Sunday, January 26, 2014

Cold Weather Safety for Your Pet



Winter is here and with it the cold weather. It also requires some special care and considerations for your pet's safety.  Here are some things to remember

  • Preventive Care Exam-The cold weather can make certain conditions worse and they may need extra support during this time of year for example arthritis may be more painful.
  • Cold Weather Tolerance- Be aware that each pet will have it's own tolerance for cold depending on coat, body fat, activity level,  age (puppies have a lower tolerance) and health. Diseases such as diabetes, heart and kidney disease may make it harder for them to regulate their body temperature and arthritis may be more painful.
  • Grooming and Dressing-Keeping your pet's coat longer during the winter can help keep them warm. Also dressing them properly (coat and booties) can help them maintain their body temperature. 
  • Avoid Over Exposure To the Cold - Even if they are dressed properly over exposure should be avoided.  This includes leaving your pet outside for long periods of time even in a car (just as in summer it can be dangerous) Frost-bite and Hypothermia can set in quickly.
  • Ice- Be caution of frozen bodies of water and don't let your dog off their leash. It might be thinner than you think. It can also be slippery and injury can occur
  • Wipe Their Paws and Coats- Paws can get dry and crack causing pain and infection. Wiping and check paws regularly can help. They may also come in contact with potentially hazardous substance (salt, antifreeze, deicers) and by wiping them down you can reduce the risk. 
  • Warm Place-Provide a warm safe place (away from drafts) for your pet.  Consider moving your outdoor pets inside. 
  • Plan Ahead- Be prepared for severe weather, blizzards, and power outages. Make sure you have enough supplies on hand in case of an emergency (food and medications).


Friday, January 24, 2014

Pasadena Bear Approaches Couple Standing on Porch


Bob and Irene McKeown don't see the bear on their porch!
Bear Approaches Couple Standing on Porch in Pasadena: When Bob and Irene McKeown return home to Scotland, they'll have quite a story to tell about their unexpected encounter in Southern California. While visiting the home of relatives in Pasadena on Tuesday morning, the couple was shocked to be approached by an unusual local resident.  Imagine how startled Bob McKeown must have been when he bent over to help his wife into the car and felt something brush up against his leg.  He turned around and what was there?  A bear cub!!!!  The baby bear is caught on video watching him leave his home following him to the car.  Must watch this video!  Chris Wolfe reports for the KTLA 5 News at 6:30 on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2014.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014

It's A Miracle: Beautiful Malamute Survives Liver Cancer




Willow

"Willow had her follow up scan and bloodwork today......4 months after surgery and diagnosis.  I’m so overwhelmed with gratitude and emotion I couldn’t wait to email you.  Her ALT level is normal!  Her ALKP is barely elevated!  Most importantly......the growth that was on the underside of the liver that was inoperable, is gone!!!!!  They did multiple scans in all different ways trying to find the tumor and it’s not there.  They looked at everything on her and nothing.  Everything is perfectly normal and healthy and the doctors said that if they didn’t know the history they would have questioned why they were even examining her.  She acts like a puppy and is so happy and energetic we almost can’t believe it.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!  You are an absolute angel from God."
Best,  The Wilcox Family 2014

Here are some of the Ask Ariel products that Willow is taking:
OncoPet Cancer Supplement
OncoPet


Resveratrol for Dogs



Curcumin For Dogs and Cats

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Dog Liver Cancer: Holistic Treatments Can Help


The liver is a major organ that helps to detoxify the body.  It is also the organ that carcinogens and toxic compounds pass through, which can be a factor in dogs developing liver cancer. In addition, similar to people, the liver can also be an organ into which a primary cancer (in another part of the body) can metastasize to, accelerating the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body. It is very hard to detect canine liver cancer in the early stages of the disease. Some of the initial signs may be abdominal pain, inappetance, excessive weight loss, or a mass in the abdomen may be felt by your veterinarian.  A definitive diagnosis of canine liver cancer can only be obtained when a liver biopsy is done.

 In conjunction with conventional veterinary care, holistic care can be of help to your pet. Since the liver can regenerate new tissue, it is one of the few types of cancer, where we have seen especially good results in dogs.   Several of our clients have sent us testimonials about their dogs living far longer than prognosis, even with large masses, using a holistic approach, along with their veterinarian's recommendations.


     Greta

"Thrilled to have had ONE additional year...IN January 2*0*1*2, I was informed that my girl, GRETA who is closest to me, sleeps by my side, accompanies me most anywhere, etc had TWO to FOUR weeks to live at the most..I was told she had inoperable liver cancer that had already spread to her lungs and was quite widespread.   Click here to view full testimonial





Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Why is My Dog Always Licking His Paws?



Licking of the paws is part of a normal dog’s grooming behavior, but if it becomes excessive it could indicate a problem. It is important for you to ask the following questions:
  • When did it begin?  Is it a lifelong problem or a recent occurrence?
  • Has anything changed in their environment, life style or diet? 
  • When does your pet lick and chew it's paws the most?
You should also consider if it happens after being out in the yard,  after your dog goes on a walk, after eating or if it is seasonal.  Do your dogs' paws seem to be bothering him or when he walks is he favoring a paw? These questions will help you pinpoint the cause of the behavior and the underlining problem. 

