tag:www.naturalawakeningsnj.com,2005:/categories/natural-pet?page=2Natural Pet Natural Pet | Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey Page 2Healthy Living Healthy Planet2023-08-31T07:13:24-07:00urn:uuid:e57a1d15-9396-43e9-803f-7b76e86f08222022-12-13T15:19:14-08:002023-08-31T07:13:24-07:00Hidden Dangers in Pet Food: The Scary Truth About Toxic Ingredients2022-12-30 06:30:00 -0800Karen Becker<p>Among the many reasons to switch from ultra-processed diets to fresh food for our furry family members, unwanted toxins are high on the list. Because pet food manufacturers are not required to conduct quality control testing, consumers never know exactly what toxins their dogs and cats are inadvertently ingesting. According to <a href="https://www.petfoodindustry.com/" target="_blank">PetFoodIndustry.com</a>, “Some level of contamination is unavoidable.” Here is a look at the most common toxins found in many popular pet foods.</p><p><b>Arsenic</b><span><b> </b>is used in herbicides, insecticides, wood preservatives and insulation, as well as in chicken feed in factory farms. According to </span><a href="https://www.grains.k-state.edu/people/faculty/aldrich/" target="_blank">Greg Aldrich, Ph.D.</a>, associate professor and pet food program coordinator at Kansas State University, “The measured presence of arsenic in pet foods does not equate to toxicity for this naturally occurring earth element.” While this may be true, bioaccumulation can do significant damage over time if sublethal doses are consistently consumed. The gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels and skin are most vulnerable to arsenic damage, which interferes with hormones and causes <a href="https://www.naturalawakenings.com/article_tags/cancer" target="_blank">cancer</a> and death. To help pets with elevated arsenic levels, try iodine- and selenium-rich foods, including sea vegetables and Brazil nuts; sulfurous foods like garlic; alpha lipoid acid; and N-acetylcysteine.</p><p><span><b>Mercury</b> </span>is released into the air and waterways primarily through burning coal, and seafood is the most common route of exposure. It is best not to feed pets an exclusive diet of fish protein. On the other hand, seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to a pet’s well-being. Consider feeding them low-mercury options like wild-caught salmon, sardines packed in water, mussels or rainbow trout in rotation with other proteins, or supplementing their diet with krill oil or an omega-3 fatty acid that is third-party validated as contaminant-free and sustainably sourced. Mercury detoxification can be achieved by using chlorella and cilantro.</p><p><b>Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) </b>and<span><b> polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)</b> </span>are used as fire retardants and can bioaccumulate at high levels in large, predatory fish at the top of the food chain like tuna, tilefish, king mackerel, shark and swordfish. Research suggests that cats are especially sensitive to PBDEs and PCBs found at high levels in both canned and dry pet foods. Although PCBs were banned in the U.S. in 1979, they are still used elsewhere in the world and continue to pollute the oceans. These fat-soluble toxins can be cleared through the bowels, so add fibrous veggies and chlorophyll-containing foods or supplements to the pet bowl.</p><div class="image-with-caption image-main"><img alt="Pet food bowl full of fresh meat and vegetables" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/970149/fill/700x0/healthy-pet-food-diet.jpg?timestamp=1670973675"><div class="small"><p></p><p>Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock.com<br></p><p></p></div></div><p> </p><p><b>Bisphenol A (BPA) </b>is used in plastics and coatings inside pet food cans. It imitates the body’s hormones, especially estrogen, in ways that are damaging to the health of both humans and animals. A 2017 <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969716326274" target="_blank">study</a> conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri concluded that even a short-term (two-week) feeding of canned dog food resulted in a three-fold increase of BPA in dogs. Avoid canned pet foods and #7 <a href="/article_tags/plastics" target="_blank">plastic</a> food and <a href="/article_tags/water" target="_blank">water</a> bowls and storage bins. Provide ongoing BPA detoxification support by offering foods rich in <i>Lactobacillus acidophilus</i> (kefir and yogurt) and glutathione-rich foods, including culinary and medicinal mushrooms.</p><p><b>Dioxins</b>, a byproduct of industrial processes, can disrupt the signaling of both male and female sex hormones in the body. They’re found in much of the U.S. food supply, including factory-produced meat, fish, milk, eggs and butter. Offer pets <a href="/article_tags/organic" target="_blank">organic</a> food whenever possible. Because dioxins are fat-soluble, they are stored in adipose tissues. Try the Ayurvedic practice of lipophilic-mediated detoxification, which uses healthy fats, including ghee, coconut and MCT oil, to pull out fat-stored toxins.</p><p><span><b>Aflatoxin</b> </span>contamination has been the cause of several pet food recalls and major disease outbreaks for more than 20 years. Known to cause acute toxic illness and cancer, they are naturally occurring mycotoxins produced by fungi in <a href="/article_tags/agriculture" target="_blank">agricultural</a> crops. Corn, peanuts and cottonseed have the highest rate of aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxicosis is more common in dogs than cats because commercial dog food more often contains corn. Many animal studies demonstrate the efficacy of using ginger, thyme, broccoli, turmeric and carrots for aflatoxin detoxification.</p><p>The only way to know exactly what a pet is eating is to buy the ingredients and prepare nutritionally complete meals at home. When choosing a commercial pet food, make sure that it contains human-grade ingredients and that manufacturers employ quality control steps in their operations to test for contaminants.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Becker, DVM</i></a><i>, has spent her career empowering animal guardians in making knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a259dbbf-5ec4-4fa6-90b3-e062d1eb6c8d2022-11-16T12:36:47-08:002023-07-03T14:18:16-07:00Holiday Treats for Cats and Dogs: Easy-to-Make Festive Recipes to Delight Pets2022-11-30 06:30:00 -0800Tonya Wilhelm<p>The holidays are a great time to connect with loved ones, including family pets. Although treats bring such joy to their lives, keep in mind that not all foods around the holiday table are safe for dogs and cats. There are, however, plenty of pet-safe ingredients, some of which are actually beneficial.</p><p>Cranberries, for example, have been classified as a “superfood”, which means they provide many beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, such as vitamins C, E and K, plus manganese. They are also high in fiber, which supports gut health. When feeding them to a pet, it is important to choose 100 percent cranberries that do not contain any sugars or preservatives.</p><p>When cooking up a batch of pet treats, coconut flour is healthier than the traditional, all-purpose flour, because it contains more fiber, protein and healthy fats. It is also <a href="/article_tags/gluten-free" target="_blank">gluten-free</a>, making it a better alternative for pets with <a href="/article_tags/allergies" target="_blank">allergies</a>.</p><p>Beef gelatin is chock-full of health benefits for pets, as it contains amino acids that help break down food, repair body tissue, support the immune system and provide energy. Among its numerous advantages, gelatin strengthens bones, muscles and cartilage, while also improving gut health, skin and fur. Always check the ingredient list. Use 100 percent gelatin and make sure there is nothing else included, especially Xylitol or birch sugar.</p><p>Sweet potatoes provide a wealth of nutrients from which both dogs and cats can benefit. They are a good source of fiber and high in antioxidants, including beta carotene, which is rich in vitamin A and supports good cognition and lung strength.</p><p>Turkey breast supplies a wide range of B vitamins, including B6 and B12. It also provides iron, potassium, zinc and selenium, which help support a healthy immune system.</p><p>All of these treats make great presents. Place them in a decorative container and gift them to pet-loving friends and family.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://raisingyourpetsnaturally.com/" target="_blank"><i>Tonya Wilhelm</i></a><i> is a professional dog trainer with a holistic approach.</i></p><p><i><br></i></p><h3><b>Festive Recipes to Delight Pets</b><i><br></i></h3><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/11/30/418325/sweet-potato-gummies" target="_blank"><img alt="pphoto by Tonya Wilhelmbrp" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/964066/fit/80x80/sweet-potato-gummies-dog-treats.jpg?timestamp=1668631842" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/11/30/418325/sweet-potato-gummies" target="_blank">Sweet Potato Gummies</a></h4>
<p>These gummies made out of sweet potatoes are a tasty treat for cats. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/11/30/418325/sweet-potato-gummies">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/11/30/418326/healthy-cranberry-muffins-for-pets" target="_blank"><img alt="pAlexAdobeStockcombrp" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/964067/fit/80x80/dog-muffins-treats.jpg?timestamp=1668631854" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/11/30/418326/healthy-cranberry-muffins-for-pets" target="_blank">Healthy Cranberry Muffins for Pets</a></h4>
<p>These muffins are full of flavor and nutrition, and are healthy for both dogs and cats. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/11/30/418326/healthy-cranberry-muffins-for-pets">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/11/30/418327/easy-turkey-jerky-for-pets" target="_blank"><img alt="pphoto by Tonya Wilhelmbrp" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/964069/fit/80x80/turkey-dog-jerky-treats.jpg?timestamp=1668631867" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/11/30/418327/easy-turkey-jerky-for-pets" target="_blank">Easy Turkey Jerky for Pets</a></h4>
