V4I2 (Spring 2014)

Integrative VETERINARY CARE

SUPPLEMENTS FOR

SKIN DISORDERS

THERAPIES FOR INFLAMMATION, ITCHING AND PAIN. GEMMOTHERAPY FOR GENERAL PRACTICE

MANAGING MANGE

GROW YOUR PRACTICE USING THE INTERNET

LYME DISEASE

RABIES VACCINOSIS IN HORSES

WHAT’ S NEW

Based on the therapeutic use of plant buds, this healing system may be effective when others aren’t.

www.IVCJournal.com

SPRING ISSUE 2014

Attract potential clients with a professional, well-maintained website and social media.

Increased immunization has resulted in an escalation of multiple chronic health problems.

Learn how stubborn cases can respond to both conventional and complementary therapies.

Why integrative treatment offers the best hope for a return to health and performance in horses.

• Veterinary forensic sciences program • 3D printing offers help for laminitis • New study measures dogs’ ability to

follow human gestures.

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contents FEATURES

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MANGE–PERSISTENT PARASITIC INVASIONS

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Stubborn cases of demodectic and sarcoptic mange respond to a combination of conventional and complementary therapies.

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GEMMOTHERAPY FOR GENERAL PRACTICE

Developed over 40 years ago, this healing system is based on the therapeutic use of plant buds, and may be effective when other modalities aren’t.

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Nutrition Nook SUPPLEMENTS FOR SKIN DISORDERS

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Nutrients that help ease discomfort and inflammation range from antioxidants such as vitamins A and E, to plant sterols, microminerals, zinc sulfate and more.

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INNOVATIVE, COST EFFECTIVE REHAB

Setting up a rehab department in your clinic can be expensive and take up a lot of room, but this company can help.

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WOBBLER SYNDROME: PANEL DISCUSSION – PART 2

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Integrative Practice USING THE INTERNET TO GROW YOUR PRACTICE

The majority of potential clients turn to the net when looking for veterinary services or information. A professional, well-maintained website and solid use of social media are vital to attracting their attention.

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RABIES VACCINOSIS IN HORSES

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LYME DISEASE IN THE EQUINE

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Tech Talk POWER TO THE PET OWNER

Increased immunization in equines has resulted in an escalation of multiple chronic health problems.

Integrative treatment of this serious condition offers the best hope for a return to health and performance.

Want happier clients with healthier pets?

Empower them to play a bigger role in keeping their animals well.

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Though this condition is often considered incurable and even unmanageable, alternative approaches can be very beneficial. Three veterinarians discuss how TCVM can help.

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advisory board

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COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS

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.

5 Advisory board 8 Editorial 12 What’ s new

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.

19 From the AHVMA 34 Industry innovations 55 Veterinary resource guide 56 From the AVH

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 trai ned 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.

63 Social media 64 From the VBMA 65 Marketplace 66 Events

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. Barbara Fougere, DVM, CVAA graduated in 1986, and was named the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Educator for 2011. Dr. Fougere is the principal 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.

Dr. Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH, 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 the author of the Healthy Animal’s Journal and the co-author of the Homeopathic Repertory: A Tutorial.

IVC Winter 2014

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Integrative VETERINARY CARE

SPRING 2014

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Associate Editor: Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social Media Manager: Natasha Roulston Social Media Editor: Jasmine Cabanaw Cover Photography: Steve Hull

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ihor Basko, DVM, CVA Stephen R. Blake, DVM, CVA, CVH Paula Jo ( PJ ) Broadfoot, DVM Carmen Colitz, PhD, DVM, DACVO Henry Dinneen Barbara Fougere DVM, CVA Peter Gold Joyce Harman DVM, MRCVS Naomi Kirby, DVM, MS Cynthia Lankenau, DVM, CVA Lucy Postins Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA Laura Wonderling, PhD

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ADMINISTRATION & SALES Publisher: Redstone Media Group President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Sherri Soucie Circulation & Administration: Libby Sinden

CDN MAIL: IVC Journal, 202-160 Charlotte St. Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8.

The opinions expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of IVC Journal, does not promote any of the products or services advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers.

SUBMISSIONS: Please send all editorial material, photos and correspondence to Dana Cox at Dana@redstonemediagroup.com or IVC Journal, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202 Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8.

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IVC Journal (ISSN 2291-9600) is published four times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2014. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: March 2014.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALS...

ONE READER AT A TIME.

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editorial

spring

Gearing up for

Spring is coming. People who have been holed up during the cold winter months will soon start making appointments for their animal companions. Now is a good time to think about new solutions for the potential spring problems in our practices – it could even help lower our stress in the midst of this busy season.

This issue of IVC Journal features a number of seasonal topics, starting with integrative options for a variety of skin conditions, including Dr. Paula Jo Broadfoot’s approach to mange, which can help deeply cure many of these very itchy dogs.

Of course we know that the skin usually reflects the body’s internal health, so building on health from within always improves skin and coat appearance. Dr. Nancy Scanlan offers advice on supplements that generally improve both, as well as relieve skin inflammation.

Dr. Stephen Blake takes it a step further and introduces us to Gemmotherapy, a modality that draws on the medicinal properties present in plant buds. You may already know that many modalities are referred to as “complementary” because they can be used synergistically with each other. For example, the Gemmotherapy remedy Black Currant stimulates the adrenal cortex, which among other effects can decrease pruritis, so it could be used with the many mange treatments suggested

by Dr. Broadfoot.

That’s the beauty of integrative veterinary medicine. Even for apparently incurable conditions, integrative veterinarians have a variety of treatment options to offer clients. When one modality (conventional, TCVM, homeopathy, chiropractic, etc.) does not help, we can turn to another. Our panel of distinguished veterinary experts gives us a wonderful example of this dynamic in their discussion on TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine) for Wobbler syndrome.

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Sometimes, multiple approaches are required for the more challenging cases. Dr. Joyce Harman shows us how effective a full spectrum approach can be for a condition as difficult as Lyme disease.

Dr. Cindy Lankenau gives us pause for thought in her article discussing the severe deterioration of horse health since the requirements for rabies vaccines were ramped up in the last decade. She also shows how holistic approaches like homeopathy can sometimes reverse the harm caused by these vaccines.

Finally, money. Many of us struggle to make the incomes we desire and need. Peter Gold’s excellent article shows you how to use the internet to market your practice and increase your income. My own article describes many ways vet techs can empower clients so they will recognize early warning signs of illness and come to you sooner.

As always, my commitment is to empower veterinarians and clients to maximize the health of pets, so let me know what you want to hear more about in IVC Journal. Email me if you are seeking new approaches to health, wonder what training to undertake next, or to share your best successes.

Sincerely,

Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Associate Editor drtina@ivcjournal.com

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contributors 1. IHOR BASKO, DVM, CVA Dr. Ihor Basko graduated from Michigan State University in 1971 with a DVM degree with special interest in cardiology, orthopedic surgery and internal medicine.

He began his studies in Chinese medicine, acupuncture, herbology and homeopathy in 1974. He joined the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 1977 and began teaching acupuncture, herbology, and nutrition to IVAS in 1979. He was certified in 1985 and is a member of the AHVMA, AVMA, VBMA, and HVMA licensed in California and Hawaii. Dr. Basko practices TCM/Acupuncture and Nutritional Therapy on Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii.

2. STEPHEN R. BLAKE, DVM, CVA, CVH Dr. Stephen Blake has been practicing in San Diego for the past 41 years, and for the past 33 years has dedicated his energy to holistic veterinary medicine. He practices classical homeopathy, acupuncture, Bach Flower therapy, aromatherapy, massage, gemmotherapy, glandular therapy, and nutrition. He is a member of the Council of Elders for the AHVMA, certified by IVAS in veterinary acupuncture, certified by AVH as a classical veterinary homeopath, an Usui Reiki Master, and author of The Pet Whisperer – Stories About My Friends the Animals and Gemmotherapy for our Animal Friends.

3. PAULA JO (PJ) BROADFOOT, DVM Dr. PJ Broadfoot graduated Cum Laude from Kansas State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1981, and started her own practice in Van Buren, Arkansas in 1982. She developed an early interest in the nutritional aspects of healing, which progressed over the past 18 years into a holistically oriented practice. Dr. Broadfoot was hired in 2001 as a veterinary consultant for Heel, and has presented lectures on homotoxicology. She has also lectured internationally for the Vetri-Science Company, a recognized authority in the research and product development of high quality supplements for animals.

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Dr. Broadfoot is a member of the CIVT faculty, as well as the AVMA, the Arkansas VMA, and the AHVMA.

4. BARBARA FOUGERE, DVM, CVAA Dr. Barbara Fougere graduated in 1986, and was named the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Educator for 2011. Dr. Fougere is the principal 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.

5. JOYCE HARMAN, DVM, MRCVS Dr. Joyce Harman 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.

6. CYNTHIA LANKENAU, DVM Dr. Cynthia Lankenau received her DVM from Cornell University in 1981, and started studying alternative modalities in 1992. She is certified with the IVAS, AVCA and AHV, and in Chinese Herbal Medicine through the Chi Institute and CIVT. She is a registered herbalist through the American Herbal Guild and is currently working on CIVT’s Western Graduate Herbal program.

She is the current Past President of the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association, and owns a private integrative mixed practice.

7. NANCY SCANLAN, DVM, CVA Dr. Nancy Scanlan is the Executive Director for the AHVM Foundation. She has been using complementary

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health therapies in her veterinary practice since 1969.

She uses nutraceuticals, acupuncture (IVAS certified), non-classical homeopathy, Chinese and Western herbs, and homotoxicology. Dr. Scanlan has held multiple leadership roles in holistic veterinary associations.

She recently resigned from three years as Executive Director of the AHVMA to work fulltime for the AHVM Foundation. She is a member of the VBMA, AHVMA, AVMA, CVMA and SCVMA, and a consultant for Ark Naturals, Vetriscience and Thorne Research.

8. PETER GOLD Peter Gold is President of the marketing and communications firm Gold, Orluk & Partners, based in Avon, Connecticut. He is considered an expert in internet and cause related marketing. He has a degree in biology and has been trained in the field of homeopathy by Dr. Andre Saine and the Canadian Academy of Homeopathy. He has served on a number of holistic associations, including the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, the National

Center for Homeopathy, and the Canadian Academy of Homeopathy. He can be reached at peter_gold@goldorluk.com.

Meet the IVC gurus! LIKE us on Facebook to learn more about integrative leaders in the veterinary community.

facebook.com/IVCJournal

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what’s new Recognizing the need for continued education in the field of veterinary forensic sciences, the University of Florida’s Maples Center for Forensic Medicine and the ASPCA have announced a new graduate program. Students can earn a Master of Science degree in Veterinary Forensic Sciences from the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville, Florida.

The two-year program will include courses that focus on pathology, osteology, animal law, and the intersection of farm animal welfare and forensic sciences.

“We’re seeing a stronger emphasis placed on forensics when it comes to the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases, so these skills are becoming increasingly important for veterinarians, law enforcement personnel and other professionals,” says Dr. Randall Lockwood, ASPCA senior vice president of forensic sciences and anti-cruelty projects. maples-center.ufl.edu

Photo courtesy of Kim Wolf, University of Florida

VETERINARY FORENSIC SCIENCES PROGRAM

AVH PRESIDENT NOW ON COUNCIL ON VETERINARY SERVICE Dr. Ann Swartz, the outgoing president of the AVH, has been appointed to a three-year position on the AVMA Council on Veterinary Service (CoVS).

The CoVS works to assemble and make available any acts, data, opinions and recommendations related to the rendition of service to the veterinary profession and the public. It studies and suggests means for the delivery of high quality service; investigates matters pertaining to the economic and social aspects of veterinary service; and also advises and assists organizations represented in the AVMA House of Delegates on issues concerning veterinary service.

Dr. Swartz is looking forward to continuing the advancement of veterinary homeopathy awareness and the AVH.

HERDER, HUNTER OR LIVESTOCK GUARDER? A dog’s breed can determine how well he follows human commands, according to a new study from Oregon State University. The study found that dogs bred for predatory traits are better at following some human gestures.

The researchers tested three breeds of dog used for specific purposes: hunting (Airedale terrier), herding (border collie) and livestock guarding (Anatolian shepherd). The dogs watched a researcher point to one of two identical empty cans. If the dog then approached that same can, food was placed on it. The test was repeated ten times. When choosing between the two cans, the researchers believe each breed drew on its natural predatory tendency to eye, stalk, chase and ultimately consume food triggered by movement – in this case, a pointing human hand.

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• The border collies chose the correct can more than 85% of the time. The researchers credit their success to the fact that border collies have been bred for exaggerated eye/stalk/chase behavior.

• The Airedale terriers also performed well, showing 70% success in the tests. These hunting dogs have predatory instincts most similar to wolves, and are extremely responsive to movement and inclined to follow it.

• The Anatolian shepherds responded to human gestures less than 50% of the time on average (though with additional training, they learned to follow the commands). This finding is consistent with their breeding, say the researchers, because Anatolian shepherds, as livestock guarding dogs, have been bred to protect rather than chase.

For more details, visit bit.ly/OSU_DogBehaviorStudy.

PRIVATE DONOR DOUBLES AHVM FOUNDATION DONATIONS Interested in supporting the important research studies funded by the AHVM Foundation? Thanks to an upcoming matching fundraiser taking place during the last week of March, each dollar you donate will be matched by one dollar from a private donor. The Foundation is hoping to raise over $200,000 in primary donations – that’ll come to $400,000 with the matching donations!

Last year, the AHVM Foundation successfully funded $500,000 in education and research grants. These public donations are funding research studies investigating the use of Traditional Chinese herbs in treating lymphosarcoma in dogs, as well as a trial involving nanomedicines for canine osteosarcoma. At Cornell University, the Foundation has funded an equine study exploring the use of a Chinese herbal formula that helps control bleeding, while at the University of Pennsylvania, researchers are investigating the use of acupuncture to alleviate some of the side effects of chemotherapy. Other studies involving postural rehabilitation in horses and inappropriate urination in cats are also underway.

For more info, or to donate, visit ahvmf.org or facebook.com/AHVMAFoundation.

3D PRINTING OFFERS HOPE FOR LAMINITIS When horse vet and farrier Dr Luke Wells-Smith and his team at the Equine Podiatry and Lameness Centre saw the 3D printed shoe CSIRO built for a race horse earlier this year, they considered using 3D printing to rehabilitate lame horses like Holly, who has spent three years suffering from laminitis.

“The new shoes will work to redistribute weight away from the painful areas of the laminitic foot and give Holly, and horses like her, the chance to recover,” Dr. Wells-Smith says. “Many attempts have been made in the past to cure laminitis but it’s the 3D scanning and design part of this process that is so exciting to us.”

The 3D printing experts from CSIRO worked with horse podiatrists to scan Holly’s feet and design the “horse-thotic”, which aims to support the foot and encourage it to heal while making Holly comfortable. CSIRO’s 3D printing expert, John Barnes, says scanning the hoof would allow them to manufacture a shoe that is the “perfect fit” for these complicated foot diseases, giving horses the best possible chance for rehabilitation. equinepodiatry.com.au IVC Spring 2014

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what’s new TOP 12 DOG BREEDS Here’s the complete list: For the 23rd year in a row, the Labrador retriever is the most popular dog breed in the US, according to the American Kennel club (akc.org), which recently released its list of favorite canines for 2013. Other large breeds like the German shepherd and golden retriever took second and third places respectively, while the Doberman pinscher rose ten spots from #22 to #12.

Among smaller breeds, the French bulldog has seen a sharp rise in popularity over the past decade, with a more than 300% increase in registrations since 2003! The affectionate, easy-to-care-for Frenchie rose to number 11 last year – its highest position since the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1898.

 Labrador retriever  German shepherd  Golden retriever  Beagle  Bulldog  Yorkshire terrier  Boxer  Poodle  Rotteweiler  Dachshund  French bulldog  Doberman pinscher

EQUINE-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES FOR MILITARY VETERANS The Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) has announced an open call for proposals of research to investigate the therapeutic effects of equine-assisted activities (EAA) on military veterans with PTSD and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Caisson Platoon Equine Assisted Programs (CPEAP) originally approached HHRF to designate a call for proposals to address the growing numbers of mental health issues among veterans, and the lack of high-quality research into EAA. “Thanks to CPEAP, we are able to issue this second call for proposals specific to veterans with PTSD or TBI,” says Lynn Shaw, HHRF Board President.

Deadline for proposal submissions is May 15.

The average grant award is $50,000 for up to a one-and-a half-year period. horsesandhumans.org

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Mental health issues arising from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury is a growing problem among veterans. Studying the benefits of EAA for these men and women can help address this issue.

MANGE

– persistent parasitic invasions

By Dr. Paula Jo (PJ) Broadfoot

Skin pathologies in our patients can be persistent and unsightly.

