she walked in the door.

• Home security system – she protects the house from intruders. If she’s aggressive, poor old Uncle Bob might soon be referred to as “Lefty.”

• Firefighter – Your dog puts out all the imaginary fires on your furniture.

The solution to all this is simple. Become your dog's employer. Employment is important because it not only provides the stimulation that your dog needs but it also promotes and develops a sense of self, purpose, and pride. The objective of giving your dog a job is not to stop her from doing any of these behaviors but to make you the boss. When you become her employer, you tell her when and where she should do all these behaviors…or not.

This means the gardener dog learns to dig in a sandbox, while the official greeter learns to lie down when the doorbell rings. The home decorator chews on appropriate objects, including

“smart toys” like specially designed tennis ball machines and gum ball machines for dogs; voice activated toys; and appropriate chew toys such as Kongs and Buster Cubes. The alarm system dog learns to bark three times when the mail carrier or visitor arrives and then to lie down quietly. The hunter learns to chase, track, hunt and kill Frisbees, pieces of cheese, and Kongs. And the firefighter learns the proper places and times to eliminate.

10

10. Ask for help Last but not least, ask for help if you can’t figure out how to train your dog, especially if you don’t know how to solve a problem. Aggression problems always call for a qualified professional trainer.

Get referrals from your veterinarian, your friends, or from www.apdt.com and www.nadoi.com. All trainers say they are positive and have lots of experience, but I suggest you interview each one and ask specific questions about the methods they use. Do they ever jerk? Or use choke chains or shock collars? Or pin dogs on their back? If you hire someone and he or she suddenly starts yelling at your dog or using any of the aforementioned techniques, ask yourself if this is how you want your best friend treated.

Successful dog training is rooted in good old common sense, and learning to anticipate problems before they happen. Train with love, affection and consistency and, above all, keep yourself and your dog safe.

Paul Owens is the author of The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training, now also available on DVD. Certified by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and endorsed by the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, Paul is the director of Raise with Praise, Inc., based in Burbank, California. www.dogwhispererdvd.com. animal wellness

35

It’s true... you really can train

your

Photo: www.catagility.com

cat

by Ann Brightman

M

y friend Sharon was recently complaining that she had to buy new living room curtains because her two young cats had virtually shredded her old ones.

“I bought these ones second-hand because I’m sure they’ll also be wrecked before long,” she told me. “I just don’t know how to stop the kittens from climbing them.” Like Sharon, a lot of people find themselves making allowances for their cats’ behavior issues because they don’t believe that felines can be taught to do otherwise.

It’s a sentiment shared by many, but it’s also misleading, as we discovered when we spoke to Bash Dibra, an animal behaviorist and trainer who has worked with many celebrity animals and has authored several best-selling books on training both dogs and cats.

train cats,” or “Cats can be trained?”

Yes, every animal can be trained.

You just have to understand how to communicate on their terms. In my book Cat Speak, I encourage people to understand that you have to think like a cat. You have to wear a different hat for different situations.

A.B.: How does training a cat differ from training a dog?

B.D.: I try to get my clients to

A.B.: Can cats really be trained?

understand that with a dog you tell them to do things; with a cat you ask them to do things. So training and behavior modification for cats is almost suggestive. It’s all operant conditioning, but you almost have to suggest it and make them feel like they’re being asked rather than told to do something, while in reality you’re modifying and shaping their behavior to make them do things.

B.D.: That’s the first thing most people

A.B.: What are some of the most common

say to me: “I didn’t know you could

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animal wellness

issues people have with their cats?

B.D.: One of the biggest things is scratching the furniture. People see it as destructive but it’s actually a natural behavior for cats. It keeps their nails clean and short and it’s also a form of behavioral marking. You have to understand that’s why they’re doing it and then redirect the behavior to something that fulfils that need. You need a good scratching post, but not with carpet or something that looks like furniture because the cat won’t know whether to use his or yours. Use a twine like sisal. Some people like to use cardboard and then wonder why the cat starts ripping up all the cardboard boxes in the house. He’s confused. I get the cat to use the scratching post by making it fun, encouraging him to play with it, and after awhile he learns to enjoy using it.

A.B.: What other kinds of problems do you see?

B.D.: Another big one is litter problems,

A.B.: Most cats seem to hate being

taken anywhere. Can you train them to enjoy trips?

B.D.: It’s best to train the cat while he’s still a kitten. I start by encouraging

“

that tells the cat when he’s doing something wrong. If you go “Psst, psst!” when the cat is on the counter, then “Off, off,” you get his attention and he learns that he can’t jump up when you’re eating. If you give mixed messages, though, like some people do, the problem will continue. If the cat jumps up while you’re eating or preparing a meal and you give him treats or food, then you’re telling him to join you while you’re eating. So you need to be clear and consistent with your messages. The majority of problems that exist are usually human error; the animals are subjected to

“

when cats urinate all over the place.

You need to understand the elements behind the behavior. It might be because of the litter, so we need to figure out which is the better litter for the cat. Or maybe it’s a health issue, so you want to go to the vet and make sure he gets the medical care he needs.

It’s all operant conditioning, but you almost have to suggest it and make them feel like they’re being asked rather than told to do something, while in reality you’re modifying and shaping their behavior to make them do things. the cat to get into his kennel cab every morning in the bedroom by tapping on the cage. Then you carry the kitten from the bedroom to the kitchen, open the carrier and feed the cat. He thinks, “Wow, that was a nice trip.” After awhile, when you tap on the carrier, he runs inside thinking, “I’m going to get fed. How exciting.” So that makes traveling fun. After awhile you can try this in other settings, like taking the cat to a neighbor’s house in the carrier (if you have a good neighbor) and feeding him there. Then it becomes a pattern. It’s what is called operant conditioning, where there’s a positive end to everything.

A.B.: A lot of people have trouble

with cats who jump on the counter or kitchen table. How do your discourage that?

B.D.: In Cat Speak, I talk about how cats communicate, the sounds they make. Certain sounds mean certain things. So you can create a language

mixed messages. You can use the same language messages for other problems as well, such as scratching furniture.

A.B.: You’ve done a lot of work training animals for various celebrities. What are a couple of your favorite stories?

B.D.: Mariah Carey has and loves cats and was really surprised to learn that they could be trained. She remarked that the cats seemed to enjoy us telling the dogs to do things, and all they had to do was sit and watch. I said true, but we can also get the cats to join the bandwagon. She said, really? You can train a cat? That really surprised her, so that was a very fun moment.

I was also hired by another client, a psychiatrist, to train her dog to do pet therapy. I was training the dog to do stunts and be entertaining and her cat would sit and stare at us. I told her that I could train the cat to do the same things and again my client was really surprised. Soon, the cat was doing exactly what the dog did – waving, lying animal wellness

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down, rolling over and jumping through hoops. Now they both do it together to see who’s best.

A.B.: Do you have any other tips or advice?

B.D.: I like to train cats to wear a leash from a young age. I want them to enjoy wearing a leash and collar because you can do more things and go out into the real world more. If you get into the habit when they’re young, you can travel the world together.

Cat people love their cats but they often say: “You can’t make them do anything, so leave them alone.” That’s not the case.

Again, you need to remember that you have to ask cats to do things, and learn to talk to them on their terms. You can enjoy making things happen but you have to be open-minded to allow them to happen. That’s what it’s all about.

Bash Dibra is an animal behaviorist with many years of training experience. He is also the author of five books on responsible pet ownership, training, and the proper treatment of animals in the entertainment industry. His titles include Dog Speak, Cat Speak and the recently released Star Pet: How to Make Your Pet a Star. Bash has trained the dogs and cats of many celebrities, including Matthew Broderick, Mariah Carey, Joan Rivers, Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger, and has appeared on The Tonight Show, Good Morning America and numerous other TV shows. Visit www.pawsacrossamerica.com or www.bashdibra.com.

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animal wellness

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Visual cues are key to

by Ann Brightman

training Should I adopt a dog with hearing loss?

A

t first, Carla thought her 12-year-old Samoyed, Ben, was ignoring her when he started failing to respond to her commands.

“Whenever I called him in from the yard, he always used to run straight to the back door, but not anymore.

Sometimes he wouldn’t even look around, even when I yelled. I just thought he was getting crotchety in his old age.” It wasn’t until Ben, always keen to greet visitors, started “ignoring” the doorbell as well that Carla realized he was going deaf. “We’re having to find other ways to communicate with him now.”

Hearing loss in dogs is relatively common, and can have a variety of causes, including old age, infectious disease or reactions to medications. Some dogs are born deaf, having inherited a gene that predisposes them to the condition. This gene is most often found in white dogs, or those with a mottled coat. Dalmatians and white great Danes are among the breeds most likely to suffer from congenital deafness.

Adopting and training a deaf dog isn’t for everyone.

“If you don’t have the extra time to spend with him initially, then he isn’t for you,” says Lin Gardinor, who shares her home with five congenitally deaf canines, and helps others with their own hearing-impaired dogs.

“At the same time, I don’t want to put people off. If you know a person with hearing impairment, and you

Lin Gardinor uses a flashlight and sign language to train her great Dane, Teddy.

don’t find that so much of a challenge, then you won’t have a problem with a dog that is deaf.”

How is training a deaf dog different?

There are several key points to start from when living and working with a dog who can’t hear.

1

“First and foremost, remember that he’s a dog,” advises Lin. “Don’t think of the deafness first. Even though he can’t hear, he’ll have the same instincts as any other dog.”

She adds that it’s important to treat the dog as normally as possible. “Don’t baby him, or shy away from all the regular things you’d do with a hearing dog.”

2

Most deaf dogs compensate for their loss of hearing by making heightened use of their other senses, including sight, smell and

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a deaf dog touch. This means they can be more responsive than average to non-auditory cues, an important factor that helps make the training process easier.

3

Another important factor is to find a training school that uses positive reinforcement and is open to helping people with deaf dogs.

Signing for a sit.

his nose, then move it slowly backwards until he sits. Then add a sign to it.”

When using sign language, it’s important to keep the signs consistent, so that the dog learns to recognize specific gestures as commands. “A lot of ASL signs are two-handed, which means you may have to adapt them because you’re often

A flash marks the sit.

According to Lin, training a deaf dog isn’t as big a departure from the norm as you might assume. The main thing to remember is that your dog can’t hear you, so the usual vocal commands like “come,” “stay” or “sit” don’t apply.

Instead, you and your dog have to rely on visual cues and commands.

“I recommend clicker training using a flashlight,” says Lin. “You’ll need an instant on-off flashlight with a button rather than a sliding switch.” Do not use a laser light.

Lin also uses American Sign Language to train and communicate with her dogs, although she adds that a knowledge of ASL isn’t mandatory and that you can make up your own signs. “To teach the dog to sit, for example, put a treat over

Teddy takes time out.

holding a flashlight or a treat at the same time,” advises Lin. Train with your back to a wall, or even in a corner, so that your dog is able to focus more exclusively on you. Dogs that can’t hear need to rely on their vision to keep tabs on what’s going on around them, and are more likely to be influenced by visual distractions. “You don’t want him to be looking behind and all around you when you’re trying to train him,” says Lin. Smile, so the dog can see your expression and will come to regard the training as a happy experience.

Remember to always reward the dog for good behavior. “I always consistently reward my dogs with small treats because animal wellness

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Old dogs can learn new tricks What about dogs who aren’t born deaf, but lose their hearing through other causes, such as aging? Can they benefit from the same training approaches? Absolutely, says Lin. “When I was training my deaf Australian shepherd, Maggie, I also had a cockapoo who’d lost his hearing due to old age. He’d watch our training sessions, saw that Maggie was getting something good for obeying my commands, and got right in there with us. He learned to sit in sign language, and he never, ever used to sit for my voice, even when he could hear! He also learned to shake a paw and give me a high five – and he was 13.”

they aren’t able to hear me say ‘what a good boy,’ or pick up on the warmth and friendliness in my voice.”

Socialization is critical You might think that because your dog can’t hear, he needs to be kept close by your side at all times. On the contrary, a deaf dog can easily learn to interact positively with other people and dogs, and can even be allowed off lead in certain circumstances. “Dogs need to be dogs,” says Lin. “They need to go to the park. You will need a fenced yard or a tie-out at home, but there’s no point getting a deaf dog and keeping him shut up or on a leash all his life because he can’t hear.”

Before letting your dog off-leash, be sure he recognizes and responds well to your visual commands, and that he will come whenyou “call” him.

Before taking your dog to a new off-leash area, visit it on your own to check out any potential trouble spots. Deaf dogs can’t hear traffic, for example, so avoid areas that aren’t fenced off from nearby roads.

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animal wellness

Don’t panic if your dog runs beyond your sight. Many deaf dogs can learn to use their sense of smell to find their way back to you. “Mine are absolutely brilliant with their noses,” Lin says. “I can hide in the woods and they’ll find me.”

Be vigilant when your dog is around other canines. “I continually socialize my dogs. I want them to use their visual skills, so they’ll see when a dog is snarling at them.

I don’t want them to turn their back on another dog, or ever get in a situation where they misread another dog.”

When people are greeting your dog, tell them to smile, avoid direct eye contact, and to offer him a palm to sniff. “Be in his line of sight, and never approach him from behind.”

Training a dog with hearing loss involves some extra challenges, but it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. “You’re learning along with your dog,” says Lin, who adds that common sense and an ability to think outside the box are also helpful. “We installed French doors in our house, for example, so the dogs can see me coming. Don’t be limited by a lack of imagination. Find a way to make it work.”

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Making

household cleaning animal-friendly

F

by Catherine Owsianiecki

Faye had just finished shining up her coffee table with a brand name furniture polish when she was shocked to see her beagle, Mitchell, put out his tongue to lick at a droplet of residue on the edge of the table. “Luckily, I was right there to stop him, but it made me wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t seen what he was doing,” she says. Then and there, Faye decided to start looking into safer, more natural alternatives to all her household cleaning products.

The problem with commercial cleaners According to the ASPCA Complete Guide to Pet Care, poisoning is the most common emergency among pets, and household cleaners like bleaches, detergents and polishes are some of the most dangerous culprits. Studies have shown that exposure to toxic levels of household chemicals can also result in genetic damage and cancer.

In addition, household cleaners can affect indoor air quality, and considering that our animals spend most of their time inside, and are closer to surfaces such as floors, rugs and upholstery, they are more susceptible to the negative impact of these substances. On average, indoor air can be up to 20 times more polluted than outdoor air, while an EPA study revealed that 900 chemicals are commonly found inside the home.

Household cleaners are a major

Dog photo: Joyce Hanson

contributor to these figures.

“There’s no one ingredient or product that we advocate for or against,” says Dana Farbman, CVT, of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). “They all pose dangers to pets if they are not used according to label directions or if a significant accidental exposure occurs.” If you must use a commercial household cleaner for one reason or another, it’s vital that you follow label directions to the letter. “If, for example, a label directs you to keep pets out of an area until the cleaning products have dried thoroughly, you need to adhere to that to avoid the potential for any issues.”

Dana warns that cats can be particularly sensitive to chemical compounds containing phenols. “If you are going to use a disinfectant spray with a phenolic compound to deodorize your cat’s litter box, you may want to wipe the litter box with a damp cloth

What’s toxic and what’s not?

Steer clear of these ingredients:

Opt for safer alternatives like:

Ammonia Chlorine Creosol Ethylene glycol Formaldehyde Hydrochloric acid Nitrobenzene Perchloroethylene Sodium hydroxide Sodium hypochlorite Trichloroethane Triclosan Turpentine Xylene

Baking soda Beeswax Cornstarch Distilled white vinegar Enzymes Hydrogen peroxide Lemon juice Sodium perborate Sodium percarbonate Zeolite

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Look at the label Debra Lynn Dadd (Home Safe Home) offers two key tips on what to keep in mind when selecting animal-friendly cleaning products.

• Cleaning products sold at natural health stores are much more likely to show a list of ingredients than those sold at supermarkets. These stores are also much more likely to sell products marked “Organic” or “Environmentally-Friendly,” which are often plant-based or soap-based and contain no toxic chemicals.

• Conversely, commercial cleaning product manufacturers are not required by law to list ingredients on their labels. Instead, they must use signal words that correspond to varying degrees of toxicity or danger. Products labeled with the word “Danger” and marked with a skull and crossbones are highly toxic and should not be used or stored around animals.

Products labeled with the word “Caution” are likely to pose slighter risks, but still need to be treated with care.

afterward to remove any significant residue,” she says.

safer, more natural alternatives available on today’s market.

Products that contain corrosive agents, like bleaches, oven cleaners and anything with a high acid or alkaline content, can cause irritation if they come into contact with an animal’s skin. They can also harm mucus membranes if they are lapped up or inhaled. Dana warns that exposure to corrosives can be lifethreatening if it causes enough irritation to lead to the ulceration or perforation of the GI tract. If a cleaning product is potentially corrosive, it will generally say so on the label. You should also watch out for anything that states it can cause severe skin irritation. “Of course, if any product label directs you to keep children away, it is safe to assume that the same goes for your pets,” says Dana.

When choosing a product, check for a list of ingredients to make sure it’s as natural or non-toxic as it claims. Truly natural cleaning products will contain agents such as botanicals, citrus extracts, and vegetable-based soaps. Companies like Nature Clean offer everything from kitchen and bathroom spray cleaners to chlorine-free dishwashing liquids, toilet bowl cleaners, and cleaners for windows, floors, carpets, tiles and upholstery – in short, everything you need to keep your house looking its best without resorting to harmful chemicals. Enzyme-based cleaners are another good alternative.

The enzymes in these products help break down grease, soil, urine and odorcausing substances into water-soluble components. Companies such as Natural Chemistry offer a range of enzyme-based cleaners including products designed to remove stains and odors left by animals on bedding, carpets and other household surfaces.

Taking a safer route Fortunately, you do not have to sacrifice a sparkling clean home for the health of your best friend. For animals guardians who would like to completely avoid the hazards of toxic cleaners, there are lots of

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“These are healthier and more environmentally responsible alternatives to

What to do if you suspect poisoning Dana Farbman explains that, while there are no cardinal signs of a poisoning, you should always be wary of gastrointestinal symptoms. If you see drooling, vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite in your dog or cat, it is always a good idea to call your vet.

