tag:www.naturalawakenings.com,2005:/categories/natural-pet?page=15Natural Pet Natural Pet | Natural Awakenings Magazine Page 15Healthy Living Healthy Planet2019-08-28T16:11:26-04:00urn:uuid:27f035de-6352-4154-9308-962fc94233b72019-08-28T16:11:26-04:002019-08-28T16:11:26-04:00Detecting Disease: Liver and Adrenal Issues Share Symptoms2013-03-29 11:47:11 -0400Dr. Shawn Messonnier<p>
<span class="dropcap">A</span>drenal and liver diseases can commonly plague pets, with adrenal problems occurring more often in dogs but routinely misdiagnosed, and liver disease more frequently present in cats.</p>
<h3>
Liver Disease</h3>
<p>
This inclusive term is used to describe any disorder of the liver. In both dogs and cats, common causes include toxins, infections, metabolic problems and tumors. In cats, infections and fatty liver disease are more likely, while dogs more often experience infections and tumors. Clinically affected pets are usually anorectic (not eating) and lethargic; in severe cases, jaundice may occur.</p>
<p>
Conventional therapies depend to some extent on the cause, but in general, antibiotics and hospitalization for fluid therapy and forced feeding, often through a stomach tube, are necessary to give the pet the best chances of recovering. Pets with liver cancer are usually diagnosed too late to be a candidate for surgery, unless only one liver lobe is involved, or chemotherapy.</p>
<p>
More gentle natural therapy often results in curing the condition, even in later stages, depending upon the root cause. The herb milk thistle is well known for its ability to heal liver damage. B vitamins, as well as the nutritional supplements comprising S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and phosphatidylcholine, may also be effective treatments.</p>
<h3>
Adrenal Disease</h3>
<p>
Adrenal issues, especially common in middle-aged and older canines, can refer to Addison’s disease or Cushing’s disease—signifying decreased or increased adrenal function, respectively— and are commonly misdiagnosed as liver disease.</p>
<p class="pullquote">
“In my veterinary practice, pets with elevated levels of enzymes indicating liver or adrenal disease are always treated with natural remedies first. In most cases, this treatment is effective and conventional medication is not needed.”<br>
<em>~ Dr. Shawn Messonnier</em>
</p>
<p>
<br>
Addison’s disease, although not prevalent, is often incorrectly diagnosed because its symptoms of reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and weakness are shared with most other diseases. Blood testing can be helpful, but is not always definitive.</p>
<p>
Cushing’s disease is a more common problem. Signs mimic diabetes and kidney disease, including increases in appetite, thirst and urination. Accurate diagnosis requires specialized blood tests and abdominal sonograms.</p>
<p>
Conventional treatment for either disease involves lifelong medication. Natural therapies that work to prevent and alleviate such ailments may involve adrenal glandular supplements, milk thistle and herbs such as licorice (for Addison’s disease) or ginseng and magnolia bark (for Cushing’s disease)</p>
<p>
Regular laboratory testing is important for a pet to allow for early diagnosis and treatment of potentially life-threatening diseases. If a pet develops liver or adrenal disease, combining conventional therapies with natural remedies usually results in successful treatment of the condition.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the award-winning author of </em>The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats<em> and </em>Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets<em>. Visit <a href="http://PetCareNaturally.com">PetCareNaturally.com</a>.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b95a47c9-9146-4c24-9c1a-aed49f5f49c72019-08-28T16:12:02-04:002019-08-28T16:12:02-04:00Holistic is Best: Natural Care for a Sick Pet2013-02-28 12:28:19 -0500Dr. Shawn Messonnier<p>
<span class="dropcap">T</span>he best course of action for any pet that appears to be sick is to see a holistic vet early, before a disease can progress or before the pet has been made even more ill by improper conventional treatment.<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
</p>
<h3>
Downsides of Conventional Treatment</h3>
<p>
Many sick pets brought to a holistic vet’s office may not have been formally diagnosed, even if they’ve been receiving medical treatment by a conventional doctor for weeks or months. In most cases, the standard blanket prescriptions of antibiotics and corticosteroids—regardless of the cause of illness—have failed to produce positive results. Worse, such drugs carry side effects that can make the pet even sicker; indiscriminate use of antibiotics, for example, has led to antibiotic resistance in bacteria, making it harder to treat serious infections when antibiotics are the only viable treatment option.</p>
<p>
So by the time the holistic doctor sees them, the condition of these pets may have worsened. The good news is that with precise diagnosis of the underlying issues, most sickly pets can be treated with good success. Because a holistic approach to healthcare relies on individual factors, the exact treatment will vary according to the patient and situation. A cookiecutter treatment will not be very helpful.</p>
<h3>
Holistic Nutrition Therapy Helps</h3>
<p>
Owners can take several steps to provide relief for a suffering pet right away while awaiting the results of proper diagnostic tests. In my practice, three vet-supervised nutrition therapies have been shown to be effective in stabilizing a sick pet for the 24 to 48 hours needed to return test results before the appropriate treatment can be initiated. Ask the attending veterinarian for other safe, comforting measures he or she likes to recommend.</p>
<p>
First, most sick pets benefit from receiving fluid therapy (intravenous or subcutaneous) in a veterinary hospital. The fluids rehydrate and help detoxify the pet by causing increased urination that flushes out cellular toxins.</p>
<p>
Second, injectable vitamins C and B complex added to the fluids often have a temporary pick-me-up effect, reducing lethargy and improving appetite.</p>
<p>
Third, using supplements selected to restore homeostasis also helps make the pet feel better and encourages healthy eating. I like to use a natural immunity support I developed called Healthy Chi, which contains amino acids, potassium, green tea, ginseng, gotu kola and the herb astragalus. Homeopathic combinations also can be useful; I’ve developed a natural remedy combining gallium, colchicum, hydrastis, anthraquinone and glyoxal.</p>
<h3>
Case Studies Exemplify Success</h3>
