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ONTARIO E D I T I O N
wellness I N S I D E
For a long, healthy life!
Nutrition tips for active dogs
Sports Dogs
Does your dog have what it takes?
3 common bone problems
Who won our
Photo
How to introduce
contest?
dogs & cats
10 tips for your water baby August/September
Display until September 17, 2007
$5.95 USA/Canada
VOLUME 9 ISSUE 4
Check inside!
Is your dog healthy?
How to tell with just a look www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com
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contents
38
40
features
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20 Top 3 bone problems 38 8 ways to soothe in growing pups Here’s what you need to know
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Keeping the peace when you have to be away
24 The cat’s meow
40 Eat & run!
30 King of the road
46 Sports dogs
Excessive vocalization can be a cry for help
24
separation anxiety
How to keep your best friend safe
Good nutrition for busy dogs
Sports that go to the dogs – and how to get involved!
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Click on this icon to visit featured links tale ending 54 Do opposites attract? 67 Clicker training 101 76 Fairy Documentary film How to introduce dogs to cats (or the other way round!)
58 Eyeing up your
dog’s constitution Iridology offers an “inside look” at canine nature
62 Ten tips for your canine water baby Make a splash with your best buddy
An easy and effective way to get your dog to do what you want
72 Shoo!
8 ideas to discourage free-roaming felines
74 Improving quality
helps the stray dogs of Romania
81 Amazing Animals Photo Contest Winners!
Check out our gallery of prize-winning shots
of life for canine cancer patients
Supplements that ease the effects of this dreaded disease
ONTARIO REGIONAL SECTION
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contents Volume 9 Issue 4
columns 14 Yakkity yak 34 Dr. Martin Goldstein
86 Animal passages 105 Mystery Mutt
94 Book reviews
108 The tail end
departments 8
Editorial
88
What’s gnu?
12 Mail bag
97
Ad spots
29 Product picks
103
Classifieds
77 Wellness
104
Events calendar
resource guide
our cover: Photo: Wendy Beard
A sports enthusiast, three-year-old Roo has been competing in agility for about 11/2 years and reached her Agility Trial Champion of Canada (ATchC) in less than one year of trialing. This active tri border collie lives in Ottawa, Ontario, where she also participates in flyball and disc as well as running on an all-border collie dog sled team. What a great way to keep busy and work off her premium natural diet!
Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightŠ 2007. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: July, 2007
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Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Canadian Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Graphic Designer: Leanne Atin Graphic Designer: Stephanie Wright Cover Photography: Wendy Beard Illustration: Leanne Rosborough Columnists & Contributing Writers Christine Agro, ND, MIr, MH Michelle Bernard Terri Diener Martin Goldstein, DVM Suzanne Hetts, PhD Elizabeth Hodgkins, DVM Jean Hofve, DVM Shawn Messonnier, DVM Pamela Nations-Weissman Paul Owens Gillian Ridgeway Christina Shusterich Lida Sideris Eva Sippel Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager Lesia Wright Information Services Director Vaughan King Circulation & Communications Manager Jamie Conroy Administrative Assistant Julie Poff 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: submission@animalwellnessmagazine.com. National Sales Manager: Lesley Nicholson (866) 764-1212 lesley@animalwellnessmagazine.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr (213) 793-1867 becky@animalwellnessmagazine.com Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue is $22.95 in the U.S. and $24.95 in Canada, 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 Like most animal lovers, my family was on tenterhooks when news about the massive pet food recall began to hit the airwaves. Each day, as more and more names were added to the list of tainted foods, I would go online to make sure our two cats weren’t eating one of those brands. Thank goodness they weren’t, but I know that’s no reason to be complacent. Good nutrition is perhaps the single most vital factor in the health and well being of our dogs and cats. The recall has pointed out yet one more risk associated with feeding poor quality foods made from questionable ingredients. Although this tragic incident has left a lot of people feeling scared and confused, it’s also spurred thousands to take action by educating themselves about safer, healthier options for their beloved companions.
from the top experts in their fields. Along with articles on raw, home-cooked and premium packaged diets, supplements and treats (and plenty of recipes for you to try!), we’re including crucial info on age-appropriate and breed-specific diets, de-toxing, GMO foods, pet food labels, why and how recalls happen, and everything else you need to know to make the best possible dietary choices for your dog or cat. Due out this September, you can order this comprehensive publication directly by visiting our website at www.animalwellnessmagazine.com. In the meantime, this issue of Animal Wellness celebrates the dog days of summer with articles on canine sports, water and car safety, and how to feed and supplement active pooches. You’ll also find useful tips on clicker training, separation anxiety, iridology, and excessive vocalization in cats. And be sure to check out the winners of our Amazing Animals Photo Contest – as always, we received hundreds of fantastic shots! Good health to you and your best friend!
To help you and other consumers make more informed choices for your furry friends, we’ve decided to produce a special Pet Food Report. This leading-edge publication will be packed with information on animal nutrition
Ann Brightman Managing Editor
Get to the truth! Order your Pet Food Report today! For all your questions about pet nutrition and supplementation, this is the definitive publication. Call us toll free:1 866-764-1212 9 a.m.-5 p.m. E.S.T. or order online:
www.animalwellnessmagazine.com
Delivered to your home by September 30
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contributors Photo: erinsiegal.com
Dr. Christine Agro is a naturopath, master iridologist and master herbalist as well as a professional clairvoyant and energy healer. She is the founder of Healing Dog (www.healingdog.com) and Conscious Animal (www.consciousanimal.com) and speaks regularly about animal health and wellness topics. To learn how iridology can be used to help anxious dogs, read Christine’s article on page 58.
Veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve is the former Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, and has researched pet food and nutrition for more than 12 years. While serving two years as a full-time animal advocate for the Animal Protection Institute, she was a liaison to AAFCO, the organization that sets standards for the pet food industry. Having also served as a practicing veterinarian and four-term President of the Rocky Mountain Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Hofve has a unique perspective on the pet food industry and pet nutrition. She has written extensively on nutrition for a variety of publications over the past ten years – turn to page 40 for her article on feeding and supplementing active dogs.
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Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins, Esq., has been practicing for 28 years and currently owns and runs All About Cats Health Center in Yorba Linda, California. From 1985 to 1993, she served as the Director of Technical Affairs at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. It was during this time that she developed a passion for veterinary nutrition that prompted her to investigate the subject, particularly the management of feline obesity and diabetes. Elizabeth’s new book, Your Cat: Simple Secrets for a Longer, Stronger Life has recently been published by St. Martin’s Press. In this issue, Dr. Hodgkins addresses excessive vocalization in cats – see page 24.
Dr. Suzanne Hetts is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist in Littleton, Colorado, and an internationally known award-winning speaker and author. She began her career in animal work as a medical technologist at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University, and later decided to specialize in animal behavior. She incorporated Animal Behavior Associates, Inc. (www.animalbehaviorassociates.com) in partnership with her major professor, Dr. Philip Lehner, and now specializes in helping people whose dogs and cats have behavior problems. On page 54, Dr. Hetts shares her advice on introducing a dog to a cat (or vice versa).
Michelle Bernard, author of Raising Cats Naturally, has spent over a decade researching natural health for cats. A freelance writer who breeds American shorthairs, she has kept 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 also offers nutritional and natural health consultations from her home in North Carolina. For her tips on how to deter roaming cats, see page 72.
Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He is also the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s program, Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet, on Sirius Satellite Radio. His veterinary practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (www.petcarenaturally.com), is located in Plano, Texas. In this issue (page 20), Dr. Messonnier talks about bone problems in growing dogs.
Paul Owens is the author of The Dog Whisperer, A Compassionate Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training, now also available on DVD (www.dogwhispererdvd.com). 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. Turn to page 67 for his article on clicker training.
contributors Christina Shushterich, BA, CBC, is the owner of NY Clever K9 Inc. and a fully certified trainer and canine behavior specialist. She is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors as well as a registered evaluator and administrator of the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test. Christina is a devoted shelter and rescue work volunteer and conducts behavioral evaluations along with training and treatment of behavior problems, thereby increasing each dog’s adoptability. In this issue, she offers solutions to separation anxiety (page 38).
Eva Sippel was born and raised in Germany where
Gillian Ridgeway is the Director of Who’s Walking Who Dog Training Centre in Toronto and Ajax. She has been featured in many newspaper and magazine articles, radio shows and most recently as the canine expert for Canoe Live TV. Gillian is a speaker at many trainer and vet tech conferences, and a guest lecturer at the University of Toronto. Her own dogs have titles in obedience, flyball and agility. In her spare time, Gillian travels with the SuperDogs International Performance Team – see page 46 for her article on how to get your dog involved in canine sports.
she studied politics and theatre. After moving to southern California, she graduated with a BA degree in Radio TV Film and embarked on a successful career as a radio producer at KFWB, during which she was awarded two Golden Mikes. Eva has produced various TV shows as well as independent films; she started Schnuffie Productions, Inc. in 1993. Eva lives in Burbank with her husband and Lina, a rescued dog from Romania – to learn about the documentary film she’s making about Romania’s strays, turn to page 76.
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mail bag Loved the article “Tackling Ticks” (April/ May 2007). On page 37 it mentions putting a few drops of tea tree, lavender or citrus oil in some water to spray on our pets as a repellant. Can you tell me how many drops in how much water, e.g., 6 drops in 12 ounces. Thanks! Laurie Previtali, via email
Editor’s note: When it comes to essential oils, less is more. Try 2-4 drops of each essential oil in a 16-oz. spray bottle filled with water. If you add 1 tsp. vodka or vegetable glycerin to the oils and shake before adding the water, it will help the oils emulsify better. Always shake the formula before spraying it on your dog. We noticed you did a story on “living with a three-legged animal” (June/July 2007). We love to see stories on how disabled animals make great pets. But what we don’t see is how three-legged dogs can excel in sports and programs typically thought of for only four-legged dogs. Our dog Maty was abandoned in a motel at three weeks and brought to the Humane Society of Central Oregon. Her
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Dear Animal Wellness Magazine: leg was amputated at eight weeks due to a veterinarian’s misdiagnosis of a fracture that was an infection. She was adopted to a nursing home where she lived until she was seven months as a facility therapy puppy. Maty is now living with us. From eight weeks of age she has been giving back to the community that saved her life by providing pet therapy visits and humane education visits to thousands of children each year as a canine ambassador for the Humane Society. She recently placed seventh out of 25 world class fourlegged dog teams in the world Frisbee championship in Atlanta last September. Maty’s abilities and story can be seen at www.hsco.org/Maty.html. I hope you can publish an upcoming article that shows that with proper care (including nutrition, exercise, massage) a three-legged animal can excel in life and canine sports just like a four-legged animal. Maty is now 6.5 years old and very strong and healthy. Lynne Ouchida, Troy Kerstetter and Maty, via email
Editor’s note: Congratulations to Maty - and to you for giving her the opportunity to achieve. As our article pointed out, three-legged animals can enjoy rich and active lives, but Maty has obviously raised the bar on what a “tripod” can do! I want to stress the importance of small animal massage, and conditioning our pets from birth to enjoy and be familiar with these techniques. It will pay huge dividends, particularly after a pet’s
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we want to hear from you!
unfortunate accident. One of my cats suffered an injury recently, and we thought she broke both of her back legs! She was startled by the lawn sprinkler system, with a sprinkler nozzle hitting her in the stomach. She was totally soaked, raced 100 feet to the house, and slipped on the wet grass. She then hit a concrete landscape wall at high speed, and was screaming from pain. I immediately got her into the clinic, and luckily she only dislocated one leg. This 12-year-old cat has always enjoyed massage, and even reflexology on her paws. One technique that assisted in her three-month recovery was the full extension, stretching, and slow rotation of each limb. I implemented this technique with full body massage, along with her preference of opera music, since she was a kitten. My doctor was very impressed with the results. Gary LaMers Palm Springs, CA
Editor’s Note: Accidents such as Brittany’s can happen in moment. Luckily, massage can help an animal through the recovery process by improving circulation and facilitating healing. In Brittany’s case, the opera music was definitely a bonus! Correction: In our “Pet Food Recall” article in the June/July 2007 issue, we mistakenly gave the wrong name for AAFCO. The correct name is Association of American Feed Control Officials.
Address your letters to: Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to: us: PMB 168 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 can: 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com
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Underdog Hits Silver Screen “There’s no need to fear, Underdog is here!” Those who grew up in the 1960s might remember this rhyme from the popular animated TV series Underdog. Now, this fearless canine superhero comes to the silver screen in a liveaction Disney recreation of the classic toon. Here’s the story: after an accident in the lab of mad scientist Dr. Simon Barsinister (played by Peter Dinklage), a beagle finds himself with superhuman powers. Voiced by comedian Jason Lee, Underdog vows to protect Capitol City and, in particular, a beautiful spaniel named Polly Purebread (voiced by Academy Award nominee Amy Adams), from Barsinister’s plotting. Underdog comes to theatres August 3.
Rabies Challenge Fund Gets A Boost As you may already know, the Rabies Challenge Fund was established in 2005 to determine the duration of immunity of rabies vaccines, thereby prompting a change in current legislation requiring dogs and cats to be vaccinated every one to three years. A big step was taken towards raising the funds needed for the study when two anonymous donors recently pledged to match all donations of $100 or more to $20,000 until November 1. Find out more at www.RabiesChallengeFund.org.
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Goodbye, Gretchen
Vet Visit Stats Ever wondered what the most common reasons for vet visits are? After reviewing all its medical claims received during 2006, Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) identified the following top ten reasons why dogs and cats were taken to the vet.
Photo: Genesis Awards
The animal welfare world lost one of its top movers and shakers when actress and animal advocate Gretchen Wyler died on May 27 from complications stemming from her battle with breast cancer. She was 75. Alongside a busy acting career, which encompassed numerous Broadway shows, television series, film roles and club and concert appearances, Gretchen spent 40 years working to protect animals and raising awareness of animal cruelty. She was also the founder of the prestigious Genesis Awards, which annually honors the media and entertainment industry for heightening public understanding of animal protection issues.
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“Hollywoof� comes to Ontario On April 17, the city of Brampton hosted “Hooray for Hollywoof�, a major fund-raiser presented by Southern Ontario Animal Rescue (SOAR), an organization committed to rescuing animals that have been abused, neglected, or abandoned/rejected due to ill health, abnormalities or old age. The highlight of the Hollywood-inspired evening was the Canadian premiere of Diva Dog – Pit Bull on Wheels, the true story of Coral, a pit bull who was rescued from abuse only to be paralyzed by a hit-and-run driver. Through the use of a doggie wheelchair, Coral faces life with a triumphant will to live and touches people from all walks of life with her indomitable spirit, unconditional love, strength and determination. With the help of her celebrity fans, including actors Linda Blair, Debra Wilson and Maria Conchita Alonso, Coral is becoming the official “spokesdog� for all disabled animals. Dressed as their favorite Hollywood stars or characters, “Hooray for Hollywoof� attendees enjoyed a movie screening, awards ceremony and hors d’oeurves. Learn more at www.divadogthemovie.com or www.soar.designimpact.ca.
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Foul Play Law enforcement officials recently raided the Surrey County, Virginia property of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and found 70 neglected and malnourished dogs, including at least 60 pit bulls, many of whom bore signs of being used for dogfighting. Animal groups are urging the public to write to Falcons owner and CEO Arthur Blank, and ask that Vick be suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, and released from the team if the charges are confirmed. Visit http://getactive.peta.org/campaign/afalcons_vick?c=an_enews to send your letter.
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Winnie the Pooh has two new friends. They’re six-year-old Darby and her loveable puppy Buster. The two characters join Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet, and the rest of A. A. Milne’s beloved protagonists on the new CG animated series My Friends Tigger & Pooh, which premiered on Disney Channel in May. Buster is a mixed breed who helps his friends solve mysteries in the Hundred Acre Wood, but like any other puppy, his curiosity sometimes gets him into trouble. animal wellness
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AKC Beefs Up Inspections Protocol IS YOUR PET UNDERGOING
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To help protect the welfare of purebred dogs, the American Kennel Club has announced a new protocol for its inspections program. For the first time ever, breeders who register four to six litters annually with AKC will be randomly selected for inspection. AKC formerly focused on breeders registering seven or more litters annually; lowering the threshold will allow them to inspect breeders who reduce their number of litters in order to avoid inspection. Protocols remaining in place include annual inspections of all breeders of 25 or more litters, inspection of pet shops and distributors, and inspections based on complaints with documentation.
Salmon for sight This just in – eating salmon can help maintain eye health. Experts have found that consuming fish rich in Omega-3s, such as salmon, can cut the risk of agerelated macular degeneration in humans by as much as 40%. Although no studies have so far been done on the link between Omega-3s and eyesight in animals, there’s certainly no harm in making salmon or salmon oil part of your dog or cat’s diet.
Apartments Animals
&
Finding rented accommodation that accepts dogs and cats isn’t easy. Although a recent survey by Apartments.com found that more than 84% of renters have animals, more than a third of respondents said it was very difficult to find an apartment that would allow animals. The Apartments.com website includes a feature that helps you search for pet-friendly accommodations across the U.S.
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Top
bone problems in growing pups by Shawn Messonnier, DVM
W
e usually associate bone and joint problems with older dogs, but puppies also have their own skeletal issues. Though not as commonly encountered as arthritis in older animals, there are three conditions we see with some frequency in puppies: hip dysplasia, osteochondritis (OCD), and patellar luxation.
1. Hip dysplasia
By far the most well known joint problem, hip dysplasia is most commonly seen in larger dogs, but can occur in any breed. Those commonly affected include Labrador and golden retrievers, Newfoundlands, great Pyrenees, great Danes, Doberman pinschers, and of course, German shepherds. Hip dysplasia results in looseness of the hip joints. While some dogs do not show symptoms, those with severely loose hips show signs of lameness, usually in one hip, though both can be affected. This condition can affect dogs of any age, but is often a common cause of lameness in young puppies. It has both a genetic and environmental component.