<p>This easy turkey recipe is a healthy snack for a cat and a great dog-training treat for the clever pooch. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/11/30/418327/easy-turkey-jerky-for-pets">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f5e8a30c-2d31-49e9-8a07-1f360c151ffa2022-10-21T10:05:09-07:002022-12-06T16:21:20-08:00Caregiving Companions: The Many Benefits of Service, Therapy and Emotional Support Animals 2022-10-31 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>Animals offer support to humans in innumerable ways, acting as loyal companions, providing soothing therapy and emotional support, and being attentive service animals for invaluable medical assistance. As animals increasingly take on these roles in public spaces, it is necessary to understand what each category offers and the type of access each is given.</p><p>“Some people misrepresent their animals as assistance animals in order to bring them to places where pets are not allowed, to avoid fees or out of a misunderstanding of the animal’s role,” <a href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/service-emotional-support-and-therapy-animals" target="_blank">states the American Veterinary Medical Association</a>. It points out that although service, therapy and emotional support animals are sometimes referred to interchangeably, they are distinct categories, each with its own definition.</p><h3>Assistance Animals</h3><p>As <a href="https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/assistance_animals" target="_blank">defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development</a>, an assistance animal is “any animal that works, provides assistance or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability.” If certain conditions are met, a person may be entitled to keep an assistance animal in a housing facility that would otherwise prohibit animals.</p><h3>Service Animals</h3><p>The <a href="https://adata.org/factsheet/service-animals" target="_blank">Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 defines</a> a service animal as “any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.” Aside from miniature horses, no other species are included.</p><p>Service animals perform such tasks as helping with navigation, pulling a wheelchair, assisting during a seizure, providing protection or rescue work, alerting a person to <a href="/article_tags/allergies" target="_blank">allergens</a> and interrupting impulsive or destructive behavior.</p><h3>Emotional Support Animals</h3><p>Emotional support animals (ESA), according to the Fair Housing Act and the <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals-including-emotional-support-animals" target="_blank">Air Carrier Access Act</a> (ACAA), can be any species. Both laws require a disability-related need and a recommendation by a medical or <a href="/article_tags/mental_health" target="_blank">mental health</a> professional. ESAs do not have to be trained to perform a particular task and may be permitted in otherwise banned housing facilities. Some international airlines allow them to travel at no extra cost. As of January 2021, following a U.S. Department of Transportation rule-tightening, virtually no American domestic airline allows ESAs to fly free. (Small dogs can still be flown by passengers paying extra.)</p><h3>Therapy Animals</h3><p>According to the ACAA, therapy animals may take part in animal-assisted interventions when there’s a “goal-directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process.” Animal-assisted therapy may involve dogs, cats, horses, llamas, pigs and other species, typically in hospitals, schools and rehabilitation centers.</p><h3>Why They Can Be Controversial</h3><p>While service animals are highly trained and can even receive certifications as psychiatric service dogs, ESAs are often pets that help a person to cope with daily life or situations they may otherwise find intolerable, such as being in stores, restaurants, museums and on airline flights and other public transportation.</p><div class="image-with-caption image-main"><img alt="Backside of teddy bear with arm around a black dog with red service vest on" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/957610/fill/700x0/companion-dog.jpg?timestamp=1666372806"><div class="small"><p></p><p>Willee Cole/AdobeStock.com<br></p><p></p></div></div><p> </p><p>Controversy has arisen when some people have pushed the line, claiming their pet is necessary for emotional support, but in reality, are just there to enjoy access benefits. Yet, in a survey of more than 500 Americans, both service dogs and emotional support dogs were viewed favorably, and most participants reported feeling that the majority of people with such dogs were not taking advantage of the system.</p><h3>The Many Benefits<br></h3><p>There is seemingly no end to the emotional, physical and mental benefits dogs offer to humans. Regular visits with therapy dogs may improve the well-being of people seeking addiction and mental health treatment. Animal-assisted interventions have been used among Canada’s correctional population, for which mental health, addictions and trauma histories are major concerns.</p><p><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2752/175303714X13903827487962" target="_blank">Research published in the journal <i>Anthrozoös</i></a> found that animal-assisted therapy decreased the need for pain medication in people receiving joint replacement therapy. Studies by the Delta Society suggests holding, stroking or simply seeing an animal may lower blood pressure while lessening feelings of hostility and increasing self-esteem. For children, service dogs can be trained to detect the scent of allergens like peanuts or <a href="/article_tags/gluten-free" target="_blank">gluten</a> in food and even provide comfort to them and adult witnesses in courtrooms.</p><p>Be aware that out in public, certain rules of etiquette apply. Service dogs, in particular, should never be approached, talked to or touched unless permission is granted by the dog’s handler. And take no offense if the handler says no. Distracting a working dog can result in potential harm to the handler and may interfere with the dog’s focus and ability to follow potentially life-saving commands or cues.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker, DVM</i></a><i>, has spent her career empowering </i><i>animal guardians<br></i><i>to make knowledge</i><i>able decisions to </i><i>extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:9f1438ab-6eb6-42d5-831a-93f1449a5eb52022-09-22T17:54:54-07:002022-11-04T07:17:12-07:00A Happy Halloween for Pets: Nine Ways to Keep a Dog or Cat Safe2022-09-30 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>Halloween is celebrated on October 31, and as always on this fun holiday for humans, it’s important to take precautions to ensure furry family members wake up healthy, happy and safe on November 1. Here are some potential hazards to avoid.</p><p><span><b>Chocolate</b>:<b> </b></span>All chocolate is toxic to both cats and dogs, and the darker it is, the more toxic. It contains a caffeine-like stimulant that when ingested by a pet, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, racing pulse and seizures. Make sure all family members and guests, including children, understand the importance of keeping chocolate away from the dog or cat.</p><p><b>Sugar-free goodies contai</b><b>ning xylitol: </b>This is a popular sugar substitute added to an increasing number of consumer products, including sugar-free candy, gum, mints and baked goods. A small amount of xylitol can cause a rapid and dangerous blood sugar drop in dogs, as well as acute liver failure. Xylitol’s effect on cats is unknown, but keep it far away from the kitties, as well.</p><p><b>Raisins and trail mix:</b> Instead of candy, some well-meaning people hand out tiny boxes of raisins or small bags of trail mix containing raisins and/or chocolate candy such as M&Ms. Unfortunately, raisins are toxic to dogs and cats, and can cause kidney failure even in very small amounts. Chocolate-covered raisins pose a double-barrelled risk.</p><p><b>Candy wrappers: </b>Halloween candy isn’t the only health threat for dogs and cats. Empty candy wrappers smell like what was in them, enticing a pet. The ingestion of foil and cellophane wrappers can cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction. It’s very important to stress to children, in particular, the need to keep all candy wrappers out of the reach of pets.</p><p><b>Candles and glow sticks: </b>Candles, including the small ones inside Jack-o’-lanterns, are fire hazards. Make sure they are well beyond a pet’s reach, so that a kitty doesn’t wander across a table or shelf decorated with lit candles or a dog doesn’t get too frisky with a carved pumpkin with a candle inside. Glow sticks and jewelry have become very popular, and pets (especially cats) have been known to chew on them. The substance that creates the glow is phenol, which can leak out and burn a pet’s fur and tongue. Choking on small pieces is another hazard.</p><p><b>Scary human costumes: </b>Some pets can become very fearful or aggressive at the sight of certain Halloween costumes, including those that may resemble a dog or cat. In such instances, take precautions to keep both a pet and trick-or-treaters safe.</p><p><b>Elaborate pet costumes: </b>Even if a pet isn’t costume-averse (many dogs and most cats are), make sure whatever is put on her is lightweight to avoid overheating, doesn’t confine or restrain their movement in any way and is free of any adornments they might be tempted to chew off and swallow. If they are frightened or annoyed by the puppy princess gown or the Grumpy Cat mask, be a pal and don’t force the issue. Let them enjoy the holiday, too. </p><p><b>Trick-or-treaters and other visitors:</b><b> </b>If lots of costumed kids or adults show up at the house on Halloween, be aware that a constantly ringing doorbell, knocks and strangers at the door and a general mood of excitement can create an overstimulating environment for a pet. Some pets become anxious, fearful and aggressive when their normally quiet, predictable evening is anything but. If a pet tends to find commotion at the front door or visitors stressful, it’s best to secure them in a quiet, safe spot before the action starts.</p><p><b>Open doors: </b>Animal shelters and rescue organizations typically experience an increase in lost pets in the days following Halloween. Opening and closing the front door for trick-or-treaters, coupled with the event’s high level of excitement, can create an opportunity for a frightened or adventurous pet to run off. Make sure a pet’s ID tag and/or microchip database information, if applicable, are up to date and take precautions to prevent them from slipping out the door and into the night.