<p>
Two recent cases illustrate the benefit of an informed holistic approach. Gus, a 7-year-old male standard poodle, had a history of inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal cancer. He did well immediately following cancer surgery, but then became lethargic and showed a disinterest in food. So, we conducted a fecal analysis and complete blood profile. While awaiting test results, I prescribed the recommended nutrition therapies, along with a special diet. The next morning, the owner reported that Gus was feeling and acting much better, including showing more interest in eating. His owner was pleased with this rapid response and relieved to avoid unnecessary medication.</p>
<p>
A young Persian cat arrived in our office with a chronic herpes virus infection. Percy’s owner made an appointment because the feline had a congested nose and wasn’t eating as much as normal. Natural treatment for the herpes virus began with the amino acid lysine and the herb echinacea, both also helpful in preventing cold and flu. Supportive care for the general malaise and lack of appetite relied on the same recommended nutrition therapies and again resulted in overnight improvements in the pet’s attitude and appetite; the nasal congestion left during the following week.</p>
<p>
While antibiotics and corticosteroids can be helpful in properly diagnosed cases, using natural therapies can provide quick relief without the harmful side effects often seen from the use of conventional medications.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the award-winning author of </em>The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats<em> and </em>Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets<em>. Visit <a href="http://PetCareNaturally.com">PetCareNaturally.com</a>.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:7f4dc1ed-0973-40c9-aecb-4e0f08fc02252019-08-28T16:10:21-04:002019-08-28T16:10:21-04:00Finned and Fascinating: Fish Make Appealing Family Pets2013-01-31 12:02:43 -0500Randy Kambic<p>
<span class="dropcap">F</span>ish aquariums are colorful and wondrous windows to the sea, showcasing continuous movement, yet evoking tranquility. A mainstay in many workplaces, restaurants, hospitals and physicians’ offices, these watery habitats weave their greatest influence when adopted into a home with children.</p>
<p>
The 2011-2012 American Pet Products Association Pet Owner Survey reports that 11.9 million U.S. households now own freshwater fish (another 700,000 have saltwater pets). While exotic species offer great appeal, freshwater fish are less expensive in many cases and require less equipment in terms of pumps and power heads to create water currents. Careful and thoughtful planning can start ownership off in fine finned fashion.</p>
<h3>
Getting Started</h3>
<p>
The number of fish desired should dictate the size of the tank. <a href="http://Hartz.com">Hartz.com</a> suggests one inch of fish for every 1.5 to two gallons in tank size. Mindy Dobrow, owner of Brookline Grooming & Pet Supplies, in Massachusetts, notes, “Most new owners that want to take the hobby seriously get 30to 50-gallon tanks.” She suggests once-daily feedings or, “If you want more interaction with the fish, half as much, twice a day. If you feed at set times, the fish will quickly learn and be ready.” To provide a relaxed environment for aquarium life and reduce algae growth, select a tank location in a low-traffic area, away from windows.<img alt="Blue Yellow Tailed Fish" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/624969/Blue-Fish-Yellow-Tail.jpg" class="image-align-right"></p>
<p>
According to Dobrow, a first freshwater collection of colorful species that usually coexist well could include angelfish, discus, clown loach, African cichlids and fancy goldfish. “They’re all fun and pretty,” she comments.</p>
<p>
Aquarium shop owner Ron Elander, of Octopuss Garden, in San Diego, concurs. For fresh startups, he recommends including several kinds of African cichlids because, “They chase each other around a good deal and are interesting to watch.” He also likes angelfish, which he characterizes as docile and elegant.</p>
<p>
<img alt="Yellow Gold Tropical Fish" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/624970/Yellow-Tropical-Fish.jpg" class="image-align-left">A modern water filtration system is needed to eliminate fish waste and uneaten food that can decay and contaminate the water. Elander warns against showing too much love by overfeeding. “Excess food settles on the bottom, decays and is eaten later; we get sick eating rotten food and so will fish.”</p>
<p>
Make frequent partial water changes—one-third of the total every two to four weeks, depending on the number of fish and tank size, according to Dobrow—because filtering alone cannot do the job.</p>
<p class="pullquote">
An aquarium decorates the house. It’s also constant theater, with the fish being the actors.<br>
<em>~ Ron Elander, owner, Octopuss Garden</em>
</p>
<p>
<br>
Have the household tap water tested for pH (a measure of acidity and alkalinity) in order to know which chemicals are needed to sustain the level between 7.7 and 8.3, again depending on the fish population and tank size. Use LED lights, energy-saving water filters and a heater with built-in thermostat control (to maintain a range between 75° and 82° Fahrenheit) in order to reduce electric utility costs.<img alt="Blue Fish Yellow Fin" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/624971/Blue-Fish-Yellow-Fin.jpg" class="image-align-right"></p>
<p>
Creative decorating atop the tank’s foundational gravel base adds to the fun. Make sure anything manmade, such as a model sunken ship or treasure chest, is obtained from a pet store, so it won’t rust or degrade and contaminate the water. Shells, coral and plants also add to a maritime setting. Remember, the more plants installed, the more light (and electricity) is needed to keep them alive.</p>
<h3>
Health Benefits</h3>
<p>
<a href="http://AnimalPlanet.com">AnimalPlanet.com</a> attests that watching fish lowers respiration and pulse rates, relieves tension and provides relief from stresses. “Children can forge a deep connection and obtain a <img alt="Orange White Fish" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/624972/Orange-White-Fish.jpg" class="image-align-left">delayed gratification in tending fish that can be a maturing experience,” says Medical Doctor Archana Lal-Tabak, who practices integrative medicine, holistic psychiatry, Ayurveda and homeopathy at the Heart of Transformation Wellness Institute, in Evanston, Illinois.</p>
<p>