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Large dogs intended to be used for breeding should be screened via the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and preferably PennHip testing to determine their hip structure. Those with signs of dysplasia should not be bred. Even adult dogs with normal hip structure can still have puppies with bad hips, so all puppies should be checked for hip dysplasia. This is easily done at the time of spaying and neutering at four to six months of age. A simple radiograph of the hips, done when the puppy is sedated, usually allows diagnosis. Treatment varies with the severity of the disease. Puppies found to have dysplasia during routine screening, but who are not showing symptoms, often need no treatment other than a joint supplement to minimize cartilage damage. Puppies with clinical signs can be managed with restricted exercise, joint supplements, and limited use of NSAIDS to control pain. Those that do not respond to medical therapy will usually require surgery. The type of surgery done depends on the skill and preference of the surgeon, the cost of the procedure, the age of the
puppy at the time of diagnosis, the degree of hip looseness, and the dog’s size. •FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) involves surgically removing the head of the femur (the long bone of the leg involved in the disease). This relieves pain and creates a false joint between the femur and acetabulum (hip bone). Puppies do well with this procedure, although the leg will be slightly shorter than its opposite and a slight non-painful limp may persist. •TPO (Triple Pelvic Osteotomy) is a procedure in which the pelvis is cut in three places and then rotated to give greater coverage to the head of the femur. This resolves the dysplasia and pain and returns the dog to normal function. It is a very involved operation and not every surgeon is trained to do it. It is also limited based on the size and age of the dog, as
well as the amount of dysplasia present at the time of surgery. •THO (Total Hip Replacement) is the gold standard of hip surgery. Since it is also the most expensive (you almost need some gold to afford it as it can cost $2,000 to $3,000 per hip) it is not an option for everyone. In this procedure, your dog literally receives a new hip (head and neck of the femur and new acetabulum). Again, not every surgeon is trained to perform it and not every dog is an ideal candidate. The complication rate (post-surgical infection, breakdown of the new hip) is about 5%, higher than for most veterinary surgeries. Still, it is my surgery of choice for many of my patients and gives excellent results in most cases. •Pectineus Myotomy is an older (some might say outdated) procedure that involves cutting the pectineus muscle of the thigh to relieve the muscle’s pull on the femur. Most surgeons have abandoned the procedure; arthritis can still occur since the
hip looseness is still present. However, as a low cost alternative, it can offer relief to affected dogs and is easy to perform with few complications. (The main complication is that the dog is still showing signs of pain and lameness.)
2. Osteochondritis (OCD)
This is another common joint problem in growing puppies of larger breeds. It typically affects the same breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia. OCD is primarily a disease of growing cartilage. It develops due to reduced blood supply to a localized area of cartilage. The cartilage fails to mineralize (become bone) and the piece of cartilage separates from the surrounding bone, causing pain and lameness.
While any joint can be affected with OCD, those most commonly involved include the shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle. Joint supplements, herbs, and homeopathics can help control pain and nourish the normal cartilage and joint structures, but ultimately surgery is needed to remove the malformed and detached piece of cartilage from the affected joints.
3. Patellar luxation
So far we’ve been talking about bone and joint problems in puppies of larger breeds. One particular problem that most commonly affects smaller breeds is congenital (present at birth) patellar luxation. Breeds that typically suffer from this malady include poodles, Pomeranians, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas. The patella is the
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Help protect your puppy Since these conditions are congenital, it’s impossible to totally prevent them. But there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of your puppy developing problems. •Rapid growth and excessive exercise are often implicated in the development of these joint disorders. Slightly underfeeding puppies, keeping them lean, and avoiding excessive supplementation with calcium and phosphorus can minimize joint problems during the growth spurt all puppies experience. •While exercise is important, hard or forced exercise can damage joints. Work with your veterinarian to put together a safe, healthy exercise regimen. •Using joint supplements in all puppies, especially those of larger breeds, can minimize problems. Consult with a holistic vet for information on the best product for your young companion.
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technical term for the kneecap. In patellar luxation, the patella dislocates (luxates) when the knee joint is flexed and extended. As the joint moves, the patella usually pops right back into place, never bothering the dog or causing lameness. The good news about patellar luxation is that it rarely ever causes the dog a problem, so treatment isn’t usually needed. Often, people with these dogs don’t even know there’s a problem. I usually diagnose patella luxation during annual physical examinations and point it out to the client, who had not been aware of any abnormality. In some cases, treatment will be required. The current recommendation is to surgically stabilize the patella via
one of several surgical techniques. Surgery is only necessary for those dogs in which the patella does not slide back into place and causes persistent lameness. Following surgery, a good joint supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, or perna mussels is important to minimize the chance of the pet developing arthritis in the future. Just like children, puppies can experience growing pains as they get bigger. In young dogs, however, the problem can sometimes be more serious than a few aches and pains. Being aware of potential bone and joint issues, having your puppy screened for these conditions, and taking steps to help minimize them (see sidebar) is your best defense.
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animal wellness
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The
cat’s meow
excessive vocalization can be a cry for help by Elizabeth Hodgkins, DVM, Esq.
“Toller used to be a very quiet cat, but now he meows all the time,” says Cheryl. “He seems healthy, but I can’t help wondering if something’s wrong.” One of the most interesting things about cats is their wide diversity of vocalization patterns, and their interesting repertoire of mews, meows and howls. Some, like the Siamese and other Oriental breeds, seem to enjoy “gabbing” almost incessantly, like talkative children. Others are almost completely silent, choosing to keep their own counsel and rarely expressing themselves vocally. The majority of cats fall somewhere in between; speaking when hungry or agitated, and maintaining their calm, silent demeanor otherwise. Certainly, cats are very individual in their vocalization, and their caregivers
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animal wellness
soon come to understand what to expect. The time to be concerned is when your cat’s normal pattern changes, especially when a once-quiet cat begins to “talk” a lot more than he used to.
Physical causes Cats are among the most stoic of animals, but severe discomfort or pain can prompt them to try to communicate this distress to those around them. If your cat becomes especially talkative, and remains so for more
than a few hours, you should seek veterinary assistance to rule out any disease or injury. Urinary tract blockage is the most serious medical cause of excessive crying. This is a medical emergency of the first order, and may be accompanied by frequent visits to the litter box, or even attempts to urinate outside the box, with no production of urine. See your veterinarian immediately.
Pain in other abdominal organs can also cause a cat to cry out repeatedly. Trauma to these organs from a fall, or an infection of the lining of the abdomen called peritonitis, can cause enough pain and anxiety to make a cat restless and much more vocal than usual, especially when the abdomen is touched or the cat is picked up. Abscesses are infections that usually occur under the skin, often on the back or hindquarters of the cat, or near the tail where it joins the body. They can be extremely painful when the cat tries to sit or lie down, or when someone tries to pet him or pick him up. Changes in a cat’s ability to see, hear, maintain his balance, or think clearly can cause enough anxiety that the cat
Hint
In unaltered felines, excessive vocalization most commonly means the cat is calling for a mate. Having your cat spayed or neutered will resolve the issue. If your cat is already spayed or neutered and still seems to be crying more than normal, he could have a medical or behavioral problem that needs to be addressed. will call out repeatedly. Concussions from trauma, ear infections, high blood pressure, strokes, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney problems and many other diseases can cause such changes. Your veterinarian can check for any of these
problems and determine a course of action once there is a diagnosis.
Behavioral causes If your veterinarian rules out disease or injury as the cause of your cat’s sudden talkativeness, the next step is to evaluate the cat for behavioral problems. The list of psychological triggers for excessive vocalization is long, but the following are those we see most often. Major changes in an insecure cat’s environment can create so much anxiety and stress that she will act out with abnormal behaviors, including constant crying. Moving house is a very significant stress for an adult cat, as is the introduction of new humans or felines into the existing family structure. A cat animal wellness
25
that is tightly bonded to one family member will react badly to a shift in that person’s attention to others, like a new baby or spouse. The loss of a companion cat or dog can also cause the one left behind to feel great loneliness and fear, with unusual crying as a result.
“
The loss
Therapies for behavioral crying
Alternative modalities such as homeopathic remedies and flower essences can be helpful for cats dealing with bereavement, a change of environment, and similar issues causing stress and excessive crying. Rescue Remedy is an excellent flower essence to have on hand for acute stress, while individual remedies such as Aspen and Mimulus (for fear and anxiety), Heather (for separation anxiety) and Walnut (for change) can also be helpful. Flower essences are safe and gentle and can be added to water or applied topically. For homeopathy, it’s best to consult with an experienced holistic vet when choosing remedies and dosages. In cases where there seems to be no clear physical or behavioral cause for the increased vocalization, an animal communicator may be able to help get to the root of the issue. 26
animal wellness
of a companion
cat or dog can also cause the one left
behind to feel great
”
loneliness and fear,
with unusual crying as a result.
For reasons that may not be readily apparent, cats sometimes seem to develop obsessivecompulsive traits even when their environment has not greatly changed.
These may show up as self-mutilation like hair pulling, sudden shyness or excessive boldness, overeating or loss of appetite, and other changes in normal behavior. They can also cause her to become unusually needy and vocally demanding of attention, food, opportunities to leave or enter the home and the like. This type of sudden excessive vocalization can be a bit difficult to diagnose and the cause may be impossible to identify. In cases where the cause cannot be identified and corrected, some of the antidepressant medications used in humans may be helpful in alleviating the cat’s anxiety.
Older cats, in their teens and beyond, may actually experience a kind of senile dementia, although this phenomenon has not been well studied in felines. Over a period of a few weeks or months, you may
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“
Over a period of a few weeks
or months, you may recognize subtle signs that an older cat’s memory is failing. The cat may suddenly seem to become “lost” in a very
”
familiar home, wandering through the house and calling for company.
recognize subtle signs that an older cat’s memory is failing. The cat may suddenly seem to become “lost” in a very familiar home, wandering through the house and calling for company.
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animal wellness
These cats usually have normal vision, but they nonetheless act as though they don’t know where they are, at least transiently. We do not have good treatments for senility in cats, but identifying the problem can help you understand how to care for the cat to reduce her sense of being lost and in danger. After having her vet eliminate any physical problems for Toller’s crying, Cheryl suddenly realized that her feline friend might be upset by some renovations she’d had done in her home. “I’d moved the bedroom and home office into different areas and Toller didn’t like it.” With some extra TLC from his family, Toller gradually got used to the changes and calmed down again. Adds Cheryl, “It was a good lesson in learning how to be aware and understand your animal.”
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Sleep tight Doesn’t your dog deserve a comfy bed to sleep in? Woofa-Pedic offers a line of comfortable, supportive, attractive canine beds and sofas, including the new Designer Series Health Assure sofa. It features pocket coils, a tried and true technology that adjust to the precise contours of your dog’s body, and soothing, muscle-relaxing Memory Foam that eases pressure points and arthritic discomfort. A waterproof inner cover traps odors and seals out dust mites, while ergonomic bolsters support your dog’s head. Health Assure sofa – $189.99 – $339.99
A good grooming program for your companion should include regular baths. Bio-Groom can help with their complete line of gentle, natural shampoos and conditioners for dogs and cats, specially formulated to address a wide range of needs. Selections for dogs include Herbal Groom Shampoo, fortified with a blend of botanical extracts to revitalize your dog’s hair and skin. Ultra Black and Super White Shampoos are created to naturally enhance coat colors without bleaches or dyes, while the new White Ginger Natural Scents Shampoo and Cologne leaves your dog smelling fresh and fragrant. 8 to 12 oz. – $8.70 – $9.30 www.biogroom.com
A refreshing idea Making sure your dogs always have access to fresh water just got easier. The new Critter Cooler Pet Refreshment Station from Critter Concepts uses gravity to carry water to three sturdy, elevated bowls. The front bowl holds two quarts while the two detachable side bowls each have a 1.5-quart capacity. The 3” locking wheels are designed to hold the station securely in place. The Critter Cooler is easy to fill and clean, and the water storage containers come in three sizes, so your companions will never be without a drink of water when they want one. Great for multiple dog households. 3.5 gal. – $89.95 5 gal. – $99.95 6.5 gal. – $119.95 www.critterconcepts.com animal wellness
29
King of the road How to keep your best friend safe by Ann Brightman
T
he stats say it all. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA), over 40% of those who have dogs take them along when they travel. The bad news is that 80% of that group fails to “buckle up” their companions and protect them from injury in the event of an accident. It’s hard to say why so many people take a casual attitude towards car safety for their animal companions, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to change. Along with
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animal wellness
making sure your dog or cat stays in one piece in case of a fender bender, there are a number of additional things to keep in mind when taking your companion anywhere in the car, no matter how long or short the journey.
Buckle him up
in case of a mishap. Many pet supply stores now carry canine seat belts in different styles and sizes. Alternatively, in a pinch, you can also fasten and tighten the middle back seat belt as far as it will go, and loop your dog’s leash through it - just make sure he can move comfortably and that he’s wearing a harness, not a collar, to protect his neck and throat.
Your dog probably enjoys being loose in the car, but it’s an unwise practice. An accident could hurl A deploying airbag can injure or even kill him into the windshield, while an animal, so your best friend should ride an over-excited dog can suddenly in the back rather than the front seat. jump into your lap Small dogs and cats are best transported and cause you to lose control of in a sturdy carrier; the carrier itself the vehicle. Invest in a dog seat belt should be secured by a seat belt – these comfortable restraint devices so it doesn’t shoot off the seat in allow the dog to easily sit, lie down and case you have to brake suddenly. change position, yet help prevent injury
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animal wellness
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It’s not uncommon to see dogs riding in the backs of pickup trucks, or with their heads out half-open car windows. While it’s true that some dogs seem to love this mode of travel, it’s not good for them. Dust, gravel and other flying debris can cause injury or infection in the eyes and ears, plus there’s always the risk that the dog might jump or fall out on the road. Keep your animal inside the vehicle. If it’s hot, turn on the air conditioning and direct the vents towards the back seat, or open the windows just enough for the breeze to blow through. You might also consider installing a sunshade.
Some animals overcome motion sickness with time, but others may not. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help settle his stomach.
the inside of the carrier, just in case. If all else fails and your animal still gets queasy, put his comfort first and arrange to leave him at home in the care of a trusted friend, relative or pet sitter.
For the hyper ones Photo: "Cody" by Nancy Hori, Photo contest entry.
Heads in!
• Avoid feeding him within three hours of the trip and give him ample opportunity to relieve himself before you set out.
• Ginger can help soothe the nausea
When the heat is on You’ve heard it before, but it’s always worth repeating… never leave your animal shut in a parked car, especially in hot weather. Even in the shade and with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside a stationary car can rapidly soar to unbearable levels on a warm summer day; even when it’s below 80°F outside, the temperature in a parked car can skyrocket to 110ºF in less than half an hour. If you see an animal locked inside a vehicle on a hot day, especially if he looks distressed, contact the police or your local humane society immediately.
What about motion sickness? Just like people, some animals get carsick. But because dogs and cats can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well, we may not realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.
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animal wellness
associated with motion sickness – 1/8 to a full capsule of powdered ginger can be given to a dog, depending on his size, and just a sprinkling for a cat.
• Some people find that Rescue Remedy administered before and during the trip helps – just rub it into your animal’s ears or paw pads, or give a few drops by mouth.
• Another good flower essence for motion sickness is Scleranthus.
When you’re first introducing your companion to car travel, keep trips short and watch him for signs of nausea, such as lethargy or drooling. • The homeopathic remedy Aconite 30C can also be useful.
• Be sure to take a towel or other washable covering for the back seat or
We’ve all known dogs that bark hysterically at every passing car, or cats that never stop yowling from start to finish of a trip. Rescue Remedy has a soothing effect on the hyperactive behavior caused by nerves or high spirits. If the behavior stems from anxiety, Mimulus or Cherry Plum can also help. Soft music can also calm a stressed or excited animal. Many respond positively to some gentle classical or easy listening music while riding in the car, so bring a handful of CDs along. Just don’t crank the volume up too loudly.
Take breaks Depending on how far you’re going, it’s imperative to give animals, dogs especially, regular breaks. Stopping every two hours to let your dog relieve himself, stretch his legs, and have a drink of water is a good rule of thumb. Make sure he has adequate ID and is securely leashed before opening the door of the vehicle. If you’re parked on a street or by the side of a road, always lead your dog in and out of the vehicle on the passenger side, away from traffic. If you’re taking your cat a long distance, you’ll need to bring a litter box along. Whether you’re going on a two-week road trip or a short spin to the vet’s office or local dog park, keeping these tips in mind will help ensure a smooth, safe ride for your beloved companion.
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holistic veterinary advice
Talking with dr. martin goldstein
Dr. Marty Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for 30 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. You can also hear him on “Ask Martha’s Vet with Dr Marty” on Sirius Satellite Radio network channel 112 every Monday at 8PM EST (www.sirius.com). Send your
Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, Dr. Marty responds to questions in his column We regret he cannot respond to every question. questions for
e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com
Q
My 12-year-old Pembroke Welsh corgi has been getting sebaceous cysts all over her body for the last few years. They are getting worse all the time. They are huge and look like tumors. People are almost afraid to touch her. I had her on a raw food diet for a year, but it did not help. She has had numerous ailments all her life, including very bad inhalant allergies. I feed her only the best quality food and treats. Can you help?
A
One of the skin’s major roles is to eliminate bodily wastes. The more inefficient the metabolic functioning is, the greater the quantity of resulting waste byproducts. It’s good that you’ve got your corgi on a raw diet, but she may not be efficiently processing this good food. It’s similar to a car that’s out of tune being unable to utilize high quality gasoline. This is where I like dietary supplementation. Digestive enzymes like Prozyme and antioxidants like Cell Advance by Vetri-Science are two of my choices. There are numerous homeopathic and herbal formulations that will address the associated allergy condition. You can find these on the internet or through health foods stores, especially ones
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animal wellness
specializing in pet products, but it’s always best to work with a veterinarian who specializes in alternative therapies. Also, be cautious of and research giving her further vaccinations. Lastly, in my practice, we are seeing benefits with the results we obtain from food allergy testing based on blood.
mix who cycles twice a year. She has had several “false pregnancies” within the past 18 months. Our holistic vet gave her a homeopathic remedy and advised us to spay her. My husband and I tend toward not spaying and have attempted to research the pros and cons of keeping her intact. We have found scant information. What is your advice?
Q
A
A
Q
Q
A
One of my cats (domestic shorthair) takes a very long time to urinate. He has been like this since he was a kitten. He is now eight years old. It doesn’t seem to cause him any problems or discomfort, but it seems odd that he would squat for about a minute in order to urinate. I never thought about it until I read that it should only take a few seconds for a cat to go. He also only urinates a large amount about twice a day. Is it just that he’s holding it too long? Since he has been like this since kittenhood and it doesn’t cause him problems, I would think it’s anatomical and “the way he is”. But I would recommend having both his blood and urine tested by a veterinarian to make certain his kidney function is good. We have a six-year-old intact Yorkie-Chihuahua
only.
It’s true that spaying is not “natural”, but neither are many of the illnesses that have been created by the actions of man in his domesticated animal population. I have found spaying to be beneficial to health, specifically in reference to mammary cancer and infected uterine conditions. This is especially true when a dog is already exhibiting false pregnancies. I have a two-year-old Siamese cat who has blood in his urine. He has been on the heaviest antibiotic, even though his urine sample did not reveal infection or crystals. He has also had an x-ray, which showed nothing. Can you give me some advice as to what might be causing this? The bladder is just a sensitive holding container for urine, which is a potentially toxic waste product of the body. The
rule of thumb is: the poorer the quality of food, the greater the waste content of the urine. You can check my new website, www.drmarty.com, for recommendations on feeding. I like treating these conditions with homeopathics such as Urinary Aid by Professional Complementary Health Products, BHI’s Uri-Cleanse and/or UriControl, and herbal formulations like UT Strength by Vetri-Science.
glands too frequently. I don’t mind occasional gland squeezing when there is a problem, if that brings more long term relief. When an actual infection is lodged in the glands, having your veterinarian pack the glands with an ointment used to treat ear infections can work wonders. I also have seen beneficial results from the use of ingredients that bulk up the stool, such as bran. However, if you go this route and it works, I recommend using it only sporadically.