They can also often defy strictly conventional approaches. This can be especially true of parasitic invasions, of which the most common are demodex and sarcoptes.

Demodectic mange Also known as demodicosis, colloquially called “red mange”, demodectic mange is caused by a microscopic mite of the Demodex genus. A normal inhabitant of canine skin, this mite’s 20 to 35-day life cycle from birth to death takes place on an animal host. Demodex mites are transferred through direct contact from the bitch to her puppies during their first week of life. When there is disruption of natural balance, these mites can proliferate out of control, causing skin disease.

Symptoms include localized or diffuse alopecia, erythema, and comedones associated with papular and pustular dermatitis.

It is often associated with folliculitis and furunculosis due to secondary opportunistic bacterial and/or mycotic infections, such as Malassezia, when there are changes in the cutaneous microenvironment and/or alterations of host defense mechanisms.

Factors implicated in the appearance of clinical signs of demodectic mange include genetic predisposition, malnutrition, immuno-suppressive conditions, such as stress in puppies, and/

Stubborn cases of demodectic and sarcoptic mange respond to a combination of conventional and complementary therapies.

or vaccination. It should be noted that heavy metal toxicity suppresses the immune system and opens the door to chronic conditions. The vaccine preservative thimerosal (a mercury additive) is immuno-suppressive and may be a contributing factor to the appearance of demodectic mange in post-weaning puppies, and perhaps older pets. In older dogs, neoplasia, steroid use, diabetes, hyperadrenocorticism and metabolic disease have been implicated.

A 1997 study showed that a significant alteration in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio may be implicated in the pathogenesis of canine demodicosis. Dogs also exhibit significantly lower values of other hematological parameters – hemoglobin, total erythrocytes, total leukocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes and neutrophils. Premature apoptosis of peripheral blood leukocytes may be implicated in the immuno-suppression of dogs with demodicosis. In addition, mural folliculitis is a consistent lesion of clinically active canine demodicosis, characterized by infiltration of the follicular epithelium by cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Localized demodicosis, usually in juvenile dogs, occurs as isolated scaly bald patches, usually on the face but occasionally elsewhere. It is considered common and the majority of cases resolve with no treatment of any kind. Localized disease does not involve more than two body regions. (One or two spots on the face and a leg would still qualify as localized even though the spots are not close together.) Localized disease involves no more than four spots total on the dog.

Continued on page 16.

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CEDAR OIL

Continued from page 15.

Generalized demodicosis can be very difficult to treat, and requires persistent intervention and dedicated owners, since it is multifactorial and often complicated by concurrent infections.

Demodectic pododermatitis is very resistant, confined to the paws, and often accompanied by bacterial infections, as the foot is the last stronghold of the mite. Old English Sheepdogs and Shar Peis tend to get severe forms of this condition.

Sarcoptic mange This type is caused by the deeply burrowing mite, Sarcoptes scabiei. It is extremely contagious between dogs, and can be transmitted to people. It is the mange most people picture when the think of a “mangy dog”. Dogs are highly pruritic, with progressive hair loss, reddened skin and scabbing, especially on ear flaps, eyes, elbows, feet and chest. It is often difficult to detect on skin scrapings, so it is often better to treat it on clinical signs, even in the presence of a negative scraping.

Conventional medications • Dipping – Paramite dip (a discontinued organophosphate) and lime-sulfur dips were mainstays of treatment for sarcoptes, but of very limited value in demodecosis. Generally, anything that will clear demodex will control sarcoptes.

• Goodwinol ointment – used for many decades in our practice, since approximately 10% of localized demodicosis cases will progress to generalized demodicosis, often accompanied by lymphadenopathy. Thus, we are in favor of improving the general health of the skin and immune system. Total resolution is usually less than three months.

• Ivermectin – a broad spectrum, inexpensive parasiticide. It must be used with caution in dogs with the MDR gene, such as sight hounds and herding breeds. Ivermectin is injected or given orally at .05 mg/kg to 3 mg/kg, depending on toleration.

We have had success giving ivermectin two to three times weekly, though the literature suggests daily dosing.

• Moxidectin (Advantage Multi®) – can be used to treat demodicosis and is often effective if used weekly.

Continued on page 18.

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Case This is a typical Sarcoptes case, affecting an entire litter of eight-week-old stray puppies and their dam. We often clear newly diagnosed cases with LymDyp (lime sulfur), dipping every five to seven days. It’s unbelievably stinky, so it may Photo taken June 2013 just kill the mites with the odor!

These were very stubborn cases, however, and ultimately cleared with ivermectin given orally two to three times weekly for four weeks, accompanied by a skin cocktail of Homotox, containing Traumeel, and Photo taken October 2013 Psorinoheel, with Sulfur Heel Tablets and Cutis tablets. (Several of these are currently not available in the US.) We also recommend thymus – injections and oral – for immune and inflammatory modulation.

Katy is an eight-monthold Labrador retriever with localized mange diagnosed on November 8, 2013. She had been treated elsewhere with Dectomax (1% Doramectin) 1.35 ml SQ. There was a primary “lesion” with some balding spots on her muzzle, around the ears, and the lower part of her front legs. The local vet considered this to be a generalized demodectic mange.

This particular dog had undergone some significant stressors prior to the outbreak, including weaning, vaccinations, parvo, and otitis, which was intermittently treated with a potent steroid/antibiotic combination for six months.

Katy’s owner contacted us on November 15 for supplemental help. We contributed a blue-green algae supplement with Ritezyme, GlutaDMG, IGG, Probiotic 123 (Pure Encapsulations), Arabinogalactan, and Cacao. We also sent PentaGenesis (New Zealand deer velvet, perna, thymus, colostrum, porphyra) on the basis of research on psoriasis in people. Katy’s skin was clear by early January of this year.

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Rosco is a 14-week-old Yorkie with localized demodectic mange. He had been previously vaccinated, and was overrun with fleas, which added to his overall stress. He had lesions on head only, with small patchy dermatitis. We treated him with Homotox: Traumeel, Psorinoheel, Schwef Heel + Thymus Extract. This was mixed with Vetri-DMG liquid.

Topically, we had the owners apply Goodwinol once daily, in addition to thymus topically mixed with zinc (ZnDerm7) in a Eucerin lotion base.

Eight-month-old boxer Annabell was diagnosed with generalized demodectic mange on December 2, 2013. She was treated with oral ivermectin. Her immunological issues were approached with a thymus injection (Kyosenex. ULR Labs) combined with Cutis comp and Coenzyme comp.

This was also made into an Auto-sanguis oral dilution (a subject for another article). PentaGenesis was sent home for general support and repair, and a Manuka-based topical spray was dispensed for the inflammatory lesions. The diet was changed to a grain free kibble.

The second picture shows Annabell one month later. The lesions have improved significantly over her entire body and the foot lesions have disappeared. This patient would benefit from another injection of thymus extract.

Annabell at diagnosis

One month later

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Continued from page 16.

• Amitraz (Mitaban) Dip – this is an old therapy we have not used in many years, but the best efficacy was at double strength applied weekly. It can be quite toxic, particularly in small dogs. Preventic (amitraz) collars have had some success, but they must be changed often (about every four weeks).

• Doramectin – given as injections or orally 0.6 mg/kg every one to two weeks, or milbemycin (Interceptor) 1 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg every two weeks.

•M ilbemycin oxime (Interceptor) can be an effective but expensive approach to generalized demodicosis (0.52 mg/ kg to 3.8 mg/kg of body weight, q 24 hr). May be used in dogs with genetic sensitivity to ivermectin (herding breeds, primarily, carrying the MDR gene). Some dogs require concurrent dipping.

Complementary treatments Physiological stress is an important factor in the severity of demodectic mange, so consider diet and nutrition, internal parasite control, judicious use of vaccines, and spaying females to minimize the hormonal shift that causes mites to proliferate. Avoid steroids, as they suppress the immune response. Both endogenous and exogenous steroids will cause significant involution of the thymus gland. Which brings us to our complementary therapies.

• Thymus extracts come from the thymus glands from bovine, ovine or porcine sources. Basic and clinical research has been conducted on these since the early 1900s. The results are encouraging and demonstrate the effectiveness of oral or injectable thymic fractions. Thymus extracts have been shown to modulate the production, maturation and activation of T lymphocytes and macrophages, and to stimulate conversion of immature thymocytes (T6 cells) to non-dedicated T cells (T3 cells) in human bone marrow. Auto-sanguis (auto-hemo therapy) will help with modulating the immune system, and with reducing the antigen/antibody reaction to the self tissues, down-regulating chronic inflammation. This is one of our mainstays in the treatment of immunological challenges.

• Beneficial classic homeopathics include Sulfur, Silicea and Psorinum. It is best to consult a qualified homeopath to make sure the remedy fits the case. Several complex homeopathics are available from from Heel. For example, Psorinoheel, containing miasmatic nosodes, as well as Cutis comp, Coenzyme comp, BHI Skin, and Echinacea comp forte (for concurrent pyoderma). Regrettably, these are no longer available in the US, but they can still be sourced from Europe.

• Also recommended would be an immune-stimulating glandular complex compound, and supplements that target gut/liver function. We routinely use blue-green algae as a bio-modulator, along with with Gluta-DMG (Vetri-Science), Probiotic 123 (Pure Encapsulations), Food Grade Enzymes

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(Ritezyme), Colostrum/IGG, et.al. A badly afflicted older dog with demodex benefited from the algae compound in addition to his ivermectin and Preventic collar, despite having concurrent ehrlichiosis.

•O ther adjunctive care: o Vitamin E (natural), up to 1,600 IU/day in divided doses. o Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the baseline inflammation. o Lemongrass and cedar oil have been reported as effective therapeutics, as an adjunct to immune support. o Herbals and supplements to fight bacterial infections and strengthen the immune system include echinacea, arabinogalactans, olive leaf, neem leaf, colostrum and pau d’arco. o Also useful for infection is colloidal silver, which can be used topically and orally. o Virgin coconut oil shampoo at high concentration (70% to 80%) eliminated Sarcoptes spp. and Demodex spp. by about the tenth week of treatment o We have also been intrigued with the use of Manuka hydrosol formulas, which have antibacterial, antiinflammatory, anti-yeast and reparative qualities. o Neem oil is helpful for both demodectic and sarcoptic mange.

Bathe three times weekly with 1 oz to 2 oz of neem oil per 16 oz of shampoo.

LEMONGRASS

References Caswell JL, Yager JA, Parker WM, Moore PF. “A prospective study of the immunophenotype and temporal changes in the histologic lesions of canine demodicosis.” Vet Pathol, 1997: Jul;34(4):279-87.

Chen TA, Hill PB. “The biology of Malassezia organisms and their ability to induce immune responses and skin disease”. Vet Derm., 2005: 16:4–26.

Ghubash R. “Parasitic Miticidal Therapy”. Clin Tech Small Anim Pract., 2006: 21:135–44.

Gothe R. “Demodicosis of dogs – a factorial disease?” Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr, 1989: Sep 1;102(9):293-7.

Kouttab et al.“Thymomodulin: Biological Properties and Clinical Applications.”Med. Oncol. and Tumor Pharmacother, 1989: 6, 5-9.

Shipstone M. “Generalised demodecosis in dogs, clinical perspective.” Aust Vet J., 2000: 78:240–42 Singh SK, Dimri U, Sharma MC, Sharma B, Saxena M. “Determination Of CD4+ And CD8+ T Cells In The Peripheral Blood Of Dogs With Demodicosis”. Parasitology, 2010: Nov;137(13):1921-4.

Singh SK. Dimri U, Sharma MC, Swarup D, Sharma B, Pandey HO, Kumari P. “The role of apoptosis in immunosuppression of dogs with demodicosis”. Vet Immunol Immunopathol, 2011 Dec 15;144(3-4):487-92. doi:10.1016/j.vetimm.2011.08.008. Epub 2011 Aug 17.

Skotnicki AB. “Therapeutic application of calf thymus extract (TFX)”. Medical Oncology & Tumor Pharmacotherapy, 1989: 6(1):31.

Skotnicki AB, Dabrowska-Bernstein BK, Babrowski MP, Gorski A, Czarnecki J, Aleksandrowicz J. “Biological properties and clinical use of calf thymus extract TFX-Polfa”. Thymic Hormones and Lymphokines, ed. Goldstein, AL. Plenum Press, 1984: 545.

From the AHVMA

Fulfilling our mission The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association explores and supports alternative and complementary approaches to veterinary healthcare, and is dedicated to integrating all aspects of animal wellness in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.

In keeping with our mission, the AHVMA continues to be an active voice for integrative medicine and all its varied forms. As our organization promotes education and the practice of complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) in our veterinary profession, we have experienced recent successes on many fronts.

• In our new affiliate status with the AVMA, and as a member of their House of Delegates (HOD), we actively discussed and supported both homeopathy and the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA) at this winter’s HOD session.

The anti-homeopathy bill was defeated, and the AAVA was accepted as the newest HOD voting member. It was thrilling to feel the wave of support for our membership from our conventional colleagues – over 90% of the AVMA delegate votes were in our favor.

• An increasing number of holistic and integrative lectures are now accepted for Continuing Education credit in many states.

The AHVMA will continue to campaign for our members’ right to learn and be credited for our knowledge.

• Our position on the AVMA Reference Committee for Education and Science gives us a voice in these categories, allowing open discussion during the formation of final committee recommendations prior to HOD votes.

• The AHVMA, as a professional resource for the AVMA Committee on the Guidelines for Complementary and

Alternative Veterinary Medicine, will be a voice for all aspects of holistic medicine as policy is made.

Annual conference and retreat Our upcoming AHVMA conference from September 13 to 16 in Portland, Oregon, will include information on a wide variety of current and relevant CAVM topics. There will also be three interactive labs covering chiropractic/joint mobilization, Tai chi, and herbal preparations.

The conference covers fascinating and useful subjects, from acupuncture to homeopathy, leeches to bee venom, range of motion to free range foods, and much more. Most days have four concurrent tracks. Our highly qualified and dynamic speakers come from all over the world, from general practice to academia. To view the list of speakers, topics and to register, go to AHVMA.org.

Before the conference, we will hold our annual AHVMA retreat, “Healer, Heal Thyself”, from September 7 to 11 at Breitenbush Retreat and Conference Center. Breitenbush is a worker-owned cooperative and one of the most pristine natural hot springs retreat locations in the US. All members, family and friends are welcome to participate in the retreat.

The AHVMA is committed to bringing CAVM treatments and solutions into the consciousness of mainstream medical thinking and practice. As integrative practitioners, we are moving forward in our profession. We are a visible, effective and successful voice for positive change in the way veterinary medicine is practiced.

And most importantly, we are creating an environment for true health in the wonderful animals we treat. Join us!

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Advertorial

The PROS of PROBIOTICS

By Laura Wonderling, PhD

Did you know that GI tract is the largest immune system in the body? That means that GI disturbances can impact the overall health status of both dogs and cats. If you also consider that GI problems were among the top ten health issues in 2013, it is clear that pet parents need effective GI health solutions.

pathogens. Strain 14 inhibited all ten pathogens while strain 5 was unable to inhibit any of the pathogens. These results demonstrate the varying efficacy among different probiotics.

The key finding is to understand what benefit the probiotic provides in order to support the GI imbalance and the animal.

Probiotics are mentioned everywhere, both in human and animal supplements, as well as foods. With all the new products out there, it’s important to know that not all probiotics are the same.

First, the probiotic should be proven safe in a variety of standard tests. Next, the probiotic needs to grow rapidly in the gut – this rapid growth allows the probiotic to be effective in the microbially dense gut environment and produce beneficial metabolites that inhibit the “bad” bacteria. Conversely, a good probiotic needs to have no negative impact on the “good” commensal bacteria that populate the gut. Next, stability is a key characteristic, both for storage/shipping integrity of the probiotic product, and after consumption as the probiotic travels through the harsh upper GI environment (acids, enzymes) to the intestinal tract. And last but not least, a probiotic must confer at least one beneficial effect to the animal, which supports intestinal balance.

Figure 1

Just as there are different breeds of dogs and cats, there are different probiotics that vary greatly from a safety, stability and efficacy standpoint. Probiotics are first defined by their species. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus is a different species than Lactobacillus casei. Next, they are defined further by their strain such as seen in the example of Lactobacillus casei 2311 versus Lactobacillus casei B18. Different strains may have very different activities. In our laboratories at Kemin Industries, we performed an experiment where we tested 14 different strains of a single probiotic species for the ability to inhibit ten different bacterial pathogens.

As shown in Figure 1, the results indicated a large difference of inhibitory activity among these 14 probiotics to various

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10 9

# Strains Inhibited

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Strain 1 Strain 2 Strain 3 Strain 4 Strain 5 Strain 6 Strain 7 Strain 8 Strain 9 Strain 10Strain 11Strain 12Strain 13Strain 14

A proven probiotic Bacillus subtilis PB6 is a probiotic isolated and produced by Kemin.

