V22I3 (Jun/Jul 2020) by Redstone Media Group

ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS

WHAT TO DO ABOUT HIS

COPING WITH

COVID

SEPARATION ANXIETY

BACKYARD

LEARN TO

CLICKER TRAIN

ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR DOGS

YOUR CAT!

HOW YOUR DOG’S DIET AFFECTS HER

behavior

OZONE THERAPY

CAN

HELP YOUR PET?

JASPER

— THIS ADVENTURE PUP IS INSPIRING THOUSANDS OF PET PARENTS TO

#CONNECTWITHNATURE!

JUNE/JULY 2020 Display until July 6 2020 $6.95USA/Canada USA/Canada $6.95

VOLUME 22 22 ISSUE 3 3 VOLUME ISSUE

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Animal Wellness

CONTENTS June/July 2020

Columns

19 CANINE

BEHAVIOR

Does your dog have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is common in canines, but don’t despair. Follow these four important steps to a calmer, more relaxed dog.

22 MODALITY

42 Features

ow your dog’s gut microbiome 14 Haffects his behavior

Canine behavioral problems like anxiety and aggression can have many causes, and an out-ofbalance microbiome may be one of them.

OVER STORY 42 CJasper

This adventure pup is inspiring thousands of dog parents to #getoutside!

W hy crate training your dog is important

Find out why you it’s a good idea to crate train your dog, and how to do it so she’ll be safe, happy and comfortable.

hat telemedicine can do for your 60 Wdog or cat

Telemedicine has its drawbacks and legal limitations, but it also offers some advantages, especially to animal parents who don’t have holistic vet clinics nearby.

Animal Wellness

HIGHLIGHT

How ozone therapy helps dogs and cats

Innovative, effective and safe, ozone therapy is being used in veterinary medicine for everything from ear infections to cancer.

24 EMOTIONAL

32 NEWSWORTHY

Study reveals that dogs’ noses can detect heat Dogs are known for their keen sense of smell. But scientists have discovered their noses also have the ability to detect weak thermal radiation.

34 HEALTH ALERT

8 ways to care for your dog or cat during the pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has turned all our lives upside down. Here are some tips to help ensure your dog or cat stays safe and healthy during this challenging time.

WELL-BEING

36 EATING WELL

If you have two or more dogs, chances are they’ve made friends with each other…but what if they haven’t? Find out why they aren’t getting along, and how to resolve the conflict.

For a powerhouse of healing nutrition, mushrooms can’t be beat. Find out which varieties are good for your dog, and try the recipes!

When your dogs don’t get along

28 HERBS FOR HEALING

Top 6 herbs to relieve anxiety in cats

Thanks to their sensitive natures, cats are more prone to stress and anxiety than many other animals. From California poppy to valerian, these herbs help calm anxious kitties.

7 mushrooms you can share with your dog

50 FUN & GAMES Backyard play for dogs

Looking for at-home ways to keep your dog fit, active and happy? These backyard play ideas will get him going!

14 54 Q&A

65 FELINE HEALTH

73 CLEVER CATS

Seizures in dogs are scary, and there are many possible causes. CBD is showing promise as a way to help.

Has your cat just had surgery? This guide to caring for her will help ensure she makes a successful recovery.

Contrary to what many people think, clicker training isn’t just for dogs. Read on to learn how you can use this effective training tool with your cat.

Can CBD alleviate seizures in dogs?

58 THE GREAT

Caring for your cat after surgery

72 NEWSWORTHY

OUTDOORS

Dog people believe they’re happier than cat people

Choosing the right lifejacket for your dog

There are dozens of different doggie lifejackets available. Here’s how to choose the option that’s best for your canine companion!

Can I clicker train my cat?

76 FOCUS ON

Are you a cat person or dog person? According to this study, those who fall into the latter group are statistically happier!

FITNESS

4 simple stretches for dogs

Help keep your dog limber with these gentle stretches.