Q
Q
A
A
My two-year-old dachshund has an anal gland problem. Recently I noticed he expelled fluid, enough to form a large stain on a pillow. This has happened several more times over the last few months. I brought it to my vet’s attention, but he said it was normal. I have never had this problem with my other dogs. Could it be cause for concern? The vet said I could drain the glands a bit every few weeks with a paper towel but cautioned that doing this too much could cause the glands to fill more. I talked to another person who had to have her Chihuahua’s glands drained monthly all his life. Help! I agree with your veterinarian about expressing the
What kind of grooming products do you recommend for cats? I do not usually bathe my cats, but I think they could use one every few months. I am looking for a shampoo that has wholesome/natural ingredients and will not harm my cats. I know that essential oils (used in some shampoos) may cause heinz-body anemia, and there are other ingredients that may cause other illnesses. What ingredients should a pet owner (cat owner in particular) stay away from? There are so many good products on the market. Yes, with cats, I would stay away from essential oils. Otherwise, I would just look for shampoos that claim “all natural”, “fully bio-degradable”, etc. Some of the more
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holistic veterinary advice
common acceptable ingredients are oatmeal, aloe vera and calendula. The product we sell at our clinic is Earthbath’s Shampoo and Conditioner for cats.
So monitor the process and your puppy’s growth and health. To answer your last question, I have seen vegetarian diets improve skin problems, actually make them worse, or have no effect either way.
Q A
My golden retriever has glaucoma where his eye has turned blue. Even with a series of eye drops given by the vet the pressure still is going up. I recently started giving him phosphorus 30c and glutathione three times a day. I do not want him to go blind.
Aloe vera
Q A
I have a five-month-old pug Calendula flower puppy that I am trying to switch to a total vegetarian diet. When do I start to add omega 3s, plus anything else? Also, will this diet increase skin conditions? You can add the omegas now. I prefer using fish, especially imported salmon oils [flax seed oil if you are strictly vegetarian]. You can also provide a good vitamin/mineral supplement. One word of caution: I have seen dogs do well and live long, healthy lives on vegetarian diets, but they are ancestrally carnivores.
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animal wellness
This is a difficult condition to give advice on by magazine. In my practice, I would consider using Visioplex by Progressive Labs, and Oculotrophin by Standard Process Labs. Animal Nutritional Technologies, the company I am associated with and which works directly with veterinarians, has two products we use. One is called Eye Support Formula and the other is a homeopathic called Glaucoma Drops. You could also research consulting with a veterinary acupuncturist.
Q A
My dog is prone to staph and skin infections. Is it okay to give him oil of oregano? I have successfully used and like oregano oil, as well as olive leaf extract. We use Olivet by VetriScience Labs. Also useful are propolis, both orally
and in topical preparations, and the homeopathic remedies by Heel/BHI Infection or Mercurius-Heel.
Q
My 14 year-old male black Lab has had a seasonal “cough” ever since I got him, The vet told me to give him Robitussin, which I hate doing. Last fall, he began having the cough all the time. The vet x-rayed him and ran blood tests. Everything came up fine. She started him on Cipro and theophylline, but he still coughed. She sent me to a specialist who put him back on antibiotics and another pill that was for diarrhea but had a cough suppressant. Although he had initial relief, he is still coughing. I did some research and found that chronic bronchitis in dogs is not curable. The article I read suggested hydrocodone. The breeder of my other Lab uses a lot of holistic remedies and suggested a mixture of mullein leaf, coltsfoot, grindella tarrow, marshmallow root and valerian mixed with honey. Both dogs eat Regal and get a Pet Tab, brewer’s yeast, half a chewable vitamin C, and a fish oil capsule once a day.
A
I do not like suppressing coughs unless absolutely necessary. I have had a lot of success treating these types of conditions with herbals and homeopathics. See how the herbal you’ve mentioned above works. If it doesn’t, you could consider two of the several we use: Pinellia 16 (especially if there is an asthma component), and Astragalus 16. Both are from the Seven Forests line of Oriental herbs.
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8
ways to soothe
separation anxiety
C
by Christina Shusterich
C
arolyn recently adopted a lovely young shepherd mix from her local shelter. Hailey is a gorgeous dog, loves people, and is anxious to please. But there’s a
problem. “The first time I left her alone for a few hours, I came home to find feathers all over the bedroom floor,” says Carolyn. “Hailey had pulled one of the pillows off my bed and ripped it to shreds.” Carolyn also found a chewed-up water bottle in the
to severe. It usually develops within the first two years of life, but can occur at any age. It often appears in older dogs as their senses diminish and they become increasingly dependent on their human caregivers.
kitchen, and a mess of scratches along the bottom of her front door. “I felt awful, thinking how distressed she must have been.”
Hailey’s behavior is a sure sign of separation anxiety, a common problem with many dogs. It’s characterized by anxiety or panic behaviors that occur when a dog is left alone or separated from her human companion. These can include:
•A traumatic event, such as a severe thunderstorm, that occurs during your absence
•Destructiveness •House soiling •Excessive barking, whining or howling •Pacing •Excessive salivation •Depression •Hyperactivity •Self-mutilation
•Loss or addition of a family member
The causes are many and varied and sometimes originate with experiences the dog had before she entered your life: •Previous abandonment or loss of human companion
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animal wellness
•Sudden change in lifestyle, environment or schedule
•Early separation from the mother •Acquiring a new dog or puppy and spending most of the initial adjustment time with her, then abruptly returning to a work schedule Separation anxiety can range from mild
What do to about it
1.
Avoid spending all your time with a new dog or puppy, then suddenly returning to a schedule where you’re away all day. Instead, gradually accustom the dog to your absence by leaving her alone for five minutes, then ten, and so on up to a period of 1½ hours.
2.
Create positive associations with your absence. Provide your dog with new toys prior to your departure. You can also give her a Kong or hollow bone filled with frozen peanut butter or healthy kibbles; it’ll not only engage and focus her attention, but will give her positive reinforcement for working the food out rather than engaging in anxiety behaviors. Be sure to also occasionally
provide her with new toys when you’re staying home, so they don’t become a cue to your dog that you are going out.
3.
If you confine your dog when you’re not at home, create positive associations with the area. Crates can exacerbate separation anxiety, so putting your dog in a safe room is often a better choice. Frequently spend time and play with your dog in this room when you’re at home.
4.
Give him a job! “Find it” is a great game your dog can play by himself while you’re gone. It consists of your dog searching for stuffed Kongs or bones that you have hidden. To keep her occupied, use more than one Kong; they don’t all have to be completely filled with treats. Be sure there is a variety of positive stimulation for your dog. Try providing her with 20 toys and rotating them weekly in groups of ten. “Find it”, chasing, chewing and playing with toys utilize natural dog behaviors and will give her a task to accomplish in your absence.
5.
Try to ignore your dog between ten to fifteen minutes before you leave, and another ten to fifteen minutes after returning home. This minimizes overly emotional departures and greetings, and keeps them matter-of-fact and par for the course.
6.
Increase your dog’s exercise before you leave the house. Going on a brisk morning walk, for example, can help her be tired and relaxed while you are gone.
7.
Randomize and dissociate your departure cues. Dogs with separation anxiety are highly aware of each action you take before going out, such as showering, putting on makeup, shoes or coats, picking up keys and so on. Regularly go through every step you routinely take prior to leaving – and then don’t leave. Weekends are a good time to do this.
8.
Consider leaving on the TV or having some relaxing music play while you’re out – studies have shown that classical music soothes dogs. Choose something you also listen to while at home, so your dog doesn’t associate the music with your absence. These tips can help any dog, but particularly those at risk for developing separation anxiety or who are beginning to become anxious. If your dog’s problem is severe, however, he may need the help of an experienced behavior specialist. “For Hailey, I got some professional help and also tried some of the suggestions I learned,” says Carolyn. “It took awhile, but she’s a lot better now. The other day, when I gave her a Kong filled with treats, she took it right to her favorite spot and didn’t even look up when I went out the door!” animal wellness
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Eat & Run! Good nutrition for busy dogs
by Jean Hofve, DVM
During the summer, Bob and his border collie Tike spend nearly every weekend practicing or participating in agility events. Sheba, meanwhile, is a speciallytrained German shepherd who assists with sometimes grueling search-and rescue efforts. These are just two examples of the growing number of dogs involved in various sporting and working activities. Not surprisingly, these busy canines have nutritional needs that differ from those of the average household companion. The vast majority of working and sporting dogs are involved in what are called intermediate activities. These are of low to moderate intensity and duration (minutes to hours) and include: •Agility/competition •Hunting/tracking •Livestock management •Police/guard/detection •Search/rescue •Service
Key nutrients for the active canine Active dogs need more food, and larger quantities of certain nutrients, than sedentary dogs. Typically, during their most active season, canine athletes need two to five times more energy (calories) than inactive dogs.
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Protein: Dogs use mainly glycogen and fat for energy during exercise; protein is used primarily for anabolism (synthesis). The amino acids in protein are used as building blocks for tissues, hormones, and enzymes. Too much dietary protein can result in excessive protein catabolism (breakdown). The active dog’s diet should contain enough good quality protein to amply supply his structural/repair needs, but more than that is not a good idea.
are able to utilize it when it’s present in their diet. Less dietary carbohydrate produces better performance for activities lasting more than a minute or two. Fat: The most important source of energy for intermediate canine athletes, fat contains more than twice as much energy as protein and carbohydrate. Increasing fat is the only practical way to increase the energy content of a food. A high-fat diet is more palatable, and improves endurance. An adequate intake of essential fatty acids (at least 2% of the dry matter content of the diet – see sidebar to determine how to calculate) and a balance of unsaturated and saturated fats are crucial.
Hint
Almost any breed can participate in sports like hiking or agility, but some are better adapted to strenuous exercise than others (see sidebar). Carbohydrate: Adult dogs have no dietary need for carbohydrate, but they
Water: The canine athlete typically loses far more water than electrolytes during strenuous exercise, so it is vital to keep him well hydrated. Very hot and very cold weather both exacerbate the dehydrating effects of exercise. Dogs
Photo courtesy of the American Kennel Club
who work long hours where constant water is not available should be offered water at least three times a day. For most dogs under most conditions, free access to plain water is best.
Hint
For intermediate athletes, feed a high quality diet containing 15% to 30% fat and 22% to 32% protein; higher levels of fat and protein are better for longerduration or higher-intensity work. The quality of ingredients and the food’s overall digestibility are extremely important for working and sporting dogs. Poor digestibility results in more waste, and less nutrition available to the dog. One or more named meats should constitute the main protein content of the food, as opposed to by-products, grain proteins (corn and other gluten meals, rice and soy proteins), and meat and bone meals. Similarly, named fat sources, such as chicken fat or fish oil, are likely
to be better quality than the more generic “animal” fat. Many vegetable oils are acceptable, but since these are usually unsaturated fats that can increase damage to cell membranes under stress, it’s wise to balance them with adequate saturated fats.
Supplements to support the active dog Vitamins and minerals: Exercise increases the need for B-complex and vitamin C. Use a balanced B-complex containing 4 to 5 mg of niacin for a 35-pound dog. With vitamin C, give 50 mg per day for a small dog and 500 mg for a large dog. Vitamin E prevents oxidative damage to cell membranes; give about 50 IU per day for a small dog, 400 IU for a large dog. Selenium works with vitamin E, and may also be supplemented, but it can be toxic in excess; 100 mcg (micrograms) per day for a 35pound dog is plenty. Omega-3 fatty acids: These unsaturated essential fatty acids have important antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects. Fish oil, cod liver
Good sports Keep in mind that changes in diet are needed during the training period as well as during the athletic season. •Diet changes should begin at least six weeks ahead of the exercise season. •Both the composition and quantity of the food should be changed gradually along with a progressively increasing duration and intensity of exercise. •It takes about six to eight weeks for the body to alter its metabolism. •The body will adapt with an increase in bone and muscle mass, density of mitochondria (the energy-makers within cells) in muscle tissue, and plasma volume. •Some experts recommend not feeding a big meal during the four hours prior to an event, but small snacks during the day are okay. animal wellness
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Calculating the dry matter content of pet food ingredients Figuring out the dry matter content of an ingredient is the only way to compare foods in terms of the percentage of each nutrient. The Guaranteed Analysis panel is the place to start. You’ll get a far more accurate idea of the food’s real value when you factor out the food’s moisture content. First, subtract the moisture content (as listed in the Guaranteed Analysis) from 100%. This gives you the total dry matter (TDM) of the food. For instance, dry foods containing 10% moisture have 90% TDM. Most canned foods contain about 78% moisture, so their TDM content is about 22%. Then, just divide the ingredient in question, such as fat or protein, by the TDM to get the dry matter content of that ingredient. For example, if a canned food lists protein at 10% in the Guaranteed Analysis, yet its moisture content is 75%, the actual dry matter content of the protein in this particular food is 7/(100 – 75) or 28%
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oil (without added vitamins A and D), and flaxseed oil all provide Omega-3 fatty acids, although animal sources are better utilized by dogs. Give 1/4 tsp per 15 pounds. Add a little more vitamin E when supplementing any oils or fats. Antioxidants: Because oxidative damage and oxygen free radicals increase with exercise, it may be beneficial to supplement with antioxidants. These include vitamin C and E (see above) as well as carotenoids such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein; and flavonoids like anthocyanin and quercetin. Human supplements are based on 150 pounds; the dog dose should be proportional by weight. Enzymes and probiotics: Digestive enzymes and probiotics like acidophilus help the dog digest food more completely, and help prevent stressrelated tummy problems such as “nervous” vomiting and diarrhea.
Cartilage precursors: Since nearly all athletic activities involve running, jumping, or other stress on the joints, supplementing cartilage building blocks like glucosamine may help arthritis, as well as relieve arthritis pain. MSM provides elemental sulfur, an important component of connective tissue, and also has some anti-inflammatory propeties. About 250 mg of glucosamine plus 200 mg of MSM per 15 pounds of body weight is a good place to start. Whether your canine companion is a flyball competitor or a hardworking service dog, it’s important to make sure you’re supporting his nutritional requirements. It not only makes a big difference to how he performs, but also to how he feels.
Continued on page 44.
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Sports dogs by Gillian Ridgeway
Sports that go to the dogs—and
how to get involved!
Have you ever sat down on your couch on a Sunday afternoon and turned on your TV to see dogs flying over jumps to retrieve a ball, or making their way with unerring accuracy through an obstacle course? Were you intrigued enough to think of getting off that couch and taking part in a similar sport with your own canine buddy? 46
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Photo: American Kennel Club
I
If so, you’re in luck. Dog sports and activities like agility, flyball, rally, musical freestyle, and disc dog are among the fastest growing obsessions among dog lovers. Not only are they a lot of fun and a great opportunity for you and your dog to get fit and connect with each other on a new level, but they’re also an enjoyable way to meet other like-minded dog people. There’s no time like the present to explore your options and get involved in a sport that you and your best friend can enjoy together.
HINT:
Before beginning any canine sport, it’s important to have your vet give your dog a complete physical check-up. Getting started The first step is to understand the genetics of your dog and find a sport that might be most suitable for his breed or mix of breeds. Canine sports range from those that require specialized training to activities your dog can do naturally. Research your breed, find what they naturally do “for a living”, and keep that in mind when picking a sport. If you have a herding breed such as a border collie or Australian shepherd, for example, herding might be something to explore, although it doesn’t mean that herding is the only thing you should look at doing. The key competitors in many agility trials and flyball tournaments are also border collies, most of whom have never met any sheep. In other words, as long as your dog is physically able to do the activities required in a particular sport, there is no reason not to give it a go. Even toy breeds can get involved and are often seen scaling A-frames on agility courses.
Consider your dog’s personality Not only should you be aware of your dog’s physical capabilities, but you’ll also need to look at his personality. Some dogs are
more difficult to motivate, but give them a chance. I have seen many dogs start slow in agility, but although they take longer than others to get the hang of it, they all seem to benefit in the long run. In fact, it’s often suggested that under-confident dogs get into a sport like agility to help them realize their own potential. Of course, there are dogs at the other end of the scale, those over-the-top canines who love to feel the wind beneath them as they make their way around the obstacle course or leap to catch flying balls or discs. These dogs need to do sports. By getting them involved in an activity where they can exercise their bodies and mental abilities, their human families are able to channel that excess energy into something positive.
Picking an activity Once you’ve determined what your dog is capable of doing, you can decide which activity to focus on. This means picking something you like as well, since the sport should be enjoyable for both of you. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of where you live and what is at your disposal. If the closest flyball class is over an hour’s drive away, but you can get involved in agility just down the street, then agility might be a good place to start. You can always investigate other activities later. Many people who do dog sports don’t stop at one. I love the variety of being involved in competitive obedience, agility and flyball. • Many years ago, one of the only sports you could do with your dog was competitive obedience. This is an obedience trial where you are tested on a set of rules. While I enjoy this sport, many people buckle under the stress while being tested and that in turn can trickle down and affect the relationship they have with their dogs. I would encourage you to do some type of obedience work, but perhaps rally obedience is a good first goal. In rally, unlike competitive obedience, you can use your voice to encourage your dog, and there are allowances made for beginners with regards to precision. Even food can be used as a reward during the trial. This sport allows people to work towards a goal, have fun while they do it, and still get a title in
obedience. Once you have mastered rally, it might then be time to take a whirl at competitive obedience. • Agility is one of the most popular of canine sports. In this activity, you direct your dog around a course of jumps, ramps, tunnels and other obstacles. Your dog’s performance is evaluated by how quickly and accurately he gets through the course. Agility requires considerable training, since you aren’t allowed to touch the dog or the obstacles during the run, but must rely on verbal commands and body signals to guide him. • Flyball is like a relay race with a team of dogs. The dogs take turns clearing a series of hurdles in order to retrieve a ball that has been shot from a spring-loaded box. The first team to have all dogs run without any errors wins the heat. • Musical freestyle is another great activity. It’s sort of like “dancing” with your dog, and requires a lot of training, teamwork, coordination and creativity. Freestyle is a wonderful way to bond with your dog and is one of the most beautiful things to watch. • Disc dog involves throwing Frisbeelike discs to the dog. Seasoned disc dog athletes take part in distance catching and choreographed freestyle events involving flips, vaults and multiple catches.
HINT: It’s a good idea to attend a variety of different sporting events as a spectator first, to get a feel for what’s involved.
In training Once you’ve decided on an activity, check the entry requirements. Then, find a trainer who can take you through the steps or refer you to a club or association where you can animal wellness
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Photo: American Kennel Club
Some sports and activities restrict the breeds that can compete, although there are associations for most sports that allow mixed breeds, which is a real breakthrough and will encourage more people to get involved.
Even if you’re not the competitive sort, you can still train your dog to do a sporting activity for the simple joy of it.
One of my friends has been training her dogs for agility for many years but says she will never enter a trial.
She just loves the time she spends with her dogs, teaching them new things and doing the sport for the thrill it brings her.
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HINT:
Patience is never more needed than when training for a canine sport. Imagine if you were being taught how to golf by someone who didn’t speak English and got annoyed the moment you didn’t understand his direction. get more information (see page 51 for some resources). Make sure your instructor is qualified. There isn’t a piece of paper that will give qualifications, but someone who competes in the sport is a good choice. He/she will also be an excellent source of information about new training methods and upcoming trials. You want your instructor to be “in the loop”.