It has been used in livestock and poultry for over ten years, and now Kemin is providing it along with other ingredients to companion animal veterinarians. PB6 has been shown to be effective against a number of pathogens, and support the good bacteria in the gut. In addition, it does not interfere with many commonly-used antibiotics. The Kemin patented Bacillus subtilis PB6 is backed by several published studies showing it to be safe, stable and effective at managing stool quality and supporting normal GI health.

For a technical overview of Bacillus subtilis PB6, or references, please contact us at supplements@kemin.com.

Laura Wonderling, Ph.D. is a Director of Research and Development for the companion animal health division of Kemin, where she leads the development of companion animal health products and product trials.

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Gemmotherapy FOR GENERAL PRACTICE

By Stephen R. Blake, DVM, CVA, CVH

BLACK CURRANT

A

s healers, our goal is to awaken the doctor within, and in the process do no harm. That means using gentle therapies such as Gemmotherapy, which provides both quantum and Newtonian healing potential. I use this modality in every patient I see.

Gemmotherapy is a drainage healing system developed in Europe over 40 years ago. Preliminary research into the therapeutic use of plant buds was started by Dr. Pol Henry of Belgium in the 1950s. In 1971, after extensive clinical research on immature plant materials, Max Tetau, MD, introduced the therapeutic technique known as Gemmotherapy.

WHAT IT INVOLVES The buds or young shoots of immature plants are macerated and extracted with glycerin for 21 days, then made into a 1X potency. The extracts found in the buds are high in growth factors, which contain phytohormones called auxins and gibberellins. Auxins have a fetal hormonal action, while gibberellins stimulate RNA and protein synthesis. In the system of Gemmotherapy I use, 60 plants are utilized.

They work well in combination with homeopathy (and other modalities) and are well tolerated by both animals and caregivers. “When an emunctory of the organism, that is an excretory system such as the kidneys, the liver, etc., is inadequate or blocked, when a glandular or tissulary system is deficient, when a well individualized treatment conforming to the simillimum of the patient does not give the hopeful results, but on the contrary presents aggravations or the

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appearance of new troubles, it is necessary to stimulate the organs of elimination by means of medications whose organic tropism or physiological affinities are known...” writes Dr. Tetau in Gemmotherapy: A Clinical Guide.

GEMMOTHERAPY MAY HELP WHEN OTHER MODALITIES DON’T I have utilized classical homeopathy, acupuncture, glandular therapy, nutrition, and aromatherapy and Bach flowers for over 30 years in dogs, cats, horses, reptiles and birds. Many times the cases were not progressing, and no matter what I tried, there was a factor none of my modalities could remedy. It wasn’t until I discovered Gemmotherapy that I was able to help these otherwise incurables. This is another tool that can complement any modality you are presently utilizing, including the conventional treatments of surgery and pharmaceuticals.

This is another tool that can complement any modality you are presently utilizing, including the conventional treatments of surgery and pharmaceuticals.

The beauty of this system is you can start patients on it along with other selected treatments to get a complementary effect.

Chronic debilitated cases should be started out slowly. Areas of the body most negatively impacted by the environment need continued support to prevent them from rebuilding toxins that can inhibit the body’s ability to replicate cells. Since most toxins impact the cardiovascular system (heart/small intestine), digestive system (stomach, spleen), lung/large intestine, kidney/bladder and liver/gallbladder, these are prime areas of concentration for your drainage treatment and prevention.

Continued on page 24.

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Continued from page 23.

CLIENT UNDERSTANDING AND COMPLIANCE After evaluating each patient individually and assessing his current level of toxicity, I select one to eight Gemmotherapies and have the client administer them at a frequency suited to their animal’s particular needs and responses to treatment.

It is extremely important to make sure the client understands what healing is all about, so they do not react to symptoms the pet generates in the process of healing. The concept of starting and stopping a remedy must be explained to them so they do not treat too fast and make the patient uncomfortable by accelerating the detoxification process too quickly.

Our goal is to get to a point where we can give a few drops of the Gemmotherapy with no detectable physical or emotional response for a week, and then we are ready to proceed to maintenance.

The buds or young shoots of immature plants are macerated and extracted with glycerin for 21 days, then made into a 1X potency.

Explaining to your clients the purpose of the medicine you are prescribing is the key to success. Each Gemmotherapy is specific for detoxing and strengthening the particular organ system that needs drainage and support. The animal may worsen before improving, indicating that the body is responding to the medicine. The beauty of this system is that it is simple, gentle and easy to explain. Referring clients to my website and book, Gemmotherapy, the Gentle Way to Healing Animals, can save a great deal of time and will allow them to review material as needed.

DOSE AND DOSING Quantity: I recommend a very low dose for my patients. I use one to two drops per dose for cats; five for dogs; and ten drops for horses.

The easiest way, which works 95% of the time, is to put it in the food. For patients that are more discerning, I have the owner massage it into their ears. I tell cat owners to put the dose on the tip of a finger and massage the inside of the ear. Do not put drops directly into the ear; cats do not like anything dropped into their ears but they

LIME TREE

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GIANT REDWOOD

do like having their ears massaged. When the remedy is absorbed transdermally, it may take a little longer to see the effect.

Frequency: Give daily one to four times a day until there are no clinical symptoms of the disease, then give a maintenance dose once per week. The weekly maintenance Gemmotherapy helps prevent further pathology from developing, given that patients are exposed to physical and emotional stress throughout their lives. If a patient should relapse during the course of their healing process, I instruct clients to go back on daily doses.

Dosing with more than one remedy: If a patient has a great deal of physical pathology, I recommend one to five drops and to rotate the remedies, so that on any one given day they only get one Gemmotherapy at a time.

Dosing ultra-sensitive patients: One drop of the Gemmotherapy can be diluted in half a cup up to a gallon of water, depending on how sensitive the patient is. Start with one drop of this mixture. Repeat once a day for three days. If there is no aggravation, decrease the volume of water by half and repeat the same three-day process.

Continued on page 27.

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MATERIA MEDICA OF GEMMOTHERAPIES In the past ten years of using this system, I have found that the following Gemmotherapies are most common.

Black Currant (Ribes nigrum) – Adrenal Stimulates the adrenal cortex and adrenal gland. Is antiinflammatory, and treats asthma, allergies, autoimmune diseases and anaphylaxis. This is an excellent detoxing and strengthening Gemmo for the adrenal glands.

I dose it at one to four times per day as needed for any allergic condition. It is an excellent substitute for cortisone, antihistamines or any other anti-inflammatory product you may be using. I find it very helpful in puritis cases to help manage the itching while I am detoxing and balancing the patients’ immune systems.

Bloodtwig Dogberry (Cornus sanquinea) – Thyroid This is indicated for any thyroid-related problem. I have used it in hypo, hyper and cancers of the thyroid gland.

It is an excellent adjunct therapy for helping detox and strengthening the thyroid gland. I dose at twice per day.

Common Juniper (Juniperus communis) – Liver and kidney Young shoots of juniper are useful in hepatic insufficiency, in a decompensation phase with jaundice, and markedly disturbed laboratory tests. It is also useful for obesity and allergies. Best given daily for six weeks and then once per week thereafter for the remainder of the patient’s life. If I have a patient with chronic degenerative hepatitis or cancer I continue them on it for life. Do not use for cancer of the kidney.

English Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) – Heart Increases myocardial tone, particularly in the left side of the heart. Has a sedative effect on all pericardial pain. Indicated in cardiac insufficiency and associated symptoms, cardiac spasms, tachycardias, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias, as well as in pericardial pain, palpitations from anxiety and thyroid issues. Dose at twice per day depending on the patient’s need. I have been able to get cardiac patients off all medications utilizing this particular Gemmotherapy.

European Oak (Quercus pedonculata) – Adrenal and male hormones, gum mucosa I use this in neutered males to help establish a better hormonal balance secondary to their castration. It is excellent for deficient adrenal glands and can help in Addison’s disease cases. It is excellent for strengthening the mucosa in cases of periodontal disease. I recommend twice per day.

European Walnut (Juglans regia) – Pancreas, antimicrobial, bronchitis This is an excellent drainer and support for the pancreas.

I recommend two drops a day in cats, five drops in dogs, and ten drops in horses twice per day to help balance their blood sugars. Can be used for cancer, but not of the kidneys.

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Fig Tree (Ficus carica) – GIT and antibacterial This is the most incredible remedy for any GI-related illness. I have used it for IBD, colitis, acute or chronic diarrhea, and any form of vomiting. I dose once per meal or as needed for vomiting and diarrhea. Also could be used for obesity and warts.

Giant Redwood (Sequoia gigantean) – Nervous and hormonal systems This particular remedy is excellent for weakness of anything below the waist. I have found it excellent for urinary incontinence, paraparesis and paralysis of the rear limbs, and low endurance. I have had several prostatitis cases that responded immediately to this Gemmo and that continued to have no further problems. I dose twice per day. This Gemmo is an estrogen precursor, so is good for spayed animals with weight or incontinence issues post ovario-hysterectomy). It’s also a testosterone precursor – good for males with deficiency issues post castration.

Lime Tree (Tilia tomentosa) – Nervous system I have utilized this many times in behaviorial conditions and found it to be very effective in calming the nervous system so the animal can act instead of react. This is an excellent remedy for epilepsy, rabies miasms, vaccinerelated neurological disease and phobias. I dose one to four times per day as needed.

Mountain Pine (Pinus montana) – Spine and joints For any spinal-related disease, I recommend this Gemmo one to four times per day. It will strengthen and detox the spine and alleviate any small joint problems.

I have used it in disc-related paralysis, spinal trauma, spondylosis, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative arthritis and chronic back issues. It also drains the liver.

Rowan Tree (Sorbus domestica) – Venous system I use this remedy in all ear, nose and throat cases to assist the body in clearing any toxins that may be blocking its efforts to heal in these areas. I have used it for hearing loss, chronic otitis, nasal discharge, tonsillitis and chronic choking conditions. Dose at twice per day.

Wild Woodvine (Ampelopsis weitchi) – Cartilage This Gemmo rebuilds and repairs joints – i.e., hip dysplasia, anterior cruciate ruptures, sprains/strains, degenerative arthritis, cartilage damage, ankylospondylosis, etc.

COMMON JUNIPER

GETTING TO THE

ROOTS OF PET FOOD MOUNTAIN PINE

– PART 2

BALANCING FOOD SAFETY WITH INGREDIENT INTEGRITY

Continued from page 24.

Do this until you are down to once ounce and then try going to one straight drop per day (or the dose you are trying to achieve). This allows a more gradual detoxification process for more sensitive patients. If they do experience an aggravation, I explain to clients that this is a healing response and we need to go slower. I will have them back off for a few days until the animals are feeling well again, and then resume where we left off. Continue this until there is no aggravation and the patient is responding at a rate that is sub-clinical to the observer.

References Buescher E, Mcllheran S. “Antioxidant properties of human colostrums”. Pediatric Research, 1988: 24(1):14-9.

Gold B, Huesca M, Serman P, Lingwood C. “Helicobacter mustelae and helicobacter pylori bind to common lipid receptors in vitro”. Infection and Immunity, 1993: 61:2632-2638.

Greaves, Marcus, MD, NMD. Gemmotherapy and Oligotherapy Regenerators of Dying Intoxicated Cells. Xlibris Corporation, 2002. ISBN: 1-4010-6712-3.

Ikeda M, Sugiyama K, Tanaka T, et al. “Lactoferrin markedly inhibits hepatitis C virus infection in cultured human hepatocytes”. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 1998: 245:549-553.

Opekun AR, El-Zaimaity HMT, Osato MS, et al. “Novel therapies for Helicobacter pylori”. Aliment Pharmacol Ther., 1999: 13:35-41.

Richard, Dominique, HMD, ND. Concentrated Plant Stem Cell – Detoxification, Regulation, Rejuvenation & Nutrition, Professional Guide. Gemmobaseusa.com, 2006.

By Lucy Postins Real, minimally processed food doesn’t need artificial chemicals, sprayed-on flavorings, preservatives or colorings, because it’s already flavorful, nutritious and colorful. By-products, chemicals, refined carbohydrates, hydrogenated oils and corn syrups are bad for pets. Food shouldn’t be an “industrial product” manufactured on a mass scale by big agribusiness, nor made from intensively factory-farmed or GMO ingredients.

Understanding production methods is an important part of evaluating the roots of food. Though safety is of paramount importance, the less “touched” raw ingredients are, the better the product’s integrity.

“Kill steps” have been developed to eliminate harmful pathogens on raw ingredients. The most common are irradiation, ethylene oxide (EtO) gas, steam sterilization and high pressure pasteurization (HPP). With the advent of the Food Safety Modernization Act, increasing attention is being paid to these kill steps to ensure consumer health.

The focus for a responsible pet food company should be to balance the need for a safe product with the need to leave as much natural nutrition intact as possible.

Rooney PJ, Jenkins RT, Buchanan WW. “A short review of the relationship between intestinal permeability and inflammatory joint disease”. Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, 1990: 8:75-83.

Shin K, Yamauchi K, Teraguchi S, et al. “Antibacterial activity of bovine lactoferrin and its peptides against enterohaemorrhagic E. coli O157:H7”. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 1998: 26:407-411.

Sporn MB, et al. “Polypetide transforming growth factors isolated from bovine sources and used for wound healing in vivo”. Science, 1983: 219:1329-1331.

Yamauchi K, Tomita M, Giehl TJ, Ellison RT. “Antibacterial activity of lactoferrin and a pepsin-derived lactoferrin peptide fragment”. Infection and Immunity, 1993: 61:719-728.

Lucy Postins is co-founder and CEO of The Honest Kitchen, which makes dehydrated natural dog and cat food, treats and supplements. Lucy has long been interested in the benefits of home cooked and raw food for pets and started researching healthy nutrition for dogs and cats after adopting a Rhodesian ridgeback in 2000. She began formulating pet food products a year later.

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nutrition nook

Supplements for

skin disorders

By Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA

ermatological problems have multiple etiologies. A multi-pronged treatment approach is most likely to produce results, as opposed to only treating what is obvious (such as pyoderma). Dermatologic cases can be difficult no matter what treatment you use, but nutraceuticals can improve dermatitis in about half of

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otherwise unresponsive cases. Holistic therapies can be used for general symptoms (such as inflammation) or for specific syndromes (such as lick granulomas).

This article will concentrate on nutraceuticals as treatments for specific skin conditions, and will also include some brief comments on nutrition.

Underlying pain

Plant sterols are immune-modulating chemicals that decrease inflammation while enhancing immunity.

Skin conditions such as lick granulomas (dogs) and overgrooming of an area with subsequent hair loss and miliary dermatitis (cats), are often a sign of chronic pain or discomfort in underlying tissues. If the skin condition is on a lower leg or lower part of the body, the underlying problem is often pain in the back or a joint in the upper part of the leg, or even on the opposite leg. Tail pain is usually manifested as overgrooming at the site itself.

Microminerals

Nutritional supplements that decrease pain and/or inflammation are often helpful for these cases.

• DLPA (dl-phenylalanine) is especially helpful for back and joint pain, at a dose of 500 mg BID for a large dog, and proportionally for others.

• Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol), 400 IU per day and topically.

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), 500 to 1,000 mg BID, for large dogs, is also helpful. Because of the role vitamin C plays in regenerating vitamin E back to its antioxidant form, I recommend they always be used together. Vitamins E and C are also useful for pemphigus.

• Curcumin phytosome – the phytosome form is absorbed 29 times better than the regular form, allowing pharmacologically active levels of curcumin in the body.

Antioxidants

A true micromineral source is often overlooked. Microminerals go beyond trace minerals and mimic those found in the sea.

They have been leached out of farmland and, except on organic farms, never replaced. Diatomaceous earth and mineral deposits such as bentonite and montmorillonite are sources of microminerals, as are desalinized seawater products. Mezotrace and Quinton Marine Plasma are two commercial supplements that derive from old sea beds or the sea itself. The primary mineral in Mezotrace is calcium, so when feeding large amounts you may have to adjust the diet accordingly.

An animal that has been given an excess of drugs (including antihistamines, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and other immune suppressants), and even pets who have had no drugs but exhibit an exuberant inflammatory process with all the by-products this implies, store up toxic substances in fat and interstitial spaces.

These substances cause further inflammation, both in the

Inflammation from foods Improving nutrition in general will help most health problems, and many articles and books have been written about selecting the proper diet for each animal. In the case of food allergies or intolerance, whenever a food causes an intestinal breach, larger molecules that would not normally enter the circulatory system are absorbed. If they can be pre-digested, the allergenic load is decreased. Both plant-based and animal-based (pancreatic) enzymes can be used. Begin with plant-based; in a severely allergic animal, pancreatic enzymes are the most likely to cause an allergic reaction, are more expensive, and are often not as well accepted.