22 Departments 8 From the Editor 12 In the news 18 From the NASC 41 Business profile

— Nature’s Logic

45 Product picks

Social Media

49 Training tips 79 Marketplace 63 Summer specialties 80 Must reads 68 Wellness resource 81 Classifieds guide 70 Let's get social 71 Product profile —

82 To the rescue

StripHair Gentle Groomer

Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine

Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness

Animal Wellness

ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS

VOLUME 22 ISSUE 3

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Content Editor: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Alyssa Dow Social/Digital Media Manager: Jamie McClure Editorial/Multimedia Specialist: Rebecca Bloom Web Design & Development: Lace Imson Cover Image Courtesy of: Jon Sinclair, @sinclair_photo COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Suzi Beber, Honouris Causa Bill Bookout Christine Caplan, CVT Dorothy Cole Nicole Ellis, CPDT-KA Andrea Gronwald Moira Hechenleitner, DVM, CSAT Katie Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP Ingrid King Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA Rob Kovler Helen Krasner Shawn Messonnier, DVM Mark Newkirk, VMD Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Greg Tilford Tonya Wilhelm ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Susan Smith Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden Subscription Services/Marketing & Administration Associate: Brittany Silloats

ON THE COVER

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

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

ADVERTISING SALES National Sales Manager/Editorial Associate: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Multimedia Consultant: Britt Silver, (866) 764-1212 ext 226 britt@redstonemediagroup.com Multimedia Consultant: Jamie McClure, (866) 764-1212 ext 227 jamie@redstonemediagroup.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Libby Sinden classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (866) 764-1212 ext 115 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues. DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call Libby at (866) 764-1212 ext 100 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at (705) 742-4596 or e-mail at libby@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Jon Sinclair, @sinclair_photo

Jasper is a happy-go-lucky husky mix who loves the great outdoors — and being photographed! With nearly 50,000 followers on Instagram, he and his human, Jon, enjoy nothing better than hiking the wilderness and sharing their adventures online. Turn to page 42 for Jasper’s full story.

Animal Wellness

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2020. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: May 2020. proudly supporting

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

FROM THE EDITOR

Using cuddles to cope with

COVID A

s I write this, it feels like the world is upside down. Most of us are working from home, venturing out only for groceries and pet food. We’ve all been stressed about our jobs, worrying about the virus, as well as toilet paper (seriously!), and trying to stay in touch with family members and friends who may be more vulnerable. I have to say, in our home, the bright spot in this crisis has been the animal antics that keep us all laughing on a daily basis. In the “time before COVID-19”, we used to take our dog to the office every day, while the cats stayed home. Now that we’re all home, we’re noticing so much more. Whether it’s our daughter’s Hemingway cat, Jewel, unwittingly making shadow figures as she flexes her extra toes, or our dog, Muffie, barking indignantly at the cats when they jump on a counter or do something else she feels is “out of line” (who made her the disciplinarian?), it’s a nonstop comedy show. It can be complete chaos one minute, with the animals taunting and chasing each other around the house; and the next, they’re collapsed a foot apart, snoozing away. While the three girls work through this new dynamic, there’s one thing we can be absolutely sure of. If you sit down anywhere in our house, one or two of them will immediately cuddle up beside or on top of you. In these challenging times, it’s important to take steps to minimize our stress any way we can. The same applies to our animal companions. Your dog or cat is very good at picking up on your feelings, so you need to take his mental/ emotional wellness into consideration too. This issue offers ways to help you do that.