Photo: "Vibe" Larry McCarthy
Not the competitive type?
Although we can all get frustrated when showing our dogs a new skill, the goal should always be to teach in a positive manner and not sweat the small stuff, especially when learning together. Always remember that you can change to another sport if need be. If you start in flyball, but your dog is having trouble dropping the ball, maybe it’s time to look at teaching him agility or disc dog instead.
Spend plenty of time teaching your dog. That sounds simple, but it’s often overlooked. Enjoy the process and try not to always look
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Cats can do it, too! Flyball and freestyle are probably out of your feline’s league, but many cats can be trained to do agility. There’s even an organization for it. Based in the U.S., International Cat Agility Tournaments (ICAT) also has contacts in Canada and Europe. As their website states, the organization is “devoted to creating a new category of cat competition in which cats negotiate an obstacle course designed to display their speed, coordination, beauty of movement, physical conditioning, intelligence, training, and the quality and depth of their relationship with their owner, who trains with them and guides them through the course.”
towards your end goal. Use toys and treats to show your dog what you want him to do, and provide lots of praise and enthusiasm for motivation. Once you have done your training and feel that you and your dog have a good handle on what to expect, then you can take a shot at a match or even a trial. You will first of all need to register your dog with the association you are competing in. Last but far from least, always keep in mind that the sport should be fun, both
How do you tell if your cat could do agility?
1. Is she young? (Older felines are more set in their ways and easily stressed by change.) 2. Is she lean, in good health, and physically fit? 3. Is she calm around new people and in new situations? 4. Does she enjoy investigating new things? 5. Does she like running, jumping and climbing? If you answered “yes” to these questions, your kitty might be a good candidate. You can find out more at www.catagility.com.
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for you and your dog. Try to focus on striving for your personal best rather than winning the competition. It’s not important that your dog score 200 points or get clean runs all the time. What is important is that you love your dog and have fun together.
The scoop on poop Every animal does it. Nobody talks about it. What goes in comes out, right? Yes and no. The basics of nutrition and digestion are such that whatever can be used by the body is used and the rest is discarded as waste. So, if you put garbage in (like grain- or cereal-based food), you get garbage out (we’re talking big, messy, squishy garbage).
The following associations
provide a wealth of informa-
If, however, you use a nutrient-rich food like Viand, your dog or cat will not only gobble up all that delicious meat with vegetables, probiotics and micro-nutrients, their bodies will better be able to absorb all that nutrition. What goes in gets used.
tion and resources for a variety of canine sports.
American Kennel Club, www.akc.org Canadian Kennel Club, www.ckc.ca United States Dog Agility Association, www.usdaa.com Agility Association of Canada, www.aac.ca North American Flyball Association, www.flyball.org International Disc Dog Handlers’ Association, www.iddha.com Hyperflite, www.hyperflite.com Musical Dog Sports Association, www.musicaldogsport.org Canadian Association of Rally and Obedience, www.canadianrallyo.ca
Healthier animal. Smaller, firmer, more compact poop that’s easier to scoop. It’s a win-win for you and your city dog. Nowadays, we have to be ever more vigilant about what we feed our precious pets. Better food is the answer.
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Do
OPPOSITES attract? How to introduce dogs to cats (or the other way round!) by Suzanne Hetts, Ph.D.
Nine years had passed since Karyn’s old dog died, and she really wanted another. But she and her husband already had two cats who “didn’t like dogs” and were rather set in their ways. “We were afraid that bringing a dog into the house would just upset them too much,” says Karyn. 54
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D
ogs and cats may not seem the most compatible of species, but the stats nevertheless show that many animal-loving households have both. According to a 2002 survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, 15% of all U.S. households included at least one dog and one cat. The survey also revealed that 41% of dog households also included at least one cat, and that 46% of cat households also included at least one dog. This means a significant number of the country’s 9.8 million cats and 8.7 million dogs share their lives with one another.
important if the dog’s history with cats is not known. Regardless of which species you are adding to your household, each will be unfamiliar with the other and neither may respond the same way they
All the same, cases involving relationship problems between family animals are often presented to behavior consultants, and it’s likely that far more exist. In my experience, too many people put up with their cats hiding in the basement or some other area of the house because they’re scared of the new dog. This is not a good quality of life for any animal. Chronic stress caused by harassment from another animal can even lead to illness.
is afraid of the other,
Many of these problems can be prevented with just two steps:
HINT: When dogs and cats
don’t get along, it usually has nothing to do with territory.More likely, one resulting in defensive aggression, or the dog sees the cat as prey.
did to previous animals they were well acquainted with. #
-
Anticipating problems 9
#-
Most cats will be afraid of dogs. There are rare exceptions. I remember a very poorly socialized, neglected Chow who refused to re-enter his new home after the resident cat hissed and swatted at him. -9
#9
#-9
1. A thoughtful assessment of the animals’ personalities, and; 2. Careful initial introductions.
Assessing the animals Has your resident cat or dog ever been around the other species? How did he react? A good relationship with a previous dog or cat is a good sign, but this doesn’t guarantee the same results with a new one. Your new animal will behave differently than the previous one did. How about the dog or cat you are thinking of acquiring? Is he known to be friendly to the other species? You should err on the side of caution and assume your dog may want to injure your cat, even if you’ve been told or know the dog was friendly with other cats in the past. This is even more
+
A dog’s reactions will usually fall into several categories. Some immediately view cats as prey and will chase them with intent to hurt them. Many will be intensely curious about the cat. That curiosity can turn into playful, friendly behavior, or aggression, depending in part on the cat’s response. The dog may start out just wanting to play, but the cat feels threatened and behaves aggressively. This may in turn provoke an aggressive response from the dog. A few dogs will immediately love the cat and be calm and relaxed in her presence. And, like the Chow, a few will be afraid of the cat.
ÃÊ
À
In some cases, it can be difficult to determine at first what the dog’s intentions are. If you aren’t sure, you animal wellness
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HINT: Continue to gradually increase the time your dog and cat can see one another, and decrease the distance between them, though not necessarily during the same session.
should seek assistance from a certified applied animal behaviorist or another consultant knowledgeable in both dog and cat behavior.
An introduction protocol
The initial introduction should be a positive experience for all the animals. At all times, your over-riding concern must be for their safety, especially the cat's. When your animals can’t be supervised, they should be housed separately.
Your goal during the introduction is to help your animals become familiar with each other in small doses. Familiarity is what breeds friendship.
Cats and dogs vary as to how quickly they move through this introduction phase. Some may accept one another
the Introduction
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Bringing cats and dogs together works if you do it right and take your time. Follow these seven steps for the best results:
2. During this time, take an old towel, rub it on your new dog or cat, and put it in the room where you’ve confined your resident animal. This is the first step in getting them accustomed to one another.
1. Allow them to hear and smell each other, but not see each other. Confine the resident animal to one part of your house when you first bring your new dog or cat home. Allow the newcomer to explore his new digs while your resident animal is safely confined.
3. After an hour or two, reverse the arrangements, including the scented towel. Repeat this process throughout the first day, and during the entire time your animals are housed separately during the acclimation period.
animal wellness
4. Feed the animals on either side of a closed door (one they can’t see through) so they will learn to associate pleasant experiences with one another. Your goal is to have the animals calmly eat with the bowls very close to the door. This may require several days or longer to achieve. 5. Continue keeping them separated until their interest in each other’s scent and presence at the door wanes. Next, arrange an episode where they can
see but not touch one another. This might be through a glass or screen door, or on either side of a baby gate, or with your animals on leashes or in crates.
6. Encourage the animals to lie or sit quietly, using treats, toys and/or petting. If anyone seems uncomfortable or overly excited, either increase the distance between them, or calmly end the session and try again later.
within just a few days, while others may take weeks or months to tolerate one another. Micro-managing these introductions and moving at a snail’s pace are key. Moving too quickly and allowing any of your animals to become fearful or aggressive can hinder their progress. Karyn and her husband decided to take the plunge and give these tips a try when they fell in love with a homeless cocker spaniel. “Things were awkward at first, but we took things slowly and since they’ve all got used to each other, it’s been fine,” Karyn says. “All three of them were even sleeping in the same patch of sun yesterday morning!”
"Your goal during the introduction is to help your animals become familiar with each other in small doses. Familiarity is what breeds friendship."
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7. Once they are all relaxed, allow a bit more interaction. Attach your dog’s leash to a couch or chair, for example, and allow the cat to approach him at their own pace. Interrupt over-exuberant or aggressive behavior with a squirt of water. You must prevent your dog from developing the habit of chasing, harassing or threatening your cat. In turn, the cat must learn to trust that the dog isn’t going to harm her.
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Eyeing up your dog’s
constitution by Christine Agro, ND, MIr, MH
S
“Sinbad is scared of so many
things,” laments Tricia of her
newly-adopted dog. “He doesn’t
like people or noises, and even the wind makes him jumpy. I wish I knew why, and what to
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do about it.”
Photo: Rogener Pavinski
Nervous Sensitive Interestingly enough, Tricia may need to look no further than her dog’s eyes to figure out the problem. Iridology is an ancient modality that involves an analysis of the markings, textures and colors of the iris of the eye to understand the inner nature or constitution of the dog, address the root cause of his condition, and then focus on the support that will help him overcome it. Through my work as a master iridologist, I have identified three constitutional types of dog who display nervous, anxious or phobic tendencies.
1. Nervous
Sensitive dog This dog has lines, or nerve rings, running around the iris. They indicate that the dog is indeed experiencing stress, which has a direct impact on the nervous system. A dog with this constitution tends to be demanding, bossy, controlling, rigid, scheduled and hard-working. The Nervous Sensitive dog needs to know what is going on in order to feel secure. Clear commands and guidelines are essential.
2. Immune
Reactive dog This dog has a white halo around the iris that represents the autonomic nerve wreath (ANW) and indicates an “irritation” to the nervous system. The ANW embodies both the sym- pathetic (controls energy expenditure and the flight or fight response) and parasympathetic (controls digestion
and energy conservation) nervous systems. The “irritation” comes from an overload of both external and internal stimuli and an inability to filter the information being received. Immune Reactive dogs are overenthusiastic and reactionary. They are unable to differentiate between threatening and non-threatening stimuli, since the lack of a filter causes all stimuli to appear threatening.
3. Emotional Body dog
Immune Reactive
These dogs display a series of flower petal-like “openings” around the iris, referred to as lacunas. The Emotional Body dog tends to be a natural born healer and is tuned into the emotional energies of all those he comes in contact with. He also has difficulty processing and letting go of the energies he encounters. A dog with this constitution can demonstrate any number of emotional behaviors. He may be clingy, possessive, destructive (due to an overload of external ener- gies), snappish, or depressed. Iridology gives us a detailed “inside look” at what our dogs are experiencing. It is a powerful tool that enables care providers to more deeply understand what is contributing to a condition while accurately pinpointing the root. We can then tailor treatment protocols to address the true needs of the dog, rather than offer a universal treatment that addresses symptoms and not the cause.
Emotional Body
Continued on next page...
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Supporting your dog’s constitution Nervous Sensitive
Immune Reactive A healthy balanced diet is essential. If your dog’s diet isn’t nourishing and supporting, the nervous system is going to be depleted, and that in turn sends signals to your dog that he is unsafe or in danger. A sense of danger is a major contributing factor to this dog’s state of being.
Emotional body
Diet
Extremely important. Low end processed foods deplete the nervous system as they do not contain the nutrients to support health and wellness. It’s essential the dog receive a diet free of preservatives and additives and that incorporates the full range of dietary needs.
Training
Imperative. The dog needs to know what is expected of him and often requires a “job” to feel safe. He also needs to know who is in charge of the pack (i.e. you!) and what his role is. Training can be a real gift for this dog because it also helps him develop a strong sense of self.
Won’t help too much until you resolve the over-stimulation that’s occurring. Otherwise, training is just another source of confusing information that muddles the nervous system response.
Won’t support this dog. The impact on his nervous system doesn’t come from not knowing what to do or what is expected of him. It comes from being too open energetically to the emotional highs and lows of those around him, and then not knowing what to do with that information once it has entered the system.
Vaccines
These dogs tend to have greater problems with side effects and experience more adverse reactions. The nervous system is already compromised and the introduction of antigens further stresses it. Research has shown that the initial round of core vaccines can offer immunity for at least seven years in all dogs. It is also important to note that vaccine labels state that dogs who are unwell should not be vaccinated; unwell includes nervous and emotional conditions as well as physical illness!
These dogs tend to have fewer complications. Nevertheless, vaccines should again be limited to those that are absolutely necessary.
These dogs also tend to have issues with side effects and adverse reactions. Vaccinosis can be a real problem because the dog holds the memory of the vaccination in the nervous system. Rather than processing the vaccination, assimilating its benefits and letting go of the remainder, the total energy is harbored in the nervous system.
Extra support
It is important to help these dogs find some down time. Creating some meditation practice with them is an easy and mutually supportive activity for both of you. Flower essences such as chamomile, elm, impatiens and lavender are all very helpful for dogs who internalize stress.
It is essential to help the dog develop energy filters and find a way to end the cycle of reactionary behavior. The two most effective modalities are flower essences and herbal support. For flower essences, I use a combination blend of mimulus, aspen, rock rose and pink yarrow. They help the dog shift the energy vibrations that are perceived as threats. I add a tincture of catnip, which calms and relaxes the nervous system and also supports healthy digestion. Catnip is a wonderful nervine and digestive aid when taken internally.
This dog has energetic boundaries, but needs to learn how to release collected energies. Support is more about assisting the clearing process and keeping the energy flowing. Flower essences, especially yarrow and pink yarrow, work really well by establishing healthy emotional and spiritual energy boundaries. Energy healing modalities such as acupressure and massage therapy also work well to clear blocked energy from the emotional body.
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The flower petal structure seen in the iris of these dogs indicates an inherent weakness in the digestive system. They especially benefit from a healthy, balanced diet as well as detoxing and digestive support with pure aloe vera juice, liquid chlorophyll and digestive enzymes.
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10 10 Tips For Your
Photo (below): "Frisco" by Lorraine Alkema, Photo contest entry
Canine Water Baby by Ann Brightman hen I was a kid, we used to take our two dogs for walks in the woods on warm summer evenings. One of our favorite stopping-off points was a bend in the creek where the water ran slow, and where the dogs loved to plunge in to fetch sticks and have a bit of a paddle. Going by the happy expressions on their faces when they emerged, dripping and refreshed and spraying us with drops as they shook themselves, it was the highlight of their whole day.
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"Cherish Unrestrained" Photo courtesy of Deborah Lee Miller-Riley, Canine Water Sports
W
Sharing water activities with your canine companion is a wonderful bonding experience for both of you, but keep in mind that, as with children, you also have to consider his safety and comfort. While many dogs take to the water like ducks, especially retrievers, spaniels and similar breeds, others are a bit timid at first and may need help getting used to this new experience. The following ten tips will ensure you and your best friend can splash out on worry-free fun, whether you’re wading in a stream, going boating, or taking a trip to the beach or cottage.
1.
Before starting any new activity with your dog, it’s a smart idea to make sure he’s in good health and condition. If you’re in any doubt as to his fitness, have him checked over by a vet.
Not all beaches allow dogs, so check regulations before taking your dog along. Websites such as www.dogfriendly.com offer listings of pet friendly beaches in the U.S. and Canada.
2.
If this is Rover’s first introduction to the water, start slowly and be patient, especially if he’s still a pup. Don’t assume he’ll automatically know how to swim. Choose a warm day and a shallow body of water with a gently sloping beach or bank that’s easy for your dog to navigate. Let him approach the water’s edge and investigate it in his own time. Never splash him, or force him to enter the water before he’s ready.
3.
Once his caution has turned to curiosity, you can try enticing him into the water by entering it yourself and
calling him, attracting him with a treat, or by tossing a toy a short distance into the water (make sure it’s not out of his depth). Gradually, by degrees, he should feel more confident, especially if he sees you having fun, and will venture further into the water.
Bring your own water It might seem convenient to let your dog drink from the lake or river, but it’s not a good idea. Ponds, bogs and lakes may be contaminated with parasites and bacteria, such as giardia, that can make your dog sick. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive gas and weight loss. A serious risk associated with stagnant water is blue-green algae, which can be very dangerous if ingested. Swallowing too much chlorinated or salt water can also make your dog ill, while various manmade pollutants can be found in many rivers and lakes. Ensure you bring along a separate supply of pure drinking water for your dog.
4.
Take your time as well when introducing your dog to boating. Keep in mind that he’s used to surfaces that are still and stable, so it might take him a little while to get used to the idea. Whether you have a canoe or a yacht, let him get acquainted with the boat while it’s still tied up. Keep his first boat trips short, and watch him for any signs of motion sickness.
5.
Even if your dog is a seasoned swimmer, it’s a good idea to equip him with a canine lifejacket or PFD (personal flotation device) while you’re out on a boat. Accidents can happen, and cold, deep, choppy water can challenge even the strongest swimmer. A lifejacket is a must if your dog isn’t a good swimmer, not only while he’s on a boat, but also when he’s playing in water that gets deep further out. Make sure the device fits your dog properly. Allow him a chance to get used to wearing and swimming with the lifejacket before taking him out over deep water.
6.
Whether you’re on a boat or the beach, ensure your dog has access to fresh drinking water. Water quality is questionable in many areas nowadays (see sidebar), so it’s best to bring your own from home.
7. Make sure he has shade. Boat surfaces and beach sand can get extremely hot in the sun, while a dog’s sensitive nose and ears can get burned with too much exposure.
8.
When swimming at the ocean, be aware of strong tides. Sea lice and jellyfish are other risks to watch out for. Jellyfish can sting a curious dog, causing
extreme pain and swelling, while sea lice are microscopic organisms that can cause intense itching. It’s a good idea to rinse your dog (and yourself) with fresh water after swimming in the ocean.
9.
The biggest rule of thumb is to always supervise your dog around any body of water, just as you would a child. animal wellness
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Photos courtesy of Tug N Hug
A boating harness such as those offered by the Tug N Hug Pet Harness Company (www.tugnhug.com) is a good solution – available in several sizes, they’re designed for optimum mobility and include a sturdy upright handle on the back to help you lift your dog out of the water.
If you have a pool, teach him how to get out of it and don’t leave toys floating in the water. Remember that swimming is vigorous exercise and a dog can tire quickly, especially if he’s older.
10. Your dog may need help getting out of the water, especially when swimming off a boat or dock, or in a pool. A boating harness such as those
offered by the Tug N Hug Pet Harness Company (www.tugnhug.com) is a good solution – available in several sizes, they’re designed for optimum mobility and include a sturdy upright handle on the back to help you lift your dog out of the water.
A boating harness can help you lift your dog out of a pool.
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Water activities can hugely enrich your dog’s life experience, not to mention your mutual bond of friendship.