Grass-finished meat has higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, lower fat content, more beta carotene, and less E. coli and salmonella than grain-finished meat. The fatty acid content and profile more closely match that of wild game. Natural or organic meat is not necessarily grass-finished, and may still undergo a final feeding of grain for a month or two. Venison that is commercially raised, using grain to finish the carcass, also has a fatty acid profile that is closer to feedlot-fed beef than to grass-fed beef or wild venison. To decrease inflammation for an allergic animal, it may help to change the meat source to pasture-finished.

Fasting also helps get rid of

TOXINS I recommend modified fasting, allowing at least 20% of BMI calories, a maintenance level of protein, and an abundance of antioxidants, amino acids, and other phase II cofactors.

Modified fasting should not continue longer than three days. This is a much healthier way to accomplish detoxification. Excessive fasting can cause an overly large exit of toxins that build up in the blood, resulting in tissue damage, liver damage and permanent mitochondrial damage. In addition, extreme fasting will cause the body to convert muscle tissue in order to supply enough protein to maintain normal function and enzymes.

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Acai berries

skin and the rest of the body, rendering them less able to deal with inflammatory processes. Toxins are processed in the liver with phase I (cytochrome p450) and phase II system enzymes. Phase I system enzymes produce a greater number of free radicals, and are increased when there are higher levels of toxins present.

Antioxidants in as many forms as possible are critical to counteract this process and decrease inflammation: • Vitamins E and C • Bioflavonoids • Carotenoids • Grapeseed extract • Acai, goji, blueberries, blackberries and noni berries or juice • Sprouts (high in superoxide dismutase) • Coenzyme Q10 (help fuel cells to speed detoxification reactions)

Help for skin inflammation Essentially all dermatological problems cause inflammation of the skin. Many of the supplements discussed above also help directly with skin inflammation: • Antioxidants help decrease inflammation, so vitamins C and E can help. Reported results using vitamin E have been mixed, but this may be because it was not used with vitamin C. Without C to restore its action, the pro-oxidant form accumulates and gradually starts inducing more inflammation.

• Vitamin A can be used topically for feline acne and acanthosis nigricans, and anywhere that Retin-A is used. Published reports of vitamin A toxicity involve large amounts consumed over a relatively short time (e.g., 100,000 IU per day for a cat for six months), and it takes years on an all-liver diet to see the effects. Long term ingestion of relatively lower doses can still be toxic, however. If an animal is already getting fish oil as a supplement, it is wise to calculate the total amount ingested before increasing the dose. A daily dose of 25,000 IU of vitamin A for a large dog has benefits and is safe. This is in the form of real vitamin A, not beta carotene. Some bottles say vitamin A, and underneath in small print “(in the form of beta carotene)”. Besides the fact that beta carotene does not have the same effect that vitamin A does, pure beta carotene

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as a supplement has been linked with an increased incidence of three types of lung cancer in humans. There are no reports of this for mixed carotenoids.

• Antioxidants should be used as mixes, not as lone items.

• Zinc is also helpful for acanthosis nigricans; for any hyperkeratotic lesions, especially involving foot pads and nails; bacterial and yeast infections; and general dermatitis.

Excess calcium and copper can interfere with zinc uptake. The dose is 10 mg/kg/day of zinc sulfate.

• Fatty acids can be a two-edged sword. We used to see a good response to skin problems by using Omega-6 fatty acids, but most pet food companies now include enough. Excess Omega6s can increase inflammation, so supplements such as Derm Caps may compound this problem. Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory over a broad spectrum of tissues, so it is often preferable to use a supplement that only includes Omega3s. Flax oil (one source of Omega-3s) cannot be processed by cats into an active form, so fish oil is the preferable source.

Dogs only convert about 10%, and it is only converted to EPA. Algal oils on the market only contain DHA (although there are algae that produce EPA), and are expensive. For a vegan, these may be an acceptable alternative. A dose of 50 to 250 mg/kg/ day of Omega-3 fatty acids is a starting point for decreasing inflammation. The best Omega-6:3 ratio for this purpose has been found to be 1.5:1. Older research indicating an ideal ratio of 5:1 never explored a lower ratio.

• Plant sterols are immune-modulating chemicals that decrease inflammation while enhancing immunity.

• Anxiety and stress contribute to symptoms and unwanted behavior in dermatitis. Several nutritional supplements can decrease these issues. One is l-theanine, which is found in products from Vetriscience. As well, l-tryptophan is back on the market and is an excellent anxiolytic. Melatonin, given half an hour before bedtime, is also helpful. In addition, melatonin has at least some protective effect against skin tumors and also enhances the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Calcium carbonate can have a calming effect as well.

• Iodine is helpful against candidiasis. Kelp is an excellent source of both iodine and microminerals, and can be administered at the rate of 300 to 600 mg BID for a large dog.

• A concoction of half aloe vera juice and half strong black tea, mixed together and kept in the refrigerator, can be applied

Aloe

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Kelp as often as needed (at least twice a day) to hot spots or any other areas that are moist and inflamed, and to areas with a strong yeast smell. The tannic acid in the tea has an astringent effect, and aloe vera helps decrease inflammation and speed healing. It will turn white fur brown, so owners must be warned. One or more ice cubes, melted on severely itchy areas until the area remains cool, can give relief for up to an hour.

Working at the deepest levels with TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine), homeopathy, chiropractic and other modalities to rebalance the underlying quantum energetic imbalance will prevent future skin problems. Using the above nutritional aids will support the skin and alleviate symptoms while the deeper cures are developing.

References Belcaro G, et al. “Product-evaluation registry of Meriva®, a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, for the complementary management of osteoarthritis”. Panminerva Med, 2010. Jun;52(2 Suppl 1):55-62.

We frequently have the need for a safe topical treatment for minor nicks, cuts and abrasions in pets and horses. Outdoor animals especially may get wounds that can become infected from dirt and debris. The natural oils of the skin become depleted, and the wounds can become dry and infected as fungus and bacteria get into them. Animals also suffer from harsh weather conditions such as intense sun, wind, heat and cold.

One solution is Wound Care by VetzLife. It’s an all-natural treatment for scratches, minor abrasions, nicks and cuts, and even promotes healing of incisions. We combined high quality anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-parasitic plant-based oils along with natural oils containing a unique balance of Omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids and antioxidants for proper skin health.

This blend is high in alpha and gamma tocopherols (vitamin E), and in oleic and linoleic acids, making it a great skin cell regenerator. The ingredients include virgin coconut and olive oils, apricot kernel oil and neem oil, as well as red raspberry, cranberry and lavender seed oils.

Wound Care penetrates, moisturizes, and protects skin, and provides safe and rapid relief from itchy, scaly, wounded, damaged and irritating skin conditions. Its ingredients immediately offer a onetwo punch to attack any possible infection and promote rapid healing and comfort. It’s also good for post-surgery incisions to promote healing, keep out contaminants and soften the skin.

D’Arcy, G. Veterinary World Herb Handbook.

Goldstein, et al, Integrating Complementary Medicine into Veterinary Practice, Wiley-Blackwell, 2008.

Hand, MS, et al. Small AnimalClinical Nutrition, 4th Edition, Mark Morris Institute, 2000.

Henry Dinneen is the Marketing Director for VetzLife Products (vetzlife.com).

Marczylo TH, Verschoyle RD, Cooke DN, Morazzoni P, Steward WP, Gescher AJ. “Comparison of systemic availability of curcumin with that of curcumin formulated with phosphatidylcholine”. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol, 2007. Jul;60(2):171-7. Epub 2006 Oct 19.

Wynn, SG, Fougere, BJ, Veterinary Herbal Medicine, Mosby, 2007.

IVC Winter 2014

31

Product Profile

INNOVATI VE

By Dana Cox

cost-effective rehab helps animals of all sizes

D

o you have your certification in animal rehab, but don’t know where to start? Setting up a rehab department in your clinic can be an expensive proposition and take up a fair bit of space. But one company has designed a system that’s small enough to fit in a closet and strong enough to support patients from 10 to 200 lbs.

The Eddie’s Wheels Adjustable Therapy Stand was created specifically for space-challenged offices or mobile practices. The system folds up and stores against a wall, or tucks neatly into a vehicle the size of a Honda Fit.

Ed Grinnell, a mechanical engineer by trade, and his wife, Leslie, developed the Eddie’s Wheels line of professional rehabilitation equipment from their experience rehabilitating their own dogs. They discovered that the simple act of supporting a disabled dog in a normal healthy stance enhances healing and rehabilitation. The idea for the Adjustable Therapy Stand came from a group of holistic veterinarians the couple met at an International Veterinary Acupuncture Society Congress. While it was originally conceived as a way to support paretic dogs in a normal healthy stance during acupuncture and chiropractic treatments, its uses have multiplied after a long period of use in the Grinnells’ facility. The Stand adjusts for pets from 6” to 26” to the pelvic floor (Dachshund to Great Dane) and telescoping legs allow the therapist to adjust the amount of weight bearing on the front and rear legs.

It’s designed to fit over the DogTread treadmill, and practitioners can order an adjustable therapist’s bench, so they can sit while working with their patients. The optional resistance/ assistance system allows the practitioner to add resistance or work the dog’s legs much like a marionette.

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IVC Spring 2014

CASE STUDIES 1. Beau, an 11-month pitbull, presented with paresis of the hind end due to a crushing of T-13 to L1. Scar tissue consistent with puncture wounds at the site of the lesion, plus scars on the shoulder and badly cropped ears suggested he had been a victim of a dog-fighting ring. He had a severe scoliosis with displacement to the left so that his ribs touched his pelvic wing. He had overdeveloped hamstrings, and underdeveloped pectorals, so his front legs splayed out on the floor and he was unable to stand. Ed and Leslie Grinnell adopted Beau and immediately began rehab.

Beau’s first therapeutic modality, other than his wheelchair, was traction in the Adjustable Therapy Stand. Once positioned and bolstered in the stand, Beau’s reflexive spasms calm down, allowing his legs to drop. Creating stability helped the body’s function to return. As the spasm cycle receded, his muscles softened and his body opened to receive new information. With use of the resistance

system of bungees and straps, Beau achieved proper limb positioning and re-directed his reflexes to achieve successful motor involvement.

2. Dr. Patricia Young, DVM, CCRP, of Steele Creek Veterinary Rehab uses her Clinic Quad Cart to rehab Hope, a Newfie who was down for six months following an apparent cervical FCE. “Hope could move her limbs in the water, but keeping her up during the day was a true challenge, both due to her size and her lazy attitude,” explains Dr. Young.

“She was immediately happier being up in a comfortable position versus being over a physio-roll or a sling/hoist system.

She regained control of eliminations and could comfortably urinate and defecate in the Cart as well as stand to eat. The Cart allowed Hope the opportunity to strengthen her limbs and her core since she turned it herself around obstacles. As she has improved, we have lowered the Cart so that when Hope is ready to walk, she actually pushes up to a stand, her torso now lifted out of the harness and her pelvis above the saddle. She remains balanced by the Cart, and is now able to stand unassisted briefly without it. Without the Quad Cart, I am certain our backs would have limited her opportunity to recover.”

QUAD CART SAVES ANIMALS. . . AND THERAPISTS’ BACKS. Eddie’s Wheels also developed the Clinic Quad Cart, designed for use in animal hospitals and veterinary schools. It adjusts in height and length without tools to accommodate patients from 50 to 150 lbs, and comes with brakes, a tow handle and detachable headrest.

“The adjustable Clinic Quad Cart has been a lifesaver for our non-ambulatory pets in the neuro-surgery department,” says Dr. Mark Troxel, DVM, ACVIM and staff neurologist at Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital.

Dr. Cory Sims, director of the rehabilitation department at North Carolina State University Veterinary School Small Animal Hospital, appreciates the benefits the cart brings to staff as well as patients. “The Quad Cart allows two small women to process 13 rehab patients a day through the department without hurting themselves by lifting and transporting dogs,” he says. It’s also used post-operatively to support the dogs in a sternal standing position, lessening the risks of aspiration pneumonia when coming out of anesthesia.

For more information on these portable, storable and affordable rehab tools, visit EddiesWheels.com.

Left: Oden did his rehab from cervical surgery in a Quad Cart. He walked unassisted after eight weeks.

IVC Spring 2014

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industry innovations Socks for allergies

A win-win acquisition Uckele Health & Nutrition has acquired Zephyr’s Garden.

A leader in the natural product animal health industry, Zephyr’s Garden products provide effective, herbal-based all-natural products for horses and dogs. Their cover most topical issues, such as skin dermatitis, scratches, sweet itch, rain rot, sore muscles, wounds, hot spots and thrush. “With new ownership, there will be larger manufacturing and distribution capacity, enabling the products to be available far beyond our current levels,” says Zephyr’s Garden founder, Georgette Topakas. “It’s a win-win for everyone, especially the horses.”

Simple solutions sometimes have the greatest impact. Now that spring has sprung, help protect canine patients that are allergic to dust, dirt, grass and pollen with Power Paws™ socks. Dogs can wear them outside, then have them removed when returning indoors.

Because the allergens stick to the socks, not the paws, dogs won’t be able to lick or ingest what they are allergic to. During the winter, spray Power Paws with waterproofing spray to keep snow, ice and salt off paws.

WoodrowWear.com

Uckele.com ZephyrsGarden.com

Authority on acupressure

New test kit for CCV and CPV Modern Veterinary Therapeutics, LLC announces the US launch of the Canine Parvovirus-Coronavirus Antigen Test Kit, a rapid in-clinic chromatographic immunoassay for the simultaneous qualitative detection of both coronavirus and parvovirus antigens in canine feces. It’s highly sensitive and specific, providing a positive or negative result in five minutes to help practitioners recognize CCV and CPV in the clinic. Easy to use, can be stored at room temperature, and has a two-year shelf life.

ModernVeterinaryTherapeutics.com 34 34 IVC IVC Spring Winter 2014 2014

Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute is recognized as the leader in equine, canine, and feline acupressure-massage training worldwide. Their online and hands-on 300-hour practitioner certification program is taught throughout the US, Canada, Australia, and England. Learn how to apply the Traditional Chinese Medicine theories underlying acupressure by working directly with animals, and become proficient in assessing conditions, performing a comprehensive acupressure protocol, and hand techniques.

AnimalAcupressure.com

Knock odor out “Amazing Nok Out” is a heavy-duty odor neutralizer formulated to eliminate the toughest odors in the air and from all washable surfaces. Odors are eliminated at the source and the product continues to work for a longlasting effect. Use it to de-skunk an animal, on urine or vomit, to disinfect cages, kennels or exam rooms! Don’t forget the Pet Shampoo!

NokOut.ca 877-466-5688

New red laser module Respond Systems introduces the Luminex Ultra Red Laser Module – the first visible red laser probe designed for the veterinary market. At 670nm, the laser light is produced in brilliant red and absorbed within the first few centimeters of tissue, providing unique treatment options for superficial conditions, wounds and nerve repair. The Luminex Ultra Modular Class 4 Laser offers a choice of probes and wavelengths to suit the diverse needs of a veterinary practice.

RespondSystems.com

Wound care by VAH Vital-VS Topical Spray is a natural, non-irritating formula that effectively cleanses wounds of debris and helps to remove unhealthy tissue. Safe to use on hot spots, wounds, scratches, punctures, abrasions, rashes, post-surgical sites, burns, skin irritations (with or without infection), insect bites, and eye/ear infections. Quality products at affordable prices.

VitalAnimalHealth.com info@VitalAnimalHealth.com 800-344-1165

Raw and homemade base mix Preference® is one of The Honest Kitchen’s best-selling recipes, and is designed to be used with raw meat grinds, or cooked meats / fish to make a complete diet. Preference is made with dehydrated raw fruits, vegetables as well as vitamins and minerals. Try a box today – email Vets@ thehonestkitchen.com for a complimentary box, or samples for your practice.

TheHonestKitchen.com IVC IVC Winter Spring 2014

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Traditional Chinese Medicine for

wobbler syndrome: panel discussion – part 2

By Ihor Basko, DVM, CVA, Cynthia Lankenau, DVM, CVA and Barbara Fougere DVM, CVA

In the Winter 2014 issue of IVC Journal, we looked at the various definitions of wobbler and the five-pronged integrative approach to healing acute episodes and helping to prevent future problems. Part 2 of this article focuses on the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCVM) approach.

Dr. Ihor Basko: “What I love about TCVM is that it includes the healing of the ‘whole being’, not just ‘the parts’, and studies the dynamic relationship of internal and external environments. Organ function (Liver, Spleen, Kidney systems), Blood and Immune system (Wei Qi) function, the ‘state of energy’ (Qi) and energetic and nutritional deficiencies are included in the evaluation.

“TCVM (as well as homeopathy) relates the patient to his or her environment. Cold, Wind, Dampness, and sudden changes that stress the body will affect the physiology. Herbs and acupuncture used to ‘Dispel Wind, Cold, or Dampness’ help adapt the patient to these environmental stresses that aggravate neck problems in general.