She stresses that fish ownership should be a family experience at the beginning, so that children take their responsibility seriously; it also naturally leads to eagerly anticipated visits to natural waterways. Lal-Tabak particularly recommends this hobby for children with attention deficit symptoms, because, “Watching fish can slow children down and allow them to appreciate being in the present moment.”</p>
<p>
A discreet correlation exists between witnessing the compatibility of different species and human potential. Seeing a world of multicolored fish represents a harmonious diversity for a discerning person of any age.<img alt="Black Yellow Striped Fish" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/624973/Black-Yellow-Striped-FIsh.jpg" class="image-align-right"></p>
<p>
Elander further notes that some fish characteristics make them particularly well suited as pets for the older set. “They don’t bark and you don’t have to take them out for a walk on a cold morning,” he says with a grin.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Find more information in the </em>Marine Aquarium Handbook: Beginner to Breeder<em>, by Martin A. Moe, Jr.</em></p>
<p>
<em>Animal lover Randy Kambic is an Estero, FL, freelance writer and editor and a frequent contributor to </em>Natural Awakenings<em>.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:fedbc511-11dd-46cd-824a-7881a3ff5eb42019-08-28T16:08:03-04:002019-08-28T16:08:03-04:00Raw Food Diets for Pets: Weighing the Pros and Cons2012-12-27 13:47:20 -0500Sandra Murphy<p>
<span class="dropcap">A</span>s with their own food, dog and cat owners are reading pet food labels more closely these days to evaluate ingredients and their sources. American pet food companies may outsource to foreign manufacturers, sometimes with disastrous results. Various brands of dry dog food (kibble) and treats have been recalled for melamine contamination or other problems—even brands manufactured here have been recalled for salmonella contamination.</p>
<p>
To ensure that what we’re serving our dogs contains a proper balance of protein, vitamins and minerals for overall health, the Dog Food Advisor rates dog foods and treats by brand name, explains the ingredients, including byproducts not fit for human consumption, and recommends the best options. Owners can sign up for emails about recalls and other alerts at <a href="http://DogFoodAdvisor.com">DogFoodAdvisor.com</a>.</p>
<p>
Other reasons to read labels include potential allergic reactions to foods, especially chicken and corn, common ingredients in kibble. The educational website notes, “Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain of only modest nutritional value to a dog.”</p>
<h3>
Homemade Meals</h3>
<p>
To have more control over what the family dog or cat eats, many owners turn to home-cooked meals, but know-how is key. “A big risk with home-prepared diets is that they are almost always nutritionally inadequate for long-term feeding, even when using published recipes,” advises Dr. Brennen McKenzie, president of the Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine Association. “Consult a board-certified nutritionist for the unique nutritional needs of the pet, based on age, breed, health condition and other factors. Don’t substitute ingredients.”</p>
<p>
Cooking for pets can be timeconsuming. Some owners have found dehydrated foods like those from The Honest Kitchen, made in the United States using human food-grade ingredients, both cost-effective and easy to prepare. While the purchase price can be higher than other options, the food rapidly rehydrates to four times its original weight by adding warm water. A meatless variety allows owners to add their choice of raw meat, meaty bones or cooked meat and can be suitable for sensitive dogs, raw feeders and dogs that need a unique protein source.</p>
<p>
“Dehydrated foods are also a good way for a squeamish owner to start a raw diet for their dog,” remarks Dr. Laurie Coger, an associate veterinarian at the Bloomingrove Veterinary Hospital, in Rensselaer, New York, who also offers consultations through <a href="http://TheHonestKitchen.com">TheHonestKitchen.com</a>. Coger suggests, “First, determine what a dog or cat needs in his diet, then transition gradually from kibble to a cooked or raw diet. Cats may resist change, while dogs can be more flexible.”</p>
<p class="pullquote">
“You can spend money on vet visits or on better food.”<br>
<em>~ Veterinarian Laurie Coger</em>
</p>
<p>
<br>
Pet food maker Steve’s Real Food is another option as it does not use lamb, pork or venison. Each poses a greater risk of carrying toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that can be passed on to pets, especially cats.</p>
<p>
“If you decide to incorporate raw foods, find a wholesale meat supplier so you can buy in bulk. You’ll need a freezer to take full advantage,” suggests Coger. “Feeding raw is not an all-or-nothing proposition, so mix and match. Cook when you have time, feed raw several days a week and use high-quality dehydrated or dry food when traveling.”</p>
<p>
Dr. Cathy Alinovi, owner of Hoof Stock Veterinary Service, in Pine Village, Indiana, found that switching to a raw diet solved an itching problem with her mixed-breed dog. She reports that, “Eighty percent of the reasons my clients bring their pets to me are cured by changing to better food.”</p>
<p>
Alinovi points out two drawbacks of serving raw food: “You can’t leave it out all day and it can be a challenge to transport home on a hot day.” But she’s found that the benefits are many, “Dog and cat furs shine and shed less; even their behavior improves.” Dog owners also note cleaner teeth, with no tartar buildup, cutting down on trips to the vet.</p>
<h3>
Not Everyone Agrees</h3>
<p>
Feeding a raw food diet is not without controversy. The American Veterinary Medical Association voted last summer to advise veterinarians to recommend clients against feeding raw meats and bones to pets. Pet Partners, formerly known as the Delta Society, which registers pets as therapy animals, has instituted a policy that states, “Animals may not be fed a raw protein diet. Animals previously fed [such] a diet must be off it for at least four weeks before registering them.” (See <a href="http://PetPartners.org/rawdiet">PetPartners.org/rawdiet</a>.)</p>
<p>
Deciding which foods to feed our pets requires extra research and meal preparation time, as well as money, but motivated owners like the results they see in their pet’s health.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Missourian Sandra Murphy may be reached at <a href="mailto:StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com">StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com</a>.</em></p>
<p>
</p>
<h3>