Aquatic sports Canine sporting activities aren’t just land-based. According to Canine Water Sports, an organization dedicated to promoting and teaching water sports/work and safety for dogs and
best friend can get involved in a wide variety of aquatic activities such as team swim-
A water-loving dog "retrieves" her mom.
ming (you and your dog), retrieving, delivering, towing, underwater diving,
Life jackets allow both you and your dog to enjoy the water longer and with less effort.
scentwork and boatwork.
While
these sports and
activities are especially ideal for breeds that
As long as you keep his safety in mind, the fun you share will give you many happy memories to look back on for years to come!
crave mental stimulation as well as physical exercise, any dog who loves the water can benefit.
Visit
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animal wellness
Betsy leaps into deeper water under her guardian's watchful eye.
Photos courtesy of Deborah Lee Miller-Riley, Canine Water Sports
their people, you and your
Clicker training
101
I
by Paul Owens
I’m a pretty good chicken trainer. Back in the ’90s, I attended a couple of great dog training camps sponsored by Terry Ryan, a well respected, internationally known dog trainer. I taught my chicken – Fred was his name – to run up a ramp, ring a bell, and run back down and take a bow. I thought for sure Fred and I would at least rate an honorable mention at the awards ceremony.
Photo: Brian Stemmler, Stemmler Photography, Los Angeles, California
But the Japanese students in the class had other ideas. One made an origami wrestling ring with origami sumo wrestlers ready to do battle in the ring. The student raised his hand, and his chicken jumped over the ring and knocked the wrestlers over. Then that darn chicken jumped straight up and rang a bell that was placed two feet over his head. Fred lost and he was bummed. (Please note: no chickens were harmed in the writing of this article. As a matter of fact, every chicken that participated in camp was guaran- teed freedom and went on to live a full and happy – though somewhat fowl – life on the neighbor’s farm.)
From chickens to clickers
The author teaches a dog to sit. The click happens as soon as the dog sits, and he's then rewarded with a treat.
So what does training a chicken have to do with clicker training? Animal training is all about effective communication. The more precise, consistent and accurate that communication animal wellness
67
is, the quicker the animal learns. So if you can communicate with a chicken, you can train a dog, because chicken training teaches you to concentrate on small movements and “capture” these behaviors, much like taking a picture in a moment of time. The tool we all learned to use in training our chickens was a clicker.
Here’s how it works
Clickers come in many shapes and sizes, but basically a clicker is an inexpensive toy that makes a cricket-like sound. Most clickers are
Training treat tactics Food treats have a hierarchy. Real meat is most often more valuable than kibble or dry treats. (Stay away from products made of wheat, corn, artificial colors and by-products). In addition, dogs have their own likes and dislikes. Some like cheddar cheese but won’t touch Swiss. Some dogs like chicken but others prefer ground beef. Find out what your dog really likes. Whatever treats you use, the pieces should be small enough that she can swallow them whole. If the treat is too big or is hard and crunchy, your dog will spend more time chewing and less time doing the behaviors. 68
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small matchbox-sized plastic boxes. A clicker is used to communicate to the animal, quickly and precisely, that what they did was exactly what you were looking for, at the exact moment they did it. And it signals to the animal that they are about to be rewarded for what they did.
animal wellness
Initially, a clicker has no value to a dog (except puppies who want to chew everything), so you have to make it mean something. To give value to the clicker, you simply click and give your dog a piece of highly valued food like chicken, cheese, liver treats and so on. Food is one of several “primary reinforcers” that dogs respond to and it’s the easiest thing to use in this process. Other primary reinforcers include physical affection, play (like fetching a ball), and water. If you click and give your dog a piece of food and repeat this ten to twenty times, the clicker now becomes associated with the food. This process is called classical conditioning. And the clicker now becomes known as a “secondary reinforcer”. In the dog’s mind, the click has actually taken on some of the quality of the primary reinforcer, in this case, the food. For those of you who remember Pavlov, the guy who rang a bell and linked the “ding” with food, you’ll quickly understand the process. When your dog has made the association between the clicker and the food, you can
begin to use the clicking sound for train- ing. This is called operant conditioning.
Click for “good dog!” Using a clicker is essentially the same as saying “good dog” whenever she does something you want her to. If your dog puts her behind on the floor, for example, and you click the moment that happens, she learns that what she did has earned her a treat. So she will more readily repeat that behavior in the future. So the clicker, in essence, “captures” your dog’s behavior because it quickly identifies it and the dog understands she will be rewarded. The clicker is quicker and more precise than saying “good dog” because people have a tendency to remember to click with more consistency and precision than when using verbal praise. And frankly, it takes longer to say “good dog” than it does to click. In addition, because people say “good dog” so often throughout the day, this phrase often has less value than the special clicking sound.
Creating positive associations The other neat thing about a clicker is that it can be used as an “occasion setter.” You know how excited your dog gets whenever she hears the bag of treats rustling? Or when you pick up the leash? She has made associations with these activities and learned that something good is about to happen. The rustling of the treat bag signals a meal occasion and the leash is associated with going for a walk. As a result, she really focuses on you in anticipation of what’s about to happen. She will often offer behaviors like sitting or lying down or spinning in circles as if to say, “What do you want me to do? Sit? Beg? Jump? Get you a beer?” In
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other words, your dog is really excited to do what you’re about to ask because you have something she really wants. With this in mind, whenever you show your dog a clicker, you flip that same switch in her head that says something good is about to happen. So your dog really looks forward to the occasion of training sessions and becomes intent on paying attention.
Using the clicker as a “bridge” The other nice thing about using a clicker is that it allows you time to get the treat to her. As I mentioned earlier, good training is all about the speed of rewarding. The quicker you get the treat to your dog, the more effective your training. So let’s say you’ve asked your dog to lie down from twenty feet away. As soon as she does, you can immediately click, signaling she did a good job, but then you have several seconds to actually get the food treat to her. The clicker acts as a “bridge,” signaling the food is coming, but because you marked the behavior with the click, it’s as if you gave the food the instant her behind hit the floor.
Moving on to life rewards Clickers are used to teach your dog a new behavior. When she knows what to do and does it when asked, the clicker is no longer necessary. You can maintain the behavior by using affection like petting and praising your dog. But you can also keep the behavior sharp by using “life rewards.” A life reward is anything your dog wants that isn’t food related. For example, if you ask your dog to lie down, the reward is going for a walk. If you ask your dog to sit, the reward is chasing a ball. Clicker training is all about positive reinforcement, so it’s a terrific way to train your dog and have fun at the time same!
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An open letter from PHD’s president, I. Scott Pollak: Thank you for considering PHD’s products. Many of you who share your lives with dogs or cats believe you have done well with the foods you have always used. But it seems what many of you have been missing all along is MEAT. Most commercial foods may look like they have meat; the truth is that very little actually is in the finished, processed product. Over the last 12 years, thousands upon thousands of customers have reached and maintained their pets’ health implementing the PHD philosophy and system. It is the way to ensure the path to optimum health. If you have a concern about our products with regard to the quality of sourcing raw material and maintaining our integrity, let me say this: I designed this company and its products with a team of experts to make the best possible “processed” food. I did this so you could achieve a pet with optimum health with minimal effort. Our meat sources are New Zealand lamb and American chicken. All of our grains are local and North American. Whenever possible, we source American ingredients. As the world market evolves, different countries become the “main source,” if not the only source, of an individual ingredient. This leaves most manufacturers purchasing from the same source, as exemplified by the recent recalls. If sourcing a particular ingredient becomes an issue due to its origin, we find another ingredient I.Scott Pollak & Buster (Scott on left) that provides the specific function and source stateside. With this as a priority I have been able to keep my products excluded from any concern or recall. PHD has never been involved with any recall or unfortunate issue that have plagued the industry in the last 10 years. And we have never changed our original formulas. While we have certainly changed our packaging, we have never used the marketing nonsense of “new and improved” or “now with some special ingredient.” We got it right from the beginning! We chose one flavor, one way, because the answer is not more choices but better products. Our food has always been free of beef, free of chemicals, free of gluten, free of artificial anything, free of pork, free of wheat and free of soy. Much to the surprise of many people, we choose to use whole corn (#1grade), gluten-free, as a phenomenal source of fat for skin and coat along with being an excellent source of amylase, a much-needed enzyme. We are growing, and more and more retailers are coming on board (only those who truly want to help and solve health issues in their clients’ pets). And success stories come in all day long. These keep me going and prove that I’m on the right path. I hope you decide to join us and allow your pet to reach a new level of vitality! Please, learn about our food, and help keep your pet the way you imagined when you chose to share your life with a dog or cat. Thanks for seeking a smart, simple solution.
www.viandpet.com I. Scott Pollak PHD Products, Inc.
the phd system s smart sensible solutions Established 1995
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shoo!
8
ways
to discourage
free-roaming felines
For almost two years, Duwende and VJ, both black American shorthairs, lived amicably in their southern California home. One day, while Duwende was enjoying the view from the sliding glass door, one of the many stray cats in the neighborhood strolled up onto the deck and stared through the door. In a panic, Duwende jumped back from the window, slamming into VJ who was coming up for a look himself. A vicious cat fight erupted between the former companions and had to be broken up by their caregiver, Beth. This story didn’t have a happy ending. From that point onward, Duwende and VJ couldn’t be in the same room without the fur flying. Beth tried all sorts of calming herbs, flower essences and even homeopathy, but Duwende’s misdirected aggression towards VJ did not improve. Beth was forced to place Duwende with a friend where she’s now living contentedly as a single cat. VJ has a new feline buddy named Mo Blue. In addition to destroying the harmony of a multi-cat home, free-roaming cats can be destructive in other ways. They
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by Michelle Bernard
use gardens and sand boxes as litter trays and kill wild birds, while intact cats often leave scented calling cards hoping to attract mates and to mark their perceived territory.
disease, traffic, and attacks from dogs or wild animals. If your neighbor ignores you, or the cat is a stray, you’ll need to resort to other measures.
Aside from digging an eight-foot moat around your property and filling it with crocodiles, how can you keep wandering cats from destroying property and upsetting your indoor cats?
on the market designed to repel cats. They use ingredients such as pepper, mustard oil, scented oils or even urine from predators like foxes and coyotes. Their effectiveness depends, in part, on how they are applied and re-applied over time and how much area you are trying to protect. Many hardware and garden stores offer “satisfaction guarantees” so keep your receipts and if the product doesn’t work, take it back and try a different one.
1.
Try to determine where the cat is coming from. Does he belong to one of your neighbors, or is he a stray? As anyone who has had a problem with neighbors soon finds out, complaining can easily lead to friction and bad feelings, so be diplomatic. Instead of focusing on the trouble their cat is causing you, emphasize your concern for his safety – point out that roaming cats are exposed to many hazards, including infectious
2.There are a number of products
3.If you prefer to try a home-
made solution, a number of possibilities such as citrus rinds, cedar chips, vinegar or garlic
may deter cats. Avoid using essential oils, as these are toxic to cats. Mothballs can be a cat deterrent, but their toxicity to children and cats (direct contact can cause kidney failure) makes this a risky solution. For similar reasons, cayenne pepper should also not be used.
4.
To keep cats from digging in your gardens use ornamental rock or gravel to cover the loose dirt. Crumpled pieces of aluminum may also be an effective deterrent to digging. Another trick is to lay chicken wire over the garden area, prior to planting. Cut holes in the wire where you are going to place plants and when you are through planting, spread a light layer of soil over the chicken wire to cover it. While laborintensive, this method helps deter cats from digging as they detest walking on wire. You might also try a product called Cat Scat - it’s a mat with plastic spikes that stick up to make walking or digging unpleasant for cats, and is available through www.gardeners.com.
5.
If you have a child’s sandbox, cover it with plastic when not in use to keep it from being used as a litter box.
6.
Another possible solution is to offer plants like catnip or catmint in a remote area of your yard where roaming felines won’t disturb your inside cats or garden.
7.
If you notice free-roaming cats coming from one particular location, a strategically-placed motion- activated sprinkler may be enough to convince them your yard is not a good place to be. An ultrasonic device may also work, but will likely disturb your inside cats as well.
8.
If you have fencing around your property, look into installing some cat fencing along the top (www.catfencein.com). It provides a netting barrier along the top of your existing fence that cats won’t attempt to climb over. It’s not an inexpensive solution, but it effectively keeps cats and other climbing animals out and may even allow your own cat safe outside access in his own yard. Purr…fect Fence, a company that makes cat enclosures (www.purrfectfence.com) offers the option of arched extenders and extra wire that run along the top of the fence to keep strays out. A free-roaming cat can be very difficult to keep out of your yard. If the cat is a stray and all your efforts to discourage him fail, call a responsible animal shelter or humane society. Live-trapping the cat for adoption into a caring home of his own is the best solution for everyone.
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Improving quality of life for
canine cancer patients
w
by Rick Shalvoy and Stephen Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C.
When large organizations plan to sponsor studies in human cancer, they have a number of distinguished cancer centers to approach for their clinical trials. In the field of veterinary oncology, Angel Care Cancer Center’s main hospital in Carlsbad, California offers diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities that are comparable to, and in many ways superior to, those at the finest human cancer centers in the world. A client education booklet published by the center notes there is much evidence to support supplementation with omega-3 (n-3 series) fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a long chain fatty acid that has been shown to have a number of benefits for the veterinary cancer patient. Most notably, DHA: Can inhibit tumor growth and development. Appears to be important in reducing radiation and chemotherapy induced
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toxicity while increasing the efficacy of these therapies. The booklet goes on to say that DHA from algae may be preferred, since fish sources can be contaminated with heavy metals and organophosphates (chemicals used in pesticides).
Dr. Garnett’s formulation is designed to increase cellular energy and enhance an animal’s quality of life during this difficult period of cancer treatment, it also takes advantage of cancer cell dysfunction to facilitate the animal’s recovery.
Algae-based DHA is available in gel caps at natural health pharmacies. Small dogs and cats should receive 200 mg once daily; medium sized dogs 200 mg twice daily; large breed dogs 200 mg three times daily; and giant breeds 200 mg four times daily. With the support of the Special Care Foundation for Companion Animals, Angel Care Cancer Center has also used and studied Poly-MVA, a liquid dietary supplement, as an adjunct to cancer therapy. Invented by Dr. Merrill Garnett in 1991, Poly-MVA (MVA = a proprietary mixture of minerals, vitamins and amino acids) was introduced in 1995. While
Angel Care Cancer Center director Dr. Gregory Ogilivie has been studying the potential of nutrients to treat cancer since 1984.
Among the nearly 800 patients involved in the Poly-MVA study over the past three years, the ones with the most delighted owners are those who enjoy a good quality of life with stable disease (cancer that does not progress). While virtually all these animals have been receiving DHA in addition to Poly-MVA, as well as specific therapies including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation where appropriate, there appears to be a subjective difference among some who had Poly-MVA added to their supplementation regimen compared to those who did not. Randomized, placebo controlled clinical trials have been proposed to confirm these observations. “We see our best results among those patients that are treated long term with osteosarcoma, anal sac adenocarcinoma (cancer that originates in the anal sacs below the tail), hemangiosarcoma (a cancer of blood vessels)
and many others,” says Angel Care’s director Dr. Gregory Ogilvie, who has been exploring the therapeutic potential of nutrients to treat veterinary cancer patients since 1984 and has published over 100 scientific articles on the subject. Dr. Ogilvie does not believe that every patient with every tumor will experience an observable benefit with Poly-MVA. (Lymphoma cases, for example, generally do not seem to improve.) When asked if he would recommend Poly-MVA for veterinary cancer patients, Dr. Ogilvie says, “I would not be involved in Poly-MVA research if I did not believe it would help the majority of my patients experience an improved quality of life. “More formalized studies are needed before any definitive statements can be made regarding a statistically significant difference in survival.”
Enhancing QOL
Quality of life (QOL) is the centerpiece gem of any study designed to evaluate the effectiveness of adjunctive modalities for cancer patients. It can be measured with a set of parameters (appetite, energy, behavior patterns, etc.) that are recorded and documented over time. For the Poly-MVA study, a significant number of people who have animals with cancer completed QOL surveys and returned them to Angel Care Cancer Center. Although many survey responses are based on clients’ subjective impressions, an impressive 86% of respondents felt that Poly-MVA improved their animal’s quality of life. The patients most likely to benefit included dogs or cats that had a diminished quality of life prior to treatment. Patients receiving Poly-MVA along with standard treatments for their cancers also tended to improve when it came to objective parameters such as weight, anemia, liver and kidney function, all of which have been monitored by the professional staff at Angel Care. Dr. Ogilvie, a scientific purist of the highest caliber, cautions that some patients will always respond much better than others in any study, but even he seems impressed by the overall trend that has been observed so far. animal wellness
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Fairy tale ending Documentary Film Helps the Stray Dogs of Romania
D
uring the 1980s, when Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausecu tore down several districts of Bucharest to erect the People’s Palace, thousands of Romanians were displaced and forced to leave their dogs and cats behind. Since then, the animals have proliferated and swamped the city. Today, it’s estimated that around 300,000 stray dogs roam the streets of Bucharest.
from assisting with surgeries and catching stray dogs, to getting to know the local residents. They learn that the Romanians care very much for the street dogs, which are referred to as
Stray animals aren’t just a problem in Bucharest. Romania is one of the poorest countries in Europe, so animal care and shelters aren’t considered a priority anywhere. The shelters that do exist are badly run and under-funded, and every year, thousands of Romanians are attacked and bitten by gangs of roaming dogs. In short, the stray dog problem in Romania is evolving into an insurmountable issue. But the picture isn’t completely bleak, thanks to Schnuffie Productions, an independent production company and cutting edge post house in Burbank, California. In May of 2006, the company started work on a film project called Out of Control, a documentary that follows ten volunteers from California to Romania where they work to help strays and the local residents who care for them. The volunteers come from all walks of life and range from a Warner Bros. Studio executive to a Hollywood clown. They all share one common goal: to help the Romanians provide veterinary treatment for their strays and to establish a spay and neuter program in the industrial city of Galati. The volunteers get involved in a variety of activities,
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câini comunitari (community dogs), but just don’t have the resources to handle the overwhelming population. At the end of the film, the volunteers return home with a new outlook on the situation, as well as 13 puppies who find loving homes in California. Spearheading this ambitious project is Eva Sippel, president of Schnuffie Productions. “The conditions in Romania are staggering” she says. “Dogs freely roam the streets, parasite riddled, freezing and starved.” In order to fund the project, Eva and her team held numerous events, including wine-tasting
parties, comedy nights, yard sales and a Hollywood-style burlesque show. Schnuffie Productions is producing Out of Control to raise international awareness of the conditions in Romania.
“While our efforts will initially help only a few puppies, we hope to increase global interest and alter the bleak future of these strays,” says Eva. “We hope to inspire others to get involved and help with the challenges the Romanians face in dealing with the problem.” “We have many celebrities speaking for the animals here in Los Angeles,” adds the film’s director, Paul Carlin, “That’s not to say we don’t need help here too, but once you have seen what’s going on in Romania, you can’t forget what you saw. It’s imprinted on your soul and you simply have to do something.” Making this documentary is his and Eva’s way of being part of a solution. Learn more about Out of Control by visiting www.schnuffie.com.
ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE
Wellness Resource Guide
Wellness Resource Guide Inside this issue:
• Communicators • Holistic Healthcare • Integrative Veterinarians • Massage Therapy • Natural Product Manufacturers & Distributors • Natural Product Retailers • Reiki Therapy • Shelters & Rescues • Trainers & Behaviorists • TTouch Therapy
Communicators
ILLINOIS
ARIZONA
Mary Ketaily
www.italk2pets.com (520) 770-1518 • (520) 241-7396
CALIFORNIA
AnimalConsciousness Half Moon Bay, CA USA Phone: (650) 712-0237 Email: animalsthink@aol.com Website: www.animalconsciousness.com
NEVADA
Critter Connection Leslie Moran Animal Wellness Coach Silver Springs, NV USA Phone: (775) 577-9676 Website: www.moranscritterconnection.com EFFECTIVE long distance communication, heal-balance-improve emotions-behaviors-health, death-dying-afterlife, caretaker
NEW YORK
Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Syracuse, NY USA Phone: (315) 329-0116 x1 Email: angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org Compassionate Consultations and Reiki Energy Healings with Love.
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Communicators - Integrative Vets
Wellness Resource Guide
ONTARIO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dyanna McCain, DVET HOM Holistic Animal Healing Tehachapi, CA USA Phone: (310) 863-2300 Email: parislivery@dslextreme.com
Sue Becker Kitchener, ON Canada Phone: (519) 896-2600 Email: suebecker@cyg.net
Specializing in Homeopathy & Nutrition
Reg’d. Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch
COLORADO
VIRGINIA
Animal Paradise Janet Dobbs Oak Hill, VA USA Phone: (703) 648-1866 Website: www.animalparadisecommunication.com Reiki Master Teacher, Consultations, Workshops, Communication and Healing
Peakbioenergenetics Valerie Balgeman RN Electronic Medicine/Distant Work Colorado Springs, CO USA Phone: (719) 574-6173 Email: peakbioenergetics@juno.com Website: www.peakbio.com Information as healing technology, Remedy selection. Personalized protocols. Local and long distance.
WASHINGTON
FLORIDA
Communications With Love Amboy, WA USA Phone: (360) 247-7284 Website: www.communicationswithlove.com
Holistic Healthcare CALIFORNIA
ANESTHESIA - FREE HOLISTIC TEETH CLEANING FOR DOGS & CATS by Smart Mouth Mobile Service
•Convenient Housecalls Available
NEVADA
•Veterinarian Recommended •Up to Date Instruments Always Cleansed and Sanitized
•Over 1000 Clean & Fresh Happy Mouths!
EFFECTIVE long distance emotional-physical-spiritual healing, communication, behaviours, nutrition and more.
•Red Cross Certified in Pet CPR/First Aid
Integrative Vets
1-888-828-4858 admin@smartmouthtc.com
Caring and compassionate about your pets!
ARIZONA
Head to Tail Health Bonnie Blumenfeld RVT Newcastle, CA USA Phone: (916) 663-2831 Email: bonnie@headtotailhealth.com Website: www.headtotailhealth.com
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Santa Rosa, California
707-546-4646
KENTUCKY
Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com
"OOFUUF /PSGPML $FSUJĂąFE 5IFSBQJTU *OTUSVDUPS -JDFOTFE BOE *OTVSFE
CALIFORNIA
Caroline Goulard DVM CVA Aliso Viejo, CA USA Phone: (949) 836-3772 Email: c.goulard@cox.net Website: www.carolinegoularddvm.com
Acupuncture, Chinese herbals, Tui-na.
ONTARIO
:FBST &YQFSJFODF PG 0OMZ $FSUJĂąFE *OTUSVDUPST JO UIF 6 4
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Holistic Veterinary Care
MASSACHUSETTS
7>75FDA 35GE5AB7 ?KAE5AB7 EKEF7?E
EAD7 @A ?AD7 7CG;@7 53@;@7 F:7D3BK
Veterinary Clinic
Critter Connection Leslie Moran Animal Wellness Coach Silver Springs, NV USA Phone: (775) 577-9676 Website: www.moranscritterconnection.com
•Specializing in Pet Oral Hygiene
(
Coddingtown
Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide 1-866-764-1212
Essex Animal Clinic Janice Huntingford, DVM Essex, ON Canada Phone: (519) 776-7325 Email: essexanimalclinic@cogeco.net Website: www.essexanimalhospital.ca Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional & Alternative Medicine & Surgery, Holistic Medicine, Physio & Rehab Therapies
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animal wellness
Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Massage, Therapeutic Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Integrative Vets - Natural Product Retailers
Natural Product -
Manufacturers & Distributors
COLORADO
Only Natural Pet Store
ALABAMA
Visit our online store for a huge selection of natural products for your pets!
Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: drautumn@sympatico.ca Website: www.holistic-vet.ca
1-888-937-6677 www.onlynaturalpet.com
CONNECTICUT
Bach Remedies, Clinical Nutrition, Herbs, Homeopathy, Physical Therapies
East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 757-3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Website: www.holisticpetvet.com Acupuncture, Bach Flower Remedies, Chiropractic Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Reiki, Therapeutic Nutrition
RHODE ISLAND
BRITISH COLUMBIA
ILLINOIS
It’s A Dog’s Life Debbie Maooney Chicago, IL USA Phone: (773) 881-9940 Email: korpitz1@comcast.net
VIRGINIA
Wellness Resource Guide
Guelph Animal Hospital Guelph, ON Canada Phone: (519) 836-2782 Email: info@guelphvet.com Website: www.guelphvet.com
CONNECTICUT MINNESOTA
Massage Therapy RHODE ISLAND
Natural Product Retailers CALIFORNIA
P.O.R.G.I.E. Pet Ownership Requires Getting Informed and Educated A HEALTH STORE FOR PETS Natural & Organic & THEIR PEOPLE Products 951-784-9070 www.porgienaturalhealth.com
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Wellness Resource Guide
Natural Product Retailers - TTouch Therapy
NORTH CAROLINA
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Reiki Therapy
CALIFORNIA
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CALIFORNIA
MASSACHUSETTS
281-568-1522 www.barfershoppe.com
WASHINGTON
NEW BRUNSWICK
TTouch Therapy Established 1991
Animal Massage Programs, Herbal Workshops and Pet First Aid Training. Serving the Maritimes and Ontario 866-919-8733 ~ www.treetopsweb.com
ARIZONA
Shelters & Rescues CALIFORNIA
California Coastal Horse Rescue
CALIFORNIA
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holistic business
Massage Therapists Integrative Veterinarians Trainers & Behaviorists Pet Sitters Natural Product Retailers, Manufacturers & Distributors Shelter & Rescue Groups Reiki Masters Chiropractors Acupressure specialists Acupuncturists
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Promote your Inexpensively to
a targeted market!
Our readers are looking for quality natural services and turn to Animal Wellness Magazine as the leading source for wellness information. If you provide a holistic service or product you are eligible to advertise in the WRG. For advertising information email: wrg@animalwellnessmagazine.com or call 866-764-1212
Congratulations to our 5th annual
Amazing Animals Photo Contest Winners!
Thank you to all of our readers who entered our 5th Annual Amazing Animals Photo Contest! We received an overwhelming amount of fabulous photos this year and it was such a pleasure having a glimpse into the lives of all of your happy and healthy animal companions. As usual, it was heart wrenching deciding who would win, since we received so many funny, beautiful, and artistic photos. A hearty congratulations goes out to all of this year’s winners! Remember, even if your photo did not win a prize, it still may be featured in an upcoming issue of Animal Wellness-- so keep reading!
Best photo:
Melanie Fuelling, Meridian, MS
Photo: Daisy, an Irish Setter, Female, Age 9 "A beautiful day in late February–the sky was clear and blue and the sun was backlighting Daisy's mahogany coat. Add in the gentle breeze blowing her silky ears and it was a really striking photograph of my inquistive tomboy girl." Wins a custom-made sterling silver Pawprints Jewelery charm www.pawprintsjewelery.com
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Most artistic:
Jason Addy, Vancouver, BC "My dog Cudrah. Taken at Iona Beach near Vancouver, British Columbia." Wins a Dura-Bull Dog Bedz memory foam dog bed www.dura-bulldogbedz.com
Best pals:
Karen Murphy, Buffalo, NY
"Lily is almost four and Duncan is eight. They were grooming each other, and then fell asleep. I love the yin yang aspect of this photo." Wins a selection of Priscilla's special kitty grasses www.kittygrass.com
Biggest attitude: Karen Tippins, Pittsburgh, PA
"Bill and our dog Chomps! He is 2 years old. I would describe this picture as nose to nose!" Wins a selection of Nature's Variety natural food www.naturesvariety.com
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Most athletic:
Noam & Sarah Schatz, West Hatfield, MA "Nesta, an eight-year-old Australian cattle dog" Wins a Wysong natural treats gift basket www.wysong.com
Best bond:
Brandilyn Logan, Bala, ON Black Lab Sioux and brother.
Wins a retractable leash from Flexi www.flexiusa.com
Best eyes:
R.D. Junkin, Trenton, FL Cindi at ten weeks. Her eyes are magic. Wins a selection of Zen Puppy holistic treats www.zen-puppy.com
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Funniest:
Dennis Traina, Long Island, NY "This is a shot of my dog Rusty (Left 18 months) and my son's dog Hanna (12 months) at play. Believe me, they are the best of friends." Wins Iceland Pure salmon oil and treats www.icelandpure.com
Best smile:
Paul and Lucy De los Reyes, Bolton, Ontario “Chyna is a one-year-old female Mastiff mix. She just loves to lie on her back and look up and smile at you! What a ham!� Wins a Tug N Hug no-pull harness www.tugnhug.com
Best nature lover: Joyce Ferris, Wantage, NJ "Boone is a very high energy dog and is always running and leaping in the air. I caught him as he was taking off in the snow." Wins a selection of North West Naturals frozen raw food www.nw-naturals.com
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Honorable mentions...
"Rudi", "Pearl", and "Earl", by Debora Kolcun, Leesburg, VA
"Nook" by Eva Jancelewicz, Toronto, ON "Clara" by Andrea Scolar, Milwaukie, OR
"Leon" by Lynne de Gerenday, NM
"Lanie" by Heather Hines, Beaverton, OR All honorable mentions will receive a copy of the Pet Food Report.
" Maddie" by Glenn Williams, Toronto, ON
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passages
Cypress by Pamela Nations-Weissman
Namaste
I
I always told my dog Cypress we would be together forever, even after we left our bodies. I also told her I would love it if she came back to me in another form. When the time came for her to die, my husband and I played Native American flute music, sat with her, and reminded her of the songs we sang to her, the great times we had and all the people she knew who loved her. Cypress drifted in and out of consciousness, her head falling softly to her pillow then lifting suddenly to search for us. As soon as she saw we were still there she would allow her head to sink to the pillow again.
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Then, her body began to twitch with muscle tremors. She had a convulsion and lost control of her bladder. It was then that I felt Cypress’s soul leave her body. I thought she would die soon after, but she didn’t. It was Sunday, but the animal emergency clinic would be open. We lifted the corners of her sheet (she was a big dog) and carried her to the car. I sat in the back seat with her head on my lap. I was filled with guilt, thinking we should have had her put to sleep sooner and that she might now be in pain.
connecting with me. My husband felt her licking his face from time to time, and we both often heard her panting. And we could tell our cat was definitely able to see her. Two weeks later, I had a dream I was hugging her and she turned into a black puppy with white markings. What I noticed most about the puppy was a white shoulder blade on the right side. About a week or two after that, I had another dream about the same puppy walking towards me from her litter. She was larger than the rest of the puppies, with the same white shoulder
The vet gave Cypress the injection as we sat on the floor with her. I whispered in her ear that I would love her forever and would see her again really soon. We said goodbye, and when we were strong enough, got up and made arrangements to have Cypress cremated. We were silent all the way home.
Cypress’ message Cypress used to like sleeping on the floor in our office. A couple of days after her death, I entered the room and felt a cold rush of exhilarating wind move right through my body and take my breath away. I knew it was Cypress
Cypress
blade on the right. I felt deep down that Cypress was sending me clues about how she was going to look in her next incarnation.
and Namaste A happy reunion Everywhere we went, I couldn’t stop looking for the puppy in my dream. Then an amazing thing happened. My brother in Kentucky, whom I’d been estranged from for more than 15 years because of a misunderstanding, e-mailed to say their dog had had a litter of puppies. My husband, feeling we should check it out, asked me how I felt about it. I agreed, so decided to phone my brother and ask him about the puppies. He said they were hound/border collie mixes and mostly brown. I asked if there
were any black and white ones. He said yes, two of them were. I then asked if one of them had a white shoulder blade on the right side. He left the phone to check. In a few minutes he came back and in a weird tone said, “Yeah, the female has a white shoulder blade on the right side. What’s going on, Pam? You’re creeping me out!” “That’s my dog!” I shouted. I asked him to hold onto her for me and we would come and get her. It was almost as if Cypress knew that the rift between my brother and me was a huge source of pain for me, so she chose to be reborn in his dog’s litter in an attempt to reunite
us. We drove 13 hours to Kentucky to pick up our new puppy, and named her Namaste, to honor the soul within her. Shortly after bringing Namaste home, we were hosting a Tibetan Lama named Drupon Thinley Ningpo Rinpoche. I told him about my dreams and he confirmed that my puppy’s former self was indeed my old dog Cypress. He told me that in Tibet, dreams are used to help locate and find many of their reincarnated Lamas. He gave Namaste a blessing, but with this wonderful dog in our lives, I feel as though we’re the ones who are blessed.
Sonoma Urn Company A final expression of caring for your beloved pet.
Fine American Handcraft
www.SonomaUrn.com 800-995-9553 animal wellness
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what's gnu? It’s more than mud You’ve heard of people taking mud baths for their health. Now your dog can share the benefits with Dead Sea Mineral Mud Scrub from Divazi. This natural spa and holistic grooming product features a mixture of Dead Sea mud and minerals, eucalyptus oil, aloe and vitamin E. It exfoliates and moisturizes the skin, relieves allergies, itching, hot spots and irritations, alleviates eczema and reduces shedding. It also relaxes your dog and leaves his coat looking soft, silky and shiny. www.divazi.com
“Want a cookie?" It’s a phrase every dog soon comes to know well. He’ll learn it even quicker if you give him treats that are both healthy and tasty. Nuzzles Duck & Cherry Cookies for Fussy Pups from The Honest Kitchen are a tantalizing treat made from a wholesome combination of barley flour, duck, molasses, filtered water, eggs, chicken fat, cherries and aged parmesan cheese. Rich in fiber, the cookies have a luxurious flavor your canine will love. www.thehonestkitchen.com
Sales Skyrocket In Wake of Recall Since this spring’s massive pet food recall, thousands of consumers who have lost faith in commercial products are turning to manufacturers of premium diets. At a consumer pet show in Chicago this March, for example, staff from Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Company (www.evangersdogfood.com) sold around 200 cases of food in one weekend. The Only Natural Pet Store, meanwhile, has seen its sales of dog and cat food soar by over 50% since the recall began, and has responded by providing information on the recall investigation and by educating consumers on why natural pet food is a better alternative. www.onlynaturalpet.com
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Small is Beautiful According to the American Kennel Club, the Yorkshire terrier is the second most popular purebred dog. In fact, small dogs of many breeds are gaining in popularity, especially among apartment dwellers and those who like to take their animals when traveling. Along with the Yorkie, the Chihuahua and the Maltese, here are some lesser-known small dog breeds: • Affenpinscher • Chinese crested • English toy spaniel • Havanese • Japanese Chin • Norfolk terrier • Norwich terrier • Silky terrier • Tibetan spaniel • Toy Manchester terrier • Toy fox terrier
Strengthening the human-animal bond A $400,000 gift to the University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine may give both people and dogs a boost. The gift from the Roetheli Lil’ Red Foundation will support the Research Center for Human Animal Interaction, which promotes awareness of health benefits associated with this unique bond. Thanks to the gift, a new program facilitating animal assisted therapy with seniors will make it possible for people in nursing homes, retirement facilities and their own homes across Missouri to be visited by animals and their handlers. http://rechai.missouri.edu/main.htm.
Water To Go Summer’s a busy time of year for you and your dog. Wherever you go, it’s important to remember to bring fresh water for your canine. The Water Rover portable pet water bowl features an attached water bottle that lets you quickly and conveniently give your dog a drink, whether you’re in the car or on the beach or hiking trail. The leak-free Water Rover clips easily to your belt or waist band and comes in seven bright colors, including a brand new trendy pink. www.waterrover.com
Victory for Massage Practitioners On April 18, animal lovers in Washington State celebrated a victory as both the Senate and House approved Senate Bill 5403, supporting animal massage practitioners. The new law allows an individual to practice as a certified animal massage practitioner by obtaining 300 hours of instruction in animal massage training. Formerly, you were required to either be a licensed human massage practitioner with a 100-hour endorsement in animal massage, or a licensed veterinarian technician. “The passing of SB 5403 will not only open up more options for those living in the state of Washington, but also for people who are moving here,” says Cheryl Gordon, Director of Marketing at Northwest School of Animal Massage. “Individuals who have taken animal massage training outside Washington will now be able to apply it toward state standards for certification. Bill 5403 will not only set new standards in Washington State but also nationally.” www.nwsam.com
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Few things are worse than having your dog sprayed by a skunk. You can cut through the stink with Omega Zapp Skunk Odor Conditioning Shampoo from NuHemp Organic Botanicals. This latest addition to the company’s product line is all natural, 100% biodegradable, and hypo-allergenic. Made with certified organic ingredients including hemp seed oil, alfalfa, chamomile, Echinacea, nettle, apple cider vinegar and red clover, Omega Zapp is formulated for deep, gentle cleaning that removes tough odors, including skunk. www.nuhemp.com
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animal3/2/07 wellness 89 11:02:47 AM
animal communication
TUNING IN by Terri Diener
M
Mae met her new person, Sendy, under less than ideal circumstances. She was two years old and had just been retired from greyhound racing. She had spent her entire life in a crate, in intensive training, or in competitive racing. She was transported from Florida to Maryland in a crate with another retired greyhound and delivered to a temporary foster home.
her, and she would become instantly alert, ready to pounce. Sendy was afraid her fear-aggression would go beyond snarling and growling. She called me to find out how to help Mae settle into her new home and new life.
Sendy – a single mom of two teenaged boys – had contacted Greyhound Pets of America (the greyhound rescue group) a couple of months previously. She told them she wanted a younger adult dog who got along with cats. Mae fit her requirements, and went to her new home just days after arriving at her foster home.
