V24I2 (Spring 2022) by Redstone Media Group

CONTENTS Spring 2022

38 Features 28

nwanted behaviors and U nutrition

Find out how certain dietary nutrients and calming supplements may curb aggression, anxiety and other unwanted behaviors in dogs.

INSIDE & OUT

What to do about your dog’s hot spots

26 TREAT TIME Pup-friendly hot cross buns

Just because they can’t have chocolate doesn’t mean our dogs have to miss out on yummy treats this Easter! Here’s an easy recipe your four-legged friend will love.

Dental disease affects most dogs and cats, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Take a holistic approach to preventive care by following these five steps to a healthier mouth.

16 NATURAL

30 AT THE VET

ow to teach your dog or H cat to accept tooth brushing

A spice renowned for its color and flavor, turmeric offers noteworthy health benefits to dogs as well as humans.

Regular tooth brushing is an important part of your dog or cat’s dental care regime. Find out how to get her to accept and even enjoy the procedure.

our hands-on guide for Y going to the dog park

Taking your canine companion to the dog park should be fun and safe for both of you. This guide offers all you need to know to ensure a positive experience.

10 4

10 HEALING

Hot spots are a common and frustrating problem, and can cause your dog a lot of discomfort and angst. These natural remedies can help.

op 5 ways to prevent dental 38 Tdisease in dogs and cats

Columns

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SUPPLEMENT

Turmeric — a supplement worth considering for your dog

19 TECHNOLOGY

AI helps your veterinarian provide optimal care

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a valuable tool that can help your veterinarian do his/her job with greater speed and precision.

24 KNOW YOUR CAT Is your cat happy?

A happy cat is a healthy cat. Find out whether or not your kitty is happy, and how you can help her feel better.

Anesthesia, analgesia, or sedation

What are the differences, and what might your dog or cat need?

34 FORWARD PLANNING

Being a good dog parent starts with pet insurance

Pet insurance is becoming increasingly popular among dog parents. These statistics say it all.

36 DO IT YOURSELF Make your own doggy toothpaste Good dental health means keeping your dog’s teeth and gums in good shape. Here’s how to make a safe and effective doggy toothpaste using common natural ingredients.

64 ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

NAET — a breakthrough approach to allergies in dogs and cats

30 42 FELINE

56 CANINE

Environmental toxins — help your cat breathe easier

Dog apparel — from fun to practical

NAET is an energy medicine modality that uses techniques such as MRT and acupressure to get to the root of your dog or cat’s allergies.

STYLE

HEALTH

Whether you’re protecting him against the elements or dressing him up for a holiday, there’s dog apparel for every occasion!

Our homes contain a range of environmental toxins that can affect your cat’s respiratory system. Here are the most common culprits.

46 SPOTLIGHT

72 FOCUS ON CBD

Can CBD help with your dog’s dental health?

58 NEED TO

How “conservation dogs” are helping the environment

KNOW

How to clean and care for wounds in your dog or cat

Working dogs have many roles, and that includes using their powerful sense of smell to help with wildlife conservation. Find out how they do it.

All dogs and cats occasionally get scraped or scratched. So it’s important to know how to clean and care for these wounds at home.

50 SKIN CARE

Sun protection and insect repellent for your dog The arrival of spring means more time outdoors with your dog, but don’t forget the sun protection and insect repellent!

62 PREVENTION

Human studies indicate that CBD can have applications for dental health. The results can be extrapolated to our dogs too.

78 HEALTH WATCH

Why do cats gag?

Does your cat gag a lot? While some gagging is normal and natural, it may signal a health issue if it happens often.

Why you should weigh your cat every month

Your cat’s weight is one of the most important indicators of her wellbeing. Weighing her once a month can help you catch health problems early on.

Departments 7 From the Editor 35 AW Academy

product reviews

44 Let’s get social! 48 Product picks

Social Media

61 Business profile — Chicken Soup for the Soul pet food

80 Classifieds 81 Marketplace

68 To the rescue

81 Events

69 Spring highlights

82 Newsworthy

Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Nutrition videos, recipes and more! Animal Wellness Magazine

Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness

Animal Wellness

ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS VOLUME 24 ISSUE 2

EDITORIAL/CREATIVE DEPARTMENT:

Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Content Editor: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Alyssa Dow Junior Graphic Designer: Ethan Vorstenbosch Web Design & Development: Lace Imson

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Nadia Ali Sally E. Bahner Suzi Beber, Honoris causa Christine Caplan, CVT Katie Dalhausen, PhD Theresa W. Fossum, DVM, MS. PhD, Diplomate ACVS Holly Ganz, PhD Isabelle Groc Andrea Gronwald Casey Haught, DMD Ingrid King Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT Sungwon Lim, PhD Shawn Messonnier, DVM Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT Herb Moskowitz, DDS Erin Mullen Mark Newkirk, VMD Gary Pusillo, PhD Nancy Scanlan, DVM, MS, CVA Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS Tonya Wilhelm

ADMINISTRATION & SALES:

President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Finance Administrator: Donna Bailey Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden Subscription Services: Donna Bailey Customer Satisfaction Representative: Mattias Wahl

SUBMISSIONS:

ON THE COVER Cover photo by: Susan Schmitz This guy appears to be smiling for the camera, and his teeth look white and clean! Optimal dental care is one of the primary keys to a happy and healthy dog. Read on for valuable tips and advice on how to help maintain your own dog or cat’s oral health.

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Please email all editorial material to Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at ann@ redstonemediagroup.com. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in jpeg, tif or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received. You can also mail submissions to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. Please direct other correspondence to info@redstonemediagroup.com.

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Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (866) 764-1212 ext 115 US Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

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Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published four times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2022. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: February 2022. proudly supporting

improving the lives of animals... one reader at a time.

FROM THE EDITOR

Making oral health a

priority

y 14-year-old rescue dog, Muffie, has terrible teeth. She can’t help it — it’s just genetics, and her puppy mill origins don’t help. She actually had a few teeth removed a couple years ago, including a “snaggle tooth”; the vet said they were so loose they almost came out by themselves! Of course, we still diligently brush her teeth, which she detests, and we use additives in her water and on her food as well — because we know that so much depends on her oral health. Periodontal disease not only can make your dog or cat’s mouth sore and tender, but it can also lead to more serious systemic diseases. In this issue, we focus on how to ensure your four-legged friend’s teeth and gums stay in tip-top condition. Start out with a look at the top five ways to prevent dental disease, and check out our tips on making your own safe and effective doggy toothpastes. For those who struggle with brushing their animals’ teeth, we also offer advice on how to train your companion to accept and even enjoy the procedure! With spring just around the corner, it’s also time to pay extra attention to your dog or cat’s skin health. The warmer weather heralds the reappearance of fleas, ticks and other nasties that can trigger or contribute to allergies in our animal companions. Learn about natural ways to repel these pests, and take a look at some foods and topicals that address hot spots in dogs. We also explore the benefits of NAET, and how this alternative modality can be used to get to the root of allergies in your kitty or canine.

If you and your pooch are planning to hit the dog park more now that it’s nicer outside, read up on everything you need to know to make sure your outings stay safe and enjoyable. And if your animal suffers a scratch or scrape when she’s playing or roughhousing, find out how to clean and care for the wound at home — and when it’s better to take her to the vet. On the feline side, we feature articles on why cats gag, and why it’s important to weigh your kitty regularly. There’s lots more to learn and discover in this issue, so read on and make this spring as happy and healthy as possible for your canine or feline friend! And don’t forget to check out the Animal Wellness Academy for fun, educational videos on a wide variety of animal wellness topics — visit AnimalWellnessAcademy.org. Yours in health,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

In memoriam

For Itzy Bitzy (Bitzy), who crossed the Rainbow Bridge on January 18, 2022.

Visit our facebook page at facebook.com/AnimalWellnessMagazine Animal Wellness

CONTRIBUTORS Veterinarian Dr. Theresa Fossum is a world-renowned board-certified veterinary surgeon, and author of the best-selling textbook Small Animal Surgery. Her background includes more than 30 years of educating veterinarians and pet parents about diseases of companion animals. She is the CEO and Founder of Dr. Fossum’s Pet Care, which develops wellness products for companion animals. She is also the Founder of Epic Veterinary Specialists, LLC which is building unique specialty veterinary hospitals in Arizona. p. 16

Dr. Suzi Beber has been creating special needs diets for animals for two decades. She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She received a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund received the “Pets + Us” Community Outreach Champion Award. p. 10

Veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause graduated from Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007. She incorporates many holistic modalities into her canine and feline practice, has a love for Traditional Chinese Medicine and Physical Medicine, and also offers laser therapy, myofascial release, physical therapy, nutrition, pharmaceuticals and surgery. Dr. Angie has a house call practice called Boulder Holistic Vet (BoulderHolisticVet.com). p. 38

Christine Caplan is a Certified Vet Tech, and a long-time PR veteran and content marketing expert who brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three hounds — two “doxies” and a beagle/basset hound mix — who constantly teach her about life and companionship (mylifewithdogspdx.com). p. 36

Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier wrote The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics. His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (pawsandclawsanimalhospital.com) is in Plano, Texas. p. 30 Veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984. She later earned certification for Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation, and for Acupuncture and Food Therapy from the Chi Institute. Dr. Morgan is certified in acupuncture, food therapy, and chiropractic care. She has authored four books on holistic pet care, and has over 700 educational videos on Facebook and YouTube (drjudymorgan.com). p. 58 Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1981. After practicing traditionally for 16 years, he studied under Dr Marty Goldstein, a pioneer of alternative medicine. As Dr. Newkirk’s practice grew, he moved to his current location in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, where he blends traditional and alternative medicine, including chiropractic, homeopathy, NAET, and Chinese herbs (newkirkfamilyveterinarians.com). p. 64 Veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker received her degree from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. She owns/operates Natural Pet Animal Hospital, Feathers Bird Clinic, TheraPaw Rehabilitation and Pain Management Clinic and Covenant Wildlife Rehabilitation in Illinois. She co-authored Real Food for Healthy Pets and The Forever Dog and hosts a holistic animal wellness website (mercolahealthypets.com). p. 28 Veterinarian Dr. Nancy Scanlan is Executive Director for the AHVM Foundation, a board member of the World Association of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, and a consultant on the Veterinary Information Network. She has been using complementary health therapies in her veterinary practice since 1970, including nutraceuticals, acupuncture, non-classical homeopathy, and Chinese and Western herbs. Dr. Scanlan was Executive Director of the AHVMA for three years and president of the VBMA for two years. p. 42 Veterinarian Dr Robert Silver graduated in 1982 from Colorado State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and established one of the first integrative vet clinics in the US in Boulder, CO in 1993. Dr. Silver is a nationally recognized expert in veterinary herbal medicine and veterinary CBD and cannabis therapeutics. He published three chapters in Cannabis Therapy in Veterinary Medicine, and wrote A Guide to Pet CBD and Cannabis. Dr Silver shares a blog site with two other vets (NurseYourPet.com) and owns the Well-Pet Dispensary (wellpetdispensary.com). p. 72 Sungwon Lim, PhD, is the CEO and Co-Founder of ImpriMed, Inc., which uses artificial intelligence on live cancer cell analytics to predict how a patient will respond to cancer therapy drugs. He received his PhD degree in Bioengineering from Stanford University and a master’s degree in Translational Medicine from the UC Berkeley — UCSF Joint Bioengineering Program. Sungwon is a strong advocate of functional precision medicine — personalizing a cancer treatment regimen based on each patient’s cancer cells’ functional responses to anti-cancer drugs, beyond cancer genetics. p. 19

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Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs as a volunteer for two Humane Societies. Andrea and her dog were also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She has taught group and private classes, helping people forming happy relationships with their dogs. Andrea is a strong proponent of positive training methods. p. 74 Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who promotes positive ways to prevent and manage behavior issues. One of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers dog training classes; provides training and behavior services; and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com). p. 52 Nadia Ali is a freelance writer from London, who currently resides in the Caribbean. Her adopted shelter cat, Cici, who has now passed on, still serves as her inspiration to write about beloved companion animals. You can follow Nadia on Twitter at @NadiaAwriter. p. 78 Sally Bahner specializes in cat-related issues, specifically nutrition, holistic care and behavior. She has offered her services as a feline behavior and care consultant and gives classes on cat care. Sally is the resident cat behavior expert on Tracie Hotchner’s Cat Chat radio program, and a member of the Cat Writers’ Association and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. p. 24 Isabelle Groc is an award-winning writer, conservation photographer, book author, and documentary filmmaker focusing on wildlife conservation and the relationships between people and the natural world. She is the author of Conservation Canines: How Dogs Work for the Environment and Gone is Gone: Wildlife Under Threat. Isabelle lives in Vancouver (isabellegroc.com; Instagram @isabellegroc). p. 46 Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats with a BIG Attitude. Her blog, “The Conscious Cat”, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. p. 62 Erin Mullen is a freelance writer and entrepreneur living in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Saint Vincent College and enjoys spending her free time in the outdoors with her boxers, Emma and Elsa. p. 50

HEALING INSIDE & OUT

WHAT TO DO ABOUT YOUR DOG’S

HOT SPOTS By Dr. Suzi Beber, Honoris causa

Hot spots are a common and frustrating problem, and can cause your dog a lot of discomfort and angst. These natural remedies can help.

Animal Wellness

Hot spots have many “pet” names, including summer sores and moist dermatitis. They can appear anywhere on your dog’s body, though they’re most often found on the head, legs, flanks, by the tail and behind the ears. Let’s look at what causes hot spots — and more importantly, what you can do to ease the discomfort and itching they cause.

WHERE DO HOT SPOTS COME FROM? Hot spots have a variety of causes, from fleas, heat or a food sensitivity, to stress or something in the environment. But the most consistent factor is bacteria. Anything that irritates or breaks the skin can create the perfect environment for bacteria to grab hold, especially if the skin has a bit of moisture on it. Have you recently bathed your dog, walked in the rain, or watched him have a leisurely roll in the grass, or a romp in the snow? What about all those pesky bugs that start coming out when spring arrives? These are all possible ways for hot spots to take hold. Hot spots can grow as if they’re on “fast forward”. You might notice hair loss from all the licking, the sore may be bright red and feel sticky, there may be a yellowish color, and it might also bleed and smell. Luckily, there are a range of natural remedies you can use to help alleviate your dog’s hot spots. Keep in mind that just as people are all different, so are our dogs, so while one remedy might work for one, it may not for another. Over the years, I have found that having a variety of remedies is the best way to go. Remember to always check with your veterinarian first.

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR HOT SPOTS Calendula Also known as pot marigold, calendula is great for hot spots, since it has both anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Whether you grow your own (it has beautiful yellow and orange flowers) or purchase ready-made products, a calendula salve, tincture or tea may be just what your dog needs. If you grow your own calendula, simply harvest the flowers when they’re in full bloom, dry them on a rack or hang them upside down like a bouquet, and store them for future use. Simple calendula oil blend • Place dried calendula petals in a sterilized glass jar. • Cover with first pressed/ extra virgin olive oil or sweet almond oil — a combination of the two works well. The oil should cover the blooms by 1”. Animal Wellness

WATCHING FOR INFECTION It’s a good idea to trim the hair around a hot spot to prevent the spread of possible infection. This also allows you to see how big the hot spot truly is, because they can be very deceiving. It is also important to determine whether a bacterial infection has already set in, so check with your veterinarian if in any doubt. Acidophilus can also be used “in a pinch” — sprinkle on the itchy area to help block bacteria from taking hold.

• Cap tightly and gently shake the jar. • Place the jar on a windowsill where it will get good light, and gently shake it each day. • Wait four weeks, strain the blooms from the oil using cheesecloth or a fine sieve, then store your oil in another sterilized glass container (I prefer to use dark glass). • When you want to use your calendulainfused oil, combine 15 drops with 1/2 cup of distilled water. Place in a small spray bottle and treat your dog’s hot spot several times a day. Tea I am a big fan of tea for hot spots. The tannic acids in the tea work like cortisone and have a soothing effect. Apply a wet, warm black or green tea bag to the hot spot, and hold for four to five minutes. Then put a little aloe vera gel on the spot. Do this twice a day for three days. I really like the combination of plain old black tea and the gel from an aloe vera plant. Some people have had great success using a strong infusion of mint tea. Simply prepare a pot of boiling water, drop in a mint tea bag or loose tea, and let it steep for about

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also plays a role, because when honey is diluted by fluids from a wound, an enzyme is activated that produces hydrogen peroxide, an important antibacterial agent. 20 minutes. Let the tea cool on its own or pop it in the fridge, then bathe the hot spot frequently. The mint infusion is very soothing, and some swear that the spot seems to disappear overnight. Plantain This common broad-leafed “weed” might be growing in your own back yard. Plantain reduces redness, inflammation, and itching. Simply take a leaf, chop it up, mash it into a paste, then apply the paste to the hot spot. It generally works very quickly for rashes, lesions, pimples, and other raw areas. Goldenseal Another remedy to consider is goldenseal, which is a member of the buttercup family. You can use the extract or purchase capsules from a health food store and apply the powder directly to your dog’s hot spot. It is a natural antibiotic and is used to stop infections and kill poisons in the body. Manuka honey Dr. Peter Molan MBE, a professor in Biochemistry at the University of Waikato in New Zealand, has been researching the healing properties of honey since 1981. Honey’s acidity or pH has been found to be low enough to hinder or even prevent the growth of many types of bacteria. It may be that honey’s ability to absorb water from a wound deprives bacteria of the moisture it needs to thrive. Hydrogen peroxide

Honey’s UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) should be considered too. UMF is a phytochemically-derived antibacterial property found in some strains of Manuka honey. Honeys must be tested for this special antibacterial property. A UMF rating of 10 is the minimum recognized for having beneficial healing properties, and the term “UMF” on the label is a guarantee that the honey you have purchased has this antibacterial property. Homeopathic remedies — Sulphur and Rhus tox The homeopathic remedy Sulphur (30C) is used for all kinds of skin ailments. If your dog has hot spots, this might be just what she needs. Rhux tox (30C), meanwhile, is used for extremely irritated and red skin. Before using homeopathic remedies, however, you really need to do your homework and look at your dog’s symptoms. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in homeopathy. See recipes on page 14.

Simple Healing Salve for Hot Spots Ingredients /3 cup first pressed/extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon grated beeswax 1 teaspoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon shea butter 15 drops calendula essential oil 15 drops lavender essential oil 10 d rops vitamin E oil (a natural antioxidant preservative)

Instructions Use organic ingredients whenever possible. Combine all ingredients in a small pot, over low heat, until they have just melted. Make sure you stir well. Pour the mixture into a small dark or opaque glass container, and allow the salve to cool completely before applying to your dog’s hot spot. This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled, and different herbs can be used if you wish.