<strong>Safe Pet Food Prep</strong>
</h3>
<p>
To handle raw meat and bones safely, follow the same guidelines as when cooking for family members.</p>
<p>
When shopping, keep meat, seafood and poultry separate from other foods—double-bag them to keep juices contained.</p>
<p>
In the fridge, store meat products in sealable containers on the lowest shelf, so that potential drips won’t touch other foods. Fridge temp should be 40° Fahrenheit or lower.</p>
<p>
Use one cutting board for meats and another for produce.</p>
<p>
Wash hands before and after handling meat. Sanitize countertops, wooden cutting boards and knives with white distilled vinegar (5 percent), undiluted, heated to 130° F and left on the surface for one minute; then dry with a recycled-paper towel or air dry. It will kill 99 percent of germs. Plastic cutting boards go in the dishwasher.</p>
<p>
Deep clean wooden boards by scrubbing with natural coarse salt and lemon juice (the second half of the lemon face works as a scrubber); rinse with hot water and dry upright. Keep wood from drying out by periodically applying beeswax or walnut or almond oil.</p>
<p>
Refrigerate or discard any uneaten food, wash dog bowls after every feeding with soap and hot water, and then let air dry or wipe with a recyclable paper towel.</p>
<p>
Sponges hoard germs. If used, sanitize them in the microwave at least every other day. Make sure the sponge is wet, not dry. Two minutes will kill 99 percent of most diseasecausing germs. Let it cool before handling.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Primary sources: U.S. Food and Drug Administration; <a href="http://OrganicAuthority.com">OrganicAuthority.com</a></em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:9b4c2acc-292e-4572-b28d-662bff1d044d2019-08-28T16:21:01-04:002019-08-28T16:21:02-04:00Critter Companions: Alternative Adoptions Fit for Families2012-11-30 12:57:56 -0500Sandra Murphy<p>
<span class="dropcap">W</span>hile dogs, cats, fish and birds populate most pet homes, other animals can be just as much fun to own.</p>
<h3>
Rabbits</h3>
<p>
“Rabbits are social and love routine. Be late with dinner and a bunny will show displeasure by stomping its feet,” says Pamela Hood, founder of Sweet Binks Rabbit Rescue, a state-licensed shelter in Foster, Rhode Island. Her four rules for happy, active bunnies are: Find a veterinarian that knows rabbits, adopt rather than buy, get a bonded pair and spay/neuter them.</p>
<p>
Since 2000, Sweet Binks has rescued more than 1,700 rabbits as recaptured strays or from shelters meant for dogs and cats. Bunnies can live more than 14 years.</p>
<p>
“Rabbits eat more than just carrots. Pellets should be timothy hay-based, not alfalfa, for adult rabbits,” explains Hood. “But limit the amount. Hay should be 85 to 90 percent of their diet, because the side-to-side chewing of hay keeps teeth worn down to a livable length and ensures proper digestion.”</p>
<p>
Rabbits can be litter box-trained and run free if the home is pet-proofed. For example, keep electrical cords out of reach or covered with plastic tubing. A lonely, bored bunny can be destructive, so provide wooden and chemicalfree wicker toys for chewing. Play with them daily, although most shy away from cuddling. Bonded pairs need to be in sight of one another.<img alt="Miniature Horse" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/625984/Miniature-Horse.jpg" class="image-align-right"></p>
<h3>
Miniature Horses</h3>
<p>
Miniature horses are not to be confused with Shetland ponies. Minis are fully grown horses, bred for pulling carts, not riding. They require the same care as a larger horse and make good therapy animals. An adult mini is about the same size as a standard-sized horse’s newborn foal—about 34 to 38 inches tall at the withers (between the shoulder blades), although some are smaller.</p>
<p>
“Trained minis are good, gentle interpreters of emotion,” says Veronique Matthews, founder of Hearts & Hooves, a nonprofit equine therapy organization in Austin, Texas. “We visit abused or autistic kindergarten-age children with a ratio of one child, one horse, one handler.” Walking on a handheld leash, a mini can help a child to cope with fear and anxiety.</p>
<h3>
Alpaca</h3>
<p>
A few years ago, alpacas were regarded as the next moneymakers when breeding and sales brought high prices for fleece, along with their waste, sold as soil-enriching manure. After the trend peaked, many herds were sold, often to ill-suited owners, and some needed rescuing.</p>
<p>
Michelle Zumwalt, a job consultant for people with disabilities in Spanish Lake, Missouri, has hosted rescued alpacas for eight years; the number fluctuates, based on new arrivals and adoptions. “There are enough of them to help supply local organic farms with fertilizer,” says Zumwalt. “These gentle creatures feel safest in numbers; when in danger, they will <img alt="Herbmit Crab White Shell" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/625985/Hermit-Crab.jpg" class="image-align-left">kick or spit.”</p>
<h3>
Hermit Crabs</h3>
<p>
Hermit crabs are likeable for their social, nonaggressive character, ease in handling and low maintenance. All crabs are born in the ocean, although some species leave the water as adults. Pet crabs in the United States are either Caribbean land crabs or the faster and more agile Ecuadorian crabs, which require access to both salt and fresh water.</p>
<p>
A 10-gallon fish tank with sand of a consistency suitable for castle building that’s three or four times deeper than the height of the largest crab works well. Crabs can grow to six inches in length and live 10 years or more, although they don’t reproduce in captivity. As colony animals, they’re much happier in a group.</p>
<p>
Hermit crabs periodically need to replace the shell they carry on their back. Provide a shell that is 10 to 15 percent larger and watch as the crab tries it on for size. When crabs molt their underside ectoskeleton, they burrow beneath the sand for four to eight weeks; place these crabs in a separate tank.</p>
<p>
“Because crabs are scavengers, we feed them chicken, turkey, seaweed, scrambled eggs and fish. They love carrots, bell peppers, kiwi and coconut,” says Christine Richards, a maintenance management analyst and hermit crab caregiver in Montgomery Village, Maryland. “Crabs are nocturnal, so use a small flashlight to watch their antics,” she adds. “They love to climb.”</p>
<h3>
Chinchillas<img alt="Chinchilla Eating" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/625986/Chinchilla-Eating.jpg" class="image-align-right">
</h3>
<p>