With Mae’s photo in my hand and Sendy on the phone, I started to communicate with Mae. The first thing Mae did after we said hello was to show me a mental picture of a racetrack, with its typical chaos and frenzy. Then she showed me a picture of her trainer – a tall, thin man wearing a leather cap and jacket – harshly pulling her from her crate and shoving
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Mae didn’t know a lot of things. She had to learn how to climb steps. She had never seen a window or sliding glass doors. She didn’t know how to play, and she was wary of people – especially tall, thin men. She was literally afraid of her own shadow when she went for a walk. Certain noises and movements frightened
She was particularly worried about two things. Mae would growl and snarl when Sendy’s brother came into the house wearing a leather jacket and leather cap. She would exhibit the same behavior when her sons brought friends to the house and the noise rose to a level only adolescent boys can create.
her into a gated pen. She gave me a sense of her life as a race dog: confinement, running, then confinement again; lots of people making lots of noise; a gun firing. The more she told me, the more I felt her terror. I felt chills going up and down my back and marveled at how well she was doing with this kind of abuse as her legacy. The leather jacket and cap that Sendy’s brother wore, and the noise the boys made, reminded her of the track. She forgot that she was with new people in a whole other life, and her fear kicked in. She would flashback to the track, then cower, then pace, and then growl. This is classic post-traumatic stress. Managing these situations required constant vigilance. I told Sendy that Mae didn’t do well with surprises, and that she needed to know what was going to happen. I also coached Sendy on how to give Mae clear messages – making sure her thoughts and feelings were consistent and sending clear, sharp mental images along with her words. She decided to brief the boys on the strategy she would use with Mae, so they could do it, too.
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They began by telling her when they would be returning home each day. They usually remembered to give her advance warning of anything unusual that was going to happen.
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Sendy asked her brother to wear something other than his leather jacket and cap when he visited. This helped a lot. Mae was still wary, and Sendy’s brother was still guarded, but the snarling and growling stopped.
"The more she told me, the more I felt her terror." When the boys’ friends visited and Mae started showing signs of distress (whining, pacing, and panting which usually preceded the growling and snarling), they would mentally tune in to her and silently remind her that she was with them now, in her forever home, and that she would never have to go back to the track. In spite of their initial skepticism, they found that Mae’s agitation diminished whenever they followed this procedure.
It didn’t matter to her that she didn’t have a field to run in. She would run circles – first in one direction and then the other – in the flat area of her backyard. When she grew tired of that, she chased her tail. She would sit on a hill and just observe, while other dogs in the neighborhood would bark at everything in sight. She only barked at squirrels and rabbits, which she would chase whenever the opportunity presented itself.
by Healthy Pet Systems Presented to:
Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation Linda Blair Dr. Ed Sulkowski wishes his friend continuous success with her work which involves educating the public and working with city officials to end pet over-population, as well as working on a national level to put an end to dog fighting. (www.lindablairworldheart.com)
Photo: Christopher Ameruoso
Mae lived until she was fourteen, and never grew complacent with her new life.
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animal wellness
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This is a racing machine. She loved when her dog friends came to visit – as long as they didn’t stay overnight. She said she was very happy being an only dog.
This is NOT.
Help End Greyhound Racing Nationwide info@grey2kusa.org www.GREY2KUSA.org
To find out how you can help, call 1.866.2GREY2K for a free brochure.
And she loved stuffed animals. Teddy bears were her favorite, but rabbits, raccoons, and squirrels were acceptable replacements. Mae found that the past doesn’t have to predict the future. She learned to trust that humans can be kind and sensitive in spite of early experiences with those who were mean and cruel. Her ability to discern who would be safe unfolded throughout her life. Mae’s Message: “Sometimes things in our new life make us remember our old life. Remind us that the bad things will never happen to us again now that we’re with you.”
From the book The Pets Speak, Copyright © 2007 by Terri Diener, published by WingSpan Press. Reprinted with permission from Amy Opperman Cash, Publicity for Publishing. For ordering information, visit www.petspeak.com.
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book reviews Title:
Your Cat
Editor:
Elizabeth M. Hodgkins, DVM Esq.
Diabetes, obesity and kidney disease are just some of the health problems that plague our cats. Not surprisingly, poor quality food is a major contributor to these conditions. In Your Cat: A Revolutionary Approach to Feline Health and Happiness, veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins takes a frank look at the serious flaws in commercial cat foods and the negative impact they have on feline well being.
Then You Need An Identity Theft Protected Pet Locator™ • Pet Locator™ Can Find You In Seconds Not Days • No Need To Find A Chip Reader If Your Pet Has A Pet Locator™ • 100% Lifetime Free Replacement If Your Pet Locator™ Is Damaged • The Last Pet Tag You Will Ever Need • Pet Locator™ Protection 24/7 Order today: www.smartitag.com Or call 1-800-475-9419 Dealer Inquiries Welcome
In Part 1, Dr. Hodgkins talks about the lifestyle of today’s cats, and the problems of commercial foods. The next three parts of the book are devoted to kittens, adult cats and seniors, and cover a range of care and feeding aspects for each stage, including dietary requirements, health problems, and how to help prevent disease. Part 5 is devoted to the “Ten Great Myths of Cat Care” and discusses various misconceptions such as the “benefits” of dry food and annual vaccination, and other erroneous beliefs surrounding diet and care. You’ll also find handy info on how to read pet food labels and understand nutrient analyses. A must read for all cat lovers. Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books
Title: Seat Surfin’ Seat Covers
No more tangled, filthy blankets that won’t stay in place!
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Also avail for bucket able & RV coucseats hes!
Gentle and graceful, greyhounds make wonderful companion animals. Tragically, thousands are killed every year in the racing industry because they can’t run “fast enough”. The good news is that many of these beautiful dogs are being rescued and adopted by groups and individuals dedicated to greyhound welfare.
Greyhound Tales: True Stories of Rescue, Compassion & Love is a collection of heart-warming stories written by some of these rescuers and adopters and edited by Nora Star, who has been involved in animal welfare issues all her life. Read about Demi, a greyhound in Ireland who was tied to a headstone in a graveyard and left to die in the rain before being saved by Marion Fitzgibbon of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and adopted into a loving home. Or Lance, an ex-racer who spent his whole life in a cage and had to overcome a fear of open spaces before relaxing into a healthy new life with his adopters. Filled with happy endings, Greyhound Tales is a wonderful and uplifting read.
See style options online at
www.soggydog.ca 94
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Publisher: Lost Coast Press
Title:
Visiting the Dog Park
Editor:
Cheryl S. Smith
Dog parks can be a lot of fun, not to mention a super way to exercise and bond with your canine companion. But you also have to consider your dog’s safety as well as that of other park users.
Visiting the Dog Park: Having Fun, Staying Safe helps you determine if your dog is ready for the park, and if your local dog park is designed with safety in mind. It provides you with some ways to prepare for your park experience, such as evaluating your dog’s personality and temperament, and how to read canine body language and resolve potential conflicts. You’ll also learn what a well-planned dog park should include and what park etiquette is all about. A chapter of training tips will help ensure your best friend is park-safe while a resource section at the back offers leads on how to find or create a dog park or learn more about training, canine socialization, and dog park rules. Publisher: Dogwise Publishing
Title:
Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs
Editor:
Martin J. Scott and Gael Mariani
Flowers remedies are a safe, gentle and easy way to treat stress. Written by the founders and directors of the Society for Animal Flower Essence Research, Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs shows you how you can use this effective healing modality to help your canine companion deal with a range of stress-related issues, from motion sickness, behavior issues and separation anxiety, to grief, vet visits and convalescence from illness or injury. The book opens with a history and explanation of Bach Flower Remedies and how they work, then moves into a detailed description of each of the 38 remedies and how they can be used for both people and dogs. Red Chestnut, for example, is ideal for dogs who are too emotionally bonded to their guardians, while Honeysuckle can help animals who are depressed by the loss of a companion. You’ll also find practical information on how to give the remedies to dogs, along with answers to common questions about flower essence therapy. Publisher: Findhorn Press
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Is your pet a little sensitive?
book reviews Title: Dogs
and Dads
Photographer: Sandra
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“I always thought there was no time to think about the present. Since living with Jessie, she’s taught me there’s no time BUT the present.” This is just one of the wise and wonderful sayings from Dogs and Dads, a beautiful collection of black and white images of men and their canine companions by professional photographer Sandra Bolan. Each photo is accompanied by a quotation from a “dog dad” about the love and comradeship he shares with his furry friend. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes touching, always thought-provoking, this collection is a true celebration of the bond we share with our dogs. “True happiness is simple: a quiet moment of reflection with a good friend.” This delightful book is the perfect way to reflect on the special relationship we share with “man’s best friend”. Publisher: Fetch it Up!
Title: Why
Animals Matter
Authors: Erin
E. Williams & Margo DeMello Dog and cat lovers sometimes find themselves grappling with an ethical dilemma when feeding meat to their companions. What about the lives of the creatures that go into making the food? It’s a difficult issue and just one of many discussed in Why Animals Matter – The Case for Animal Protection by Erin E. Williams and Margo DeMello.
This thoughtful book offers a concise yet complete overview of the problems of animal suffering and links them to larger issues of human and environmental exploitation. The authors examine a variety of industries that use animals for various purposes, from agribusiness and the cosmetic industry to circuses and rodeos, and also looks at the adverse effects this exploitation has on both the environment and human beings. Provocative and reader-friendly, Why Animals Matter isn’t just sad news. It also includes positive case studies of rescued animals along with inspiring stories of individual successes. Publisher: Prometheus Books
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food & treats communicators retailers — etailers health products & services grooming
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communicators
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Phone consultations are available Escondido, CA • (760) 796-4304
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The Smiling Blue Skies ® Cancer Information Centre Home of Smiling Blue Skies® Jewelry, Ceramics, and Limited Edition Gifts
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ALL proceeds to cancer treatment and research, and the building of Canada’s first cancer centre for animals, University of Guelph Pet Trust.
Anaflora Flower Essence Therapy for Animals Help restore physical, emotional and spiritual balance in your animal companion. Created by animal communicator Sharon Callahan, the specialized formulas include: Return to Joy: for abuse of any kind Recovery Remedy: for physical trauma and emotional shock Tranquility: for everyday nervousness Harmony: for the introduction of a new animal or human baby Relocation: for moving stresses Aggression: for the overly aggressive dog Special Stress: for relief in stressfull situations
To order, call the Animal Store at1-866-926-1245 or visit anaflora.com
ProDen PlaqueOff™for pets Just a sprinkle a day for healthier teeth and gums Proven effective against Tartar • Plaque • Bad breath Save on costly dental fees at the vet for less than $15/bottle! Good for a year! More information at:
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WormGuard Plus Broad Spectrum Safe and Effective for Elimination of All Intestinal Parasites • animal and fowl wormer • 100% all natural ingredients • kills mechanically not chemically • eliminates all intestinal tract worms • money-back guarantee!
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classifieds Animal Communicators LYNN McKENZIE, Inte LYNN McKENZIE, International Anim 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, (250) 656-4390. 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 angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org
PetAlive.com - Proven herbal and homeopathic remedies for cats and dogs, including kennel cough, UTI, cancer, parasites, joints and more. Treat your pet the natural way! Wholesale/retail/ affiliate inquiries welcome. Visit http://www.petalive.com?cmp=ah07
free-standing cat fencing system, turning any backyard into a safe, secure paradise for cats, with proven health & behavioral benefits. www.PurrfectFence.com or 888-280-4066.
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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.
NANNOSIL LIQUID COLLOIDAL SILVER & SILVER GEL - One of nature’s best natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal & general germ fighter available for all living things. 800-567-4812 or nannosil@yahoo.com BREAK THROUGH! - StemPets™ and StemEnhance™ naturally supports stem cell release from the bone marrow. Startling results! Listen to 1-800-722-3155 or call 1-888-538-8944. www.patgory.com.
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INSPIRING ANIMAL MESSAGES - Allow your own animals, dolphins, whales, any species, alive or in spirit, to offer Inspired Guidance in your life. Personal coaching from animals sharing their Unconditional Loving Wisdom. Satisfaction Guaranteed Morgine 360-247-7284 morgine@tds.net www.communicationswithlove.com
INTERNATIONAL ASSN. FOR ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK - www.IAAMB.org Professional association supports, networks and promotes complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, referrals, newsletters, insurance, conferences, lobbying and credentialing. Welcome practitioners of animal massage and bodywork. 800-903-9350
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
DOGS and FOLKS Dog Behavior Consulting Gloria Ascher, IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Sensitive approach to understanding, preventing, and resolving simple to complex dog behavior problems. Phone consultations. www.dogsandfolks.com 530-468-2770
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. ANIMAL SPIRIT HEALING & EDUCATION NETWORK (TM) Teleclass training modules and on-site courses. Animal Communication, Animal Reiki, Grief Support Skills, Tellington TTouch, Shamanic Healing, Flower Essences, Essential Oils, Species Behavior, Lost Animals, Marketing & Business Development. www.animalspiritnetwork.com , Carol Schultz at 815-254-8325 PATRICE RYAN – Renowned Psychic, Medium & Intuitive Healer. Featured tv, documentary and radio interviews. Available for telephone Readings and On-Site Energy Work. (818)241-2624 PatriceRyan.com JANET DOBBS – WORKSHOPS AND CONSULTATIONS. Animal communication, Animal/human Reiki. Deepening the bond between animals and humans. For information about hosting a workshop in your area. janet@animalparadisecommunication.com, (703) 648-1866 or www.animalparadisecommunication.com
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Behavior & Training
Books & Publicationss GREYHOUND TALES – True stories about these wonderful dogs. They are sensitive, intelligent, beautiful, playful, loving. You may even choose to adopt! Send $15.00 to 9728 Tenaya Way, Kelseyville, CA 95451
Business Opportunities PET LOVERS WANTED - Join a team of home based business owners. Great tax deductions. Earn $700-3,000/mo. very part time. Not sales. Do what you already do. Call Michelle at 561 702 5459. www.oxyfreshww.com/michelle/ 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.
Healing Essences
Holistic Breeders RIGHTWAY SPHYNX & MINIATURE PERSIAN CATS – CFA, TICA. (Persians Under 8” tall.) Breeding purebreds since 1972. I feed only natural foods – always have, always will. Fully guaranteed. Will ship. 718-625-6540
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 HOSPITAL, REHAB & K-9 FITNESS CENTRE – Dr. Janice Huntingford, Dr. Glen Porteous, Dr. Yvonne Innes, 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.essexanimalhospital.ca GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL - Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the animal and client. Guelph Animal Hospital (519)836-2782 MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER - Dr. Mark Newkirk, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Metabolic Nutritional Analysis, Ozone Treatments, Laser Pain Therapy, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination), Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Alternative Cancer Therapies. Phone consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031
WORK AT HOME WITH YOUR PETS! - Leave the “rat race” behind. Potential for serious entrepreneurs and pet lovers, to earn executive level pay. Very lucrative, fun and powerful business system. 800/305-5481 www.secret-biz.com/financialpeace
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
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sive treatments for your animal companions. Effective treatment for acute, chronic and firstaid conditions. Call Marilyn at 416-697-7122, or e-mail at homeomom@hotmail.com. PetAlive.com - Proven herbal and homeopathic remedies for cats and dogs, including kennel cough, UTI, cancer, parasites, joints and more. Treat your pet the natural way! Wholesale/retail/ affiliate inquiries welcome. Visit http://www.petalive.com?cmp=hom07
Pet Portraits ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS - Specializing in oil painting for 31 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 GET FABULOUS PHOTOS OF YOUR DOG TODAY! - “Whose your Doggy?” photography creates beautiful natural light or studio portraits. Visit our website: www.whoseyourdoggy. com or call 416-927-7830 in Toronto
Rescues & Shelters Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue, Inc. We do more than rescue Yorkies. Browse thru our Country Store where we have many upscale items which will set your Toy Breed apart from the rest. Plan to attend our Yorkie Ball in October. See www.yorkierescue.com. For information and support groups, please visit: http://www.livershunt.com or http://www.collapsingtrachea.com.
Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & THERAPIESOffers instruction and training for small animal massage providers at locations in IL, WI, VA, and NC as well as classes in maintenance and sports massage for animals in the Chicago-Milwaukee area. Info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com 847-782-1963 (voice) 847-782-5725 (fax) www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com 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 ASSISI INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL INSTITUTE - Offers basic and advanced animal communication workshops and a Professional Animal Communicator Certification Program. You and a friend can attend our Skills Development Workshop for free by sponsoring it in your local area. Education@AssisiAnimals.org; AssisiAnimals.org; 510-532-5800. STRENGTHEN YOUR HUMAN/ANIMAL BOND BY LEARNING ANIMAL MASSAGE. Small, hands-on classes taught by internationally recognized LMT, author and founder of Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc. Free brochure: 1-800-251-0007, wshaw1@bright.net, www.integratedtouchtherapy.com
Travel DogFriendly.com - Dog travel guides with United States and Canada dog-friendly lodging, campgrounds, attractions, parks, beaches and restaurants. Books and free online guides at <http://www.dogfriendly.com/guides> www.dogfriendly.com/guides.
HOMEOPATHY, REIKI - Safe, gentle, non-inva-
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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events July 20-22 – Mundelein, IL Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class includes evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy; instruction in sports massage; an examination of practical business issues; an introduction to other holistic modalities used with animals; and, whenever possible, a visit to a shelter or rescue to work with the animals. For more information: Companion Animal Touch & Therapies, 847-782-1963 info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com July 27-29 – Reston, VA Advanced Animal Communication workshop This class is for those who have completed the Basic 2-day Animal Communication course and wish to continue to deepen their connection with animals. As you continue to open your heart to heart connection with animals and all that is, you will gain more experience, knowledge, guidance and inspiration. This will be a weekend of fun and surprises. Discover your power animal. Come experience the magic. Prerequisites: The Basic 2-day Animal Communication Workshop. You may also take this workshop if you have completed a basic animal communication course with another teacher. For more information: Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com July 28 Noon – 4 p.m. Venice Beach Boardwalk, Santa Monica Beach Walk for Country Critters Help raise needed funding for our sanctuary and educate people about compassionate living choices as we walk down the Venice Beach boardwalk. Your participation will help us open our doors to many more suffering farmed animals and teach people that farmed animals are friends, not food! All funds raised will help us build rehabilitation pens for suffering farmed animals. Please participate in this lifesaving effort.