Coat Booster Balls Ingredients 1½ cups rolled oats ½ cup coconut flour ¼ cup carob powder 1½ tablespoons chia seeds ¼ cup coconut oil 1 cup almond butter 2 whole eggs 1 teaspoon pure vanilla

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Instructions The ingredients in this treat recipe support good skin health. Choose organic whenever possible. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients and ensure they are well incorporated. Form small balls of dough with your hands and place on cookie sheet. Bake for ten minutes and cool completely before serving. Store in a Ziploc bag or airtight container, in the fridge or freezer. This recipe can also be prepared as s a “raw” whole food treat. Simply skip the baking process. The balls can be rolled in unsweetened, desiccated coconut before serving. Store in a Ziploc bag or airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Information about ingredients • Oats support healthy skin and hair; one of the key ways they do this is by supporting your dog’s gastrointestinal system and helping remove toxins from the body. • Chia seeds nourish skin from the inside out, because their high levels of Omega-3 help combat chronic skin inflammation. • Coconut, organic and unsweetened, contains medium-chain saturated fats, which are transformed into energy and contain special properties that act as anti-inflammatory agents to decrease bacterial growth, irritation, and inflammation. According to Washington State’s Bastyr University of Natural Sciences, eating raw coconut can reduce the severity of bacterial and inflammatory skin conditions.

• Almonds contain the entire vitamin E family, tocopherols and tocotrienols. Alpha-tocopherol is one of the keys to healthy skin and coat. • Eggs are like a one-ingredient recipe for great skin and coats. Many consider eggs the number one food for hair, giving it strength and luster. Eggs contain lutein, which helps keep skin well hydrated and plays an important role in tissue repair. The zinc in eggs also supports skin health and helps promote a shiny coat. Egg yolks are a valuable source of biotin, a B vitamin sometimes referred to as vitamin H or vitamin B7, which also helps promote healthy skin and coats. Hair loss, skin irritation, lesions and fungus can result from a biotin deficiency. Biotin/vitamin H can be effective in treating allergic reactions and skin conditions. Eggs contain vitamin A, which helps repair cell damage and keeps skin healthy and coats glowing. • Carob’s vitamin E supports skin health, and it has antiviral and antibacterial properties.

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF

MOLECULAR

IODINE Whether in real life or on your favorite medical drama, you’ve probably seen iodine. This amber-colored liquid has been used for decades in hospitals, veterinary clinics and households to reverse and prevent infection. What you may not know is that this popular antiseptic contains a substance called “molecular iodine” that, while present in only trace amounts, works to combat microorganisms that can harm your animal companion.

What is molecular iodine, and why are so many veterinarians recommending it for their canine and feline patients? By Herb Moskowitz, DDS

bacterial resistance. ioRinse, a patented I2 oral rinse, was university-tested for its effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. Compared to other rinses recommended by the American Dental Association, it was the only rinse found to be fully effective. Subsequent studies have shown it to be the only COVID rinse proven to be effective in the presence of saliva.

Because I2 is so rapidly effective against periodontal pathogens, its use has become commonplace in dental offices throughout the US. It is used in-office as a pre-procedural rinse Placebo Molecular Iodine treated and for subgingival irrigation. Thousands of dental offices A “SUPER IODINE” sell or recommend ioRinse RTU to their patients for daily, at-home rinsing to help Unlike its cousin povidone iodine, the control periodontal disease. These offices amber-colored version used to clean are seeing far better periodontal treatment surgical sites, molecular iodine (I2) is outcomes since their patients have been truly a “super iodine”. This non-staining, using I2 rinses, irrigants, and gels. antimicrobial agent has powerful, broad-spectrum activity against viruses, bacteria, fungi and spores. I2 is so safe for I2 FOR PETS animals and humans that it is considered Two recent clinical studies of dogs an essential nutrient, required for the provided dramatic support for using a prevention of iodine-deficiency diseases, nutritional quantity of I2 as a daily pet such as hypothyroidism. drinking water additive to control dental plaque. Controlling dental plaque is the Recently, I2 solutions have been key factor in preventing and treating developed that are effective, safe to use, periodontal disease and associated tooth and do not permit the development of loss. It is especially important because

by age two, 80% of dogs and cats have developed periodontal disease. The studies showed an average reduction in dental plaque of 44% compared to the placebo-treated group over one month (see photos at left). Added to water, I2 is 177% more effective than brushing every two days, and 444% more effective than brushing weekly. Using I2 daily was even more effective than veterinariansupervised brushing every single day! ioVet-ORAL is an innovative, patented, I2 pet drinking water additive now available for dogs and cats! This additive provides pets with healthier mouths and fresher breath. Your pet doesn't have to suffer from gum disease and tooth loss. Visit www.iotechinternational.com website to learn more about this and other innovative I2 products, and to conveniently order. You’ll be providing your animal with the same innovative technology that thousands of dentists rely on to control periodontal disease. iotechinternational.com

Dr. Herb Moskowitz is the Chairman and Co-Founder of ioTech International. He is the co-author of ioTech's U.S. patent and global patent applications. He previously founded and served as Chairman and CEO of Advanced Tissue Sciences and Life Medical Sciences, two publicly traded medical technology companies. He has also practiced clinical dentistry for more than 25 years and is a graduate of the University of Tennessee Dental School. Animal Wellness

NATURAL SUPPLEMENT

Turmeric — a supplement worth considering for your dog By Theresa W. Fossum, DVM, MS. PhD, Diplomate ACVS

A spice renowned for its color and flavor, turmeric offers noteworthy health benefits to dogs as well as humans.

If you are a fan of curry, you have probably heard of turmeric. Also referred to as curcumin, which refers to the key active ingredient that gives this spice its distinct color and flavor, turmeric is a plant in the ginger family that is native to south Asia. In India, this centuriesold plant is commonly used for skin and digestive issues as well as aches and pains. Turmeric offers a variety of wellness benefits to dogs as well as humans, making it a supplement that’s definitely worth consideration.

TURMERIC’S POTENTIAL HEALING BENEFITS Turmeric has been recommended for reducing chronic inflammation in humans and dogs1 and may help canines with mobility issues associated with aging or disease. The same

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article1 cited Dr. Randy J. Horwitz, medical director the Arizona Center of Integrative Medicine and assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Arizona, as saying that turmeric is “one the most potent natural anti-inflammatories available”. Turmeric can also help with anxiety and senility, and may even have a positive effect on some cancers. Although there is so far very little research on the use of turmeric in dogs, one study looked at the effects of turmeric root and rosemary leaf on canine cancer cell growth in cell cultures.2 While additional research is needed, the study suggested that turmeric root and rosemary leaf had a synergistic effect in killing certain tumor cell lines. Another author has suggested that the heat used in producing kibble generates carcinogenic chemical compounds, which turmeric supplements can counteract.3

Hint: It’s safe to give turmeric to dogs in reasonable doses; in fact, it is often added to kibble to enhance its color.

caution in animals with a history of bleeding disorders. Reports have indicated that turmeric may be beneficial for people with diabetes by stabilizing blood glucose levels; if your dog is diabetic, however, talk to your veterinarian before adding this (or any) supplements to his diet.

HOW MUCH TURMERIC SHOULD I GIVE MY DOG?

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TURMERIC? Adverse side effects are uncommon when turmeric is given in appropriate amounts. If they do occur, they may include gallbladder issues, dizziness, bruising, upset stomach and/or nausea, and iron deficiency. Turmeric stimulates gallbladder flow by increasing the organ’s contractions; it may be beneficial for some gallbladder diseases but should be avoided if there is a history or potential for gallstones. Turmeric may also delay blood clotting and should therefore be used with

Hint: Iron deficiency is associated with the binding of ferric iron to turmeric in the gut when high doses are given.4

As with most supplements, the dosage of turmeric a dog should receive depends on his or her weight. Obviously, there is no one-size-fitsall, given that different breeds can weigh as little as a pound or two up to 150 pounds or more. I generally recommend giving turmeric powder to dogs because you can measure out exactly how much he should receive. Turmeric capsules give you less ability to administer a specific amount. Turmeric powder can be made into a paste (mixed with lecithin, MCT oil, or olive oil) or added to your dog’s food. If you are adding it to dry kibble, moisten the kibble first and then mix the powder in. Following are the recommended guidelines for adding a powdered form of turmeric to your dog’s food, up to three times a day. I would suggest you

start with one or two doses at the low end, and increase them once you find your dog tolerates it. • 1-10 lbs: 1/16 to 1/8 tsp • 10-20 lbs: 1/8 tsp to ¼ tsp • 20-50 lbs: ¼ tsp. to 1 tsp • 50-100 lbs: 1 tsp. to 2 tsp • More than 100 lbs: 2 tsp

Hint: Most turmeric capsules have been formulated for humans and may contain higher amounts of turmeric than dogs can typically tolerate.

While more research needs to be done on the benefits of turmeric in dogs, it’s certainly a supplement worth adding to your canine companion’s health regime. Talk to your holistic or integrative veterinarian about what turmeric might be able to do for your dog, especially if he’s older and/or has mobility issues, or is undergoing treatment for cancer.

Waggoner LL: Spice it up! If your dog suffers from chronic inflammation or stiffness, try adding turmeric to his diet, Herbal Medicine, Dec 2014

L evine CB, Bayle J, Biourge V, And Wakshlag JJ: Cellular effects of turmeric root and rosemary leaf extract on canine neoplastic cell lines, BMC Veterinary Research 2017: 13:388

T weed V: Pet supplement guide: Essential nutrients for optimal health in cats and dogs of all ages. Natural Pet, Nutrition for dogs and cats. March 2014

Smith TJ, Ashar BH: Iron deficiency anemia due to high-dose turmeric. Cureus 2019:11:1; e3858

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keto diet Why a

is a good choice for your dog

A keto diet can offer multiple benefits to dogs, from weight loss to better skin health to improved cognitive function. It may even help with cancer. You probably know someone who is on a keto diet, and might be wondering if it could have similar health benefits for your dog. Read on to learn why keto pet food is the up and coming thing for our canine companions.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A KETO DIET? “Keto is a metabolic state in which your body switches from primarily burning glucose and carbohydrates as fuel, to fat and ketones,” says Paul Raybould of Visionary Keto Pet Foods. “This way of eating typically involves consuming a low carbohydrate, moderate protein, and higher fat diet. When you do this, your body starts to increase fat breakdown, which produces ketones and puts you into a state known as ketosis. A keto/ ketogenic diet can help you lose fat, lower your appetite, improve mental focus, and more.”

range of additional health benefits. Along with facilitating weight loss, this low-carb, high-fat approach can help reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, boost energy levels, enhance skin and coat health, improve digestion, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, and even help treat epilepsy.

KETOGENIC PET FOOD

KETO AND YOUR DOG

Visionary Keto Pet Foods is a cuttingedge company that formulates their own line of ketogenic foods for dogs. “We searched high and low for a commercially available, low carb, ketogenic dog food, but couldn’t find one,” says Paul. “So we created our own.” The line includes dry, freeze-dried, and raw frozen selections, along with freezedried treats, all made from top quality ingredients. “Our premium keto dry food is high in fat (40%) and protein (60%), and very low in digestible carbs (less than 1g per cup),” says Paul.

Research is ongoing, but feeding your dog a ketogenic diet may offer him a

“We were inspired by the work done by our non-profit, KetoPet, which focuses

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on improving canine health through nutrition,” he adds. “It was founded in 2014 to give shelter dogs with terminal cancer a ‘forever home’ and save them from being euthanized. KetoPet has rescued dozens of dogs from kill shelters and placed them on a ketogenic diet as a form of cancer therapy.” Research has shown that because cancer cells feed on glucose from carbohydrates, a low-carb diet can starve these malignant cells and slow cancer growth. “We found that a low carb, ketogenic diet not only improved outcomes for dogs with cancer and other illnesses, but that it also supports optimal health and well-being for all dogs. Remarkably, 55% of the dogs who graduated from the KetoPet program are still going for long walks, eating a raw keto diet, and experiencing a quality of life far beyond their original prognosis. We now believe that a ketogenic diet is the optimal diet for all adult dogs.”

visionarypet.com

TECHNOLOGY

helps your veterinarian provide optimal care for your dog or cat Artificial intelligence (AI) is a valuable tool that can help your veterinarian do her job with greater speed and precision, freeing her up to focus on complex tasks and concentrate on the welfare of your dog or cat.

D gs Cats

BY SUNGWON LIM, PhD

Artificial intelligence (AI) is fairly new to the animal health sector. Over the past decade, however, researchers, scientists, and entrepreneurs have begun to introduce machine learning and AI into veterinary health, with groundbreaking results. Of course, nothing can replace the expertise of a good veterinarian when it comes to diagnosing and treating diseases in animals. What AI does is help streamline your vet’s job, and that gives her more time and freedom to devote to your dog or cat’s well-being. Let’s look at how AI is used in veterinary settings, and how it positively impacts your dog or cat.

have been hardest hit by the shortage, even lucrative private veterinary practices are struggling to find and keep veterinary radiologists. AI can fill the gap left by these shortages.

HOW DO VETERINARIANS USE AI?

AI is extremely well suited to radiology because pictures really do contain a thousand words. X-rays are filled with data, and AI is able to quickly compare previous and current images, prioritize the data, and analyze images. Veterinary radiologists are still needed to read complex images, but AI can streamline the analysis process, filtering out mundane and uninteresting x-rays so that veterinarians can concentrate on the images that most need attention and the expertise of a trained clinician.

Imaging Animals always need x-rays, but there are currently not enough veterinary imaging professionals to take and interpret those images. While teaching staff in universities

The good news is that AI products are available to interpret x-ray images. They involve cloud-based software that uses AI to read x-rays and interpret them quickly and inexpensively; your vet accesses it by signing into a website and uploading images. The results come back almost immediately so your vet can move on with the process of diagnosis and treatment.

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WHAT IS

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE?

AI is intelligence demonstrated by machines, although this doesn’t mean computers can think and learn like people. Instead, AI means that software is able to learn and make decisions — often more quickly and accurately than its human users. This makes AI the perfect tool for complex tasks that require the analysis of a large quantity of data, for example, or for the sorts of tedious, repetitive tasks that tire humans and cause them to make mistakes. In these cases, AI is much more accurate and consistent than a human could be. It’s worth noting, however, that AI is not infallible. There may be bias in data sets, for example, and predictions are not always 100% accurate, but — in the way all technology is constantly being improved — data scientists are constantly improving their models and algorithms by adding real-world data. And, of course, your highly-trained vet also has a role to play in flagging any diagnosis that doesn’t seem correct!

Data analysis Thanks to continuous improvements in modern medicine, veterinarians are inundated with data from devices, software, and other sources. While more is certainly better, it can also be overwhelming; large datasets are difficult for humans to read. They also might contain irrelevant data or false patterns. Also, when faced with a firehose of data, a human being is

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likely to miss the big picture. Not so with AI, which never tires, and can sift through large quantities of data to find complex patterns, unprecedented correlations, or small abnormalities humans cannot see. For example: Consider some recent work done by veterinarians at the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, who worked with a computer engineer to develop an algorithm tasked with finding Addison’s disease in dogs. Addison’s is a rare disorder, potentially fatal because it mimics the symptoms of other diseases. This means it’s often misdiagnosed, going undetected and untreated for years. Dogs with Addison’s present with vague symptoms that look like other conditions, such as kidney and intestinal disease. Normally, when a sick patient first visits the vet, routine blood tests are ordered — a complete blood count and serum biochemical profile. Because Addison’s patients lack critical hormones, their tests often come back with subtle irregularities that are frequently confused with other conditions. The UC Davis team’s algorithm uses AI to analyze blood work data and detect complex patterns unique to Addison’s. The researchers used the test results of 1,000 dogs to train their algorithm to detect the patterns that signal Addison’s. The algorithm functions as an alert system, using information from routine screening tests to flag patients in which Addison’s disease is likely, and inform your veterinarian that further investigation is necessary. It has been 99% effective in diagnosing new patients. Diagnosis and prediction When it comes to life-threatening diseases, it is critical to catch them before they develop. This may sound impossible, but with the right data, vets can make educated predictions about which animals will develop a disease.

X-rays are filled with data, and AI is able to quickly compare previous and current images, prioritize the data, and analyze images.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats is a good example — it’s not reversible, and often, by the time it presents, the patient has already suffered kidney damage. It also tends to affect older cats, so by the time a veterinarian catches a case of CKD, the cat’s quality of life is likely to be severely impacted. If the occurrence of CKD can be predicted, however, the patient can be treated before kidney damage occurs, and the cat’s health and quality of life can be dramatically improved. For example: Researchers recently developed an algorithm to predict CKD before a cat gets sick. It uses AI to predict whether a cat will develop the disease. Trained on Electronic Health Records (EHR) from 20 years of vet visits, the algorithm looked for specific factors that contributed to CKD in more than 100,000 cats across breeds, geographical areas, and ages from one year old to more than 22. Using this dataset, the team built a recurrent neural network (RNN) that examines blood work for four factors contributing to CKD: creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, urine specific gravity, and age. The RNN was able to predict whether a cat will develop CKD within the next two years with greater than 95% accuracy. The false positives were very low — a huge benefit for vets who have traditionally dealt with CKD as a difficult-to-detect disease. This model can quickly

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be implemented in hospital practice or diagnostic laboratory software to directly support veterinarians in making clinical decisions regarding sick cats. It’s important to remember that while AI is excellent at crunching numbers and digesting a large amount of data quickly, it doesn’t do well at some of the tasks at which humans excel. Creativity, problem solving without a defined training dataset, and of course, bedside manner, are all human skills that AI cannot duplicate. For this reason, AI is an excellent partner to your veterinarian. By taking the pressure of diagnosis, prediction, or data analysis off the vet, AI allows her to really focus on your dog or cat’s health problems, decide on courses of treatment, and make sure he has the best quality of life possible.

KNOW YOUR CAT

Is your cat

happy?

By Sally E. Bahner

A happy cat is a healthy cat. Find out whether or not your kitty is happy, and how you can help her feel better.