“Pain is treated with herbs and acupuncture to help relieve ‘obstructions’ caused by Blood Stagnation, by improving Blood and Qi (energy flow) through the affected areas.”

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IVC Spring 2014

Dr. Cindy Lankenau: “Herbal medicines help open the channel obstructions in the neck, and balance the tension within the tendons, ligaments and osseous structures in the neck, to balance the underlying causes of cervical spondylomyelopathy.

“The Pattern of Disharmony found in these cases tends to be classified as stagnation in the neck with either secondary Qi stagnation or kidney Qi or yang deficiency.”

Blood stagnation The TCVM treatment for pain is to relieve Blood Stagnation and Obstruction of the Channels that Qi travels through.

Dr. Lankenau: “Due to the severe Blood stagnation, secondary Heat is produced (inflammation). Ehman, et al, did studies on the anti-inflammatory effects of Heat-clearing Chinese herbs. The targets comprised cyclo-oxygenases 1 and 2 (COX), MAP kinase, c-Jun terminal-NH(2) kinase (JNK) and type 4 cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE4). The results revealed that multi-target inhibitors are common in Chinese herbs1. These patients tend to have a normal or pale tongue with a taut pulse.

“The basic Chinese formula to relieve Blood Stagnation is Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang, which activates blood circulation, dispels stagnation, activates Qi circulation and relieves pain. This herbal formula helps when severe muscle spasms are encountered. Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang (Decoction of Notopterygium to Dispel Dampness) is another formula used for patients that have pronounced rigidity and pain in the back of the neck.

“Xiao Huo Luo Dan (Minor Invigorate the Collateral Special Pill) is a Damp-Cold dispelling formula that contains Zhi Cao Wu (prepared wild aconite root) to dispel the Wind, dredge the collateral and relieve pain; Zhi Chuan Wu; Tian Nan Xing (Jackin-the-pulpit root) to resolve any Dampness and Phlegm; Ru Xiang (gum olibanum); Mo Yao (myrrh) to activate Qi and blood circulation and remove blood stasis; and Di Long (earthworm) to open the channels and collaterals. This formula can be used when there are severe neurologic signs or Wind Stroke (Zhong Feng) with blood stasis and obstruction in the channels and collateral with numbness in the extremities. Due to the use of prepared aconite root, a maximum of two months length of use is recommended. “’Neck formula’ is a Patent Chinese Medicine with multiple ingredients. This formula has been found to be very helpful in these cases as it contains herbal carriers to the neck, Ge Gan, and Heat-clearing herbs.”

Dr. Basko: “Locally, I like to use ‘moving or vitalizing’ liniments such as the patent medicine Zhen Gu Shui (pseudo-ginseng root, IVC Spring 2014

37

croton seed, cinnamon bark, angelica root, gentiana, inula flower, menthol, camphor and alcohol). Applied locally to the neck, the aromatic character helps facilitate absorption into the fascia and muscles with a little massage.

“In TCM terminology, this formula ‘dispels fluid stagnation, invigorates Qi, relaxes tendons and muscles, promotes healing and stops pain’.”

Dr. Barbara Fougere: “I recommend supporting the animal with adaptogens to reduce the impact of stress. Use herbal antioxidants to reduce free radical damage. Use circulatory herbs to improve blood flow and oxygenation of inflamed tissues. Use herbal anti-inflammatory and analgesic herbs. Consider the patients’ individual needs and formulate accordingly.

One possible formula: • Dan shen (Salvia miltiorhiza) – Neuroprotective, antiinflammatory, improves microcirculation; 2 parts.

• Corydalis (Corydalis ambigua) – anodyne, spasmolytic; 1 part.

• Kava kava (Piper methysticum) – Anxiolytic, sedative, antispasmodic; 1 part.

• Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) – Nervine, sedative, antiinflammatory; 1 part.

• Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) – Anti-rheumatic, microcirculation support, neuroprotective, antiinflammatory, anxiolytic; 1 part.

Give 1 ml per ten pounds of the tincture twice daily in food, or give ¼ cup twice daily of the tea.”

Adapting to environmental changes and stresses Stressful weather and climatic changes sometimes referred to as “pathogenic evil influences or factors” will precipitate sudden onsets of pain attacks in susceptible dogs.

Dr. Basko: “Any patient whose symptoms are aggravated by Cold, Wind and Cold, or Hot and Damp weather has a form of Bi Syndrome.

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IVC Spring 2014

“The immediate cause of Bi Syndrome is environmental: the result of the body being ‘invaded’ by the climatological factors of Wind, Cold, Heat, or any combination which are said to penetrate the body’s defenses (Wei Qi) and lodge in the muscles, tendons and joints in susceptible individuals, such as when the body is deficient.

“A deficient Wei Qi (protective immunity system) is due to stress, anemia, poor nutrition, or genetic weaknesses and defects such as cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, dysplasia, etc. The patient will be more susceptible to negative physiologic changes that accompany Wind, and/or Cold penetration of the neck.

“This is a common condition in geriatric animals, overworked animals (racing Greyhounds), animals with lack of exercise, and those with acquired genetic problems (Von Willebrand, hypothyroidism, bone cancer genes). These deficiencies make animals more susceptible to changes in the environment, especially weather.

“Another cause of Bi Syndrome is when ‘pathogenic factors’ obstruct the flow of Blood and Qi, causing tissues to ‘stagnate’ through muscle tension and vasoconstriction (buildup of metabolic toxins), or causing aching or burning pain, numbness, heaviness, reduced mobility of the bones, joints and sinews. In more severe cases, there may be swelling and edema.

“If ‘wind’ is a major factor, causing neck spasms, pain in the limbs, and difficulty in movement, the AP points ‘Wind Gate’ BL12 and ‘Wind Pool’ GB 20 are very important to treatment, along with Juan Bi Tang/Chiang huo (Notopterygium) and Curcuma Combination by Sun Ten Co.”

Treat deficiency TCVM specifies which deficiency is present that needs to be treated with special foods, herbs and acupuncture treatments.

In conventional medicine, these conditions or “deficiencies” are limited to hypothyroidism, cardiomyopathy, IBD, and anemia.

Until the deficiencies are supplemented with herbs, diet and acupuncture, the problems will re-occur.

Dr. Lankenau: “For animals with an underlying Kidney yang deficiency, a general Kidney yang tonifying herb such as Shen Continued on page 40.

Healing Through Hyperthermia

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The I-Therm delivers the exact dose prescribed to animals by means of a non-invasive applicator which includes temperature sensors that safely monitor and control internal and external temperatures.

Hyperthermia • Increased metabolic rate to accelerate wound healing • Vasodilatation • Increased oxygen, plasma and nutrient delivery • Rapid removal of toxins and cell waste • Repolarization of cell membrane • Polarization of water •

ry response

• Alteration in sensory nerve conduction / pain perception • Apoptosis

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39

Case studies for wobbler No. 1 – Barbara Fougere A six-year-old neutered male Doberman (owned by a breeder who has had several dogs with wobbler over many years) presented with ataxia and ventral flexion of the neck, progressively deteriorating in mobility over one to two years. There was nail wear consistent with dragging, and proprioceptive losses to the hind legs. Previous radiographs were consistent with vertebral malformation. The dog was treated previously with prednisolone, then Metacam and a neck brace. His skin was dry, with dry scurf over the lower back (Blood deficiency – poor circulation to skin), and he had muscle spasms in the neck and hind legs (Blood deficiency).

His owner elected to try gold wire implantation to the dorsal neck, and took home Bu Gan Tang. Within one week, the dog’s mobility returned with no foot dragging. Improvement continued over six months, during which he was continued on Bu Gan Tang and an improved diet (whole food and supplements). There was no recurrence of lameness, and he showed general signs of improved health such as clear skin and glossy coat.

No. 2 – Cynthia Lankenau Ali is a five-year-old intact male great Dane initially diagnosed with cervical instability, from radiographic survey films, in February of 2012. The owner was treating him with a cervical collar and NSAIDs, and gentle chiropractic care from an AVCA-certified chiropractor.

In August of 2012, Ali began gagging up “buckets” of strings of tough viscid mucus during the evening hours when he was asleep, leading to a concomitant diagnosis of megaesophagus. He presented to me with proprioceptive deficit in all four legs. He had a complete blockage of Qi, Blood, Phlegm, food, and in his chest area.

Ali received acupuncture every week for three weeks, with gentle traction of his neck, then monthly treatments to open the channels of his neck and move the obstruction. His curative herbal formula was Yue Ju Wan, the basic formula for treating the six stagnations.

It was felt that the initial Qi stagnation from the wobbler had created “Heat” which then congealed the fluids, creating phlegm and more obstructions.

Continued from page 38.

Qi Pills, or Rehmannia 8, Ba Wei Di Huang Wan can be very helpful for strengthening the underlying Kidney, genetic predisposition.

Kim, et al, showed that Chinese herbal yang tonics had a protective effect on nervous tissue2, mostly due to decreasing oxidative stress that accelerated nerve regeneration.”

Dr Fougere: “Bu Gan Tang is useful in quite a few of the Doberman dogs with Liver Blood deficiency, having dry coats, dry food and dry nails.”

Dr Basko: “Bu Gan Tang contains tonics (rehmannia, angelica, paeonia and ligusticum) to nourish muscles and cervical vertebrae. The herb Chaenomelis (Chinese quince fruit) relieves painful obstruction due to Dampness, comforts the sinews, and relieves cramping. Zizzyphus nourishes the Liver and Heart, and calms the Spirit.

“Mobility 3 by Health Concerns (similar to Bu Gan Tang) is useful when there is a deficiency of Blood and Energy Qi (with Cold, Wind and Dampness). The addition of Kirin Ginseng root to the formula creates a strong Qi tonic effect that’s especially good for chronic IBD dogs, and old geriatric dogs with recurrent episodes.”

Ali is currently doing well on a small dose of Yue Ju Wan.

Summary

No. 3 – Cynthia Lankenau

The treatment plan for wobbler should be based on the individual’s specific needs and situation. Treat the individual, not the disease. The holistic perspective includes many more treatment options that not only help alleviate pain, but facilitate healing and strengthening, improve flexibility and support future prevention of the condition.

Shadow Dancer was diagnosed as a “wobbler” from survey radiographs in April 2002, when he was a two-year-old Thoroughbred gelding. He was unable to be ridden safely. His tongue was purple and his pulse was tight. He was diagnosed with Blood stagnation.

Shadow received monthly acupuncture treatments for several months, and was placed on Xiao Huo Luo Dan for four months.

He became pleasure-riding sound.

Shadow on 11/3/2013.

Over ten years later, he is currently on Cervical Formula pills, as needed.

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IVC Spring 2014

Ehram TM, et al. “In silico search for multi-target anti-inflammatories in Chinese herbs and formulas”. Bioorg Med Chem, 2010: March 15; 18(6):2204-18.

2 Kim TH, et al. “Protective effect og GCSB-5, an herbal preparation, against peripheral nerve injury in rats.”J Ethnopharmacol, 2011: June 22; 136(2); 297-304.

1

Beta glucans: keeping the

balance

of GREAT HEALTH

By Dr. Carmen Colitz, PhD, DVM, DACVO The immune system is a complicated intricate network that protects the body against exogenous or endogenous stressors, infections, cancer and other diseases. When the immune system becomes imbalanced, disease risk is increased. A weak or impaired immune system can predispose the body to infections, impaired healing and even cancer, while an over-exuberant immune system can result in allergies, immune-mediated diseases and, again, cancer. The majority of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract, therefore food, medications, etc. can affect systemic immunity. Maintaining an optimal immune system is critical to overall health.

Beta glucans are naturally-obtained high molecular weight polysaccharides that modulate the immune system, which is why they are known as “biological response modifiers�. They are found in various mushrooms; rice bran; plants including Poaceae (Gramineae) and Dioscoreaceae (yams); algae; seaweed; and cell walls of yeast.

Beta glucans help regulate the immune system by triggering a cascade of events that promote immune cell activation, and stimulate macrophages and lymphocytes to destroy target cells.

They can also enhance overall activity of natural killer cells, T cells and B cells. Beta glucans have the ability to simultaneously stimulate the immune system to fight disease while having appropriate anti-inflammatory properties.

Beta glucans have numerous other medicinal properties and have been used for high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and HIV in humans. In dogs, beta glucans improve vaccination titers in immuno-compromised shelter dogs, and have been used for managing atopy, demodecosis, osteoarthritis and neoplasia.

Dr. Carmen Colitz is a board certified veterinary ophthalmologist with a PhD in Comparative and Experimental Medicine.

IVC Spring 2014

41

integrative practice

USING THE INTERNET TO GROW YOUR PRACTICE

By Peter Gold

The vast majority of potential clients now turn to the net when looking for veterinary services or information. A professional, well-maintained website and solid use of social media are vital to attracting their attention.

M

any holistic veterinarians are highly skilled, yet their practices struggle to turn a profit.

One main reason is that few have been well trained in practice marketing, and how to use the internet for that purpose. Those who have had any training were taught tactics that are likely now outmoded and generally ineffective, since strategies change yearly.

FIVE CONSIDERATIONS What does it take to successfully market your practice? Here are a number of things you should consider.

you most effectively reach them? Some pet owners are better targets than others. Think about your targets carefully. What words do your clients use when looking for your services?

2 In the crush of one’s practice, it’s easy to leave the marketing of your practice to another day. Have the discipline to run your practice like a business – setting aside at least 10% or more of every week for practice marketing. This time can be spent simply reading about the topic, surfing the web to look at colleague and competitor websites for new ideas, checking your search rank, or adding new content to your website or social media sites.

3 Don’t make your potential clients work too hard. Distinguish 1 Take the time to develop a business/marketing plan for your business. Who are you targeting with your services? How can

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IVC Spring 2014

yourself right off the bat with a practice name that captures the essence of what you do in a very easy-to-understand way.

4 If you have a bricks and mortar business, location matters – and so does visibility. If you are a house-call or telephone consulting practice, having a strong internet presence and rank is absolutely crucial.

5 Set up an office or response system that is truly responsive to visitors, phone calls and emails. Remember at all times – you are in a service business. You are there to help – not sell.

CREATING AND MAINTAINING A WEBSITE Everyone is aware of the internet – that wonderful platform of infinite information that’s available to us 24/7. What many people don’t realize is that a staggeringly large percentage of purchase decisions are now influenced by that same platform. In other words – a pet owner’s decision to call your practice for a consultation will very likely be tied to what they learn about you and your practice on the internet.

• If you don’t have one – you must get a website for your practice.

This step is an absolute imperative. It is estimated that between 85% and 90% of all consumers search the web to find people like you. It’s best to build a website from scratch so you can customize it to your practice. The Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy is currently offering its members a chance to get a solid, basic practice website for $500, plus some nominal costs for domain name and web hosting services. If you are not an AVH member, you should be able to get a custom website with site hosting for between $2,500 and $5,000. Doing it yourself is also possible – but more difficult for the reasons that follow.

• A key part of your website is its “back end”, which helps people actually get to your site. Don’t skimp on any part of your site.

The key to successful internet marketing lies in being found by prospective clients, and being found means showing up on page one of a pet owner’s search results – 70% to 80% of consumers do not scroll beyond the first page of search results.

• When anyone searches for a term on the internet, they see paid ads (usually at the top of the page, and along the right hand side) as well as what are called “organic results”. The top three IVC Spring 2014

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organic search results of any internet inquiry typically get 70% or more of the clicks (clicks equal visits/calls to your site, which equals business).

• How do you get your site to appear on page one of a pet owner’s search? Internet search engines follow very sophisticated mathematical formulae to search the web, so you need to understand how they work. Each website is made up of visible text (the stuff you can easily see) and invisible text (or what is called source code). You must write both well in order to be found!

• Search engines look for key words that are relevant to the words the consumer types into the initial search box. Effective websites (those that produce page one results) make good use of keywords that match the words people use when they conduct a search. How does one determine best keywords for a site? Here is where experts can help, but there are also some internet tools like Google Adwords that can help guide you in the selection of appropriate key words.

• Effective websites require weekly care and feeding. Search engines like Google and Bing reward websites with content that is continually refreshed or renewed. Blogging is one way to keep your website filled with fresh content. You can also make a point of adding new content in the form of white papers and other free information. Making your website a resource to the community is a great way to build your practice.

• Another important factor is making sure you have plenty of links from other relevant and authoritative websites to your own. Search engines reward websites that have lots of these links – so you should seek to secure these. One way to do that is make sure you claim and update your business listing in all the local search directories, like Google Places and Yelp.

Another way to gain links is through relevant reciprocal links – linking back and forth with service providers that might be relevant to your practice (e.g., groomers, etc.). Other good link sources are those from your veterinary college and any associations you belong to.

and includes platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and more. It is also a platform that millions of pet owners use to communicate with each other, sharing content they find useful.

You want your practice to be in their conversations – so be sure to add this element to your mix.