If you suspect that your companion has been exposed to a toxic ingredient, have the product container at hand, as well as all your animal’s medical information so your vet can determine if it’s an emergency or something that can be managed at home. “The basic steps are to gather all your information quickly and to contact your vet or APCC so that qualified professionals can effectively advise you,” says Dana. “Never attempt any home treatment or decontamination without first consulting a veterinary professional.”

For round-the-clock help in any animal poison-related emergency, call the ASPC Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. Outside the U.S., call 217-337-5030. A $50 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.

harsh detergents and emollients such as sodium laurel sulfate,” says Karyn Maier, author of The Naturally Clean Home. Not only are they non-toxic and far less irritating to the skin, but they’re also biodegradable and much easier on the earth than commercial products.

Making your own cleaners Debra Lynn Dadd, author of Home Safe Home, recommends that animal guardians consider making their own cleaning products from natural ingredients like baking soda, soap, and vinegar. “I use vinegar as an all-purpose cleaner and wash my windows with half-and-half vinegar and water,” says Debra. “I did a price comparison and found that commercial window cleaners cost ten times more than my homemade solution. So you can save a lot of money while using cleaners that are much safer for your pets.”

Homemade cleaners are very easy to make, as the following recipes from Eartheasy, a website that offers all kinds of ideas for sustainable living, will show.

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Oven Cleaner Moisten oven surfaces with sponge and water. Sprinkle several layers of baking soda and let set for one hour. Rub gently with fine steel wool for tough spots.

It’s important to recognize that any cleaner, natural or not, should be stored beyond the reach of children and animals. Nearly any ingredient, or combination of ingredients, can be harmful if swallowed, or if contact is made with the eyes. Even citrus-based cleaners can irritate the skin or cause central nervous system depression if ingested. But using products made from more natural ingredients is certainly the better way to go, as Faye can testify.

“You need to do a bit of homework to make sure you’re sourcing the right products, but it’s worth the effort,” she says. “It makes me feel better animal wellness

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knowing I’m not exposing Mitchell – and the rest of my family – to a lot of toxic chemicals. I think it’s a wise move for anyone to make.”

Resources for safer cleaning Informational websites ASPCA www.aspca.org Eartheasy www.eartheasy.com

Non-toxic cleaning products Natural Chemistry www.naturalchemistry.com Nature Clean www.franktross.com

Books Home Safe Home

by Debra Lynn Dadd (Tarcher-Putnam, 1997) The Naturally Clean Home

by Karyn Maier (Storey Books, 1999) Are You Poisoning Your Pets?

by Nina Anderson and Howard Peiper (Avery Publishing, 1998) The ASPCA Complete Guide to Pet Care

by David L. Carroll (Penguin, 2001) The Safe Shopper’s Bible

by David Steinman and Samuel S. Epstein, M.D. (Macmillan, 1995) Catherine Owsianiecki is a freelance writer and the editor of the Harford Tattle Tale, the newsletter of the Humane Society of Harford County. She lives in Bel Air, Maryland with Tasha, a Yorkshire terrier, and Einstein, a lop-eared rabbit.

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Supplements for the seasons of their lives

by Audi Donamor

W

hile visiting a litter of three-weekold puppies recently, I was struck by how our animals’ lives are shaped by the humans who fill their days and their tummies. Every time I look into the eyes of my own animal companions, I am reminded of the very special trust that has been laid at my feet, to provide a safe and nurturing environment for these wonderful creatures through the circle of their lives.

One of the best ways to start is to provide our dogs and cats with the healthiest diet possible. The food you choose for your animal companion should include high quality protein with at least one whole meat source at the top of the list of ingredients. Remember, the operative phrase is “at least.” You are not interested in processed grains, food fragments, meat by-products, generic animal fats, BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin, color or sweeteners. You should also be intimately familiar with what a Guaranteed Analysis looks like, and when and where the food was made.

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Meeting a dog's and cat's changing needs Whether you feed your animal a raw or home-cooked diet, or a premium canned or dry food, the bottom line is that each animal is as unique as we are, with varying needs that change through the seasons of their lives. While many packaged diets contain the necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients for maintaining good health, there are times in our cat’s or dog’s life when a special supplement may come into play for a particular situation.

It’s also important to remember that, just like us, our animals have different needs at different stages of their life.

As with anything else, you need to consult a holistic veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before adding supplements to your animal companion’s diet plan. In the meantime, here are some supplements that can be used for different situations and at different times in your animal’s life.

Chamomile Is your puppy teething? Are you dreading your cat’s next vet visit? Chamomile may be just what you are looking for. Young or old, our animal companions can benefit from the soothing properties of this gentle herb. Pour boiling water over an organic tea bag filled with chamomile flowers.

Steep for 15 minutes, cool, then add this

special brew to your animal’s drinking water or food. Another alternative is Herbs for Kids Chamomile Calm. Although designed for children, this product is a safe, gentle, alcohol-free formulation that will help balance and nourish your dog or cat’s nervous system.

Probiotics We have all seen TV commercials that begin: “Upset stomach, diarrhea…”

There are also going to be times in our animals’ lives when they will benefit from the addition of probiotics to their diet. Many strains of beneficial bacteria are normally present in the gut, and they perform a variety of functions critical to overall health and well being, including digestion, nutrient absorption, the elimination of toxic substances, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Probiotics contain billions of beneficial bacteria, including lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidum, which help control yeast and other harmful bacteria, and can be beneficial to animals under stress or who are experiencing problems with their digestive system. It may take only one round of antibiotics to destroy the healthy bacteria in the gut along with the pathogenic bacteria that caused the problem in the first place.

This is where probiotics come into play.

Many holistic veterinarians recommend

that a probiotic be given at the same time as an antibiotic, to help maintain beneficial bacteria and to restore any healthy bacteria that have been destroyed. It is generally recommended that you continue supplementing probiotics for at least two weeks following a round of antibiotics. If your animal has additional digestive problems, you may want to consider supplementing with probiotics for one to three months.

Normal levels of lactobacilli in the intestines enhance the absorption of essential trace elements, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. Adding acidophilus to your animal’s diet also helps him synthesize B vitamins, especially folic acid and biotin. One brand of probiotics that you may want to check out at the health food store is SISU Non-Dairy Dophilus Plus Acidophilus, which contains four billion active cells of lactobacillus acidophilus, l. bifidus, and enterococcus faecium per capsule. Simply add two capsules to your animal’s daily supplement regimen.

How does your puppy or kitten age?

This chart is a guide only. Larger breed dogs tend to age more quickly than smaller breeds.

YEARS

YEARS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

15 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84 88 92 96

Probiotics become even more important as our animals age and the secretion of gastrointestinal juices lessens. Don’t forget to check the ingredient list carefully before purchasing a product. Paying a lot does not mean you are getting a lot. Check laboratory assays, whenever possible.

Remember, too, that it’s always a good idea to have stool samples checked by your veterinarian to ensure that the good guys have truly run the bad guys out of town. Interestingly, dogs appear to develop more problems with antibiotics than cats.

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Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) GSE is a broad spectrum, non-toxic, antimicrobial product derived from the seeds, pulp and white membranes of grapefruit.

In hundreds of laboratory tests, GSE has demonstrated its ability to kill or inhibit the growth of a wide range of potentially harmful bacteria, fungi,

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51

viruses and protozoan parasites.

Grapefruit seed extract should be in everyone’s first aid kit, and make sure to take it when you go on trips with your animal, since their systems can be stressed by travel. For diarrhea, use one drop for each pound of body weight. For more information, check out www.nutribiotic.com/GSELiquid.htm.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) Requirements for EFAs vary for dogs and cats. While dogs have the ability to produce their own arachidonic acid, for example, cats need to get this EFA directly from their diets. You can consider giving your feline companion evening primrose oil or borage oil.

API HEALTH Joint relief for pets

API HEALTH liquid manuka honey with bee venom or chewable tablet works wonders for arthritis in dogs, cats and horses. The result is a natural anti-inflammatory action similar to the drug cortisone without the undesirable side effects.

API HEALTH pet honey contains the optimum dose of honey bee venom for pet pain relief.

Gregory Tilford, co-author of All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets, points out that dogs and cats deficient in EFAs typically develop chronic skin and coat problems, digestive issues, and cardiovascular and degenerative eye disease. Add an essential fatty acid supplement to the diet, and you will see a softer coat, less shedding, and healthier skin. Wild salmon oil is an excellent choice as an Omega 3 essential fatty acid for both dogs and cats. It’s rich in eicosapentaeoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaneoic acid (DHA), which are important for blood pressure, the

Yogurt

immune system, reproductive health, and blood clotting ability. It also helps support animals with inflammatory conditions, like arthritis and allergies.

When shopping for salmon oil, it’s critical to select products that say wild on the label, because that means the fish was caught in the wild and is not a farmed fish that likely contains high levels of PCBs and mercury. There are a variety of excellent products to choose from. Monica Segal Brand Premium Supplements from Natural Sources North Atlantic Wild Salmon Oil for Dogs comes in a gelatin, glycerin, and purified water base, with no artificial preservatives, color, milk, soy, corn, wheat or yeast. Grizzly Salmon Oil for Cats is an all-natural salmon oil extracted from freshly harvested wild Alaskan salmon. You can also choose from Only Natural Pet Salmon Oil, made from 100% salmon oil from Iceland, and Timberwolf Organics’ Wild Deep Sea Salmon Oil, from the cold, pure waters of the North Atlantic. Organika, Natural Factors and Enerex also produce excellent wild salmon oil products.

Cranberry Given the number of dogs and cats with urinary tract issues, it’s not surprising that cranberry extract has been getting

is a good source of probiotics for you and your animal. Here’s how to make your own.

1. Pour 1 or 2 liters of organic homogenized milk or goat’s milk into a large pot.

2. Bring it to the boil, watching it very carefully and turning down the heat before it comes to a rolling boil.

To see even better results combine this with our BORUTUTU capsules for your pet’s liver cleansing programme.

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Do not use if your pet is allergic to bee stings or bee products.If your pet is on heart, blood pressure or diabetes medication, seek medical advice prior to use.

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3. Let cool until lukewarm.

4. Mix one small container of Astro Balkan Style Yogurt, or another firm yogurt

of your choice, including goat or sheep yogurt, with a bit of the milk until it is smooth. The more yogurt you use, the firmer your own yogurt will be.

5. Put it back in the pot and leave it until yogurt has formed. This could take as long as 8 to 12 hours.

6. Put your yogurt into containers and store in the refrigerator. Homemade yogurt will last as long as commercial brands do.

more and more great press. When it comes to the treatment and prevention of struvite crystals in cats, and bladder stones in dogs, cranberry is the one supplement that should always be in your kitchen cupboard. Cranberries contain bioactive components, including the antioxidants proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins, ellagic acid, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Cranberry’s real claim to fame, however, is that it prevents e-coli bacteria from attaching to the bladder wall.

Try supplementing your animal’s diet with pure cranberry juice. Swiss Natural Sources makes a couple of excellent products: Cran-Max (250 mg) comes in caplet form, while Cranberry Extract (1,132 mg) comes in a soft gel capsule.

Whichever you choose, it can help you maintain your animal companion’s urinary tract health.

Vitamin E When it comes to aging cats and dogs, Vitamin E may be the most important supplement. It plays an essential role in the healthy function of every cell in the body. Aging is associated with many degenerative changes, and Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties help prevent or slow down the process. Studies have shown that when companion animals are given Vitamin E from the time they are young, age-related problems such as cataracts, cardiovascular disease, and compromised immune systems do not appear as readily.

Make sure you choose a d alpha tocopheryl formulation, like Natural Factors Clear Base Natural Source Vitamin E, which is free from allergens and contains no artificial preservatives, color, dairy, soy, starch, wheat, or yeast. Small dogs can benefit from 100 IU per day, medium dogs 200 IU per day, and large dogs 400 IU per day. Cats can be given from 2 to 20 IU of Vitamin E per day.

slippery elm can be the perfect supplement to reach for when your animal has gone off his food.

boils, or insect bites, and internally for the coughing, vomiting, and even for stomach or bowel cancer.

Slippery elm is a nutrient dense food supplement for very young, old, or very weak cats and dogs. It coats and heals inflamed tissues, and is used for the stomach, kidneys and bowels for problems such as ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery and colitis. It can be used externally for wounds, burns, rashes, abscesses,

Slippery elm is rich in calcium, magnesium, protein, iodine, manganese, trace minerals, and soothing mucilage, as well as vitamins A, B, C, and K. For ailing animals, try mixing some slippery elm with honey and water. Tree Barks Powder is available from www.naturalrearing.com and Nature’s Way also makes a very good

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C.J. Puotinen, author of The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care, suggests giving ill animals one teaspoon of slippery elm per ten pounds of body weight every two to three hours. In their book, Gregory Tilford and Mary Wulff-Tilford suggest making a nutritional digestive tonic by combining one teaspoon of the dried inner bark steeped in eight ounces of hot water to which one teaspoon of honey has been added.

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After about a month, both of their coats looked shinier, and Codi was getting around better; his joints didn’t seem to be as stiff and sore. My new Vet did tests and found that Codi’s blood levels and urine levels were very good, without giving him the medication my first Vet wanted me to give him.

I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the advice and concern of Dr. Sulkowski, he has helped me so much. He expressed sincere concern for my dogs, which I truly appreciate. Without his advice and supplements, I don’t think Codi and Green would be doing as well as they are. They both mean the world to me and Dr. Sulkowski has changed my way of caring for them, in such a positive way!”

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How to make your walk the best it can be Here are our top "DOs" and "DON'Ts" Getting a dog is one sure way to get some exercise – or it should be! Regardless of the type of dog you have, your canine companion needs to stretch his legs daily. While a Shih Tzu won’t keep the same pace as a Lab, canines big and small love to see you strapping on your running shoes and grabbing a leash.

But is your walk the best it could be? Here are a few dos and don’ts to remember before you and your dog hit the street or trail (especially if one or both of you is new to the exercise game).

DO start off slow and be consistent. Ten to 15 minutes a day is all you need at the beginning. Increase your time as your cardiovascular strength builds. Work up to an hour a day if you’re both game for it. Remember, though, consistency is important. You can’t expect your dog to go from a ten-minute walk during the week to a two-hour hike on the weekend, even if he seems more than willing.

the path of a car or a territorial animal.

DO take care on asphalt roads and sidewalks. They can be hard on paws due to summer heat or salt and ice in winter. Buy a set of dog boots or, if possible, keep your canine on the grass.

DON'T forget to take a poop bag. In many public areas, cleaning

DO rest when your dog wants to. Look for any signs of fatigue

up after your dog is the law. Even if it’s not, it’s to everyone’s advantage to keep sidewalks, parks and walking trails clean.

or breathing problems and try not to overdo it, especially when you’re first starting out.

DON'T go for walks during extreme weather. If it’s “40

DON'T forget to wear reflectors when walking at night.

below” or hot as a sauna, neither you nor your dog should be exercising outdoors.

Clothing, collar and leash reflectors could save your life, especially if you have a fairly long leash or accidentally run into

DO take refreshments. The more active your dog is, the more animal wellness

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water he’ll need. Make sure he has plenty of fresh water before and after your run. If you’re going for a long hike, take some water and treats along with you.

DO vary your route. Even dogs can get bored with the same old routine. Taking him a different way once or twice a week will keep him mentally stimulated and is also more interesting for you.

DO consider a dog walking buddy. It’s always more fun to do things with a friend, so if you know someone who also has a dog, plan to take your walks together. Just ensure the dogs are going to be compatible, and that they match in terms of exercise ability, so one doesn’t tire before the other is even warmed up.

DON'T neglect to use caution when meeting other dogs.

Keep your dog on a leash and ask about the other dog’s temperament before approaching. Keep an eye on their body language – if Exercise offers the same benefits either dog shows to your dog as it does to you. signs of nervousness or aggression, • tones muscles back off.

Get moving!

• helps prevent obesity • strengthens the cardiovascular system • strengthens bones • improves sleep • provides mood-stabilizing benefits • enhances mental alertness • promotes overall health • provides socialization opportunities

DO

avoid areas sprayed with pesticides. Because they’re closer to the ground than we are, dogs are much more likely to ingest or absorb these toxins. Beat a hasty retreat if you see lawn-spraying signs or smell chemicals.

DON'T forget to check his collar and leash before heading out. Make sure both are in good condition and are in no danger of breaking or coming apart, and that your dog’s ID information is intact.

DO let your dog walk you on occasion. Allow him to decide which way to go and see where he leads you. Just make sure he sticks to safe and acceptable routes.

DO get a pedometer. This is an excellent way to keep a record of how many miles you and your buddy walk on a weekly basis, and how many calories you’re burning.

DO

Last but not least, take notice of the sights, smells and sounds around you . . . and enjoy yourselves!

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BOOK Excerpt

Choosing the right veterinarian:

Advice from

by Shannon Fujimoto Nakaya, DVM

A

veterinarian observed that his own fifteen-year-old cat had a slightly decreased appetite and a tiny bit of weight loss. When blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasound were all normal, the veterinarian decided to anesthetize his cat and biopsy its intestinal tract. Thus he learned that his cat had lymphoma, a type of cancer. A year later, when his cat was still alive and thriving with the help of chemotherapy, he started to present the case to other veterinarians. He described his surprise at the negative responses he’d received from other veterinarians, who’d felt that a fifteen-year-old cat was clearly past its prime and such extravagant diagnostics and heroic treatments were unnecessary. This story clearly exemplifies one of the heavy topics of disagreement about pets and indicates the broad range of value systems that exists among veterinarians, as well as among pet owners.

Personal values and medicine

Traditionally, doctors of Western medicine have assumed a paternalistic approach to diagnosing and treating patients. This attitude derives from the idea that Western medicine is based on science and that doctors understand that science and medicine in a way that laypersons cannot. For the sake of physician efficiency, clients and patients are kept less informed of the medical process and are expected to comply and get better.

Moreover, as science and medicine have evolved, there are more diagnostic and therapeutic options to choose from.

Choices for a cat with renal disease, for example, might include blood tests, urine tests, X-rays, ultrasound, biopsy, transplant, dialysis, diuresis, special feeding, hospitalization, feeding tubes, medicines, and transfusions. Depending on the cat, the client, their relationship, and the client’s resources, not to mention the client’s spiritual and ethical beliefs, the best choices for each individual will be different. If decisions are based only on science, with the goal being longevity, our pets will be reduced to nothing more than furry test tubes and research animals.