Your cat trots towards you, chirping a greeting, tail straight up in the air. Later, she sits in a sunny windowsill eagerly watching and chattering at the birds outside. These are all clear signs of a happy cat. But given the somewhat elusive nature of cats, the signs of a contented — or discontented — kitty may sometimes be more subtle. Find out if your own cat is happy, and how you can improve her well-being if she isn’t. Although the above signs of happiness are quite obvious, other indications are more subtle. A cat with her ears erect, whiskers forward, and eyes wide open is a happy cat engaged with her surroundings. Conversely, a cat that isn’t feeling well will be lethargic and uninterested in what’s going on. So it’s important to know what’s normal for your cat, and be alert to subtle changes in her behavior or demeanor (see sidebar on next page for signs of feline depression).

YOUR CAT’S PERSONALITY PLAYS A PART A good gauge of your kitty’s happiness is her personality. Is she shy or gregarious? Does she startle easily? Does she interact with others in the home or keep to herself? Is her personality compatible with your household? If you have active kids and other animals, with lots of coming and going, is your cat comfortable with all that busy-ness or does she seem overwhelmed by hiding or showing signs of aggression? Conversely, a more adventurous and outgoing cat in a quiet household might get into “trouble” due to boredom — climbing curtains, getting into cupboards, or trying to dart out the door when you open it. She could benefit from more playtime or a companion, especially if she’s alone all day.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR CAT HAPPIER Instilling happiness in your cat involves creating an environment and lifestyle that makes her feel safe and comfortable, and being aware of the body language and behavior that reflect that

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level of comfort. Cats may not want constant attention, but they thrive on comfort and safety. They like knowing you’re nearby to say hello when they walk into the room. • If you have a busy household and your cat seems stressed by

it, make sure she has a safe haven to retreat to for peace and quiet — this could be a spare room or low-traffic area with a comfy bed and some favorite toys. Make sure her litter box and food and water bowls are also in a quiet spot, where she won’t be disturbed by kids or other animals.

• For unhappiness arising from boredom, add some

environmental stimulation to your cat’s surroundings. Cat trees, interactive toys or feeders, access to windowsills, regular play sessions, and extra attention can all help her feel happier and more contented.

• Cats differ in how much attention they want from their

people, which means too much or too little interaction can negatively impact their level of happiness and contentment. Here’s how to ensure your cat is getting just the right amount of human interaction: • L et her take the lead. Acknowledge her presence and

offer pats, but don’t force her into an interaction.

• Give her a choice. When you stop petting her, does she

want more or walk away?

• L earn her favorite areas for petting. Chances are, you

can’t go wrong with head and neck scritches, or a gentle stroke along her back.

• Talk to her, and use her name. Cats are known to mostly

vocalize around humans, so respond in kind, either by echoing her meows before asking questions: “Really? Tell me more!”

• Never punish your cat for unwanted behavior. Instead,

reward good behavior with praise or a treat, such as when she uses her scratching post.

Let your cat call the shots

Is your kitty depressed?

A U.K. study (frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2021.714143/full) determined that cats are more affectionate when they can call the shots on where they want to be petted. The researchers used the acronym CAT:

As with signs of contentment, the signs of depression in cats can be subtle. A kitty may become depressed after losing a human or animal companion, or because she has health issues that aren’t being addressed. Household changes, boredom, or a lack of environmental enrichment can also trigger depression and cause any or all of the following behavioral signs:

C Choice and Control — paying Attention to the cat’s A behavior and body language — limiting Touch primarily T to their Temporal regions —p roviding the cat with

• Consider clicker training or agility training

if you have a high energy, easily bored kitty. It can help diffuse unwanted behavior problems and deepen your relationship.

• L eash training is a safe and fun way for your kitty to enjoy the

great outdoors. It may take some patience — let her get used to wearing a harness and leash indoors before exploring outside.

• L et your cat simply hang out with you, whether she’s on the desk

while you’re working or beside you on the couch in the evening. Just your presence can be reassuring.

• Hiding or hanging out in unusual places • L ack of interest in food, play, surroundings • Poor grooming habits • Aggression • E xcessive vocalization • Litter box avoidance To help your cat, determine if the problem is physical or environmental. If she hasn’t had a check-up in a while, a trip to the veterinarian is the first step. If she gets the all-clear, think about any lifestyle or household changes that may have made your cat unhappy — this could be anything from change in your work schedule to a new addition to the family (or a loss). Holistic healing modalities such as Reiki or Tellington TTouch, or remedies such as flower essences, can help her feel better.

TREAT TIME

Pup-friendly

hot cross buns for the whole fam!

Just because they can’t have chocolate doesn’t mean our dogs have to miss out on yummy treats this Easter! Here’s an easy recipe your four-legged friend will love. Everyone loves a hot cross bun, but they’re usually not suitable for dogs. Most recipes contain raisins and sultanas, which are toxic to our canine companions. Slathering them in butter isn’t going to do your pup’s waistline any favors either. This delicious dog-friendly recipe can be shared by the entire family this Easter — four-legged members included.

a ball and place in a bowl. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and leave in a warm place to rise for an hour.

INGREDIENTS

5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200°C and lightly grease a large baking tray.

• 350 g strong white bread flour (or rice flour if intolerant to wheat), plus extra for dusting • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 20 g xylitol-free natural peanut butter • 1 tbsp honey, plus optional extra to glaze • 2 tsp fast-action dried yeast • 1 egg • 150 ml lactose-free milk • 1 small carrot, washed and grated • 80 g dried cranberries • olive oil, for greasing • 50 g plain flour (or rice flour)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Sift the bread flour and cinnamon into a bowl. Add the peanut butter and rub together with your fingertips to create a mixture resembling breadcrumbs. Make a well in the center of your breadcrumb mix and add the honey and yeast. 2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together for about 1 minute. Pour the egg and milk mixture into the well, folding and mixing until a dough is formed. (This could also be done in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.) 3. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until smooth and stretchy, then knead in the grated carrot and cranberries. Shape the dough into

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4. Remove the dough from the bowl and knead it on a floured surface, before shaping into a ball again. Return to the bowl and leave to rise for another 30 minutes.

6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Form the pieces into balls, then flatten into bun shapes and place on the prepared baking tray. 7. Now for the fun part! Mix the plain flour with 1 or 2 tablespoons water, adding it slowly and stirring in until you have a light dough. 8. Roll small pieces of the dough into ribbons and create traditional crosses on top of the buns. Or try rolling dots and decorating the buns with paw prints! 9. Once your masterpieces are ready, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until beautifully golden. 10. An optional extra touch is to lightly paint the surface of the buns with some honey before they cool, to give them a glaze. 11. Store the buns in an airtight container for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months. tails.com TOP TIP! Serve these up to the whole family so your dog doesn’t feel left out at Easter, but do take care with portion control; these are a one-off indulgence.

By Dr. Gary Pusillo

Why ultra specific processing is the key to

colostrum

Colostrum is the immune system in liquid form. It’s nature’s way of providing neonates (newborn animals) with an amazing collection of bioactive substances that enhance survival and quality of life from birth to maturity and beyond. Scientific studies have also proven the benefits of whole colostrum for adult animals.

NOT ALL COLOSTRUM PRODUCTS ARE EQUAL The importance of high quality colostrum starts with the animal’s mother. Many of the world’s commercial dairies use artificial stimulation via hormone injections to enhance milk production at the cost of the mom’s “immunity factory,” resulting in poor quality colostrum. Additionally, the use of pig plasma as colostrum replacements has spread all sorts of never-before-seen abnormalities and dysfunctional colostrum. In short, many colostrum-derived products are low in bioactive components and high in marketing hype.

USP AND QUALITY The key to high quality colostrum is ultra specific processing (USP), in which the colostrum has all undesirable substances removed while preserving all bioactive components:

Supporting the microbiome

•F irst step: Testing each received unit of colostrum from each farm for quality control items such as somatic cell count, IgG (Immunoglobulin G) concentration, antibiotic residue, synthetic hormones, pesticides, rancidity and wholesomeness. •S econd step: Removing the macroimpurities such as mucus, blood cells and other particles; microfiltration is an important part of this process. •T hird step: Using a proprietary process and filtering method with minimal heat (less than when the colostrum is first produced in the cow) to ensure maximum bioactivity of all nutritional components.

The resulting liquid for a finished product comes from combining large pools of certified colostrum from many farms, resulting in highly diverse antibodies. Liquid destined for powder is concentrated five times to 30% IgG concentration. After further processing and drying, an antibody level of at least 25% remains. This is where the addition of specific components or the concentration of specific bioactive proteins takes place.

STATE-OF-THE-ART FILTRATION METHODS McIntosh Pro Line Products has developed state-of-the-art filtration

BIOactor™ colostrum helps establish the right mix of beneficial microbiota in the large intestine. This provides an added defense against pathogens, and offers valuable metabolites to the animal. Our scientific group identified over 140 oligosaccharides in BIOactor™, which gives it powerful prebiotic activity.

techniques to create BIOactor™ colostrum, a product that’s not only pure and bioactive, but blended to allow for specific effects. For example, we easily concentrate lactoferrin and various cytokines to achieve a more efficient delivery of these components than native colostrum. BIOactor™ colostrum contains many factors that can support and modulate the immune system in various ways. Immune factors work in tandem with other colostrum components to ensure that multiple angles of protection are in place. Several immune factors in bovine colostrum have inherent antiviral and/ or antibacterial activity: lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and lysozyme. These immune factors are powerful proteins with antiviral and antibacterial properties that disrupt pathogens through several different mechanisms. By concentrating the low molecularweight proteins that enhance the efficiency of Ig absorption, and by providing other components that aid in defense against microorganisms, BIOactor™ colostrum is the perfect complement to all neonatal nutrition enhancement needs.

mcintoshproline.com Dr. Gary Pusillo is a certified professional animal scientist, and a board-certified member of the American College of Animal Nutrition. He has a BSc in animal husbandry, his Master's degree in animal production, and a PhD in animal nutrition. Dr. Pusillo is a full member of the American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS) as one of the leading private practice forensic investigators in the animal and feed industry. He is also the chief science officer for McIntosh Pro Line Products. Animal Wellness

Unwanted behaviors and nutrition Find out how certain dietary nutrients and calming supplements may curb aggression, anxiety and other unwanted behaviors in dogs.

Did you know that nutrition plays a role in canine behavior? Aggression, anxiety, begging, destructiveness, excessive barking and house soiling are just a few of the unwanted behaviors dog parents sometimes contend with. Socialization and training are definitely a big part of helping these dogs, but alterations to the diet and the addition of calming supplements can also be beneficial.

CERTAIN NUTRIENTS MAY IMPROVE PROBLEM BEHAVIORS Behavior is regulated in part by neurotransmitters and hormones; these have precursors, chemical compounds that precede them in metabolic pathways. Making these precursors more or less available may make a difference in a dog’s behavior. Tryptophan Tryptophan is the precursor of serotonin (a neurotransmitter). The presence or absence of tryptophan is thought to affect aggression and stress resistance in dogs. Tryptophan is a large neutral amino acid (LNAA) that can cross the blood-brain barrier, depending on how much free tryptophan and other LNAAs are available in the body. Increasing dietary tryptophan through supplementation can increase serotonin in the brain, which has been shown to reduce aggression and improve recovery from stress in some animals. Even though tryptophan is found in protein-

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By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM

containing foods, it is in relatively small supply compared to other LNAAs. In fact, a high fat and protein diet actually decreases the ratio of tryptophan to other LNAAs. This is why dietary supplementation of tryptophan is recommended. Tyrosine Tyrosine is a precursor of catecholamines (hormones produced by the adrenal gland) and may also affect aggression and stress resistance. Another amino acid, tryosine has been shown to have a beneficial effect on stress in humans and other animals. Along with iodine, it is also needed for adequate thyroid hormone production. Reduced amounts of tryosine can have a negative impact on thyroid hormone production, influencing metabolism, immune health and behavior, contributing to depression and aggression. Unlike tryptophan, tyrosine is usually found in high concentrations in high protein meals. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) DHA is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) with a beneficial effect on inflammation and cognition in humans and animals. Increased PUFA into the cellular membranes of the brain supports an improved flow of neurotransmitters between cells. Studies indicate that DHA-rich diets improve learning ability while diets deficient in DHA have the opposite effect. In a

large-scale study of puppies fed an enhanced-DHA diet, the pups made fewer errors during training and had a higher training performance index than puppies fed a diet containing normal quantities of DHA. Since a diet rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids, including DHA, has so many other health benefits for animals, any positive impact they may have on a dog’s behavior is an added bonus. If your dog is displaying behavioral issues, positive obedience training and behavior modification, along with a good exercise program, may all be in order. In addition (with the help of an integrative or holistic vet who can tailor a protocol specific to your dog and his needs), consider making some changes to his diet or introducing some supplements to help calm and balance him.

Calming supplements In some instances, despite a balanced, nutrient-dense diet and rigorous exercise, some dogs may still exhibit occasional signs of anxiety or restlessness. In these instances, I have found the following natural supplements to be beneficial. •O rganic holy basil (Tulsi) is an adaptogenic herb that enhances the body’s

natural response to physical and emotional stress. •L -theanine stimulates alpha brain waves that help with mental alertness, yet is

simultaneously calming. •O rganic rhodiola rosea is another adaptogen that acts in non-specific ways to

increase resistance to stress without disturbing normal biological functions. •A shwagandha (Indian ginseng) is also an adaptogen — it can help your dog’s

body better manage physical, chemical and environmental stressors. •C hamomile is a well-recognized herb with calming qualities. •5 -Hydroxytryptohan (5-HTP) is created when tryptophan converts into

serotonin, and promotes concentration and feelings of well-being. When levels of serotonin are too low, fear, aggression and anxiety can emerge. •G ABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid) is an important central nervous system

neurotransmitter. Studies show that too little GABA can contribute to feelings of panic and anxiety. •V itamin B6 supports a healthy nervous system

and mood, and helps with serotonin production.

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AT THE VET

D gs Cats By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Anesthesia, analgesia, or sedation WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES, AND WHAT MIGHT YOUR DOG OR CAT NEED?

Whether your dog or cat is going in for dental work, a spay/neuter op, or some other procedure, he’ll need to be anesthetized or sedated for the duration. An important part of veterinary medicine is the ability to chemically restrain patients, when needed, for both minor procedures as well as more complicated surgical interventions. This is also done to relieve and ideally prevent pain. However, many people fear having their animals “put under”, likely because they don’t fully understand the medications being used. From anesthesia to analgesia to sedation, this article presents an overview of some of the methods veterinarians use to immobilize their patients and make procedures safer for the staff as well as the animals.

ANESTHESIA General anesthesia renders the patient unconscious. In other words, the animal is asleep and unaware of anything being done to him. Anesthesia does not prevent pain, so once the dog or cat awakens, she can and will feel pain unless analgesics are also administered (more on these later). General anesthesia is given at various levels, from light to deep.

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• Light anesthesia is suitable for procedures such as dental cleanings and the removal of small warts or tumors. • Deeper levels of anesthesia are needed as the perceived pain associated with the procedure increases, and when the veterinary team does not want the animal to move. Deeper general anesthesia is used for common surgical procedures such as a spay or neuter, removing bladder stones, abdominal biopsies, and orthopedic procedures. A general goal of anesthesia is to take the patient to a level that’s deep enough to achieve the aim of the procedure, while at the same time keeping it light enough to maintain stable vital signs. When people have concerns about the safety of anesthesia, it often makes them hesitant or fearful about consenting to procedures. While modern anesthetics are very safe compared to the “old days,” no procedure is without risk. While exceptionally rare, both people and animals, young and old, healthy and unhealthy, can die under anesthesia. In order to minimize the risk of death or other anesthetic complications, the following guidelines should be kept in mind:

For elective procedures, the dog or cat should be metabolically stable and as healthy as possible. The relevant diseases or other conditions should ideally be cured or at least stabilized by the procedure, rendering them insignificant as far as any anesthetic risk is concerned.

Preoperative evaluations should be performed in most animals. The correct anesthetic is administered at the correct dosage for the dog or cat’s weight, age, and health. Only the amount of anesthetic needed for the procedure is used.

The patient must be carefully monitored both during and after the procedure, by both a live person (veterinary assistant or technician) and by electronic monitoring equipment (typically an EKG and pulse oximetry at minimum). To reduce the amount of general anesthesia needed, a preanesthetic sedative is usually given 15 to 30 minutes prior to the procedure (some sedatives can be reversed upon completion of the anesthesia, when desired).

DID YOU KNOW? General anesthesia can be given intravenously or by endotracheal tube or mask (for gas anesthesia). Usually, gas anesthesia is preferred for longer procedures, while either gas or IV anesthesia can be used for shorter procedures.

Considerations for older animals Old age is not a disease, and our senior dogs and cats also deserve proper treatment, which may involve sedation, anesthesia, and analgesia. No animal should be denied care simply because of age! Anesthesia/sedation/ analgesia is safe in older animals as long as you remember the “3 IFS”: 1. IF the animal is properly evaluated, usually involving an exam and lab work such as blood, urine, or cardiac (EKG) testing, ideally before the procedure if the animal allows it 2. IF the lowest level of the safest medication is used 3. IF the dog or cat is continuously monitored by at least one assistant and an electronic monitor to watch vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation.

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Local anesthesia is injectable anesthesia (usually with lidocaine or similar medication) given locally at the site of tissue injury. Most commonly, this is the site of the surgical incision, or the site of a cut or injury to the skin and soft tissue. Local anesthesia can be combined with sedation or used on its own, as in the case of removing a small lesion such as a wart in a very calm or older animals (more active dogs and cats typically require sedation plus a local anesthetic for minor lesion removal). Using local anesthesia minimizes the level of sedation needed. DID YOU KNOW? Local anesthesia, unlike general anesthesia, is analgesic and relieves pain for several hours following administration. Because local anesthesia is temporary, however, an analgesic medication is typically also used to prevent pain when the local anesthetic wears off.

Regional anesthesia is a special form of local anesthesia, in which a certain part of the body, such as a paw or the pelvis, is anesthetized. Another example is the use of a selected nerve block, often utilized for dental procedures such as extractions.

SEDATION For many minor procedures, the animal does not need to be completely immobile or unconscious. In these instances, simple sedation is adequate and preferred. Sedation involves administering a medication, usually intravenously or subcutaneously (under the skin) to cause the dog or cat to relax and become very easy to handle. In my practice, procedures for which we use sedation include: adiography R The removal of small, superficial tumors and skin lesions Skin biopsy procedures IV catheterization (in some patients)

rawing blood in fractious or aggressive animals D Enemas Splint/bandage changes Urinary catheterization procedures. Remember that sedated animals are not totally asleep but only relaxed; depending upon the medications used, the sedation can be quickly reversed upon completion of the procedure and the dog or cat will be fully awake and ready for the trip home shortly after the procedure (a benefit over general anesthesia, which requires a longer recovery time).