FURTHER FACTORS

You’re probably asking: “This stuff is complicated...how do I stay current on the best internet marketing options for my practice?” The best way is to take a small percentage of time each month to browse online for articles on the topic of internet marketing. Blogs on the topic are abundant; a good one to consider is written by a company called HubSpot.

And what should you spend on these tools? Well, the answer is a bit complicated. The relatively expensive part is the build cost for a website; depending on what you decide to do, you may face price tags of $5,000 or more on the high end.

However, as mentioned earlier, you should be able to get a good basic site for less. After that, the annual costs should be fairly nominal provided you use your staff to help with content creation.

• Where does one start? Probably with Facebook. It is the largest social media platform and one of the easiest to launch.

Pinterest is also a great platform – though it’s smaller and really best for photos and content like infographics.

• A well-run practice makes use of all its resources. Use your staff. Ask all who are willing to own a topic and a specific day each week to post on Facebook and/or write a monthly blog. You want to post to Facebook at least five days a week – if not seven.

• Finally, make sure your website has eye appeal. Make good use of photography and fonts – and make sure site navigation is simple and very easy to follow.

• Promote your social media sites and blogs to your clients and the community at large, and encourage them to post comments and questions.

ADD IN SOCIAL MEDIA

So what’s your key take away from this article? First, remember and take heart from the fact that there’s a burgeoning market for holistic veterinary services. To reach this growing market, however, you must make sure you understand the new tools that are crucial to practice growth – and use them well.

Once you have a well-designed, well-written website, you need to add social media to your marketing mix. Social media is a powerful new marketing tool that allows practice owners to build and nurture personal relationships with pet owners,

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Product Profile

MANAGING

dermatological conditions

By Naomi Kirby, DVM, MS

The standard treatment for many dermatological issues involves the use of systemic corticosteroids and/or antibiotics. Topical therapy is also used concurrently with oral treatments, or even exclusively, based on the severity of the pet’s condition.

Treatment with medicated shampoos is a vital part of treating dermatitis cases, and determining which shampoo to use becomes an important part of the healing process.

ZYMOX® is a line of enzymatic products with proven antibacterial, antifungal, anti-yeast properties¹. They include a shampoo, conditioning rinse, topical spray and cream, and the flagship product, ZYMOX Otic.

Enhance therapeutic outcome In cases of severely raw, irritated or infected skin, the Enzymatic Rinse can be applied at full strength directly to affected areas, providing extended contact of ingredients with the coat and skin. Its unique formulation provides easy application and leaves no oily or sticky residue on the hair.

The topical spray works well for localized infections. No pre-cleaning or disinfecting of the affected area is required.

It can be applied without having to touch the skin.

Using ZYMOX Enzymatic Shampoo with Enzymatic Rinse has been shown to be beneficial in the management of the pruritic animal as well as moist pyoderma, allergic skin, infections due to staphylococcus, pseudomonas, malassezia or candida (and in cases of post-treatment for demodex mange when irritation is still present)1.

The patented LP3 Enzyme System in all ZYMOX products works synergistically with a lock and key-type function, by targeting the microbes that contribute to infection and gently washing away environmental irritants without stripping off natural oils.

The products contain no harsh chemicals, detergents, chlorines or chlorhexidine.

The Enzymatic Shampoo, which contains natural plant surfactants, only requires five minutes of contact time versus ten or more minutes with most other shampoos. The Enzymatic Rinse can be lightly washed off or used as a leave-in conditioner and gently patted dry with a towel.

Dr. Naomi Kirby is the Technical Services Manager at PKB Animal Health (pkbanimalhealth.com). She can be reached at nkirby@petkingbrands.com.

The topical cream with catheter tip is recommended for hard to reach spots such as inter-digital areas or skin folds.

In addition to the ZYMOX range of antimicrobial properties, the topical cream and spray have also demonstrated efficacy in eradicating methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)².

¹ Atwal, Rajvinder PhD. “In vitro Antimicrobial Activity Assessment of ZYMOX Otic Solution Against a Broad Range of Microbial Organisms”. Intern J Appl Res in Vet Med, 2003. ² Atwal, Rajvinder PhD. “In vitro Antimicrobial Activity Assessment of ZYMOX Topical (Cream and Spray) Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)”. Intern J Appl Res Vet Med, 2009.

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RABIES VACCINOSIS IN HORSES

By Cynthia Lankenau, DVM

O

ver the past two decades, we have seen the spread of a rabies epidemic in the raccoon population of New York State. It prompted the state to airdrop oral rabies vaccine for the wildlife. Now, yearly rabies immunization are required by the state for any mammal (dogs still only need three-year vaccines) – including horses – to be allowed on public lands and fairgrounds. Since this increased immunization has been implemented in our equine companions, I have seen a large escalation in a multitude of problems. The purpose of this article is to explore the entangled chronic disease that has resulted from the practice of rabies immunization in the horse.

SYMPTOMS OF EQUINE RABIES Rabies is a terrible disease, caused by a Rhabdovirus, genus Lyssavirus. The natural physical disease is contracted from a bite of an infected animal which transmits the virus via saliva to the blood system of an individual. Symptoms in horses often begin with mutilation at the site of the bite.

• Horses tend to be unusually alert and tense and seem to be listening to unheard sounds.

• There is often genital excitement, a desire to escape, to break lead and cross-ties.

• As with the dog, there are bizarre cravings such as for wood and manure.

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• There can be viciousness, first towards strangers, then to family and often with bizarre vocalizations.

• Often, horses are unable and even unaware enough to blink, creating a dry eye with corneal ulcers.

• They can develop a squeakier neigh.

• Cluster respirations can develop.

• Paralysis often starts in the muscles of the head and neck, leading to inability to swallow food or water, and the lower jaw hanging with ropey saliva.

• There can be seizures, then posterior weakness and paralysis leading to recumbency.

• Death often follows paralysis.

RABIES’ ROOTS LIE IN ANIMAL DOMESTICATION AND HUMAN CIVILIZATION Knowing the history of rabies is essential to understanding the spiritual/energetic development of this disease. Rabies is one of the most ancient animal diseases. It has been known for at least 4,000 years in the Middle East, and from there it spread to Asia and Europe, coinciding with where the first domestication of animals is thought to have occurred. The dog seems to have been domesticated around 10,000 B.C. Rabies was never seen to spread into the natural world; instead, it followed the path of civilization. In her book, Animals, Disease, and Human Society, Joanna Swabe states that domestication caused irretrievable loss of genetic diversity and evolutionary autonomy. Historian William H. McNeil states that “increasing human manipulation and control of the natural world resulted in the disturbances of the ecological basis.” Both indicate that domestication and the subsequent abnormal concentration of animals with modified and restricted genetic material is the greatest cause of disease in our animals and ourselves. When civilization broke with natural law, it initiated the onset of disease in animals.

Rabies was present in Greece circa 800 B.C. Hippocrates is said to have cured rabies with boxwood. Rabies was not seen in China until

the 1800s, and there was no rabies in the New World until it was brought over by the colonists. It was first reported in 1703 in Mexico, but did not spread widely until the Gold Rush. Again, the truly fascinating aspect of rabies is that its spread accompanied the expansion of Western civilization. It never preceded Western civilization into any area.

RABIES VACCINATION AND DISEASE STATES Rabies was a severe problem in 1800s Europe. In 1842, at the Veterinary College at Lyon, 62 of 104 deaths were due to rabies. Pasteur’s work was met with doubts but also great hopes. He never felt he was curing his patients of rabies; he realized he was just prolonging the incubation period. He hoped to prolong the IVC Spring 2014

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incubation period to last the entire lifetime of the individual that was being vaccinated.

J. Compton Burnett (a homeopathic doctor) discusses the creation of a chronic disease state from vaccination in Vaccinosis and its Cure by Thuja: “For in vaccinating a person we are diseasing him; we communicate vaccinosis to him.” Hence it follows that the protective power of vaccination is due to a diseased state of the body. Ill-effects from immunization were noted immediately.

In 1888, Dr. Paul Remlinger recognized paralysis after rabies inoculations. Hagan’s Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals states that “many of these reactions in animals are mild and transient, but others may result in permanent damage. The signs generally do not appear sooner than five days after vaccination and sometimes considerably later. The paralysis may involve only a few muscles.

Frequently this occurs in the extremity in which the vaccine was injected. Sometimes the paralysis gradually extends and death finally results. The signs are the result of a demyelinating process which occurs in the brain or spinal cord, or both.”

Dr. Richard Pitcairn wrote: “We can expand our definition to say that vaccinosis is the establishment of, instead of the acute natural disease, a chronic condition which now has the time to develop a multitude of manifestations not ordinarily seen.”

VACCINOSIS IN HORSES Chronic symptoms caused by rabies vaccine in horses can include: • Chronic choke, (acute choke would be paralysis of the muscles of deglutition with concurrent spasms in the throat) • Eye problems – uveitis or Keratitis sicca • Compulsive behaviors like wood chewing in the stall and tree chewing (acute would be bizarre cravings) • Cardiac symptoms including inflammation of the heart muscle, disturbed heart function, and heart failure • Immediate vaccine reaction involving the vasculature results in laminitis and may progress into significant cardiac dysfunction.

• Chronic Obstructed Pulmonary Disease (a chronic form of the cluster breathing in rabid animals) • Lameness issues including pain, stiffness, weakness and paralysis (acutely – posterior paresis and paralysis from neck to extremities) • Wide plethora of emotional and mental disturbances (acute – restlessness, uneasiness, aggressiveness with sound and light sensitivity)

CONCLUSION Rabies was one of the first diseases reported in animals. It was created from the energy of discord that arose when Western

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CASE STUDIES

H

orses today are stressed in many ways: limited herd bonding, chemically treated feeds, pharmaceutical usage, limited natural forage and more. How do we know the true etiology of any chronic illness? In the following cases, all have rabies titers at a pathological level, a history of never being well since being immunized for rabies, and a curative reaction from one of the homeopathic medicines listed in the Mind; Hydrophobia rubric (a symptom followed by a list of remedies known to impact that symptom in the repertory, the homeopathic index of symptoms). Thus we can deduce that increased wellness was due to addressing the negative impact from the rabies vaccine.

The following are examples of horses affected by the rabies vaccine. They show a variety of symptoms and recovered with homeopathic remedies known to help rabies vaccinosis. More details of their cases will appear in a future edition of IVC Journal.

1. Choke Domi is a 12-year-old Thoroughbred living in a hunterjumper stable and who requires yearly “spring shots” including annual rabies. Over the past years, Domi had become so fearful and nervous that his owner was afraid to ride him. Domi’s Rabies titer was very high (1:2400 drawn 3/20/08 RF8-3211-1). He developed a peculiar symptom: after his stall was mucked out, if there were any remaining manure balls, he would fastidiously place them on his stall door. He was also terrified if anyone climbed up on the outside of his stall wall.

On March 3, 2009, after the excitement of a few other horses leaving for their first spring show, Domi choked during the night feeding. The episode resolved spontaneously after ten minutes, but recurred the following night. Domi was given Arsenicum album 30C twice a day for five days. During that time, he stopped eating his manure and placing his fecal balls on the stall door, and had no more episodes of choke. Arsenicum album was given because of these peculiar habits, his fears and sensitivities, and the acute episode of choke. It is also listed in Mind; Hydrophobia rubric.

civilization broke natural law. The pollution or stain done to the animals that associated closely with man was the disease state of rabies. It covers a wide range of disease tendencies that are now very deep-seated.

I saw Domi on May 1, 2009, and it was remarkable how calm and quiet he was. Over the past four years, Domi has had no rabies immunizations and has become a calm riding horse.

2. Laminitis The inflammation of the heart muscle seen in rabies commonly presents itself in horses as acute laminitis, which can then progress to a more chronic form with a taut pulse, elevated heart rate and blood stagnation in the jugular vein.

The first case I ever saw of rabies vaccine-induced laminitis with subsequent heart weakness was in my own horse Hasufel. In 1986, I gave him a rabies vaccination. Two days later, he had bounding pulses in both front feet and was unable to move. He had severe laminitis and suffered from a significant rotation of his coffin bone.

The number of cases I see of rabies vaccine-induced laminitis is staggering. Most are subclinical with mild pulses in the forefeet and slight stiffness, so the owners remain unaware. Charisma, a 25-year-old Morgan, had a bounding digital pulse after a rabies vaccination in 2007.

She quickly recovered with one dose of Lyssin 200c. Lyssin is an energetic preparation of rabid dog saliva.

In September 1977, the Six Nations (Iroquois) presented a paper to the Non-Governmental Organization of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. “The original instructions direct that we who walk about on the Earth are to express a great respect, and affection, and a gratitude toward all the spirits which create and support Life…” the paper said.

Specifically, it spoke of the domestication of animals and manipulation of the earth in agriculture as a break from the natural law, leading to future problems.

With the development of a prophylactic rabies vaccination, we infected our canine companions and feline friends with a subacute form of the disease, which many believe has given rise to a plethora of new syndromes. Now the same is happening with our equine companions. It is a dire situation with no easy answers, but holistic options can help many individual animals whose caregivers choose this approach.

References Baer, George. The Natural History of Rabies, 2nd edition.

Bradford, MD, Thomas. The Lesser Writings of C.M.F. von Boenninghausen. B.Jain Publishers,1921.

Bruner and Gillespie. Hagan’s Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, 6th edition. Cornell University Press, 1977.

Burnett, J. Compton. Vaccinosis and Its Cure by Thuja. B.Jain Publishers, 1921.

Carr-Gomm, Phillip and Stephanie. The Druid Animal Oracle. Simon & Schuster, Inc., 1994.

3. Paresis and paralysis

Chitkara, HL. The Best of Burnett, B. Jain Publishers, 1921.

Othello had an initial paretic reaction to rabies vaccine, then developed musculoskeletal and behavior problems that rendered him dangerous. After six years of homeopathic treatment (and no rabies vaccines), he was safe to be handled. Ten years later, a gum issue responded easily to a few doses of homeopathic remedies, and his owner is still happily riding him at age 36.

DeLahunta, Alexander. Veterinary Neuroanatomay and Clinical Neurology. W.B. Saunders Co., 1977.

CeeCee became very paretic with other symptoms, recovered with treatment, and is still being ridden at age 35.

Euthanasia was avoided thanks to holistic treatment of the penile paralysis and UTI that occurred after rabies vaccine.

Schroyens, Dr. Frederik. Synthesis: Repertorium Homeopathicum Syntheticum. Homeopathic Book Publishers, 2004.

Narcolepsy is now dramatically on the rise in horses. Sierra was cured with homeopathy and is now 34 years old.

Notes, Akwesasne. A Basic Call to Consciousness, Book Publishing Company, 1991.

Dudgeon, RE. Lesser Writings of Samuel Hahnemann, B.Jain Publishers, 1921.

O’Reilly, Wenda. Organon of the Medical Art by Samuel Hahnemann, 6th edition. Birdcage Books, 1996.

Pitcairn, Richard. “A New Look at the Vaccine Question”. AHVMA Annual Conference Proceedings, 1993.

Proceedings of the 2009 Annual Conference of the AHVMA, page 177.

Theodorides, Jean. “Rabies in Byzantine Medicine”. Dumbarton Oaks Papers, Vol. 38, 1984: pp.149-158.

Vermeulen, Frans. Concordant Materia Medica. Emryss bv Publishers, 1997.

Webster, Charles. Paracelsus: Medicine, Magic and Mission at the End of Time, TJ International Ltd, 2008.

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LYME DISEASE in the equine

By Joyce Harman DVM, MRCVS yme disease (LD) was first recognized in 1975. It is now the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in the US and Europe, and is also found in Asia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed more than 35,000 reported human cases by 2008. The actual numbers are likely much higher, as many cases go unreported. Most cases are concentrated in about 15 states, mostly on the east coast from Virginia north. However, it can be found almost everywhere, so consider Lyme part of any rule-out list.

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Integrative treatment offers the best hope for a return to health and performance.

Lyme spirochetes – clever opportunists The Lyme spirochete (Borrelia burgdorferi) is a very mobile, corkscrew-shaped bacteria. In nature, the cycle of life involves Ixodes ricinus ticks on the east coast, with other species used by the bacteria in other parts of the US and the world. Contrary to popular belief, deer are far from the only host for infected ticks, as each tick species prefers different hosts.

Continued on page 52.

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Continued from page 51.

Many small mammals are also part of the host cycle, from the white-footed mouse (the main species in the northeast) to the chipmunk, hedgehog and rat, along with humans and dogs. Nymph stage ticks are the source of most infections, although the adult tick is a little larger and easier to see.

Spirochetes possess separate plasmids (DNA strands) and have an inner and an outer protein coat, which is unusual in the bacterial world. The outside coat that contacts the host organism can adapt to whichever species the spirochete has infected.

There are many different outer surface protein coats, called OSPs, and different portions of them are up-regulated while the tick is eating its blood meal, even before the spirochete enters the body.