</p><p>Common sense and a little preparation will ensure a four-legged family member is none the worse for wear the next morning.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and improve well-being of their animals. </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:cacc9d38-1437-44f5-9716-fde335f521502022-08-18T11:18:57-07:002022-11-01T19:12:50-07:00Healthier Pets: Top Supplements for Dogs and Cats2022-08-31 06:30:00 -0700Shawn Messonnier<p>The market for pet products is awash with supplements, so it’s not surprising that it can be challenging to figure out what a dog or cat really needs. The foundation of any healthcare program for dogs and cats, regardless of age and breed, is a <a href="/article_tags/pet_nutrition" target="_blank">healthy diet</a>, well-chosen and appropriate supplements, minimal vaccines and medications, and veterinary check-ups.</p><p>Basic helpful additions to a pet diet include a vitamin-mineral product, an enzyme and probiotic combination, and a fatty acid. For older animals, a choline supplement may delay the onset of cognitive disorder. Any tweaking of diet and supplements should follow regular testing that may diagnose a disease in its early stages. Here’s an overview of the top basic supplements every dog or cat should have.</p><h3>Vitamins, Minerals and Joint Support</h3><p>To provide immune and antioxidant support, and to bolster digestion, skin and coat health and overall wellness, a basic supplement should contain vitamins and minerals as well as small amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.</p><h3>Enzymes and Probiotics</h3><p>Digestive enzymes are used in supplemental form to improve or increase digestion and nutrient absorption. They can be derived from pancreatic, plant or microbial sources such as bacteria or fungi. Enzymes are important especially when the animal’s digestive processes become exhausted or inefficient, such as during periods of stress or such gastrointestinal diseases as acute gastroenteritis, pancreatitis or either liver or inflammatory bowel disease. Enzymes may also be helpful for cancer, allergies and arthritis.</p><p>Probiotics are living, healthy bacteria and yeasts, many of which are a part of a dog’s or cat’s microbiome. They can assist with healing in a variety of ways, including producing healthy fatty acids; decreasing the attachment of harmful bacteria and yeasts to the intestinal walls; increasing antibody production; supporting immunity; restoring healthy GI flora; and reducing inflammation.</p><p>As a result, probiotics are useful for treating dogs and cats with a variety of medical problems, including leaky gut syndrome, acute non-specific gastroenteritis, antibiotic or other medication-induced diarrhea, allergies, stress, obesity, neurodegenerative disorders, high cholesterol levels, inflammatory and irritable bowel disorders, and GI and parasite infestations. Probiotics may also be helpful for middle-aged and older dogs and cats, because GI microbial diversity diminishes with aging.</p><h3>Fatty Acids</h3><p>A good fatty acid fish oil supplement is also important. There are many brands on the market; some offer the flexibility of being administered either as a liquid (pump) or gel capsule. Phytoplankton, which serves as a food source for fish, is the source of the active ingredients docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Fish oil tends to be derived from cold-water fish rich in EPA and DHA such as wild (not farmed) salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring.</p><p>This is beneficial for the treatment of heart disease and may reduce atherosclerosis, thrombosis (blood clots), coronary heart disease, arrhythmias, heart failure, sudden cardiac death and stroke. Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, fish oil is often used for dogs and cats for the treatment of skin problems, arthritis and cancer, along with heart, inflammatory bowel, autoimmune and kidney diseases. It may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy in cancer patients, decrease cancer growth and metastasis, and reduce wasting in undernourished animals. </p><h3>Choline</h3><p>For dogs and cats 5 years old and up, a choline (phosphatidylcholine) supplement addresses aging changes that affect the brain and can lead to cognitive disorder. Choline is a component of several major phospholipids that are critical for normal cell membrane structure and function. The body uses it to maintain water balance; to control cell growth and gene expression; as a component of lung surfactant; and most importantly, to produce the major nerve transmitter acetylcholine. It may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering homocysteine levels.</p><p>Choline is used to treat high cholesterol, improve memory and protect the liver. It may prevent fatty liver syndrome (especially in diabetics), help prevent or treat cognitive disorder and support liver function. It may reduce insulin requirements in diabetics and can reduce seizure frequency.</p><p>Supplements other than these can be used as needed, based on the results of diagnostic testing and regular veterinary health exams. Under the guidance of a holistic or integrative veterinarian, supplements can add to a dog’s or cat’s health and longevity. </p><p><i></i><br></p><p><i>Shawn Messonnier, DVM, owner of </i><a href="https://pawsandclawsanimalhospital.com/" target="_blank"><i>Paws & Claws Animal Hospital and Holistic Pet Center</i></a><i>, </i><i>in Plano, Texas, is the author of several books on veterinary medicine.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f56d779e-8049-49d2-bd92-60cb6977b9032022-07-19T10:40:08-07:002023-04-30T20:01:07-07:00Preventing Dog Dementia: Five Strategies to Preserve Cognitive Health2022-07-29 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>Among the many traits that dogs and humans share is the potential with aging for progressive cognitive decline, which canines can experience as early as 7 years of age. Clinical signs of cognitive decline appear in 50 percent of dogs over 11 and by the time they are 15, 68 percent display at least one sign.</p><p>The five classic and easily observable indicators of cognitive decline in dogs are decreased attention to surroundings, disinterest and apathy; decreased purposeful activity; increased sleep during a 24-hour period; intermittent anxiety expressed through apprehension, panting, moaning or shivering; and loss of formerly acquired knowledge, including house training.</p><p>Other symptoms include failure to respond to commands, difficulty hearing, inability to recognize familiar people and difficulty navigating their environment. Physical manifestations may show up as excessive licking, lack of grooming, fecal and urinary incontinence and loss of appetite.</p><h3>Gum Disease Linked to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction</h3><p>A connection has been established between Alzheimer’s disease and periodontal disease in humans, and a recent study has revealed a similar association between gum disease and canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). By comparing dogs with CCD and a control group of healthy dogs, New York integrative veterinarian Curtis Dewey, of Elemental Pet Vets, and Mark Rishniw, of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, found that older dogs with CCD tend to show higher levels of periodontal disease, and that the more severe the gum disease is, the more significant their cognitive decline. Based on these results, at-home and veterinary dental care may be very beneficial to reduce the risk of cognitive dysfunction and should be added to these CCD prevention steps.</p><p><b>1. Incorporate regular exercise, socialization and mental stimulation.</b><b> </b>While they can’t exert themselves with the same intensity as younger dogs, senior canines derive tremendous benefits from walks—especially unhurried “sniffaris”—and other age-appropriate physical activity and strengthening exercises. Short periods of play time with people and other pets in controlled situations can also help. Food puzzles and treat-release toys provide fun, mental stimulation, while brief training sessions refresh their memory or teach new skills.</p><p><b>2. Take them to twice-yearly wellness visits.</b><b> </b>Keep abreast of metabolic changes to catch disease early. Many Alzheimer’s patients have insulin resistance and persistent hyperglycemia, so keeping a dog’s A1c levels low and steady is important.</p><p><b>3. Optimize their nutrition. </b>The best fuel for canine cognitive health is a combination of healthy fats—especially omega-3 fatty acids like sustainably sourced krill oil and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil—and a variety of antioxidant-rich whole foods suitable for a carnivore, including high-quality protein. Eliminate refined carbohydrates like sugar, grains, potatoes and legumes, as well as extruded diets (kibble) that contain toxic byproducts of the manufacturing process that are linked to neurodegenerative disease.</p><p><b>4. Improve memory with nutraceuticals. </b>Because studies show that MCT in coconut oil can improve cognitive function in older dogs, add a quarter-teaspoon of coconut oil for every 10 pounds of body weight to food daily. Other supplements to consider are S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), jellyfish extracts, glutathione, resveratrol (Japanese knotweed), lion’s mane mushroom, vinpocetine, phosphatidylserine, curcumin, ubiquinol, digestive enzymes and probiotics.</p><p><b>5. Reduce doggie stress. </b>Senior dogs, especially those with dementia, often become disoriented. To help them remain stable and reduce anxiety, stick to a consistent daily routine, feeding and walking them on a set schedule. To control arthritis and degenerative joint disease, keep dogs active and at a healthy weight. Consider acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, stretching and hydrotherapy (exercising in water). If a dog is experiencing incontinence because of age (and not caused by an underlying condition that should be addressed), provide them with more frequent potty trips outside or reintroduce them to a crate if they were crate-trained initially. Acupuncture may also help.</p><p>If a dog has problems hearing or seeing, use odor cues like pet-friendly essential oils or pheromone products to help them find their way around. Also consider purchasing or building ramps if they’re having trouble getting into the car or up on the bed or a favorite chair. If they’re slipping or unsure on bare floors, add runners, yoga mats or area rugs.