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For more information: Estela Diaz Carmona 661-269-5404, info@animalacres.org www.animalacres.org August 10-29 – San Francisco, CA Fort Mason Center Animals: Compassionate Skills & Support This series of workshops has been designed to assist participants in making a difference by bringing awareness of the role of animals as teachers, companions, healers, and as equal travelers on life’s journey. It has been designed to prepare participants to understand animals culturally as well as behaviorally, and to support others through their grief over the loss of their beloved companions. Finally, this series has been designed to prepare participants to be professional animal communicators. All workshops may be taken individually, as a series, or as part of the training for Assisi’s Professional Animal Communicator Certification. 88.5 hours. No prerequisites. For more information: 510-532-5800 Education@AssisiAnimals.org, AssisiAnimals.org August 11-12 – Reston, VA Animal Reiki Level I workshop Reiki Level I is for animal people who want to deepen their relationships with animals and learn ways to heal the animals in their lives as well as themselves. This class will give you an overview of animal Reiki and you will learn the differences and similarities between Reiki for humans and Reiki for animals. Through lecture, enlightening discussion, exercises, observation and practice, Janet will lead you through the basic steps. Students will experience Reiki energy and learn different ways that Reiki can be used as a healing tool for both humans and animals. For more information: Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com August 24-29 – Circleville, OH Canine Massage Specialty Workshop This workshop is our Canine Massage Level 1 & 2
Workshop streamlined for LMTs, RMTs, CMTs and LVTs, RVTs, CVTs and DVMs only. Sports and relaxation massage techniques, canine behavior, body language, physiology and canine anatomy are part of the curriculum as well as business applications, joint movement & gait analysis. Safety, ethics, record keeping, business practices and networking discussions will be held. Small, hands-on classes, taught by a licensed massage therapist with over 14 year’s experience. Lodging available. For more information: Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc., Rebecca Bangert, Office Manager 1-800-251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net www.integratedtouchtherapy.com August 25 – Acton, CA 5 p.m. –11 p.m. Animal Acres Gala Let’s glam up the farm by celebrating our annual Gala in style! We’ll have an enchanted evening filled with gourmet vegan delights, inspiring entertainment, and special appearances by Hollywood’s famous friends of farmed animals. Compassion awards, silent auction, and more. All proceeds benefit our Emergency Rescue Fund. For more information: Animal Acres Estela Diaz Carmona, 661-269-5404, info@animalacres.org, www.animalacres.org September 6-8 – Circleville, OH Feline Massage Workshop Feline massage introduction teaches feline massage using adapted Swedish and Sports Massage techniques. We cover surface anatomy and physiology, personality traits and body language. Safety, record keeping, ethics, and networking are part of the curriculum. Cats are most welcome; please bring them in a crate or something for their “safe haven”. This workshop is taught by a licensed massage therapist with over 14 years experience. Small, hands-on classes. Lodging available. For more information: Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc. Rebecca Bangert, Office Manager 1-800-251-000, wshaw1@bright.net www.integratedtouchtherapy.com
Post your event online at: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events
Guess these
mystery mutts! Our canine companions, especially mixed breeds, come in all shapes and sizes, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all irresistible! See if you can guess which breeds make up the mutts shown here. (Answers at bottom of page.)
1
"Scruffy" (7-year-old male)
2
All these magnificent mutts are available for adoption through
www.pawschicago.org
"Ashley" (3-month-old female)
3 4
"Spanky" (1-year-old male)
"Dustin" (2-month-old male)
Thank you to Pets911 for helping coordinate our Mystery Mutts page! www.pets911.com animal wellness
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ANSWERS: 1. Terrier mix/West highland 2. Lab mix/Chow 3. Terrier/Boxer 4. Border collie mix
The tail end
Happy endings by Lida Sideris
P
uppies! The very thought conjures up gleeful balls of fur. An enchanting little pup would be the perfect addition to our family. However, on the way to purchasing our puppy, we accidentally maneuvered onto a road that led to a local Australian shepherd rescue organization. There we met two-year-old Rio, desperately in need of a home. It was not love at first sight. Rio barked nonstop the entire six minutes of our visit. My husband took our two children and headed for the car while Rio’s latest foster parent kept yelling over the ruckus, reassuring us that he really was a good dog. We drove around and had lunch. As my husband headed toward home, I knew we had to go back for Rio. If we didn’t, he’d soon be the dear, departed Rio. Upon our return, he again greeted us with his exceptionally loud, unrelenting bark. Either miraculous intervention or plain old-fashioned stupidity made me insist we bring him home.
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A few days after Rio joined us, I realized I might have made a mistake. This was not because he ripped out our entire rose garden drip system. Or because he completely destroyed his food dishes. His incessant barking was not unexpected – we already knew he had honed the gift of the gab. What was unacceptable was the way he herded my kids. He nipped at their clothes, warning them to stay put. Several pairs of jeans and sweatshirts were ruined in the process. My children rallied to Rio’s defense. They didn’t mind being treated like sheep. I contacted the rescue. “Rio is just being obnoxious,” I was informed. “He needs a firm hand and obedience training.” I used an empty corral and decided to home school Rio while awaiting the start of obedience classes. He was surprisingly attentive as long as there were no distractions (cats, squirrels, other dogs barking, the wind). As for attending obedience training, let’s just say Rio did better with a private tutor. So what’s the big deal about flunking obedience school?
Eight years have passed since Rio first came home with us. His bad habits, including his non-stop barking, disappeared once he realized he had a family. Not only is he a superb watchdog, but he has learned to herd our goats, keeping them at bay while we fill their feed bins. Okay, he does have some jealousy issues. When the goats eat alfalfa, he insists on eating the same, even though he looks like he’s enjoying it as much as he would raw seaweed. Rio no longer needs to wreck havoc just to get attention. He is loyal, affectionate and shows us daily that he is grateful to us for giving him a chance. When his stumpy tail wags, his rear end practically lifts off the ground from the wiggling, while a wide grin curls around his head. Rio found what he needed. And so did we. If you have an amusing story you'd like to submit, send it to: Tail End, at submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com
Nature’s peace of mind flea control. Beneficial Nematodes are on the cutting edge of
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older dogs physically and mentally. � Supports joint function � Enhances mobility and
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animalwellness To advertise in the Ontario Region section of Animal Wellness Magazine, contact Lesley Nicholson at: 866-764-1212 lesley@animalwellnessmagazine.com
ontario RE
G
ION
New standards needed to improve the lot of by Melissa Tkachyk
Ontario’s zoo animals
Like many people, I remember visiting the zoo as a child and how thrilling it was to see so many animals from around the world all in one place. I couldn’t believe how close I could get to a tiger, and that the deer would eat right from my hands. My next trip to the zoo, more than 20 years later, would be a completely different experience. This time, I wasn’t just looking at the animals but also the cages they were kept in. Over the past two years, I have visited dozens of zoos as Program Officer for the World Society for the Protection
of Animals (WSPA). I’ve found that many fail to look after even the most basic needs of their animals, such as
ensuring they have clean drinking water, appropriate food, shade, shelter and sufficient space to move around in. Social animals like monkeys are often housed alone in small, barren enclosures with just a food and water dish and a box to sleep in. With little to do day in and day out, many animals pace endlessly back and forth – a telltale sign of boredom and frustration. Ontario has the weakest zoo regulations and animal protection laws in Canada. animal wellness – ontario region
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All zoo owners require is a license to keep some native wildlife in captivity, and the conditions of the license are minimal, vague and poorly enforced. Two-thirds of all zoo animals are not native to Ontario, however, and no license at all is needed to keep lions, tigers, monkeys and other exotic wildlife in cages. Owners can keep them in pretty much any condition they see fit.
Zoo animals like this tiger are often housed in barren enclosures with little privacy or shade.
There are more than 45 zoos in Ontario (more than in any other province) and the vast majority are “roadside zoos” – small, substandard facilities that lack trained professional animal care staff and the financial resources necessary to ensure proper animal care and housing.
A 2007 poll indicates that 97% of Ontarians agree that zoos should be required by law to meet professional standards of animal welfare and public safety. Fortunately, this issue has been gaining significant political and public attention. Last year, Ontario’s Environmental Commissioner criticized the government for failing to protect captive wildlife. This is the first time the province’s eco
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Standards of care Among other requirements, Bill 154 listed several standards of animal care that a zoo owner would have to adhere to: “(a) the provision of an appropriate diet and potable drinking water at all times; (b) the provision of space sufficient to allow for the expression of species-typical behaviors, movement and exercise; (c) the provision of appropriate substrates, shelter, privacy, furnishings and environmental enrichment; (d) the provision of a physical environment that satisfies the full range of biological and behavioral needs, whether at the licensee’s premises or away from them;
watchdog has spoken out on an animal welfare issue. A couple of weeks later, Willowdale MPP David Zimmer introduced Bill 154, The Regulation of Zoos Act, which would require zoos to comply with professional welfare and safety standards. While this private member’s bill died when the legislature prorogued in early June of this year, the government nevertheless has the power to bring about changes in roadside zoos without new legislation. Changes could be made to Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife regulations that would allow the government to quickly implement standards for all zoos. The widespread public support and media interest this issue has received has garnered the attention of MPPs of all political stripes, so such a move would certainly be popular.
(e) the provision of an appropriate social environment; and (f) the provision of appropriate veterinary care.” Although the bill has died, you can still contact your MP and let him/ her know you want changes to Ontario’s zoos.
Confined to small cages, red kangaroos like Tyson are unable to hop the way they should.
CANIDAE Lamb & Rice Formula uses Human-grade
When candidates come knocking on my door prior to October’s election, I will tell them that Ontario’s zoo regulations and animal cruelty legislation are woefully inadequate and ask what they intend to do to about it, if elected. I encourage you to do the same. In order for animal welfare legislation to become a higher priority at Queen’s Park, candidates need to know that animals matter to voters.
Lamb and nutritious, whole grain, brown rice. It is formulated to meet the nutritional standards established by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for all life stages. CANIDAE Pet Foods Goes Beyond Just Feeding Your Pets!
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1 800 665-2139 www.canidae.com
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Melissa Tkachyk is the Program Officer for the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), the world’s largest federation of humane societies and animal protection organizations. Through direct field work, campaigning, legislative work, humane education and training programs, WSPA is working to create a world where animal welfare matters and animal cruelty ends.
Dean Ricard with some of Mountain Dog Food’s product offerings.
Mountain Dog Food offers consumer education as well as high quality diets
Tracey and Dean Ricard have been raising Bernese mountain dogs for many years. In the mid-1990s, they started to wonder if their feeding practices were affecting the health of their dogs. “We looked around at several commercial foods from ‘high quality’ to ‘bargain brands’,” says Dean. “All seemed to satisfy our dogs’ energy needs to varying degrees. The problem was that their overall health didn’t improve. Some of the foods led to coat problems or loose stools, and these weren’t always the ‘bargain brands’. We still had plaque building up on teeth. In general, these foods did not meet our expectations. Then it occurred to us that maybe the dog food processing had surpassed the genetic capabilities of dogs to metabolize it.”
Tracey started investigating raw natural diets and read everything she could find on the topic. The couple was so impressed by what they discovered that they created their own raw dog food. “The results
were dramatic,” says Dean. “The dogs’ dental hygiene improved. Their coats improved. Their litter sizes and health improved. Their stools improved. This time, our expectations were met!”
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sold across most of Canada.
Dean and Tracey soon found that others were interested in what they were saying and doing. The next logical step was to invest in some equipment that would allow them to produce enough food to fill the growing demand. In April of 2000, Mountain Dog Food officially opened its doors as a business. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, the company now produces millions of pounds of frozen raw pet food that is shipped and
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Mountain Dog Foods uses meat from inspected sources only. They grind the meat (including bones) and then mix it with fruits and vegetables including carrots, celery, apples, yams and dehydrated alfalfa; the mix contains 70% meat and 30% fruit and veggies. The food is then frozen, eliminating the need for any artificial preservatives, and is available in a variety of package sizes for convenient feeding. “Feeding the product is as simple as thaw and serve,” says Dean. Several product choices are available, including the company’s standard Alpine Formulation, and a Low Fiber and Small Dog diet, which includes organ meat and string beans. The Ascension
Formulation contains organ meats and a vitamin and mineral supplement for a raised nutrient profile, while Opti-Joint includes elk velvet antler for dogs with joint issues. The company even offers an all-meat Cat Food made from chicken and turkey. A selection of supplements is also available. But Mountain Dog Food does more than sell quality diets. “We focus on educating the consumer rather than selling them a product,” says Dean. One look at their website (www.mountaindogfood.com) confirms that customer education is certainly a priority. You’ll find a wealth of information on digestion, health issues and proper feeding that help you clearly understand the positive impact a wholesome diet will have on your animals. “We now produce more food than we ever thought possible,” says Dean. Given his and Tracey’s passionate dedication to good canine nutrition, is it any surprise?
by Molly Barber, AHT
Rehab aids
by Molly Barber, AHT
help injured dogs recover better
One moment, your dog is dashing across a field in pursuit of a squirrel. The next, he’s yelping in pain and hobbling back to you on three legs. A trip to the vet determines your beloved companion has torn his cruciate ligament and now faces surgery to help correct this injury in the knee joint. He’s also faced with months of rehab and, in some cases, a drastic lifestyle change.
This is one of the most common injuries seen in animals and one of the most frustrating for both dogs and their caregivers. If the dog is young, it can be very difficult to control his activity during the sometimes long recovery period because he needs some way to burn off excess energy. Although he’s at great risk of damaging the other leg due to compensating or overuse, you may soon find you’re ready to give in and let him do what he wants because you can’t stand to see him bouncing off the walls!
Luckily, a variety of rehab aids, together with therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic, hydrotherapy, massage and magnetic therapy, can assist you and your dog through the recovery period, while helping the dog get stronger and minimizing further injury.
Brace up When an animal sustains a cruciate ligament injury in the knee, he will compensate
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and use the other limb more. This puts added weight stress on the “good” leg and increases the risk of that limb incurring the same injury. A knee brace can address this issue.
what everyone is reading in waiting rooms, offices, grocers, fitness centres and pharmacies across the Greater Toronto Area
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A knee brace supports not just the injured leg, but the good one as well.
When a companion animal is presented to us at Canadian Animal Rehab Services to be measured for a brace, there is always atrophy in the affected limb as a direct result of disuse. The design of the brace, which has been arrived at from various consultations with many health care professionals, supports both legs. We need to stabilize the affected limb and reduce undesirable movement, but we also need to support the good limb to minimize the possibility of the same injury there. With the support the brace provides, an animal quickly realizes that this part of his body feels more comfortable; he will therefore be more willing to use the limb, which means the muscles and structures surrounding the injury site are strengthened. After four to six weeks, caregivers notice an improved comfort level in their dogs. Even in the most severe cases, where an upper thigh measurement can differ by up to 4” between the two legs, there is already an increase in the atrophied muscle size by approximately one inch. As time goes on and a physiotherapy program is put in place, the animal will continue to strengthen and reach the point where he only has to wear the brace during more energetic, high risk activities.
For different injuries, other assistive devices such as hock braces and forepaw braces help encourage an animal to use an affected limb.
A new set of wheels What about an animal that will never regain the use of his affected limbs, whether rear or front legs? In this case, a “wheelchair” can dramatically change his situation from not being able to walk (or struggling to do so), to chasing a ball or going for walks again. The wheelchair provides him with a renewed gift – mobility – and thus a greatly enhanced quality of life.
A wheelchair gives dogs their mobility back.
Without these rehab devices, an animal’s chances for a better and stronger recovery are not as high. These aids are also invaluable for animals that are not able to have surgery due to other medical issues. Our mission is simple: “to improve the quality of life of the pet, while addressing the need for short or long term treatment of joint or spinal injures”. Combining various therapies with these specialized rehab aids helps us realize this important goal.
Molly Barber
began her career in animal
care after she completed her training as
Animal Health Technician. She is the Canadian Animal Rehab Services (www.animalrehab.on.ca) in Mount Albert, Ontario. an
co-founder of
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Pete Wilson gives some TLC to Reiley and Taz.
Fostering is a way of life
by Ann Brightman
for this dynamic duo
Once a dog lover, always a dog lover. It’s a sentiment that could easily apply to Ann and Pete Wilson, who have been rescuing dogs of all shapes and sizes for no fewer than 30 years. It began when a friend of theirs, who was also Vice President of the Alliston & District Humane Society, asked if they would be interested in fostering a dog. “They didn’t have a shelter so were relying on volunteers,” says Ann. “We said yes, and it just snowballed from then on.” Ann and Pete continued fostering dogs for the humane society, and were later also approached by the Animal Alliance of Canada in Toronto. “They were trying
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animal wellness – ontario region
to rescue dogs from shelters that sold them for research. We were very much against that whole concept, of course, so said we’d help. At one time we were fostering for both the Alliston Humane Society and Animal Alliance. Now, we’re mostly rescuing for Animal Alliance, but we also help out the Etobicoke Humane Society, whom we’ve been involved with for about ten years.” Ann and Pete’s Foster Home for Dogs
(www.annandpetesrescuedogs.com) is located on a spacious property in Pottageville, Ontario, about halfway between Toronto and Barrie. On average, the couple fosters around 200 dogs a year, though they try to keep the numbers down to five or six at a time. “We will occasionally go up to ten, if a few dogs come in that we’re not totally expecting, but we don’t warehouse or collect dogs. Our prime motivation is to place them in homes.” The dogs come from many different situations and places, including out of province and even out of Canada. “Our general opinion is that if we have the space and there’s a needy dog that
someone asks us to take, we really don’t care if it’s in Quebec or Newfoundland or Ohio. Just last week, we took two dogs from James Bay. A lady who lives fairly close to us does some volunteer work at a reservation up there and came back with two dogs and nowhere to put them, so we took them.” One of the first priorities Ann and Pete attend to when a dog arrives is his or her medical needs. “Every dog that comes to us is neutered and spayed. We also do all the vetting. Only last week, we had a little Maltese come in from a local pound. She just went to the vet, probably to have most of her teeth removed, because the person who had her before didn’t bother to do any dental care and her teeth are practically rotting out of her head.” Another key priority is training. “We both belong to an obedience club,” says Ann. “I’ve competed in obedience and have had the highest-scoring
Newfoundland and Dalmatian in Canada, so we’re fairly skilled at teaching dogs the basics, which obviously makes them more adoptable. If a dog leaps in someone’s face or doesn’t know how to sit, people just say ‘oh well, we can’t manage that one.’” The couple also walks and exercises their canine charges twice daily. The dogs are adopted out to homes in diverse locales, including the U.S. and Quebec. “We had a lady fly here from New Brunswick last year to adopt an elderly setter.” A lot of care is taken to place dogs in the right homes, and the screening process is meticulous. “Just because someone wants a border collie doesn’t mean they’ll get one if they work all day or live in an apartment. We are more concerned with the needs of the dog than the perceived needs of a person who wants a wagging tail to come home to after eight hours of being away.” Dogs are also not adopted out to anyone who uses pesticides on
their lawns. “We’ve been adamant for years that pesticides are a leading cause of death in dogs.” The funding needed to care for the dogs comes mainly from Animal Alliance, which depends on public donations to finance its work. There’s also an adoption fee, which usually covers the neuter/spay costs, but not those for additional health issues. “We always say if people can afford a donation on top of the adoption fee, that’s wonderful,” Ann says. “We also have food donated to us by vet clinics and other people who support us.” Over the years, Ann and Pete have helped save the lives of thousands of dogs. Given their unflagging dedication to fostering and caring for needy canines, and finding just the right homes for them, it’s clear they look on this important work as a true labor of love.
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Woofstock 2007 – Animal It gets bigger and better every year! North America’s largest outdoor festival for dogs, Woofstock 2007 took place June 9 and 10 in the heart of downtown Toronto. Close to 140,000 dog lovers and their furry friends descended on the historic St. Lawrence Market neighborhood for this annual high-energy entertainment and consumer show. More than 200 vendors were on hand while zany contests, fashion shows and a rescue walk-a-thon added loads of extra color and fun. Animal Wellness Magazine was there with professional photographer Peter Organa, conducting a model search for future covers, as well giving out plenty of tips and advice. It was a great weekend, and the gorgeous weather made it even more of a success! Photos: AJG
We have moved to a larger location in East York to serve your better, visit us at 45 Cranfield Road, Unit 5 416-690-1077 or email tania@caninewellness.com
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