ANALGESIA Analgesics are given to relieve (and ideally prevent) pain — in fact “analgesia” means “without pain”. These mediations are useful in a variety of situations, including trauma, surgery, and medical problems such as arthritis and cancer. Basically, any time pain occurs or is expected to occur, analgesics are a must. In general, there are two broad classes of analgesics: opioid (and similar) medications and NSAIDS (non-steroidals). Occasionally, steroids such as prednisone may relieve pain but are typically not selected in most cases due to side effects and the fact that the other two types of analgesics provide stronger pain relief. Animals that may need long-term analgesia for pain relief from chronic diseases should undergo frequent examination as well as blood and urine testing (every three to six months, especially in older animals, and depending on the condition) to allow for early diagnosis of any side effects such as GI irritation or kidney or liver problems. Animals that already have these problems can usually use these medications safely, but the dosage may need to be lowered to minimize side effects. DID YOU KNOW? Once stable, dogs and cats can often have their analgesics decreased or stopped if natural therapies are also utilized.

Pre-emptive analgesia This term is used to describe the desire to pre-empt or prevent pain. Ideally, if pain is expected from a procedure such as surgery, analgesics are given before, as well as during (if needed) and after the procedure. Giving analgesics before the procedure can prevent pain impulses from reaching the brain and conditioning the animal to perceive pain (if NSAIDS are used pre-emptively, they can also reduce the inflammation that also contributes to pain). By using pre-emptive analgesia, pain is prevented before it can be recognized, which is always preferred over having to treat pain!

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Anesthesia, sedation, and analgesia are commonlyemployed techniques in veterinary medicine. They are very safe if used correctly, and most animals do not experience side effects. I always recommend that you chat with your veterinarian prior to any procedure to know which medications are selected and why, as well as their side effects. Finally. remember that even when general anesthesia is used, your animal should go home fully awake unless mild sedation is needed. No dog or cat should go home half awake or “drunk”. In my practice, patients awaken within minutes of a procedure, and are as awake and alert as when they first entered the hospital.

FORWARD PLANNING

product reviews Straight from the Animal Wellness Academy New Product Showcase,check out some of our

hand-picked favorites! Microbiome support made simple! Did you know you can help support and maintain your dog or cat’s microbiome by feeding him a well-balanced and nutritionally adequate diet, supplemented with specific prebiotic fibers and viable probiotics? It may sound complicated, but not when you give him NutriSource food, along with the company’s Good 4 Life supplement pack. These products offer a wide spectrum of microbiome-supporting ingredients, including live probiotic strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Enterococcus faecium, selenium yeast, the prebiotic mannan oligosaccharide (MOS), and dried fermentation extracts of Aspergillus oryzae, Trichoderma longibrachiatum and Bacillus subtilis. A healthy microbiome helps ensure a healthy animal!

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Safe, digestible dog chews Dog chews abound, but many are made from questionable ingredients, and can also be downright dangerous, often causing oral injuries or intestinal blockages. For a safe, long-lasting dog chew, look no further than the recently-launched DigestaBone™ from ChewAs Happiness. This sustainable, fair trade, high quality product is made from edible ingredients, which means it won’t hurt your dog if he ingests it. Out of 32 dog chews studied, in fact, the DigestaBone was one of only two that proved to be highly digestible and degradable, making it both safe and beneficial for dogs. Comes in two sizes, and also two flavors — chicken and whitefish.

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Interested in anesthesia-free dental cleaning? One of the top reasons people hesitate to take their dogs and cats to the veterinarian for dental cleanings is that they’re wary of having their animals “put under” for the procedure. If you’re among these pet parents, and/or if anesthesia might be risky for your dog or cat, depending on his health status, anesthesia-free dental cleaning is an alternative to consider. Located in Denver, Colorado, K-9 Smiles offers safe, affordable and preventive dental care to regional dogs and cats, without the use of anesthesia. Their skilled team uses gentle, compassionate techniques, and is also dedicated to educating clients on dental health for their dogs and cats.

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Visit AnimalWellnessAcademy.org to save on more high quality products, and gain 24/7/365 access to the most reliable and trustworthy pet information!

DO IT YOURSELF

By Christine Caplan, CVT

Good dental health means caring for your dog's teeth and gums, and that includes brushing. Here’s how to make a safe and effective doggy toothpaste using common natural ingredients.

Maintaining your dog’s oral health is a priority, since dental disease can have a profoundly negative effect on his overall well-being. Implementing a dental care regimen for your dog should include regular brushing. This article teaches you how to make your own safe, simple, and effective doggy toothpaste.

GETTING STARTED

The goal of making your own dog toothpaste is to create a mixture that has a pleasant texture and ingredients your canine buddy enjoys. For example, mint is popular, but you want to make sure your dog enjoys this flavor before using it.

INGREDIENTS TO USE The advantage of making your dog’s toothpaste from scratch is that you can use simple natural ingredients that may already be in your kitchen or are easy to acquire. These ingredients are commonly used to reduce bacteria and fight bad breath: • Mint (fresh) • Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) • Coconut oil • Parsley (fresh or dried) • Honey

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID HOW TO BRUSH YOUR DOG’S TEETH Your dog’s toothpaste will only work as well as your bushing technique! Place the bristles of the brush at a 45° angle against the tooth and alongside the gingival margin to enable them to eliminate built-up tartar. If your dog is resistant to having his teeth brushed, turn to page 52 for tips on training him to accept and even enjoy it. You can use a small human toothbrush, or buy a brush that’s designed for use in dogs. A finger brush provided by your veterinarian is another alternative.

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Along with xylitol (see sidebar on next page), steer clear of the following ingredients, even if you think your dog might enjoy the taste: • Sugary foods • Salty foods • Fruits with pits or seeds • Onions and chives

3 DIY VET-APPROVED TOOTHPASTE RECIPES For each recipe, combine the ingredients and mix well to form a smooth consistency. These toothpastes can be stored in an airtight container for up to three weeks.

Homemade Toothpaste • 2 tablespoons baking soda • 2 tablespoons coconut oil • 1 drop of peppermint essential oil (optional)* —From The Forever Dog: Surprising New Science to Help Your Canine Companion Live Younger, Healthier, and Longer, by Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Shaw Becker with Kristin Loberg (Collins, 2021). *Use only the highest quality, therapeutic-grade essential oils — they’ll cost more, but cheap brands aren’t pure, and often contain harmful additives that can be toxic to your dog.

The goal…is to create a mixture that has a pleasant texture and ingredients your canine buddy enjoys.

Minty Dog Toothpaste • ¼ cup coconut oil • 2 tablespoons baking soda • 6 or 7 mint leaves • 1 teaspoon homemade or sodium-free broth Fantastic Fangs with Turmeric • 1 cup room temperature or softened coconut oil • ½ teaspoon turmeric • Pinch of dried or fresh parsley • ½ teaspoon organic kelp flakes — From Veterinarians.org.

By making your own doggy toothpaste, you have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what goes into it. It’s economical and natural, and helps freshen your dog’s breath. Best of all, it helps keep his teeth and gums healthy, reducing the risk of dental disease.

CAN’T I JUST USE HUMAN TOOTHPASTE? The answer is no. According to The Forever Dog, a new book authored by renowned veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker and Rodney Habib, many human toothpastes contain xylitol, a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs. Dr. Becker counsels dog caretakers to use oral health products designed specifically for canines. You can buy products that come in a variety of flavors that most dogs love, such as chicken. Alternatively, you can use common natural ingredients to make your own doggy toothpaste.

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Dental disease affects most dogs and cats, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Take a holistic approach to preventive care by following these five steps to a healthier mouth.

D gs Cats

Top 5

WAYS TO PREVENT DENTAL DISEASE IN DOGS AND CATS By Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT

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Dental disease is extremely common in dogs and cats, and can be very painful and damaging when left untreated. Infection in your animal’s mouth can have far-reaching effects on many of her organs, including the kidneys, liver, lungs and heart. Fortunately, there are many things you can do at home to prevent dental disease from developing and progressing, and help keep your dog or cat healthy, happy and comfortable.

CHECK HER MOUTH EVERY WEEK

You are your dog or cat’s best advocate when it comes to protecting against dental disease. Weekly oral exams can help you prevent dental disease from developing.

Safety tip: When checking his teeth and gums, remember to consider his comfort and your safety. Avoid grabbing his nostrils or the bridge of his nose, as this makes it difficult for him to breathe. It’s also important to keep your fingers out of his mouth, to prevent him from accidentally biting you.

Begin your dog or cat’s oral exam by gently lifting his upper lip to look at the teeth in the front and on the side of his mouth. Then pull the corner of his mouth back to reveal the top and bottom teeth further back in the mouth. Repeat on both sides. Here are few things you are looking for and what to do if you find them: •T artar and calculus – Tartar can range in color from white to dark brown, and needs to be removed by your veterinarian. However, daily brushing will prevent further accumulation. •G ingivitis – This issue often starts as a thin red line along the gumline. When severe, the redness can cover a wide area. If the gingivitis is mild, try brushing your dog or cat’s teeth daily, and alert your veterinarian. •F ractured teeth – When caught early, fractured teeth can often be saved. Be sure to alert your veterinarian as soon as possible. •T ooth resorption – This problem affects cats more than dogs, and appears as a bright red area where the gum meets the tooth. It’s a very painful condition that your veterinarian can treat. For ideal oral health, your dog or cat should visit your veterinarian at least every six months for a thorough oral examination. Ideally, it’s a good idea to begin daily brushing and weekly oral exams as early in your dog or cat’s life possible, in order to identify dental disease early on, as well as expose him to these practices at a young age. But it’s never too late to start, no matter what your animal’s age. Animal Wellness

GIVE HER SOMETHING TO CHEW ON

Raw bones can help support dental health in your animal, but keep in mind that they only work on certain surfaces. Depending on the type of bone, they can also cause tooth fractures in dogs, although the incidence is lower in cats. Dogs most commonly fracture the canines and the upper fourth premolars, while cats more often fracture the tips of their canines. Small fractures in tooth enamel may also occur. Slab fractures, in which a sheet of enamel shears off, are most commonly seen in the upper fourth premolars. Raw chicken, turkey or duck necks are less likely to cause fractures than shank or knuckle bones. If you give your animal raw bones, check her teeth weekly for possible fractures. Finding fractures early gives your veterinarian the option of placing a bonded sealant on the tooth, possibly preventing the need for extraction. As an alternative to raw bones, pet products designed specifically for chewing are a popular option. While shopping, keep in mind that any material harder than your dog or cat’s tooth enamel may cause damage to her teeth.

Safety tip: One way to test if a product is soft enough for her chewing pleasure is to hit the product against your

kneecap; if it hurts, it’s too hard for her teeth. You can also test the chew toy by pressing your nail into it; there should be some give.

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A few safe chew toys and treats to consider include:

• Kong • Toppl • Rubber ball

• Pig and cow ears (always monitor your animal to prevent choking)

MAKE SURE SHE’S EATING A PROPER DIET

The food you give your dog or cat can make a huge difference in his health and longevity. Quality is key, so avoid products that are high in carbohydrates and harmful additives. Commercial kibbles are often advertised as beneficial for decreasing tartar and calculus build-up, but this isn’t true. A high quality canned, raw, or home-prepared diet that is low in carbs and high in protein is the best option.

Safety tip: Keep in mind that if you are home-preparing

your animal’s food, it’s vital to ensure that it’s balanced. Otherwise, it can create deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals, which have been associated with disease of the gums as well as the tooth structure below the gumline. If you are feeding your dog or cat a home-prepared diet, enlist the help of a veterinary professional to ensure it’s balanced.

how to train a dog or cat to accept and even enjoy having her teeth brushed. Don’t strive for perfection when brushing your animal’s teeth. While you may want to get every tooth every time, listen to her cues. If she’s growing tired and you have only done one side of her mouth, don’t worry. The other side can be done later that day, or the next day. Be patient and consistent, and do your best.

CONSIDER PROBIOTICS

Studies in humans have demonstrated a decrease in gingivitis when probiotics were applied directly to the gums. These beneficial bacteria may have a role in decreasing inflammation. While more research is needed for dogs and cats, there are additional benefits to using oral probiotics in animals, including better digestion and improved immune function. I recommend probiotics for all my patients, with or without dental disease. It’s never too late to help prevent dental disease in your dog or cat. Follow the steps outlined in this article and be as consistent as you can. Your animal will be happier and healthier thanks to your care.

BRUSH HER TEETH

Brushing your animal’s teeth every day is one of the most powerful ways you can prevent dental disease! It can prevent tartar accumulation, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. I recommend starting a brushing routine as early as possible in a dog or cat’s life, even while they still have their baby teeth. Brushing is important even if your animal is already an adult — turn to page 52 for tips on

EDITOR'S NOTE

Dental products From treats to water additives, there are a variety of dental products for dogs and cats on the market. As with anything else, some are better than others. Here are a few to consider: C&E Animal Health, ceanimalhealth.com IO Tech, iotechinternational.com McIntosh ProLine, mcintoshproline.com PlaqueOff®, Swedencare, swedencare.com TEEF!, teefhealth.com Yummy Combs, petsbestlife.com Animal Wellness

FELINE HEALTH

ENVIRONMENTAL T XINS IN THE HOME

— how to help your cat breathe easier

By Nancy Scanlan, DVM, MS, CVA

Our homes contain a range of environmental toxins that can affect your cat’s respiratory system. Here are the most common culprits, and what you can do to help your kitty breathe easier. Does your cat sneeze a lot? Have you noticed irritated or runny eyes? Perhaps some coughing? Or worse, has she developed chronic bronchitis or asthma? These symptoms may have several causes, one of which could be a sensitivity to environmental toxins in the home. Such sensitivities can appear in cats of any age. This article looks at the most common culprits when it comes to these toxins, and what you can do to help alleviate your cat’s suffering.

MANMADE CHEMICALS ABOUND The number of environmental toxins present in our homes has increased

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steadily since the 1970s. From fire retardants to air fresheners, these chemicals were all originally created to makes our lives easier, safer, or more pleasant. But for some individuals, including our feline companions, they can make life more difficult. Exposure to the chemicals used in fabrics and materials for curtains, rugs, furniture and other household items has resulted in a variety of health problems in both humans and animals. The greater the number, variety, and concentration of manmade chemicals in a household, the greater the chances that your cat (or human family) will suffer from the health effects they can produce.

HOW TO FIND THE CAUSE OF YOUR CAT’S DISCOMFORT If your cat develops any of the respiratory symptoms mentioned above, the first step is to take her the veterinarian for a checkup. Once other health problems, such as an infectious disease, are ruled out, it’s time to start looking at toxins in your home environment, such as the following: • Is anyone is smoking or vaping indoors? The effects of second-hand smoke can be as bad for cats as they are for people. This is especially true of

Food sensitivities Although food sensitivities caused by additives in commercial pet foods don’t typically cause respiratory symptoms, they can still contribute to the total chemical burden on your cat’s body. These sensitivities generally cause itchy skin or GI upsets such as vomiting or diarrhea. Switching to a healthier diet is just one more way to help her feel better overall.

vaping, which was initially promoted as a “healthier” alternative to inhaling tobacco smoke. The solution is to stop smoking or vaping inside the house. This single step can make a big different in a cat’s respiratory health. • Toxins in the air can also come from the evaporation or “outgassing” of chemicals. Outgassing occurs when chemicals are gradually lost from materials in the home, especially those made from plastics. The result is a weakened product as well as chemicals in the air that you may be unaware of. For example, even if paint looks and feels dry, it can continue to cure or dry further, releasing low levels of toxins. Similarly, commercial floor and furniture waxes contain many compounds that can evaporate and cause sensitivities in your cat. • High levels of dust mites in the home are associated with an increased number and duration of asthma attacks in humans, and difficulties in breathing. Dust mites can affect cats as well.

HEPA FILTERS AND OTHER SOLUTIONS What can you do to minimize the impact of environmental toxins in your home, and improve your cat’s health? A HEPA filter can be very helpful, especially one with a charcoal pre-filter. The charcoal absorbs certain gases that the main filter can’t. Many people notice that they, as well as their animal companions, breathe more freely and have less eye irritation after buying a HEPA filter. As a bonus, a HEPA can also help reduce the negative effects of dust mites.

In addition to purchasing a HEPA filter, start using more natural products such as household cleaners to help everyone — feline and human — breathe better (see https://animalwellnessmagazine.com/ household-cleaners-safe-pets/ for some ideas). It’s true that a natural product may require a little more effort to use than chemical household cleaners. For example, when using a beeswax product rather than a chemical furniture polish, you might need to apply more pressure to get a good shine. You might need two products instead of one to clean carpets or drapes, especially if you are just starting to use more natural products. But your cat’s improved well-being (and your own) is worth it! If your cat suffers from asthma, do not abandon conventional treatment methods. Cats can suffer uncomfortably or even die from a severe asthma attack. As you introduce more natural products into your house, however, you may notice that her attacks are less severe, and don’t happen as often. In fact, with the guidance of your veterinarian, you might even be able to decrease your cat’s medication. Because our cats are a lot smaller than we are, and often spend more time in the house than we do, they are more likely to develop health problems in response to the many environmental toxins and chemicals found in our homes. If your cat is exhibiting any persistent respiratory symptoms – sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge or coughing — have her checked by the vet, and then look for ways to lower her exposure to household toxins by considering a HEPA filter and adopting a more natural lifestyle.

PCBs and feline hyperthyroidism PCBs in the fire retardants used in furniture, drapes, and carpets have been linked to feline hyperthyroidism, which although not a respiratory disease can have significant health impacts, including weight loss, high heart rate, and a scruffy coat. The disease most often appears in cats over ten years old and was first described in veterinary literature in the early 1970s, with an increasing number of sufferers since that time. Can linings with BHP (another chemical that increased in use after the 1970s) has also been implicated in feline hyperthyroidism. Once the disease has developed, changing all the furniture, drapes, and carpets in your house is unlikely to have much effect, although avoiding cans with BHP linings might help in its treatment. To help prevent the disease in a young cat, using as many natural materials in your home as possible can have a positive impact.

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SPOTLIGHT

“CONSERVATION DOGS” By Isabelle Groc

How they're helping the environment Working dogs have many roles, and that includes using their powerful sense of smell to help with wildlife conservation. Find out how they do it.

Diesel (left) and Seuss (above) are trained to sniff out invasive zebra mussels in the waterways of Alberta, Canada.