</p><p>For sleep problems, try increasing their daytime activity level. Let the dog sleep in the bedroom to ease any anxiety that may be contributing to nighttime restlessness. Melatonin supplementation may help. Guide the precious pet with clear cues and easy-to-follow instructions, and when talking to them, use a quiet, calm and loving voice.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker, DVM</i></a><i>, has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:47df30b1-1848-4db0-b867-fd13d739a3ab2022-06-19T13:01:49-07:002022-08-26T19:38:16-07:00Canine Calm: Anti-Anxiety Tips for Dogs2022-06-30 06:30:00 -0700Ronica O’Hara<p>When they signed the Declaration of Independence, little did our country’s founders know that more than two centuries later, their revolutionary act would lead to millions of dogs trembling, cringing and running for cover. As many as 45 percent of American pet dogs are struck with “fireworks phobia”, studies show, and more dogs run away over the July Fourth holiday than at any other time of the year, report animal control officials. </p><p>The kind of situational anxiety caused by sudden loud noises can affect almost any dog, but it happens most often to those pets predisposed to anxious behavior because of breeding or troubled pasts. A new <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2021.760845/full" target="_blank">study in <i>Frontiers in Veterinary Science</i></a> from the University of California, Davis, has found that even common noises such as a vacuum, microwave or beeping smoke alarm can trigger anxiety in many dogs, and that many owners don’t recognize subtle signs. </p><p>“Monitor your dog’s behavior for anything unusual, such as excessive barking, panting, shaking, trembling, licking or drooling,” advises John Woods, a New York City professional dog trainer and editor-in-chief of <a href="https://www.allthingsdogs.com/" target="_blank"><i>All Things Dogs</i></a>. “Also look for cues in your dog’s body language, paying particular attention to their eyes, ears, mouth and tail for other signs of anxiety or discomfort.”</p><p>Happily, research shows that a number of strategies can help soothe anxious pooches both from immediate terror and ongoing anxiety.</p><p><b>Turn It Around.</b> Swiss scientists at the University of Bern’s Companion Animal Behavior Group that analyzed the New Year’s fireworks strategies of 1,225 dog owners <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S155878782030037X#!" target="_blank">concluded</a> that the most effective method was what they called “counterconditioning”—turning a negative into a positive with treats. As the fireworks exploded, these owners played with their dogs, gave them chews and treats, and expressed positive emotions; their dogs were on average 70 percent less anxious. The method works best when a dog’s calmness is reinforced on a daily basis, say the researchers. </p><p>Megan Marrs, an Austin, Texas, dog trainer and founder of <a href="https://www.k9ofmine.com/" target="_blank"><i>K9 of Mine</i></a>, lowered her rescue pit bull’s anxious behavior by giving him cold, chewable treats whenever he calmly sat on his bed and didn’t cause trouble. “This did require keeping treats on me at all times, but it worked wonders,” she says.</p><p><b>It’s a Wrap. </b>The Swiss study also found that 44 percent of dogs became calmer during fireworks after being wrapped in a tight-fitting pressure vest. Sold commercially under such names as <a href="https://thundershirt.com/" target="_blank">ThunderShirt</a> and <a href="https://anxietywrap.com/" target="_blank">Anxiety Wrap</a>, the vests can also be easily improvised at home by following YouTube videos. A tight wrap helped soothe the trembling of Zed, the Japanese Chin of Amy Tokic, editor-in-chief of the Toronto-based <a href="https://www.petguide.com/" target="_blank">PetGuide.com</a>. “He’s still not comfortable with loud noises, but when he’s snuggly swaddled, he doesn’t get into a panic state over it,” she says.</p><p><b>Play Mellow Melodies.</b><b> </b>Studies have confirmed that music can ease situational anxiety for up to half of dogs, but the genre matters: classical soothes, heavy metal agitates. <a href="https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/health/calming-music-for-dogs-relaxed-pooch-playlist" target="_blank">Researchers at Pooch & Mutt</a>, a British natural-health dog food maker, surveyed Spotify playlists and concluded that the ultimate calming songs for dogs were reggae and soft rock, because of their simple arrangements, minimal electronic orchestration and gentle beats that match the heartbeat of a puppy’s mother. “The wrong music or music that is being played too loud has the potential to upset your dog,” warns London veterinary surgeon Linda Simon.</p><p><b>The Sweet Smell of Safety.</b><b> </b>The sense of smell in dogs is 10,000 times greater than that of humans, so the right scent—like of their lactating mother—can comfort them. Pheromones are synthetic or herbal formulations in sprays, collars, plug-in diffusers or wet wipes that replicate nursing scents, and studies have found them effective for many dogs during fireworks, thunderstorms, and for mild anxiety. Jeraldin Paredes, a New York City professional dog sitter at <a href="https://www.talkthebark.com/" target="_blank">Talk the Bark</a>, suggests simply using an old T-shirt to bundle up a pooch during a high-stress situation or to put as a “baby blanket” into their favorite hiding place. “That way, no matter where they hide, a piece of you is always with them,” she explains. </p><p><b>Speak Straight. </b>“Simply speaking with your pet can make a huge difference in their anxiety,” says animal communicator <a href="https://nancymello.com/" target="_blank">Nancy Mello</a>, in Mystic, Connecticut. “Don’t just say goodbye to them, but tell them how long you will be gone and when you will be back. Use a visualization: ‘I will be home at 7 p.m.,’ while visualizing your house at dark. Or say to an anxious pet, ‘You are safe,’ on a daily basis. Even if your pet doesn’t get the exact wording, they understand the connotation behind it.”</p><p><i><br></i></p><p><i>Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.</i></p><p><i><br></i></p><h3><b>More Home Remedies</b></h3><p><span>Pharmaceuticals are widely prescribed by veterinarians for highly anxious dogs and have a study-proven track record, but come with side effects. For example, the sedative acepromazine (ACP) actually increases noise sensitivity in dogs while lowering their ability to respond. Another sedative, dexmedetomidine (Dexdomitor), can pose serious health risks even at low doses. </span></p><p>Natural remedies, although seldom backed by large, double-blind clinical studies, have done well in smaller studies, pose few potential dangers and have proven their worth to many pet parents. It may take trial-and-error to find what works, a process that holistic veterinarians can help fast-track.</p><p>These approaches may be worth trying out at home:</p><p><b>CBD.</b> This non-psychoactive compound of the hemp plant, increasingly used for canine pain management, has been shown in some studies to calm dogs. It’s best to choose a high-grade, broad-spectrum, organic product in a tincture or oil form so the amount can be adjusted drop by drop, advises the American Kennel Society.</p><p><b>Pheromones.</b><span> The collars, sprays, mists, wipes and diffusers that deliver a calming scent to a dog have been found effective for many, but not all, anxious dogs in situations of loud noises, car travel and vet’s offices. Sprays work quickly, but last only a few hours; plug-in diffusers can be effective for as long as a month. Many are synthetic, petroleum-based products. Instead, look for pheromone products that employ essential oils, with one caveat: use caution if cats are around, because some essential oils are toxic to them. For a DIY approach, dab a drop of vanilla, coconut, valerian or ginger essential oil onto a bandana and if the dog likes the scent, tie the bandana around its neck. A British </span><a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328392821_Behavioral_and_cortisol_responses_of_shelter_dogs_to_a_cognitive_bias_test_after_olfactory_enrichment_with_essential_oils" target="_blank" title="Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328392821_Behavioral_and_cortisol_responses_of_shelter_dogs_to_a_cognitive_bias_test_after_olfactory_enrichment_with_essential_oils">study in <i>Applied Animal Behaviour Science</i></a><span> found those scents lowered barking and excessive activity in shelter dogs.</span></p><p><b>Fish oil.</b><span> </span><a href="https://www.purinainstitute.com/centresquare/therapeutic-nutrition/stress-related-behavioral-disorders" target="_blank">Purina researchers</a><span> found that adding DHA-rich fish oil to the diet of 24 anxious Labradors for 12 weeks reduced cortisol responses and lowered their heart rate during anxiety-provoking events for 21 of the dogs; it cut by almost half the time they spent jumping, pacing, spinning and barking. A general guideline is 300 milligrams of combined EPA/DHA per 30 pounds of a dog’s body weight. Other commonly used supplements to discuss with a veterinarian are L-theanine and L-tryptophan, amino acids shown to help calm down dogs with mild to moderate anxiety.</span></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:7b4c4c13-da58-421d-b7cd-a70994279b812022-05-16T11:38:32-07:002022-08-26T19:39:17-07:00Misbehaving Dog Walks: Ways Humans Get It Wrong2022-05-31 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>One of the primary activities we do with canine family members is to take walks because they love them and benefit from them. But just as some dogs, for a variety of reasons, are difficult to walk, some people are less-than-ideal dog walkers. </p><p>When we’re teaching our canine BFFs how to behave at the end of a leash, most of us aren’t nearly as concerned with our own behavior during these outings. We assume we’re doing everything right, and it’s our furry sidekicks that need correcting. But believe it or not, we’re just as capable of bad behavior during walks as the other way around. Here are a few reasons why.</p><p><b>Not allowing sniff time.</b><b> </b>A dog’s most acute sense is that of smell. She explores and experiences the world through her nose. Smell is a dog’s “first sense”, much as sight is ours. Just as we depend on our eyes to inform us of the world around us, dogs depend on their noses.