Even when your veterinarian presents you with options, those options are still subject to that veterinarian’s values and experiences. Take myself, for example: I don’t believe

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a vet in vaccinating six-week-old puppies with modified live virus vaccines; I don’t crop ears; I don’t take unnecessary anesthetic risks; and I will not surgically impregnate an animal. I don’t endorse treating unchecked arthritic dogs with aspirin. My approach to aging joints starts with a physical examination to evaluate the patient’s overall health, conformation, activity level, range of motion, and degree of discomfort. If indicated, blood work and/or radiographs might be recommended. I encourage weight management, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, nutritional supplements, acupuncture, regular exercise, heat, and massage – all with the intention of minimizing drug therapy. As much as I try to provide clients with options, there are some options and practices that I am not comfortable with. If those happen to be options that a client prefers, then I usually suggest the individual find a veterinarian who can support his or her values.

Levels of training and types of veterinary practices

Historically, most veterinarians ended their formal training at the level of the general practitioner and rose to the occasion when patients with special needs presented themselves. In recent years, there have been more opportunities for veterinarians to formally advance their training and become recognized as specialists, similar to specialists in human medicine.

As with any other health care professional, there are things to keep in mind when working with a specialist. First, specialists are still subject to their own biases. Suppose your pet has a lump.

A surgeon might recommend surgery; an oncologist might recommend radiation and chemotherapy; and a naturopath might advise herbs, nutrition, and acupuncture. Second, specialists are trained to have expertise in diagnosing and treating specific problems; other knowledge and interests may have gotten archived. Moreover, depending on the practice, specialists do not always communicate well with one another.

I once spoke with a surgeon who wanted to perform a fancy reconstructive surgery on a patient, unaware that the patient had a serious clotting problem. Meanwhile, the internal medicine doctor, an expert in clotting disorders, was advising animal wellness

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against surgery without ever seeing the injured body part, which clearly required some form of surgical attention.

Rather than pooling their expertise and resources, they were each speaking solely from their specialist perspectives and so were giving inadequate advice. Much like a symphony, you can have amazing musicians, but you still need a conductor in order to make music.

Another current trend is a rise in the number of corporateowned veterinary practices and a decrease in the number of independent, private practices. On the plus side, the largest of these corporate practices and hospitals can usually share resources, have more money to invest in state-of-the-art equipment, and can purchase supplies in bulk quantities at lower costs. They can also more readily offer round-the-clock sophisticated veterinary care. However, it is less likely that one or two familiar veterinarians will be directly involved and accountable for everything that happens to your pet from admit to discharge; it is more likely that a number of people will be involved, and they will be doing their jobs according to established hospital protocol.

Finding a veterinarian

You will have to decide what traits are most important to you and work from there. Is it training and experience? I

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know veterinarians who are immensely talented but who have abrasive personalities, always run behind schedule, or are very financially driven. I know veterinarians who are open-minded to alternatives and integrative medicine and those who are not. There are veterinarians who believe that life is sacred and should always be prolonged, as well as those who think that diagnosing and treating older animals is a waste of medical resources. There are veterinarians who treat their own animals as members of the family and those who maintain more defined boundaries between animals and humans. There are veterinarians who will make choices for you and simply tell you what to do, and those who will provide information and options and let you decide what would work best for your animal companion.

Once you have determined which traits are most important to you, start looking and asking. In most cases, a general practitioner will become your primary care veterinarian, if not your complete care veterinarian. She or he is someone you should feel comfortable with. Most clients find their veterinarians, particularly general practice or primary care veterinarians, via the phone book or by word of mouth. If you are looking for a specialist, then you can start with the organizations that certify them.

Once you have a list of veterinarians to consider, start learning about them and their practices. Call the practice and ask them to send you any descriptive pamphlets. Check out their website

if they have one. Arrange for a visit or a tour, and ask if you might meet the veterinarian. Keep your priorities in mind as you evaluate the practice and the specific doctor. If both seem to your liking, schedule a “new patient” appointment for your pet. This gives you an opportunity to observe the veterinarian in action with your animal companion (and allows you to solicit your animal companion’s opinion), and it allows the veterinarian to meet your animal companion as a healthy pet and have something to compare to should a problem arise in the future.

Finding a veterinarian with whom you are comfortable is much like finding anyone else with whom you would like to have a good working relationship. Sharing a short story or something special about your animal companion helps veterinarians get to know him or her more like you do, as a kindred spirit beyond the sum of his or her body parts. Providing the care that preserves these humananimal bonds is one of the greatest rewards of my profession.

From the book Kindred Spirit, Kindred Care, Copyright ©2005 by Shannon Fujimoto Nakaya. Reprinted with the permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. www.newworldlibrary.com or 800-972-6657 ext. 52.

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Beverly Hills Mutt Club owner, Sandy Siegler, daughter and VP Celina Bojorquez and CEO (Canine Executive Officer) Tattoo.

Upscale doggie boutique

caters to the humble mutt

by Celina Bojorquez

I

’ve noticed that dogs aren’t treated as outsiders as much as they used to be, tied up in back yards or sleeping in doghouses like they did when I was growing up. Today’s dogs are an integral part of the family, spending most of their daily life inside the house. They watch television with their human friends, hang out on the couch, play, cuddle and share dinner (and of course, the bed). They ride around in cars with us and go to coffee houses.

They even go shopping and to therapy with us.

They have their own pet sitters, walkers, play parks and swimming pools.

I’ve recently discovered a lot of upscale pet boutiques that cater to this newfound “canine freedom”. One example is The Beverly Hills Mutt Club in Beverly Hills, California. It was founded on the principle that all dogs are created equal and entitled to life, liberty and treats.

Things have come a long way for dogs, and considering how sweet, loyal and loving they are, it’s a change that’s well deserved.

Things have come a long way for dogs, and considering how sweet, loyal and loving they are, it’s a change that’s well deserved. And this doesn’t just apply to the purebred elite. The modest mutt is also entitled to a Beverly Hills lifestyle.

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“Our mission is to let people know that any dog can live the pampered life,” says Sandy Siegler, who owns and operates the business along with her daughter and company Vice President, Celina Bojorquez.

Fittingly, the Beverly Hills Mutt Club was founded by a dog. Tattoo, a Shih Tzu-poodle mix (Shih-Poo), was adopted

by Susan and Celina and became the inspiration for the business. As well as being the founder, Tattoo is also the CEO (Canine Executive Officer). He

reviews and selects products and frequently tests the dog beds for comfort and durability.

In May of 2005, the Beverly Hills Mutt Club opened its Beverly Hills store. Fashion is king at this unique shopping experience where racks of cashmere sweaters, prom dresses, sun dresses, and even one-of-a-kind “doggie couture” designer dresses are available for the well-dressed canine. They also sell matching shoes -- in sets of four, of course!

The store is designed for the canine customer. The décor is “doggie chic”, with a comfortable chaise longue for humans to relax on while the dogs check out the merchandise. As chief greeter, Tattoo puts in long hours licking customers, modeling clothes, and showing other dogs around the store.

The mother and daughter team say they were inspired to start an upscale pet boutique catering to mixed breeds in order to help bring mutts up to par with their purebred cousins. “Mutts are often downplayed, but they are actually very wonderful and smart,” says Susan. “Here in Beverly Hills, in fact, mutts are definitely ‘in.’”

The Beverly Hills Mutt Club is a unique pet boutique and membership club for dogs, designed to give every mutt the Beverly Hills lifestyle. For more information, please go to www.beverlyhillsmuttclub.com.

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“I am working towards rediscovering the common ground that once existed when people lived in harmony with animals.” ~ Gregory Colbert

Ashes and Snow celebrates the human-animal bond 64

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bond

Photos: © Gregory Colbert.

T

There’s something spiritually uplifting about the relationship people share with animals. To explore and celebrate that relationship, Torontoborn filmmaker and fine arts photographer Gregory Colbert spent ten years traveling the world from India to Antarctica, using his unique photographic artistry to capture on film the mystical interaction between humans and animals. The result was Ashes and Snow, an exhibition of large-scale photographic artworks that debuted in Venice in 2002, making history as the largest solo exhibition ever mounted in that city. Last year, Ashes and Snow came to North America, opening in New York, where it attracted more than half a million visitors during its three-month stay.

Now, you can see this spectacular exhibition on the west coast. Until May 14, Ashes and Snow is on display at California’s Santa Monica Pier in the Nomadic Museum, a 56,000square-foot structure designed by architect Shigeru Ban. What makes this traveling museum so unique is that it’s made mostly from recyclable and reusable materials such as shipping containers and paper tubing.

As a demonstration of sustainable building practices, it’s an ideal backdrop for Colbert’s work.

Ashes and Snow features breath-taking portrayals of more than 40 animal species, including elephants, whales, eagles, manatees, orangutans, cranes and leopards. The works also include moving portraits of Burmese monks, trance dancers and children in

Facing page: Photographer Gregory Colbert free-dives with a sperm whale. animal wellness

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harmonious interaction with animals.

Three 35mm films round out the exhibition, which supports the work of Flying Elephants Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes awareness of environmental, social and cultural issues through all forms of artistic endeavor.

“In exploring the shared language and poetic sensibilities of all animals, I am working towards rediscovering the common ground that once existed when people lived in harmony with animals,” says Colbert. “The images depict a world that is without beginning or end, here or there, past or present. I hope the overall effect is an experience of wonder and contemplation, serenity, and hope.”

To

find out more, visit

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Enter our 4th Annual

Amazing Animals Photo Contest!

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

Enter our Amazing Animals Photo Contest and you could win one of 20 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!

You can enter in one of the categories below, or simply let our judges choose which category fits best. Enter by April 14, 2006 for your chance to win.

• Best photo • Most artistic • Best bond • Biggest attitude • Best nature-lover

• Funniest • Happiest • Best eyes • Most athletic • Best pals 2005 "Best Photo" winner "Suzie" by Joanne Lowe, Toronto, ON Inset: Illustration by Robyn Feeley (www.bungalowart.com)

The rules are simple: 1. Send a digital photo, scanned at a minimum of 5"x7", at 300 dpi resolution in a tif, jpeg or pdf format to: photos@animalwellnessmagazine.com or send a good quality hard copy original photo (not a color copy) of your animal to:

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.

Photo Contest, Animal Wellness Magazine,

4.. All photos become property of Redstone Media Group. Redstone

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Media Group reserves the right to publish all photos in Animal Wellness Magazine, and on our website. We regret that photos cannot be returned.

2. Please remember to include your name, address and telephone number, along with your animal's name, sex and age (if known) and a

5. Winners will be notified by phone or mail and winning photos will

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69

Toxoplasmosis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; how to protect yourself and your feline friend

by Michelle Bernard

S

Stephanie had been feeding her two cats a raw meat diet for about six months when she and her husband received the exciting news that she was pregnant. While Stephanie was very happy with the health improvements in her cats since starting the new diet, she was also worried about the possibility of contracting toxoplasmosis. Most of the literature she read on the disease cautioned against feeding raw meat to cats or allowing them outside to hunt.

Even worse, some of her co-workers and friends told her she should get rid of her cats now that she had a baby coming.

What is toxoplasmosis and can it harm my cat?

Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite. The definitive hosts for the parasite â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the only animals in which the organism can reproduce sexually â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are members of the Felidae family, which includes the domestic cat. Intermediate hosts, which can be virtually any warm-blooded animal, including man, can also become infected with toxoplasma.

Cats are exposed to toxoplasma by ingesting infected tissue from an intermediate host such as a rodent, bird, or raw meat. Three to ten days later, the cat will begin shedding oocysts (eggs) and continue to do so for around ten to 14 days, during

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which many millions of oocysts may be produced. While an infected cat generally does not re-shed oocysts following her first exposure to toxoplasma, feeding her a raw meat diet, and/or allowing her to hunt and consume prey, will mean that she is continually exposed to toxoplasma and will continue to shed oocysts.

Because a cat is generally a very clean animal, there is little risk of oocysts sticking to her fur after using the litter box – unless she is overweight to the point where she can’t reach her personal parts to clean. If this is the case, then steps need to be taken to reduce her weight, not only for your well being, but hers as well, since obesity can cause its own set of health problems.

Cats usually do not become ill with toxoplasmosis. However, individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with feline leukemia (FeLV) or feline immune deficiency virus (FIV) can be at risk. It’s a good idea to consult with a holistic veterinarian before switching a cat with these diseases to a raw diet.

Can toxoplasmosis make me sick?

Toxoplasmosis rarely causes serious illness in adult humans. It can, however, lead to blindness and mental retardation in congenitally infected children. As well, a person with a compromised immune system, such as someone with cancer or HIV, is more susceptible to infection.

A woman who contracts toxoplasmosis during pregnancy could suffer a miscarriage or stillbirth. If you are pregnant, it’s a good idea to have a blood test performed to see if you have any antibodies to toxoplasma.

If you do, this means you have animal wellness

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already been exposed to toxoplasma and are likely immune to the disease.

This does not mean you need to give up your cat if you are pregnant or immunocompromised. You do, however, need to use extra caution when handling raw meat, cleaning the litter box, or doing any outdoor work that involves handling soil.

Does this mean feeding raw is dangerous?

No, so long as you use common sense and take the right precautions. In fact, properly prepared raw meat is a wonderfully healthful diet for your cat.

As with anything else, there are risks, but you can minimize them by following these three steps:

1 2 3

Feed a high quality product, organically raised if possible and purchased from a trusted source.

Freezing (and cooking) destroys toxoplasma. Therefore, purchasing a premium frozen raw diet, or freezing the meat prior to feeding it to your cat, is a good safeguard.

In addition to toxoplasma, raw meat can carry many other types of bacteria so it is always a good idea for everyone to wear

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sanitary gloves when handling it. Make sure to thoroughly clean cutting boards, knives and other tools and surfaces after working with the meat, and always wash your hands well with soap and water.

might. Wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after working in soil.

What about the litter box?

A cooked or good quality canned diet will virtually eliminate any chance of infection by toxoplasma.

After the oocysts are passed in your cat’s feces, they do not become infectious for one or two days. Therefore, diligent litter box cleaning is important to avoid infection. You should remove stool from your cat’s litter box at least once a day, if not more often. Use disposable sanitary gloves if you are pregnant or suffering from an immuno-suppressive disease; even better, get someone else in the household to take over litter box duties.

If you still feel worried, you can always dump the entire contents of the litter box once a day, wash the box with a mild bleach solution, and refill it with clean litter. This admittedly takes some work, but it might be worthwhile if you need the extra peace of mind.

What else can I do?

Caution should be used when gardening or doing yard work. Even if your own cat doesn’t use your flower border as a litter box, neighborhood strays

Keep your cat indoors so she doesn’t have the opportunity to hunt.

Happily, Stephanie did not opt to get rid of her cats. She instead elected to have a blood test, which indicated she had antibodies to toxoplasma and was thus immune to the disease. She also used caution when preparing her cats’ meals, and had her husband clean the litter box while she was pregnant. Stephanie delivered a healthy baby boy, and her cats continue to thrive on their raw diet.

Michelle Bernard, author of Raising Cats Naturally, has spent over a decade researching natural health for cats. A freelance writer who breeds American shorthair cats, she has been keeping her own cats vibrantly healthy since 1993 using a raw meat diet, homeopathy, and plain common sense. Michelle is renowned for her sound approach to rearing cats and her writing on many aspects of holistic cat care.

She offers nutritional and natural

health consultations from her home in

North Carolina. www.blakkatz.com

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77

animal animal passages passages

Promises

by Teresa Banks

I

promises

was in fourth grade when the stars aligned and my parents granted me a dog. More specifically, my parents were divorcing and needed a diversion.

My father drove me to a friend’s house to see the three-day-old puppies that would soon need a home. We were only going to “take a look,” a concept completely lost on me. I relied on nine-year-old wisdom and fell head over heels for the white puppy with small brown patches encircling her eyes and ears. I decided to call her Hobo after a dog in a children’s book I was reading. The story pained my heart because the dog was abandoned

Hobo

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to keep

and unloved. I vowed that would never happen to my Hobo.

We were inseparable during our early years together. Every day before school, I fed Hobo and gave her fresh water. I’d brush her too, if I got up early enough.

After school, we’d play. We’d go back to the school grounds together where I’d let her run the field. I didn’t formally train her, but she was obedient and wellmannered just the same. We shared the special communication that dogs and children have; we just understood each other. She was less a dog and more a

fellow being. During this time, my parents’ divorce became final, but I wasn’t upset.

Hobo had already filled the void.

Growing up together A few years passed, each of us existing only for the other. Then, junior high school came, bringing with it new friends.

I didn’t take Hobo to the school grounds as often, but we spent many hours together while I talked on the phone. I would stretch the phone cord from the kitchen into the garage where Hobo was waiting. She loved the phone as much as I did, for while it meant gossiping for me, it meant grooming for her.

She’d stand still as I chatted and ran the slicker brush over her soft, white coat.

She heard about my first crush and the inevitable heartbreak that followed.

She heard about my grades and what my friends were wearing to school next day.

She remained my steadfast confidant even though my phone buddies came and went.

Things changed when I entered

animal passages high school. Boyfriends, football games, and clothes all took priority over the modest needs of my dog. Luckily, Hobo wasn’t lonely. She had found a new partner in Ed, my stepfather, who happily took her under his wing. Like me, Ed was dog-besotted, and for that I was thankful. He accomplished what I could not: overruled my mother and made Hobo a bona fide house dog. I remember leaving on weekend evenings to catch a movie with friends and seeing Hobo stretched out on my mother’s bed (much to my mother’s chagrin), enjoying the warmth of the electric blanket Ed turned on for her comfort. I was glad to see she was adored.

High school came to an end, and was followed by college. The university was local, so I continued to live at home, but I was busy with new responsibilities. I carried a full load at school and worked part-time as a bank teller. My time was limited, but somehow I found enough for Hobo. When she was eleven, I took her to the beach for the first time in her life; it was something I had always wanted to do with her. Being a beagle mix, she was mildly amused with the surf; however, her blood and bones told her exactly what to do with the sand. She ran and dug and rolled with an enthusiasm that belied her age. I had just as much fun watching her. It reminded me of our earlier times together.