From guide dogs to therapy dogs to police dogs…working canines abound. But did you know that dogs — or more specifically, their amazing olfactory powers — are also being used to help with wildlife conservation and other environmental issues? Let’s visit with a few of these “conservation dogs” and see how they’re making a difference with helping the planet.

WHAT CONSERVATION DOGS DO Conservation dogs help scientists collect vital information about plants and animals that would otherwise be difficult to obtain. They do it in a non-invasive way by sniffing out the information —

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often in the form of scat (feces). Scat is useful because it reveals a lot of valuable facts about an animal’s health, diet, stress levels, reproductive status, and exposure to toxins and diseases. These dogs are quick and efficient; they can search large areas both on land and at sea, and navigate rough terrain. They can also find things a lot faster than a human could, and with a higher degree of accuracy. For example, a study comparing the performance of dogs and humans in a field survey to detect koala scat in Australia found that the detection dog team was 19 times more time-efficient and 153% more accurate than the human-only team.

Dogs can be trained to sniff out just about anything, according to Heath Smith, cofounder of Rogue Detection Teams. “There is almost unlimited use for these dogs,” he says. “So far there hasn’t been a project too big for them.”

CONSERVATION DOGS AT WORK 1. Sniffing out endangered orcas Dio is an Australian cattle dog that is helping researchers from the University of Washington better understand the challenges faced by the endangered orca population in the area. His job is to

sniff out orca scat at sea. Ordinarily, it can be tricky to get samples because the scat is difficult to see with the human eye, and only remains on the surface of the water for a few minutes. But for a trained detection dog like Dio, this isn’t a problem. He can sniff floating whale scat up to one nautical mile away from the boat, even in fast-moving currents. While on the water, Dio’s handler, Collette Yee, is by his side, intensely focused on what the dog is “saying.” On land, scat detection dogs can show their human partners exactly where the poop is, but they aren’t allowed to jump into the water while on a boat, so they must clearly communicate what they have found in other ways. “Sometimes it’s really obvious,” says Collette. “The dogs will start to pull themselves over the side of the boat, and are whining or wagging their tails. But sometimes it’s really subtle. They lick their lips and look around in certain ways.” The orca scat samples found by Dio are put on ice to be sent to the lab for analysis. Each sample collected

takes the researchers a step closer to understanding what can be done to help with orca conservation. For example, thanks to the work of Dio and other dogs, scientists have discovered that orcas were experiencing unsuccessful pregnancies due to malnutrition and high stress levels. These findings were vital to advocating for better protection of Chinook salmon, the orcas’ main food source.

2. Creating protected areas for kit foxes With their super noses, conservation canines are making a difference for the future of fragile species such as the orca — and the endangered San Joaquin kit fox. A project run by Working Dogs for Conservation, that relied on detection dogs to find the scat of this fox species, provided evidence that led to the development of new protected areas in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

3. Catching illegal wildlife traffickers Dogs are also being used in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking. For example, Benny was Washington State’s first wildlife crime detection dog. This black Lab’s sensitive nose has helped wildlife officers seize some of the illegally-trafficked animal products that

pass through the state’s ports of entry, from elephant ivory to rhino horns and shark fins. On land and water, dogs like Dio, Benny and many others are helping humans tackle some of our most pressing environmental issues, helping the world’s most vulnerable species one sniff at a time.

WANT TO GET

involved?

If you’re a dog parent with an interest in wildlife and the environment, some regions have implemented citizen science projects that involve canines and their people working together for conservation. For example, Conservation Dogs of Hawaii works with volunteer dog handler teams to search for an invasive plant called devil weed. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the job of a conservation canine requires skill and physical stamina. Not every dog — or human — can do this. You can get started by taking a scent detection class with your dog; this field is gaining in popularity as a way to promote canine well-being and encourage independent thinking.

KEEPING ZEBRA MUSSELS at bay

Conservation canines can also sniff out invasive species. In Alberta, Canada, a trio of specially-trained dogs are on the frontlines in the battle to keep zebra mussels out of the province’s water systems. Zebra mussels are an invasive species that disrupts food webs and causes irreversible damage once established in an area.

Above: Dio is all set to board a scientific vessel on the hunt for orca scat. Right: Benny uses his nose to track down illegally-trafficked animal products.

Seuss, Hilo and Diesel, along with their handlers, comprise the “K-9 conservation unit” at Alberta Environment and Parks. The dogs are deployed at boundary points as well as at boat launches and reservoirs around the province to sniff out the dreaded zebra mussels. Animal Wellness

2021

PROVED

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What we love: Provides general multisystem support for daily maintenance of all body systems.

PICKS

No more pet odors! If you have a dog or cat, then you probably assume pet odors come with the territory. But it doesn’t have to be that way. SCOE 10X is an effective, non-toxic odor eliminator that uses beneficial probiotics to digest biological excretions, so odor-causing bacteria can’t feed and produce the molecules that cause the nasty smells we associate with urine, feces and vomit. Used properly, it even scoe10x.com removes odors from carpets and upholstery.

What we love:

Beyond the food bowl Dogs and cats have nutritional needs that go beyond what their regular diets provide. Help fill nutritional gaps with Standard Process Veterinary Formulas™, high quality nutritional supplements containing human quality ingredients, such as Canine and Feline Whole Body Support, that deliver targeted support for every age and activity level.

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What we love: Whole food ingredients and a gentle cooking process optimize nutritional value.

Eastern Food Therapy for dogs Does your dog need a warming, cooling or neutral diet? Side by Side helps you find out, and offers a range of healthy, natural recipes to bring your dog back into balance. Use the online assessment tool to submit a profile of your dog; company experts use the info to create a customized food recommendation just for your pooch, based on Eastern Food Therapy.

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What we love: This product is gentle enough for kittens and puppies.

Nix bugs with cedar oil Spring is here, and fleas, ticks and other pests are making a reappearance. These critters can make your animal miserable, so it’s important to nip them in the bud. Goodwinol Shampoo contains cedar oil, a naturally-occurring insecticide. It helps alleviate itching, flaking and excessive scratching, and leaves coats shiny and lustrous.

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What we love:

Supplements you can trust Your dog or cat deserves the best supplements. From clean ingredients to product testing, NOW Foods’ pet health products are subjected to the same rigorous FDA-GMP quality standards as human supplements. They offer chewable tablets for joint, GI or immune support, Omega-3 softgels, cardiovascular and kidney support powders, and more.

Products are all formulated by a veterinarian and certified by the NASC.

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What we love:

Casting your animal is easy with professional support and easy-to-use casting kits.

Buy the right dog toys Play is important to your dog’s physical and emotional well-being, and buying the right toys can make playtime even more beneficial and enjoyable. Cooltugs offers a range of carefullychosen dog toys that are easy to use, and rewarding for your dog. From PitchDog Rings to Liker Balls by Collar, the toys are well made and designed for optimal fun — for both of you! They also sell accessories such as harnesses, leashes cooltugs.com and collars.

What we love:

Bring back his mobility Prosthetics and orthotics can give disabled dogs (and other animals!) a whole new lease on life. Specialized Pet Solutions LLC creates quality custom products to help animals live happy and healthy lives. Products include a Stifle Brace, Carpal/Wrist/Paw Brace, and a Hock/Tarsus/Achilles Brace as well as a Partial Limb Prosthetic.

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What we love: You’ll also find information and tips on how to cope with your grief.

Celebrate her life The hardest part of being a dog or cat parent is knowing you won’t be together forever. However, memories and stories can help us celebrate the lives of our beloved animals even while we mourn their loss. Morris Animal Foundation's new Furever Memorials allow you to create a free virtual memorial, share unlimited photos and memories with family and friends, and become part of a supportive animal-loving community.

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PEST CONTROL

Sun protection & skin care for your dog By Erin Mullen

The arrival of spring means more time outdoors with your dog, but don’t forget the sun protection and insect repellent!

Spring is coming, bringing with it lots of outdoor fun for you and your dog. But too much sun can cause burning and even lead to skin cancer. Meanwhile, mosquitoes, ticks and other nasty pests are ready and waiting to take a bite out of your dog’s fun. It’s time to deploy some natural sunscreens and insect repellents to protect your canine companion and let him enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and safety.

SUNSCREENS “Thanks to their coats, most dogs have a natural protective barrier against the sun,” says David Merrick of Dermoscent®, which offers a sunscreen for both dogs and cats called SunFREE. “However, additional protection is necessary in certain dogs, such as those with light-colored coats, hairless breeds, those that have been recently clipped, and dogs that have a photo-aggravated disease.” Dogs with pink skin and white hair may be more prone to sunburn. The most susceptible areas are the top of the nose and ears, as well as the belly and paws.

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“Use a sunscreen specifically designed for pets,” adds David. “Some human products have ingredients such as zinc oxide that cause harm to dogs.” A product whose efficacy has been proven with independent research is ideal. “Proven products provide protection from the sun (UVA and UVB) with sunray-reflecting filters of titanium dioxide and aluminum oxide. It is crucial to use a sunscreen that is proven to have the SPF level it claims to have, and it’s even better if it includes moisturizing properties (e.g. candelilla wax). That way you have skin hydration while providing protection from UV rays.”

INSECT REPELLENTS As with sunscreens, be sure to use an insect repellent product that’s formulated especially for dogs. Essential oils play a large role in natural insect repellents, but be sure to look for products that use high quality oils. The same applies if you make your own repellents – cheap oils are often adulterated and can be harmful to your dog. Peppermint, lavender, cedarwood, eucalyptus and geranium essential oils are

all effective at keeping mosquitoes, ticks and fleas at bay. “The oils can be part of a shampoo, flea collar, spray, or powder,” says veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier. His line of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics includes two repellent products for animals: “One is citrus and one is lavender to help with parasites and itching.” Using natural, species-specific products to protect your dog from UV rays and biting insects means a happier, safer and more enjoyable spring (and summer!) for both of you. These products also have positive benefits over the long term by reducing his risk of developing skin cancer or contracting insect-borne diseases such as Lyme. It’s a win-win!

How to find a pet-friendly

odor eliminator

that actually works Finding an odor eliminator that’s effective and petfriendly is no small feat. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a product!

What’s the one downfall of sharing your life with a dog? Sometimes they stink! Whether he’s had a run-in with a skunk or likes to roll in gross substances, chances are your pup has brought a yucky smell or two into your home. It’s important to have a handy odor eliminator in your tool kit for such an occasion. And not just any odor eliminator will do. The key is to find a product that cuts through smells as opposed to just covering them up — and of course, it has to be pet-friendly!

WHAT NOT TO USE When it comes to eliminating nasty odors, the most important thing to know is which products to avoid. Many common “air fresheners” are harmful to our dogs and cats, and don’t actually do anything to get rid of bad smells. Most of them contain artificial fragrances, alcohols and solvents that work to disguise odors, not combat them. They also pose a risk to your pet’s respiratory system — and yours! If the odor eliminator you use smells suspiciously like flowers, pine needles or perfume, it’s safe to assume that it contains phthalates — toxic chemicals added as a fragrance. Phthalates have been linked to headaches, dizziness,

allergic rashes, coughing, vomiting and skin irritation in humans. For pets with allergies or sensitivities, artificial fragrances can be even more irritating, and can lead to similar symptoms. In short, the healthiest and most effective way to combat odors isn’t to cover them up, but to target them at the source.

THE SCIENCE OF ODOR To fully understand how to eliminate bad odor, it’s beneficial to understand what odor is. There are three distinct odor components that make up biological odor: 1. A biological excretion or decomposition such as urine, feces, vomit, sweat, skunk spray, meat, fish, cigarette smoke, etc. 2. Odor-producing bacteria that feeds on the biological excretion and produces an abundance of odor molecules. 3. Odor molecules are what your nose identifies as odor, produced by odorcausing bacteria feeding on biological excretion.

In order to permanently destroy biological odor, all three odor components must be eliminated by an odor elimination product. If these three components are not eliminated, the odor will remain or naturally return.

A SAFE AND EFFECTIVE PRODUCT It’s not easy to find a pet-friendly odor eliminator that works — but it’s not impossible. SCOE 10X is the only odor eliminator that eliminates all three components of odor. Using probiotics, this concentrated product: • Attacks and eliminates the biological excretion • Starves odor-causing bacteria so no more odor molecules can be produced • Immediately captures and destroys all odor molecules that are present. SCOE 10X is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, biodegradable, environmentallyfriendly and — most importantly — safe for use on and around pets. To learn more about odor and how this product can help, visit:

SCOE10X.COM Animal Wellness

By Tonya Wilhelm

D gs Cats

Regular tooth brushing is an important part of your dog or cat’s dental care regimen. Find out how to get her to accept and even enjoy the procedure.

Caring for your dog or cat’s dental health is paramount, especially when you consider how common periodontal disease is. At least 80% of dogs over the age of three, and up to 90% of cats over four, have some degree of dental disease. Although these numbers are staggering, there are many things we can do help prevent dental problems in our dogs and cats, from feeding them the correct diet, to brushing their teeth regularly between veterinary check-ups. Problem is, most animals don’t like having their teeth brushed, which means most people just don’t do it. The good news is that you can train your dog or cat to accept and even enjoy tooth brushing, no matter what her age. Read on to find out how!

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IF POSSIBLE, START YOUNG If you’ve recently adopted a puppy or kitten, the best defense against dental disease is to start her as soon as possible on a good at-home dental hygiene routine, including brushing. The biggest challenge with a young animal is to help her stay still and not get too “bitey”. Slow and steady always wins the race, so start with these steps and always go at your youngster’s pace and comfort level.

Tip: Your goal is to teach your animal

to be calm and enjoy the brushing, so you can gradually increase the time you spend doing it. Progress to the next step only once she has mastered the step before. This could take one session or several. There is no rush.

q Start when your puppy or kitten is somewhat relaxed, not when she's ready to have a “zoomie” session.

w Place a dab of pet toothpaste or

coconut oil on your finger (always use toothpaste especially formulated for dogs and cats — never human toothpaste). Allow her to sniff and lick your finger. Repeat twice. Do this once a day for a few days. Move to the second step once your puppy or kitten is eagerly anticipating this first step.

ow, instead of just having your eN young animal lick the dab off, slide your finger into her mouth as she's licking and massage one side of her gums for just a second or two. Repeat on the other side. Continue this process daily. Once you are easily sliding your finger along her gums, continue to the next step.

r Once your puppy or kitten is

accepting a little gum massage, start to pay attention to massaging each tooth.

t Your youngster is now becoming a

pro at allowing you to massage her teeth and gums with either her pet toothpaste or coconut oil. If you started with coconut oil to help encourage her taste enjoyment, switch to a half coconut oil/half pet toothpaste mix and start to wean out the coconut oil.

y Now it’s time to transition from your

finger to your brushing tool of choice. Depending on your puppy or kitten’s mouth structure, you might use a baby toothbrush, a finger toothbrush, a glove with nubs, or even a gauze pad. Don't forget to clean the toothbrush after each brushing.

WHAT ABOUT ADULT ANIMALS? If you have an adult dog or cat who already hates having his teeth brushed so much that you’ve given up, what can you do? The first step is to take him to

the veterinarian for a dental check-up. The vet may need to perform an exam prior to having you start an at-home routine to determine if your animal has any decaying or chipped teeth or severely inflamed gums that would need to be professionally addressed first.

Tip: If your dog or cat has to have

any dental work done, allow his mouth to heal before starting an at-home brushing regimen.

As you go through the following steps, pay close attention to your animal’s emotions and behavior. Again, the goal is to go at his comfort level so he is happy at each step.

q Find something sticky and tasty that your dog or cat loves. This could be canned pet food, coconut oil, or pureed meat. You are looking for a

Plaque and tartar: Animals develop plaque when food, saliva, and bacteria meet. As this slurry continues to hang out on your animal’s teeth, it starts to become harder and turns into plaque and tartar. Gingivitis: When your animal's gums become red, swollen, and even painful, he has gingivitis. This inflammation is typically caused by the bacteria in his mouth, and plaque and tartar build-up. Periodontal disease (periodontitis): As your dog or cat’s teeth continue to build plaque and tartar, and his gums become swollen, the process starts to go deeper into his gum line, eventually causing pain, abscesses, and damage to the teeth.

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flavor your animal is going to enjoy and look forward to licking.

w Ideally, sit on the floor with your

animal. Engage with him, showing him that he has a tasty treat coming up. Dab it on your finger, while saying things like: “Are you ready for this tasty snack?” Now that your dog or cat is watching you, bring your hand and the yummy mixture down to his level, but not extended to him. You want him to approach you. Allow him to sniff your hand and lick. That's it. Repeat this step with two dabs. If your animal doesn't show interest in the mix, try something else next time. Do this every day for as many days as needed. Don't move to the next step until your dog or cat is anticipating the process, coming to lick off the dab and looking for more.

e Once he’s completely happy with

Step 2, gently slip your finger inside his mouth for one second and then back out. Do this once during each dab-licking session. Once he shows no concern about your finger sliding along his gums, move to the next step.

r Start to massage his teeth and gums

during your brushing sessions, using one dab for each side of the mouth. Continue this process once a day until your dog or cat is happily and

easily having his teeth massaged with your finger.

t Now gradually transition from a food

dab to pet toothpaste. Start with halfand-half of each and slowly decrease the food until you’re only using pet toothpaste.

y After you have switched to pet

toothpaste, it’s time to move to your toothbrush of choice. It will depend on your dog or cat’s current dental and oral situation, and the structure of his mouth. If he is missing teeth, your veterinarian may recommend using gauze. You can also buy toothbrushes specifically designed for pets, or a finger glove with nubs.

Tip: Whatever the age of your dog

or cat, be gentle when you’re brushing his teeth. For optimum success, you don’t want to cause him any discomfort.

As with any other training process, teaching your dog or cat to enjoy having his teeth brushed takes time, patience, and consistency. Take it slow, and give him lots of praise after each session. Once you’ve both got it down pat, brushing his teeth only takes a couple of minutes from start to finish and can vastly improve his dental and overall health.

Gifts for your dog or cat

that keep on giving

Planning to buy your dog or cat a gift? Put your money where it counts! Animals don’t understand when we say, “I love you”. So we have to show them! There are countless ways to do this — quality time, long walks and plenty of snuggles. And let’s not forget toys and treats! But what if the money you spend on your animal could go even further? Is there a way to extend your love beyond your dog and cat by buying them gifts that give back? The answer is yes!