</p><p>If we can imagine how it would feel to take walks with our eyes half-closed, then we can empathize with how it feels to our dog to be prevented from stopping to sniff things. It’s unnatural, slightly intimidating and, ultimately, boring. Dogs need lots of outdoor sniffing opportunities to help them learn about the world around them and stimulate their minds. </p><p>For a change of pace, instead of a normal walk, try taking the dog on a “sniffari”, letting him take the lead. Allow him to sniff whatever he pleases and make all the navigational and investigational decisions.</p><p><span><b>Ignoring the dog.</b> </span>Unfortunately, there are pet parents that do everything but pay attention to their dogs during walks. The daily activity becomes so routine that they do it without giving much thought to the furry fellow at the other end of the leash. This is a bad habit primarily for the danger it can pose to the dog that is often busy looking for dead or possibly deadly things to pick up in his mouth or interesting places to lift his leg (like a car door).</p><p>There is also the potential on walks for unexpected things to happen, like an unfriendly dog appearing seemingly out of nowhere or a car swerving dangerously close. Staying focused on our dog and our immediate environment affords the opportunity to react quickly when necessary, keeping both owner and pet out of harm’s way.</p><div class="image-with-caption image-main"><img alt="Small chihuahua dog with pink collar and pink leash on" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/921860/fill/700x0/small-dog-on-leash.jpg?timestamp=1652726547"><div class="small"><p></p><p>kiri/AdobeStock.com<br></p><p></p></div></div><p> </p><p>If boredom prevents being fully present on a walk, change the scenery. Instead of heading outside in the same old direction, buckle the dog in and drive a few blocks away or to a neighborhood park or nearby hiking trail. Everyone will find new things to see, smell and experience.</p><p><b>Choosing the wrong type of collar, harness or leash.</b> Many pet parents don’t realize the importance of choosing the right type of collar, harness and leash for their dog. Certain dogs should wear a harness and should never be leashed or even handled by the collar. These include dogs that pull or lunge while on a leash, those prone to tracheal collapse or a seizure disorder, and dogs with chiropractic issues involving the neck or back. Choke collars and other outdated training devices can cause pain and injury to a dog’s neck and in extreme cases, strangulation. They should be replaced with safer alternatives.</p><p>For walks, training sessions and whenever the dog will be on leash, use either a head collar or no-pull harness. Be wary of retractable leashes, which have the potential to injure both dogs and their owners. Flat leashes should be no longer than six feet.</p><p><b>Multitasking. </b>This almost always involves a cell phone. If we have a phone to our ear while walking, we have only one hand available for our dog. And even if earbuds are being used and the phone is in a pocket, it’s impossible to be present for both the pet and the person on the other end of the line. The dog will inevitably be the loser in this deal. And if texting, searching the internet or even listening to a podcast or audiobook while walking, our attention is not on the dog.</p><p>One of the most important gifts that can be given to our dog whenever we interact with him, including on walks, is our undivided attention. Put down the phone and other distractions and let him know through our focus how much he means to us.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:40945b88-9b6b-4d30-877c-d120f1e768042022-04-17T19:36:34-07:002022-06-01T09:15:39-07:00Saving Birds from Cats: Simple Strategies to Protect Feathered Friends2022-04-29 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>When they’re roaming outdoors, domesticated cats turn into natural-born predators. According to the American Bird Conservancy, domestic felines are the number one human-caused threat to birds in the U.S., killing an <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms2380" target="_blank">estimated 2.4 billion birds</a> every year. Cats have contributed to the <a href="https://abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Doherty-et-al.-2016-Invasive-predators-and-global-biodiversity-loss.pdf" target="_blank">extinction of 63 species</a> of birds, mammals and reptiles in the wild. </p><p>New studies suggest ways to let a cat enjoy the outdoors without endangering winged species. </p><h3>Use Rainbow-Colored Ruff Collars<br></h3><p>A small study by the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) suggests that when bright, rainbow-colored ruff collars are placed on free-roaming cats, it reduces the number of birds they kill. Birds have excellent color vision, and the flashy collars work as an early warning system of impending stealth attacks. “To the bird, this rainbow color stands out like a sore thumb,” says Ken Otter, chair of the UNBC Department of Ecosystem Science and Management. “It’s the opposite of a hunter’s camo.”</p><div class="image-main"><img alt="Bright rainbow-colored ruff collar for cats" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/914803/fill/700x0/rainbow-ruff-collar.jpg?timestamp=1650249431" title="Image: //cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/914803/fill/700x0/rainbow-ruff-collar.jpg?timestamp=1650249431"></div><p> </p><p>Another study at the UK University of Exeter focused on 219 cats whose owners regularly let them hunt outside. The researchers divided the cats into six groups, including a control group that didn’t change their habits. For 12 weeks, the owners took pictures of every animal their cats brought home and found that collar covers like those used in the Canadian study reduced the numbers of captured birds by 42 percent.</p><h3>Feed Them a Fresh Meat Diet<i> </i></h3><p>The UK researchers found that when cats were fed a high-meat protein, grain-free food, they brought home 36 percent fewer dead birds and other wildlife. Because cats are strict carnivores, a balanced diet rich in fresh animal meat, fed raw or gently cooked (rather than rendered meat or meat meal), meets their nutritional needs and reduces their urge to kill prey animals. A feline family member will do best with a diet that replicates that of captured prey: high in moisture content with excellent-quality meat, moderate amounts of high-quality animal fat and a very low percentage of carbohydrates. This means absolutely no kibble. </p><h3>Play with a Cat Daily </h3><p>Households in which owners engaged in five to 10 minutes of daily object play with their cats (using, for example, an interactive feather toy like Da Bird) reported a 25 percent decrease in captured prey, according to the UK researchers. </p><p>“Cats who are young and still kittenish will play with almost anything. Older cats who’ve been around the block a few times and know how to hunt and play with their toys do tend to get bored more easily,” explains feline behaviorist Marci Koski, Ph.D. “I recommend having a number of different lures and wand toys in your toolbox.” </p><h3>Avoid Cat Bells or Puzzle Feeders</h3><p>Cat bells have “no discernible effect” on cats’ prey catch, the UK researchers report. Puzzle feeders containing kibble actually increased killed prey by 33 percent, perhaps because of cats’ “inability to easily access food and resulting hunger or frustration,” they write.</p><h3>Have Them Hunt Indoors for Food</h3><p>To ease boredom, give a cat opportunities to “hunt” for their food indoors. Try separating his daily portion of food into three to eight small meals, fed throughout the day in a variety of puzzle toys, or indoor hunting feeder mice. Or, hide his food bowls in various locations around the house. Start with one bowl in his usual spot, and then place his food portion into additional bowls in other areas where he is sure to find them. If there is more than one cat, keep the bowls in separate areas of the house.</p><h3>Give Cats Safe Outdoor Access</h3><p>For reasons of safety and overall health and longevity, cats should be kept indoors, but with regular supervised access to the outdoors. Training her to walk on a harness and leash can be an ideal way to allow safe, controlled access to the great outdoors. An alternative is a catio (cat patio), which is a safe outdoor enclosure that allows a kitty secure access to the outdoors. The enclosure should be open-air, allowing the cat to feel fresh air and sunlight, but shielded enough to prevent escape or a predator from getting inside. It also keeps birds safe.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ea04e33d-0699-4add-84d0-e04aa3492e482022-03-13T10:40:05-07:002022-12-30T07:51:36-08:00Pest Control: Keeping Dogs Safe from Ticks and Fleas2022-03-31 06:30:00 -0700Karen Shaw Becker<p>Fleas and ticks are different types of pests; so, when considering how best to protect a dog, it is important to make a distinction—fleas are an annoyance, but ticks can be life-threatening. Many veterinarians recommend specific chemicals as a preventive solution, but this is often just a knee-jerk approach that uses chemicals to control nature. Instead, consider more natural alternatives that are both effective and non-toxic.</p><h3>Fleas 101<br><b></b></h3><p>Fleas are related to ants and beetles, feed on blood, and their bites can lead to irritation and skin allergies. They aren’t typically attracted to healthy pets; so, one of the best defenses against flea infestations is to feed a dog a nutritionally balanced, species-appropriate, fresh-food diet that will help keep their immune system functioning optimally. It is also important to remove the environmental factors that can negatively impact immunity, including:</p><ul><li>Poor water quality. Make sure to provide fluoride- and chlorine-free drinking water.</li><li>Too many vaccines. Insist that the veterinarian runs titer tests instead of giving unnecessary shots.</li><li>Toxic household chemicals, including cleaning products and dog beds treated with flame retardants. </li><li>Pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers used in the yard.</li><li>Toxic levels of electromagnetic fields from electrical devices in the home.</li></ul><h3>The Trouble with Ticks</h3><p>Ticks are a type of arachnid related to mites, spiders and scorpions. Because ticks feed on many different animals (including humans, dogs, cats, squirrels, mice, opossums and deer), they are quite good at acquiring and transmitting diseases, some of which can be life-threatening.