V2I3 (Summer 2012)

Integrative Peer Reviewed

veterinary care

world vets International

why Veterinarians volunteer to help animals in developing countries. Page 28

Environmental medicine Exposure to toxins, stress, and other influences plays a big role in many disease states.

www.IVCJournal.com

summer ISSUE 2012

PTSD in dogs Well-known in humans, it’s now affecting some dogs. Treatment can be challenging and depends on the needs of the individual patient.

Glandular therapy Given advances in oral tolerance and increasing autoimmune diseases, does GT deserve a place in veterinary medicine?

Food sensitivities

They can manifest in several ways but the solution is simple – and it may include alternative proteins.

Equine thermal imaging It’s gaining recognition thanks to improved cameras, standardization, and proper image interpretation.

What’ s new?

• NASC awards gala • Learn about hospice • New cardiac health surveys

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Columnists & Contributing Writers Suzi Beber Tom Cameron, DVM W. Jean Dodds, DVM Barbara Fougere, BSc, BVMS, BHSc, MODT, MHSc, CVA, CVBM, CVCP, CMAVA Jean Hofve, DVM Janice Huntingford, DVM Eleanor Kellon, VMD Cindy Kneebone, DVM Heidi Lobprise, DVM, DIPL. AVDC Mark Newkirk, VMD Richard E. Palmquist, DVM, Past President AHVMA, Co-Director AHVMA Foundation Pedro Luis Rivera, DVM, FACFN Joanne L. Robson, DVM Jochen Schleese, CSFT, CMS CEE Lisa Wagner

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contents FEATURES

12

Glandular therapy

12

Does it have a place in veterinary medicine? Given recent advances in oral tolerance, along with the increasing incidence of autoimmune diseases in dogs and cats, the answer is yes.

16

The case for curcumin

20

This natural substance found in turmeric provides antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties, and may have important veterinary applications for horses and other animals.

20

PTSD in dogs

It’s a well known syndrome in people, but dogs can also develop it. Treatment can be challenging and depends on the needs of the individual patient.

28

22

Environmental veterinary medicine

integrative veterinary care

Are you giving your patients too many vaccines? As more clients and veterinarians express concerns about the dangers of over-vaccination, it’s a good idea to review your own practice’s protocol.

45

Facing the right way?

Saddle tree points – direction, angle and width – critically impact equine scapular health. Let’s look at the importance of direction.

46

Much ado about mulch

28

52

Veterinarians and other animal health professionals with World Vets donate their time and skills to help care for animals in developing countries.

32 4

40

Rethinking equine vaccinations–part 1

Advise your clients not to use cocoa mulch – it can be toxic to dogs.

Nutrition nook Sensitive stomachs & skin

56

It’s been utilized in the equine industry for over 40 years. But the technology only recently gained the recognition it deserves, as the cameras have improved, standardization is introduced, and veterinarians become familiar with proper image interpretation.

Exposure to toxins, stress, poor diet and other outside influences can play a major role in the development of many disease states.

For the love of it

36

36

Equine thermal imaging

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

Tech Talk Healing hues

An introduction to veterinary color therapy, and how you can use it with your patients and in the clinic setting.

56

Integrative Practice Finding CAVM specialists

Want to augment your practice by working with practitioners in complementary and alternative medicine? We talk to three integrative veterinarians for their suggestions on how to find these specialists, and what to look for.

advisory board Columns & departments

5 Advisory board 6 What’ s new?

31 Spotlight 44 Veterinary resource guide 50 Industry Innovations

Dr. Richard Palmquist, DVM, graduated from Colorado State University in 1983.

He is chief of integrative health services at Centinela Animal Hospital in Inglewood, California, president and research chair of the AHVMA, and an international speaker in integrative veterinary medicine. Dr. Palmquist is a consultant for the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) and co-director of the AHVMA Foundation. He has published two books, one for conventional veterinarians and a second for clients discussing how integrative thinking works.

Michelle J. Rivera, MT, VDT, is an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and The Healing Oasis Wellness Center, a post-graduate educational institution offering state-approved programs. She is co-owner of The Healing Oasis Veterinary Hospital, offering massage, rehabilitation, chiropractic and Chinese and Western Herbology.

Michelle completed the Chinese Herbal Medicine program from the China Beijing International Acupuncture Training Center, and is certified in Chinese Medicine by the Wisconsin Institute of Chinese Herbology.

61 Marketplace 62 Events

Dr. Joyce Harman, DVM, MRCVS, graduated in 1984 from Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. She is certified in veterinary acupuncture and chiropractic and has completed advanced training in homeopathy and herbal medicine. Her practice in Virginia uses holistic medicine to treat horses.

Her publications include The Horse’s Pain-Free Back and Saddle-Fit Book – the most complete source of information about English saddles.

Dr. Steve Marsden, DVM, ND, lectures for the IVAS, the AHVMA and the AVMA, and is co-founder of the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies. He is a director of the National College of Natural Medicine, and authored the Manual of Natural Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Marsden is extensively trained in alternative medicine, including Chinese herbology, acupuncture and naturopathic medicine. He has a veterinary and naturopathic practice in Edmonton, Alberta.

In 2010, Dr. Marsden was named Teacher of the Year by the AHVMA.

Dr. Jean Dodds, DVM, received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she moved to Southern California to establish Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals. Dr. Dodds has been a member of many national and international committees on hematology, animal models of human disease, veterinary medicine, and laboratory animal science. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994.

Dr. Christina Chambreau, DVM, graduated from the University of Georgia Veterinary College in 1980. She is a founder of the Academy Of Veterinary Homeopathy, was on the faculty of the National Center for Homeopathy Summer School and has been the holistic modality adjunct faculty liaison for the Maryland Veterinary Technician Program. Dr. Chambreau teaches classes in homeopathy for animals, and lectures on many topics. She is co-author of the Homeopathic Repertory: A Tutorial.

Bill Bookout is a founding member of the NASC, serving as president and chairman of the board since 2002. He is founder and president of Genesis Ltd., a company that provides feed and health products for animals. He spent 15 years in the human medical device, drug and animal health industries. Bill received his Bachelor’s degree in physical sciences from the University of Wyoming, and an MBA from Pepperdine University. He has been selected by Health Canada to serve on the Expert Advisory Committee for Veterinary Natural Health Products.

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what’s new Heart of the matter Quality of life is accepted as an important predictor of survival among human patients with heart failure. Now, veterinarians at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University have developed two surveys that may prove to be similarly useful in evaluating the quality of life for dogs and cats with heart disease.

Known as “FETCH” (Functional Evaluation of Cardiac Health) and “CATCH” (Cats’ Assessment Tool for Cardiac Health), the surveys ask owners to rank aspects of their dog or cat’s health on a scale of 0 to 5. Veterinarians are then able to assess the animal’s perceived quality of life, which may inform decisions about treatment, nutrition or euthanasia. Researchers found that the FETCH and CATCH scores correlated well to the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification for disease severity.

The survey tools were developed by Professor of Clinical Sciences Lisa M. Freeman, board certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, and Professor of Clinical Sciences John E. Rush, board-certified cardiologist at the veterinary school’s Foster Hospital for Small Animals. vet.tufts.edu

MRI technology locates tumor Using a special piece of MRI equipment, doctors from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine were able to remove a dangerous brain tumor from Callie, an eight-year-old English setter.

Using high-tech surgical equipment called the Brainsight MR frameless neuro-navigation device, MU surgeons were able to take an MRI of Callie’s brain and create a 3D model. The model allowed the MRI to guide the doctors to exactly where their instruments needed to go to remove as much of Callie’s tumor as possible.

“This equipment not only assists in open surgeries like Callie’s, but allows us to pinpoint any region of the brain with extreme accuracy, allowing us to perform biopsies through a hole the size of a pencil,” says Fred Wininger, an assistant professor of neurology and neurosurgery at the college.

MU surgeons use new high-tech equipment to remove a dangerous brain tumor.

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Callie is currently undergoing radiation therapy to prevent the tumor from returning. She is able to take long walks and the MU doctors believe she will live several more years. munews.missouri.edu/news-releases/2012/0418-mu-veterinary-surgeonsuse-advanced-mri-technology-to-locate-dangerous-tumor/

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A law with heart Veterinarian Dr. Kenneth Newman (right) of St. Petersburg, Florida has proposed a piece of legislation that would change the way the law regards animals. Gracie’s Law would recognize the emotional bond between animals and people by entitling the owner of an animal killed through an act of malice or negligence to $25,000 in damages.

Current laws mean people are entitled to no more than the replacement value of their animals. No law takes into consideration the grief, pain and loss suffered by those who lose a beloved companion.

Cases involving the bond between pets and people are showing up more often in the courts, Dr. Newman says. For example, this past April, a Denver judge awarded Robin Lohre $65,000 for the death of her dog, Ruthie. Lohre had accused Posh Maids cleaning service of negligence for allowing the dog to get outside, where she was hit by a car. Dr. Newman notes this sets a new precedent for pet value, but cautions that such uncapped awards may threaten affordable veterinary care. To read more about the proposed law, visit meetmeattherainbowbridge.com.

Feeling the bite Thanks to the recession, Pert Group and Brakke Consulting say fewer pet owners are going to the vet. A survey of 1,200 dog and cats owners found that pet owners visited the veterinarian nearly 20% less last year than in 2007 – if they went at all. In 2011, 77% of respondents took their dogs or cats to the veterinarian, compared to 88% in 2007, when the study was first conducted.

Pending legislation could erode even more of what pet owners spend at the vet. Under the Fairness to Pet Owners Act, veterinarians would be required to write prescriptions whether or not they actually dispense the medication.

Traditional pharmacies would be able to fill prescriptions, creating additional competition. A majority of respondents indicated they would fill those prescriptions outside the veterinary channel, at least some of the time. brakkeconsulting.com or thepertgroup.com

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Unique degree programs Recognizing a need within the equine industry for specific job training programs, education and standards, the University of Guelph has established Equine Guelph, which takes a unique focus on all things equine. It offers hands-on programs at the university’s three campuses (Guelph, Ridgetown and Kemptville) in areas such as Performance Horse Handling, Leadership through EquineAssisted Discovery, and Veterinary Technology.

For those who want to expand their knowledge but can’t get away, Equine Guelph offers an excellent series of online courses, including their Equine Science Certificate and Equine Studies Diploma. These courses give you an opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s best on topics like behavior, nutrition, genetics and environment. equineguelph.ca

Learn about hospice Veterinarians and pet parents are recognizing that terminal illness and the dying process are different from normal life stages. To promote the need for greater understanding and education in the area of end-of-life care, the second annual Animal Hospice Awareness Day will be held November 3.

The International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC) will be promoting this year’s Awareness Day through online education and by hosting its second annual conference on the weekend of November 1 to 4. This conference, “GPS – Guide to Pet Hospice Success”, will take place in Denver, Colorado. It will present practical tools for successfully operating an animal hospice service, as well as technical training on the various procedures needed within a hospice and palliative care operation. It is open to veterinarians, technicians, animal hospice case workers, and all those who wish to support the human-animal bond. IAAHPC.org

Funds for the Foundation The AHVMA Foundation’s One in a Million campaign ran June 25 to July 2, and raised close to a whopping $450,000 for education and research in just that two weeks. “We represent millions of people who use complementary and alternative, integrative health care on themselves, their families, friends and animals,” says veterinarian and AHVMA past president, Dr. Rick Palmquist. The campaign’s goal was to get one million people to donate one dollar each to the foundation. “If each of us donated one dollar a month for 12 months, in one year we would have exceeded our research goals. It could change the way we practice medicine. We could fund over 30 major studies with that money.”

At the time of writing, the Foundation was raising funds for acupuncture research. “In August, we are raising money for vaccine reform research, like the Rabies Challenge Fund,” says Dr. Palmquist.

For more information, or to donate, visit foundation.ahvma.org.

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NASC awards gala The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) hosted its 2nd annual awards gala on May 10 at Scripps Seaside Forum in La Jolla.

Many companies were celebrated for extraordinary efforts in their commitment to quality, education and improving the standards of the animal health supplement industry.

Award for efforts above and beyond in promoting the goals of NASC and the NASC Quality Seal in all aspects of their business.

They included FoodScience Corporation, Herbsmith Inc., Med-Vet Pharmaceuticals, Nutri-Vet, Uckele Health and Nutrition Inc., Vets Plus Inc. and many others. Vist animalsupplements.org to learn more.

• A Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Frank Ballard, president of HBH, one of the nation’s premier specialty pet comanufacturers. Ballard was instrumental in setting up the framework of NASC to operate as the nonprofit trade organization it is today.

He was honored for his dedication to NASC and the animal health supplement industry.

• Wells Fargo Insurance Services USA received a MVP Supplier Award in recognition of its commitment to quality, education and continuously improving the standards of the animal health supplement industry. Working with its underwriters, Wells Fargo Insurance Services developed a vital program that provided discounts for NASC members on product liability insurance.

Mike Uckele, CEO of Uckele Health and Nutrition, receives a NASC Visibility Award from Bill Bookout, NASC Immediate Past President.

• Over 20 NASC audited member companies received a Visibility

Sanctuary success story The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Ocala, Florida is a state-of-theart center dedicated to the healing and conditioning of equine athletes. But they also provide effective cutting edge therapies and services for canines, such as y rap the er las Paris, a four-year-old dachshund. ld After receiving co mpletely recovered

Photo courtesy of John Gavender

co treatments, Paris isy and lively little dog. and is now a happ

“She has had chronic back problems and by the time she turned four she was about 90% paralyzed,” says her owner, John Gavender. “Our small animal vet was giving her steroids and muscle relaxers, but it wasn’t working so he suggested cold laser therapy.... I took her to The Sanctuary and after only one day of cold laser treatment she tried to stand. It was amazing because within two weeks she was almost back to normal and now she is 100% recovered.”