For example, check out our tips on how to best care for your four-legged friend during the pandemic. We also provide comprehensive advice on separation anxiety in dogs, along with suggestions for defusing tensions between household dogs that don’t get along. Read up on the top herbs for calming anxious or aggressive cats, and find out how nutrition can affect your dog’s behavior. This issue also offers some great ideas for having fun with your dog this summer, without straying far from home. If you’re doing any boating, be sure to read our article on choosing the right lifejacket for your canine co-captain. Concerned about getting veterinary help for your dog or cat during this time of closures and social distancing? Then you’ll want to learn about telemedicine, and how you can use this valuable tool to get assistance for your animal if a problem crops up. Covering all the bases for your dog or cat’s health and wellbeing will help you weather the current storm with better peace of mind. Stay well, remember to breathe, and accept and give all the cuddles you can!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Cheif

Visit our facebook page at facebook.com/AnimalWellnessMagazine 8

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CONTRIBUTORS Veterinarian Dr. Moira Hechenleitner graduated in 2007 from Mayor University College of Veterinary Medicine in Santiago, Chile. She is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), a postgraduate in Animal-Assisted Therapy, and has completed courses in Bach Flower Therapy for animals, dog training, and Reiki. Dr. Hechenleitner is a founding board member of the Chilean Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT Chile), and has worked as a canine behavior consultant for ten years. She currently resides in Mystic, Connecticut and works remotely with clients from several countries. p. 19 Veterinarian Dr. Katie Kangas graduated from the University of Wisconsin Veterinary College in 1993. She achieved her CVA certification at the Chi Institute in 2008, followed by additional training in Advanced Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Herbal Medicine and Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation. Dr. Kangas owns Integrative Veterinary Care in San Diego, California. Her areas of special interest include nutrition/food medicine, dental health and pain management. p. 14 Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier wrote The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn — The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics. His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. p. 60 Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1981 and opened a practice in Margate, NJ. After practicing traditionally for 16 years, he met and studied under Dr Marty Goldstein, a pioneer of alternative medicine. As Dr. Newkirk’s practice grew, he moved to his current location in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, where he blends traditional and alternative

Animal Wellness

medicine, including chiropractic, homeopathy, NAET, frequency laser, Chinese herbs, and rehabilitation therapies (newkirkfamilyveterinarians.com). He consults with clients across the country and will work with your veterinarian “long distance” to help animals everywhere. p. 22 Veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker received her degree from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. She owns/ operates Natural Pet Animal Hospital, Feathers Bird Clinic, TheraPaw Rehabilitation and Pain Management Clinic and Covenant Wildlife Rehabilitation in Illinois. She co-authored Real Food for Healthy Pets and hosts a holistic animal wellness website (mercolahealthypets.com). p. 76 Christine Caplan is a Certified Vet Tech, and a long-time PR veteran and content marketing expert who brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three hounds — two “doxies” and a beagle/basset hound mix — who constantly teach her about life and companionship (mylifewithdogspdx.com). p. 24 Dr. Suzi Beber has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for two decades. She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She is the recipient of a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and received the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, for her work in cancer, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund is the recipient of the “Pets + Us” Community Outreach Champion Award. p. 36 Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs as a volunteer for two Humane Societies. Andrea and

her dog were also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She has taught group and private classes, helping people forming happy relationships with their dogs. Andrea is a strong proponent of positive training methods. p. 46 Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats with a BIG Attitude. Her blog, “The Conscious Cat”, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. p. 73 Greg Tilford is a well-known educator in the field of botanical veterinary medicine. He is the author of the acclaimed book Herbs for Pets — The Natural Way to Enhance your Pet’s Life (2nd edition, Fox Chapel Books, 2009). p 28 Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who promotes positive ways to prevent and manage behavior issues. Named one of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive training methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers dog training classes; provides training and behavior services; and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com). p 50 Helen Krasner grew up on a farm in the south of England, and has had cats from childhood. She has been a freelance writer for many years, writing on many subjects, but specializing in cats. Her other interests include yoga, traveling, and holistic health. She lives in a small town in Derbyshire, in the center of the UK, along with her partner David and their five much-loved cats. p. 65

Animal Wellness

IN THE NEWS BILL WOULD BAN HUNTING DEER WITH DOGS

HOW MANY PHOTOS OF YOUR DOG DO YOU TAKE? If you take more photos of your dog than of human family members, you’re not the only one. Even before the COVID-19 virus, which has many of us homebound, a study conducted by rover.com revealed that 65% of dog parents admit to taking more photos of their canine companions than of their significant others! Here are some further findings from the study: • 94% of dog parents consider their dogs part of the family • Nearly 50% of those polled said they find it harder to leave their dogs for a week than they do their human counterparts • 56% greet their dogs as soon as they walk in the door, usually before saying hello to the rest of the family • 50% have cancelled social obligations to hang out with their dogs.