A compound called decorin essentially hides the outer layer of the spirochete from the host immune system so that it can enter the body undetected. The spirochetes can then change themselves in a variety of ways so the immune system does not have one single thing to respond to. The spirochete cells also communicate among themselves and exchange information to evade antibiotics, an event that also occurs with other resistant bacteria.

While in the body, the spirochetes continue to alter their structure from moment to moment. This probably contributes to the variety of symptoms as well as the resistance to treatment.

Spirochetes seem to prefer certain types of cell, particularly collagen. This means that the joints, the aqueous humor of the eye, meninges of the brain, skin collagen and heart tissue (less so in the equine for an unknown reason) are all more susceptible to damage. Spirochetes actually travel faster in collagen then they do in the bloodstream. In Chinese medicine (TCVM), the Liver governs the collagen, sinews, tendons and ligaments, so one of the most important factors in Chinese treatment will be to support the Liver.

Infection with Lyme causes an imbalance in the Th1 and Th2 immune complexes. In the case of a healthy immune response, the T helper cells (Th1) produce type I cytokines such as interleukin-2, tumor necrosis factor-beta and interferon gamma, which have a side effect of inflammation. Th2 lymphocytes produce the cytokines interleukin (IL) 4, 5, 6, 10 and 13, which essentially help cool down the inflammation from the Th1 response. If these responses are out of balance, the spirochete can win the battle.

The spirochetes are clever opportunists, and respond to an assault from an antibiotic or the immune system by: • changing their protective surfaces • entering a cell

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• forming a protective coating inside the cell • creating completely different forms: o cysts that can go dormant, then re-activate when conditions are conducive to their reproduction o blebs, which are partial pieces of material that are shed, perhaps to confuse the immune system o Spheroblastic L-forms o Antibiotic treatments especially seem to change the spirochetes into abnormal motile forms, which can be a cyst or a spheroblastic L-form.

Lyme disease appears to actually suppress the body’s natural killer cells (NK), the cytotoxic lymphocytes critical to the innate immune system. Clinically, many horses in the later stages of Lyme disease mount a poor immune response, seen in low white cell counts on a traditional CBC. It is my personal thinking that this is one reason behind the common incidence of low to equivocal Lyme titers.

The longer Lyme spirochetes are in the body prior to treatment, the more adjusted they become to the specific immune situation in that host. For example, spirochetes may stay in the synovial lining of a joint, then evade the immune system or antibiotic by entering the synovial cells. Once the antibiotics are out of the system or the immune system is weakened, the spirochetes re-enter the joint.

Diagnosis is challenging A combination of thorough medical history (most important) along with a complete physical exam and blood work are required. In many cases, horses have been worked up for subtle lameness and have not responded well to traditional treatments such as joint injections and various antiinflammatories. Diagnostic imaging may be inconclusive, or may point to joint inflammation yet treatment of that inflammation yields poor results.

Laboratory diagnosis: This can be very difficult, even in humans where testing is significantly more sophisticated. This is partly due to the cleverness and changeability of the spirochete, and partly because the tests are not good enough yet. The test from Cornell University gives the best range of values, yet some horses still test negative, while showing typical Lyme symptoms and responding well to treatment.

Holistic diagnosis: Since Lyme disease has many manifestations, there is no single clear-cut pattern as seen from a holistic perspective.

From a homeopathic approach, one needs to take a complete history and prescribe a constitutional remedy based on the animal’s presentation.

Most horses can be returned to full performance, even with chronic Lyme disease, but many will require ongoing maintenance.

From a Chinese perspective, the Liver is the organ most affected, directly and indirectly, by the spirochete. Many horses will exhibit signs of Liver dysfunction, though there is seldom one pattern for all horses. Wind invasion is common and many symptoms are related to that, with shifting signs. There may be Liver Qi Stagnation, Liver Heat rising, Liver Yin deficiency, Liver Blood deficiency and so on. These may be combined with other patterns, often made more complex by long-term drug use.

The real key is to approach each case as an individual, from your perspective and experience, and treat what is in front of you. It may change from month to month as well as from year to year.

No approved vaccines for horses There are no Lyme vaccines approved for use in the horse.

Canine vaccines are being used, but it is my experience that this is very detrimental to the equine immune system, with many horses relapsing post-vaccination. This was the experience with a human Lyme vaccine that was removed from the market about three years after it was approved. Most horses do not seem able to handle any vaccines well once they have Lyme disease.

Since we generally do not want to vaccinate in the face of an infection, there may never be a good time to give a Lyme vaccine.

Lyme disease is difficult to detect and may be asymptomatic or go unrecognized for a long time, so many horses have been vaccinated while already harboring the disease. Most people desiring to vaccinate are living in endemic areas; consequently, the horses are likely to be infected. I do not recommend the Lyme vaccine for horses.

Best treatment approach is integrative The best approach to treating Lyme is truly integrative. Most good human practitioners use antibiotics along with many immune supplements. The real key to treating Lyme is to help the immune system become as strong as possible – not just during the immediate treatment but over the long term. Due to

Symptoms of

Lyme in horses The most commonly seen symptoms are nonspecific lameness, shifting leg lameness, stiffness, poor performance, reluctance to turn, poor jumping performance, etc.

Arthritic attacks may be periodic, and may wax and wane, being worse at full moon. Studies have shown that the primary factor leading to arthritic inflammation is immune system health, so the waxing and waning may relate to the immune system’s response. Spirochete levels have been found to be irrelevant to the disease’s severity.

Behavior changes are common in horses, and include: • irritability • fatigue • dullness • lack of interest in work or surroundings • stubbornness or perceived stubbornness • hyperactivity • easily spooked The characteristic bull’s-eye skin lesion is generally missing in the equine and dog, most likely due to their hair coat.

Lyme’s ability to “recur”, the immune system must be ready to go to work at a moment’s notice.

Part of the difficulty in treating Lyme disease is that the bug selectively adapts to the individual’s body, so what works well in one horse may or may not work as well in another. This becomes a real challenge with merely conventional treatment.

However, TCVM and homeopathy always treat each individual differently, so they can be very useful in dealing with this adaptogenic disease.

1. Antibiotics In the acute stages, and usually upon initial diagnosis, we generally begin with oral doxycycline. Intravenous tetracycline does have research that proves it works better, but clinically, many horses seem to respond just as well to doxycycline.

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therapy can be difficult in many situations. If the situation allows, it can be beneficial to start directly with intravenous treatment. Other antibiotics such as minocycline are being used, with some horses responding better to one or the other.

the individual, are the most curative in this author’s experience, and the most economical. Many nutritional compounds are more supportive in nature, but can nevertheless be critical to overall success.

2. Complementary therapies

Fortunately, a few useful compounds are relatively inexpensive: • Vitamin C •N oni (Morinda citrifolia) contains many antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory compounds. Studies have shown it is particularly effective for many forms of arthritis, and is also a very good immune regulator. In the fruit leather or powdered form, it is relatively inexpensive; in the juice form it can be quite costly and contains a significant amount of sugar.

•O mega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory as well as supportive to the immune system. They can be obtained through feeding whole flaxseed (inexpensive), or naturally stabilized ground flax, hemp or Chia seeds (a very stable source of Omega 3s).

•M edicinal mushrooms have excellent research showing their positive effects on the immune system with their polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and anti-inflammatory compounds. There is also evidence they are beneficial in various arthritic conditions.

•G lutathione is a powerful antioxidant present in every cell.

It is particularly important in the liver and has some direct anti-inflammatory effects on arthritis. For many horses, this may be one of the key ingredients in treating Lyme disease.

Intravenous glutathione is available and can be given two to three times a week.

Probiotics are an absolute necessity. Antibiotics may very well kill off some of the probiotics along with normal gut flora, but that is why I continue probiotics for several to many months after any antibiotic therapy is finished.

Immune system support is key. Many compounds that positively affect the immune system are very expensive, so consideration needs to be given to the client’s financial concerns. Generally, Chinese herbs and homeopathics, prescribed constitutionally for

Joint support and stress relief Supplements to support joint health are important for any horse that has shown signs of joint-related discomfort. These include glucosamine-based supplements, hyaluronic acid, glycosaminoglycans, and green-lipped mussels. Western herbal anti-inflammatories can also be used. Chinese herbal arthritis formulas, based on the imbalances shown by the patient, can also be useful, particularly if they’re alternated with some of the active Lyme herbs mentioned in the next paragraph. If an herbal formula is being used as the primary Lyme treatment, general joint support is better done through nutritional supplementation to avoid an overload of herbs.

Stress is a huge factor in the horse’s recovery from Lyme disease. Herbs can be used to help counteract this stress. Once horses have recovered and gone back to competition, it is beneficial to maintain them on adaptogenic stress-relieving herbs such as APF or Eleutherococcus (Siberian ginseng). Also important to pay attention to is the amount of rest the horse actually gets at a barn. It has been shown that at many busy barns, horses actually get very little rest and sleep. This adds to stress, which can suppress the immune system.

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Conclusion The treatment of Lyme disease is complex and requires a willingness to keep re-evaluating the patient’s progress. Most horses can be returned to full performance, even with chronic Lyme disease, but many will require ongoing maintenance.

Using individualized medical treatments such as homeopathy and TCVM is key to maximum recovery.

Veterinary Resource Guide ASSISTIVE DEVICES HandicappedPet.com Amherst, NH USA Phone: (603) 577-8858 Website: www.handicappedpets.com Best Friend Mobility Myrtle Beach, SC USA Phone: (503) 575-9407 Email: sylvan@sylvancompany.com Website: www.bestfriendmobility.org

ASSOCIATIONS Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy - AVH Leucadia, CA USA Phone: (866) 652-1590 Website: www.theavh.org American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture - AAVA Glastonbury, CT USA Phone: (860) 632-9911 Email: aava@cttel.net Website: www.aava.org American Veterinary Chiropractic Association - AVCA Bluejacket, OK USA Phone: (918) 784-2231 Email: avcainfo@junct.com Website: www.animalchiropractic.org Association of Veterinary Acupunturists of Canada - AVAC Beaconsfield, QC Canada Phone: (514) 697-0295 Email: office@avac.ca Website: www.avac.ca National Animal Supplement Council - NASC Valley Center, CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.nasc.cc

EQUINE NATUROPATH Cassie Schuster, ND, MH Waller, TX USA Phone: (713) 502-0765 Email: cassie.schuster@yahoo.com Website: www.wellranch.com

INTEGRATIVE VETS Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet East York Animal Clinic Toronto, ON Canada Phone: (416) 757-3569 Email: eyac@ca.inter.net Website: www.holisticpetvet.com

Mark Newkirk, VMD Margate Animal Hospital & Alternative Care Center Egg Harbor Township, NJ USA Toll Free: (609) 645-2120 Phone: (609) 645-2120 Website: www.alternativevet.com Steven Marsden, DVM Edmonton Holistic Veterinary Clinic Edmonton, AB Canada Phone: 780-436-4944

NATURAL PRODUCT

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS GenesisValley Center CA USA Phone: (760) 751-3360 Website: www.genesispets.com

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION Animal Spirit Network Pekin, IL USA Phone: (815) 531-2850 Email: carol@animalspiritnetwork.com Website: www.animalspiritnetwork.com College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies - CIVT Rozelle, NSW Australia Phone: (303) 800-5460 Website: www.civtedu.org

PetMassage Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute Castle Pines, CO USA Phone: (303) 681-3033 Email: nancy@animalacupressure.com Website: www.animalacupressure.com Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine TCVM Reddick, FL USA Phone: (352) 591-5385 Email: register@tcvm.com Website: www.tcvm.com Veterinary Information Network - VIN Davis, CA USA Phone: (530) 756-4881 Email: vingram@vin.com Website: www.vin.com

SUPPLEMENTS Herbsmith Inc. Hartland, WI USA Phone: (262) 367-1372 Email: mail@herbsmithinc.com Website: www.herbsmithinc.com MVP Laboratories Omaha, NE USA Phone: (402) 331-5106 Email: mvplabs@mvplabs.com Website: www.mvplabs.com SmartPak Plymouth, MA USA Phone: (774) 773-1125 Email: customercare@smartpak.com Website: www.smartpak.com The Honest Kitchen San Diego, CA USA Phone: (858) 483-5995 Email: info@thehonestkitchen.com Website: www.thehonestkitchen.com

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

To advertise call Tim Hockley Publisher

(866) 764-1212 ext. 100

Tim@RedstoneMediaGroup.com IVC Spring 2014

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From the AVH The Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy is comprised of veterinarians who share the common desire to restore true health to their patients through the use of homeopathic treatment. Members of the Academy are dedicated to understanding and preserving the principles of Classical Homeopathy.

AVMA votes against resolution to prohibit homeopathy Important and exciting news! The AVMA House of Delegates has voted against a resolution claiming that homeopathy is ineffective and its use should be discouraged.

This resolution was placed before the AVMA in the late fall of 2012 by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association.

The initial reaction in the veterinary community was mixed.

For many, the gut reaction was that the AVMA should not tell veterinarians what treatments they could use. Many recognized that most therapies in conventional veterinary medicine do not match the level of evidence to which this resolution was holding homeopathy.

HOD also voted, with 90.1% against it – effectively putting this resolution to rest.

The AVH will continue its mission of educating the public and veterinary colleagues about the uses, potential and latest research findings in veterinary homeopathy. Our members have been speaking for years and continue to be invited to speak at various National, State and local VMA meetings.

Western Veterinary Conference The AVH shared a booth with the Pitcairn Institute of Veterinary Homeopathy at the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas from February 16 to 20. It was a great way to say “hi” to all our colleagues and talk about veterinary homeopathy.

Annual Case Conference

Most veterinarians were not familiar with homeopathy and many didn’t realize that “homeopathy” is not synonymous with “holistic”. Furthermore, the members of the House of Delegates (HOD) in the AVMA charged with voting on this resolution had been initially introduced to homeopathy via a negative document.

This resolution was submitted by the Connecticut VMA along with a comprehensive paper discrediting homeopathy, and apparently without notification or comment by any veterinary homeopaths in the state.

From September 12 to 14, we will be holding our AVH Annual Case Conference alongside the AHVMA Annual Conference in Portland, Oregon. This opportunity will promote interaction and sharing with the wider complementary veterinary medicine community. Topics will cover homeopathic care for conditions such as cancer, poisonous insect bites, trauma and aid for rescue animals. Even if you are new to homeopathy, the conference will be well worth the trip. Register at www.myAVH.org

The AVH initiated an active role in educating the delegates about homeopathy with the latest research, federal regulation of homeopathic medicines, years of study involved in practicing homeopathy, comprehensive nature of a homeopathic consultation and the highly varied and amazing clinical successes.

(The white papers can be found at www.myAVH.org.)

Our completely revamped website (myavh.org) includes new cases and articles, updates in research findings in homeopathy, easily accessible news updates, and a user-friendly format for mobile devices.

The resolution was put to a second vote at the AVMA 2014 Winter Meeting in January and the reference committee devoted to studying it voted unanimously against it. A few hours later, the

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Website

Facebook page As part of our goal to educate the public and provide veterinary homeopathy outreach, AVH members have the opportunity to share veterinary homeopathy help, cases, news, and updates on our Facebook page at facebook.com/healthypetcare.

”The highest ideal of cure is the rapid, gentle, and permanent restoration of health . . . in the shortest, most reliable and most harmless way . . .”

Samuel Hahnemann, M.D. (1755-1843), founder of homeopathy.

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tech talk

Power PET OWNER to the

By Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH

Want happier clients with healthier pets?

Empower them to play a bigger role in keeping their animals well.

As a technician, you are essential to having happy clients in the practice. Some integrative veterinarians use their vet techs well, and empower them to interact with clients a lot. Others have not taken the time to even think about how their techs can save them time, make more money for the clinic, empower clients and help animals be healthier.

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You can be a constant educator, reminding clients that your clinic, and/or the veterinarians at your clinic, approach healing differently from other veterinarians, or from what clients might see on TV or hear from their dog park friends. Be creative. Put up slogans like: “Build health now for a longer life” or “Love the symptoms, as they are a part of healing”.

Make a list with all the staff and doctors of messages left or calls fielded at night, or what worried clients called about in the morning. When clients chose to go the pet ER, was it for something they could have soothed at home? Add to the list things clients try that is beyond what they should be doing, or that may hinder their pets’ treatment.

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Each of you works in a different type of practice and will need a different approach to training and empowering clients to help them keep their pets healthy (see sidebar on page 62). The real key to success is the initial strategizing and the honest evaluation of the success or failure of different strategies. Plan on at least one meeting a month to be sure you are continuing to empower your clients.

Encourage them to keep a journal A major problem faced by clients is decision making. For example: “Do I need to go to the clinic now? Did I choose the right foods, treatments, flea control or other lifestyle change?” Most clients have been conditioned to want symptoms to resolve quickly but don’t notice other more general changes. At your practice, they are told that the alternative approaches the doctors offer may not quickly resolve the current problem, but will slowly build health. Once home, clients may forget, or their neighbors may tell them their dog’s skin looks so bad they should go to another clinic.