Cold laser therapy has been lauded for its success on humans, equines and canines. It works to relieve pain and soreness in the legs and back, reduces swelling and heat, tightens legs and speeds healing. sanctuaryequinerehab.com

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Joining forces Kemin Industries Inc. recently completed its acquisition of Genesis, a companion animal supplement company and maker of the brand RESOURCES™ – health supplements marketed exclusively to veterinarians. As part of the acquisition, Kemin purchased all health supplements marketed under the RESOURCES brand, which includes supplements for immune and urinary support as well as joint and general wellness products. Kemin will continue to be an NASC member and carry the organization’s Quality Seal.

For more than 50 years, Kemin has used science and research to enhance the nutrition and health of humans and animals. It manufactures and markets ingredients used in animal feed, pet food, health supplements and personal care products.

The joined forces of Kemin and Genesis will ensure customers can look forward to enhanced technology and an expanded selection of product solutions for companion animals. kemin.com/about

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Glandular Therapy

by Tom Cameron, DVM

A

Does it have a place in veterinary medicine? Given recent advances in oral tolerance, along with the increasing incidence of autoimmune diseases in dogs and cats, the answer is yes. piece of kidney sits on a plate. Would you eat it? Would you offer it to your dog or cat? While most of us would recoil in horror, most pets would eat that slab of kidney with relish.

Dogs and cats are predators. For millennia, they’ve survived by eating other animals. The first parts eaten by wild carnivores are typically the abdominal contents (liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenals, pancreas) because the highest priority is placed on eating these organs. Muscle meats are often left to scavengers, or eaten at a later time. The genetic makeup of dogs and cats is historically, in combination with other factors, based on a diet that includes organ meats. But what is the value of consuming organs, specifically glandular tissues? To answer this, it is necessary to look at both history and current science.

Much like animals, human culinary traditions worldwide have included the consumption of organs and glands as dietary staples.

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Up until the 1950s, foods like liver and kidney made up a regular part of the American diet. Civilizations have long prized internal organs for their health benefits, considering glands as “functional foods” that have positive effects on health. Historically, glandular tissues have been revered for their rich, dense nutrient content, as the most valuable parts of animals used for food.

Writings from as early as 1600 B.C. describe the consumption of liver to treat night blindness. Other organs have been fed to sick people and animals to support healing, regeneration, and return to function. This practice has become known as glandular therapy.

Glandular tissues promote health Glandular therapy (GT) refers to the practice of using whole animal tissues to support or promote the healthy functioning of a body’s internal organs. Glandular tissues contain vitamins, minerals, enzymes, peptides, nucleotides,

and other nutrients, specific to each organ.

Starting in the early 1900s, scientists actively sought to break foods apart, looking for the “active principles” responsible for health benefits.

Once isolated, a compound could be manufactured synthetically and concentrated at lower costs, effectively replacing GT. This led to the isolation of many “active principles” including thyroxine (1926), estrogen (1941) and cortisone (1936). Predictably, the practice of GT rapidly lost favor. By the mid-1940s, GT had largely disappeared from use in medical practice.

From 1940 to the 1980s, little was done to advance the therapeutic use or clinical research of glandular tissues. With the exception of whole thyroid extracts (Armour Thyroid and others), most other glandular therapy products disappeared. Classic double-blinded cross-over studies on GT have not been performed, and data supporting the use of glandulars is primarily based on historical use.

Oral tolerance Recently, scientific interest in the therapeutic potential for gland and organ tissues has increased with advances in oral tolerance or oral tolerization (OT).

In terms of gland or organ therapy, OT refers to the process of feeding specific animal proteins, termed oral auto-antigens, to a patient with an autoimmune condition. When the gland or organ protein is fed to the animal and passes through the gut immune tissue, it is thought to desensitize the body’s immune response to these proteins, thus calming the body’s response to its own similar tissue. During this process, immune cells are transformed from “attacking” or “inflammatory” cells to less reactive cells, termed “regulatory” cells. OT also stimulates the production of “regulatory cytokines” that help to moderate inflammatory responses within the body. For example, a patient with chronic colitis could be fed colonic proteins. Studies have shown that feeding these patients the same protein that matches the compromised tissue in the body stimulates immune cells to release inhibitory cytokines, substances that can suppress inflammation and the autoimmune response.

Oral tolerance refers to the process of feeding specific animal proteins, termed oral auto-antigens, to a patient with an autoimmune condition.

Designed specifically for geriatric pets, Cholodin® may help with the following symptoms: Disorientation, confusion • Loss of appetite • Increased sleep time

While the first work on OT occurred in the 1890s at the same time that GT was common in medical practice, OT has been shown to suppress autoimmune processes in both animals and humans. Examples include multiple sclerosis, diabetes, asthma, antigen-induced arthritis, and encephalitis. The primary area of interest for OT is in management of autoimmune conditions.

Continued on page 14.

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Like supports like GT is based on the theory of “homostimulation” or “like supports like.” For example, an animal eating a piece of liver is taking in nutrients that closely resemble his own liver, providing the body with similar building blocks and fuel for repair.

Practitioners can think of it like this: a damaged liver needs a specific and complete combination of amino acids and other materials to rebuild functional liver cells. In GT, the most complete source of materials for liver repair would be healthy liver cells. What about brain damage? A closer look at brain tissue reveals a rich source of fats (phospholipids, Omega-3 and other fatty acids) vital to the repair and maintenance of brain tissue. Bovine trachea and cartilage contain glycosaminoglycans, important compounds (like hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate) for joint health. As mentioned before, “like heals like”.

A damaged liver needs a specific and complete combination of amino acids and other materials to rebuild functional liver cells. In GT, the most complete source of materials for liver repair would be healthy liver cells.

Continued from page 13.

While the exact mechanism of OT is still unclear, the potential benefits are significant. OT therapy has been shown to be effective, safe, non-toxic, and may offer significant benefits in supporting the body’s response to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

OT and GT Oral tolerance and glandular therapy share a number of common threads. GT is part of historical culinary and medical tradition, and OT has been under investigation for over 100 years, with significant recent findings. Both systems use glands, or substances isolated from glands, to support positive changes in compromised organs. Both operate on the “like supports like” premise.

Neither has a clear understanding of their mechanisms of action. However, both OT and GT provide food-based nutrients that potentially affect overall optimal organ function.

Based on recent advances and the clinical results in oral tolerance, coupled with the historical use of glandular tissues, there are compelling reasons for veterinarians to reconsider the value of glandular therapies. Given that veterinarians have seen a significant increase in the number and severity of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases over the past several decades, it brings the question back to the evolution of the dog and cat’s diet and the need for these animals to consume glandular tissues in some fashion.

Today, most pet foods do not include glandular tissues as ingredients –

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the animal tissue in these foods is mostly muscle meat. The removal of this traditional food group may be contributing to the growing number of chronic health conditions seen in pets today. Many recipes for home cooked pet diets now include glandular tissues (liver, kidney, spleen) in an attempt to create a more ancestral diet. Advances in oral tolerance coupled with renewed interest in glandular therapy fit together well in the growing use of food as medicine.

Tom

Cameron, DVM, his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University.

A long-time proponent of canine and feline nutrition, earned

he speaks nationally on the role of whole food nutrition in veterinary medicine, and about clinical findings and the and development behind Standard Process Veterinary Formulas. Dr. Cameron is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association. research

References Bitar DM, Whitacre CC. Cell. Immun. 112, 364-370 (1988).

Faria AM, Weiner HL. Oral Tolerance, Immunol. Rev. 2005 Aug: 206: 232-59.

Harrower HR. Practical Endocrinology. Pioneer Printing Co., Glendale, CA. 1932.

Lee RL, Hansen WA. Protomorphology. Lee Foundation for Nutritional Research, Milwaukee, WI. 1947.

Mowat AM, Pabst O. Oral Tolerance to Food Protein, Mucosal Immunology, Vol 5 No 3, May 2012, pp. 232-239.

Mowat AM, Parker LA, Beacock-Sharp H, Millington OR, Chirdo F. Oral Tolerance: New Insights and Prospects for Clinical Application, Annals of the New York Academy of Science, Vol 1029, Dec. 2004, pp. 1-8.

Nussenblatt RB, et al. J. Immun. 144, 1689-1695. 1990.

Shanahan C, Shanahan L. Deep Nutrition Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food. Big Box Books, Lawai, HI, 2009.

Weiner HL. Oral Tolerance for the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases. Annual Review of Medicine, Vol 48: 341-351, 1997.

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The case for

This natural substance found in turmeric provides antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties, and may have important veterinary applications for horses and other animals.

by Eleanor Kellon, VMD

I

nterest in naturally occurring substances for medical applications is growing rapidly. One of these substances is curcumin, a major active ingredient found naturally in turmeric. Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice prepared from the rhizomes (spreading roots) of the south Asian plant Curcuma longa. It is commonly used to make curries and color mustard.

Curcumin’s use as a natural medicine began in Indian Ayurveda. The antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties of turmeric account for its use as one of the earliest food preservatives. Other traditional

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Ayurvedic uses included the treatment of conjunctivitis, acne, skin wounds, ringworm, eczema, hemorrhoids and other skin conditions. It was burned and inhaled to loosen mucus in the lung. Orally, turmeric was used to treat colds, arthritis, intestinal tract disorders, toothache, poor circulation and anemia, and as a reproductive tonic for both men and women.

Turmeric has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is now well recognized to be a primary component of virtually all chronic degenerative diseases, such as arthritis and heart disease, and is an inherent part of the pathology in a host of others including cancer, allergies, insulin resistance/diabetes and even bone loss.

Many contemporary studies have been done on curcumin and its health benefits. See the chart on page

18 for a list of its medicinal properties and the types of study used for each.

ground whole turmeric versus isolated curcumin.

Dosage issues

Curcumin and equine melanomas

There are problems with tapping into the potential benefits of the curcumin in turmeric because the parent herb has only about 5% maximum curcumin. Curcumin is also poorly soluble in water, which limits its absorption from the intestinal tract. However, work is actively ongoing to develop processing methods to produce curcumin of very small particle size, encapsulated in a water soluble carrier. Emulsification in fat also enhances absorption. However, these preparations are not commercially available.

Anecdotal reports from horse owners suggest turmeric may have beneficial effects on melanomas at dosages below what would be predicted by their curcumin content alone. Melanomas are a common tumor of predominantly older gray horses. The predisposition is genetic, but growth may be triggered by hormonal changes as horses age.

‌work is actively ongoing to develop processing methods to produce curcumin of very small particle size, encapsulated in a water soluble carrier.

Extrapolating from experimental data on curcumin, it could take as much as 8 to 16 ounces of turmeric to deliver an effective dose to a horse. However, while curcumin is well studied and has proven properties, it is not the only biologically active compound in turmeric. Beyond historical use information, we have no data comparing effects of feeding

Equine melanomas are not malignant like the human variety, and are classified according to their microscopic appearance.

Some bear a close resemblance to a type of human mole under the microscope while others appear more aggressive. It has been found that inflammation and reactive oxygen species/ free radicals play a pivotal role in the spread of these tumors.

Three horses with prominent and/or growing and spreading melanomas were given 1 to 3 ounces/day of ground turmeric.

In all cases, the growths shrank and the spread was stopped.

Since the behavior of melanomas is unpredictable, this small number of reports cannot rule out the possibility that the growths would have quieted down or shrunk on their own.

However, it’s an intriguing starting point and hopefully future

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Here is a list of some of the medicinal properties curcumin offers. This is only a sampling of the studies out there. An online PubMed search reveals over 4,500 peer-reviewed studies.

Healing property

Type of study

Suppression of cancer spread

Both cancer cell line cultures and living laboratory animals.

Antioxidant/anti-inflammatory

Both cell culture and various diseases in humans and animals, such as arthritis.

Analgesic

Animal pain models. Interestingly, this effect is seen with injections directly into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord so this is a direct anesthetic effect, not related to anti-inflammatory effects.

Protection against heavy metal toxicity

Proven in laboratory animals. This is an extension of its ability to both help prevent the production of free radicals and neutralize existing free radicals

Prevention of insulin resistance and obesity

Rats fed a high fat diet with the addition of curcumin were protected from insulin resistance. Dose was 4 grams of curcumin, equivalent to 80 grams of turmeric, per kilogram of diet. Note: it worked by suppressing the changes in fat metabolism characteristic of IR in rats and man, but this is not a prominent feature of insulin resistance in horses.

Protection from degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

Validated in cell cultures; currently undergoing clinical trials sponsored by the National Institute of Health. This is largely an antioxidant effect and could be of interest in preventing or slowing Cushing’s disease in horses, which is associated with oxidative stress in the brain.

Prevention of chemically induced pancreatitis

Laboratory animals.

Healing of NSAID induced gastric ulcers

Laboratory animals. Can both prevent and heal by inducing healing growth factors. research into the use of turmeric or curcumin will include the horse and equine specific issues.

As a final note, while an individual may have an adverse reaction or allergy to any substance (including drugs), curcumin in other species has proven extremely safe with no side effects even at dosages equivalent to 80 grams (2.8 ounces) of turmeric for a human, or 329 to 480 grams (11.6 ounces to 16.9 ounces) for a horse. This is an excellent track record and also puts turmeric at the top of the list as a nutraceutical of interest for horses.

Eleanor Kellon, VMD, currently serves as the Staff Veterinary Specialist for Uckele Health & Nutrition, a leader in the formulation, development and manufacture of quality nutritional supplements. An established authority in the field of equine nutrition

Three horses with prominent and/or growing and spreading melanomas were given 1 to 3 ounces/day of ground turmeric. In all cases, the growths shrank and the spread was stopped.

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for over

30 years, Dr. Kellon is a valuable resource in

the field of applications and nutraceuticals in horses.

She formerly served as Veterinary Editor for Horse Journal and John Lyons’ Perfect Horse and owns Equine Nutritional Solutions, a thriving private practice.

Dr. Kellon is the author of many books on a variety of medical and nutritional topics and has contributed to both lay and professional publications.

Celebrating

25

years

of oral health

by Heidi Lobprise, DVM, Dipl. AVDC

For those who can, think back 25 years (for you “youngsters”, go back to when you first graduated). Now consider the level of dental care you were providing your patients at that time.