Rover.com

DOCUMENTARY PROMOTES INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein and director Cindy Meehl (Buck) are proud to introduce their new documentary, THE DOG DOC. Exploring the question of whether we are overmedicating our animals (and ourselves), the film features real life interviews along with scientific findings that show the healing powers of integrative medicine. As a pioneer in the field, Dr. Goldstein, who was also one of our earliest columnists at Animal Wellness Magazine, has worked with four-legged patients from around the world. He provides holistic care for animals that other vets have given up on. To learn more, watch the documentary at YouTube.com/watch?v=GSbiQNtiFJ4.

Animal Wellness

On February 18, a bill to end the use of dogs to hunt deer was introduced in California. SB 1041, the Hunting Deer with Dogs Prohibition Act, is sponsored by non-profit animal advocacy organization, Social Compassion in Legislation. If passed, it would make California the 40th state to end the practice of using dogs to hunt deer, which is currently the last species of game mammal in the state that is still allowed to be hunted with dogs. Animal advocates have long argued that using dogs to hunt deer is brutal. “A pack of hounds tramping through our ecosystems is likely to come across a wide range of species beyond deer,” says Judie Mancuso, founder and CEO of Social Compassion in Legislation, “not to mention companion animals and humans, and can injure or kill simply because that is what they are trained to do.”

SocialCompassionInLegislation.org

HELPING MORE ANIMAL VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Photos courtesy of RedRover

In situations of domestic violence, dogs and cats are also victims. RedRover is launching an extension to its Relief Safe Housing program, which will allow animal shelters and rescue organizations to create onsite housing for animal victims of domestic violence. Grants of up to $20,000 each are being offered to organizations throughout the US, and may be used to build additional space to house animals in a private area.

According to research conducted by Dr. Frank Ascione, as many as 71% of female animal parents entering domestic violence shelters report that their abusers injured, killed or threatened family animals. Additionally, up to 48% reported that they delayed leaving their abusers because they feared what would happen to their animals. “RedRover’s new Safe Housing grants for animal shelters enable more domestic violence survivors to leave an abusive relationship knowing their pets have a safe place to stay,” says Nicole Forsyth, RedRover President and CEO. “Animal shelter staff have the experience to care for animal victims and give them the TLC they need to begin the road to recovery.”

RedRover.org/relief/safe-housing-animal-shelter-grants/

Animal Wellness

How your dog’s gut microbiome affects his behavior By Katie Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP

CANINE BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS LIKE ANXIETY AND AGGRESSION CAN HAVE MANY CAUSES, AND AN OUT-OF-BALANCE MICROBIOME MAY BE ONE OF THEM. LEARN HOW YOUR DOG’S GUT HEALTH CAN INFLUENCE HIS BEHAVIOR. If you’ve been learning about your dog’s (or your own) microbiome, you may be familiar with the term “gutbrain axis”. Several years ago, medical scientists suggested the gut was the “second brain” because so many of the neurotransmitters used by the brain and nervous system are created in the gut. However, the latest research suggests the enteric system (gut) may actually be viewed as the first or primary brain. That’s because gut health and microbes influence mental condition and behaviors such as aggression and anxiety (as well as immune function and overall health) in both humans and animals. Let’s take a look at how your dog’s gut health can impact his behavior.

BACTERIA IN THE GUT COMMUNICATE WITH THE BRAIN Gut bacteria make chemicals that communicate with the brain through the nerves and hormones — this connection is called the gut-brain axis. In fact, it is now known that many key chemicals and hormones used by the brain and nervous system, such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA, are produced in the gut.