SPREADING THE LOVE Many pet companies are placing a higher importance on giving back, which offers pet parents the opportunity to do the same. Essentially dog and cat parents can donate to a cause and get a new goodie for their fur babe — a win-win for all! “This elevated level of caring tends to reverberate across all areas of a business, from the people they employ, to the products they produce, to the causes they support,” says Adam Martodam, Marketing Director at NutriSource Pet Foods. “It shows an understanding that what they do is far more than what hits the bottom line of a financial statement but rather the impact they can have on the world around them.”

intention is much more fulfilling! Aside from the “feel-good vibes”, investing in a pet company that gives back puts your hard-earned dollars toward something good — whether that means feeding homeless animals, supporting environmental efforts, or helping kids with cancer! “You are immediately part of something bigger than just that isolated purchase of a product,” says Adam.

3 STEPS TO GIVING BACK Whether you’re looking for cat treats, dog toys or anything in between, here are a few simple ways to find pet products and support brands that keep on giving: 1. Do some research Use the internet to find some philanthropic pet companies, then peruse their websites and read Google reviews to see what others are saying. “Companies should be transparent about the ways they give and who they give to,” says Adam. “This can tell a customer a lot about the values of the company and validate it’s a company you want to support.”

WHY IT’S WORTH IT

2. Select a cause

Sure, it’s easy to grab the first product you see at the pet store. But buying with

Now it’s time to decide what cause you want to support. There really isn’t a wrong

choice here, so pick something that aligns with your own values. Finally, make sure you read up on the charity the company partners with to ensure they’re legitimate and don’t have a hidden agenda. 3. Spread the word! This is the easy part. Once you find a company you love that supports a cause you believe in — tell your friends!

Start here NutriSource challenges itself every day to answer CEO Charlie Nelson’s question: “What good are we if we aren’t trying to make a difference?” Giving back has always been a priority for NutriSource and parent company KLN Family Brands, with more than $3 million committed and contributed since 2018. “We give because we’re grateful for our success,” says Adam. “We know we wouldn’t be successful without our customers, and we want to direct that into causes that help families, children and pets.” 100% of profits from NutriSource SuperStars™ Training Reward Treats go back to causes the company supports. Learn more and buy your dog a gift that keeps on giving at: nutrisourcepetfoods.com/giving-back

Animal Wellness

CANINE STYLE

DOG APPAREL

— from fun to practical

Visit any pet supply or department store, and you’re sure to find a wide selection of apparel for dogs, ranging from raincoats and sweaters to keep him warm and dry, to costumes for special occasions. Whatever you have in mind, it’s important to keep your dog’s comfort and safety in mind. Here are some tips from the ASPCA, along with photos of dogs dressed in their best!

SAFETY TIPS Before you buy any garment or costume for your dog, keep the following tips in mind: • If you’re purchasing a coat or sweater to protect him from the elements on walks, it’s

Animal Wellness

important that it’s correctly sized and made from quality materials. Comfort is key. • A garment or costume shouldn’t inhibit your dog’s vision or ability to breathe or bark in any way. • Check for any dangling or loose parts that could be easily chewed off or present a choking hazard. • If your dog seems distressed or shows abnormal behavior when you try to put him in a costume, a bandana or bowtie might be your best bet. • Avoid overly large or small costumes as they can present safety issues. aspca.org

All photos (except top second from left) courtesy of ASPCA

Whether you’re protecting him against the elements or dressing him up for a holiday, there’s dog apparel for every occasion!

HOW PROBIOTICS CAN IMPROVE DENTAL HEALTH IN DOGS Probiotics support your dog's dental health by promoting an environment where bad bacteria struggle to colonize.

By Casey Haught, DMD

Most people associate probiotics with gut health. But they also have a significant impact on gum and dental health. As we continue to study and learn about the different strains of probiotics, and how they interact and influence our health and that of our dogs, we’re realizing just how involved probiotics are in keeping the mouth and teeth healthy. We know that pathogenic bacteria in the mouth continuously multiply. Over time, this leads to poor oral health, with symptoms such as bad breath, red and swollen gums, and premature tooth loss resulting in the inability to eat or chew. All these lead to a decline in overall health and well-being.

BENEFICIAL BACTERIA MAKE A DIFFERENCE When beneficial bacteria in the form of probiotics are introduced to the oral cavity, however, they create an environment conducive to their colonization, which in turn deters the colonization and propagation of bad or

pathogenic bacteria. To put it simply, good bugs in the mouth create an environment suitable for them to thrive, while creating an environment where the bad bugs can’t survive.

PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENT FOR BETTER ORAL HEALTH BriteNamelTM is a supplement that helps promote your dog’s good oral health by providing a balanced blend of strain-appropriate, live (viable), beneficial bacteria to the oral cavity. The product is unique in that this blend of bacteria readily adapts to and colonizes the mouth. Thanks to this colonization of good bacteria, along with components in the product that contribute to the debridement of plaque and tartar, a healthy mouth is promoted and maintained. The result is fresher breath, whiter and brighter teeth, and a reduction in plaque, along with healthy gums and good bone support. BriteNamelTM is available in Dental Bones or Dental Powder, both of which deliver a steady supply of good bacteria to your dog’s mouth.

FORMULATED FOR PERFORMANCE What sets BriteNamel™ apart is that it’s formulated for performance, and not simply made to market. We have spoken to countless dog parents who have tried and tried to improve their canine’s oral health to no avail, at least until they used BriteNamelTM. They tell us that the improvement in their dogs’ breath alone is incredible, let alone all the other benefits. If you are struggling with your own dog’s oral health, I strongly encourage you to give BriteNamelTM a try, whether you opt for the bones or the powder. After all, a healthy mouth is essential for a healthy body. CEANIMALHEALTH.COM

Casey Haught is a licensed dentist and co-owner of C&E Animal Health, which has been in existence for over 20 years and specializes in natural health products for both large and small animals. Animal Wellness

NEED TO KNOW

How to clean & care for wounds in your dog or cat

All dogs and cats occasionally get scraped or scratched. So it’s important to know how to clean and care for these wounds at home. By Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT

Accidents happen. Our dogs and cats have a knack for getting scrapes, abrasions, and wounds at the least convenient times. Being able to clean and care for simple wounds at home may eliminate the need for emergency veterinary care.

WHICH WOUND TYPES CAN BE CARED FOR AT HOME? Superficial wounds that do not completely penetrate the skin can generally be treated at home, but even these should be dealt with promptly to ward off infection. Bite wounds and punctures should be cleaned and flushed at home, but will most likely require veterinary care and antibiotics (more on this later). Puncture wounds need to be left open to drain; they should not be sutured unless a large laceration accompanies the puncture.

CLEANING THE WOUND What to avoid: • Hydrogen peroxide is often recommended for wound care. However, it is not able to distinguish between good and bad cells within the

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wound. The peroxide kills all cells, including the white blood cells that help fight infection. This slows healing, making the wound stay open longer, and can lead to more infection. • Alcohol is also commonly recommended. While it is true that alcohol can minimize germ activity within the wound surface, it will also burn the skin. Skin cells can be damaged when put in contact with rubbing alcohol, and the swelling and itching that result might be misread as inflammatory symptoms. As well, alcohol applied to open wounds is extremely painful for the patient. • Soaps and shampoos containing detergents and fragrances should not be used to clean open wounds. • Dilute chlorhexidine is recommended by many veterinarians for use as an antiseptic, but studies have shown that it actually inhibits wound healing and causes cellular damage within

Before you start

D gs Cats the wound. A resistant bacterium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can also grow in wounds treated with chlorhexidine. In one study comparing the use of water, saline, and chlorhexidine for wound cleaning, all wounds treated with chlorhexidine developed Pseudomonas infection, whereas the water and salinetreated wounds were not infected. What to use: • Water or saline (salt water) should be the first choice for cleaning a wound. Flushing the wound will wash away debris and bacteria. Flushing also applies a gentle pressure to the cells surrounding the wound, which stimulates healing by increasing blood flow and bringing white blood cells and oxygen-carrying red blood cells to the area to fight infection. Saline or water provides moisture and cleans the wound without causing cell damage. When used

In order to avoid contamination, the dog or cat’s hair should be clipped away from the wound. It is best to use clippers, not scissors, as you do not want to risk cutting the skin. To keep the hair from sticking to the wound, first spread a water-based lubricant (not petroleum-based) over it; this can be gently wiped or flushed away after clipping. You can now flush the wound with saline solution or water.

Wounds that require prompt veterinary care correctly, saline has the same composition as body tissue.

Helpful advice: To make a saline

solution for wound care, add ½ teaspoon salt to one cup of boiling water. Stir to dissolve and allow the mixture to cool. Make a fresh solution each time you want to clean the wound.

• Antiseptic solutions that can be applied to superficial wounds after cleaning include: Dilute iodine such as betadine Witch hazel — should only be used on superficial cuts, abrasions and bruises, as it may cause more inflammation in deeper wounds Herbal solutions — an herbal paste of extra virgin olive oil mixed with ground calendula flowers or comfrey leaves will help wounds heal and ward off infection

A study on wound healing performed in India showed that Manuka honey provided the best antimicrobial and healing benefits, while turmeric paste was a close second. Both treatments provided anti-inflammatory effects; promoted healing through the formation of new blood vessels and skin to cover the wound; and decreased bacterial infection. Whenever your dog or cat acquires a wound, the first thing to do is determine whether you can care for it yourself, or if he needs veterinary attention (see sidebar at right). If you’re in any doubt, call your vet. If it’s just a minor abrasion, however, following the suggestions in this article helps ensure it will heal quickly and properly at home.

Wounds or lacerations that penetrate completely through the skin, as well as punctures, bites, and wounds that are bleeding excessively or cover large areas, should receive prompt veterinary attention. Old wounds with dead skin or tissue, as well as infected wounds, may need debridement (trimming away dead or diseased tissue). A contaminated wound that is more than a few hours old should never be closed without surgical debridement. Fresh edges with healthy skin tissue will allow a wound to close correctly. Lacerations more than about 2cm in length will often require sutures to close the wound. Bite wounds and punctures might require the placement of drains to allow infection from bacteria to exit the body. Puncture wounds that close too quickly will allow infection to build up under the skin, resulting in an abscess. Antibiotics are often required for these types of wounds. Sedation may be needed for suture and drain placement. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication will often be prescribed; depending on the situation and the veterinarian, herbal and homeopathic remedies may replace traditional medications. Back at home, your dog or cat’s wound needs to be kept clean and dry. Any bandages will have to be changed, and the wound should be checked daily for pain, swelling, redness, and discharge. Warm compresses may be needed to help draining wounds remain open. Cold compresses can be used for nondraining wounds to help decrease pain and swelling. Care must be taken when changing bandages — if they’re too tight, they can cut off circulation, resulting in the death of skin and other structures under the bandage.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Chicken Soup for the Soul® Pet Food was inspired by pet stories A lot of heart — and soul — goes into this natural, healthy pet food. Chicken Soup for the Soul has become a household name over the years. Most of us are familiar with these popular books, and have found ourselves inspired and uplifted by their stories. But Chicken Soup for the Soul isn’t confined to books alone — it’s also a pet food! “Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food was founded in 2004,” says Jeanne Blandford, the company’s Senior Director of Marketing. “The story behind it is quite interesting because it begins with not one, but thousands of stories that our parent company, Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, has received over the years. Every 18 months, we release a new dog and cat book, each containing 101 true stories about the unconditional love between a pet and their pet parent. Many speak to the physical health of the animal, and each story brought more clarity. We saw that CSS not only helps promote the human-animal bond, but that we could also help pets live longer, healthier lives by creating premium nutrition at a reasonable price.”

The family-owned and -operated company comprises a small team that works closely together to develop allnatural, premium healthy pet foods made from high quality ingredients. “We offer Classic and Grain Free all-life stages dry and wet recipes for both dogs and cats,” says Jeanne. All the recipes feature real meat as the first ingredient, with no corn, soy, wheat or meal by-products. Their main meals and treats are made in the US, so the team can closely follow all safety and quality measures. “Since our launch, we have expanded our dog and cat offerings into other proteins like beef, salmon, tuna and lamb,” adds Jeanne. “Because smaller dogs have grown in popularity, we have broadened our dog offerings to include Adult and Mature Small Bites recipes with a smaller kibble. We have also added an all-natural dog treat line that is available in 3 fornats and multiple flavors. We believe in treating all dogs with healthy, tasty treats!”

From the start, Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food’s mission has been to provide premium, healthy food made from high quality ingredients and at the best price possible. “Since many of our customers grew up with the Chicken Soup for the Soul brand, they experience a natural connection with the pet food line,” Jeanne says. “Once their animals have tried our dog or cat food, they become as loyal to the food as to the books. It’s a long-term, trusted relationship.” It’s no surprise that giving back is a core value for the company. “One of the best parts of my job is working with rescue organizations nationwide through our Fill A Bowl…Feed A Soul®️ program,” Jeanne says. “Over the years, I have volunteered with my local shelter and understand the heart that goes into working with these homeless animals: feeding, providing shelter and attending to medical needs. Being able to provide our premium nutrition to these organizations makes our entire team feel fulfilled while spreading our brand mission of happiness, inspiration and hope.”

chickensouppets.com Animal Wellness

PREVENTION

Did you know that your cat’s weight is one of the most important clues to her state of health? Weight loss or gain can be early warning sign of illness, but if it happens gradually it can be difficult to recognize. Annual or biannual weigh-ins at your cat’s wellness exam may not be enough to catch these changes, so weighing your cat once a month at home can help prevent problems from going undetected until they’re in more advanced stages.

WHY VISUALLY ASSESSING WEIGHT ISN’T ENOUGH By Ingrid King

Why you should

WE IGH your cat EVE RY MONTH

You may have seen those charts that encourage you to monitor your cat’s weight by assessing body shape and muscle condition. While these charts are useful tools and work well to determine whether your young or middleaged cat is at an ideal weight, and while muscle condition is an important indicator of body condition, they have their limitations, especially in older cats. “You will find fat cats with low muscle condition scores,” says feline veterinarian Dr. Elisabeth Colleran, “and you will start feeling bones in cats that are still overweight if they’re starting to lose muscle mass.”

WEIGHT LOSS AS AN INDICATOR OF DISEASE “Nearly all chronic diseases that creep up on cats cause insidious weight loss,” says Dr. Andrea Tasi, a holistic veterinarian. In fact, she considers weight the fourth vital sign. “Temperature, pulse, and respiration are very valuable for assessing any patient in an acute situation, but for really tracking the chronic health status of a cat over time, there is nothing more valuable than weight.”

Your cat’s weight is one of the most important indicators of her well-being. Weighing her once a month can help you catch health problems early on.

Animal Wellness

Weight changes can be subtle The average cat weighs ten pounds. A weight loss of 6% is considered a clinical sign — that’s less than ten ounces! Add this to the fact that your cat’s body is covered in fur, and subtle weight changes can be almost impossible to notice by even the most dedicated cat parent.

Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal issues, and cancer all cause weight loss, often at a slow and gradual pace, so that by the time a cat parent notices it, the disease may already be in its advanced stages. If you are weighing your cat every month, however, you will pick up on this trend long before your cat may show any other symptoms. A cat who is losing weight with no change to her diet or exercise levels requires veterinary attention as soon as possible. Monitoring your cat’s weight is also important after you’ve received a diagnosis of illness from your veterinarian. Alerting your veterinarian to weight changes in between appointments will allow him or her to adjust treatment plans and medications or perform additional diagnostics if needed.

HOW TO WEIGH YOUR CAT A common recommendation is to weigh yourself on a human scale, then weigh yourself while holding your cat and subtracting the difference. Another method that is often suggested is to weigh your cat’s carrier, then weigh it with the cat inside and again subtract the difference. However, neither of these will yield results that are accurate enough. The best way to weigh your cat is to purchase an inexpensive digital scale designed for babies, available at many retail stores or online. These scales measure pounds and ounces accurately and are easy to use. Since most cats will be suspicious if they’re lifted off the ground and onto a scale, the best thing to do is set the scale on a hard floor (it won’t read accurately on carpet) and let your cat slowly and gradually get used to it before actually placing her on it. You don’t want her to associate being weighed with something unpleasant, so be patient. “Weighing your cat regularly lets you notice the little losses or gains that you might otherwise not notice,” says Dr. Tasi. By checking your kitty’s weight once a month and keeping a written record of it, you can track any changes over time and catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

“Nearly all chronic diseases that creep up on cats cause insidious weight loss.” Keeping track of weight to avoid obesity While gradual weight gain is somewhat less worrisome than gradual weight loss, cat parents often wait too long to intervene when their felines get overly heavy. Many cat parents don’t take weight gain seriously, but they should, because a whopping 59% of America’s cats are either overweight or obese. Packing on too many pounds has major health consequences, including diabetes, arthritis and joint problems, heart and respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal and digestive issues, compromised immunity, and increased risk for problems during anesthesia and surgery. Weighing your cat every month lets you keep track of any gradual but steady weight gain, and can help you and your vet come up with a plan to prevent obesity and its associated health problems.

Animal Wellness

ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

NAET

D gs Cats

— a breakthrough approach to allergies in dogs and cats

By Mark Newkirk, VMD

Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET) is an energy medicine modality that uses techniques such as MRT and acupressure to get to the root of your dog or cat’s allergies.

Most people believe that allergies in humans, dogs and cats are limited to a group of symptoms such as runny eyes, sneezing or itchy skin. However, our knowledge of the energetic nature of allergies is growing, and more health professionals are realizing that an “allergic” factor might be associated with most illnesses and disorders. NAET is an example of an energy-medicine solution to allergic conditions in both humans and animals. This article looks at what NAET is, how it works, and how it can be applied to help solve allergic problems in dogs and cats.

WHAT DOES NAET STAND FOR? NAET is an acronym for Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique. Combining Chinese medicine principles applied through kinesiology and acupressure, NAET was developed by Dr. Devi Nambudripad, Lac, DC, PhD, who has spent years studying the effect of this technique on thousands of human patients. NAET involves using Muscle Response Testing (MRT) to confirm the presence of allergic reactivity. Once the allergy is identified, acupressure and/or acupuncture are used to eliminate it by reprogramming the body's response to future contact.

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HOW MRT DIAGNOSES ALLERGIES The central nervous system can instantly identify the presence of substances that create blockages in an energy pathway, and perceive them as harmful to the body (i.e. an allergic reaction). This is why a muscle test will produce weakness when the patient (or human surrogate in the case of an animal) is holding a sample of the substance that produced the energy blockage. In other words, the purpose of MRT is not to determine the power any isolated muscle can produce, but to evaluate how the nervous system influences muscle function in the presence of an irritant. This is the core of NAET’s diagnostic component — to identify and isolate, through MRT, the substances that disrupt energy flow.