In my final months of school, I secured an internship that led to a full-time position on graduation. I was 23 now, and my life was moving in a different direction from that of my now-old friend.

Even so, we were still together. She’d sleep during the day while I was at work.

In the evening, we’d eat dinner, watch TV, then go to bed. The routine, if a bit dull for this human, was satisfying and predictable to Hobo.

Preparing to part By now, Hobo was showing her age.

Her brown patches had long since faded to gray and her expressive eyes, though still soulful, had become cloudy.

She slept more and her movements were stiff. Usually an independent dog, she became needy.

Sometimes she paced endlessly around the house. She would come into a room and then look around as if to say, “Now, what did I come in here for?” She’d walk away, then return, repeating the sequence again and again. All this I took for normal signs of aging; however, I started to worry when I noticed her drinking water excessively. She began having frequent accidents around the house. I took her to the vet, who confirmed she was sick. I knew my time with her was limited.

My best friend succumbed to kidney failure six short months after our vet visit. Looking back, that final day seems vague and shapeless. I remember little of it. Instead, I remember 14 wonderful years with my childhood dog. Through all my growing pains, I had Hobo’s constant companionship, regardless of the friends and family who moved in and out of my life. Isn’t that a dog’s promise to her human? I, too, kept my youthful promise. Unlike the unfortunate dog in my childhood book, Hobo never had to live up to her name.

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79

Much ado about

Lyme disease Andy Lopez

W

We’re heard a lot about Lyme disease in recent years, and the devastating effects it can have on those inflicted with it.

This insidious illness, often called “the great imitator” because of its similarity to many other conditions, including arthritis and heart disease, can also infect our companion animals, including dogs and, more rarely, cats.

What is it?

Lyme disease gets its name from a small town in Connecticut where it was first recognized in 1989, although studies have indicated that it has actually been around for centuries. It is carried by the black legged tick, more commonly known as the deer tick, since deer are one of the main carriers.

Its detection is very difficult and not widely a c k n ow l e d ge d by professionals.

Even the doctors don’t agree as to what constitutes Lyme disease, since it mirrors a wide variety of other conditions and problems. In animals, symptoms can include everything

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from painful lameness and stiffness to fever, depression, and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, the heart, kidneys and nervous system can also become affected. Current treatment for both people and animals involves long periods of antibiotics, a controversial approach since it can lead to the overuse of these medications in human and animal populations as a whole.

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

Prevention is the best approach Tick season usually occurs right after the first spring rains when the earth is warm at night. It can last through the summer and into the fall. The best way to prevent Lyme disease in yourself or your animal is to take the following protective steps.

1.

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

prevent ticks from climbing playing in, but avoid up your pant legs. It’s contact with skin also a good idea and eyes. to wear light-colHerbal flea collars: ored clothing, as avoid the chemdarker hues are ical variety!

Although antibiotics are commonly prescribed more attractive to treat Lyme disease, there are other approaches. to ticks. After 3.

“We often use homeopathy for treating Lyme,” says a walk, thorPlant pepperDr. Newkirk. “Using Ledum 1M potency three times oughly check mint around a day for three days seems to help, as does yourself and your garden another homeopathic combo remedy called your dog for or lawns. It Lym D. I will also do a treatment with any ticks. will help repel NAET to improve the body’s immune ticks from your response to the organism.”

2. yard. Peppermint Use natural repellents is easy to grow and to keep ticks off yourself spreads quickly. and your dog.

Natural castile peppermint soap: wash your 4. clothing in it, or spritz your clothes Eat garlic during camping or hiking and your dog’s coat with a water-based trips, or while doing outside work. solution (five tablespoons of soap per This is another effective way to keep quart of water). The peppermint will ticks from attaching themselves to you. repel the ticks and will remain effective Feeding your dog garlic will protect for a few hours. him as well. You can also put a small Citronella oil: add two drops to a quart of piece in your shoe before you go outside water and use the same way. to work or hike. The garlic will be Garden grade diatomaceous earth (DE): add absorbed by your body and given off one tablespoon to a quart of water and through your pores, effectively repelling spray on. You can also dust it on your ticks and fleas. (Of course you may clothes or your dog’s coat. This will kill also repel your friends and fellow hikers, and repel ticks for a short period of but they’ll get used to it!) Planting time. One handful of DE is enough for a garlic around your property will also dog. Start at the top of his neck, behind work in the long run as an effective his head, and thoroughly dust his coat. tick repellent. Brewers yeast is another Avoid getting it into his eyes. Allow it to effective food supplement you can use stay on dog as it will not harm him. for yourself and your animals as an Pure pyrethrum powder: use as a dust on effective tick repellent. your clothes or your dog’s coat.

Natural soaps with added essential oils: You 5. can bathe in them, wash your clothes in Strengthen your immune system. Lyme them, and also wash your hair, allowing disease is a reflection of weakening the foam to sit for a few minutes. Dogs immunity. All living beings are being will also love this. Take a bottle of attacked by the chemicals in our envipeppermint soap with you whenever ronment, and are breaking down in you go camping or hiking, along with a their ability to fight off diseases. At the sprayer. By adding water and soap to the same time, pests like ticks are becoming bottle, you can mist yourself and your immune to the chemicals designed to kill dog as well as your camping area. Garden them. By strengthening your immune grade DE can be added to the soap to system, and your companion’s, you increase its long term effectiveness. can go a long way towards protecting Citra Solve: another effective tick repellent. yourselves from Lyme disease. The Use one tablespoon per quart of water. best way to do this is for both of you Spray the areas you are working or to eat pure food and drink pure water,

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What about the Lyme vaccine?

breathe pure air, and reduce the stress in your lives.

The first vaccine to help prevent Lyme disease in humans was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in 1998, although even the FDA stresses that it is not completely effective and shouldn’t be used in place of proper preventive measures. A similar controversy surrounds the canine vaccine, although Dr. Mark Newkirk, who operates a veterinary practice in Margate, New Jersey, stresses that “since the advent of the Lyme vaccine, the incidence of Lyme disease is down.”

What if a tick bites you or your animal?

If you find a tick on yourself or your companion, proper removal is crucial, since leaving the head imbedded in the flesh will cause infection and increase the possibility of getting Lyme disease. Using the As with any other vaccine, there is the danger of side effects. proper tweezers is However, Dr. Newkirk points out that he sees more reactions important. Try Uncle from the rabies vaccine than for Lyme disease. “It’s difficult to Bills Sliver Gripper overvaccinate with Lyme, since immunity doesn’t last as it does or his Tick Removal with rabies or distemper,” he adds. “We can also use Lyme Kit, which comes with nosode to ‘vaccinate’ with, although there’s no 20-million tweezers, a magnifying dollar study to prove it works.” lens, alcohol wipes, two plastic bags for So, should you have Rover vaccinated or not? The best keeping the suspected approach is to find out how much of a risk Lyme disease tick for later identification, is in your region. If it’s minimal, you’re probably better and a tick identification off not having him vaccinated; if the risk is high, card. If you’re in any doubt however –as it is in the northeastern U.S., where about whether or not you have the majority of cases occur – it may be removed the whole tick, see a something you need to consider. doctor or vet as soon as possible.

Applying hot goldenseal tea directly to

the infected area will help it heal faster.

Vitamin C will also reduce infection and increase a return to health. An echinacea and goldenseal mixture taken internally will help fight off any infection or disease, while vitamin E taken internally and applied to the bite will also reduce infection and the chances of getting Lyme disease.

There’s no doubt that Lyme disease is a serious issue, but it’s not the cause for panic that many people think it is.

Combining common sense prevention with a healthy, natural, organic lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of illness – and your furry friend’s.

Andy Lopez, also known as The Invisible Gardener, has a degree in Horticulture from the University of Florida and has been specializing in organic gardening for many years. He has written several books, including The Organic Growers' Manual and Natural Pest Control: Alternative to Chemicals for the Home and Garden. His radio show, Don't Panic It's Organic, airs on CRNI.NET every Saturday at 10am PST. For more information on natural pest control, visit www.invisiblegardener.com.

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animal wellness

To your credit

There are all kinds of ways you can show your support for animal welfare issues. If you’re a Canadian resident, one great option is to apply for an Affinity Mosaik MasterCard, offered exclusively from BMO Bank of Montreal. Every time you use the card to make a purchase, a payment is made to help support either the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or the World Society for the Protection of Animals, at no additional cost to you. www.bmo.com/mosaik/ospca or www.bmo.com/mosaik/wspa

Have a biscuit

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Formulated following the Heart Association’s guidelines for healthy human eating, these biscuits are the ultimate in wellness treats and contain natural peanut butter as well as rice flour, applesauce, oatmeal and blackberry jelly. They’re also preserved with natural vitamin E. www.blissfulbiscuits.com

The cat’s meow

Here’s something that will have Fluffy licking her lips and asking for seconds. Wild Kitty Cat Food has recently introduced a new line of raw frozen cat diets.

Made from all-natural chicken, duck and turkey, as well as wild albacore tuna, clams and conch, the diets also contain organic spinach, peas, carrots, beets, apples, and other fresh vegetables and fruits. Wild Kitty Cat Food is available in four nutritious and delicious flavors. www.wildkittycatfood.com

Good gravy

Why shouldn’t dogs have gravy just like people do? New from Fromm Four Star Nutritionals, and available from Tri-Natural Products, is Chicken a la Veg Gravy, a gourmet gravy also containing high-quality chicken, pasta, peas and carrots for a rich and nutritious embellishment to your best friend’s dinner. There are no fillers, by-products or additives, so it’s healthy as well as savory. Just open the can, pour the gravy over your dog’s food, and watch him enjoy. www.trinatural.com or www.frommfamily.com animal wellness

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animal communication

now.

The importance

of the Why learning to meditate can help animals

meditate

by Sharon Callahan

Have you ever wondered why so many animals seem to suffer from anxiety, fear, depression and nervousness these days? In many cases, it’s a reflection of our own state of consciousness. Reflected stress in animals can manifest as decreased or increased appetite, separation anxiety, destructive behavior, obsessive grooming, aggression, hyperactivity and a host of physical ills from skin disorders to cancer – all increasingly common problems.

On a global level, humanity is becoming more anxious and fearful and thus more aggressive and separatist in its pursuit of safety and happiness. Wild animal populations reflect this collective state of consciousness. We see increasing evidence of wild animals becoming disoriented, stressed and diseased in response to the insensitivity of a species that exploits the world for its own needs, forgetting that every living creature is sacred and has a right to life just like them.

At first glance, all this seems like just another bummer to add to our already busy and stressed lives.

But it holds within it the greatest of gifts – the gift of awakening from the dream of separation.

Animals are intimately attuned to subtle energies We cannot hide things from animals. They reflect our mental and emotional states and bring our attention to the very things that block us from our truest desire – a rich and meaningful life filled with love, joy and a profound sense of peace. They point out to us the areas of our souls and psyches that need attention; they call us away from our fears and phobias, out of our heads and into our hearts.

We can reap these benefits and serve animals in return by giving our full attention to the present moment. Why? Because it is only in the present that we truly live, and it is only from the present that we can begin to transform ourselves and the world.

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animal communication What is meditation and why is it so good?

Imagine waking up in the morning with a sense of your own divinity as well as the divinity in everything you see and everyone you meet. Imagine having the courage to look upon each life situation with calmness and unwavering strength, seeing challenges where there were once problems. Imagine having the certainty that a divine presence is working through you. Such a world is not fantasy. It is available to us through the practice of meditation.

Meditation can be broadly defined as any activity that keeps the attention peacefully anchored in the present rather than swaying from the past to the future and back again, a major cause of chronic stress known to impact health and well being.

If you watch an elephant walking, you will see it sways its trunk to and fro. Our minds are like the elephant’s trunk – swinging back and forth between past and present, good and bad.

If you give the elephant a log to hold it will stop swaying its trunk. This is what meditation practice does. It gives the mind something to focus on so that it becomes peaceful and steady, no longer swaying from past to future.

• Meditation practice teaches us to be aware of our thoughts and how we get carried away with them.

• We become a witness of our own thinking process, learn to bring it under control, and eventually attain a state of peace, oneness and joy.

• Meditation benefits body, mind, emotions and spirit and has been recommended by every major spiritual master throughout history.

A meditation on oneness

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Sit very quietly with eyes closed. Take a deep breath, imagining that you are breathing in golden light.

Breathing in, imagine you are filling every particle of your being with divine light – your heart, mind and all the cells and atoms of your body.

Next, imagine you are breathing in the light for every person on the earth. Allow the light to fill their hearts, minds, cells and atoms. As you breathe out, imagine all the people of earth breathing out divine healing light.

Imagine you are your animal companion. As you breathe in, you fill every particle of her being with divine light – her heart, mind, cells and atoms. As you breathe out, imagine her breath combining with the breath of all people on earth.

Breathing in, imagine that you are filling all animals of all species with divine light.

Imagine the breath of divine light restoring their hearts, minds and bodies and that their combined breath connects all animals and people on earth.

From this sacred space of connection, imagine the combined light of all beings radiating out and encompassing the plant and mineral kingdoms, penetrating deeply into the earth, touching her core and restoring her.

From the core of the earth’s restored heart, imagine that she radiates divine light deep into space, connecting with and illuminating the stars, planets, galaxies and solar systems and all the beings that reside there.

On an in-breath, feel the loving, healing light of all beings and things in the universe returning to you and filling your heart, mind and body with divine light.

On an out-breath, send back the healing light to all beings in all universes.

Continue breathing in and out in this manner for as long as comfortable.

As you finish, imagine one pulsing heart light – the one light that illuminates all beings.

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animal communication If meditation is so great, why don’t more people do it?

Different kinds of meditation practice

The general public holds a number of misconceptions about meditation, the first being that they think it’s difficult and time consuming, or even a superhuman accomplishment. Other people think that people who meditate have to retreat from the world, wear robes, or belong to weird cults. None of this could be further from the truth. Meditation can be done anywhere by anyone. In fact, it is our natural state of being – a state of complete absorption in the joy of the present.

• Centering prayer is probably the best known form of meditation in the West. It involves stilling the mind by focusing on a prayer or passage from a sacred text.

The present moment is a place of deep, aware stillness where you can feel at one with Spirit/Being/God. From birth, however, we are conditioned to name and classify and separate everything, thus losing our sense of oneness with everyone and everything, as well as our connection with the universal intelligence only available to us in the Now. Our minds take over, becoming increasingly busy with the illusions of past and future and further separating us from the beauty of the present moment. Most of us need to retrain ourselves to still our minds and settle deeply into the moment without judging or critiquing it.

• With active meditations such as yoga, sacred dance and walking, the activity itself becomes the mind’s calming focus.

• Other forms of meditation involve controlling the body and attention through focus on an object or sound.

• In Zen meditation, the environment is kept very simple and free of stimulating influences.

It can be useful to explore several of these methods. But for most of us, just going about one’s daily activities mindfully is likely the most integrative approach.

How do I start?

1. Treat yourself to a half hour of sacred contemplation early in the morning before your day begins. Read a passage from a scripture of your choosing or a passage

The Power of Meow – A Cat’s Eye View of Meditation

by Lily • All beings come to earth to serve one another in joy… humans just forget.

• Getting is transient and only exists in linear time.

• Giving brings joy, peace and transcendence.

• Everything we need we have right now.

• Everything that happens is a gift. Life is just trying to teach us what we need to learn.

• The only enemy is fear.

• Death…the biggest human fear… is just a doorway into another now. Don’t be afraid.

When the moment comes, you’ll do just fine.

• When you’ve had a bad day and all else fails…

Stretch out in the sun and take a nap

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animal wellness

animal communication from an inspirational book. (You may feel that getting up earlier than you already do will simply add to your tiredness at the end of the day, but you’ll soon see that starting the morning off on the right foot creates more spaciousness in your day.)

2.

Sit quietly, resting your attention in your heart center and allowing the words of inspiration to settle in your heart, comforting and calming you.

3.

Go about the day’s activities, but take a break each hour throughout the day to close your eyes and re-center in the present. It only takes a moment and no one will be any the wiser. These periods of re-centering will enable you to move back into a state of activity while remaining increasingly anchored in the now. Over time, you’ll learn to be a witness to your thoughts and will notice when they start to sweep you away into the past or future. You’ll find that when you center yourself in the moment and let your mind rest, there are no problems.

In his best selling book, The Power of Now (New World Library, 1999), Eckhart Tolle says: “Make it your practice to withdraw attention from past and future whenever they are not needed. Step out of the time dimension as much as possible in everyday life. The more you are focused on time… past and future…the more you miss the Now, the most precious thing there is.”

Tolle reminds us over and over that in the Now, there are no problems. Each time you become anxious and find your thoughts straying to the past or future, take a few mindful breaths and ask yourself: “Do I have everything I need in the moment?” The answer will always be yes.

meditation, we automatically experience connectedness. We are gentler and more loving with ourselves, and our animal companions begin to mirror our growing peacefulness. Eventually, behavior challenges evaporate and health and balance are restored.

On a more global scale, meditation creates a foundation of peace through connectedness. If person or country A attacks person or country B, it is only because he believes he is separate from them. If society attacks and destroys nature, it is only because it believes itself to be separate from nature. But when we meditate, we perceive our connection with every other living being, and harming another becomes harming ourselves. In meditation we find peace, silence, clarity of thought, and love for others. Each moment of connectedness sends ripples out through the lives and souls of every living being on the planet. This is how important meditation is.

You can transform your life through meditation. Your animal companions will help you. As Tolle says: “I have lived with several Zen masters – all of them cats.” By practicing meditation, being in the now, you will find yourself becoming increasingly healthy in body and mind, and your animal friends will mirror back to you a peaceful, healthy presence and quiet joy. When you see this reflection, you will know you are on the right track.

Sharon Callahan is a world-renowned

How can meditation benefit animals and the earth?

Meditation dissolves cruelty on every level. Cruelty comes from the false belief that we are separate. As we practice

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BOOKreviews Title:

Animal Reiki

Author:

Elizabeth Fulton and Kathleen Prasad

Reiki, a Japanese word that translates to “universal life energy,” is a subtle, profound, noninvasive healing technique that is just as effective for animals as it is for people. You can learn how to bring the many benefits of this ancient form of energy work to your own companions in Animal Reiki: Using Energy to Heal the Animals in Your Life. Written by Reiki masters Elizabeth Fulton and Kathleen Prasad, this new book gives you a complete and comprehensive introduction to Reiki, with step-by-step instructions and photos that show you this ancient healing technique in action.