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Serotonin impacts mood and anxiety, and has actually been termed the “happy chemical” because it contributes to emotional well-being, while low levels of serotonin have been associated with depression. It is estimated that 70% of serotonin is made in the gut. Dopamine is involved in motor function, mood, decisionmaking, and the control of other hormones. Reports estimate that about 50% of dopamine is produced in the gastrointestinal tract by enteric neurons and intestinal cells. GABA regulates stress, anxiety and sleep patterns, and is known to be modulated by bacteria in the gut microbiome. To be clear, “microbiome” is the term used to describe the vast ecosystem of bacteria, fungi and viral organisms that live within the bodies of all other living organisms, including you and your dog. Our microbe populations actually far exceed the number of our cells. In fact, the number of microbial organisms living in just the intestinal environment is ten times greater than the number of cells in the host’s body!

Everybody’s microbiome is essentially like a fingerprint, unique to the individual, but animals within the same species will have many similarities. The more diverse the microbiome is, the healthier the person or animal will be!

BEHAVIORAL ISSUES ARE PART OF THE SCENARIO A recent blog from Animal Biome states: “clinical studies are finding that gut bacteria send important chemical messages to the brain, and these chemical messages can have a big impact on one’s mood”. These effects depend on which bacteria are in the gut, because different species make different chemicals. Certain bacteria make chemicals that have a calming effect, while others may promote depression and anxiety. Animal Biome offers fecal testing to analyze the microbiome status of dogs (and cats). I frequently recommend this type of testing for my patients, and the results often show a moderate to significant gut bacteria imbalance. Known as a dysbiosis, this imbalance is an underlying factor in many gastrointestinal diseases such as IBD, as well as systemic body problems like allergies. If a dysbiosis is identified, a fecal transplant treatment offers excellent therapeutic potential for repopulating the animal’s gut with good microbes, ultimately bringing his gut function and immune system into better balance. This type of testing and treatment is gaining more attention in the veterinary field, but its focus so far has been on disease issues related to the gut or immune system. However, new research may have us looking at fecal testing and transplant treatment for behavioral disorders as well. Continued on page 16.

MODERN FOOD PRODUCTION PRACTICES DAMAGE THE MICROBIOME

The microbiome’s diversity and balance determine much of the body’s gut function, immune system status, brain function, and even patterns of inflammation. A healthy microbiome depends on many factors — the type of diet and daily nutrients ingested, antibiotic exposure, leaky gut versus healthy gut, etc.

Antibiotic exposure is of huge concern. The use of antibiotics in the production of food animals greatly exceeds the known overuse of antibiotics in the medical industry (prescription medications). Added to that, we have the

use of Monsanto’s Round-Up, which is technically an antibiotic as well as a weedkiller. These modern day practices are depleting and/or causing an imbalance in the microbiomes of both people and their dogs.

We now understand that heavily processed foods (i.e. those treated with extreme or high heat) along with the

toxins in many foods, are causing gut inflammation and leaky gut syndrome, and altering the gut microbiome. New research points to the significance of high carbohydrate diets (which break down into sugars in the body), and how they are affecting the microbiome, when compared with evolutionary-appropriate meat-based diets.

In short, highly processed pet foods — i.e. heavily-heated foods with more carbohydrates than dogs were

designed to eat, along with antibiotics and toxins in the ingredients — are negatively affecting microbiome status and overall health.

Animal Wellness

LOOKING AFTER YOUR DOG’S MICROBIOME

While more research needs to be done into the connection between gut health and behavior problems, there are things you can do to help maintain a healthy microbiome in your own dog. Feed him the highest quality, least processed diet possible, and opt for organic non-GMO ingredients when you can. Talk with a holistic or integrative veterinarian about having a fecal test done to analyze your dog’s microbiome, and/or about giving him probiotics and Omega-3 fatty acids. If your dog has existing behavioral issues, such as anxiety or aggression, take him to the veterinarian for a complete checkup before assuming it’s his microbiome. Behavior problems can have many other causes, from physical pain to emotional stress. Continued from page 15.