</p><p>Unfortunately, a single tick bite can expose a dog to multiple pathogens, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and babesiosis. Luckily, most dogs mount an effective immune response. Up to 90 percent of dogs may have been exposed to tick-borne pathogens, but most are able to fight off infection on their own.</p><p>The only way to know if a dog has effectively eliminated harmful bacteria is to follow up the typical blood test with a second test called a quantitative C6 that differentiates exposure from infection. Large numbers of dogs each year are unnecessarily treated with extensive antibiotic therapy because their veterinarians panic after seeing a positive exposure and fail to check for infection.</p><p>To catch tick-borne infections before they take hold, ask the veterinarian to replace the standard annual heartworm test with the SNAP 4Dx Plus (from Idexx Labs) or the Accuplex4 tests (Antech Diagnostics), which screen for heartworm, Lyme disease and four other vector-borne diseases. Completing one of these simple blood tests every six to 12 months is the best way to protect a dog. In tick-infested areas, if a dog tests positive on either of those two tests, it should also be screened for babesia exposure with a polymerase chain reaction test.</p><h3>Before Reaching for a Chemical</h3><p>Pet parents should not automatically apply potentially toxic chemical agents to their dogs or around their home to repel or kill pests. The use of spot-on products may cause skin irritation, paralysis, seizures and even death, if used improperly, and there are effective, natural alternatives that are far safer. If these chemicals are used, follow these precautions:</p><ul><li>Be very careful to follow dosing directions on the label. If a pet is at the low end of a dosage range, use the next lowest dosage. Monitor the pet carefully afterwards for adverse reactions. Do not under any circumstances apply dog product to a cat.</li><li>Every other month, rotate chemicals with natural preventives, including diatomaceous earth, pet-friendly, essential oil products and natural deterrent collars. In many parts of the country, people can successfully control ticks with one chemical dose in the spring and one in late summer.</li><li>To detox a dog’s liver afterwards, give them a supplement such as milk thistle, a detox agent that helps to regenerate liver cells, or chlorella, a super green food. Work with an integrative veterinarian to determine the dosage; one dose daily for seven days following any chemical flea-, tick- or heartworm-preventive application is recommended.</li></ul><h3>Safe Options to Chemicals</h3><p>There are safe, non-toxic alternatives for flea and tick control for dogs, and they do not have side effects, unlike virtually all forms of chemical pesticides. These include: </p><ul><li>Cedar oil, specifically manufactured for pet health</li><li>Natural, food-grade diatomaceous earth, applied topically</li><li>A fresh-food diet that is nutritionally optimal and species-appropriate </li></ul><p>It is important to bathe and brush a dog regularly and perform frequent full-body inspections using a flea and tick comb to check for parasite activity. If they spend a lot of time outdoors, be sure to check pets and people for ticks every night during tick season.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><p><i><br></i></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/03/31/392874/homemade-pest-deterrent-for-dogs" target="_blank"><img alt="adogslifephotoAdobeStockcom" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/906904/fit/80x80/flea-ticks-dogs.jpg?timestamp=1647193385" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/03/31/392874/homemade-pest-deterrent-for-dogs" target="_blank">Homemade Pest Deterrent for Dogs</a></h4>
<p>Recipe for an all-natural pest deterrent that will help a dog avoid a good percentage of the pests they encounter. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/03/31/392874/homemade-pest-deterrent-for-dogs">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3e1c252e-fcbe-4d62-9ff2-243e48289afa2022-02-02T13:24:52-08:002022-04-29T07:41:05-07:00Beyond Kibble: How to Shop for the Healthiest Pet Food2022-02-28 06:30:00 -0800Sheila Julson<p>People are always striving to improve the quality of life for their pets. For some, this means making homemade dog and cat food or buying meat directly from a local butcher, but not all pet parents have the necessary time, space or finances. While there are better quality kibble and canned pet foods available today than in the past, along with frozen raw and freeze-dried raw foods, an overwhelming volume of choices can confuse even the savviest consumer.</p><p><a href="https://greenleafvmd.com/" target="_blank">Cecille O’Brien Greenleaf</a>, a holistic veterinarian in San Jose, California, advises pet parents to use the same criteria they do when shopping for human food—look for the freshest, cleanest ingredients possible, a limited ingredient panel and no chemicals and pesticides.</p><p>“Look for human-grade ingredients that offer the most vitality,” she emphasizes. She notes that some larger manufacturers have been caught using the least expensive ingredients they could find, including diseased animals that have been rejected from the human supply chain.</p><p><a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/reading-food-labels" target="_blank">Ingredients on panels</a> are listed by weight from highest to lowest, so the first one listed is the one that weighs the most. It should be pure meat—chicken, beef, venison or fish. Proteins such as chicken liver, organ meat or eggs may follow. “If there are many synthesized items in the ingredient list, that is to be avoided,” she says.</p><p>Frozen raw and dehydrated raw foods provide optimal nutrition while more closely mimicking pets’ primal eating patterns. The extrusion process that some pet food manufacturers use to make kibble can overcook the product. To compensate, synthesized vitamins are often sprayed onto the finished product, similar to how many children’s breakfast cereals are produced, she explains.</p><p>When purchasing kibble, look for brands that are minimally processed and provide vitamins directly from the ingredients; a long list of supplements on an ingredient list means the food has been highly processed.</p><p>There has been recent debate within the animal care community as to whether grain-free diets are more helpful or harmful to pets. O’Brien Greenleaf notes the jury is still out on how some grains affect pets or whether grain-free diets are better. “It depends on how contaminated or genetically modified the grains are, and whether grains agree with your pet,” she says. Testing is now available to help determine ingredients to which a pet may be allergic. </p><p>She also recommends adding high-quality fish oil to pet’s food to help quell inflammation that can cause skin issues and other disorders.</p><h3>Smaller Manufacturers Emphasize Quality Control</h3><p>Randi Ross owns the franchise in Campbell, California, for <a href="https://bensbarketplace.com/" target="_blank">Ben’s Barketplace</a>, a Northern California pet food store chain that specializes in quality foods for dogs and cats. She notes that corporate mergers and acquisitions over the years have put many large pet food brands that are carried at big-box stores into the hands of conglomerates that also produce candy, soap and other non-pet products. This can lead to lack of oversight and quality control issues.</p><div class="image-with-caption image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897394/fill/700x0/healthy-pet-food.jpg?timestamp=1643837182"><div class="small"><p></p><p>279photo/AdobeStock.com<br></p><p></p></div></div><p> </p><p>Many smaller, specialty pet food stores carefully screen the brands they carry. They offer products made by smaller companies that produce just pet food and embrace a holistic, farm-to-table philosophy regarding how they source their ingredients and manufacture their foods.</p><p>The melamine pet food recall of 2007, in which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found chemical contaminants in vegetable proteins imported from China used as ingredients in pet food, prompted many people to look for “Made in the United States” on packages. However, even if a brand is labeled as American- or North American-made, it doesn’t necessarily mean all of the ingredients were sourced from America, Ross says.</p><p>Freeze-dried raw meal toppers and pour-over broths have become popular ways to add nutrition and flavor to kibble. When purchasing those products, she says, the same rules apply as when shopping for food: look for single or limited-ingredients on product panels and be wary of excessive filler ingredients like corn or wheat.</p><p>“We help educate people on the true cost of pet ownership,” Ross says. “Spending a little more money now on high-quality pet food ultimately keeps dogs and cats healthier, reducing the need for veterinarian visits, pharmaceuticals and antibiotics.”</p><p><i></i><br></p><p><span><i>Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to </i>Natural Awakenings<i> magazines throughout the country.</i></span></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e046cea6-daf5-45c0-9832-f50fa45847ef2022-01-12T11:28:52-08:002022-03-01T19:10:43-08:00Fostering Love: Tips for First-Time Pet Foster Parents 2022-01-31 06:30:00 -0800Karen Shaw Becker<p>For people that love cats and dogs but can’t adopt one—or one more—a heartwarming solution is to foster pets without homes that need a place to temporarily lay their heads and be loved until a forever home comes along. Fosters are needed when a shelter is filled to capacity or has too many large or old dogs, or orphaned puppies and kitties, for example, or when a rescue operation needs to quickly place shelter dogs that would otherwise be euthanized. As important and rewarding as the task of fostering is, it also comes with responsibilities and pitfalls worth considering in advance.</p><p><b>Check out the possibilities. </b>In addition to Googling local animal shelters and rescue operations, online groups like <a href="https://www.petfinder.com/" target="_blank">Petfinder</a> and <a href="http://www.poorpawsrescue.com/" target="_blank">Poor Paws Rescue</a> provide links to fostering options locally and nationwide. Visit local shelters to observe both how they treat their animals and how they interact with the fostering volunteers. Staff members can help with finding compatible pets and offer support when a foster situation doesn’t work for whatever reason. Also find out if the organization is involved every step of the way, including providing onsite veterinary care, or whether it relies heavily on the dedication and resources of foster parents.