Chinchillas, another night creature, can live up to 20 years. A round body, tiny hands and large ears make them easy to love, remarks Christina Pierce, a federal examiner of financial institutions in Little Rock, Arkansas. “My chin, Gizmo, wants to be where the commotion is and likes to travel,” she laughs.</p>
<p>
A specialty vet is required for chinchillas, with attention given to their teeth, which grow throughout their life. Give them things to chew on and fresh hay to help file down teeth. Gizmo’s favorite chews are willow twigs, peanuts in the shell, alfalfa sticks and lava blocks. “A twice-daily dust bath keeps his fur clean,” notes Pierce, “plus, it’s fun to watch.”</p>
<p>
It seems that everyone can find a pet that’s perfect for them. It’s just a matter of thinking outside the litter box.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Sandra Murphy is a regular contributor to</em> Natural Awakenings.</p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e55370cc-972e-4f07-81d8-14f79a403fae2019-08-28T16:17:20-04:002019-08-28T16:17:20-04:00Aging Gracefully: Good Ways to Care for Pets in their Golden Years2012-10-31 12:13:51 -0400Sandra Murphy<h4>
<strong>We know that animals subjectively age faster than humans. What are the signs and how can we ease the way for an elderly pet?</strong><br>
</h4>
<p>
<span class="dropcap">“A</span>s with humans, living longer doesn’t mean adding on time at the end, but adding to the middle, when pets can still enjoy themselves, maybe with some changes and modifications,” advises Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Mark Howes, owner of Berglund Animal Hospital, in Evanston, Illinois. “Pets deserve quality of life.”</p>
<p>
Howes believes the old rule of thumb—one human year equals seven dog years—has changed. Size and breed are also factors now. “A 7-yearold great Dane is a senior, but for a Pomeranian, it’s closer to 10,” he says. “For other breeds, 12 is not necessarily elderly.”</p>
<p>
Key signs that indicate a pet may be slowing down and require special attention include changes in appetite, mobility and social interaction with people and other pets. In general, watch for flagging desires, abilities and cooperation.</p>
<h3>
Helpful Steps</h3>
<p>
Instead of visiting a veterinarian’s office, choosing a vet that makes house calls is one viable solution. This is how New York City-based Dr. Jonathan Leshanski has specialized in aiding pets for 15 years. “During home visits, I notice things a pet’s person may miss or misinterpret in the midst of daily companioning,” says Leshanski, who sees more cats than dogs. “Because house calls are convenient for owners, I see pets more often and can diagnose problems earlier.”</p>
<p>
Dr. Cathy Alinovi also takes to the road with her rural practice, Hoof Stock Veterinary Service, in Pine Village, Indiana. She’s found, “The best way to keep a pet healthy and present longer is to keep the brain active,” adding that clients attest that their dog lived well and longer because of early intervention. “Some treatments for maintaining flexibility in their body are as simple as massage and stretching,” she adds.</p>
<p>
An older or ill pet can become a finicky eater whose diet needs revamping. Dogs can sometimes skip a meal or two, but it’s important for cats to eat regularly says Jodi Ziskin, a holistic nutrition consultant who specializes in companion animal care in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.</p>
<p>
“Each animal is different, and it’s important to find the right food texture, smell and taste,” she notes. “Keep nutrients as pure and organic as possible and serve real meat and veggies. If a pet has trouble chewing or needs more fluids, try dehydrated foods, thinned by blending with filtered water to a puréed consistency. Don’t set food and water dishes on the floor—raise them so the pet’s head is higher than his stomach, which helps digestion.”</p>
<p>
Ziskin recalls how a holistic diet and supplements enabled her own cat, Kayla, diagnosed with chronic renal failure, hyperthyroidism and irritable bowel syndrome at age 14, to live twice as long as her original prognosis of three years. Acupuncture and subcutaneous fluid therapy complemented her nutritional program.</p>
<p>
For pets with chronic pain from arthritis or another ailment, veterinary house calls can literally be lifesavers, because they give owners more options than premature euthanasia. Dr. Karri Miller, a veterinary oncologist with Veterinary Healthcare Associates, in Winter Haven, Florida, advises, “Cancer treatments for pets are not as harsh as they are for people and have fewer side effects. Before making a decision about treatment, consult a veterinary oncologist and ask a lot of questions. More pets today are living longer with a good quality of life.”</p>
<p>
Dr. Kathleen Cooney, owner of Home to Heaven veterinary services, in Loveland, Colorado, likes the team approach. “We teach people to partner with their pet on a day-to-day basis and help take away the fear by educating the family to recognize the stages of aging and illness, pain and crisis, manage nutrition and live like their pets do—in the moment, not in the future. Understanding brings peace.” When the end comes, compassionate euthanasia at home or on Cooney’s farm lends a comforting atmosphere at a difficult time.</p>
<h3>
Leaving with Dignity</h3>
<p>
For aging or terminally ill pets, Dr. Mary Gardner, owner of Lap of Love, in Broward County, Florida, works with families through the end of the pet’s life. “As a veterinarian who solely practices in-home hospice and euthanasia, I have been given a unique privilege,” she says. “Hospice care supports both the pet and family. I make sure the family and I have a clearly defined goal—the comfort of the animal.” Similar to hospice care for humans, pets in hospice are given palliative care that can prolong life without suffering or pain.</p>
<p>
Accepting help from a hospice service is not about giving up, but simply recognizing that additional treatment will not cure the illness. It’s accepting that the quality of each day of life is more important than the number of days. It’s living fully, beginning to end, right up until the last breath.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Sandra Murphy is a regular contributor to </em>Natural Awakenings<em> magazines.</em></p>
<h3>
<img alt="Gray cat with food bowl" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/625635/Gray-Cat-With-Food-Bowl.jpg" class="image-align-left">
</h3>
<div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>ENTICING A PICKY EATER</strong><br>
“A pet doesn’t need to eat every nutrient every day. A balance achieved over several days will work. Getting them to eat is the main thing,” says Jodi Ziskin, a Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based animal wellness counselor. “Details can be worked out later.”<br>