Since dental education “back then” wasn’t very thorough, it was a struggle to provide good care. However, in the years since, immense strides have been made, from university programs to continuing education. Along the way, support from companies like Virbac Animal Health, through means such as innovative and practical products and even education (see VirbacUniversity.com), have become an important part of providing a complete dental care program in clinics.

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complete dental program should start with regular oral A examinations to determine the estimated level of periodontal disease, with recommendations recorded for treatment options. In the exam room, paying attention to other issues such as broken or discolored teeth in dogs, or tooth resorption in cats, can help you alert the pet owner to potentially painful and infectious conditions.

2

T he next portion of the dental program includes the professional care you provide patients. A complete dental cleaning with thorough assessment, including periodontal probing, intraoral radiographs and dental charting, allows you to communicate therapy options to owners. While most pets will just need a complete cleaning (and perhaps some extractions), procedures such as endodontics (root canal), prosthodontics (crowns) and other oral surgery are possible.

3

he program is completed with some level of home care.

T Because no matter how well the procedures are done at the clinic, without client support, the ultimate outcome will not be as successful. Virbac Animal Health provides a wide range of home care options, from toothbrushes and pastes to chews and water additives. We believe the practice team is the best resource for recommendations of home care for pets, and have been a trusted partner with veterinarians to provide this care since the CET® brand of products were introduced 25 years ago. integrative veterinary care

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Stress Disorder It’s a well known syndrome in people, but dogs can also develop it. Treatment can be challenging and depends on the needs of the individual patient.

P

by Janice

Huntingford, DVM

ost Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been recognized in military personnel, firemen and policemen for a number of years.1 Recently, however, it has been found that horrific experiences can cause dogs to develop PTSD, and this includes household pets as well as military canines.2

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PTSD is defined as “an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat.”4 It has been estimated that about 5% of the 650 million military dogs being used today suffer from PTSD.2 Dogs are considered the most effective means of detecting hidden explosive devices and so are extensively used by the US military. It is easy to see why military combat or bomb detection dogs, as well as search and rescue canines who have to find bodies after disasters, might be subject to this syndrome. However, civilian dogs can also fall victim to PTSD in a number of circumstances. If a dog is abandoned

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to live in the wild, has been through a natural disaster like Hurricane Katrina, or is abused or has lost his caretaker, he could develop PTSD. Unfortunately, many rescue dogs could fall into this category.7

Treatment can be challenging Treatment for any dog that suffers from PTSD can be very difficult and depends on the individual patient.

• Sometimes the dog needs time off work.

• Other cases require desensitization training.

• Many times, retraining is combined with drug therapy for anxiety. Many of the drugs used to treat separation anxiety in dogs are used for PTSD. Drugs such as clomipramine, fluoxetine and amitriptyline are the most commonly used pharmaceuticals for this condition.5 • Exercise and play are other important facets of therapy for these dogs. If they are given the opportunity to run and chase other dogs, to play with their owners, to retrieve, swim, or run an agility course, they recover from this syndrome much more quickly. If the dog relearns how to have fun, treatments are much more successful.3 • Alternative treatments for stress disorders in dogs start

r

with a good, basic, balanced homemade diet. The diet should be supplemented with Omega 3 fatty acids.

• Herbs and nutraceuticals can also help these dogs. L-theanine and melatonin can be helpful in treating PTSD just as they are for other forms of anxiety disorder in the canine.

Chinese herbs have been used for anxiety and aggressive disorders in canines.

• Combining herbs and acupuncture is an effective treatment for anxiety and behavioral problems like PTSD. • Dog appeasing pheromones can also be used to reduce stress in these patients.

L- theanine and melatonin can be helpful for treating PTSD just as they are for other forms of anxiety disorder in the canine.

Cure or management?

The real question is, can these dogs be cured by any or all of these methods? In some cases, they seem to return to normal. In other cases, the dog’s problems need to be managed throughout his life. According to Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman, director of the animal behavior clinic at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, this problem can go on for years and is never truly cured. “It is more management,” he says.

“Dogs never forget.”5

What are the signs?

The symptoms of PTSD in dogs are similar to those seen in separation anxiety or other forms of canine anxiety disorders. Elimination, vocalization and destruction are the most commonly reported signs of separation anxiety6 and of PTSD. Sudden, intense responses to thunderstorms or other noises may manifest as extreme escape behavior in these dogs.

Some dogs become aggressive with their handlers or stop working altogether.2 This can place the military personnel in jeopardy, says Dr. Walter Burghardt Jr., chief of behavioral medicine at the Daniel E. Holland Military Working Dog Hospital at Lackland Air Force Base. “If the dog is trained to find improvised explosives and it looks like it’s working, but isn’t, it’s not just the dog that’s at risk,” he says. “This is a human health issue as well.”2

Boyle, Christina. “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Affects Men and Women Equally: New Study.” New York Daily News.

08 June 2011. Web. 08 July 2012. http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-06-08/entertainment/29651311_1_ptsd-posttraumatic-stressdisorder-iraq-and-afghanistan.

2 Dao, James. “The Dogs of War, Suffering Like Soldiers.” The New York Times. 02 Dec. 2011. Web. 08 July 2012. www.nytimes.com/2011/12/02/us/more-military-dogs-show-signs-of-combat-stress.html?pagewanted=all.

3 Kelley, Lee C. “My Puppy, My Self. The Canine-Human Bond: Can Play Cure PTSD in Dogs?” Psychology Today. 01 Aug. 2011.

Web. 08 July 2012. www.psychologytoday.com/blog/my-puppy-my-self/201108/the-canine-human-bond-can-play-cure-ptsd-in-dogs.

4 National Institute of Mental Health, Web. 08 July 2012. www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml.

5 ”K-9 PTSD – Some Vets Say Dogs Stressed by War, Too.” NoteworthyNews. YouTube, 18 Aug. 2010. Web. 08 July 2012. www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt810OoqDpI. 6 Overall, K. “Natural Animal Models of Human Psychiatric Conditions: Assessment of Mechanism and Validity.” Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. 24.5 (2000): 727-76.

7 Yamamoto, Toshio. “An Unusual Behavior and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)-like Syndrome in Dogs After the Vigorous Earthquake with Seismic Scale of 5+ Degree.” Journal of Veterinary Medicine 984 (2003): 535-41.

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Janice Huntingford, DVM, practices integrative medicine in Essex, Ontario. She is certified in animal chiropractic, acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy. Her clinic features a state of the art underwater treadmill and fitness pool for dogs.

Dr. Huntingford is married and lives on a farm/winery complete with horses, cattle, chickens, cats and dogs integrative veterinary care

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veterinary medicine

Exposure to toxins, stress, poor diet and other outside influences can play a major role in the development of many disease states.

E

by Dr Barbara Fougere, BSc, BVMS, BHSc, MODT, MHSc, CVA, CVBM, CVCP, CMAVA

nvironmental medicine evaluates and identifies potential environmental exposures that may lead to a disease condition. Therapy is aimed at eliminating the cause or reducing exposure, and resolving symptoms through nutritional support and reducing total body stress (physical, emotional, mental). The ultimate goal is to reverse pathophysiology and restore health without necessarily increasing drug load.

Several terms are used when discussing environmental medicine.

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• Xenobiotic refers to a foreign chemical that is absorbed by the body (potential toxicants).

• Detoxification refers to the process by which the body reduces the xenobiotic to a form that can be eliminated or stored.

• The enzymatic system that detoxifies dietary compounds and xenobiotics consists of phase I (oxidative) and phase II (conjugation) reactions in the liver. Many pathways can be used to detoxify a particular compound. If a pathway

is overloaded or the enzymes are being used elsewhere, the chemical can be metabolised into a different metabolite or stored in lipids, later leaking back into the bloodstream.

• Toxic load refers to the total body burden of stressors that lead to disease. For example, a dog with atopy may have food, chemical (insecticide, hydrocarbon), inhalant (mould, dust, pollen) and stress (separation anxiety) overload as triggers for expression in addition to immune defect.

There are a number of influences to consider in understanding the total body burden for an individual dog. The following list is not complete but for consideration in a particular case. It doesn’t matter whether the treatment is conventional or complementary/ alternative, the same approach helps determine contributing factors, and by addressing them, minimize their negative impact on health.

Domestication Wild dogs roam in packs, but the domestic dog often spends all day in a small backyard, often on his own. Wild dogs are free to mate, and the strongest survive, but domestication and selective breeding has brought with it genetic conditions and inherent weaknesses. Whereas wild dogs hunt or scavenge and are occupied with survival, the indoor pooch is provided for, and fed anything but the carcasses of prey or scavenged food.

As dogs were domesticated, they were subjected to these conditionsi.

And while domesticated dogs certainly live longer lives (70% of wolves die each generation), they are now prone to the scourges of modern living – degenerative diseases like arthritis, heart disease, cancer, allergies and chronic skin problems. Dogs can no longer be compared to their wild counterparts. They have been changed radically through their lives with us. They no longer have the same coloring, markings, shape, body size, anatomy, physiology and behaviorii as their wild cousins do.

Free radicals Many lifestyle factors affect our health – high fat diets, not integrative veterinary care

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Free radicals and disease The accumulation of free radical exposure has been implicated as an underlying and important contributor to many diseases, especially degenerative conditions such as arthritis and heart disease, as well as disorders of the skin, eyes, digestive tract and the immune systemiv,v.

Pollution

Poor circulation(injuries)

Inflammation

UV light radiation

Free radicals

Attack the cells of the body

Arthritis

Neuro-disease, Aging, Cataracts

Reduced immune function and cancer

“Causes and Effects of Free Radicals” (Machlin 1993)

enough exercise, too much alcohol, smoking, drugs and stress. Dogs also suffer urban stress.

One of the simplest reasons dogs get sick is because they are domesticated and live in urban environments where they are exposed to free radical attack from many sources. Free radicals cause damage and lead to disease in a very insidious way. UV radiation from thinning of the ozone layer, radiation, microwaves, x-rays and magnetic fields are all possible contributing factors. Furniture and coverings on walls and floors are constantly emitting free radicals as the residues of chemicals used in their manufacture degrade. Cigarette smoke contains one of the densest free radical sources– even third hand smoke residues on clothing can impact animal health!

Even excessive exercise can boost naturally produced free radicals in the bodyiii.

While animals are young, their antioxidant enzymes concentrations are high enough to absorb and counteract most free radicals in the body. With aging, however, the effectiveness of these protective systems slowly wears down. More and more free radicals survive and cause damage to tissues, and over time they wear out the body. The lifelong exposure to free radicals causes the degenerative or “wear and tear” changes associated with aging.

All this is compounded by the fact that many dogs, like many people, usually eat too much and have poor quality diets, and exercise too little.

Stress Probably the most overwhelming influence on a dog’s health is stress. Stress causes the release of catecholamines in the alarm stage, and both catecholamines and cortisol in the resistance stage. Exhaustion, chronic stress or dis-stress can occur as a result of the side effects of chronic catecholamine and cortisol release.

Ask the owner when a chronic series of problems began. Was anything significant happening in the family or in the life of the dog that may have been particularly stressful, emotionally? Is the household harmonious now?

Nutrition Nutrition has a major impact on the health and well being of the dog. Needless to say, the ability of a dog to cope with stress and function optimally is influenced by the quality

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of his diet and the availability of nutrients and energy.

Good nutrition contributes greatly to the vital energy of the body, helping it to keep in balance. On the other hand, poor nutrition or the inability to utilise nutrients contributes to poor health. A nutritional intake is important in the history taking – not just what the dog eats, but his snacks, bones, fresh foods, etc. This helps uncover possible contaminants, malnutrition issues or toxins that might not be apparent to the owner.

Parasites Fleas and internal parasites are a natural part of most companion animals’ lives. Generally, a healthy animal will be able to cope with a small natural burden of parasites. A dog already depleted in energy will be less able to cope. Again, an environmental approach that reduces the need for chemical use is preferable for treatment, regardless of whether parasites exist or not.

Find out what is being used and how often.

Lifestyle Lifestyle plays a significant role in the dog’s health. A sedentary animal is more prone to obesity, lethargy, boredom and behavioral problems. Animals need physical and

mental stimulation if they are to achieve optimal health. It’s worthwhile finding out if members of the human family have problems; often there is a correlation between disease states in animals and their owners. Owners who are out all day, rush home, eat fast food and are stressed may overtly affect their pet’s health too.

The outdoors Carbon monoxide from car exhaust fumes, air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun, low grade radiation, toxic chemicals from weedicides, floor cleaners, insecticides, and fumes from paint abound. A healthy animal can usually

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It’s Tough getting old

by Heidi Lobprise, DVM, Dipl. AVDC

Aches and pains, slowing down, weight gain, diminishing sight and hearing, memory shot to pieces…we can use all these phrases to describe ourselves as we get older. They also apply to our animal patients.

As the pet population continues to “gray”, we have to pay closer attention to issues that can arise in mature, senior and geriatric pets. Since early detection of any problem, from cancer to diabetes, can be helpful to the outcome of treatment, it’s crucial to monitor these individuals for medical parameters that can indicate a disease state.

In some pets, however, certain signs may not be attributable to a specific medical cause, yet “he’s just getting old” isn’t enough of an explanation. As with humans, dogs can experience diminished cognitive function, beyond what can be expected during the normal aging process. The DISHA acronym found in many publications can help alert you and your clients to potential issues: D – Disorientation – may appear lost, confused I – Interaction – may not respond to familiar faces, or becomes clingy S – Sleep-wake cycles – sleeps more during the day, less at night H – Housetraining – eliminates inappropriately A – Activity levels – aimless wandering or decreased focus When cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is suspected, some owners may prefer non-prescription options for their pets.

NOVIFIT® (NoviSAMe®) Tablets contain S-adenosylmethionine tosylate in a patented formulation that has been shown to help improve the cognitive health of both dogs and cats.