</p><p><b>Think about short-term fostering. </b>To give it a try, volunteer for a short-term commitment—a few days or weeks. Vacation time is one big reason rescue organizations look for people willing to provide short-term fostering because they need volunteers to fill in while their “regulars” are away.</p><p><b>Be fair to other pets at home. </b>Don’t get caught up in the needs of a new kitten or puppy so much that the needs of other pets go unnoticed. Forever pets may even help out with newcomers. “In my home, puppies work well, as my dogs mother them and show them the ropes on how to be a good dog,” says Stasia Thompson, of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, a volunteer with <a href="https://almosthomedogrescue.rescuegroups.org/" target="_blank">Almost Home Dog Rescue</a> and <a href="http://www.poorpawsrescue.com/" target="_blank">Poor Paws Rescue</a>.</p><p><b>Don’t stress about cost.</b><span><b> </b>Food, litter, toys and even veterinary care is often offered to foster pet parents. In other cases, rescue centers may be struggling for support or getting slammed with natural disasters that create an influx of homeless pets, and foster parents may be asked to help with such items as crates and carriers, food and water bowls, collars, leashes and treats. “Homeowners who purchase items for their fosters can write them off as tax-deductible donations to the rescue organization, which is a great way to put your donation dollars to work,” says Karen Winkler, a volunteer with the </span><a href="https://buckscountyspca.org/" target="_blank">Bucks County SPCA</a> and the <a href="http://www.acctphilly.org/" target="_blank">Animal Care & Control Team of Philadelphia</a>.</p><p><b>Don’t stress about placement.</b><span><b> </b>Possibly the most-asked question about fostering a puppy or kitty is, “What if they never find a home for her?” Never fear; shelters and rescue groups are constantly putting out feelers. Foster parents can get in on the action by posting sweet, winsome or funny photos of the animal on social media and extolling its virtues to others when out in public with it. Thompson found new owners for her foster dogs by walking them around town wearing bright yellow “Adopt Me” vests.</span></p><p><b>It’s okay to fall in love with a foster pet.</b><span><b> </b>Many people hesitate to foster pets because they’re afraid they’ll fall in love with a small ball of fur or a big pair of liquid eyes just begging to be adored. But that’s one of the risks of loving a creature with an open heart. “There is an amazing rush and deep sense of relief when you hear from the person who adopted your foster and you know the people found their true love in your foster,” says Winkler. “They know I helped save them. You can see it in their eyes.”</span></p><p><b>It’s even fine to adopt a foster.</b><span><b> </b>It does happen sometimes; foster parents discover that the dog or cat that came into their home supposedly for a while happened to fit in perfectly, and no one can imagine living without it. While that’s been called a “foster failure”, it’s anything but. Any time an animal with no home finds one filled with love and caring, even if it’s their so-called temporary foster placement, it’s a success. Pet parents know when the animal they love is forever.</span></p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:bdcc9c60-d6ea-4c43-bd23-6baa0efb5d252021-12-08T09:26:50-08:002022-02-06T08:18:04-08:00Pet-Pleasing Food Trends: What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year2021-12-30 06:30:00 -0800Ronica O’Hara<p>Dog and cat food is becoming ever more humanized in the U.S. Market researchers and veterinarians report that consumers are increasingly demanding for their pets what they want for themselves: high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients that are free of questionable byproducts. “Organic, gluten-free and even vegan are now mainstream when it comes to Fido and Fluffy,” says <a href="https://www.chagrinfallspetclinic.com/" target="_blank">integrative veterinarian Carol Osborne</a>, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “Fancy foods, gourmet treats, even personal pet chefs have become the norm.” In a turnabout on animal testing, some companies advertise that their pet food products are tested on humans.</p><p>It’s the logical outcome of an evolution in how pets are regarded, say psychologists. Only a few decades ago, most dogs slept in doghouses rather than in bedrooms, and most cats were free-range explorers of the outdoors. Today, two in three American households have a pet, and the animals are increasingly part of the family—sometimes even more beloved than human family members. One <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0193397317300084" target="_blank">study,</a> for example, found young children more likely to confide in a pet than in a sibling.</p><p>A mattress company <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/novosbedcom-sleep-survey-reveals-humans-like-sleeping-with-their-pets-248380821.html" target="_blank">survey</a> found that 71 percent of pet owners sleep with their furry friends. The forced togetherness of the pandemic drew pets and owners even closer. “Today, pet owners want to reward their pets in every way possible to let them know how grateful they are for the unconditional love and companionship they provide,” says Osborne.</p><p>The urge to lovingly pamper pets starts at the food dish with many emerging trends.</p><h3>Custom Tailoring</h3><p>According to market analyst firm Mintel, three in five U.S. pet owners are willing to pay more for foods that are customized to their pet’s specific dietary needs, a trend being eagerly met by more than 700 brands and 10,000 products. Today, a dizzying array of foods are tailored to pets’ ages, breeds and physical and emotional conditions. <a href="/2021/02/26/348055/canine-obesity-when-doggies-need-diets" target="_blank">Obese dogs</a> can chomp down on high-protein, low-fat foods; anxious pups can mellow out with foods that contain <a href="/2021/09/30/368628/cannabis-and-canines-how-cannabidiol-benefits-dogs" target="_blank">hemp and CBD oil</a>; and dogs prone to kidney stones may find relief on a renal-support formula. Consumers unable to purchase pricey, specialized formulas are making kibble less boring by adding flavorful mix-ins and toppers such as shredded tuna and lamb liver flakes.</p><h3>Going Plant-Based</h3><p>The slow but sure rise in the number of Americans that eat natural, <a href="/article_tags/plant-based" target="_blank">plant-based</a> diets has its parallel in animal diets. <a href="/article_tags/organic" target="_blank">Organic</a> pet food free of pesticides, antibiotics and chemicals constitute a robust, $22-billion-a-year business in the U.S., and vegan pet food sales are predicted to grow globally by 12 percent a year. Ancient grains like amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and millet are included in gluten-free formulas to satisfy a small but growing market. To make plant-based chow more appealing, pet food makers are adding savory flavors and substituting chemical enhancers with kitchen ingredients like vinegar.</p><h3>Rethinking Meat</h3><p>Some manufacturers are replacing chicken and beef with more adventurous, gamey proteins such as rabbit, venison, bison and wild boar. “Products are advertising how you can bring out their inner wolf by feeding them that food, because it is more natural to their instincts,” says <a href="https://vippuppies.com/dr-heather-venkat/" target="_blank">Heather Venkat</a>, the acting public health veterinarian for Arizona. Revenues are predicted to nearly double from $277 million in 2018 to $525 million in 2025 for a growing favorite: raw meat in the form of freeze-dried kibble.</p><h3>Ethical Buys</h3><p>Consumers are examining labels to find pet food that is <a href="/article_tags/sustainability" target="_blank">sustainable</a> and responsibly sourced. “‘Made in the USA’ remains a popular claim and feature that may even be increasing, along with a demand for ethical claims, sustainability concerns and cause marketing,” writes Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of <a href="https://www.petfoodindustry.com/" target="_blank"><i>Petfood Industry</i></a>. In a <a href="https://www.packagedfacts.com/about/release.asp?id=4627" target="_blank">survey</a> of U.S. dog and cat owners conducted by Packaged Facts in early 2020, 69 percent reported concern about the treatment of animals raised for use in pet food.</p><h3>Cautionary Notes<br></h3><p>When buying pet food, veterinarians urge pet owners not to be overly swayed by advertising claims. “For example, the words ‘holistic’, ‘ancestral’, ‘instinctual’, ‘gourmet’ and ‘premium’ are really just marketing. On the other hand, ‘organic’, ‘natural’ and ‘human-grade’ all have specific definitions when they are applied to pet foods,” says <a href="https://petnewsdaily.com/about/#experts" target="_blank">veterinarian Jennifer Coates</a><span>, of Fort Collins, Colorado, author of <i>The Dictionary of Veterinary Terms</i> <b></b></span>and an advisory board member of <a href="https://petnewsdaily.com/" target="_blank">Pet News Daily</a>.</p><p>“Most importantly, watch how your pet does while eating a particular food. If your pet is maintaining a healthy weight and has normal digestive function (firm stools, no vomiting), good energy levels, normal amounts of shedding and that ‘glow’ of good health, the diet you’ve picked is probably a good match,” she says.</p><p><br></p><p><span><i>Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com</i><i>.</i></span></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f6387386-7415-40eb-b467-63b3560121352021-11-12T10:06:28-08:002021-12-30T06:56:08-08:00Toyland for Pooches: Choosing Safe Playthings a Dog Will Love2021-11-30 06:30:00 -0800Karen Shaw Becker<p>Most healthy dogs retain their love of play throughout their lives. Because canine family members can be loosely compared to perpetual human toddlers, it makes sense that they enjoy playtime no matter their age.