THE LINK BETWEEN CANINE AGGRESSION AND GUT MICROBES A new groundbreaking study at the University of Oregon shows a clear link between aggressive behavior in dogs and the microbes that live in their guts. The study analyzed a population of similar-breed rescued dogs in a shelter setting, and compared evaluations of behavior with microbiome status via a series of fecal tests. While this study could not distinguish the exact relationship between cause and effect, it reveals that the gut microbiome may contribute to aggression or its severity, and that manipulation of the microbiome, via probiotics or dietary changes, may modify behavior. The results also suggest that analyzing the canine gut microbiome may have some predictive value in the diagnosis of aggressive behavior conditions. However, it is not yet fully understood if both aggressive behavior and the gut microbiome are similarly affected by other variables such as inflammation or cortisol levels (which are elevated by chronic stress). Another recent study, reported in Science Direct (January 2020), evaluated gut microbiome and adrenal gland activity in dogs with aggression and fear-related behavioral issues. The study evaluated the connections between the dog’s gut microbiome and the central nervous system, and discussed the potential for using probiotic interventions aimed at restoring a balance for mitigating behavioral disorders. The researchers also found that long-term stress scenarios do influence gut microbiome

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composition. More research is needed to decipher the precise cause and effect relationships between canine behavioral disorders and the gut microbiome.

DIETARY INTERVENTION MAY MODULATE BEHAVIOR These new findings contribute to a better knowledge of the mechanisms that connect gut microbiota and behavior, and how problem behaviors in dogs may be affected by dietary means. The Science Direct study concluded that, “ultimately, this type of research provides insights into veterinary behavioral medicine, which may help to develop a predictive diagnosis of canine behavioral disorders”. Other research has looked at how dietary interventions can modulate anxiety and depression behaviors. Findings published in Science Direct (January 2017) demonstrated that the addition of DHA (i.e. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those in fish oils or cod liver oil) produced a beneficial effect on behavior, apparently through the action of altering the community composition of bacteria in the body. Molecular Psychiatry (April 2016) reported “the gut micbrobiome is an increasingly recognized environmental factor that can shape the brain through the microbiota-gut-brain axis”. This particular study demonstrated that dysbiosis may have a causal role in the development of depression behaviors. This is validated by another study (PNAS 2011) which found that ingestion of a particular Lactobacillus probiotic strain regulated emotional behavior, due to its effects on the production of GABA. These findings introduced the opportunity for developing unique microbial-based strategies for the treatment of stress-related disorders. In summary, there is growing interest in the connection between behavior in dogs and their diets, gut health and microbiome status. “While I recommend working with a behavioral trainer on issues of aggression and anxiety, we have seen many cases of improved behavior after the rebalancing the gut microbiome,” says microbial ecologist and Animal Biome founder, Holly Ganz, PhD. “I am excited and encouraged by the current research into the relationship between the gut microbiome and behavior, and am optimistic that manipulations of the microbiome through diet and fecal transplants may one day help manage anxiety or aggression in companion animals.”

From the NASC Scrutinize product claims when choosing supplements for your dog or cat By Bill Bookout

When shopping for health and nutritional supplements for your dog or cat, it’s very important to pay close attention to product claims on packaging and marketing materials. Marketers know they have very little time to capture your attention and compel you to buy — maybe a minute or two if you’re comparing products online, and mere seconds at the store shelf. The words they use can make or break the sale. Unfortunately, some brands take a “say anything” approach to selling that misleads consumers and casts a negative shadow on the entire supplement industry. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine regulates animal health and nutritional supplements, and follows the law established in the Federal Food Drug & Cosmetic Act regarding product claims, in order to protect consumers and animals. The good news is that most pet supplement suppliers understand and follow these rules and are careful to make credible claims allowable by law. Many of these suppliers are members of the National Animal Supplement Council and have access to succinct labeling guidance to help them follow the law and avoid making errant or egregious claims. Animal parents should keep a careful eye out for suppliers that disregard the rules for product claims. They are fairly