<br>
She suggests these nutritious tips for perking up interest:<br>
<br>
Feed the animal two to four times a day in small amounts, so the stomach is neither empty or overfull. Changing from a raw diet to cooked food can aid digestion for older pets.<br>
<br>
For cats: Quinoa, millet or rice slows digestion and allows absorption of more nutrients. Because cats utilize fat in their diet better than dogs, a full-fat, plain yogurt is a good treat.<br>
<br>
For dogs: Low-fat yogurt and probiotics soothe the stomach. Chicken thigh meat offers more flavor than breast meat.<br>
<br>
For both: A scrambled egg is a welcome treat. Also, add a bit of liquid from no-salt added, low mercury, wild caught, BPA-free cans of waterpacked tuna poured over their regular food or alternatively, ground-meat baby food. Aroma plays a large part in appetite, so appropriately warm foods before serving. Chamomile tea—about two teaspoons for cats and more for dogs, depending on size—has a calming effect and aids digestion.<br>
<br>
Like humans, pets sometimes need an antacid—ask a veterinarian for advice. If administering pills is a problem, crush them in the liquid from water-packed tuna, put it into a feeding syringe and slowly squirt the liquid into the corner of the pet’s mouth.<br>
<br>
<em><a href="http://www.lapoflove.com/Pet_Quality_of_Life_Scale.pdf">LapOfLove.com/Pet_Quality_ of_Life_Scale.pdf</a> helps owners track signs of improvements or deterioration that require adjustments in life management.</em>
</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:c185ec5c-5792-4066-a894-64fea8b2d3892019-08-28T16:35:28-04:002019-08-28T16:35:29-04:00Managing Mange: Treatment Plans that Speed Relief2012-09-28 12:34:57 -0400Dr. Matthew J. Heller<p>
<span class="dropcap">“M</span>angy mutt” may seem a benign enough term for a sorry-looking pooch, but behind the poor appearance can lie a troublesome health condition that causes many species of domestic animals, including cats, discomfort if not properly treated.</p>
<p>
Mange is typically caused by tiny, parasitic mites that feed upon the pet for nutrition, compromising the host’s health. Some burrow under the skin to lay eggs, which hatch and restart the mite’s life cycle; others stay on the skin’s surface and feed on pet dandruff.</p>
<h3>
Common Types of Mange</h3>
<p>
Various types of mange share common symptoms: In infected areas, hair loss, redness, itching, irritation and scabs typically occur; more seriously, a pet’s skin may harden to a scaly condition. If untreated, mange can transform a dog’s skin into an uncomfortable, leathery and brittle organ. Stay alert to such appearances and act quickly.</p>
<p>
Sarcoptic scabies mange results from microscopic, oval-shaped, lightcolored mites that migrate easily between hosts. Prime real estate includes a pet’s ears, elbows, thighs, face and underside of the chest. Symptoms include severe itching and scratching that creates red bumps amidst crusty, thick skin, weight loss, lethargy and swollen lymph nodes. It takes about one week after a pet has been exposed to them for symptoms to appear. Unlike demodectic mange, sarcoptic mange can be transmitted to humans, causing a red rash similar to an insect bite.</p>
<p>
Pets that suffer from demodectic mange typically already have a weakened or compromised immune system, sometimes because of immaturity (such as puppies), malnourishment, stress associated with another illness, or even a hereditary issue. Under a microscope, demodex mites appear cigar-shaped. Common symptoms include hair loss, balding, scabbing and sores. Dogs are more susceptible to both types than cats.</p>
<p>
Localized demodectic mange usually occurs in puppies when mites migrate from mother to pup during early nurturing. In puppies, the mange often appears on the face, creating a patchy, polka-dotted, balding appearance. Generally, pets will heal from this type of mange without treatment. Generalized demodectic mange presents a greater challenge, because it is spread across large areas of the skin. The pet may emit a horrid odor from secondary bacterial skin infections.</p>
<h3>
Diagnosis and Treatment</h3>
<p>
If a pet shows symptoms of mange, consult a holistic veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Once diagnosed, it is vital to implement a full treatment. For cases of sarcoptic mange, this entails replacing the pet’s bedding and collar, plus treating all animals with which the pet has been in contact.</p>
<p>
Conventional treatment options vary. The irritating toxicity of most antiparasitic medications, such as ivermectin or selamectin-based products, makes them effective in destroying mites over several months but also creates problems for the pet if used improperly. Thus, a vet may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication; a natural option is plant-derived sterols such as beta-sitosterol, which acts like a cortisone steroid, without the immune-suppressing side effects.</p>
<p>
Antibiotics also are often prescribed to treat the secondary skin infections and ease itching. Natural antibiotics such as amoxicillin/clavulanate offer a more gentle choice than synthetics.</p>
<p>
Natural herbal ingredients further provide a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemicals. Garlic is popular for its natural repellent and antibacterial properties. Other natural insecticides, including wormwood, neem and lemongrass, help soothe irritated skin. A holistic veterinarian will address the underlying causes of poor health, especially in the case of demodectic mange. Key elements in restoring optimal wellness include proper nutrition via a well-crafted natural diet and immuneboosting probiotics, plus supplements to meet the individual pet’s needs.</p>
<p>
From a holistic standpoint, bolstering the immune system with vitamins (like vitamin C and general skin and immune-supportive pet nutraceuticals) and herbs (such as <em>Astragalus</em>) help. Supplementing the pet’s diet with foods or supplements high in omega-3 and omega-6 also helps; sources of both include salmon and flaxseed.</p>
<p>
As with other types of parasitic diseases, it is critical that the owner comply with a veterinarian’s treatment instructions. If the pet is prescribed an antiparasitic medication for 90 days, for example, use it for the entire period, regardless of improvements. An incomplete treatment may interrupt the mite’s life cycle but fail to sufficiently destroy the entire population to prevent re-infestation.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Dr. Matthew J. Heller is an integrative veterinarian and owner of All About PetCare, in Middletown, OH.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6111b4e4-f418-424f-b0c1-ca3461c3380e2019-08-28T16:35:11-04:002019-08-28T16:35:12-04:00Doggy Lost… and Found Again: Microchips Provide Peace of Mind2012-08-30 15:02:53 -0400Avery Mack<p>