With a complete health care program that includes behavior and cognitive function, you can not only extend the lifespan of your patients, but improve their “health span” as well.

cope well with such insults. The body adapts and works to detoxify foreign substances on a continual basis. However, for an unwell animal, pollution and free radical damage can further contribute to poor health.

Veterinary care Most dogs benefit from conventional veterinary care. Their diseases are fixed, prevented and managed. But some animals simply do not get better or cannot cope with normal care.

They may need a lifetime of treatments to suppress or manage the symptoms of chronic disease. Their bodies are already so overwhelmed and stressed that additional drugs or treatments may overload them, making them sicker and unable to return to a normal state of health. Consider vaccination load, flea treatment, heartworm treatment, wormers, shampoos and other common products. What is essential, not from a conventional practice policy point of view, but for this individual patient?

What is the benefit and risk for this patient? Can we delay the use of some of these chemicals or drugs until the animal is well?

To learn more about Environmental Animal Health visit www.civtedu.org/environmental-animal-health.

Dr. Barbara Fougere graduated in 1986, and was named the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Educator for 2011. Dr. Fougere is the principle and one of the founders of the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies. She has continued studying over the last 26 years, and has three Bachelor degrees, two Masters degrees, three post Graduate Diplomas, several Certifications and numerous other courses under her belt.

Resources

Fougere B, Pet Lovers Guide to Natural Healing, Elsevier 2007 Anthony H, Birtwhistle S, Eaton K, Maberly J, Environmental Medicine in Clinical Practice, BSAENM Publications 1997 i Rohrs M, “Domestication of wolves and wild cats: Parallels and differences in Nutrition, Malnutrition and

Dietetics in the Dog and Cat”, Proceedings of an International Symposium, Hanover, September 1987, English Version Edney AT (ed.) Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition

ii Newby J, “The Pact For Survival Humans and their Animal Companions”, ABC Books, Sydney 1997 iii Marshall RJ, Scott KC, Hill RC, Lewis DD, Sundstrom D, Jones GL, Harper J, “Supplemental vitamin

appears to slow racing greyhounds”, J Nutr. 2002 Jun;132(6 Suppl 2):1616S-21S.

C

iv Duncan

K (ed), “Fighting Free Radicals” The Pacific Scientific Press, Auckland, 1998 v Davies K J A, “Oxidative stress: the paradox of life”, In Biochemistry Society Symposium 61 1-31 Portland

Press London, 1995

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Veterinarians and other animal health professionals with World Vets donate their time and skills to help care for animals in developing countries. by

Lisa Wagner

LOVE 28

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t’s 7:30 AM on the small tropical Island of San Andres, Colombia.

Myself and 11 other animal health professionals walk towards the government building we recently converted into a makeshift veterinary clinic. The exterior hallway is already lined with local residents waiting patiently with their cats and dogs. Over the next three days, our goal is to sterilize and provide veterinary care to as many dogs and cats as possible.

We are all volunteers, and have flown from various North American cities to work with World Vets International Aid for Animals (worldvets.org), a non-government organization (NGO) based in Fargo, North Dakota. Since 2006, World Vets has been organizing groups of veterinary volunteers to sterilize and provide veterinary aid to animals in developing countries.

My own involvement started just last year when a friend sent me a Facebook link about World Vets. I work in animal first aid, and thought I lacked the necessary qualifications, but there was a position available for me. So in October of last year, I joined a group of volunteers traveling to Guatemala. We happened to arrive at the tail end of a tropical storm. Mudslides had killed many, lakes were flooded, dogs and cats were displaced and hungry. Both people and animals were in dire need of support. The trip had a profound effect on me, so I quickly signed up for a second one, this time to San Andres Island, Colombia.

I’m far from alone in my desire to volunteer. Brian Arneson, DVM, of Harrisonburg, Virginia said it took him “about 15 whole minutes” to sign up for his first trip when a friend contacted him about World Vets. Our trip to Colombia was his third. And when asked how many trips she’s been on to date, Karen Allum, DVM, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, told me: “I am not actually sure but I think the count is now 17!”

“If I could afford to do this work full time, I would in a heartbeat.”

World Vets kindly allows a couple of “free days” at the beginning of each trip itinerary. This allows volunteers to get to know one another and explore the local culture and landscape. It also gives them an opportunity to learn about one another’s skills and interests, and form a cohesive team.

I worked in Recovery for the duration of the Colombian trip.

I monitored each animal’s vital signs and incisions, administered medications, and released them when they were ready. While I did this, the other volunteers registered, prepped, consulted, sterilized and provided additional veterinary treatment to dogs and cats. Our workdays were ten to 12 hours long and we were all exhausted by the end of each one. But it didn’t matter – every morning we woke integrative veterinary care

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with the sun and were itching to get back to the clinic.

On the second day, one of the local volunteers helping me in Recovery adopted a little female puppy that had just been spayed. “Does she have a name yet?” I asked.

The answer was no, so I jokingly said, “Well, Lisa’s a great name for you little one!”

Her new person quickly replied, “Perfect, I will call her Lisa then!” Tears welled in my eyes as I realized a little piece of me would remain in San Andres when I left.

I was honored.

The exterior hallway is already lined with local residents waiting patiently with their cats and dogs.

At the end of our three days in Columbia, 208 animals were sterilized and an additional 99 were treated for other ailments. I was sad to wrap up the clinic and say “goodbye” to my new World Vets family. I knew we had made a genuine difference to a community in need, and that I had made some lifelong friends.

I returned home knowing I was addicted to World Vets for life. In fact, I’ll be heading to Zanzibar, Tanzania this October with another group of volunteers. Fellow volunteer Elizabeth F. Baird, DVM, of Palm Harbor, Florida, said it best when she told me: “If I could afford to do this work full time, I would in a heartbeat.”

Clockwise from top: The author (right) with a Columbian volunteer and her new puppy, Lisa; Local residents line up with their animals; Thanks to World Vets, this puppy and kitten have bright futures.

Lisa Wagner is the Operations Director of Walks ‘N’ Wags Pet First Aid (walksnwags.com), based in Vancouver, Canada.

She offers Pet First Aid certification courses across Canada with distance learning available worldwide.

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nutrition nook

Sensitive stomachs

H &skin

by Jean Hofve, DVM

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

undreds of different ingredients are used in commercial pet foods, so it’s no surprise that some of them are not well received by the animals eating them.

Food allergies may cause vomiting, diarrhea, pruritis or skin eruptions. However, a reaction to food doesn’t necessarily indicate an allergy. Many pets have a food sensitivity or intolerance, but relatively few are truly allergic.

Food allergies A food allergy is an immune reaction (usually a Type I hypersensitivity reaction) to a particular protein; signs are manifested in either the gastrointestinal tract or skin. Experts believe that between 10% and 30% of all food reactions are allergic. In dogs, a similar percentage of ear infections have an allergic component. However, up to 50% of feline ear infections may be caused by food allergies.

Food hypersensitivities tend to develop over long periods (months to years) in response to foods or treats the pet eats frequently. Food allergies are uncommon in pets under one year of age. Common proteins, and therefore common allergens, include the following: • Beef • Chicken • Fish (cats) • Dairy • Wheat • Corn • Soy • Eggs Food allergies may cause extreme pruritis on their own, but secondary infections with bacteria and yeast are also very common. However, allergic skin disease is far more commonly associated with atopy, fleabite hypersensitivity, or other causes.

Food intolerance Food intolerance usually causes local reactions in the gastrointestinal system. A pet experiencing signs related to food

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Supplements for sensitivities

• Digestive enzymes: Can be given with food to help break down proteins and other compounds more completely, so they are less likely to trigger an adverse reaction or immune response. may be sensitive or intolerant to one main ingredient, or to one or more of the colorings, preservatives, texturizers, palatability enhancers, or other substances in any of the 27 categories of allowable pet food additives. Food intolerances can occur at any age and involve any ingredient.

Corn, wheat and soy contain protein, which can produce allergies; but it’s more likely that pets are sensitive to these ingredients rather than truly allergic to them. One factor that could be contributing to this is that more than 80% of corn and 95% of soy grown in the US is genetically modified (GM). Such crops are likely to contain higher levels of pesticide residue.

Crops rejected for human consumption due to excessive residues can still be used in animal feed and pet food. The potential for reaction is obvious; but the ultimate and cumulative effects of GM products are as yet unknown.

• Probiotics: Help keep the gut bacteria nourished and balanced; they also appear to have anti-inflammatory properties.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (purified marine source): Are naturally anti-inflammatory, as well as important for skin healing. The intestinal epithelium may also benefit from Omega-3 supplementation.

Many pet foods, particularly mega-brands (including foods specifically promoted to veterinarians), store brands, and less expensive foods contain high protein grain extracts, such as wheat gluten, which is used to create shapes (such as “slices” or “chunks”) or as a thickener. Many dry foods include corn gluten meal, which contains 60% protein and is used as a substitute for more expensive animal protein. This is inappropriate for carnivorous pets, particularly cats, which do best on a high protein, high moisture, low carbohydrate diet.

Continued on next page.

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Alternative protein sources

Continued from previous page.

Treating sensitivities

1

by Suzi Beber

For food allergies, a full diet trial is warranted to determine the allergy-causing ingredient/s. The pet is exclusively fed one “novel ingredient” or hypoallergenic food for eight to 12 weeks.

The choice of ingredient or food depends on what the pet has been eating in the past. Note that cross-reactions may occur; e.g., pets allergic to chicken may also react to chicken eggs, as well as other poultry meats.

Animals with food sensitivities can profit from eating novel proteins such as buffalo, ostrich and even kangaroo.

These foods also offer an array of additional health benefits. Here’s a sampling of what’s available.

Buffalo is an excellent protein choice for animals with allergies or gastrointestinal problems. It is “heart healthy” because it is low in fat and cholesterol.

Buffalo is a good source of iron, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, potassium, riboflavin, niacin and vitamins B6 and B12. It also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), an antioxidant recognized as a cancer preventative.

Alternative proteins include venison, rabbit, duck, bison, emu, ostrich, kangaroo or beaver. Pets already eating a single-protein food may do fine on different proteins like fish, lamb or turkey, even if they are common in other foods. However, research has found cross-contamination of several “single-ingredient” OTC foods (both dry and canned) with common allergens. If your client is using an OTC food with no response, a purified or veterinary diet may be more successful. Some animals do better on the canned version of a particular food. They may be reacting to heat-denatured proteins in the dry food; canned foods are processed at lower temperatures.

Kangaroo is a terrific source of high quality protein. It is low in fat and a source of heart healthy Omega 3 fatty acids. It also contains CL. Kangaroo is rich in iron and zinc, and an important source of several B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, B6 and B12. Kangaroo is also great for animals with allergies and gastrointestinal problems.

Duck is an excellent source of high quality protein. It contains a variety of amino acids, and is a great source of iron, phosphorus, zinc, copper, selenium, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamins B6 and B12. Duck provides some Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and its choline and betaine contribute to the health of cell membranes, fat metabolism, and the nervous system.

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

Ostrich is an excellent source of protein, niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, zinc and selenium, as well as thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, iron and phosphorus.

It is recommended by a variety of health organizations, including the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Association.

When choosing the trial food, note that “poultry” may include chicken, turkey, duck, quail or other fowl. “Meat” is usually beef, but may legally include pork, lamb and goat. “Meat by-products” or “meat and bone meal” may contain any mammal species. It’s best to choose a food with specifically named single ingredients.

Shiitake mushrooms contain a natural source of interferon, a protein that appears to induce immune response against cancer and viral diseases. The eritadenine found in Shiitake mushrooms helps decrease fat and cholesterol in the blood, and their germanium supports cellular oxygenation and the immune response. Beta-glucan, a form of natural sugar with powerful immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties, is also found in Shiitake mushrooms.

Kombu is a meaty, high protein seaweed that supports liver, stomach and kidney function. It contains iodine, carotenes, vitamins B, C, D and E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, silica, iron and zinc, and it is higher in natural mineral salts than most other seaweeds.

Suzi Beber

has been creating special needs diets for cats

and dogs for many years.

Following the loss of her Blues, she founded The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund through the University of Guelph’s Pet Trust. Suzi is the only two-time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril Kennel Trophy for the Human/animal Bond. beloved golden retriever,

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Image provided by www.pachd.com .

Quinoa is a regarded as pseudo-grain, because technically it is not a member of the Poaceae botanical family, but is usually included alongside true cereal grains, because its nutritional profile, preparation and use are so similar.

Quinoa contains protein, calcium and iron, and also has an excellent amino acid profile.

Digestive signs often resolve quickly, but skin reactions tend to be far more persistent. If the skin does clear up, the pet can be challenged with one ingredient at a time to determine which ingredient/s caused the problem.

Many people have had great success using raw meat-based and homemade diets. A wide variety of meats are now available online as well as locally. It should be noted that many animals that are allergic to a particular protein in processed food do very well with the raw or very lightly cooked version of the same protein.

Clients must understand that a diet trial includes only the test food and water. Just one slip (such as giving a treat or supplement containing beef liver to a beef-allergic pet) could put the trial back to square one. Results may not be seen for up to eight weeks, so caution clients that total compliance, as well as patience, will be needed.

2

The treatment for food intolerance is much simpler. Changing the brand or flavor of food may be all that’s needed to resolve the problem, although it may take trying a few different brands or flavors to hit upon the right one. GI signs typically diminish or disappear within days once the offending ingredient is removed.

Clients should understand that these animals frequently respond favorably to a novel or limited ingredient diet, even when no allergy is present. To maximize success, choose good quality natural foods without artificial additives, or try a homemade diet or raw diet. Canned food may provide better results, as it typically contains fewer additives and preservatives.

Preventing problems Variety is a major key to preventing food allergies and intolerances.

Remember, food allergies develop when a pet eats the same ingredients over a long period of time. Pets that develop an allergy to one food are likely to eventually react to other foods, so protein sources should be changed at least every three months.