If you can encourage clients to begin a journal, everyone will reap the benefits for years. At the beginning, you and the client (as part of the office visit or pre-appointment) make a master symptom list of all past and current symptoms. Then look for the Early Warning Signs of Internal Imbalance and add those. Encourage the client to do this exam regularly at home. Educate them about cure, palliation and suppression – the body’s reaction to any treatments or lifestyle changes. (I wrote the Healthy Animal’s Journal as well as articles on how clients can create their own journals to facilitate this critically important process.)

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Familiarize them with the Early Warning Signs of Internal Imbalance Many symptoms that animals display represent an underlying energy imbalance, made worse from poor diet and vaccination.

These signs (complete list at theavh.org/petowners/articles. php) include goo/crud in the eyes, waxy ears, red line at the gum margin, doggy odor, vomiting hairballs, thirst in cats, attracting fleas, freckles appearing with age. These lists have been compiled by multiple homeopathic veterinarians over the last 20 years.

Continued on page 60.

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Offer individual technician training sessions for a fee – teach clients how to trim their animals’ nails, brush teeth, feed better diets, etc.

Continued from page 59.

A printed list of these signs can be used when teaching clients how to keep a journal, or can be handed out in the waiting room. It can be used to teach people how much healthier their animals can be. You might also keep a copy in a plastic sleeve in the exam room, so you and the doctor can point out some of the signs you observe.

Teach clients to quantify each symptom and record it in their journals. Most importantly, both you and the owner should quantify the activity level and emotional state of the pet, maybe using a 1-10 scale, on how far the pet walks, “puppy” behavior, etc.

Many clients and veterinarians consider these signs normal, yet as integrative veterinarians cure animals of “disease”, we find these “normal” things go away. Teach clients to not be satisfied with the health of their animals until most of these symptoms are gone. Encourage them to come in for treatments whenever they see any of these signs.

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Help them learn home treatments This can be approached in two ways – soothe specific problems or teaching a method that can then soothe multiple problems.

Reiki: This is my favorite modality for everyone to learn.

Other less common energy channeling methods that are 100% safe include reconnective therapy, quantum touch, or Healing Touch for Animals (HTA). Reiki instructors can be found all over the country. Reiki is a method of channeling universal healing energy through your hands. It is effective for pain relief and wound healing, and can be used to decrease damage from drugs by doing Reiki on the drugs, or to shift the vibration of food so some anorexic animals will eat…and much more.

Offer classes in your clinic, or create a partnership with a Reiki instructor in your area. The only difference between using Reiki on animals or people is that we recommend “offering” the Reiki rather than “giving” it. Kathleen Prasad (animalreikisource.com) has webinars for Reiki-trained people wanting to work on their animals.

Flower Essences: These are also totally safe. We all know the power of Rescue Remedy, so encourage every client to

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have it in their purses, pockets, car and home. Other flower essences, whether single or in combination, are totally safe and can be selected by the clinic or the client. Teach clients how to dilute the remedies and how to let animals select them. At the computer station in your clinic, bookmark YouTube videos on how to use them. Have flower essence books on hand from all the companies you buy from.

Some of my favorite essences include Vaccine Detox and ParaOutta-Site from Spirit Essences; Flee Free and Spraying from Green Hope Farms; V, B and F from Perelandra; and Happy Feet and Lick Granuloma from Anaflora.

You can sell amber or blue dropper bottles to make up the dilutions, and sell the flower essence with a card saying how to dilute it (4 drops in 1 ounce of water). Between Reiki and Rescue Remedy, panic in your clients should decrease by 50%.

TTouch: This is particularly good for patients with any behavior or training issues. Host TTouch classes at your clinic, or demonstrate a technique during an office visit. Almost any ill animal can benefit from one of the many TTouch strokes or circles.

Acupressure: Four Paws, Five Directions and Acu-Cat, Acu-Dog or Acu-Horse give specific acupressure techniques and point instructions for animal illnesses. Having videos or YouTube links on hand, giving individual demonstrations (for example, show appetite stimulation points for anorexic animals) and offering books to borrow or buy will greatly help owners deal with many problems at home.

Continued on page 62.

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Continued from page 60.

Essential oils and herbs: These may have side effects, so you want to provide a handout on how to safely use each one you sell. Many combination herbs for specific problems can be sold at the practice. For example, Animal Apawthecary’s Tinkle Tonic and others; D’Arcy Naturals’ combination of Western and Chinese herbs for specific conditions; and others that you’ll learn of at conferences and from the veterinarians in your clinic. Have pictures of herbs on display, or even grow some of the more common herbs to get people interested. Continue to remind clients that we merely using herbs to stimulate the body to heal itself, not as drugs that need to be given for life.

16 ways

to empower your clients

q Encourage clients to keep a journal to track changes in symptoms, new symptoms, and treatments.

w Encourage them to frequently evaluate their pets for the Early Warning Signs of Internal Imbalance.

e Help clients learn modalities they can use at home: a) Reiki (or reconnective therapy, quantum touch, Healing Touch for Animals) b) Flower essences c) Aromatherapy d) Herbs e) Tellington TTouch

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Provide them with home treatment plans

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Use the internet for education and communication

f) Acupressure g) Homeopathic remedies

r Give clients home treatment plans for specific problems such as:

a) Skin and itching b) Fleas and ticks c) Litter box problems

List books that you can sell or loan on any condition seen frequently in your practice (itching, fleas, ticks, digestive issues, etc). Teach a few home treatments in your clinic or offer them for purchase.

There are multiple ways to use the computer, the internet and social media as part of your client education program.

d) Appetite problems and pica e) Any others you see in your practice regularly

t Use social media to keep clients updated, and so they can talk with each other.

y Create special support groups for animals with serious ailments.

u Sponsor regular classes on home treatment modalities. i Create a client education corner in the waiting area with a computer, books, TV, magazines, etc.

o Create a lending library.

Create multiple client sharing spaces – e.g., bulletin a boards, photo books, chat rooms.

s Produce monthly (or more frequent) e-newletters. d Have a website with articles that clients can refer to in the middle of the night.

f Blog regularly on the website.

Suggest that clients subscribe to health magazines g such as Animal Wellness (AW) or Equine Wellness (EW).

(When you become an AW / EW Affiliate, for example, you can earn cash for every subscription purchased by your clients. Email Natasha@redstonemediagroup.com or call (866) 764-1212 ext 315, for more info and to register – it only takes 2 minutes.)

h Offer individual technician training sessions for a fee – teach clients how to trim their animals’ nails, brush teeth, feed better diets, etc.

j Keep asking in multiple ways what your clients want and need.

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•Y our website can be consulted in lieu of calling the emergency clinic. Have handouts on your website that are easy to search for in the wee hours of the morning.

As an example, “a little blood goes a long way” reminds clients not to panic if they see blood in the stool, urine or vomit. You can also offer information on gentle treatments (Reiki, flower essences, acupressure, etc.) that could be used until the clinic opens next day. Think about products people have around the house that could be utilized for problem in addition to Reiki and Rescue Remedy. The wonderful lectures at AHVMA conferences will give you plenty of information.

• Webinars and online classes can be created for any topics requested by your clients. Maybe you could do a weekly webinar on feeding fresh foods – how to prepare them, find sources, etc.

• Also very useful are links to local resources such as kennels, grooming facilities, trainers, agility classes, raw meat sources, community supported agriculture farms, farmer markets, etc. Add anything your clients keep asking about.

Be sure that whoever you link to reciprocates.

• A big key in empowering clients to focus on the goal of complete health rather than merely eliminating symptoms is through constant reminders. Social media, blogs and newsletters can keep this goal always in front of them.

• Use the internet to get clients excited about health. Rather than promoting “dental month” or “time for flea and heartworm prevention”, you might have contests for the biggest improvements in health, the shiniest coat after a diet change, or the number of Early Warning Signs that have resolved in the shortest time. If this is starting to sound like a lot of work, consider this: if there are seven people working the clinic, and each one posts one day a week, it’s not too much.

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Once your clinic has decided to begin empowering clients to help their animals more at home, have a meeting to set your goals and list the next steps. Have monthly meetings thereafter to assess your current status and set new goals.

Post client feedback in the break room or read it at your meetings to keep the excitement rolling.

Offer training sessions and classes Part of improving an animal’s health and keeping him healthy is empowering the client to do the physical Early Warning Signs exam, trim nails and hair, and clean eyes, teeth, ears, feet, etc.

With your help, most clients can do much more than they ever thought possible. Group classes and individual sessions can help teach these skills. Any time a client says, “I just can’t do (fill in the blank)”, tell them when a training class will be held, or create a new class on this topic.

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From the VBMA The Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association is a group of veterinarians and herbalists dedicated to developing responsible herbal practice by encouraging research and education, strengthening industry relations, keeping herbal tradition alive as a valid information source, and increasing professional acceptance of herbal medicine for animals.

Did you guess last issue’s medicinal herb?

In the Winter issue of IVC Journal, we tested your herbal knowledge with a picture of Joe Pye weed, Eupatorium purpureum.

It’s also called Gravel Root because it grows in gravelly soil at the intersection of water and land – and its most famous use is to dissolve “gravel” in the body.

This plant excels at keeping minerals from precipitating out of solution to produce arthritic deposits and kidney stones. It can dissolve calcareous material and also help produce a diuretic action to pass gravel. Thus it possesses anti-lithic, anti-rheumatic and diuretic properties. The rhizome and root are the parts used medicinally.

Cook described it in 1869 as “largely relaxant, with very moderate stimulating properties; its chief influence is expended upon the kidneys, bladder, and uterus; and it impresses the nerves of the whole sympathetic nervous system; where it promotes the flow of water, soothes irritation and is especially beneficial in cases of reddish and reddish-brown urine.”

Case study T.K. is a six-year-old pinto stallion who developed a bladder paresis shortly after a rabies immunization. Although he could urinate, he retained a large volume of urine. He developed severe secondary cystitis with “red sand”. His urine contained a large amount of crystals with blood.

homestead in Batesville, Indiana. This sacred land of pristine nature has been preserved from encroaching development, and is the perfect setting to learn from this fabled duo, and each other.

September sees an exciting lineup for our speaker track at the AHVMA conference. Jeffrey C. Yuen comes from two Daoist lineages and is recognized internationally as a master scholar, teacher and practitioner of Classical Chinese Medicine. He will be speaking on essential oils.

Our second speaker is Kevin Spelman, PhD. He is currently a consultant at Health, Education and Research in Botanical Medicines (HERB Med), an Adjunct Professor at Bastyr University, California, and Distinguished Lecturer at Maryland University of Integrative Health. Kevin will spend a day discussing Ayurvedic herbal medicines and will also be leading our Herb Walk.

Next issue: our Eco-Tour Report from Hawaii!

Go to our website at vbma.org to check out all our activities and teleconferences.

NAME THIS HERB!

He was placed on a combination of Gravel Root, Corn Silk, Uva Ursi and Marshmallow. With herbal protection for his bladder and kidney, and some additional homeopathic care, T.K. regained full bladder function within three weeks. The cystitis resolved with no further complication.

Report on our activities We are excited to present three teleseminars this year. The first is in February, with Dr. Steve Marsden discussing “Herbal formulas for the Spring Season”. In May, Dr. Rob Silver, and in November, Dr. Joyce Harman, will be discussing Lyme disease. All past teleseminars can be purchased on the VBMA website.

The Haverkos Herb Walk Weekend takes place May 16 to 18.

Two leaders in the field, Cheryl Schwartz and Matt Wood, will be speaking for the first time in 20 years at the Haverkos family

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Hint

These are flower blossoms on a tree!

Join the VBMA at vbma.org to find out. The answer will also be published in the next issue of IVC Journal.

marketplace

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events Individualized Analog Medicine Courses

Ongoing Analog medicine is an integrated amalgam of several different alternative medical modalities. It shows exactly how integration can be effectively accomplished and demonstrates its many benefits. This is a course for those individuals who want to go beyond the bounds of classic material medicine to explore the science and art of holistic healing. This is a four or five day course, in a rural Idaho setting, for very small groups or individuals on the fundamentals of integrated holistic healing. Contact Dr. Ronald Hamm to schedule your course.

For more information: Dr. Ronald Hamm (208) 427-6233 analogdr@ida.net

AAVMC Annual Conference

March 12 - 16, 2014 – Alexandria, VA The theme of this year’s conference is Diversity and Inclusion: Excellence in Institutional Planning, Teaching, and Assessment in Veterinary Medical Education.

You will find an excellent line up of sessions on topics such as campus climate and culture, diversity in food supply, veterinary medicine, leadership, and clinical assessment. You will also have the opportunity to convene with worldwide leaders in academic veterinary medicine, and share in the discussions that shape the future of the profession.

For more information: (202) 371-9195 lsmith@aavmc.org www.aavmc.org

American Animal Hospital Association Annual Conference

March 20 - 23, 2014 – Nashville, TN This year there is a refreshing line-up of new and unique continuing education, along with some of the educational staples you’ve always loved from AAHA. This is the only veterinary conference that focuses exclusively on companion animal care and you’ll receive top education and exceptional networking.

For more information: (800) 883-6301 aaha@aahanet.org www.aahanet.org/AahaNashville2014

Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Spring Symposium

March 23 – 27, 2014 – Big Island, HI VECCS is committed to offering its members the highest quality of Continuing Education regardless of venue.

This year’s symposium will be held at the JW Marriott Cancun Beach Resort and Spa. There will be plenty of time between lecture sessions to

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P o st y o u r even t o n l in e at: IVCJournal.com enjoy endless white sandy beaches, sailing, reef diving, inland tours to Aztec ruins and more.

Featured speakers include Dr. Erica Reinke, DVM, DACVECC and Dr. Matt Mellema, DVM, DACVECC as well as other professionals that will also be contributing to the program.

Be sure to register early since there is limited registration for VECCS members-only.

For more information: (800) 948-3227 info@veccs.org www.2014springce.iveccs.org

129th CVMA Annual Meeting & Convention

April 1 - 2, 2014 – Hartford, CT At this meeting and convention you will find a variety of different programs offered including the Small Animal Practitioners Program covering feline and canine lower urinary tract disease as well as the Large Animal Practitioners Program, Practice Management Program and Technician/Assistant Program.

For more information: (860) 635-7770 info@ctvet.org www.ctvet.org

2014 North American Veterinary Dermatology Forum

April 9 - 12, 2014 – Phoenix, AZ Don’t miss this opportunity to gain the most upto-date information on veterinary dermatology.

This event features world renowned speakers, roundtables, workshops, over 20 hours of continuing education and much more. The NAVDF is sponsored by the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology and the American College of Veterinary Dermatology.

For more information: (877) 754-6838 navdf@pamedsoc.org www.navdf.org

Feline Veterinary Dentistry

April 12 -13, 2014 – Orlando, FL This course focuses on the most practical lecture and lab material available for the general practitioner to maximize feline patient care in veterinary dentistry. Please visit our website for more information. 15 hours of RACE accredited Continuing Education.

For more information: Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM 941-268-1019 annielvt@hotmail.com http://veterinarydentistry.net/vets/

Therapeutic Advances in Animal Rehabilitation

April 23 -27, 2014 – Florham Park, NJ The 5th Annual Symposium on Therapeutic Advances in Animal Rehabilitation (STAAR) is a unique conference that provides continuing interactive, practical education for animal rehabilitation professionals.

Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers in an intimate setting. Explore new concepts, techniques, and treatments in rehabilitative medicine, and learn advanced physical therapy skills taught by leaders in the field.

For more information: Ilaria F. Borghese, MS, MA, OT (908) 439-9139 ilaria@therapaw.com www.staarconference.com

2014 Massachusetts VMA Spring CE Conference

May 7, 2014 – Westborough, MA MVMA’s mission is to promote the veterinary profession, improve animal well-being and public health and provide programs and services that enhance the ability of member veterinarians to succeed.

Join the Continuing Education conference in May 2014!

For more information: (508) 460-9333 staff@massvet.org www.massvet.org

CVC Conference for Veterinary Care

May 8 - 12, 2014 – Washington, DC 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, handson labs and workshops, practice management programs, and team training sessions from the award-winning editors and doctors behind DVM Newsmagazine®, Veterinary Medicine®, Veterinary Economics®, Firstline® and dvm360.com.

With expert speakers and exceptional service that is affordable and accessible and offered at 3 convenient locations annually: Washington (DC), Kansas City, and San Diego.

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

Maryland VMA Mid-Atlantic State Veterinary Clinic May 15, 2014 – West Friendship, MD If you are a practitioner of small animal or equine veterinary medicine, this is a premier opportunity for continuing education, business information and networking. There are also educational opportunities for technicians, farriers and students.

For more information: (443) 507-6500 mvma@managementalliance.com www.mdvma.org

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