</p><p>Most dogs are also fascinated, at least temporarily, with toys made just for them. Some love to chase a ball or Frisbee and others like a good game of tug or stuffed toys. Most dogs seem to enjoy playthings that squeak when they bite them, possibly because the noise brings to mind the sound of captured prey, or perhaps because pet parents give their dogs extra attention when they “get their squeak on”. </p><p><span>Most dogs in the U.S. have lots of toys, and many pet parents practice trial-and-error to determine what type their dog prefers—and which are safest—from a mind-blowing selection of tugs, balls, discs, chews, puzzles, squeaky or <a href="https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2019/06/28/dogs-and-their-stuffed-animals.aspx">stuffed toys</a> and more. Because many pet stores welcome dogs, some pet parents even bring their four-legged family members along and allow them to sniff out their favorites.</span></p><p>It’s important to select a dog’s toys carefully, because not every option is a good choice. For example, some dogs, especially large breeds, tend to rip soft toys apart within seconds to taste-test the stuffing. There are also dogs that can swallow small soft toys whole. A pup’s temperament, size and age all play a role in determining which toys are safe, and there are also considerations based on the toy itself, such as materials used, size, shape and more. </p><h3>Potentially Toxic Toys</h3><p>Pet toys are not regulated, so they can be made with virtually any material. Plastic toys, in particular, can be dangerous, because many contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol-A (BPA). Old or weathered toys such as those left outside leach higher concentrations of harmful chemicals.</p><p>While BPA-free toys are available, the toxin may have been replaced with similar—or even more toxic—chemicals, including bisphenol-S (BPS), so “BPA-free” unfortunately isn’t a reliable indicator of toy safety. Other adulterants found in dog toys include heavy metals like lead and formaldehyde.</p><p>When looking for new toys, choose those made in the U.S. out of 100 percent natural rubber, organic cotton or other eco-friendly and contaminant-free materials. Try the sniff test. If a toy being considered smells strongly of chemicals, put it back. Testing shows that some tennis balls made for pets contain more contaminants than those made for sports. </p><p>The best toys for pets are usually hand- made by individuals or very small companies and can be found at local farmers’ markets or sold regionally in small, independent pet stores. There’s no plethora of companies that produce 100 percent organic toys, but some great, all-natural toys can be found online.</p><h3>What Dogs Seem to Prefer</h3><p>Researchers have discovered that regardless of the type of toy, once a dog is completely familiar with the sight, sound, smell and feel of it, boredom can set in. In addition, we may want to avoid “indestructible” toys the dog can’t make a dent in, because they enjoy toys they can pull apart and destroy, or those that are edible. </p><p><span>Offering a dog easily destroyed toys isn’t ideal, either, as they may accidently or intentionally ingest some of the non-edible pieces. A good alternative is <a href="https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2018/05/09/best-dog-bones.aspx">recreational bones</a> (large, raw chunks of beef and bison femur bones), which are quite enjoyable to most dogs, even though they’re not technically toys. Lick mats that hold a soft food treat are also a great environmental enrichment choice for dogs that tend to destroy toys quickly.</span></p><p>Treat-release puzzle toys, toys meant to be chewed and those that make noise or are edible (like a nontoxic dental bone) can also be good options, while toys that are hard, unyielding and silent will probably not be a big hit.</p><p>Don’t underestimate our human ability to stimulate a dog’s interests. A session of playtime—playing fetch, tug-of-war or hide-and-seek—will be far more stimulating to the pup than any toy could be. </p><p><br></p><p><i>Veterinarian </i><a href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank"><i>Karen Shaw Becker</i></a><span><i> has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals</i><i>. </i></span></p><p><i><br></i></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/30/374633/tips-for-selecting-safe-dog-toys" target="_blank"><img alt="Samia LiamaniUnsplashcom" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/867404/fit/80x80/dog-toys-guide.jpg?timestamp=1636740929" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/30/374633/tips-for-selecting-safe-dog-toys" target="_blank">Tips for Selecting Safe Dog Toys</a></h4>
<p>Recommendations to help in choosing toys that will keep a dog not only happy, but safe. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/30/374633/tips-for-selecting-safe-dog-toys">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>urn:uuid:5089596d-9f52-4ce2-8753-a51972a0e6392021-10-21T15:02:30-07:002021-12-06T07:54:43-08:00Honoring the Loss of a Pet: Simple Ways to Grieve and Heal2021-10-29 06:30:00 -0700Marlaina Donato<p>French novelist Anatole France’s sentiment, “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened,” rings true for anyone that shares a love story with a beloved pet. Whether we lose a cat, dog, horse, bird or lizard, the final parting can be quite emotional. Society supports us with empathy and rituals of closure when we suffer the loss of a human love, but grieving an animal companion can be a uniquely silent passage. Surrendering fully to the mourning process, creating a joyful ceremony and celebrating the life of a loved one invites healing and solace.</p><h3>Sacred Grief</h3><p>The animal-human alliance is hallmarked by the absence of emotional baggage, and is therefore capable of provoking grief that equals or exceeds losing a close relative. “This is a deep bond that is never judgmental on how we look, spend money or what we do for a living, as long as we love and nurture. And, in return, we receive undying, unconditional love,” says <a href="https://www.pawstocelebrate.life/" target="_blank">Pam Baren Kaplan</a>, a pet loss grief counselor and life coach in Chicago. </p><p>Diane Stout, a pet parent and retired dog groomer in Paupack, Pennsylvania, knows the impact of this unconditional love, especially through life’s changes. “Long after a spouse has died and family have moved away to other lives and preoccupations, the family pet remains the faithful dinner or TV time companion,” she says. “A cherished pet is often the last true companion.”</p><p>Cancelling appointments or taking time off from work after a pet’s passing does not connote emotional weakness. “Treat yourself with the same kindness you would show another person going through this difficult time,” advises Cheryl Wyatt, a certified grief companion at <a href="https://www.lapoflove.com/" target="_blank">Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice</a><span>, a national network of veterinarians that provides compassionate end-of-life care<i>. </i>“Allow yourself the time to do your mourning work. Tears are cleansing. If they happen to come 10 hours or 10 years from now, you have permission to shed them.” </span></p><h3>Compassionate Transitions </h3><p>Loving an animal until the last goodbye includes relieving their suffering to the best of our ability. In-home euthanasia can make a heartbreaking time more bearable for both pet and owner. “Providing beloved pets euthanasia at home differs from a clinical setting because it allows them to remain in their safe, happy place. At home, the veterinarian can greet the pet family and provide the loved one’s peaceful passing wherever they are most comfortable—a favorite bed or spot on the couch—surrounded by all those who love them most,” explains Wyatt.</p><p>Pet funerals are becoming more common, and ceremonies are as unique as the animal remembered. Stories, poetry and memories can be shared by family and they can include a living memorial such as a tree planted in the animal’s name. </p><p>Stout, also an accomplished artist, finds joy in painting her pets that have gone and suggests “a scrapbook of pictures and memories, because a look back at puppy or kitten pictures can bring an instant smile.”</p><p>Kaplan agrees, “Creating what I refer to as ‘a legacy of love’ can be done by the entire family or by one person. This is a book that you put together with favorite photos of your pet and journal the story around the photo. This is a great way to include family member’s memories from their perspective.”</p><p>Choosing a unique, handmade vessel for ashes can honor an animal. Mary Jane Panebianco, owner of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SpiritpetShop" target="_blank">SpiritpetShop on Etsy</a>, was inspired by the passing of a co-worker’s dog. “At the time, I worked in a mixed media art gallery, and she had one of our ceramic artists create her dog Sandy’s memorial urn. It was beautiful and so well done. I did some research on the pet industry, and everything I found was so commercial and mass-produced. I knew pets and their owners deserved another option.”</p><p>Panebianco works with a small number of award-winning American artisans and accepts custom orders for handcrafted urns. “Many of my pet parents have told me how having a beautiful memorial for their beloved pet helps them make peace with their pet’s passing. It’s the last thing you will do for them.”</p><p>In the beginning and in the end, it’s all about the love. For Stout, it’s what animals teach us. “To play and dance often, to give unconditional love, loyalty and friendship, to find joy in the little things, and that life is too often short.”</p><p><br></p><p><a href="http://wildflowerlady.com/" target="_blank"><i>Marlaina Donato</i></a><i> is an author and recording artist.</i></p><p><i><br></i></p><h3><b>Advice for the Bereaved</b></h3><p>Cheryl Wyatt, of the Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, recommends: </p><p>• Set aside some time each day to be alone in a quiet place to give yourself space to grieve.</p><p>• Honor the memories. </p><p>• Write out your emotions freely in a journal; compose a poem or letter to your pet.</p><p>• Light commemorative candles in his/her honor.</p><p>• Create a memory table—include all of the things that remind you of your beloved pet. Leave it up for as long as you like.</p><p>• Continue to speak to your loved one, sing to him/her whatever brought you joy in being together.</p><p>• Wear a piece of jewelry that bears your pet’s name or contains a small amount of his/her remains.</p><p>• Join an online group or meet in person with other people that are going through the mourning process.</p><p>• Don’t let people that don’t grasp the depth of the human-animal bond tell you how you should feel. </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakeningsnj.com">Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey</a></small></p>