If the pet is eating dry food, make the switch gradually over a week or two, so colonic bacteria have time to adjust; too fast a change can cause diarrhea. Recommend high quality natural foods that don’t contain unspecified meat, liver or other protein sources, chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT or ethoxyquin, or other artificial additives. High quality natural foods tend to contain better quality ingredients that are less likely to cause an adverse reaction. Canned foods tend to cause fewer reactions than dry foods. For cats, once they are accustomed to variety, brands and flavors may be changed daily. Feeding a variety of foods also provides an added bonus: it prevents finicky behavior.

Lastly, remember that stress plays a big role in many health issues, especially those involving the digestive and immune systems.

Flower essences and herbs can be valuable aids here. Remind clients that pets need “quality time” every day. Exercise is nature’s greatest stress-reducer, so encourage clients to get out there and walk the dog, or enjoy daily interactive play sessions with the cat. Less stress also means fewer behavior problems, so it’s a win-win for all.

Jean Hofve, DVM, earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University. In addition to conventional veterinary training, she studied veterinary homeopathy, homotoxicology, Reiki, and other holistic modalities. She

Veterinarians talk about

raw diets

Veterinarians share a steadfast commitment to feeding the best possible diets to companion animals. One of the front-runner choices is raw food, but these diets are admittedly controversial. We believe they offer a health benefit, but at what risk?

With support from Bravo!, a raw diet pioneer and market leader, we went to the 2012 North American Veterinary Conference in January and asked several holistically-minded veterinarians to share their opinions. And we filmed what we heard. You can view the video by going to facebook.com/bravorawdiet, but here’s a “taste” of what these veterinarians had to say: “Many cases in my practice have been helped by switching from a grain-based diet to a non-grain diet.”

Dr. Tim Patterson Payson, Arizona “When I see chronic skin issues, cancer patients, even musculoskeletal pain, a lot of the root cause of these problems is inadequate nutrition. Most of my patients I put on a cooked or raw diet.”

Dr. Scott Sanderson Columbia, Maryland “The closer you get to a regular diet that matches what is in the wild, the better off you will be.”

Dr. Nancy Scanlon Mount Shasta, California “I want them to be fed something the animal’s body should be digesting, and for dogs and cats that’s more meat-based diets rather than grain.”

Dr. Janice Huntingford Ontario, Canada

Sponsored by:

has researched pet food and feline nutrition for nearly two decades, and is an expert on holistic pet health and the commercial pet food industry. She is an official advisor to AAFCO, the organization that sets pet food rules and standards in the U.S. and Canada. Dr. Hofve co-authored the book Holistic Cat Care.

www.BravoRawDiet.com integrative veterinary care

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97.8 0F

86.8

T

It’s been utilized in the equine industry for over 40 years. But the technology only recently gained the recognition it deserves, as the cameras have improved, standardization is introduced, and veterinarians become familiar with proper image interpretation.

by Joanna L. Robson, DVM

hermal imaging finds its niche in diagnosing mystery lamenesses, scanning horses at pre-purchase evaluations, aiding farriers with hoof pathology and imbalances, addressing common saddle-fitting problems, and providing both baselines and serial documentation of equine health and lameness. A case-based approach to the technology provides evidence of its vast uses and tremendous sensitivity in equine medicine, and numerous publications evaluate the technology in equine, bovine, and small animal fields.

Technological Advances As with most technologies, (from radiographs to ultrasounds and MRI) thermography cameras have greatly improved. Gone are the days when bulky cameras were wheeled around on carts, and the images were so grainy and poor that all detail was lost. Today’s thermal

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imagers are roughly the size of a hand-held radar gun or SLR camera. Many are able to record digital images alongside the thermal images, and some also record video for real-time imaging (excellent for teaching, or for research such as equine treadmill projects).

As the technology has significantly improved, the cost has also greatly decreased, meaning that thermal cameras are more affordable additions to today’s veterinary practices. That said, there are very important caveats to successful patient scanning and image interpretation.

Skill and Experience Crucial When evaluating individual patients and case studies, it is imperative to remember that the images are only as good as the technician’s skill in obtaining them, as well as the

standardization of patient and environmental preparation. Equally necessary for a positive outcome is the veterinarian’s experience in evaluating the images. Only when these conditions are met can the most successful interpretation be made.

The historical failure of thermal imaging in the equine industry was due to a lack of understanding of how and where to prepare and place the horse, and how to read the images once they were obtained. As interest in this technology grows, it will continue to come under fire as less skilled and untrained technicians and veterinarians attempt to add it to their businesses without a complete understanding of its proper implementation.

Thermal imaging is safe, cost effective for the client and practitioner, quick to perform, and reliable in experienced hands. These advantages will aid thermography’s broad acceptance, as skilled practitioners recognize these inherent benefits and seek to use the tool correctly.

Finally, hoof imbalances, bruises, abscesses, shoeing problems, laminitis, navicular syndrome, thin soles and more, will create thermal patterns indicative of disease.

Thermal Imaging is a Physiologic Modality Diagnostic imaging modalities may be divided into anatomic and physiologic. Thermal imaging is a physiologic imaging modality; therefore, it detects changes in blood flow and metabolism, but cannot necessarily tell you which exact anatomic structure is affected. The camera converts infrared waves into an image visible to the human eye. Another physiologic imaging modality is nuclear scintigraphy, which requires a hospital stay and injection of a radioactive isotope.

Anatomic imaging modalities, meanwhile, include traditional radiographs, ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These modalities pinpoint the structures affected with pathology, but only give a static image of disease processes.

Thermal imaging detects surface heat directly correlated to circulation, or a lack thereof. Therefore, anything that requires a tool to identify inflammation, reduced circulation, potential nerve damage, or serial patterning, could be evaluated with thermography.

Case Studies • Lady is a ten-year-old Thoroughbred mare. Thermal imaging was used as a general screening tool to help her owner decide if she should continue with more expensive diagnostics and treatments to address the horse’s lameness, or if retirement was a more appropriate choice. Lady had been used as a racehorse, then retired to work as a children’s lesson horse and low hunter. She always took a long time to warm up, had a history of a club foot and badly rotated limb, and was more recently treated for a suspected integrative veterinary care

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suspensory ligament injury. Her owner requested a scan to determine if there were other issues that would prevent the horse from returning to full soundness, or whether she would require ongoing care that the owner might not be able to provide. A full horse scan was provided, and numerous problems were noted on thermal images. ady’s images showed focal hotspots in her spine consistent L with spinal arthritis (perpendicular patterning suggestive of Over-riding Spinous Processes), or dorsal spinous ligament inflammation and paraspinal muscle inflammation, with possible saddle-fit issues. These areas would require further diagnostics to evaluate, but may explain her slow warm-up and crooked gait. Lady also showed decreased circulation in the right front foot (the club foot), bilateral tarsitis (inflammation in both hocks) and increased heat in both hind feet. These findings suggest that even after healing from her current injury, Lady will require ongoing maintenance to be performance sound. While the owner will ultimately have to decide what she wants to invest emotionally and financially in the patient, there is simply no other modality available that would so quickly and inexpensively provide this whole-horse information for the owner.

• Another patient was presented due to lethargy and toestabbing. In this case, thermal imaging demonstrated general muscle inflammation, a specific area of muscle trauma, and an area identified as a sole bruise. The attending veterinarian treated the horse before seeing the imaging report, and later confirmed all findings documented by thermal imaging in the horse’s interpretation. Subsequently, all horses in the barn have undergone baseline thermal imaging scans.

Top to bottom; Pectoral/chest shot; OSP in the topline; Sole bruise (left); Hot foot created by pressure from packing material under pads (right).

Monitoring Healing Another good use of thermal imaging is serial imaging of a lesion to monitor healing. While ultrasound is also useful

The above cases are real horses presented in daily practice. There are literally thousands of other case examples. The safe, quick, whole-horse imaging obtained with the thermography camera provides valuable information for both veterinarians and farriers, and can help clients with emotional and financial decisionmaking regarding the welfare and continued performance of their horses. These cases help demonstrate the extreme versatility of this imaging modality when used with proper training and interpreted by skilled practitioners. To learn more about equine thermal imaging, visit equineir.com or ieinfrared.com.

for soft-tissue evaluation, the cost and small examination area involved can limit its use. Thermal imaging can quickly monitor healing of both soft tissue and bony lesions through serial analysis of heat signature. While palpation may suggest a splint lesion is “cold” and the horse is ready to go back to work, thermal imaging can provide a more sensitive evaluation.

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Dr. Joanna Robson is the owner of Inspiritus Equine, Inc. (inspiritusequine.com), an integrative equine veterinary practice in Napa, California. She is a sought-after national and international lecturer and clinician on topics such as equine thermography, veterinary acupuncture and chiropractic, and saddle-fitting. She is co-founder of the HIPPOH Foundation. (HippohFoundation.org), which unites like-minded equine professionals for the health and welfare of the performance horse.

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Part 1

equine vaccinations Are you giving your patients too many vaccines? As more clients and veterinarians express concerns about the dangers of over-vaccination, it’s a good idea to review your own practice’s protocol.

H

by

orses receive vaccinations on a more frequent schedule than any other domesticated animal. Based on unfounded concerns for disease risk, not fact, this practice has horse people from all walks of life asking questions. To explain this controversial issue so you can make informed decisions for your patients, we turned to one of the foremost authorities on vaccination in the veterinary world – researcher, lecturer and veterinarian Dr. W. Jean Dodds. In this, the first of a two-part series, Dr. Dodds provides an overview of vaccination and raises some interesting points about this complex topic.

Vaccines are intended to protect against disease; so why are we causing disease by weakening the immune system with frequent use of combination vaccine products?

Vaccine manufacturers seek to achieve minimal virulence (infectivity) while attaining maximum protection. This desired balance may be relatively easy to achieve in clinically normal, healthy animals but what about those with compromised immune systems? Animals harboring latent viral infections may not be able to withstand the additional immunological challenge induced by vaccines. In addition, the stress associated with weaning, transportation, surgery, and subclinical illness can also compromise immune function. It’s no surprise, then, that reports of vaccine

reactions and vaccine-related diseases are on the rise throughout the animal world.

overview of the immune system When an animal is vaccinated, his immune system responds by producing two types of specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes. As the name suggests, lymphocytes are produced by the lymphatic organs (bone marrow, thymus, lymph nodes and spleen). You’ll find them throughout the body – in circulating blood and body fluids as well as in the tissues.

These lymphocytes, which are descendants of the bone marrow’s pool of “mother” stem cells, form a cooperative interaction between the circulating (humoral) immune system and the cellular (cell-mediated) immune system.

Think of them as a tag-team working together to provide short and long-term protection. The team is made up of two types of cells:

1

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W. Jean Dodds, DVM

B-Cell immunity (humoral) These antibodies provide an important defense mechanism against disease in healthy individuals but can become hyperactive or hypoactive in a variety of acute and chronic disease states, or in the rare genetically based immunodeficiency status.

2

T-Cell immunity (cellular) These lymphocytes act as coordinators and effectors of the immune system (the lymph nodes, thymus, spleen and intestine are also involved). Hyperactive cellular immune responses produce autoimmune and other immune-mediated diseases (e.g. autoimmune or immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, pemphigus, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosis) while hypoactive cell-mediated immunity causes immune suppression and incompetence. Classical examples of this latter situation occur with retroviral infection such as human AIDS or the animal equivalents (e.g. equine infectious anemia).

killed versus modified live vaccines

Over the years, researchers have developed two types of vaccines – modified live virus (MLV) and killed or inactivated virus vaccines.

Horses have traditionally been immunized with killed vaccines, although MLV equine vaccines have more recently become available. A long-standing question remains, however, about the comparative safety and efficacy of MLV versus killed virus vaccines, especially when a properly constituted killed vaccine is safer.

A published study of the risks posed by MLV vaccines concluded that they are intrinsically more hazardous than inactivated products. The residual virulence (infectivity) and environmental

contamination resulting from the shedding of vaccine virus is of concern not only for domestic animal populations but also for wildlife. So why would anyone use them?

The answer is simple: they appear to provide better and longer protection. Giving single (mononvalent) or combined (polyvalent) viral antigens of MLV type elicits a stronger antigenic challenge to the animal. This is often viewed as desirable because a more potent immunogen presumably mounts a more effective and sustained immune response. For instance, a recent equine study comparing killed and MLV equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV1) vaccines found the MLV vaccine offered superior protection when tested in an aerosol challenge.

But every rule has its exception. A recent study comparing killed, MLV, and live-chimera West Nile Virus (WNV) vaccines found 100% protection with all three types following challenge with virulent WNV. In this instance, they all provided adequate protection, so wouldn’t it make sense to use the safest vaccine available?

when is the safest time to vaccinate?

While we are aware of the general rule not to vaccinate animals during any period of illness, relatively little attention has been paid to the hormonal status of the patient. The same principle that applies for illness (don’t vaccinate when a horse is sick) should apply to times

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Vaccine titer testing So how do you know if your patients are protected from disease? By taking a blood sample, you can use serum vaccine titer testing to assess the immunologic status of the animal against the common, clinically important infectious diseases.

Research has shown that once an animal’s titer stabilizes, it is likely to remain constant for many years. “It is often said that the antibody level detected is only a snapshot in time,” states eminent expert Dr. Ronald Schultz, referring to the value of titer testing. “That’s simply not true; it is more a motion picture that plays for years”.

Furthermore, protection as indicated by a positive titer result is not likely to suddenly drop off unless an animal develops a medical problem such as cancer or receives high or prolonged doses of immunosuppressive drugs. So once you have an acceptable titer, you shouldn’t have to repeat the test – and more importantly, re-vaccinate – for years to come.

Available vaccine titers for horses • Equine herpes III (rhino)

• Potomac horse fever

• Equine encephalitis (EEE, WEE, VEE) • Equine viral arteritis

• Equine influenza

• Rabies titer (RFFIT: non export)

• West Nile virus antibody titer • Strangles • Lyme disease (canine vaccine has been used; not licensed for horses)

of physiological hormonal change. This is particularly important because the combination of hormonal change along with infectious agents can trigger an autoimmune disease.