You’ll read first-hand accounts of how Reiki has helped heal the many animals the authors have worked with. As well, you’ll learn how your animal can become a participant in the healing process, helping to deepen the bond between you and enhancing your intuition and powers of inter-species communication. Truly an interactive technique, Reiki can improve your own health and happiness as well as your best friend’s.

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animal wellness

Title:

Tails of Devotion

Author:

Emily Scott Pottruck

“If you and your animal could communicate via paper, what would you say to each other?” It’s what author Emily Scott Pottruck asked 58 San Franciscan families who share their homes and hearts with beloved animal companions, from cats and dogs to rabbits and birds. The results are compiled in Tails of Devotion – A Look at the Bond Between People and Their Pets, a delightful pictorial celebration of the love and joy animals bring to our lives.

Filled with beautiful black and white photographs of people and their animals, including wellknown names such as actor Robin Williams and author Amy Tan, the book features handwritten stories by adults and children about their companions. Poignant, imaginative and often whimsically humorous, some of the stories are tributes to the happiness animals have brought to their lives, while others are tales of what their companions might say if they could speak.

To further help animals, all the proceeds from Tails of Devotion go to several animal welfare organizations, including The San Francisco SPCA, PAWS (Pets are Wonderful Support), and Pets Unlimited, a non-profit veterinary hospital and shelter.

Publisher: tailsofdevotion.com

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Some things are meant to be, which certainly seems the case with Michael and Margaret Korda, two authors from opposite sides of the Atlantic whose love of cats helped bring them together. In their new book, Cat People, the couple takes an entertaining look at cat lovers and their feline friends, and the lengths to which people often go to secure and ensure the affection and happiness of their kitty companions.

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From temperamental Mrs. Bumble, to Chutney, an orange and white “pacifist cat” so gentle he wouldn’t even sharpen his claws on the furniture, you’ll find profiles of the many unique feline characters who have shared in the Kordas’ lives over the years. You’ll also read about Susan and Jeff Lynn, who turned their 1700s farmhouse into a shelter for abandoned cats, gourmet Lelia Livingston, who took her feline, Cleopatra, along when she went to Paris to attend cooking school, and many other devoted cat people.

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Title:

Kids & Dogs

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Ruth Weston and Dr. Catriona Ross

“Can we get a dog?” It’s a question nearly every parent hears at one time or another. A dog can greatly enrich your child’s life, but there are things you need to know before making the decision to adopt a canine companion for your youngster. Co-written by a positive dog trainer and a psychologist, Kids & Dogs: Teaching them to Live, Play and Learn Together helps children learn how to behave around dogs and train them to be friendly and obedient.

The book helps you determine if your family is ready for a dog, and provide tips on choosing the right one for your child. There are chapters on reading canine body language, socializing a new dog, and helping your child through the grieving process when a beloved animal dies.

The next section contains 13 comprehensive training lessons, from teaching dogs to sit, heel and come when called, to simple tricks like fetching, rolling over and shaking hands.

Though written for parents, Kids & Dogs is a family guide to integrating and training a new dog or puppy, and ensuring that he or she becomes a faithful and loving companion for your child.

Publisher: Allen & Unwin animal wellness

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w w w. l o s t p e t d e t e c t i o n . c o m

Available: Gift Certificates, Groups, Lectures, Ranch Calls & Phone Consulations

DYANNA McCAIN, DVET HOM Holistic Animal Healing Nutritionist & Animal Homeopath “Great Life” Pet Food & Products

Phone: 310-863-2300 Fax: 661-822-8620 Email: parislivery@dslextreme.com

The Original Shock Absorbing Leash System.

Designed in Australia over 10 years ago, Now in the USA! • Neoprene Collars • Harnesses • Fold-a-bowls • Frisbees • Doo Bags Australian OAKWOOD Pet Products • Anti-Tangle Spray • Deodorant • Shampoo • Conditioner SUPPLYING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

760-275-3752

The Legacy of Love Calling for stories!

Inspirational book under development on animal transition/passages.

Topics include: • Gifts of love shared • Transition experiences • Revelations & epiphanies • Nurturing through the process of dying • Rites/ceremonies used in crossing over • Grieving and loving again

Contact:

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www.DonnaStrong.com

www.doggystuff4u.com

california

YOU CAN HELP! DONATE / FOSTER /ADOPT

Visit our website today to see the many ways you can help abused, abandoned or unwanted Labrador Retrievers in the Central Valley.

A Home for Your Lab, A Lab for Your Home

Central California Labrador Retriever Rescue

www.cc-labrescue.org

I C PawsAbilities with The Tellington TTouch Method

A gentle approach to influencing your animal companionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavior, health and performance.

Cynde Van Vleet

Guild Certified TTouch Practitioner

PHONE: (949) 492-1924 www.icpaws.com

To advertise in Ad Spots call 1-866-764-1212

California Coastal Horse Rescue

Second Chance For Rabbits An all volunteer non-profit corporation

Shelter and Adoption Services PO Box 1646 Oak View, CA 93022

805-649-1090

www.calcoastalhorserescue.com

P.O. box 59022 Norwalk, CA 90650 (562) 807-0071 (818) 903-2382 secondchance@bigfoot.com www.secondchanceforrabbits.org

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EVENTS CALENDAR March 19, 2006 – Los Angeles, CA

April 28-30, 2006 – Grafton, WI

May 13-14, 2006 – Kitchener, ON

Run for the Life of a Dog – LA Marathon Join TEAM ROVER RESCUE as we run/walk the 2006 Los Angeles Marathon! Support ROVER RESCUE (an official charity of the LA Marathon) – rescuing homeless dogs from LA County Shelters and placing them in loving homes. We provide complete fundraising packet to help you achieve your goals!

Danni Dean • 310-379-0154 mail@roverrescue.com • www.roverrescue.com

Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on teaching massage techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Prerequisite to the Evaluation & Ethics class. Limited to eight participants.

Linda J. Strewlow, Blue Sky Educational 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

Animal Communication, Level 3 With internationally recognized communicator/teacher Barbara Janelle, M.A. Continue the journey into the wonderful

May 2-June 20, 2006 – Milwaukee, WI

May 19-21, 2006 – Grafton, WI

Small Animal Anatomy Tuesday evenings 7-10pm (eight weeks) This class includes an overview of all body systems and an indepth examination of canine and feline skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology along with basic first-aid/CPR and emergency acupressure for shock and trauma.

Companion AnimalTouch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

Small Animal Anatomy This class includes an overview of all body systems and an indepth examination of canine and feline skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology along with basic first-aid/CPR and emergency acupressure for shock and trauma.

Linda J Strewlow, Blue Sky Edu 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

April 1-3, 2006 – West Chicago, IL Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on teaching massage techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Prerequisite to the Evaluation & Ethics class. Limited to eight participants.

Companion Animal Touch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

April 7-9, 2006 – Edmonton, AB April 21-23, 2006 – Calgary, AB May 5-7, 2006 – Saskatoon, SK The Body Soul & Spirit Expo The Body Soul & Spirit is Canada’s premier Holistic Lifestyle Expo, and showcases products services and resources that foster the individual quest for wholeness & self-understanding, and featuring a diverse range of participants from major industry manufactures, to smaller groups, organizations, and individuals. The event includes holistic Veterinarians, acupunture for animals, natural suppliements and foods for pets, and much more along with many other exhibits, lectures and workshops for their humans as well!

Edmonton Alberta, Calgary Alberta, Saskatoon Saskatchewan Chandler Armstrong • 1-877-560-6830 info@bodysoulspiritexpo.com • www.bodysoulspiritexpo.com

April 7-9, 2006 – Grafton, WI Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on teaching massage techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Prerequisite to the Evaluation & Ethics class. Limited to eight participants.

Linda J. Strewlow, Blue Sky Educational 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

April 22-24, 2006 – West Chicago, IL Small Animal Anatomy This class includes an overview of all body systems and an indepth examination of canine and feline skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology along with basic first-aid/CPR and emergency acupressure for shock and trauma.

Companion Animal Touch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

May 3-June 21, 2006 – LaGrange, IL Small Animal Anatomy Wednesday evenings 7-10pm (eight weeks) This class includes an overview of all body systems and an in-depth examination of canine and feline skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology along with basic first-aid/ CPR and emergency acupressure for shock and trauma.

Companion Animal Touch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

May 6-8, 2006 – West Chicago, IL

Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class examines evaluation of animals as candidates for massage and also as athletes; it includes instruction in sports massage along with business and ethical issues for practitioners and a visit to a shelter to work with animals there.

Limited to twenty participants.

Companion Animal Touch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

June 9-11, 2006 – Grafton, WI Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class examines evaluation of animals as candidates for massage and also as athletes; it includes instruction in sports massage along with business and ethical issues for practitioners and a visit to a shelter to work with animals there.

Limited to twenty participants.

Linda J Strewlow, Blue Sky Edu 262-692-9500 registrar@blueskyedu.org companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

May 13, 2006 – Waltham, MA

June 23-25 2006 – Mississauga, ON

Holistic Body and Mind Encounter: A Seminar for Dog Lovers Held at Bentley College. Sponsored by Especially for Pets and Nature’s Variety. A fundraiser for MSPCA (Massachusetts Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Seminar features Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer as key note speaker and Robert Silver, D.V.M. presenting “It’s All About Variety : A Holistic View of Pet Nutrition.” www.especiallyforpets.com

Ferret Aid 2006 Join ferret lovers and experts from around the world! Topics include; complementary/holistic medicine, ferrets as therapy pets, surgical techniques, nutrition and more. Speakers include Ann Martin author “Food Pets Die For”, Dr. Karen Purcell author “Ferrets; a guide for Practitioners”, Dr. Mike Garner, Dr. Deni Lyn Parker of the TV show “Campus Vets” Dr. June McNicolas, Scottish medical psychologist and more! Open to ferret lovers and veterinarians. CE credits provided for 13.5 hours to both American and Canadian veterinarians and American Techs.

Randy Belair • 416-251-4333 randy@ferretaid.org • www.ferretaid.org

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events animal wellness

June 3-5, 2006 – West Chicago, IL

Introduction to Small Animal Massage This class is focused on teaching massage techniques used with animals and an approach to getting the animals to work cooperatively with the practitioner. Prerequisite to the Evaluation & Ethics class. Limited to eight participants.

Companion AnimalTouch & Therapies 847-782-1963 classes@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com

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world of telepathic animal communication. Deepen your ability to understand other species, work with problem solving and much more.

Sue Becker • 519-896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net • www.barbarajanelle.com

classifieds Alternative Therapies THE CRANIO CONNECTION – Offering Craniosacral Therapy and the Tellington TTouch Method for horses and companion animals, to help your animal achieve optimal health through physical and emotional balance. Tracy Vroom, www.cranioconnection.com, info@cranioconnection.com (917) 913-1676.

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

CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide. Share your Love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults (315) 329-0116 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 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.

WONDERING WHAT YOUR ANIMAL IS THINKING or feeling, experiencing behaviour or emotional problems with them? Have concerns about their death or dying? To request a telepathic communication go to www.komfortkonnections.com.

PATRICE RYAN, ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR & INTUITIVE HEALER – Featured Television Appearances and Magazine Articles. Open the communication between you and your pet.

Telephone Readings and House Calls.

(818) 241-2624 www.celestialcrystals.com

Animal Health HERBS OF THE WORLD – Natural Products for pets: Highest Quality Herbal support – aging, tumours, nerves, digestion, respiratory, hair, coat, Preventative Health. (208) 756-1641 WWW.PETHERBALIST.COM NORTHWEST NATURALS – NATURE’S FARMACY – Formulated for Mutts & Men, nags & hags and YOU too! Zero artificial ingredients, herbal extracts, immune support, biomagnetics, anti-viral, deodorants, spritzes, salves, shampoo.

Restore your health naturally. Profits support animal rescue. www.north-west-naturals.com To People Who Want To Strengthen Their Pets’ Immune System By 437% – But Can’t Get Started Contact: Ilias Koné (514) 631-9193 after 6.00PM EST or email iliaskone@look.ca HAPPY PET PRODUCTS – All natural food and supplements for cats and dogs. High in minerals and Chlorophyll. Promotes shiny coat and deodorizes. Promoting healthy, quality pet products. www.petluv.net (800) 690-1866.

SOUL MATES – Offering animal homeopathy, Reiki, Bach Flower essences, animal communication helping acute, chronic, emotional and behavioural issues. Private sessions, workshops, phone consultations. Debbie Betts, (905) 689-5757, gbetts@cogeco.ca, or http://home.cogeco.ca/~gbetts/ all-natural DOG skin care Product – Jake’s Remedy – The MIRACLE SPRAY! Heals Hotspots, Dermatitis, Abrasions and more.

Promotes Hair Growth. Also carry skin care products for CATS & HORSES. (877) 973-8848, FrogWorks@att.net WWW.FFROGWORKS.COM.

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.

(800) 903-9350 www.IAAMB.org

Business Opportunity DEALERS WANTED – Can be home-based.

Earn income selling THE ALL NATURAL ELECTROLYTE DRINK!.... for dogs. Consumable – repeat business. Perfect business for Breeders, Handlers, Trainers, Kennels, Pet Sitters, Groomers, Vet Clinics, Rescue Groups, K9 Sports Clubs, Traveling Vendors, etc. Sell direct to people you know, your peers and at dog events.

Income limited only by the time you want to devote to the business. Serious inquiries.... call (866) 493-7634 or email to HydroDog2@aol.com.

PET CONSULTANTS WANTED – Looking for people who are passionate about pets, work from home, host Pupper’ware Parties, make your own hours, be your own boss, ground floor opportunity. www.mypetparty.com nina@mypetparty.com or (862) 368 5296 PET LOVERS WANTED – Earn a FT Income w/PT effort introducing unique pet care line to pet professionals/stores/pet owners. Full training and support. Free details. Call Michelle at (866) 827-8614. www.oxyfreshww.com/michelle/

Collectibles WORLD’S LARGEST SELECTION OF FIGURINES, jewelry, artwork and other dog gifts and collectibles in your breed. Selection changes daily. www.dogcollectibles.com (365) Boston Post Rd, #241, Sudbury, MA 01776 (978) 443-8387

Flea Control EarthSafe Yard Treatment – Get rid of the fleas in your backyard with a safe product that can be sprayed on grass & bushes. Check out our other Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products at www.earthsafe.net or call us at (310) 352-6999

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 Breeders

Nutrition

CRYSTAL POND – CFA shown Persians in BiColor & Himalayan. Very clean, few breedings. PKD Neg. Distinguished bloodlines. Raised Naturally using species appropriate diet, Herbals and Homeopathy for optimal health. http://calicogypsy-ivil.tripod.com

PREMIUM HEALTH FOOD FOR DOGS AND CATS – Delivered fresh to your door. Check out our autoship program and SAVE! Business Opportunity Available.http://www.foods4dogs.com Margaret Ropp – Independent Distributor of HealthyPetNet™ products

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, Pet Massage, Physio and Rehab Therapy. Phone consultations available. (519) 776-7325 Essex ON. essexanimalclinic@cogeco.net www.essexanimalclinic.com 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.holistic-vet.ca 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 DR. DEE BLANCO, LOS ANIMALES HOLISTIC VETERINARY CARE – Nutrition and Vaccination Consultations. Telephone conference call format with written hand-outs. Discussions include 6 common nutritional errors, how to build a species appropriate raw food diet; health benefits of a natural diet; the basics of vaccinology; balancing disease verses vaccine risk; the use of homeopathic nosodes; and legal requirements and much, much more. (505) 986-3434. drdeeblanco.com

GRAND ADVENTURES RANCH – We offer the finest holistic nutritional supplements. Learn simple ways to keep animals healthy, eliminate vet bills, and make a great living doing the same thing! Contact national bio-nutritional consultant Kay Aubrey-Chimene at (800) 797-8274 or www.grandadventuresranch.com.

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

Portraits of any pet of your choice, people with pets also. Credit card, personal check or money order. 44 Church St., Tilton, NH 03276.

(603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.com

Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & 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 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.

PETMASSAGETM helps dogs create balanced “inner environments”. Learn how. Workshops/ Home Study Courses New Children’s DVD’s, teach doggie massage, canine body language, safety. (800) 779-1001 www.petmassage.com BECOME A PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER – Hands on, intensive training courses.

McMahon’s Dog Training Academy. Established 21 years. Make your passion your profession.

Day or evening classes. (905) 358-4515 www.mcmahondogtraining.com K9mcmahon@aol.com ANIMAL MASSAGE PROGRAM – Home study option, Herbal and Aromatherapy Workshops, Pet First Aid. Comprehensive training for horse and dog lovers by licensed professionals in an enthusiastic, supportive educational environment. CEUs available.