TREATING ALLERGIES THE NAET WAY In Veterinary NAET, the priority of treatment is defined by the animal’s condition. In most cases, an animal will present to the veterinarian in an acute state. It is essential that the acute condition be addressed not just with NAET, but also with additional supportive care such as antibiotics, steroids, acupuncture, homeopathy, etc. Once the animal is

MORE ABOUT MRT Muscle testing works because the body is electric. Electricity governs the brain, our immune system, our ability to think, move, digest, etc. The electricity is either on or off, positive or negative. When the energy is off or negative, a state of dis-ease, or lack of positive energy flow, occurs. The immune system then creates symptoms to clear the dis-ease and return the body to a state of positive energy flow. MRT can find this weak area in the body, and with NAET, homeopathic remedies, and detoxifying herbs, help it restore a state of ease and bring it back towards health.

Dr. Newkirk performs a NAET treatment on a feline patient by stimulating the spinal acupressure points of a human surrogate.

stable, NAET can be used to clear acquired or constitutional (chronic) allergies. As such, NAET is not an “all or none” therapy. It is an extra tool that helps us help the animal. The NAET treatment phase in an animal consists of stimulating the spinal nerves of the human surrogate. While maintaining contact with the animal and the identified allergen, acupressure is applied to specific acupoints along the surrogate’s spine. This activates all the spinal nerves, thereby triggering the nervous system into a fresh recognition of the perceived allergen. This is an actual reprogramming of the nervous system to recognize the allergen in a new way — not as an irritant and “bad”, but as a newly neutral substance. The body then experiences a state of balance in the presence of the allergen, and is non-reactive. Hint: Sound confusing? Think of the brain as a computer, and the acupuncture points along the spine as the keys on the keyboard. The allergen, let’s say a vaccine vial, is our flash drive. When the computer program is not running right, we plug in the flash drive, type on the

PATTERNS AND TRENDS In the clinical application of Veterinary NAET, a number of patterns and trends are evident. • We commonly see allergies to individual

foods.

• We also see allergies to household chemicals,

pollens, rugs, bedding, as well as tap water, plastics, collars (especially leather), perfumes and cigarette smoke.

• Vaccine and drug reactions are particularly

interesting for the application of NAET. Increased or indiscriminate use of antibiotics, antihistamines and steroids, as well as other drugs, contributes to the development of allergies while generally suppressing the immune system. By using the actual vaccine in the NAET treatment phase, and re-balancing the body in relationship to it, the animal may pull out of reaction within 24 hours without any further intervention. This is pure energy medicine. Animal Wellness

keys and “reprogram” the computer. Thus the “bad program”, the vaccine, is no longer affecting proper computer function. Animal patients will rarely achieve resolution in a single NAET treatment, although even one treatment can produce astounding results, especially in acute conditions or in the very young. Depending on the severity and duration of the illness, and the age of the animal, multiple treatments may be required over a period of weeks.

NAET CASE EXAMPLES

Daisy, a West Highland White Terrier, presented at age two with severe skin issues, including atopic allergy, superficial recurrent pyoderma (bacterial infections), and chronic yeast on the skin and ears. Various conventional treatments had been tried, including antibiotics, shampoos, and anti-yeast medications. She was on a hydrolyzed protein prescription food. MRT indicated both underlying food allergies as well as environmental allergies. Daisy had also become “allergic” to the yeast that was infecting her, and it was determined that she had an intolerance to the hydrolyzed protein food. Using MRT, we were able to find foods she was not allergic to — pork and whitefish. We then used NAET to desensitize Daisy to the yeast, and compared three different Chinese herbal formulas for “damp” conditions to match the optimal herb to her body’s energy. Daisy was continued on shampoo therapy and her medications. Her next visit showed much improvement, and we used NAET to desensitize her to ragweed and mold. We also had her caretaker bring several items from the home, such as cleaning products, aerosols, bedding, detergents and more, and discovered contact allergies to the laundry detergent, the caretaker’s perfume, and Lysol. Obviously, no blood test would have picked up these contact allergies. Daisy slowly regained normalized skin, but at four years old continues to fight some seasonal allergies. The West Highland White Terrier breed has genetic allergic tendencies, which

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THE EMOTIONAL COMPONENT OF ALLERGIES Because emotions can create energy blockages, and therefore cause imbalance, NAET can be used to treat emotions as if they are allergies. By using MRT to identify emotional imbalances, and following the basic treatment protocol, it is possible to address and resolve behavioral issues such as inappropriate urination, antisocial behavior and aggression, as well as inter-family dynamics and adaptation to changes such as loss and grief. When I went to learn NAET some 20 years ago, I admit I had a hard time believing it would work. But the proof is in what the animals always teach me… there is another way to help if you open your mind and look for it.

means she may never be normal. But MRT picked out the allergens in her home and food that were complicating her recovery. We also treated her food allergies, so her diet is no longer so restricted.

Chief, a five-month-old Boston Terrier, had a history of regurgitation of two months’ duration, and was diagnosed with mega-esophagus. He was on medication but it didn’t totally help. MRT diagnosed an energy imbalance in the vagus nerve, which is main nerve that controls the entire digestive system (and more). We treated the vagus nerve with NAET and the puppy improved greatly. His next exam and further MRT indicated that the energetic imbalance was due to a vaccinosis reaction to the coronavirus puppy vaccine. This was cleared via NAET and Chief returned to normal. We did additional vagal nerve treatments over the next two months and his problem has not returned.

Chloe, another dog, demonstrated a case of emotional allergy. It seemed whenever the phone rang, Chloe would run to the kitchen and bark and growl at the person who went to answer it. She also “attacked” the cell phone when it rang on the coffee table. It turned out that someone in the family was ill. Every time the phone rang, it caused tension in the household because they were expecting bad news. Evidently, Chloe decided to “protect” her people from the “bad phone”. We treated her with NAET once, and her caretaker called the next day to say: “It's a miracle… no more attacking the phone, or us!”

Hairballs AND GUT HEALTH IN YOUR CAT

By Katie Dalhausen, PhD and Holly Ganz, PhD

Cat’s tongues are covered in hundreds of tiny scoop-shaped spines, called papillae. These spines function like a built-in comb when cats groom themselves. So it’s normal for cats to ingest their fur while cleaning themselves. The fur typically passes through the digestive system and is eliminated in the stool. Sometimes, however, ingested fur accumulates in the stomach and is regurgitated as one big clump — a hairball. Also called trichobezoars, hairballs a couple times a year are normal. Cats with frequent and regular hairballs may have an underlying health problem related to the digestive tract. Here we discuss the connection between hairballs and the microorganisms that line the digestive tract, and what cat parents can do about a hairball problem.

HAIRBALLS AND YOUR CAT’S GUT MICROBIOME The gut microbiome refers to the community of bacteria and other microbes that live throughout a cat’s intestines. The health of this community plays a role in nearly every aspect of your cat’s health, from nutrient absorption to immune system function. Excessive hairballs could be a sign of impaired gut motility (the digestive

system’s speed and ability to move material along). Reduced motility can affect the microbiome by interfering with nutrient absorption and causing bacterial overgrowth; scientists have found many ways that the microbiome can influence motility too. The relationship can be simple — such as the generation of mucus for food and other matter to move easily through the intestinal tract. It can also be complex; for example, beneficial gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids, which are important for regulating intestinal motility. When the gut microbiome becomes unbalanced, a cat may experience reduced gut motility. Reduced gut motility can be dangerous. If hair accumulates in the digestive tract faster than it can be processed, it can create a life-threatening blockage that requires surgical intervention.

WHY CATS OVERGROOM Grooming is a normal, self-soothing feline behavior, but overgrooming is often seen in cats with itchy skin from allergies, food sensitivities, or other skin conditions. Excessive grooming can cause hairballs because the cat is ingesting more fur than the digestive system can handle.

Your cat’s gut microbiome plays an important role in his/her immune system function because 70% of immune cells are located in the gut. A cat’s immune system may not work properly when the gut microbiome is imbalanced, causing overreactions to the environment or dietary ingredients. This can manifest as itchy skin, which cats respond to by overgrooming.

WHAT YOU CAN DO There are many ways you can help prevent hairballs. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair that would otherwise be ingested by the cat, especially for long-haired or older felines with reduced grooming abilities. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about how to best support a healthy and balanced gut microbiome in your cat.

animalbiome.com Katherine Dahlhausen, PhD, is a science writer for AnimalBiome. She was mentored by Holly Ganz during the beginning of her PhD at University of California Davis and helped with the very beginning of the KittyBiome project. Katherine has worked on a wide variety of microbiome-related projects. Holly Ganz, PhD, is a microbiologist who created AnimalBiome, providing microbiome assessments for dogs and cats and creating restorative remedies to help promote healthy guts. She received her PhD from UC Davis, where she studied co-evolution between microbes and animals. Dr. Ganz is dedicated to improving animal health through applying the latest innovations in microbiology. Animal Wellness

TO THE RESCUE

Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab

Animal Wellness will donate 25% of each subscription purchased using promo code UARR to Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab.

Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab takes in animals of all ages – including litters of young pups! In most cases, puppies and adult dogs are given the veterinary care they need before being taken in by fosters until they find their forever homes.

LOCATION: Moab, UT YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2017 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/FOSTER HOMES: Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab has two different kinds of staffing — ranch and office. The six members of the ranch staff live onsite and do all the feeding and cleaning. The six office staff members facilitate grants, fundraising, adoption coordinating, matchmaking and procedure protocols. “We have a lot of amazing volunteers but about 15 who continuously help out whenever we need them,” says Cheyleen Payson, the rescue’s Fundraising Coordinator.. “We have 400 fosters. A lot of our fosters are only here for short periods, but we have about 50 we can always depend on.” TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab is the only organization in Utah that exclusively serves stray companion dogs on Native American Reservations. “One hundred percent of our dogs are ‘res’ dogs,” says Cheyleen. “There are approximately 250,000 stray dogs living on the Navajo and Ute reservations. Life expectancy for these dogs is about two years without intervention.” FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: As a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, fundraising is a massive part of the organization. They host a yearly "Dog Paddle" and hold "puppy showers" and garage sales, as well as monthly spay/neuter/vaccination clinics that are free of charge to residents of the reservations. “We often get a

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good amount of donations during these clinics,” says Cheyleen. “We also work with other organizations that share the same interests and morals as we do. For example, we’re currently running a fundraiser with Hugo Coffee roasters. For one week, a portion of their proceeds go to us.” FAVORITE RESCUE STORY:“We were contacted one day by a tourist driving along a highway on the Navajo Nation, north of Monument Valley, AZ, who had made a startling discovery — a dog sitting at the side of the highway next to a cardboard box with cars and trucks whizzing by. The tourist turned around to see if the dog was okay, and was surprised to find several tiny pups, one or two days old, in the cardboard box. “The heat of summer would have killed those tiny pups in just hours had they not been rescued. The Good Samaritan scooped them up and changed their vacation plans to bring the little family directly to Underdog. Kele, the mom of the pups, is a beautiful dog with a beautiful spirit and we are so happy to have been part of her story.”

Find Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab online: underdogrescuemoab.org facebook.com/underdogrescuemoab instagram.com/underdogrescuemoab/ instagram.com/rosier_days

Spring

HIGHLIGHTS Powerful antioxidant for dogs and cats Antioxidants are important year round. Ageless Paws Liquid CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant supplement that helps support cardiovascular, immune, and periodontal health, and stamina, in dogs and cats. It helps the body make basic cellular energy molecules called ATP, while providing antioxidant protection against free radicals. agelesspaws.com

Healthy new chew filling! Help your dog make a fresh start this spring with Jones Natural Chews’ latest offering – a delicious, natural pumpkin filling that turns their long-lasting chews into 2-in-1 treats with great taste and texture. The pumpkin filling makes a healthy snack, while emptying a chew – select from Hooves, Windees (Beef Trachea) or Bones — will keep him busy and active. jonesnaturalchews.com

Considering a plant-based diet? When done properly, a plant-based diet for your four-legged friend is not only possible, but also healthy. Evolution Diet offers a line of kibble and canned plant-based foods, along with a selection of healthy and tasty treats. To get started, try a Sample Pack before ordering a large bag! evolutiondietpetfood.com

FMT in a capsule A healthy microbiome is vital to your dog’s well-being. DoggyBiome™ Gut Restore Supplement is a unique fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in a capsule. The veterinarian-recommented product addresses a range of chronic digestive issues and skin conditions in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, itchy skin, and atopic dermatitis AnimalBiome.com

Trend alert: track your dog's activity!

Spring into learning Ready to learn more about your animals and what they need to thrive? Animal Wellness Academy is an educational platform that delivers only the most reliable and trustworthy pet information…whenever you want it! Access the most innovative educational information from industry experts, earn Animal Wellness Academy certifications, and save on hundreds of amazing products! animalwellnessacademy.org/membership.

According to a recent study from Graphical Research, the global pet wearable market is set to grow significantly between now and 2027, thanks to an increasing desire to monitor our animals’ behavior and activity. Smart collars, Bluetooth-based pet wearables, and fitness trackers are taking over North American households, helping pet parents keep close track of their animals’ whereabouts and fitness levels. graphicalresearch.com

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How Eastern Food Therapy can

improve

your dog’s life The Eastern Food Therapy diet, also known as Food Energetics, sounds innovative — and to many of us, it is. But this way of eating has been around for thousands of years, making it one of the most time-tested ways to improve your dog’s health and well-being.

WHAT IT IS This ancient diet is based on the philosophy of using whole foods to balance the body. It endorses the notion that all foods are either cooling, warming or neutral, and that feeding the right combination of these can help treat nutritional deficiencies and excesses.

HOW IT WORKS Just as it categorizes food, Eastern Food Therapy sorts dogs into three groups: Cool, Warm or Neutral. Practitioners will recommend foods that are cooling in nature to help patients whose bodies run too warm, and the opposite — warming foods — for those who run cool. When a body is in balance — neither too warm

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nor too cool — it’s said to be neutral, and practitioners recommend a diet consisting of both cooling and warming foods, as well as neutral foods. “Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine shows that food, like everything else in the universe, consists of the two opposite but complementary life forces of Yin and Yang, says TCVM veterinarian, Dr. Marc Smith. “Yin is linked to dark, cold and negative while Yang is associated with light, heat and positive. Similarly, certain foods can be warming or cooling. To maintain balance, both energies should be in harmony with each other.” This highly effective approach to veterinary health care can target and counteract nutritional imbalances, which puts the body in a better position for overall immune health so it can help fight off disease. Of course, the key to bringing the body back into balance is knowing which foods run warm, cool and neutral (see sidebar), and how to assess which diet a dog needs.

Based on 5,000 years of knowledge, Eastern Food Therapy has the ability to change your dog’s life, from the inside out.

Cooling diets Dogs that run “warm” will benefit from nutrition that helps “cool them down”. If your dog pants or itches excessively, has seasonal allergies, regularly seeks out cold places to lie down, and/or has a bright red tongue, he may run warm. Warm dogs tend to have a Yin Deficiency so cooling them down through diet helps to restore their Yin/Yang balance. A cooling diet can help: • Counteract dry heat and inflammatory conditions • Reduce and alleviate itching, panting and scooting, and • Clear heat within the body to help make digestion smoother.

Warming diets On the flip side, dogs that run “cool” require a diet that will “warm them up”, since they have a Yang deficiency. If a dog regularly seeks warmth, has a light pink or pale tongue, drools excessively,

Quickly assess your dog by scanning the QR code on a Side by Side freezedried diet package.

has less of an appetite, or appears to lack energy or is lethargic, he may require a Warming diet! A warming diet can help: • Warm a dog’s internal system from the inside out • Support the immune system, and • Improve digestion and urinary health.

Neutral diets Some dogs are in a state of full-body balance, which means that their Yin/ Yang is aligned. Typically, well-balanced dogs are happy and athletic, and have clear eyes, pink tongues and strong stomachs! These types of dogs require a maintenance diet or “neutral” diet. A neutral diet helps with: • Muscle building • Stamina • Improving endurance, and • Promoting healthy joints.

GETTING STARTED Aside from looking for the indicators listed above, how can you determine what type of diet is best for your dog?

needs. This fun, easy-to-use digital assessment asks a series of questions to determine your pet’s age, breed, gender, weight, health issues, temperament, and other factors, and uses an algorithm to determine whether he falls into a warming, cooling, or neutral category. Side by Side also has a personalized nutritional program based on Eastern Food Therapy. Featuring whole foods carefully selected and combined for their warming, cooling or neutral qualities, these special diets are freeze dried to preserve the healing properties of each diet.

“Any dog or cat will feel better and have more energy if you switch him from a low quality diet to a TCVM energeticallyappropriate diet, which consists of healthy, whole foods,” says Dr. Smith. “As your animal attains and maintains energetic balance, chronic health challenges become less of a problem, and he starts feeling much better.” You can learn more about Eastern Food Therapy and how it can help your dog by taking the fun and interactive Side by Side e-learning program on their website. sidebysidepet.com

COOLING FOODS

WARMING FOODS

NEUTRAL FOODS*

rabbit

chicken

beef

ground duck

chicken hearts

bison

duck liver

chicken liver

duck neck

kale

whole Alaskan salmon

pumpkin

beets

pork heart spinach celery kelp apples chamomile

apple cider vinegar yucca root turmeric rice

chia seeds

oats

barley

quinoa

beef heart, liver pork liver, trim, heart

green beans shiitake mushrooms carrots sweet potato rice oats nutritional yeast sesame seeds

alfalfa grass sunflower seeds Side by Side Pet developed Nutrition for a Better Life®, a proprietary assessment tool, to help determine the most suitable *Neutral diets contain neutral ingredients but also a mix of both warming and cooling diet for your dog's nutritional and health ingredients to keep the body in balance. coconut oil

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FOCUS ON CBD

Can CBD help with your dog’s dental health? By Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS

Human studies indicate that CBD can have applications for dental health. The results can be extrapolated to our dogs too. Recently, a dog parent asked me if there was any value in using CBD in canines with dental disease. I took a look at what the published evidence says about CBD and dental health, and was surprised by what I found. In previous articles, I’ve described CBD as a “Swiss Army Knife” herbal supplement with a nearly global effect on a dog’s many different organ systems. In humans — and by extension, dogs — this has also proven true in the case of dental health.