Regardless of what you hear, vaccinating animals at the beginning, during or immediately after an estrous cycle is unwise, as is vaccinating animals during pregnancy or lactation. In horses, the WNV vaccine is stated to be safe for pregnant mares, although in 2005 the American Association of Equine Practitioners recommended vaccinating mares before breeding when possible.

Research in cattle shows the MLV herpes virus vaccine induces necrotic changes in the ovaries of heifers that were vaccinated during estrus. Even heifers that were not vaccinated but shared the same pasture were affected. In addition, vaccine strains of these viral agents are known to be causes of abortion and infertility. If one extrapolates these findings from cattle to other species, including horses, the implications are obvious.

adverse reactions When we refer to vaccine reactions, we’re talking about more than just immediate hypersensitivity reactions such as redness and inflammation. Clinical signs associated with reactions typically include fever, stiffness, sore joints and abdominal tenderness, susceptibility to infections, neurological disorders including seizures and encephalitis, collapse with autoagglutinated red blood cells and jaundice (autoimmune hemolytic anemia, AIHA), or generalized pin point or blotchy hemorrhages (immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, ITP) and lamintis. Liver and kidney laboratory values may be significantly elevated, and liver or kidney failure may occur by itself or accompany bone marrow suppression.

Regardless of species, acute events tend to occur 24 to 72 hours after vaccination, or seven to 45 days later in a delayed immunological response. Even more delayed adverse effects include death in infants from high-titered measles, joint diseases in dogs from canine distemper antibodies, and feline injection-site fibrosarcomas.

Though not as clearly documented, laminitis can occur soon after vaccination, but can also be delayed.

Viral disease and recent vaccination with single or combination vaccines are increasingly recognized contributors to immunemediated diseases of blood and other tissues, bone marrow failure, and organ dysfunction. We know that potent adjuvanted killed vaccines like those for rabies virus can trigger immediate and delayed (vaccinosis) adverse vaccine reactions. It’s likely that the genetic predisposition to these disorders in humans has parallel associations in domestic animals, including horses.

Health issues in horses attributed to adverse vaccine reactions

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have included fever and nasal discharge, temporary blindness, thrombocytopenia, muscle wasting or weakness, anasarca or purpura hemorrhagica, lymphangitis and laminitis.

over-vaccination Curiously, while concerns about over-vaccination have been raised for years in dogs and cats, little has been said about the fact that horses routinely receive more vaccines more frequently than other species. For example, many horses are vaccinated annually for rabies, even though this vaccine is known to confer a longer duration of immunity – at least three and likely more years! Perhaps this just reflects the lack of awareness that the vaccine issues pertaining to dogs and cats also apply in principle to other species such as horses.

Giving boosters annually or even more frequently as recommended for several equine diseases is likely to be of little benefit to a horse’s existing level of protection against these infectious diseases. It also increases the risk of adverse reactions from the repeated exposure to foreign substances. The accumulated evidence indicates that vaccination protocols should no longer be considered as a “one size fits all” program.

In the next issue, I’ll discuss some of the vaccines used routinely in horses, their benefits and potential side effects, and available information on results of titer testing for these vaccines.

Dodds, WJ. “More bumps on the vaccine road”. Adv Vet Med 41: 715-732, 1999.

Dodds WJ. “Vaccination protocols for dogs predisposed to vaccine reactions”.

J Am An Hosp Assoc 38: 1-4, 2001.

Dodds WJ. “Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine: the immune system”. Clin Tech Sm An Pract 17: 58-63, 2002.

Goodman LB, Wagner B., Flaminio MJ, et al. “Comparison of the efficacy of inactivated combination and modified-live virus vaccines against challenge infection with neuropathogenic equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1)”. Vaccine 24: 3636-3645, 2006.

Paul MA (chair), et al. “Report of the AAHA Canine Vaccine Task Force: 2006 canine vaccine guidelines, recommendations, and supporting literature”. AAHA, March 2006, 28 pp.

Schultz RD. “Current and future canine and feline vaccination programs”.

Vet Med 93: 233-254, 1998.

Schultz RD, Ford RB, Olsen J, Scott F. “Titer testing and vaccination: a new look at traditional practices”. Vet Med, 97: 1-13, 2002 (insert).

Seino KK, Long MT, Gibbs EP, et al. “Investigation into the comparative efficacy of three West Nile Virus vaccines in experimentally induced West Nile Virus clinical disease in horses”. AAEP Proceed 52: 233-234, 2006.

Tizard I. “Risks associated with use of live vaccines”. J Am Vet Med Assoc 196: 1851-1858, 1990.

Tizard I, Ni Y. “Use of serologic testing to assess immune status of companion animals”. J Am Vet Med Assoc 213: 54-60, 1998.

Twark L, Dodds WJ. “Clinical application of serum parvovirus and distemper virus antibody titers for determining revaccination strategies in healthy dogs”.

J Am Vet Med Assoc 217: 1021-1024, 2000.

Dr. Jean Dodds, DVM, received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she moved to Southern California to establish Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals.

Dr. Dodds has been a member of many national and international committees on hematology, animal models of human disease, veterinary medicine, and laboratory animal science. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994.

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industry innovations Rewarding responsibility Get them moving You see a lot of patients with joint problems, and you’re sure to see many more. NuviFlex Hip and Joint Formulas from Olympus Brands are a safe alternative to drugs without the long term side effects. Made from human grade cetyl myristoleate, glucosamine HCL, chondroitin sulfate and MSM, these products are manufactured in the US and tested by the US Pharmacopeia for purity, potency, identity and composition.

They’re also less expensive for your clients than Cetyl M (15% less) or Cosequin (33% less). olympusbrands.com

The AKC Humane Fund recently announced the John Spurling, O.B.E. Scholarship Celebrating the Human-Canine Bond. Five scholarships will be awarded annually to full-time students enrolled in courses of study that advance responsible animal ownership, including veterinary medicine and technology, physical therapy, animal behavior, grooming and training. akchumanefund.org

RAIVE approved

Fighting mange

Mange can be a stubborn and difficult disease to treat. Goodwinol Ointment has been a favorite among veterinarians and consumers for close to 70 years. It’s an effective and safe way of eradicating problem mange from canine skin. The ointment combines Rotenone with Benzocaine and Lanolin.

The Rotenone kills the mites, the Lanolin soothes raw skin and the Benzocaine provides some pain relief. Goodwinol is safe enough to be used on puppies and can be applied without gloves. goodwinol.com

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The PetMassage Training and Research Institute is now an Approved Continuing Education Provider through RAIVE, the Registry for Alternative and Integrative Veterinary Education.

The first PetMassage RAIVE-approved course is the PetMassage for Dogs Foundation Course, which earns 28 RAIVE CEs for veterinary technicians. The course helps you develop an understanding of the theory, techniques, vocabulary, culture and vision of PetMassage, the role it plays in the practice of veterinary medicine and rehabilitation, how to provide for diverse canine needs in the clinic, at sports events and in private practice, and much more. petmassage.com

Going silver It has been known for over a century that certain preparations of silver have germicidal properties. Prior to the invention of modern day antibiotics, silver was used to help treat wounds and other types of infections in animals. Unfortunately, over the past 25 years, multiple bacteria have developed resistance to common antibiotics. As a result, the equine industry is in urgent need of new technology with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity to reduce wound healing times and the risk of side effects from current treatments. Silverquine Technology consists of silver nanomolecules (less than .015 micrometers in size) with an interior of metallic silver and an exterior of ionic silver suspended within a water molecule. Products containing Silverquine Technology are being used topically in the equine arena to promote natural healing for summer sores, open wounds, cuts, lacerations, abrasions and burns. silverquine.com

Simple stress relief Veterinarian recommended Rescue Remedy Pet is a natural way to treat pet anxiety caused by travel, separation, new surroundings, loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks, and other behavioral issues associated with stress. It’s an alcohol free blend of the same five flower remedies found in the original Rescue Remedy stress relief formula that has been available for more than 70 years.

Conventional medicine often recommends a tranquilizer, but Rescue Remedy Pet can address many of the same issues naturally, without the side effects. It’s non-addictive and does not negatively interact with other medicines. rescueremedy.com/pets

Select supplements Soon to celebrate its 10th anniversary, Animal Essentials Inc. was born when two pioneer companies of the holistic pet care industry realized they shared a common vision. In 1994, Animal Apawthecary, founded by renowned herbalist/author Greg Tilford and herbalist Mary Wulff, began formulating natural pet supplements for Merritt Naturals, founded by Frank and Joan Holden.

Business took off for both companies, and in 2003, they merged into Animal Essentials. Veterinarians worldwide turn to Animal Essentials for supplements, and for the training they need to employ herbal remedies in their practices. animalessentials.com

The right saddle

When it comes to saddles, understanding biomechanics and anatomy is key to preventing long-term damage to riders.

“Male” saddles (wider twist – width between upper/inner thigh) cause issues for woman – the legs hang forward, the knees and toes are at a 45° angle, legs are turned out and forward, and the rider has difficulty achieving “shoulderhips-heels” alignment. This results in hip pain, knee pain, and feeling “pulled apart” through the pelvis. “Female” saddles (narrower twist) allow more upper leg to rest on the barrel of the horse, so women can ride comfortably, in position, while protecting their back and hips. saddlesforwomen.com or schleese.com integrative veterinary care

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Introducing the

NEW

IVC Journal & Animal Wellness Magazine

APPS!

Much ado

about

Mulch

by Ann Brightman

Advise your clients not to use cocoa mulch – it can be toxic to dogs

Y

ou know chocolate is toxic to dogs, but did you know cocoa mulch is too? It’s made from the shells of cocoa beans, and is a by-product of chocolate production. While cocoa mulch doesn’t contain as much theobromine as unprocessed cocoa beans – 0.19% to 2.98% versus 1% to 4%, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center – if enough mulch is ingested, it can have serious repercussions.

The Animal Poison Control Center conducted a study of dogs that accidentally ingested cocoa mulch. Vomiting was reported in 50% of cases, tremors occured in 33% and 15% of the dogs developed tachycardia. No clinical signs were seen in a third of the dogs, likely because they ate only small quantities of the mulch.

Only

$1.99

includes 1 free issue

www.ivcjournal.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com 46

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The Merck Veterinary Manual states that the median lethal dose of theobromine is 100 mg to 200 mg per kilogram of a dog’s body weight, but adds that serious symptoms and death can occur at much lower doses, and that individual dogs have varying sensitivities to the chemical. “In general,” the manual continues, “mild signs (vomiting, diarrhea, polydipsia) may be seen in dogs ingesting 20 mg/kg, cardiotoxic effects may be seen at 40 to 50 mg/kg, and seizures may occur at doses larger than 60 mg/kg.”

Even if none of your patients are indiscriminate eaters, it’s best to err on the side of caution and advise clients to avoid cocoa mulch and choose an alternative.

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AHVMA Conference Highlights Standard Process

Kemin

Since our founding in 1961, Kemin has used science and research to enhance nutrition and health for humans and animals worldwide. Today, we are proud to offer high quality companion animal health supplements marketed exclusively to veterinarians under the RESOURCES™ brand. Developed in conjunction with Ihor Basko, DVM, a recognized leader in integrative and complementary medicine for animals, each product has been individually formulated, combining innovative ingredients and superior science with traditional herbs and antioxidants. Learn more at our breakfast meeting on Sunday, September 9.

1-877-738-7454 kemin.com/RESOURCES

For more than 80 years, Standard Process® has offered supplements made from whole food ingredients, some of which are grown on the company’s certified organic farm. Veterinary Formulas™ designed specifically for canine, feline, and equine clients; the core Standard Process line; and MediHerb® herbal supplements all fulfill the individualized nutritional needs of animals ranging from treasured companions to elite athletes.

Standard Process supplements are manufactured to the highest quality standards at the company’s state-of-the-art US headquarters, where proprietary low-temperature processes are used to ensure nutritional integrity. Veterinary Formulas are available only through qualified veterinary professionals. standardprocess.com

Booth 316

Booth 220 Companion Therapy Laser

Life gets better when you have the right companion by your side.

Learn how Companion can help you turn hurting into healing with a laser from our family of American-made systems. Companion lasers reduce pain and inflammation, shorten healing time, and increase microcirculation. Companion Lasers provide you with selection, unparalleled training, and on-going marketing and clinical support. Ask about Companion’s revolutionary SmartCoat® Plus technology that custom tailors a recommended dosage based on your patient’s breed, condition, body type, hair color, skin color, and coat length. Companion is the veterinary division of LiteCure, LLC, a leading U.S. medical device manufacturer.

1-877-627-3858 info@CompanionTherapy.com CompanionTherapy.com

Booth 508 48

integrative veterinary care

Sojo’s

Since 1985, Sojos has been mixing up fresh batches of allnatural dog food, providing an easy solution to dog owners who want to feed a raw diet. Either add your own fresh meat to our Sojos Original or Grain-Free Pre-Mix, or simply add water to Sojos Complete, which has freeze-dried raw beef or turkey already in the bag. It’s convenient, inexpensive, and provides your four-legged friend with healthy pet food. Now also available in Sojos Complete Turkey for Cats.

612-343-7262 or 1-888-867-6567 mail@sojos.com sojos.com

Booth 520

Birmingham, Alabama September 8 - 11, 2012

Bravo!

Stop by the Bravo! booth to see the new line of treats “just for cats”. Healthy Bites and Healthy Medleys offer cats what they need and crave, and are perfectly sized. Healthy Bites are made from 100% muscle meat, while Medleys are made from 100% muscle meat plus hearts, livers and gizzards. Freezedrying enhances flavor, locks in freshness and assures easy feeding, while the formulas guarantee cats are getting the fat content, vitamins and minerals they need. Made in the US from antibiotic and hormone free poultry and fish, and contain no additives or preservatives. Available in six protein types.