Treetops – (705) 435-6174 www.treetops.on.ca

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

ENJOY BEAUTIFUL SEABROOK ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA – Only thirty minutes to historic Charleston. Dog-friendly villas and homes available on private resort island. Beach, pools, golf, tennis, equestrian center. Seabrook Exclusives (888) 718-7949 http://www.seabrookexclusives.com/pet_friendly.html http://www.seabrookexclusives.com/

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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Animal Wellness Magazine Volume 8 Issue 2

display and ad spot advertisers

quick reference guide to our advertisers 4Pets Inc. ................................................................................90 Ad Mark Com/Wild Kitty Cat Food .......................................92 Advanced Vapor Technologies .............................................48 American Anti-Vivisection Society .......................................23 American BioSciences Inc. ....................................................14 American College of Applied Science ..................................96 Amixx Pets ..............................................................................92 Amore Pet Foods ....................................................................17 Anaflora ...................................................................................96 Animal Amulets .......................................................................10 Animal Energy ........................................................................92 Animal Land Pet Movers .......................................................99 Animal Lights ..........................................................................95 Animal Lovers Pet Shop ......................................................100 Animals Plus LLC/Anxiety Wrap ..........................................42 Ark Naturals ..............................................................................5 Art By Mel ...............................................................................98 Assisi International Animal Institute ....................................43 Azmira Holistic Animal Care .................................................30 Bancroft School of Massage Therapy ..................................96 Barf Direct.com ................................................................70, 99 Bark Avenue ...........................................................................67 Blissful Biscuits ......................................................................92 Blue Ridge Bones ...................................................................46 Bonnie Blumenfeld, RVT ........................................................96 Botanical Dog .........................................................................93 Bowowow & Dogma ..............................................................97 BRAVO! ...................................................................................54 Breeder’s Choice ......................................................................3 Buddy Belt ...............................................................................98 Cal Pet Crematory Inc. ...........................................................63 California Coastal Horse Rescue ........................................101 California Veterinary Supply .................................................93 Canadian Animal Rehab Services ........................................96 Carter Craft Ltd. ......................................................................98 Centurion .................................................................................94 City Cats Biz ............................................................................24 CIZL International ...................................................................90 Cleanlife Technologies ...........................................................67 Cordial Canines ......................................................................62 Country Pet Foods ..................................................................29 Creative Pet Supply .......................................................24, 101 Cycles of Life ...........................................................................15 D3 Pet Productions .................................................................91 Dan Irvin Photography .........................................................101 Dewey’s Wheelchairs For Dogs ............................................95 Diane’s Little Lambs & Raingear ..........................................81 Dinovite Inc. ............................................................................40 Diva Doggie .............................................................................47 Dixie Dig LLC ..........................................................................98 Dog Bed Works .......................................................................27 Dr. Rod Block ........................................................................100 Elemental Acupressure .........................................................97 Energy Therapy ......................................................................95 EnLighthouse, Inc. ..................................................................79 Equatorial Group, Ltd. ...........................................................99 Equissage ...............................................................................89 Essex Cottage Farms ............................................................49 Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co. ..............................................11

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Evolution Diet Pet Food Corp ................................................92 EZ Dog California ..................................................................100 Flea Free ..................................................................................96 Flexi USA .................................................................................56 Floral Spirit ............................................................................100 Four Paws Sleeping ...............................................................94 Fresh Pet Club, Inc. ................................................................98 Gail M Jewell, DVM ................................................................95 Get Serious! Products .............................................................13 Grand Adventures Ranch ......................................................94 Great Life Performance Pet Products....................................16 Gulf Island Dog Biscuit Co. ....................................................89 Happy Pet Products, LLC ......................................................95 Happy Tails Animal Rescue ..................................................94 Healthy Paws Pet Nutrition Centre .......................................93 Healthy Pet Systems ........................................................19, 54 Heart of my Heart Pet Boutique ............................................56 Herbie’s Herbs ........................................................................52 Holistic Animal Healing ........................................................100 Houndstooth ...........................................................................63 Hydro Dog ...............................................................................27 IC Paws Abilities ...................................................................101 Infrared Heat & Massage for Dogs .......................................87 Ingalls Art ................................................................................38 Interdependant Pictures ........................................................48 Invisible Gardener ...................................................................97 Jeffrey’s Pet Food ...................................................................67 K9 Companions ......................................................................91 Kelly-Ann Ridge ......................................................................92 L.A. Faux Grass ......................................................................65 Larz Equipment Inc. ...............................................................43 Lebalab Inc. ............................................................................35 Legacy for Life ........................................................................95 Little Lotus Hearts ..................................................................39 Lost Pet Detection ................................................................100 Lydia Hiby – Animal Communication .................................100 Maia Kincaid Ph.D. .................................................................93 Mandala Riding & Awareness Center ..................................97 Mass Mutual/Michel Financial Group ................................108 Moe Toys .................................................................................93 MVP Laboratories, Inc. ..........................................................46 My Crystal Companion ..........................................................96 National Animal Supplement Council ..................................88 National Dog Day Foundation ...............................................38 Natural Canine ........................................................................94 Nature of the Pet ....................................................................93 Nature’s Variety ......................................................................57 NaturVet ..................................................................................37 New World Library .................................................................60 Next Gen Pet Products ...........................................................99 Nickers International, Ltd. .....................................................72 Northwest Naturals ................................................................21 Northwest School of Animal Massage .................................25 Nu Hemp Products/Kicx ........................................................28 Nutro Products, Inc. ...............................................................83 Only Natural Pet Store ...........................................................33 Oxyfresh ..................................................................................28 Paul’s Pet Food .......................................................................82 Paw Prints Shop .....................................................................98

Pawmax ..................................................................................94 Pawprints Jewelry ..................................................................48 Paws and Claws ...................................................................100 PawSteps ................................................................................54 Pet Heaven ..............................................................................79 Pet Naturals of Vermont .......................................................7, 9 Pet Supply ...............................................................................63 PetGuard .................................................................................34 Petlane ...................................................................................101 Pets & People Home Finders ...............................................101 Pets At Play .............................................................................20 PolyMVA ..................................................................................60 Precious Pets.org ..................................................................100 Primal Pet Foods, Inc. ............................................................23 Prozyme Products Inc. .............................................................2 Psychic Vet ............................................................................101 Robbins Pet Care ....................................................................95 Sea Quest International .........................................................96 Second Chance for Rabbits .................................................101 Silver Eagle Outfitters – Advanced Design & Comm. ........96 SitStay.com ............................................................................20 Sittin’ Pretty Cat Productions ................................................99 Smiling Blue Skies .................................................................94 Soggy Dog Manufacturing ....................................................98 Solid Gold ................................................................................69 Solo Pet Doors ........................................................................47 South Bark Dog Wash ...........................................................67 Spirit Talk Magazine ............................................................100 Splintek, PPInc ................................................................35, 107 Steve’s Real Food, Inc. ..........................................................59 Tail Blazers ..............................................................................93 Tellington TTouch....................................................................97 Terri Steuben ..........................................................................92 The Good Dog Company ........................................................98 The Holistic Horse ..................................................................20 The Honest Kitchen ................................................................30 The Integrated Animal ...........................................................97 The Musical Rainbow ............................................................94 The PetCot Company, Inc. ...................................................101 The Plant Mill Gifts & Garden.com .......................................94 The Urban Carnivore ..............................................................38 The Wholistic Pet ....................................................................43 Timberwolf Organics ..............................................................51 Topanga Pet Resort ...............................................................99 Treetops Rocklyn Limited ......................................................97 Tripett ......................................................................................61 Triple Pet...................................................................................95 Trips with Pets ........................................................................81 Uptown Poochie ......................................................................98 V. Pavel Ltd. ............................................................................42 V-dogfood, LLC .......................................................................60 Vitality Science, Inc./Pet Flora ..............................................52 Water Rover/G4 Ventures, Inc. .............................................41 Wendals Herbs .......................................................................95 Welcome Wagg’n .................................................................101 Well Beings – Senior Cat & Dog Products ...........................93 Whiskers Holistic Pet Products .............................................93 Whole Children/Whole Planet Expo .....................................71

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animal wellness

105

woman’s heart

The way to a woman’s

by Jon Krafchek

I

heart

f I were to write an advice column for shy men on how to meet women, I’d advise them to get a dog.

Dobermans and German shepherds look macho, but they’re intimidating.

On the other hand, a cute canine like a Bichon or Westie, similar to my Cleo, will definitely attract the target audience.

pooch with the white shaggy coat and wiggly black nose, which is often glued to the ground sniffing for food, bugs, or a place to pee. Cleo is at her cutest when she pricks up her over-sized ears and tilts her head to the side, showing an inquisitive expression. She often looks like this when we’re having a serious talk.

I love Cleo, but sometimes I feel jealous of her. About two or three times a week, women will remark on how cute she is.

Whenever we meet someone, whether we’re in a coffee shop, on a city street, or walking along a trail, the conversation often beings with: “What kind of dog is she?”

Women do more then just pet and gush over Cleo. One sunny Saturday afternoon, Cleo and I were buying groceries at the local farmer’s market. An attractive woman approached me, saying, “Your dog’s so cute. Can I take her picture? ”

“I’m not one hundred percent sure because I got her from the shelter,” I usually reply. “But I think she’s part Westie. You can see it in her face. But her body and tail remind me of a small husky.”

The next comment from the admirer is, “Oh, she’s so cute!” She bends down to pat my

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Thinking that I was going to be in the photo too, I stood proudly next to Cleo.

The next thing I knew, a man told the woman to kneel beside my dog. He pointed his camera down slightly and snapped a few pictures as she patted my panting puppy on the head. She asked me for Cleo’s name, thanked her, and then left.

nose high in the air rather than close to the ground as usual.

“Don’t get a fat head,” I warned her.

“Remember who feeds you.”

Just then a pretty lady pointed to Cleo and said to her friend, “What a cute dog!” They both came over to pat her.

I found myself wishing that someone would fawn over me, too.

My wish came true when I met my girlfriend through an online dating service – although even then, all was not as it seemed. I had posted an arty-sounding personal profile and a photo of myself holding Cleo. About a year after we met, my girlfriend told me that it was Cleo, with her sparkling chestnut eyes, that she initially wanted to meet – not me with my fading baby blues.

I wonder if I’m the only one who lives vicariously through their dog?

“No one ever asks for my name,” I thought.

Cleo and I continued shopping. She walked jauntily in front of me, her

If you have an amusing story you'd like to submit, send it to: Tail End, at submissions@equinewellnessmagazine.com

animal wellness

107

puts up with your snoring and never whines. She loves you when the world has maligned you. She accepts you in your unpleasantness. She kisses you, listens to you and keeps you company. She warms your heart and brings joy to your life.

She

A lifetime of love deserves a lifetime of care.

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animalwellness To advertise in the Ontario Region section of Animal Wellness Magazine, contact Anne Gibson at: 416-504-4310 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com

ontario R

E

G

ION

Dinah shares a moment with B.J.

Four

Katrina dogs receive help

by Ann Brightman

finding loving new homes

A

s images of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina flashed across our television screens last September, most of us were moved to do what we could to alleviate the suffering of the people and animals whose lives were destroyed by the storm.

Donations of money and supplies poured into the area from all over North America and beyond. But some, like Dinah Nichol and Murray Wickett of Burlington, went even further to help.

“We were watching CNN footage and

seeing people being rescued off roofs and porches in New Orleans, but they were leaving the animals behind,” says Dinah. “Then one of the reporters brought attention to the fact that animals were not being allowed to go with their human companions.”

Dismayed and concerned, Dinah went online and started researching the organizations involved in saving Katrina’s animal victims. “I wanted to find out what kind of help they needed, whether it was a monetary donation or physical

labor.” Among the applications Dinah filled out was one from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

“They were the first to call me, and said they were really short of volunteers.”

After talking it over, Dinah and Murray packed up their car (“we were told to bring everything we’d need to be self-sufficient”) and drove down to Louisiana. Once there, they were assigned to the Lamar-Dixon facility, a temporary shelter in Gonzales, about 25 miles north of downtown New Orleans. animal wellness – ontario region

i

“They had roughly 1,000 animals there – mostly dogs, but also cats, horses and others.” The couple was put in Barn 5, which was sheltering around 200 dogs, mostly pit bulls. “I’d never really worked with pit bulls before but all my preconceived notions went out the window, as they are wonderful, sweet dogs,” says Dinah.

Dinah and Murray stayed a week, joining 60 other volunteers to do whatever they could to make life more comfortable for the dogs in their care. It was a difficult and sometimes heart-rending ordeal, especially on the night Hurricane Rita tore through the area.

“They evacuated everyone except some emergency staff so we were down to ten volunteers. It was an awful night as the dogs were terrified, and there was nothing we could do but walk up and down the aisles and try to comfort them as best we could.”

Murray plays in the snow with Bart and Bernard.

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animal wellness – ontario region

When the time came for Dinah and Murray to return home, they didn’t go empty-handed. “We weren’t intending to take any animals back with us, but because the facility was so

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overburdened, we felt that taking even a few dogs would be something.”

Because of the recently-implemented pit bull ban in Ontario, the couple was limited as to which dogs they could bring home.

After careful consideration, they chose a Lab, a beagle, and two shepherd/Rottweiler crosses. “At that point, you could

“

“They evacuated everyone except some emergency staff so we were down to ten volunteers. It was an awful night

”

as the dogs were terrified, and there

was nothing we could do but walk up

and down the aisles and try to comfort them as best we could.”

only take animals out through an organization affiliation,” says Dinah. “We had rescued one of our own dogs through Lab Rescue Ontario, so I contacted them and asked if they would sponsor us to bring four dogs back from Louisiana.”

The trip home was more than a little challenging. Renting an extra car to transport the dogs was nearly impossible, since so

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animal wellness – ontario region

many people had lost their vehicles in the disaster. “After basically begging and pleading with one company we finally managed to get a van that we could take as far as Buffalo, but not into Canada.” Once in Buffalo, the couple had to pack everything into their own car for the last leg of the journey. “We had to throw out some stuff, and leave one of the carriers behind.” Luckily, despite serious misgivings, they had no trouble crossing the border, and arrived home safely with their new canine charges.

Attempts to locate the dogs’ previous guardians had failed, so Dinah and Murray set to work to find new homes for their rescues. “My contact at Lab Rescue had already set up a home for the Lab, so he went right away.” The couple decided to keep the beagle, who they named Bernard.

The two shepherd/Rottweilers, however, were a little more difficult. “We found they both had heartworm, which is very common in New Orleans.” Luckily, because both dogs are young and the disease was in its earliest stages, treatment was possible. One of the dogs, BJ, went to his new home shortly before the New Year. “He was adopted by an older couple who are home all the time, which is great because he has issues about being left alone.”

Dinah and Murray are still fostering Bart, but are hopeful he’ll soon find a home as well. “It’s been a lot of work, but I wouldn’t have done it any differently, as they’re phenomenal, wonderful dogs,” Dinah says. “I’m just glad they’re all finding happy endings.”

Living with

urban wildlife

by Zoe Dalton

Need more information?

AAA Wildlife Control (www.aaawildlife.com) - provides ideas on how to prevent wildliferelated nuisance situations in and around your home.

Evergreen (www.evergreen.ca) - for tips on creating habitat for urban wildlife.

Toronto Wildlife Centre

T

o many, the idea of urban wildlife sounds like an oxymoron. How can wildlife exist in an environment that is so very “unwild”? But the reality is that wild animals do exist in the city, and in astounding diversity. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that over 200 species of wildlife can be found in the GTA. Raccoons, skunks and squirrels, the most ubiquitous, are joined by less expected species such as deer, foxes, coyotes, herons, falcons, hawks, and even beavers.

Living with these urban dwellers is a two-sided coin. On the one hand is our need to avoid wildlife-related problems, such as raccoons living in the attic or skunks under the porch. On the other is the need to ensure that urban wildlife has access to habitat – an increasingly scarce resource in the rapidly-expanding GTA.

1.

Avoiding nuisance situations requires understanding what wild animals need, and how not to provide these needs in and around our homes. Like all animals, urban wildlife seeks shelter, a secure place to raise a family, and a nearby source of food. That hole in the roof, the one leading right into your cozy attic, is therefore just the welcome your wild neighbor was waiting for. It’s also a good idea not

(www.torontowildlifecentre.com) - a charitable organization that helps sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in the GTA. Call their wildlife hotline (416-631-0662) when you find a wild animal in trouble.

Outside the GTA, call your local Humane Society for advice when you find a wild animal in trouble. animal wellness – ontario region

v

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On the opposite side of the coin, we have to make sure our ever-growing urban areas provide at least some habitat – essential both for the continued survival of wild species, and for humans to maintain a connection to wildlife and nature. Landscaping with native plants and working to maintain natural areas such as ravines and shorelines within the city are important steps in providing wild animals and birds with a place to live and thrive.

It’s true that the best laid plans for living in harmony with urban wildlife are not always successful. Hitting a squirrel with your car, finding a stunned songbird beneath your living room window, or digging up a rabbit’s nest in the backyard, are incidents that can and do happen on a regular basis. Luckily, in most cases, help is just phone call away (see sidebar).

Coexisting with urban wildlife is complex, and despite our best efforts not likely to be ever trouble-free – either for the animals or for us. Living in such close proximity to wild animals that have no choice but to share our communities opens up the potential for conflict. But we can lessen that conflict by understanding how to prevent problem situations from arising, while simultaneously creating opportunities for healthy urban wildlife populations. It’s a positive move towards making our cities more livable both for wild animals, and for nature-hungry urban residents.

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animal wellness – ontario region

vii

cat enclosures Theatre-inspired get

rave reviews

by Linda Forte-Spearing

W

hen Kristine Kischer adopted her cats from a local animal shelter, she knew her life would change -- what she didn’t know was by how much!

Ching and Cuddles adjusted quickly to

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animal wellness – ontario region

the comforts of their surroundings. But despite their newfound security, both kept trying to leave the safety of their home to explore the great outdoors.

Their determination to get out prompted

Kris to think about cat behavior and how her companions could safely spend time outside. “I thought about buying an enclosure but the ones that were available were unattractive and not

very sturdy,” she explains. “I wanted something that would look nice in the garden.”

Until recently, Kris was Head of Props for the National Ballet of Canada. In fact, it is her extensive background in theatre that eventually led her to found her Toronto-based company, The Cat’s Den. “When I couldn’t find the enclosure I was looking for, I decided to make one.

Because of my prop experience,

I was always using materials for something other than what they were originally intended for. I also have part ownership in a metal fabrication business, so I started talking to the guys on the shop f loor about my idea.

They suggested I build my enclosure out of galvanized steel instead of wood as it would remain structurally sound in our climate and would be maintenance free.”

Kris continued with her research for

another year before finally coming up with the right combination of materials and an appropriate design. “The main reason for creating the enclosure in the first place was for safety,” she explains.

“Thousands of cats are killed by cars each year, and maimed by other animals.

But the more I got involved with this business, the more I realized that such an enclosure could help with other serious issues as well. Feline obesity is a growing concern, as most house cats don’t get enough exercise. Anxiety

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ix

“Cats can run and jump inside the enclosure, but they can’t get into any trouble. They can see and chase the birds but can’t get to them. Perhaps most importantly, other animals can’t get through the steel mesh to cause them any harm.”

is another big issue, and indoor cats often exhibit urinary problems as a result of stress.”