<span class="dropcap">I</span>t’s easy for a dog or cat to slip out an unlatched door, open gate or even a window. Three million lost pets are picked up by animal control agencies each year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The National Council on Pet Population Study & Policy estimates fewer than 2 percent of wayward cats and only 15 to 20 percent of wandering dogs find their way home again. Most of those that make it back have been identified and reunited through tags, tattoos or microchips.</p>
<p>
About the size of a grain of rice (12 millimeters), a microchip is injected under the skin into the shoulder area of a dog or cat as a form of permanent identification. The chip itself has no internal energy source, so it will never wear out or run down.</p>
<p>
Microchips work on a radio frequency identification system (RFIS) that operates on two main frequencies—125 kilohertz (in this country) or 134.2 kilohertz (internationally). A handheld scanner powers a low radio frequency readout of the chip’s unique identification number and transmits it to the scanner’s display window, much like a retail bar code.</p>
<p>
Shelters, veterinarians and animal control staff routinely use scanners to check for identification chips in unclaimed pets. If detected, the displayed code can then be traced to the pet’s family.</p>
<h3>
Microchip Myth Busters</h3>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> Microchipping is common.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> The Humane Society of America estimates that fewer than 5 percent of pets have a microchip.</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> The chip will move after it’s been injected.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> Technology has improved. For example, one microchip manufacturer has developed a patented anti-migration feature that ensures their microchips stay put.</p>
<p class="pullquote">
Every two seconds, a pet is lost somewhere in the United States. Shelters report the biggest barrier to a pet and family reunion is a lack of current information. Identification can help bring him home again. Use both a tag and microchip. Keep contact information up to date. When traveling, program a GPS tag with a cell phone number—it’s faster than calling home for messages.</p>
<p>
<br>
“The chip very rarely migrates under the skin,” says Dr. Amber Andersen, a Los Angeles veterinarian. “Every pet should have a microchip.”</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> Microchips pose a health risk.<br>
<strong>True: </strong>“There have been no reported cases of tumors at injection sites.”</p>
<p>
There’s no reaction at all in the tissue around the chip,” reports Dr. Jeff Bryan, a veterinary oncologist at the University of Missouri’s Medical Veterinary Teaching Hospital, in Columbia.</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> The shelter won’t have a scanner.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> More than 50,000 veterinarians and shelters use scanners. Microchip providers also frequently donate scanners to shelters and rescue groups.</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> Implanting a microchip is painful.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> Pets do not have to be sedated to be chipped. Although a larger needle is used than for shots, it won’t be any more painful for the pet than a vaccination.</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> It’s expensive.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> Veterinarians set their own prices, usually between $25 and $40. Local shelters and humane societies often sponsor chip-a-thons, where microchips are provided at an even lower cost. Call local shelters, humane societies or rescue groups for details about their next microchipping event.</p>
<p>
<strong>False:</strong> Microchipping really isn’t necessary.<br>
<strong>True:</strong> Identification is key in returning a lost pet. The ASPCA strongly recommends the use of a collar tag in combination with a microchip. Collars can break—a microchip assures backup identification that can’t be removed or altered.</p>
<h3>
GPS Tracking</h3>
<p>
For a dog that likes to jump fences or take himself out on walkabouts, consider using a GPS collar. Tagg’s battery-powered GPS system allows the owner to track a pet from the Internet or a mobile phone app. Simply set up a perimeter of allowed space between 75 and 1,000 yards, and if the tagged pet leaves that area, notification arrives by text and email. The customized GPS function traces the pet’s location on a digital map or via text updates.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Avery Mack regularly contributes to </em>Natural Awakenings<em> magazines. Connect at <a href="mailto:AveryMack@mindspring.com">AveryMack@mindspring.com</a>.</em></p>
<div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>Pet Locator Resources</strong><br>
<strong>American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery</strong><br>
800-252-7894<br>
<a href="http://akccar.org">akccar.org</a><br>
<strong>American Veterinary ID Devices</strong><br>
800-336-2843<br>
<a href="http://avidid.com">avidid.com</a><br>
<strong>Home Again</strong><br>
888-466-3242<br>
<a href="http://Public.HomeAgain.com">Public.HomeAgain.com</a><br>
<strong>IdentiChip</strong><br>
800-926-1313<br>
<a href="http://www.IdentiChip.com">IdentiChip.com</a><br>
<strong>Tagg</strong><br>
855-738-8244<br>
<a href="http://Tagg.com">Tagg.com</a>
</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:07c56297-04b8-40e9-99bf-f5ad87c119082019-08-28T16:26:09-04:002019-08-28T16:26:09-04:00Cherished Family Members: Solutions for Pass-Around Pets2012-07-31 12:36:19 -0400Rebecca Ryan<h4>
<strong>Animal companions provide entertainment, comfort and unconditional acceptance and become part of the family. When major changes affect the lives of owners, they also affect pets. What happens to them when family dynamics shift?</strong><br>
<br>
<br>
</h4>
<p>
<span class="dropcap">W</span>hen Kaitlin Crocker arrived in North Grafton, Massachusetts, at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in 2006, she met up with another new arrival, a 3-year-old beagle named Daisy. Usually such dogs are acquired from research facilities so that students can perform physical health exams and work to socialize them. Crocker notes, “Daisy might never have been outside before; she was afraid of the door, the steps and big dogs. I was glad to see that once her nose took over, she decided a walk was kind of fun.”</p>