1-866-922-9222 info@bravorawdiet.com bravorawdiet.com

Equine Light Therapy & Canine Light Therapy

For years, Equine Light Therapy™ and Canine Light Therapy have been helping animals stay stronger for competition, and heal faster if injured by putting the power of healing in a simple, easy to use tool for everyday treatment. LED light therapy is really a way to help the body heal itself. The energy (photons) from the light increases the energy within the cells and speeds up the healing process. Come by our booth and see how we can help your clients stay strong and heal faster.

615-293-3025 CanineLightTherapy.com EquineLightTherapy.com

Booth 421 Pet King Brands

ZYMOX® Enzymatic Dermatology Products provide antibiotic alternatives with broad spectrum effectiveness.

Our line of topicals utilizes the patented LP3 Enzyme System with demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal and anti-yeast properties for the management of infections and irritations as well as allergic symptoms. We are now featuring the Advanced Formula ZYMOX® Otic with biofilm dissolving enzymes for resistant microbes such as pseudomonas. pkbanimalhealth.com

Booth 304

Booth 620 Herbsmith Rx

We are your one-stop shop for quality holistic veterinary supplies with a wide variety of Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas, single herbs, acupuncture needles, holistic clinic supplies, and TCVM educational literature. Select herbal formulas are available as powders, tablets, teapills, capsules, flax plus blends for horses, and new herbal bites of freeze dried meats for dogs and cats. Our herbs undergo two to three tiers of testing before being released from our plant. Backed by 25 years of veterinary experience, we have everything you need to easily integrate holistic solutions into your practice. Call to learn about prescription fulfillment and commission opportunities to minimize inventory.

1-800-624-6429 mail@herbsmithrx.com herbsmithrx.com

Booth 400 integrative veterinary care

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Veterinary Resource Guide

ASSISTIVE DEVICES

HandicappedPet.com Amherst, NH USA Phone: (603) 577-8858 Website: www.handicappedpets.com

ASSOCIATIONS

Alliance of Veterinarians DEVICES for the Environment ASSISTIVE -HandicappedPet.com AVE Nashville,NH TN USA USA Amherst, (615) 577-8858 353-0272 Phone: (603) www.aveweb.org Website: www.handicappedpets.com American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture - AAVA Glastonbury, CT USA for the Environment Alliance of Veterinarians Phone: (860) 632-9911 -Email: AVE aava@cttel.net Nashville, TN USA Website: www.aava.org Phone: (615) 353-0272 Website: Americanwww.aveweb.org Veterinary Chiropractic Association -American AVCA Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture Bluejacket, - AAVA OK USA Phone: (918)CT 784-2231 Glastonbury, USA Email: Phone: avcainfo@junct.com (860) 632-9911 Website: www.animalchiropractic.org Email: aava@cttel.net Website: Americanwww.aava.org Veterinary Medical Association -American AVMA Veterinary Chiropractic Association Schaumburg, IL USA - AVCA Phone: (800) 248-2862 Bluejacket, OK USA Website: www.avma.org Phone: (918) 784-2231 Email: avcainfo@junct.com Association of American Veterinary Medical Website: Colleges -www.animalchiropractic.org AAVMC Washington, DC USA Medical Association American Veterinary Phone: - AVMA(202) 371-9195 Website: www.aavmc.org Schaumburg, IL USA

Phone: (800)of248-2862 Association Veterinary Acupunturists of Website:- www.avma.org Canada AVAC

Beaconsfi eld,ofQC Canada Veterinary Medical Association American Phone: 697-0295 Colleges(514) - AAVMC Email: office@avac.ca Washington, DC USA Website: www.avac.ca Phone: (202) 371-9195 Website: www.aavmc.org International Association of Veterinary Homeopathyof- Veterinary IAVH Association Acupunturists of Germany Canada - AVAC Phone: +49 (644) 036-3820 Beaconsfi eld,76QC Canada Email: ce@iavh.org Phone: offi (514) 697-0295 Website: Email: offiwww.iavh.org ce@avac.ca

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National Animal Supplement Council - NASC Valley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.nasc.cc Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association - VBMA Acworth, GA USA Email: offi ce@vbma.org National Animal Supplement Council - NASC Website: www.vbma.org Valley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website:EQUINE www.nasc.cc NATUROPATH

Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association Cassie Schuster, ND, MH - VBMA Waller, TX USA Acworth, GA USA Phone: (713) 502-0765 Email: office@vbma.org Email: cassie.schuster@yahoo.com Website: www.vbma.org Website: www.wellranch.com

EQUINE NATUROPATH NATURAL PRODUCT

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS

Cassie Schuster, ND, MH Waller, GenesisTX USA Phone: (713) 502-0765 Valley Center, CA USA Email: Phone: cassie.schuster@yahoo.com (760) 751-3360 Website: www.wellranch.com www.genesispets.com

NATURAL PRODUCT

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS Peaceable Kingdom

Need to create from ad Genesis Valley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.genesispets.com

NATURAL Peaceable PRODUCT Kingdom RETAILERS Need to create from ad Animal Necessity New York, NY USA Phone: (800) 721-1310 Email: sales@animal-necessity.com Website: www.animalnecessity.com

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Lebalab Inc. RETAILERS Sarnia, ON Canada Phone: (519) 542-4236 Animal Necessity Email: tellus@lebalab.com New York, NY USA Website: www.lebalab.com Phone: (800) 721-1310

Email: sales@animal-necessity.com Nelsons www.animalnecessity.com Website: Website: www.avac.ca International Veterinary Acupuncture Society North Andover, MA USA Toll Free:Inc. (978) (978) 988-0233 988-0233 Lebalab -International IVAS Association of Veterinary Phone: (978)Canada 988-3833 Sarnia, ON Fort Collins, CO USA Homeopathy - IAVH Email: info@nelsons.net Phone: (519) 542-4236 Phone: Germany(970) 266-0666 Website: www.nelsons.net Email: tellus@lebalab.com Email: Phone: offi +49ce@ivas.org 76 (644) 036-3820 Website: www.lebalab.com Website: www.ivas.org Email: office@iavh.org PetzLife Products Inc. Website: www.iavh.org Spring NelsonsPark, MN USA Phone:Andover, (952) 460-1290 Not all supplements are alike...

MA USA International Veterinary Acupuncture Society North Email: info@petzlife.com Toll Free: (978) 988-0233 -Companies IVAS displaying the NASC Seal of Website: www.petzlife.com NASC Phone: (978) 988-3833 QualityCollins, are independently audited and Fort CO USA Email: info@nelsons.net their Quality System Requirements Phone: (970) 266-0666 Website: www.nelsons.net Email: offibeen ce@ivas.org (QSR) have verefied.

Website: www.ivas.org Products Inc. For more information visit www.NASC.cc PetzLife Spring Park, MN USA Phone: (952) 460-1290 integrative veterinary care Email: info@petzlife.com Website: www.petzlife.com

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies - CIVT Rozelle, NSW Australia Phone: (303) 800-5460 Website: www.civtedu.org

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc

Offering Small, Therapies College of Integrative Veterinary Integrated Touch Hands-On Intensive - CIVT Classes in Animal Rozelle, NSW Australia Massage and Bodywork Phone: (303) 800-5460 1-800-251-0007 wshaw1@bright.net Website: www.civtedu.org www.integratedtouchtherapy.com PetMassage Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Integrated Touch Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com

SUPPLEMENTS PetMassage Ltd. MVP Laboratories Toledo, Omaha, OH NE USA Phone: (419) (402) 475-3539 331-5106 Email: info@petmassage.com mvplabs@mvplabs.com Website: www.petmassage.com www.mvplabs.com The Honest Kitchen SUPPLEMENTS San Diego, CA USA Phone: (858) 483-5995 MVP Laboratories Email: Omaha,info@thehonestkitchen.com NE USA Website: www.thehonestkitchen.com Phone: (402) 331-5106

Email: mvplabs@mvplabs.com THERMAL IMAGING Website: www.mvplabs.com The Honest Kitchen San Diego, CA USA Phone: (858) 483-5995 Email: info@thehonestkitchen.com Equine IR Website: www.thehonestkitchen.com

THERMAL IMAGING ThermoScanIR Toronto, ON Canada Equine IR Phone: (416) 258-5888 Email: info@ThermoScanIR.com Website: www.ThermoScanIR.com

ThermoScanIR Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 258-5888 All types of different modalities Email: info@ThermoScanIR.com Website: www.ThermoScanIR.com

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Facin Ri ht the

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way

Saddle tree points – direction, angle and width – critically impact equine scapular health. Let’s look at the importance of direction.

by Jochen Schleese, CSFT, CMS CEE

W

ith complex physiological issues, veterinarians may recommend treatments to alleviate symptoms. The horse benefits greatly when the health care team works together, combining knowledge to understand underlying factors. This series discusses concepts to assist professionals in the diagnostic process.

Tree points are either forward facing, straight (perpendicular to the ground) or rear facing.

• Forward facing tree points cause proven detrimental effects to shoulder health. MRIs and fiber optic cameras have shown the cartilage chipping that can occur as scapulae rotate upwardsbackwards. Every time the foreleg is extended (during trot, gallop, simultaneously when jumping), tree points will hit the scapulae, potentially causing damage at the skeletal level. In

some countries, the manufacture of saddles with traditional forward facing trees has been banned.

• Straight tree points are marginally better, but still contact at the scapula, especially during extended movement of the leg or during jumping.

• Rear facing tree points, which mimic the scapular angle allowing maximum freedom of shoulder movement – upwards and backwards – provide optimal scapular clearance and health.

My point? Check the direction of the saddle tree points! Ensure the horse’s scapulae have room to move without hitting tree points with every step.

Check point Demonstrate by lifting the foreleg and doing a “pedalling” motion with it to see how far the scapula rotates (usually 4” to 8”), marking the shoulder positions with chalk. If during movement, the horse’s scapulae hit an immobile, hardedged object (the tree point), the uncomfortable results are irritation, restricted movement, pain and eventual cartilage damage. It’s similar to a person walking and banging her knees against a wooden board with every step – not painful at first, but the cumulative effect is knee damage.

2 3

1

2 1

3

Jochen Schleese is a Certified Master Saddler who graduated from Passier, and came to Canada as Official Saddler at the 1986 World Dressage Championships.

He registered the trade of saddlery in North America in 1990. Jochen’s lifelong study of equine development, saddle design, the bio-mechanics of horse and rider in motion, and the effects of ill-fitting saddles, led to the establishment of Saddlefit 4 Life in 2005 (saddlefit4life.com), a global network of equine professionals dedicated to protecting horse and rider from long term damage.

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tech talk

Healing hues

by Cindy Kneebone, DVM

An introduction to veterinary color therapy, and how you can use it with your patients and in the clinic setting.

C

olor therapy has strong scientific evidence as a healing application for humans. In Europe, colour therapy units for medical use run up to $25,000 USD. These units use pure crystals to project true colour frequencies onto the body or into the eyes. Less expensive units use LED lights or coloured plastic glasses that can be worn by an individual.

Change the blanket or cover the couch and you may notice the animal avoiding it, even if it’s very similar in softness and texture to the old surface. I purchased a nice big red blanket for my own dog to lie on, but he hated it, never lay on it, and tore it up to get it off of his bed. I’ll provide additional details on determining which colors to use with patients, and how to use them, later in this article.

Color and cones

A number of tests have been developed to determine what colors people need. One is called the Phosphene Test. If you stare at a large single-colored dot on a white background for about 30 seconds, take that color away and stare at a plain piece of white paper, a colored dot should appear on the paper. It should be the complementary color to the one you were staring at. If you do not see a dot forming on the paper within five seconds, you need the first color for a treatment. As an example, stare at 1” red dot on white paper for about 30 seconds, then immediately remove the colored paper and stare at a white sheet of paper. Within a few seconds, you should see a faintly colored blue dot appear. If you don’t, wear something red that day.

Dukes’ Physiology of Domestic Animals notes that dogs have two color cones. Humans have three: red, green and blue. However, it’s estimated cats have up to four color cones, so imagine what the world must look like to a feline. You need at least two colored cones to see color frequencies. It is speculated by a number of different researchers that dogs see in the blue/green color spectrum. However, not being able to see a color does not mean we are not affected by it. We can’t see ultraviolet light but we are tanned or burned by its effects on our skin. We can’t see infrared, but we feel its detoxifying effects from an infrared sauna. The same rule applies to animals.

Color therapy has veterinary applications as well, although many of the visual and verbal tests used in humans, such as the one cited above, won’t apply to animals. We need to use other ways to choose color for our patients. Sometimes the animal will tell us by choosing to lie on a certain blanket or couch.

Color has a vibration, a wavelength, a frequency. It can penetrate our bodies the same way frequencies from a cell phone tower or microwave can. Different colors have different wavelengths – for example, violet has a shorter wavelength than red. Some colors penetrate deeply into our bodies and others less so. This is why

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integrative veterinary care

Good vibes

ocular color therapy is popular. Shining a color into the visual field allows the frequency to penetrate deeply into the limbic system to affect the brain.

The German scientist Fritz Albert Popp determined that all cells in the body communicate by emitting photons of light. Chemical communication also occurs but is too slow to account for all the physiological processes that occur in the body simultaneously.

Cells communicate and inform by using light. Only cancer cells do not emit light.

Color for the clinic It’s no accident that a certain grocery chain uses yellow paint on the walls. It is supposed to stimulate impulse purchasing. Why are surgeon’s drapes and gowns always green? It is a complement to the color of blood and helps calm surgeons so they don’t panic in the face of hemorrhage. If you work on a computer in the evening and find it difficult to sleep after staring at the monitor, buy a piece of blue or green plastic to cover

Not being able to see a color does not mean we are not affected by it.

Practical applications hen using color therapy with animals, it is practical and W economical to use colored gels found in art or camera supply stores. These can be placed in front of a light bulb to project colors. ther ways to use color are to purchase colored silk or O cotton to be worn as bandanas, or colored ceramic bowls for food and water. For instance, if a cat is constipated, using orange-colored feeding and water bowls may cause

the monitor. It can help reduce eyestrain.