Kris subsequently created a line of enclosures that are not only safe but attractive and versatile. “Cats can run and jump inside the enclosure, but they can’t get into any trouble. They can see and chase the birds but can’t get to them. Perhaps most importantly, other animals can’t get through the steel mesh to cause them any harm. When feeling threatened, the cat can run back into the house through a special flap door. I offer a number of designs and all my enclosures are portable.”

The units can be installed by the homeowner, although the company also offers an installation service throughout the GTA as well as in the Niagara and Hamilton areas.

Since adopting her own cats, Kris has become more involved in animal adoption programs. “A number of vets are now

displaying my brochures and many more are including my materials as a part of their adoption kits.” Kris is also responsible for the successful adoption of several shelter cats in 2005, after showing them in one of her enclosures at weekend cat shows and tradeshows.

“It’s been an amazing year,” says Kris. “I have had a very positive response to my website and we now have feedback from across North America. We are definitely filling a need within the pet community.”

To find out more about The Cat’s Den, visit www.thecatsden.net or call (416) 466-8930.

Linda Forte-Spearing is a freelance writer and the owner of Marketing Matters, a marketing and communications company.

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Austin and Jordan play a training game with Bella.

Games for kids

and canines help make training fun

by Joan Orr

U

pstairs, downstairs, under the table, behind the couch...

Bella is a six-month-old bouncing bundle of fluff playing her favorite game of hide-and-seek with her best friends, Austin

and Jordan McIntyre of Campbellville. The McIntyre family has always had dogs, but now the boys are the perfect age to take a part in Bella’s care and training. “We love having Bella animal wellness – ontario region

xi

around,” says eleven-year-old Jordan. “She’s always ready to play.” Ten-year-old Austin agrees: “She will play as long as we want, and when we just want to hang out and read or watch a movie she lies quietly with us.”

to “go find Jordan!” This game exercises the dog and is also mentally stimulating.

Showing your children how to interact safely, playfully and positively with your puppy or dog not only strengthens the bond between them, but also enhances the training process by teaching the dog to respond to commands. Here are some fun and simple training games your children and dog can enjoy together.

This is another good game that gives the dog exercise and is fun for kids. It is important, however, that the dog is taught to give back the fetched object and to step back and wait for the next throw. If the dog tries to engage in a game of tug of war, or refuses to give up the object, the kids should end the game and ignore the dog for awhile. “Any game that pits the strength or speed of the dog against those of the child could lead to over-excitement and even a biting accident,” says canine behavior consultant Teresa Lewin of Milton K9 Obedience in Milton. “Adult supervision and proper training are essential.”

Hide and seek This activity is a hit with both two- and four-footed family members. Have one child distract the dog, while the other hides and calls for her. At first, instruct your kids to hide in easy places so the dog can’t go wrong. When the hider is found, he gives the dog a treat. Once the dog gets the hang of the game, the hider can make it more challenging by going out of sight or into another room while the other child encourages the dog

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animal wellness – ontario region

Fetch

Stay inside the rope Clicker training is the best way for kids to get involved with training, and this game gives them a good opportunity to try it.

Place a circle of rope on the floor and give each child a clicker

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“

“Showing your children how to interact safely, playfully and positively with your puppy or dog not only strengthens the bond between them, but also enhances the training process by teaching the dog to respond to commands.”

and some small dog treats (the kids can make a clicking sound with their tongues if no clickers are available). Toss a treat into the center of the circle to get started. When the dog has eaten the treat, click before she steps outside the rope and toss another treat into the circle. The goal is to click and reward as often as possible while the dog has all four paws inside the rope circle. Once the dog has the idea that the place to be is inside the rope, the children can start moving around the room, still clicking and tossing treats into the circle. Play this in various locations and eventually the dog will learn to go and lie within the rope. You can then take the rope into any situation where you need to establish a boundary for the dog. It’s easier and safer than using the rope to tie the dog up!

Keep it positive Variations on this method can be used to teach the dog to prefer a certain room in the house, lie on a mat or in a crate, shake a paw, jump over a stick or just about anything else you and your kids can think up. Just remember to teach your kids never to scold or use physical force. The word “no” is never used, and there is no need to try to “dominate” the dog. If the dog does the wrong thing, the kids ignore her; if she responds correctly, she receives a treat reward.

Who says training isn’t fun?

Joan Orr is the president of Doggone Safe, a non-profit organization dedicated to dog bite prevention education. She is also the co-creator of the award-winning Doggone Crazy! board game and Clicker Puppy training DVD and the co-author of the upcoming book Getting Started – Clicker Training Your Rabbit. For more information, visit www.doggonesafe.com or www.doggonecrazy.ca.

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animal wellness – ontario region

How to care for a

special needs animal

by Claudia Hehr

H

era is a wonderful dog companion who I have the honor of sharing my life with here in Toronto. Almost eleven years ago, she was diagnosed with hip dysplasia and underwent three reconstructive surgeries. A few years later, she started having trouble walking again. I wanted to help her enjoy life and the things she likes to do much, such as Claudia takes Hera for a walk in her own special cart. animal wellness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ontario region

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going for walks and meeting friends.

So I decided to get her a cart.

Put carpets on slippery floors so he can walk with confidence and

A dog or cat can develop special needs at any time. These issues can range

Remember he has feelings too

Just because a dog can’t run after a ball anymore or keep up with you during a walk, that doesn’t mean he is not able to enjoy life anymore. He just needs a bit of help and encouragement. from mild hearing loss to partial or total immobility. The disability can come on suddenly as the result of an accident, or develop over a period of time as the animal ages. It can be a temporary situation, such as recovering from surgery, or a permanent problem like hip dysplasia.

The good news is that, just like us, animals with special needs can still lead happy and fulfilling lives. Just because a dog can’t run after a ball anymore or keep up with you during a walk, that doesn’t mean he is not able to enjoy life anymore. He just needs a bit of help and encouragement.

doesn’t have to worry about slipping and hurting himself.

Use stepping stools or ramps so your animal can get in and out of the car, or on and off furniture, easily and comfortably.

If necessary, take him out more frequently to give him extra opportunities to relieve himself.

If mobility is an issue, consider purchasing a cart.

If he can’t move as fast as he used

Situate his food and water bowl near his favorite resting place so he doesn’t have to move around unnecessarily.

No matter what your animal’s issues are, the most important things to realize is that he has feelings. Animals have the same emotions as humans, which means that laughing at them when they’re trying to climb the stairs, or making thoughtless comments such as “This is an old cat,” or “Your dog could sure lose some weight,” can have a negative impact on them.

Hera is a good example of this.

When I first got her cart, she was happy and excited and could hardly wait to try it out. During our first walk, however, we met some people who laughed at her, pointing fingers

relax unwind enjoy

Photo: Jessica V.

Making life easier Depending on your animal’s issues, there are many simple things you can do to make his life more comfortable and give him back the dignity and respect he deserves.

Many of the products available today look great but don’t keep the animal warm.

to, buy him a coat or sweater for the cold weather. Just make sure it will really protect him from the elements.

Pets welcome in waterfront resort cottages, doggie-beach, great off-leash areas, walking trails... many comforts! Only 90 minutes from Toronto.

705-939-6995 • www.rainbowcottagesresort.com/pets

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and making unkind remarks. The next day the same thing happened. On the third day, I couldn’t persuade Hera to get into her cart at all. Because I am an animal communicator, I asked her why she didn’t want to use the cart and received the answer that that she was embarrassed and deeply hurt by what people had been saying about her. The wagon that was supposed to bring Hera happiness and a new

1-800-665-2139

Many people have health or age-related problems and still lead happy, satisfying lives.

With a little care, forethought and imagination, we can give our special needs animals the same opportunity.

Avoid years of stress, inconvenience, and embarrassment! life had turned out to be a source of dismay, and she became sad, quiet, almost withdrawn. A short while later I found a different style of cart that looks more discreet. We have been using it now for more than six years and it’s been wonderful. Because it gives Hera so much security she walks that much further when we’re out.

Many people have health or age-related problems and still lead happy, satisfying lives. With a little care, forethought and imagination, we can give our special needs animals the same opportunity.

Schedule an affordable in-home consultation with applied animal behaviourist Nathan J. Penny (MSc.) and begin solving your pet’s behaviour problem today!

(416) 425-4869 or (905) 304-3602

www.animalbehaviour.ca xviii

animal wellness – ontario region

Claudia Hehr is an animal communicator based in Toronto.

She has studied with renowned communicator Penelope Smith, and is also a Reiki master. She has experience in canine psychology and animal homeopathy and is the author of If

Only Animals Could Talk... To learn more about

you can help an animal with special needs, visit www.claudiahehr.com or call

(416) 413-7671.

how

The “poop-and-scoop” on spring clean-up

by Alain Gauthier

W

When spring arrives and the snow melts away, dog guardians often find themselves faced with a major clean-up job in their back yards. As the owner of a dog waste management service,

I’ve seen it all. Armed with plastic shopping bags, homeowners head out to the yard, gathering up the winter’s accumulation of “hound mounds”. They spend 30 minutes bent over animal wellness – ontario region

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“

“

“The spring poop clean-up may be a less than enjoyable task, but for the sake of health and hygiene, it’s also a necessary one.” scooping, then retreat indoors to recoup for two hours before going out again. Others use a spatula and frying pan (I’m not kidding)! Then there’s the paint scraper route, while some people buy the specialized tools sold at

pet stores. Sometimes, parents get the kids to “do the poop scoop”, but mostly the job falls to Mom. I’ve overheard many a coffee shop conversation as dog moms compare horror stories about spring poop clean-up. It gives Nightmare on Elm Street a whole new meaning.

Making the job easier One solution is to clean up after your dog throughout the winter months.

If that’s not feasible, here are a few secrets to better scooping:

Pick a dry day to do the job.

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animal wellness – ontario region

Wear gloves.

If you find it difficult bending over, you can buy long-handled scoopers that are easier on the back.

If you can, complete the task in one fell swoop. It helps to divide the yard and do one section at a time.

Use bags or containers that can be sealed.

Afterwards, reward yourself with a shower and a treat!

Hire a dog waste management service that will do the clean-up for you. Poop-Patrol, for example, has been cleaning backyards in and around the Greater Toronto Area for seven years.

What about disposal?

When walking our dogs, we dutifully bag their waste and toss it in the nearest garbage bin. What happens to it then? Once it’s collected by the garbage truck, it gets compacted along with the rest of the trash and dumped at the landfill, where it is eventually buried but never decomposes. We are essentially locking organic waste in a plastic bag that will keep it from returning to the earth for many years.

Recently, the City of Toronto and some other municipalities

have introduced “The Green Bin” Program. It is a great way to reduce garbage going to landfill, and to increase wet organic waste going to municipal compost sites. You might wonder how dog waste can be composted, but this system, which was developed in Germany, involves basically cooking the waste in a huge oven, which sterilizes the germs and reduces it to ash. It can then be used in municipal planters and gardens. At present, a large portion of this ash still ends up going to landfill, but in a much reduced volume. The Green Bin Program accepts animal wastes, making it a convenient and environmentally friendly way of disposing of “Rover’s leftovers.”

The spring poop clean-up may be a less than enjoyable task, but for the sake of health and hygiene, it’s also a necessary one. And when you think of the unconditional love your dog gives you all year round, isn’t it worthwhile?

Alain Gauthier is the owner of Poop Patrol and Beyond Obedience, a dog training business, both founded in 1999. Poop Patrol plays an active part in the Toronto dog community, including at the annual Woofstock event. For more information, visit www.poop-patrol.com.

ONTARIO REGION marketplace Rexdale Animal Hospital Homeopathic Treatments Massage Therapy Dentistry Surgery Wellness Exams Natural Dog Foods Nutritional Supplements Grooming & Obedience Classes

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ONTARIO REGION marketplace

Manson B

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Counselling

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ONTARIO REGION marketplace ~ Thistledown Garden’s Handmade Soap ~ all natural oils - pH balanced - made to order with or without essential oils and natural colours Organic Olive Oil & Milk soaps available Pet (sham)’Poo Bars: 100% saponified sunflower oil Lansdowne, Ontario 613-659-2921

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Helping pet guardians through the entire process of pet loss • Pre-planning • Cremations • Urns & Memorial Gifts • Urn Placement • Support

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contact: Anne Gibson Canadian Regional Manager Tel: 416-504-4310 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com

ONTARIO REGION marketplace East York Animal Clinic

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Chiropractic for the entire family!

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Dr. Joanna Milan Joanna’s practice is exclusivley dedicated to complementary care in the areas of acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine, and nutraceuticals for companion animals.

You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Milan by calling: Secord Animal Hospital • 416-486-1700 3271 Yonge St. • Toronto, ON

Dr. Autumn Louise Drouin VETERINARIAN N AT U R O PAT H 905-830-1030 www.holistic-vet.ca North-East Newmarket Veterinary Services 987 Davis Drive, Newmarket, ON

HOLISTIC & CONVENTIONAL VETERINARY CARE

balancing both for the well being of your pet Dr. Margaret Hacking Ballantrae Animal Hospital Stouffville, on

905-640-6809

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animalwellness To advertise in the Atlanta section of Animal Wellness Magazine, contact Nannette Ferrell at: 770-374-3966 nannette@animalwellnessmagazine.com

ATLANTA

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Raw diets are more than just another nutrition trend H

ave you heard the hype about raw diets? Is it really hype? Although this is one of the most debated animal nutrition subjects today, increasing numbers of animal guardians, vets and retailers are recognizing its health benefits.

Should you feed raw?

Dr. Kimberly Stagmeier, a well known Atlanta area veterinarian, answers with a definite yes. She spent years constantly searching for the mysterious “underlying allergen” that was causing the epidemic of inflamed skin, infected ears and yeast overgrowths

she saw on a daily basis. The first time a client approached her about the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet, she thought the woman insane and dismissed it as a trend. Six weeks later, the client returned with an Airedale terrier who not only had no sign of ear infection or skin allergies, but also looked better than she had during the two years Dr. Stagmeier had been treating her.

Seven years and several hundred furry clients later, Dr. Stagmeier is well known for recommending species appropriate raw diets. “I am seeing miraculous results every day,” she says, animal wellness – atlanta region

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For more information, contact: Dr. Kimberly Stagmeier Animal Wellness Center PC 418 North Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-754-1255 www.drstagmeier.com

adding that she has seen raw diets alleviate eye, ear and nasal discharges, bacterial, viral and yeast infections, autoimmune and endocrine disorders, behavioral issues, seizures, allergies and obesity. In addition, dogs and cats fed a raw diet stay slim, have noticeably cleaner teeth, produce less waste and odor, have a healthier skin and coat and display a remarkable attitude and energy level. Dr. Stagmeier now knows first hand the benefits of raw food and has no intention of looking back.

Books

Raw Meaty Bones Promote Health, Dr. Tom Lonsdale Work Wonders, Feed Your Dog Raw Meaty Bones, Dr. Tom Lonsdale See Spot Live Longer, Steve Brown & Beth Taylor Feed Your Dog a Bone, Dr. Ian Billinghurst

Websites

www.ahvma.com www.rawlearning.com www.southeasternnaturalrearing.com

What are the risks?

Suppliers

Animal Food Service (www.animalfood.com) Bright Eyes Pet (www.brighteyespet.com) Golden Choice Pet Food (www.goldenchoice.20m.com) Nature’s Variety Pet Foods (www.naturesvariety.com) Paige Lee Raw Pet Diets (Alpharetta) paige_lee@comcast.net Raw Diet Coaching (Cassandra Lawson) fairyringz@bellsouth.net Raw Feeding Co-op (Duluth) atyler1462@aol.com

Many people have questions and concerns about raw diets.

How balanced are they? What about salmonella or e-coil? What about bones? Can they tear the intestinal tract or get lodged in the animal’s throat?

The dog has the same gut as a wolf - the quantity of acid in his stomach is capable of killing the harmful bacteria that would make a human ill. Raw bones, meanwhile, are flexible and

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Change is good, especially when it means a healthier diet for your dog. Nature’s Variety Dry Kibble and Raw Frozen Diets have more meat protein, less grain (no corn, wheat or soy), and a wider variety of forms and flavors.

There has never been a better time to change!

Visit naturesvariety.com/tryit to receive your FREE FOOD OFFER!

Dry Kibble Diets available in: Chicken, Beef, Lamb and Venison Raw Frozen Diets available in: Chicken, Beef, Lamb, Venison, and Organic Chicken

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animal wellness – atlanta region

generally digest well. It’s cooking that makes them brittle and sharp and more like to tear the GI tract or get struck in the throat. And according to Dr. Stagmeier, a raw diet is as nutritionally balanced as you can get: the vitamins from the organs, minerals from the bones, and the protein and digestive enzymes from the muscle meat are in perfect proportion, just as nature intended.

Where can you find raw diets?

Atlanta retailers have quickly caught on to growing consumer demand for convenient raw diets. Pet stores and natural food stores across the metro area are now carrying packaged frozen raw diets that take the guesswork out of preparation.

There are also local delivery services and mail order options for those who don’t have close access to a retailer.

Nature’s Variety Pet Foods (www.naturesvariety.com) has swept the Atlanta market with their line of raw patties, medallions and bones. The food is also available in freeze dried form for treats and travel. Animal Food Service (AFS) is another commercially prepared raw diet readily available through local distributors, including Bright Eyes Pet (www.brighteyespet.com). Carol Walker stands behind the product she sells and even years after converting to raw is still amazed at the difference the diet has made to her own Dobermans. AFS packages their products in five-pound rolls, patties and medallions, while freeze dried products include their newest product, Nibblets, which are bite sized meat treats.

Golden Choice (www.goldenchoice.20m.com) is a locally owned and operated company also dedicated to raw diets for animals. Owners Pat and Joe Wahl prepare and package quality raw meats in a variety of sizes and proteins, including emu.

Regardless of how you decide to feed raw – pre-packaged, home prepared or a combination of the two – it’s critical to do your research and consult a vet who is knowledgeable on the subject before switching your dog or cat. Done correctly, though, raw diets are nutritionally balanced and will make a huge difference to the health of your companion.

If raw diets are a trend, it’s a trend that’s thousands of years old. We just happen to be rediscovering it. In fact, feeding raw is another step towards giving your dog or cat a healthier and happier life. animal wellness – atlanta region

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Where the red Fern goes...