The most common causes are: 
Allergies- often a pet may have both food and environmental allergies but the symptoms only become noticeable during certain times of the year.  The K9 Yeast Defense Package combined with Proaller and Notatum can give them great relief.  The dog's paws often become wet and stained from the chewing which can lead to yeast overgrowth and a consistent "yeasty---cheese like" odor.  The Proaller and Notatum are very helpful for reducing itching and chewing.

To help with contact allergies, consider specialty dog socks to limit exposure when outside or soak their paws in the bathtub or sink  upon your return from outdoor activities.  For food allergies a special hypoallergenic diet may be required.  Keep the following ingredients out of your pet’s diet: Corn, Soy, Chicken, and Peanut Butter.

Bacterial And Fungal Paw Infections- Abnormal odor, pain, redness, swelling and limping are the most common signs of these infections.  They may need to be treated with antibiotics or holistic supplements. Put an end to your dog’s licking and discomfort once and for all. Unlike some ailments, a yeast infection in dogs can be treated by changing their diet and using a yeast killing formula like K9 Yeast Defense with Power Probiotic

Injury or Arthritis- Your pet will lick an injured or painful area to try and heal it.  If they are limping or appear stiff, check for an wound or tender area.  If it is determine to be arthritis related our Arthritis & Joint Support Kit could help a great deal.

Boredom or Psychological Causes-Self-grooming is the natural way that dogs pass the time , but it can also be an indicator of anxiety, stress or boredom.  Consider if it happens when you are away from your pet or a change in the household...With a little lifestyle adjustment such as: more exercise, giving  them distraction toys, or limiting their time alone your pet can stop the behavior.

Monday, January 6, 2014

What To Look For In A Good Pet Food

A good pet food should contain meat, poultry or fish clearly identifiable in the first ingredients.  There should be a healthy balance between protein, fiber, fats (especially Omega 3 fatty acids such as flax seed and fish oil) and a limited amount of carbohydrates. Even if a pet food  is “organic” or holistic, it may be filled with soy, potatoes, peas and flour, which can contribute to a variety of symptoms in some pets (allergies, UTIs, etc).  For example,  dogs on "grain-free"  dry dog food may still suffer with chronic yeast and skin problems because the food is filled with carbohydrates.    Pets need fresh ingredients in their food---add steamed green beans, chopped broccoli or butternut squash for extra fiber or nutrition.  Pumpkin puree is an excellent source of fiber and beta carotene and can help pets with digestive issues.  Avoid feeding just dry food---canned or raw are optimal along some homemade ingredients. For more information on pet nutrition see the article:  What do dogs eat? Dog Nutrition 101
Wednesday, January 1, 2014

New Year Resolutions for Pets

Happy New Year! It is the time of year when many of us are thinking about making resolutions. The most common resolutions for people can also apply to your pet.  So, as you begin your planning, be sure to include your pets and make 2014 the best year for both of you.


I will commit to a good nutrition plan
Just like people, good nutrition for your pet is the key to good health.  Often a  poor diet is responsible for health problems including obesity and associated diseases, skin and coat problems,  and allergies. Giving your pet a well balanced, age appropriate diet will help ensure a happy, healthy pet.  It is also important that the quantity of food that you give matches the life stage and activity level of your pet. Click here to learn more about what to look for in a good diet for your cat or dog.

I will commit to regular exercise with my pet
Regular exercise is important to keep your pet in good physical shape and reduce the risk of obesity.  It also reduces the risk of heart and joint problems.  It can be as simple as a daily walk or can be more strenuous depending on your pets physical condition. Exercise is a great way to bond with your pet and as an added benefit, an exhausted dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. To exercise a cat, you could play with them, making them chase a feather or string. 

I will commit to maintaining good grooming practices 
Regular grooming including, bathing, coat maintenance,toe nail clips, and teeth brushing (or non-anesthetic cleanings). They are not just to help your pet look good, but are important to their overall health.  Yes, no one likes a smelly dog or enduring “cat breath” , but they could be an indicator of an underlying medical condition.  If the problem does not resolve with regular grooming, please seek assistance from your veterinarian.  

I will commit to getting health check ups
A visit to your veterinarian regularly is a good way to stay ahead of any potential problems. Preventive care is much less expensive than waiting to deal with a major illness or condition and it can also save your pet from suffering.  Annual laboratory tests for all pets (even young pets) provides a “baseline” which can be invaluable.  Learn more about pet health conditions.

I will commit to keeping my pet safe
Keeping pets safe is something most pet owners take for granted, but there could be hazards lurking everywhere.  Take the time to make precautions in your home and yard.  Analyze what toxic substance your pet could gain access to and what chemicals are used in the area your pets reside. Also include an assessment of physical hazards such as fencing, choking hazards, swimming pools and anything that they could get caught on or fall from.

I will commit to ensuring my pet gets enough love and attention
Life gets busy and all too often, our pets take a backseat to other demands. Try to make time for your pet---quality can be more important than quantity.  Sometimes a neighbor or family friend may be eager to help you care for your pet and pet sitters can fill in for you on a long day.  Many doggie playcare places are affordable and can take the stress off of you if you are working long hours.