<p>
Tufts dogs are typically available for adoption afterward, and Daisy moved in with Crocker’s parents, until Crocker finished school. “Daisy got along well with our family dog, Hawk. She adjusted to home life, especially after we added lights in the back yard, because she was afraid of the dark,” recalls her mother.</p>
<p>
After graduation, the newly minted veterinarian married and found a house with a nice yard for Daisy. The dog’s only apparent problem so far has been with a hissing feline called Gracie, whom Daisy has decided to ignore. Daisy’s next adjustment will be the arrival of a human baby; one of Crocker’s girlfriends is aiding the preparation by bringing her baby to visit, so Daisy can learn about bottles, diapers and crying infants.</p>
<p>
After Jessica Albon’s apartment building was sold, she and her Labrador retriever, Izzy, relocated to a 300-square-foot apartment on her parent’s property, with shared kitchen facilities. “It caused some friction,” admits this Winston-Salem website designer and owner of Thrive Your Tribe. “Two-year-old Izzy was full of energy, and our ideas of training differed.” Albon couldn’t find an apartment willing to take a large pet, so her answer was to buy a house.</p>
<p>
Business travel from New York also takes Steven Rice, a vice president at public relations firm Harrison & Shriftman, away from his rescue dog, Samantha. Then, “My parents get the fun of having a dog around without the fulltime commitment,” says Rice, “while Samantha enjoys the change from a city apartment to a large backyard.” The dog has favorite toys, her regular food and her own bed nearby, so she feels right at home.</p>
<p>
In the case of divorce, courts routinely treat pets as property, rather than family, although attitudes are changing as judges recognize the emotional attachment of both parties. Attorneys encourage couples to decide where the pet will live.</p>
<p>
“During our divorce, the issue of who would get custody of our beagle almost took us by surprise,” says David Bakke, the Atlanta-based online editor of <em>Money Crashers Personal Finance</em>, headquartered in Chicago. “We were so involved in the issues of child custody, alimony and child support that we didn’t discuss Rocky until late in the process.”</p>
<p>
“My wife got primary custody of our children. We decided it would be in the best interests of both our dog and our kids that they live together,” Bakke says. “When they visit me, they bring Rocky with them. I miss him, but I also know this is best for everyone else.”</p>
<p>
When children are not an issue, pets can become a primary concern in divorces. “We never had children and our Yorkshire terrier, Clover, became our substitute,” says Courtney Karem, marketing director at the Bougainvillea Clinique, in Winter Park, Florida. “My ex-husband eventually moved a few hours away, but we arrange for him to see Clover, who lives with me.”<img alt="Sharing custody of pets" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/626459/Shared-Custody-Pets.jpg" class="image-align-right"></p>
<p>
In acrimonious divorce cases, matrimonial Attorney Rachel Weisman, founder of Weisman Law Group, in New York City, has dealt with pet ownership. There have been occasions where a spouse denies rightful visitation before custody is determined or even gives the pet away without consensual agreement. If there is a possibility of abuse, a protective order for the animal can be obtained, advises Weisman. The core question is what is the key to the pet’s health and happiness?</p>
<p>
Times of change are stressful for all concerned, but can be made easier for pets by keeping their interests in mind, just as one would with beloved children.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Rebecca Ryan writes about pets and more for </em>Natural Awakenings<em>. Connect at <a href="mailto:RebeccaRyan@mindspring.com">RebeccaRyan@mindspring.com</a>.</em></p>
<div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>Helpful Tips for Shared Custody</strong><br>
• Visit the new location together. Give the pet sufficient time to explore and become comfortable.<br>
• Pack a doggie suitcase with familiar items, including food, leash, bedding, favorite chew and other toys, yummy treats and an item of unwashed clothing with the owner’s scent on it.<br>
• Provide written instructions about feeding, activities, likes, dislikes and any fears, plus the current family schedule, especially if a former spouse has a new partner.<br>
• Stick to the pet’s regular daily routines as much as possible.<br>
<br>
<em>Source: Linda Michaels, dog psychologist and owner of Wholistic Dog Training, in San Diego, CA</em>
</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:d34db36b-24e8-4c57-bef6-e478c1b642482019-08-28T16:26:19-04:002019-08-28T16:26:19-04:00Better Doggie Bags: Want Not, Waste Not2012-07-31 12:35:22 -0400Anonymous<p>
<em><span class="dropcap">T</span>he New York Times</em> estimates that 78 million dogs produce more than 10.6 million tons of dung annually. To tackle the growing problem of unhygienic doggie doo-doo, about which <em>USA Today</em> reports, “At some beaches, dogs help raise bacteria levels so high that visitors must stay out of the water,” operators of Allan H. Treman Marine State Park, in Ithaca, New York, started a project in 2009 to compost the waste in its dog park.</p>
<p>
Plastic bags that don’t decompose easily end up in landfills, so park officials began placing corn-based, compostable bags in dispensers. A local company, Cayuga Compost, picks up the waste weekly for processing and deposits it into a pile mixed with yard and wood waste at a nearby composting site.</p>
<p>
In 18 months, the company composted 12 tons of dog waste from the park. Lab tests have shown that the compost is pathogen-free and has a high-nutrient profile that is perfect for flowers, shrubs and trees. Cayuga Program Manager Mark Whiting calls it a great example of upcycling—taking something that is otherwise considered worthless and turning it into a product with higher value.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Note: <a href="http://ZeroWasteUSA.com">ZeroWasteUSA.com</a> and similar entities provide complete sustainable systems for pet waste disposal; biodegradable bags are widely available at retail.</em></p>
<p>
<em>Natural Awakenings' Webstore offers </em><a href="http://www.nawebstore.com/store/pc/Pet-Accessories-c111.htm"><em>biodegradable and compostable dog waste bags</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>