F

Photo: Terri Lynn Greenberg – www.terrilynnephotography.com

Your animal’s guide to life in Atlanta

Fern has been busy combing the “petropolitian” area searching out great places and exciting opportunities for you and your four-legged friend. She has spent countless hours being pampered, taste testing food, playing with friends and interviewing pet sitters to find the very best. It’s a tiring job, but someone has to do it!

Delectable destinations Great Grooms, Williamsburg Village at Clairmont and Briarcliff, 404-320-1600 Great Grooms is just that - great! Fern went for her “spring cleaning” and came out smelling like roses...well, chrysanthemums to be exact. Amy Plummer prides herself on attention to detail, friendly service and the use of natural products on all her clients. Fern’s favorite part about the service was the hot pink nail “pawlish”! Great Grooms also carries the full line of Nature’s Variety pet food, including raw frozen diets. Rumor has it that Great Grooms is expanding to serve more furry clients – check out their website at www.greatgrooms.net and make your appointment today. Tell Amy and Dustin that Fern sent you!

Pet Supplies Plus, Piedmont Avenue, 404-875-7500 This in-town pet supply store makes Fern’s heart skip a beat.

Pet Supplies Plus offers the very best by carrying more lines of holistic, natural and organic foods than anyone else in the area, possibly even the state. Not only that, but the selection of bones definitely gives you something to gnaw on - your dog will never get bored here. And don’t forget to check out the Pet Spa. Pet Supplies Plus also offers toys, treats, food and more for the hopping, flying and swimming animals in your life.

The Pet Basket, Alpharetta and Cumming, 770-456-5860 The Pet Basket offers high quality pet foods such as Eagle Pack, Solid Gold and Nature’s Variety as well as top of the line supplies and unique gifts for you and your animal. Fern’s favorite is the selection of breed specific and custom made throws. There is nothing like snuggling up in a throw that was woven from your furry friend’s picture. The Pet Basket also has gourmet treats to make your hound drool; try the

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Snickerpoodles or Garlic Growls. Visit them on the web at www.thepetbasket.com.

Dog Days Atlanta, Cain’s Hill Place, 404-266-8668 Dog Days is where Buckhead dogs go for fun. The small family-like setting and caring employees make any animal parent feel comfortable about leaving their dog there for a day of play or a night away. Fern rates it four paws up for fun. Dog Days also carries natural foods as well as a great selection of comfy beds, hip collars, stylish bowls, gourmet treats and hard to find gifts. Enroll your dog today at www.dogdaysatlanta.com.

Russell Ridge Animal Hospital, Ridge Road, Lawrenceville, 678-407-0700 With so many choices available, finding a vet can sometimes be a difficult task, especially when you’re looking for one who deals well with high maintenance humans. Fern found one! Dr. Mike Wanchick ranks tops in her book. His newly built, state of the art clinic is impressive, but the knowledge-

animal wellness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; los angeles & region

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able, friendly caring people who run it are what make it the wonderful place it is. Fern even got an identification card during her last visit – much to her dismay, it doesn’t qualify her to drive. Get more information about Dr. Wanchick and his staff at www.russellridgeanimalhospital.com.

20th Annual Atlanta Dog Jog, April 30

Not-to-be-missed events

Although it was chilly, last year’s jog was a blast and this year’s is sure to be even better. Get to Piedmont Park early because the first race begins at 8:30 a.m., then stay afterwards to check out the local vendors and fun exhibits.

All proceeds benefit Noah’s Ark Rehabilitation Center. Sign up now at www.rungeorgia.com/dogjog.

Spring Party at Pet Supplies Plus, April 9

Alive Expo, April 29 and 30

Come out on Sunday, April 9 from noon till 3 p.m. and enjoy socializing with other dogs and their humans. There will be an Easter Egg hunt at 1:30. Spring portraits will be taken by Photogruffs (www.photogruffs.com) and there will also be special treats from Taj Ma Hound. Enjoy demonstrations from Jeanie Ward (www.k9-divine.com) on pet wellness, yoga and massage, helpful tips from Jabula Dog Academy, and maybe even an appearance from the Nature’s Variety Pet Food cover dog, Gabriel! Call 404-875-7500 for more information. And mark your calendars for June, because Fern has heard rumors of a pool party!

Yappy Hour at Piedmont Bark, April 23 Whether or not you plan to enter the Atlanta Dog Jog, you can still mix and mingle with friends at this pre-party.

Come enjoy music, food and fun from 3 to 6 p.m. Dogs are welcome, but proof of vaccines is required. For more information visit www.piedmontbark.com.

Alive Expo is a health and wellness consumer trade show held at the Georgia World Congress Center. Not only will there be exhibits for human wellness, but we hear there will also be some for animals too – training, yoga, massage and natural products will be on exhibit. For ticket information, visit www.aliveexpo.com.

Bark in the Park, May 27 This doggy event is sponsored by the Cobb County Parks Department and will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Jim Miller Park. The list of exhibits and events is too long to list here, but suffice it to say this is where Fern will be on May 27.

For more information, contact Joyce Gibson at 770-427-6763 or Pat Wahl at 770-425-5412.

Have questions for Fern, or know of a place you think she should visit? E-mail her at FernsAtlanta@aol.com and let her know.

Airport Park’N Bark Pet Resort & Doggie Daycare

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678-278-0137

www.airportparknbark.com vi

animal wellness – atlanta region

Obtaining Your PhDog Why ongoing training is important

DOG ACADEMY

A Jabula Dog is a Happy Dog! Obedience classes available: Stage 1 Beginner Stage 2 Intermediate Stage 3 Advanced

Flyball Racing: Stage 1 & Stage 2 Winston takes on hurdles to stay mentally and physically fit.

T

The function of dogs in our society has changed. Years ago dogs worked on farms and in communities, guarding, herding, retrieving, and more. Dogs were essentially outdoor domestic working animals with a limited and different type of relationship with humans. Today, dogs are viewed as family members more than working domestic animals. This is not a bad thing; however it can become

problematic in the lives of both the dog and its human companion.

Dogs have the same energy, drives and instincts they have always had.

All canine dogs possess a strong need to work, but as our view of them has changed, we have forgotten this basic need. In a home environment, dogs without jobs will create their

Also available: Private Lessons, Puppy Play School, Training Camp, Trick Training, Freestyle Dancing and Agility!

228 Weeks St. Decatur, GA 30030

For class information:

404.373.6258

www.jabuladogs.com animal wellness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; atlanta region

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Dogs of all ages need training. It gives them the chance to work, to do something productive and exercise mentally and physically.

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(across from Midway Meal House)

animal wellness – atlanta region

own. For example, a Jack Russell terrier might revert back to its hunting instincts and start digging.

A German shepherd might start chasing its tail or herding children. Other behaviors of under-worked dogs include: excessive barking, chewing, jumping and stealing as well as some aggressive and obsessive behaviors like paw licking and tail chasing. These behaviors can be frustrating for humans and tough on the dogs who are constantly being scolded for doing what, in their minds, is a great job.

the dog to rely solely on its handler for instruction, thus requiring a great deal of mental and physical energy.

Training programs such as obedience, trick training and freestyle dance are slightly less physical, but intensely demanding on a dog mentally.

Consider how you might feel taking an important exam or sitting in rush hour traffic; although you haven’t broken a sweat, you are exhausted because of the mental concentration required.

Dogs of all ages need training. It gives them the chance to work, to do something productive and exercise mentally and physically. Practiced regularly throughout your dog’s lifetime it will keep him engaged and happy. The right sport and a good training program that combines both mental and physical activity is the key. Going for a walk, playing a game of fetch or interacting with other dogs, although important, addresses only the physical aspect of a dog’s need to work.

You don’t have to have a border collie to participate in canine sports.

A ball-obsessed husky can have a blast at flyball, as can a tea cup poodle. And who says a nine-year-old dachshund can’t learn to shake and roll over? Dogs do not have to be exceptionally good at a particular sport, activity or training class to enjoy it. The important thing is that they have a wonderful working experience with their human that is fun, challenging, interactive, fulfilling and most importantly gives them a job to do. So continue to work with your dog’s education – it will make for a happier, more relaxed and content companion and a happier, more relaxed you!

Canine sports such as agility and flyball are the perfect combination of both mental and physical exertion.

Both are excellent activities that reinforce leadership and give the dog purpose. These sports require

For more information on training classes offered by Kate Jackson please visit her website at www.jabuladogs.com.

Training provides dogs with a job

Unleashing your dog’s inner spirit Using touch and intuition to create whole health and well-being

Jeanie helps to ease Taffi’s physical and emotional pain through touch.

A

At first glance, one might think that Taffi, a golden retriever, is a pampered dog, but the regular bodywork sessions she receives from the capable hands of Jeanie Ward are recommended treatment from Atlanta veterinarian, Dr. Susan Wynn.

Two years ago, Jeanie was initially called upon to help ease the pain of hip dysplasia and arthritis and increase Taffi’s mobility. The golden retriever also has cancer and thus her body has been invaded by cells that threaten her life. Jeanie’s therapy has made a remarkable difference in Taffi and given her guardians peace and reassurance. They want her to have the best and this treatment is only one of the many things they have done to improve her quality of life. The gentle, nurturing massages, energy healing and acupressure treatments have enhanced Taffi’s quality of life and made the physical and emotional pain a little easier to

handle. There’s a sparkle in her eye and a kick in her step.

As humans we have continually grown in our love for animals and appreciate our four-legged companions more and more. With this has come a realization that these creatures, who love us unconditionally, need more than a bowl of water, a bag of kibble and a back yard to lead full and happy lives. So we feed them all-natural foods, enroll them in training class, have them groomed, brush their teeth and provide them with orthopedic beds covered in designer fabrics. Isn’t this enough?

Massage benefits canine athletes, rescue dogs, puppies and more Some dogs are involved in activities such as agility, tracking, animal wellness – atlanta region

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A massage feels good; it renews your inner spirit, relaxes you and leaves you looking at life a bit differently surrounded by a calming energy.

A session of meditation or yoga rejuvenates your spirit, awakens your mind, clears your head and increases your vitality. A balanced person is a healthy person. The same principle holds true for your dog. A balanced dog is a healthy dog.

Hey

Georgia Residents!

Animal Wellness today for a chance to win an AW gift basket!* Subscribe to

herding, hunting and competing in confirmation shows.

Even those who are not involved in organized events may take long daily walks with their guardian or spend an active day playing with other dogs at a local day care or dog park.

All of these activities can cause stress in your dog -- yes, your dog can be stressed, physically and emotionally.

Jeanie Ward teaches humans massage techniques for their canine, as well as how to use deliberate touch techniques to recognize injury or stress in your dog. It’s a beneficial and relaxing experience for both.

Many dogs have been rescued from uncertain situations and thus have special needs. These needs can range from fear to anger to anxiety, but whatever the need, these unsuspecting animals have led lives much harder than they deserved. Jeanie’s class for these rescue dogs is a learning experience for canines and humans alike. Her special techniques focus on issues of trust, reassurance, relaxation and unconditional love. Nurturing touch and energy healing help the dog to relax and learn to be comfortable in its new home and in its own skin. Humans also learn to relax and offer their newly adopted companion the patience needed to create a lasting bond.

Puppies, like human infants, benefit from these methods as well. Deliberate touch and calming sessions of meditation help to increase the human-dog bond creating a well adjusted, comfortable puppy. Additionally, bodywork increases circulation, which allows growing bones and joints to receive vital nutrients essential to a healthy body and a long life.

These therapeutic techniques are not just for aging, ill or injured dogs; they’re for everyone. From puppy to senior, human to canine, the techniques taught and used by people such as Jeanie Ward create a positive environment and promote healthy living.

Fortunately, these canine healing and behavior modification techniques are becoming more accepted in veterinary and training communities. As a result, dogs from every “walk of life” are reaping the benefits.

valued

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To learn more about Jeanie Ward and how she can bring balance to your life, visit her website at www.k9-divine.com.

Taffi

*contents may differ from image shown Contest expires July 31/06

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/gasubscribe

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eventually succumbed to her cancer and left this

earth peacefully.

She

crossed the

Rainbow Bridge with a For those who remain

renewed spirit and a happy energy.

on earth, she left them with beautiful memories and hearts full of love.

Every pet should have the chance to grow old.

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Is a

rabbit right for you?

R

by Debbie Anne Hunter Rabbits are wonderful companion animals. They run like the wind, play with toys, sleep, dig, chew and provide us with entertainment for a lifetime. Most importantly, they become an integral part of the family, and will bond with people as well as other animals in the household.

Rabbits are also intelligent, social animals that need affection. Each and every rabbit has his own distinct personality. There is definitely a “bunny language” that you need to understand if you are to truly bond with your rabbit. Chinning, tooth grinding, bunny jumps, stomping, grunting, feet circling, and the “bunny flop” all have specific meanings.

Natalie snuggles with her bunnies. Rabbits can bond well with children, but adult supervision is suggested.

What you need to know Before choosing a rabbit as an animal companion, learn to distinguish fact from fiction. The generally perceived standards for rabbit care have changed significantly in the past five years.

For instance, the most important element in a rabbit’s diet is hay, and they need a lot of it. Fresh greens, such as parsley or turnips, should also be offered daily in appropriate quantities.

Natural treats can be given several times a week, and can include a small piece of fresh fruit (such as a slice of banana, one grape, etc.).

If you are thinking of adopting a rabbit, here’s what you need to consider: Rabbits have a lifespan of eight to ten years.

The primary caregiver should be an adult.

Your home needs to be “bunny proofed” to be safe for curious rabbits Rabbits must have exercise and human interaction every day.

Rabbits do well with older children and other animals, but interactions must be supervised.

All rabbits should be spayed or neutered.

Despite what is offered for sale in most pet stores, a wire bottom cage is not suitable housing and can cause harm to a rabbit’s feet.

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animal wellness – atlanta region

Make sure your lifestyle and environment are appropriate and that you have the time to give your rabbit a happy and healthy life.

Rabbit resource For answers to all your questions about rabbit adoption, care, behavior, diet and health, the North Georgia chapter of the House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org or www.houserabbitga.org) is a great resource. This is a national non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. It has two primary goals:

1.

To rescue abandoned rabbits or those sheltered by Humane Societies; spay/neuter and socialize them while in foster care; and arrange for them to be adopted into permanent, loving, indoor homes.

2.

To educate the public and assist Humane Societies with the appropriate care and feeding of rabbits.

The organization also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to suit every talent, skill and schedule, and that will introduce you to other rabbit enthusiasts in the community. A subscription to their quarterly newsletter, The Literate Lagamorph, is included in the yearly membership fee of $15.

Like any other critter, rabbits require some specialized care.

But as most rabbit guardians will agree, these quiet, long-eared animals make delightful companions and can be just as loving and rewarding as a dog or cat.

ATLANTA METRO AREA SHELTERS Barrow County Animal Control 770-307-3012 Bartow County Animal Control 770-387-5153 www.bartowga.org/animalshelter/index.html

DeKalb County Animal Control 404-294-2996 www.dekalbpolice.com/ac/

Hall County Humane Society 770-532-6617 www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA93.html

Douglas County Animal Control 770-942-5961

Henry County Animal Control 770-954-2100 www.co.henry.ga.us/AnimalControl/AnimalControl.htm

Bartow County Humane Society 770-383-3338 www.bartowhumane.org

Fayette County Animal Control 770-487-6450 www.admin.co.fayette.ga.us/animalshelter/info_animals.htm

Carroll County Animal Control 770-834-8150 www.Petfinder.com/Shelter/GA38.html

Floyd County Animal Control 706-236-4545 or 706-236-4537 www.floydcountyga.org/animalcontrol

Chamblee Animal Control 770-986-5019 (lost pets only)

Forsyth County Animal Control Shelter 770-888-2500 www.forsythco.com/newcomers.asp?info=nc_animal

Cherokee County Animal Control 770-345-7270 www.cherokeega.com/ccweb/departments/animal_shelter/ and www.petfinder.org/shelters/GA50.html

Fulton County Animal Services (Managed by Southern Hope Humane Society) 404-794-0358 www.fultonanimalservices.com

Cobb County Animal Control 770-499-4136 www.cobbanimalcontrol.org and www.petfinder.org/shelters/GA137.html

Gwinnett County Animal Control 770-339-3200 www.gwinnettanimalcontrol.com

Coweta County Animal Control 770-254-3735 www.coweta.ga.us/Resources/animal.html

Hall County Animal Control 770-531-6830 www.hallcounty.org/depts/animal_control.asp

Newton County Animal Control 770-786-9514 www.co.newton.ga.us Oconee County Animal Control 706-769-3956 www.oconeecounty.com Paulding County Animal Control 770-445-1511 www.paulding.gov/living/animalcontrol.asp Rockdale County Animal Care and Control 770-785-5927 Spalding County Animal Control 770-467-4772 www.spaldingcountyanimalshelter.com Walton County Animal Control 770-267-1322

ATLANTA METRO RESCUE GROUPS Small Dog Rescue and Humane Society www.smalldoghumane.org

No More Homeless Pets Atlanta www.atlantapets.org

GA German Shepherd Rescue www.gashepherd.com

Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends www.aarfatlanta.org

Cindy’s K-9 Angels, Inc. www.cindysk-9angels.com

Good Mews www.goodmews.org

Animal Action Rescue www.animalactionrescue.org

Paws Atlanta www.pawsatlanta.org

Save Our Setters www.saveoursetters.org

Field of Dreams Gun Dog Rescue www.gundogrescue.org

Stray Atlanta www.strayatlanta.org

Dixie Coonhound Rescue www.dixiecoonhoundrescue.org

North Georgia Chapter of the House Rabbit Society www.houserabbitga.org

Atlanta Pet Rescue www.atlantapetrescue.org

Atlanta Dog Squad www.atlantadogsquad.org

Pigs as Pets Association www.pigsaspets.org

Our Pal’s Place www.ourpalsplace.org

For a list of rescue groups in the Atlanta Metro area, please visit http://www.petrorphans.com and click on the Rescue List.

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distribute magazines • advertise • submit stories Become a part of the animal wellness movement and help educate your friends and family on health and wellness issues for animals.

contact: Nannette Ferrell Atlanta Regional Manager Tel: 770-374-3966 nannette@animalwellnessmagazine.com

www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com