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easy to spot when you know what to look for: Words that state or imply the product will treat, prevent, cure or mitigate a disease. Example: “Aids against UTIs and bladder infections” Use of any disease name or reference to a disease. Example: “Fights gingivitis and periodontal disease” Any stated or implied comparison to, or replacement for, pharmaceuticals. Example: “Reduces the need for prescription pain medication”

Allowable or “good” health product claims are typically simple and concise. They communicate that the product is helping support the normal structure and function of your dog or cat’s body rather than trying to correct an abnormal condition or disease. And perhaps most importantly, allowable claims don’t rely on absolutes or language that overpromises outcomes. Allowable product claims include: • “Contains ingredients to support a healthy urinary tract” • “Promotes normal periodontal health” • “Maintains healthy liver function”

Any reference to a chronic condition. Example: “Protects against chronic pain and inflammation” Disease names disguised as product names. Example: “Arthri-Stop” Keep in mind that product and brand marketing are an extension of the label, and are therefore subject to the same rules. Apply the same cautious scrutiny when visiting a product website as you would when looking at the product package. This also applies to internet advertising, trade show materials, social media posts, blogs, e-newsletters and YouTube channels, as well as more traditional advertising like radio, TV and print ads.

• “Supports a healthy immune response” Supplements are not magic bullets. If a claim sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Selecting products with the NASC Quality Seal will help ensure you are buying from suppliers that responsibly produce and market their products within the bounds of the law, rather than preying on consumer vulnerabilities in the name of profit. Bill Bookout is president and founder of the National Animal Supplement Council. He has more than 30 years’ experience in the animal health industry and holds a bachelor’s degree in physical sciences from the University of Wyoming, and a master’s degree from the Pepperdine University Presidents and Key Executives MBA program.

CANINE BEHAVIOR

DO ES YOUR DOG HAVE

separation anxiety? By Moira Hechenleitner, DVM, CSAT

Separation anxiety is common in canines, but don’t despair. Follow these four important steps to a calmer, more relaxed dog. Separation anxiety in dogs is both heartbreaking and challenging. Knowing that your dog is so stressed by being left alone that he’ll cry all day, destroy furnishings, or scratch the door to pieces, is hard to bear. However, separation anxiety is a common issue, and the good news is that there are ways to overcome it and help you dog feel calmer and happier when you have to leave him at home on his own.

4 STEPS TO SOLVING SEPARATION ANXIETY IN YOUR DOG Make sure it’s separation anxiety You might think your dog has separation anxiety because your neighbors told you he barks throughout the day while you are out. Or perhaps you came home to find some of your furniture destroyed, or puddles of urine on the floor. While separation anxiety could be the reason behind these issues, other situations might be triggering them.

Observe his body language This is why observing your dog while alone is a must. It will allow you to see his body language when he’s on his own, and what leads to the appearance of these signs. Setting a

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“DID I CAUSE IT?”

Separation anxiety doesn’t have a precisely-known cause. Research has found a high correlation between several anxiety-driven conditions, such as noise sensitivity and generalized anxiety, which leads us to think there could be a genetic predisposition for the syndrome. This, in conjunction with certain environmental factors, such as a traumatic event, could trigger the onset of separation anxiety. As your dog’s guardian, you might be blaming yourself for causing his separation anxiety. Did you spoil him too much, or give him too much attention? Maybe you shouldn’t be letting him sleep with you? Truthfully, you likely aren’t the cause, and changing the interactions between you won’t solve the separation anxiety once it has started — in fact, it could make it even worse by adding more stress to the situation.

device to record him while you leave the house for ten minutes, or using an online camera so you can see what’s going on via your phone, are options for accomplishing this. A dog who is anxious about being alone will show body language that suggests distress — e.g. pacing, shaking, whining, barking, panting, etc. — and once the signs start, they won’t stop until you’re back.