Color schemes in the veterinary clinic can also have a beneficial effect on patients, clients and staff. Soft blues and greens can have a calming or harmonizing effect, for example, while orange can stimulate creativity and productivity. Red may increase physical vitality and stamina but should be used sparingly because it can also generate agitation and anger. Yellow can have a fun, uplifting influence. Color can easily be introduced through accents such as chairs and picture frames in waiting or examination rooms, or at the reception area.

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Practical uses of color based on the chakra system Color

Chakra

Organs

Endocrine gland

Violet or purple

Crown

Brain

Pineal

Calming, helps an animal sleep

Indigo

Brow, third eye

Eyes, lower head, sinuses

Pituitary

Eye and sinus problems and any endocrine disorder in which the pituitary is involved, such as pituitary-dependent Cushing’s or hyperthyroidism in cats

Blue

Throat

Throat and lung

Thyroid

Thyroid dysfunction, bronchitis, upper esophageal disorders and asthma

Green

Heart

Heart and upper mammary glands

Thymus

To support a heart patient or stimulate the immune system

Yellow

Solar plexus

Liver, spleen, stomach and small intestine

Pancreas

Can aid liver disease, pancreatitis, diabetes and gall stones

Orange

Sacral

Uterus, large bowel, prostate and fetuses

Ovary and testes

May help with reproductive issues

Red

Root

Kidneys and bladder

Adrenal

Can be used to help with constipation, problems of urination and hypertension

him to develop diarrhea. This is because the color orange is associated with the second chakra, which governs the large intestine. For diarrhea issues, using the complement color to orange – blue – could help control loose stools.

A ttach a colored gel to the outside of goggles designed to be worn by animals. You can treat them with color for 20 minutes or longer if they tolerate the glasses.

C over a patient’s cage door with a colored gauze or towel.

What different hues can do lue stimulates the anterior hypothalamus which regulates the B parasympathetic nervous system. All colors in the bluish spectrum from blue and green to violet, have a sedating effect, stimulating digestion and inducing sleep.

Uses

Red

stimulates the posterior hypothalamus which regulates the sympathetic nervous system. All the colors in this part of the spectrum – magenta, red, orange, yellow, etc. – have a stimulating effect. Red invokes anger and stops digestion.

See the table above, for more information on the uses of color therapy, based on the chakra system.

Dr. Cindy Kneebone received her DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1981. She received diplomas in Homeopathy from the British Institute of Homeopathy, in C hinese H erbal M edicine from H uang D i C ollege of T raditional C hinese M edicine , and in V eterinary Acupuncture at the Michener Institute. She is certified with the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. In 1998, Dr. Kneebone joined the East York Animal Clinic in Toronto.

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integrative practice

Finding a

CAVM Specialist

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integrative veterinary care

“D

o you offer acupuncture?” “Could chiropractic treatments help my dog?” More veterinarians are hearing questions like this, thanks to the growing number of clients who want to explore alternative options for their pets. So it makes good sense to think about adding some of these therapies to your own practice.

But how do you go about finding Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine professionals? What should you look for when deciding who to work with? For this article, we drew on the expertise of three integrative veterinarians who work with CAVM specialists – Dr. Richard Palmquist, DVM, Dr. Pedro Luis Rivera, DVM, FACFN, and Dr. Mark D. Newkirk, VMD. What

qualities do you look for in a CAVM specialist?

RP

Ideally, we are looking for a balance between four things:

1

Competency – do they know their materials? In areas like acupuncture, herbs, chiropractic and classical homeopathy, veterinary certification groups train and certify professionals. If the veterinarian is certified, that indicates at least basic competency. Many doctors are well trained but have not sought out formal certification. In some cases there are no recognized certifications, so we need to consider other issues when evaluating a practice’s potential usefulness.

2

Communication skills – integrative and CAVM veterinary professionals are intimately involved with interpersonal relationships, and are generally ethical and truth-centered in their associations. These qualities are essential when working in patient-centered approaches. Finding and conveying information in a way the consumer can understand and use is critical. A lion’s share of the work in integrative medicine involves communication, so if you can’t communicate effectively with a professional, that person may not be the right one.

3

Reputation – when a professional is successful in treating large numbers of cases for long periods, they probably have competency and communication skills. What’s more, they usually know how to interact with many circumstances and have proven the test of time. The community usually knows these people and values their presence.

Continued on next page. integrative veterinary care

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Many integrative doctors have blogs or websites. Visit them, read their materials and see whether they are compatible with your expectations and desires.

– Rick Palmquist, DVM

AHVMA. Realize that such lists are not endorsements, and only list the information provided by the member hospital.

• To find out about a clinic’s reputation, simply ask around town.

•G o to groomers, holistic health food or animal supply stores, and ask where people go for holistic care.

Continued from previous page.

4

Compatibility – integrative veterinary care is an intimate relationship between animal, steward and professional. All three parts of the relationship must work together, and not everyone gets along with differing personality traits. Call or visit the specialist’s office and see directly how people interact and how they treat others. Competent people know that individuals are important and they strive to find other’s needs and fulfil them.

They are liked and successful, and are usually happy, too.

PLR

Education, certification, number of years’ experience, and a valid professional license is what I look for in a CAVM practitioner. In any service we seek out, it is our responsibility to be sure the people we are entrusting our patients to have the proper education in the modality we are looking for. It is up to us to ask: “Where did you get your training, and most importantly, did you successfully complete it?”

Many unethical practitioners are advertising that they went to a reputable program, and in actuality did attend one module or class, but never completed the program. We need to be aware of the various programs out there, and the state laws referring to who can actually perform the modality, and be sure the practitioner we are interested in is within those parameters. A weekend seminar does not make anyone qualified or competent to work with our patients.

MDN

Look for many of the same qualities that you’d look for in any veterinarian – table side manner, communication skills, reputation, knowledge level, expertise of office staff. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

How

RP 58

do you find these professionals?

You can find holistic veterinarians in your area by checking membership lists from groups like the

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• Seek people at dog parks, specialty breed clubs, and animal adoptions.

• I nternet sites may be useful but realize they can be easily influenced both positively and negatively. Take what you read on the Internet with a grain of salt and do more investigation than simply looking the clinic up on your favorite rating site. Some sites allow businesses to buy memberships and change their site postings, while others don’t solicit business payments. Know the site before you take the information there too seriously.

•M any integrative doctors have blogs or websites. Visit them, read their materials and see whether they are compatible with your expectations and desires.

PLR

There are many wonderful and reputable organizations available to help us find the right professional for our treatment choices. Many veterinarians, although they may not practice CAVM, are fully aware of those in the community who do. If this is not an option, most people rely on “word of mouth”. This is a good first step, but we must then go to the next step:

1 Where did the person get his/her training?

2 Did s/he successfully complete it?

3 Does s/he have the proper licensure/certification required in your state?

4 How long have s/he been practicing their chosen modality?

Continued on page 60.

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Continued from page 58.

A number of organizations can help assure the competency of licensed practitioners in various CAVM modalities. This is just a partial list: • American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) • College of Animal Chiropractors (CoAC) • International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS)

MDN

MDN

We charge a basic exam fee, based on time. For the first visit, patients usually require two to three times as long as regular patients, thus our holistic exam fee is at least twice our regular fee. Then we add services. So chiropractic treatment would be an extra charge, same as an x-ray would. Each service is then charged separately – acupuncture, NAET, etc. Remedies, herbs, etc. are billed separately as well. Typically, several items are going home with the patient, versus 25 antibiotic pills or 30 prednisone tablets.

The owner must understand that for someone to become a competent CAVM practitioner, it entails years of training and national certification testing, not to mention the Continuing Education courses that must be attended to stay up to date with the most current scientific and clinical information.

Dr. Richard Palmquist, DVM, graduated from Colorado State University in 1983. He is chief of integrative health services at Centinela Animal Hospital in Inglewood, California, past president and research chair of the AHVMA, and an international speaker in integrative veterinary medicine. Dr. Palmquist is a consultant for the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) and co-director of the AHVMA Foundation. He has published two books,

• American Association of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA) • Veterinary Botanical Medical Association (VBMA) • American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA) • International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA) • American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians (AARV) You can find these specialists the same way you’d find other veterinarians. Use the AHVMA website, word of mouth, Yellow Pages and the Internet.

– Pedro Luis Rivera, DVM

H ow do you price these services?

RP

Holistic and integrative services are like any other form of business, and careful consideration is required in pricing each. It is critical that a veterinarian consider the time and space needed for these services, and incorporate these issues into pricing. I suggest getting together with a competent practice manager with experience in such care, and allow him to do his job. Re-evaluate your progress at regular intervals and adjust fees as needed.

As you begin, you may want to price these services at a lower rate until you gain confidence and see positive outcomes.

Then you can raise prices to reflect the appropriate exchange rate the service is worth.

PLR

Unfortunately, as in most businesses, there are no set prices in veterinary medicine and everyone has to charge what they think their services are worth. It is ultimately up to clients to decide what they can afford to spend on their animals. The owner must understand that

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for someone to become a competent CAVM practitioner, it entails years of training and national certification testing, not to mention the Continuing Education courses that must be attended to stay up to date with the most current scientific and clinical information. These are some of the factors that go into pricing.

integrative veterinary care

one for conventional veterinarians and a second for clients discussing how integrative thinking works.

Dr. Pedro Luis Rivera, DVM, FACFN, received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Purdue University, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1986 and is a Fellow of the American College of Functional Neurology. He is certified with the College of Animal Chiropractors and the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. He is still active with the Chiropractic Neurology Program and Masters Degree program at the Carrick Institute. Dr. Rivera is co-owner of The Healing Oasis Veterinary Hospital as well as co-founder and primary instructor at The Healing Oasis Wellness Center, a nationally accredited educational institution (ACCET) under the US Dept. of Education, offering state approved programs through the Wisconsin Educational Approval Board (WEAB).

Dr. Mark Newkirk, VMD, is the owner of Newkirk Family Veterinarians and has been taking care of pets in Southern New Jersey since 1981. Graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Newkirk has a special interest in alternative medicine. His practice offers chiropractic, homeopathy, herbal therapies, aqua-puncture and alternative cancer treatments, as well as therapeutic lasers, alternative allergy therapy (NAET) and homotoxicology. He has a new Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy Center, and the ability to do onsite stem cell transplants. Dr. Newkirk has his own radio show (Thursdays 9AM to 10 AM on WOND 1400 AM).

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events 6th Keystone Veterinary Conference

New England Regional Veterinary Conference

August 16-19, 2012 – Hershey, PA Offering 26 hours of approved Continuing Education. Social Events including Exhibitor Appreciation Reception, Penn Vet Alumni Reception and more.

September 28-30, 2012 – Portland, ME The meeting last year was the one of the best attended yet, with over 400 veterinarians, and 175 technicians and practice managers. The Casco Bay Exhibit Hall is ideally suited for exhibitors, all of whom appreciate the high level of energy and enthusiasm among attendees and exhibitors alike.

For more information: (888) 550-7862 cbritton@pavma.org www.keystonevetconference.org

CVC Kansas City 2012 August 22-27, 2012 – Kansas City, MO For more than 20 years, CVC’s vision has been to provide veterinarians, veterinary technicians, practice managers, and team members the best convention experience possible by offering premium educational programming, expert clinical education, hands-on labs and workshops, practice management programs, and team training sessions.

With expert speakers and exceptional service that is affordable and accessible and offered at 3 convenient locations annually.

For more information: (800) 255-6864 ext. 6 cvc@advanstar.com www.thecvc.com

2012 AHVMA Annual Conference September 8-11, 2012 – Birmingham, AL This year’s American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Conference includes 105 RAIVE-eligible for CEU hours for veterinarians, breakfast sessions and 12 hours for vet techs. Veterinary students, first year grads and newcomers welcome!

Long-time AHVMA members will be available to discuss various CAVM modalities and how to incorporate them into practices.

For more information: 410-569-0795 office@ahvma.org www.meetings.ahvma.org

With Educational Programs and Events such as Small Animal Nutrition, Equine Lameness and many more lectures and labs, this year should be even better than last.

For more information: (207) 752-1392 info@mainevetmed.org www.mainevetmed.org

Washington State VMA Annual Conference September 28-30, 2012 – Yakima, WA Conference registration is required to attend or participate in the WSVMA Annual Conference. Advance registration is strongly recommended. You’ll avoid on-site registration lines, realize savings on fees, improve your chances of admission into ticketed events and help WSVMA contain costs and serve you better.

Registration includes a name badge that allows you access to all educational sessions and the exhibit hall, one copy of the conference program and a password to access online printable proceedings. All meals and refreshment breaks are included when you purchase a Weekend Meal Pass.

For more information: (425) 396-3191 info@wsvma.org www.wsvma.org

Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Annual Conference October 4-7, 2012 – Loveland, CO This October, CVMA will once again hold their annual convention in Loveland. This convenient location allows easy access to many members. It also facilitates unique collaborations with Colorado State University, offering a new wet lab and to learn about asyet unpublished data from the researchers themselves. Includes over 125 hours of quality education content, Membership Luncheon & Awards Celebration and much more.

For more information: (303) 593-7274 info@colovma.org www.colovma.org

39th Kentucky VMA Veterinary Conference October 5-7, 2012 – Louisville, KY The Kentucky Veterinary Association wants to extend you an invitation to the 101st Annual KVMA Meeting & 39th MidAmerica Veterinary Conference.

For more information: (800) 552-5862 KVMA@aol.com www.kvma.org

Veterinary Hospital Managers Associations Annual Meeting October 18-21, 2012 – Vancouver, BC VHMA’s 2012 Annual Meeting and Conference will provide unparalleled educational and networking opportunities for veterinary practice managers interested in transforming the efficiency, profitability and marketability of their veterinary hospitals and clinics by advancing their knowledge. Learn from industry experts, discover results-driven strategies for managing successful practices and network with colleagues in the field.

For more information: (518) 433-8911 admin@vhma.org www.vhma.org

P o s t y o u r e ve n t o n l in e at: IVCJournal.com 62

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