WHAT HUMAN STUDIES SAY I found a single published study regarding CBD and dental health in humans, and two articles in human dental magazines suggesting the use of CBD for a variety of dental problems. The only published peer-reviewed study I came across tested a variety of cannabinoids, including CBD, CBDA, CBG, CBC and CBN, for their antimicrobial activity against actual specimens of dental plaque sampled from 60 humans, aged 18 to 45.* For the latter study, the cannabinoids’ ability to counter the growth of plaque

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samples grown on agar in petri dishes was compared to three commercial dentifrices: Oral BTM, ColgateTM and Cannabite FTM (a toothpaste formulation of pomegranate and algae). The researchers found that the cannabinoids were more effective at reducing the bacterial colony count as compared to the commercially-available oral care products.

CBD, given its published ability to reduce pain and inflammation.

Although all the studies and articles I found were about humans, the information applies equally well to our dogs, suggesting that CBD has a variety of applications for dental health, including those stressful visits to the veterinarian.

WHAT’S THE DOSAGE?

CBD FOR ANXIETY AND PAIN CBD’s ability to reduce stress and anxiety is well known in all species. Taking CBD before a visit to the dentist can help lower stress in human patients, while administering it to your dog prior to a vet visit may help keep him calm and collected as well. Moderate dental pain, from root abscesses to periodontal disease, can also be addressed with

Periodontal disease is a combination of infection and inflammation of the deeper parts of the gum where the tooth is attached. With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD could be very helpful in managing this disease in dogs.

If you are interested in trying CBD for your dog’s dental disease, either on its own or combined with other cannabinoids as in a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum product, consult with your veterinarian first. Start with a dosage based on your dog’s weight and the product’s concentration. I recommend a low starting dose of 0.25 mg of CBD for each pound of your dog’s body weight. Give the CBD twice daily on a small amount of food, just before meals, and allow about three months for it to work its magic. * Stahl V, Vasudevan K. Comparison of Efficacy of Cannabinoids versus Commercial Oral Care Products in Reducing Bacterial Content from Dental Plaque: A Preliminary Observation. Cureus 12(1) 2020: e6809. DOI 10.7759/cureus.6809.

ing to the o g r fo e id u g n o sd n a Your h

Taking your canine companion to the dog park should be fun and safe for both of you. This guide offers all you need to know to ensure a positive experience. By Andrea Gronwald

Dog parks are increasingly popular and can be found in most urban areas now. Going to the dog park gives your pup an opportunity to romp around off-leash and socialize with other dogs, while you get a chance to meet like-minded people. Follow the tips in this article to make sure your visits to the dog park are a safe and positive experience for everyone.

IS YOUR DOG SUITED FOR DOG PARK VISITS?

Know your dog’s personality Your dog should be well socialized with other canines and enjoy their company. If she merely tolerates other dogs, or prefers playing with only a few familiar friends, she will not enjoy a visit to a crowded dog park. The high-intensity play and changing group dynamics may be a stressful experience and cause her to be even more fearful and uncomfortable in future. If you recently adopted your dog and don’t yet know his behavior, first allow him to gradually meet other dogs in more intimate settings to assess his behavior before taking him

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to the dog park. For example, take him on group walks with other dogs and allow him to play with a small number of dogs. Many dog parks offer a separate area for small or timid dogs. Choose the appropriate section for your own pup.

Consider any health concerns

• Never take a sick or injured dog to the dog park. Not only

could he pass disease along to other dogs, but if he’s feeling ill or in pain he may act aggressively.

• Puppies that haven’t yet received their core vaccines should

never visit the dog park. They can contract dangerous and life-threatening diseases, such as parvovirus and distemper, through direct contact with infected dogs or feces.

• Be mindful of your senior dog and ensure his safety and

comfort. Older dogs who suffer from age-related health

problems, such as arthritis or loss of vision or hearing, are vulnerable around younger, more rambunctious canines.

Make sure he’s well-trained Your dog should have a reliable recall — i.e. he will come when called. After teaching him this basic behavior, gradually add distractions to the training environment before you take him to the dog park, where distractions are everywhere. It is very important to be able to call your dog away from other canines in order to prevent a potential altercation.

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS AND DOG PARK ETIQUETTE Be careful with treats and toys Many dog parks specifically prohibit bringing food. Feeding your dog around other canines can lead to aggression when she tries to protect her valuable treats.

Assess dog park conditions Dog parks vary in size. A large space gives dogs the opportunity to spread out and take a break from all the hustle and bustle. Pick a time when it is not too busy and leave when it gets too crowded. Dog walkers will sometimes bring a large group of dogs to the park. This can lead to problems because it is nearly impossible for one person to control several dogs. Observe the dogs in the park. Excessive roughhousing and chasing can quickly turn into a fight. Watch for dogs that relentlessly chase or hump other canines even when they try to get away. Responsible dog guardians will intervene. But all too often, people spend time chatting with other park visitors or looking at their phones, and not paying adequate attention to their dogs. You cannot control other people’s behavior, and sometimes it is better to leave in order to avoid conflicts between dogs or humans.

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If she likes to play fetch, make sure you play in an area away from other dogs to avoid fights over the toy.

Be mindful when entering the park When a dog is leashed around unleashed dogs, he can feel restricted and become defensive. Take advantage of the separate enclosed entrance space that most dog parks are equipped with, which allows you to safely unleash your dog before entering the park. The arrival of a new dog will often attract other canines to the entrance area. Wait for the dogs to disperse before entering. Once you’re in the park, move away from the gate into open space and encourage your dog to follow you. Supervise kids at all times Kids visiting dog parks must be closely and constantly supervised. They should not be allowed to play on the grounds or approach other dogs. Dog parks are designed to allow dogs to be dogs, and people should not have to worry about how their canines will react to a running or screaming child. Clean up after your dog Pay attention to your dog and immediately clean up after him to keep the park grounds clean and free from health hazards. Interrupt play if necessary Dog parks are highly stimulating, and intense play between aroused dogs may erupt into fights. When one dog is trying to get away from another’s excessive chasing or humping, it is time to intervene before things escalate. Some dogs like to roughhouse with each other, but make sure the dogs involved are truly enjoying this play style. Interrupt the roughhousing when you see tension rising. One way to keep play sessions short is to keep moving. Allow your dog to play, then continue walking around to give her the choice of engaging with or avoiding dogs.

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Leave if necessary If your dog is not having a good time, or is over-stimulated and becomes unruly — e.g. engaging in excessive chasing or showing aggressive behavior — it is time to leave. Everyone’s safety and enjoyment of the park takes priority. Observe your dog Just as you would keep an eye on your child on the playground, pay close attention to your dog at all times to keep him and others safe. Learning about canine body language will enable you to recognize stress signals. When you see any of these signs, your dog is not enjoying himself and it’s time to go: • Trying to avoid contact with other dogs • Tucked tail

• Crouched posture • Stiff body • Drooling

• Excessive panting (not because it is hot) • L ooking away • Yawning

• Slow movements

Likewise, when you see others dogs displaying these behaviors, keep moving along with your dog to give them space. Always consider your dog’s needs Respect your dog’s personality and put his needs first. If he does not enjoy being around a large number of unfamiliar dogs, there are plenty of other ways to exercise and socialize him. If your dog loves going to the dog park, it’s still a good idea to offer other exercise options. Daily dog park visits can sometimes lead to over-stimulation and unruly behavior even outside the dog park. Mix things up for a balanced lifestyle. Take your dog on regular walks, play with her, and allow for quiet time.

Going to the dog park is a great opportunity for your canine companion to exercise, play and socialize. As long as you consider her needs and take the appropriate safety precautions, it can be a lot of fun for both of you.

HEALTH WATCH

WHY DO CATS

Does your cat gag a lot? While some gagging is normal and natural, it may signal a health issue if it happens often.

By Nadia Ali

Your cat is standing in the middle of the kitchen floor when she hunches over and starts to gag. A few moments later, up comes a hairball or a few pieces of unchewed food. Is this normal? Should your cat be doing this? It depends. Read on for a closer look at feline gagging and when you should be concerned.

GROOMING CAN LEAD TO GAGGING The main reason cats gag is because they groom so much. A cat has a rough tongue covered with tiny barbs that feel like sandpaper. These barbs catch loose fur much like your hairbrush does, except in your kitty’s case the excess fur is swallowed. The fur goes into the stomach and most often passes into lower digestive system. Sometimes, however, the fur remains in the stomach and creates a hairball which the cat tries to vomit out by gagging. The scientific name for a hairball is “trichobezoar”. In fact, “hairball” is a misnomer since these yucky objects are usually slender and cylindrical rather than round.

tumors. The sooner an issue is addressed, the quicker the proper diagnosis and treatment can occur.” He adds that it’s not a good idea to help the cat vomit by sticking your fingers down his throat because it goes against his gag reflex. “If you are concerned, call and schedule a veterinary appointment for an exam and possible work-up, which may include bloodwork and x-rays. This is best for the cat, and for putting your mind at ease.”

WAYS TO HELP PREVENT GAGGING

2 WHEN GAGGING MEANS MORE THAN HAIRBALLS If your cat doesn’t have hairballs, yet seems to be gagging frequently, he may have another problem that requires veterinary attention. “Gagging is a symptom that relates to many underlying health conditions in feline patients,” says veterinarian Dr. Jared Mitchell. “It can be as simple as overeating or eating too fast, or may be linked to more serious conditions affecting the GI tract, such as foreign bodies and

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gain, the first step if your cat is gagging frequently is A to have youir vet check him over to rule out any serious health problems. If the gagging is being caused by hairballs, here are some tips to follow:

• Start brushing your cat regularly to help get rid of the excess

hair. All cats shed, but if yours seems to be losing more fur than normal, switching him to a healthier diet and adding an Omega-3 supplement can help. FAST FACT: Proper hydration is also important, so add extra moisture to his meals, or invest in a pet fountain (cats are often attracted to running water).

• Veterinarian Dr. Katie Kangas suggests feeding cats moisture-

rich foods rather than dry kibble, processed food or anything with carb-heavy ingredients such as potatoes or legumes.

• Dr. Kangas also recommends giving cats marshmallow

root. “It’s a natural mild laxative and supports movement in the GI tract,” she says. “It’s quite palatable for cats; it’s a clear, sticky liquid that is slightly sweet, and most cats are ok with it being added to their food.”

• A nother option, says Dr. Kangas, is to “add about half a

teaspoon of coconut oil to your kitty’s food daily. Coconut oil can act as a mild laxative and offers other health benefits too. And many cats are happy to eat it.”

• Adding more fiber to your cat’s diet is also important

because it helps with GI motility. “Canned pumpkin is one good source of fiber and is accepted by many kitties. You can add half to one teaspoon to your kitty’s meals.”

Watch to see if your cat gags when exposed to certain smells or sounds (see sidebar below). Remove anything that emits a synthetic scent. If he’s reacting to other smells or sounds, try to eliminate or minimize them. All cats gag from time to time — it’s just a natural reflex. But if gagging is becoming a regular occurrence in your kitty, it’s time to find out what’s causing it and solve the problem.

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CLASSIFIEDS

GREY2K USA — Formed in 2001, GREY2K USA Worldwide is the largest greyhound protection organization in the CAROL SCHULTZ — Animal Communicator/Intuitive Healing Support world. As a non-profit entity, we work to pass stronger greyhound protection Interactive, compassionate, practical, and insightful Consultations and Energy laws and end the cruelty of dog racing on both national and international Balancing for all species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, physical, end levels. We also promote the rescue and adoption of greyhounds across the of life, and animals of spirit Classes & globe. www.grey2kusa.org mentoring available. (815) 531-2850 www.carolschultz.com Animal Communicators

Books & Publications

SHIRLEY SCOTT — Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/ behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. (541) 5773051, sscott@shirley-scott.com, www. shirley-scott.com

1000s OF DOG BOOKS, EBOOKS, DVDs AND VIDEO ON DEMAND. Learn just like the Pros. (800) 776-2665; Dogwise.com Natural Pet Products

NATIONAL ANIMAL SUPPLEMENT COUNCIL (NASC) — The National Animal Supplement Council is a nonprofit industry group dedicated to Associations protecting and enhancing the health MORRIS ANIMAL FOUNDATION — We of companion animals and horses are a global leader in supporting studies throughout the U.S. When you see the to find solutions to serious health threats NASC Quality Seal on a product, you can trust it comes from a reputable to animals. Since our founding, we’ve company that has successfully invested more than $136 million in 2,780+ studies that have improved the health and quality of life for dogs, cats, horses, and wildlife around the world. We believe animals make the world a better place. Animals are our family members, our companions, and our inspiration. Whether we work on staff, serve as board members, or volunteer as scientific advisers, each of us strives every day to make the world a brighter place for animals — and those who love them. www.morrisanimalfoundation.org

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passed an independent quality audit. Look for the Quality Seal wherever you purchase animal supplements. https:// nasc.cc/ Schools & Training

HOLISTIC ANIMAL STUDIES — We offer online courses in Canine, Feline, and Equine Massage, kinesiology taping, craniosacral therapy, Reiki, and body alignment. Our courses are approved through numerous National and International Organizations ensuring that you will be provided with the highest quality learning experience. All of our courses are online, have no deadlines and no time limitations! Register now and start learning one of these amazing techniques from any location today! www.holisticanimalstudies.org/ TALLGRASS ANIMAL ACUPRESSURE RESOURCES — The Pioneers in Animal Acupressure Resources since 1990. Tallgrass has created animal acupressure books, manuals, meridian charts, videos, acupoint apps, and extensive Home-Study and Hands-On workshops to provide animal guardians, trainers, and healthcare practitioners access to the powerful healing modality of Animal Acupressure. www.animalacupressure.com WALKS ‘N’ WAGS PET FIRST AID — National Leaders in Pet First Aid Certification Courses for dogs and cats. Learn preventative skills and practice emergency bandaging with live wiggly pets. Distance Learning also available. www.walksnwags.com or (800) 298-1152

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EVENTS

Be sure to visit event websites for updates regarding COVID-19. Animal Wellness Academy On-demand – Online Education

Global Pet Expo March 23–25, 2022 – Orlando, FL

ATTENTION pet parents, retailers, distributors, and para-professionals. Join us for innovative and trustworthy pet education 24/7/365!

The pet industry’s largest annual trade show, Global Pet Expo, is open to independent retailers, distributors, mass-market buyers and other qualified professionals. The 2018 show featured over 1100 exhibitors and more than 3000 new product launches with almost 7000 pet product buyers from around the world in attendance.

From the publisher of Animal Wellness (AW) and Equine Wellness (EW) Magazines and Innovative Veterinary Care Journal (IVC), this educational platform delivers only the most reliable and trustworthy pet information whenever you want it. Enjoy video lectures from leading industry experts, product manufacturers, integrative veterinarians covering a wide range of regularly updated topics PLUS over 2000 articles, blogs, tips and studies all available at one convenient easy-to-navigate location. Register today for a FREE Basic Membership! For more information: 866-764-1212 info@animalwellnessacademy.org https://animalwellnessacademy.org

This event is presented by the American Pet Products Association and Pet Industry Distributors Association. For more information: (203) 532-0000 globalpetexpo@americanpetproducts.org www.globalpetexpo.org Canadian Pet Expo April 15–17, 2022 – Toronto, ON The Canadian Pet Expo is a world-class pet show that promotes responsible pet ownership and celebrates all types of pets from all walks of life. This show features hundreds of vendors as well as interactive events, demonstrations, workshops and renowned speakers.

Petlover Show March 12–13, 2022 – Abbotsford, BC

This expo also offers intensive daylong certificate courses and over 55 professional development workshops. You will also find an extensive exhibit hall with more than 150 booths providing all the latest products and services! For more information: (800) 248-EXPO expo@humanesociety.org www.animalsheltering.org/expo Vancouver Island Pet Expo April 30– May 1, 2022 – Victoria, BC Vancouver Island Pet Expo is the only show of its kind and is designed to educate and entertain the public about the wonderful world of pets! This expo is a family-oriented show where you have the opportunity to see a wide variety of animals up close, experience talented pets during presentations and learn everything you need to know about your pet. Find booths full of pet products, service providers, entertainers, trusted pet experts, as well as clubs and organizations that cater to pets. For more information: info@pvevents.ca www.vancouverislandpetexpo.com

Featuring many new exhibitors with thousands of products and amazing show specials, the Petlover show is the place to be this winter! Attend interactive and informative seminars by veterinarians and top animal professionals, and don't miss the rabbit and dog agility shows, raptor shows, dancing dogs, and K9 detection demonstrations.

Whether it is entertainment, education or other opportunities you are seeking, there is something for everyone at this show.

16th Annual Alive! Expo May 14–15, 2022 — Atlanta, GA

For more information: www.canadianpetexpo.ca

Looking for something interactive? Bring your family dog to try the Paws on Activity Area where you can have your training questions not only answered, but demonstrated right at the show.

Animal Care Expo April 19–22, 2022 — New Orleans, LA

Every year Alive! Expo brings together local and national companies that specialize in natural and organic products and foods. You will find alternative practitioners as well as many great retailers showcasing their products including eco-friendly products for the home, pets, and the whole family.

A waiver is required for all pets in attendance. For more information: www.petlovershow.ca

This expo is the largest international education conference in the fields of animal care, control, rescue, and emergency services. The Expo offers an opportunity to learn new skills and strategies, and network with more than 2,500 animal care experts, professionals, and newcomers from around the world.

Alive! Expo is "The Natural Products & Green Living" consumer event and is a fun and exciting weekend for the entire family. For more information: www.aliveexpo.com

Email your event to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Animal Wellness

NEWSWORTHY

SEPARATION ANXIETY PEOPLE IN

AND

PUPS

WHO HAS WORSE SEPARATION ANXIETY: DOGS OR DOG PARENTS?

A new survey that focused on separation anxiety in humans and dogs found that 81% of women are willing to end a relationship with someone who does not allow their pet to accompany them as much as they wanted! Below are more key findings: •4 7% of Americans experience separation anxiety when away from their dogs. •7 3% are willing to adopt another animal if it will ease their current dog’s anxiety. •4 8% of both men and women said they cancelled plans because companion animals are not permitted. • A rating of 13% for Arizona makes it the number one state affected by separation anxiety, especially separation from dogs or cats. • New York ranks number two with a national anxiety rating of 11%. • 76% of dogs in the US experience separation anxiety. • Excessive barking is the most common anxiety behavior in dogs. • On average, Americans are willing to leave their dogs alone for a maximum of 6.7 hours a day. • On average, Americans are willing to part with their dogs for a maximum of nine days when traveling. • The most common remedies for separation anxiety in dogs are: exercise (46.4%), interactive dog toys (39.1%) and calming treats (34.2%). Calming music, formal training and calming vests also made the list.

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Certapet.com