Rule out other issues Beside this assessment, you will also have to rule out any other issues. Destroying objects can be caused by boredom, for example, while eliminating in inappropriate spots can mean a lack of housetraining. Periodic barking can be caused by outside stimuli. Dogs can also have confinement issues (if left in restricted areas), noise sensitivities, or physical health issues that cause stress. In other words, there are many reasons why a dog could be displaying these signs. Taking your dog to the vet to make sure he’s healthy is an important first step. Once physical problems are ruled out, consult with a behavior consultant who can compile a history of your dog’s behaviors, complement what you found during your dog’s “alone time assessment”, and help you determine what is really going on. Once you know for sure what the problem is, you can start helping your dog feel better.

Consider medications and/or holistic therapies Once you know your dog has separation anxiety, you’ll need to address three main aspects in order to help him. The first is to consider the potential need for medication or natural supplements to help him calm down.

Conventional meds While conventional medication should be a last resort, some dogs do benefit from it while you work on the other aspects of alleviating separation anxiety. There’s a high correlation among different anxietydriven conditions, which suggests a chemical imbalance may exist in dogs who suffer from one or more of these issues. Correcting this imbalance with the right medication can help these dogs cope with life, and respond better to the behavior modification plan (more on this later).

Alternative therapies Keep in mind that natural supplements, herbs or homeopathy can also be very effective at relieving your dog’s anxiety at being left alone. Consult with a holistic or integrative veterinarian, who is also knowledgeable about behavior medicine, to find the right solution for your dog.

Manage your absences during the training process If you have a dog with separation anxiety, you are probably already doing whatever you can not to leave him alone more than necessary. But you’ll need to go a step further by managing all of your absences for a while. Being creative and organized can help you achieve this more easily than you think, even if you have busy life. It doesn’t mean you have to be with your dog 24/7. But it does mean he’ll have to be with another person at all times, whether in your home, or someplace else where he feels comfortable. Some solutions include:

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4 Taking him to a trusted dog daycare

4Hiring a pet sitter 4 Enlisting a friend or family member who can have your dog at her home a few days a week

4 Taking your dog to work with you (if your workplace allows it)

4Working from home. Mixing and matching these various options will help you cover every day and hour of the week. This may seem like a lot of hassle, but there’s a reason for doing it. We can’t successfully teach a dog not to be afraid of a stimulus if we’re always exposing him to it at levels that trigger him. For example, if we want to overcome a phobia of spiders, we not only have to work on it slowly, but we have to avoid being exposed to spiders at a level we can’t handle; otherwise, we can’t desensitize (adapt) to whatever is causing our fear (in this case, spiders). It’s like trying to get the water out of a sinking boat without first fixing the hole in the bottom —

we can try all we want but the boat will eventually sink.

Engage your dog in a behavior modification program It’s important to engage the services of a dog trainer or canine behaviorist who will help you develop a behavior modification program. This program will be based on a desensitization protocol, and designed to guide and coach you through daily training sessions. These sessions seek to desensitize your dog to your departure and absence, and include several steps to help him adjust to your exit in a relaxed manner. The trainer or behaviorist will give you the guidance, support and coaching you need during this process to maximize your chances of success. All this can be done from the comfort of your own home. In fact, a remote approach on the part of the trainer or behaviorist works best when dealing with separation anxiety because it allows him/her to make a more accurate real-life assessment of the problem, and thereby develop a more realistic training scenario.

DEFI N I N G

SEPARATION ANXIETY Separation anxiety is defined as a syndrome or group of signs associated with distress that a dog displays only when left at home alone. Left unaddressed, a dog showing these signs within this context won’t recover until someone returns home.

Signs of separation anxiety can range from inappropriate elimination and vocalizations such as whining, barking or howling, to destructive behavior and attempts to escape. Every dog is different, so yours might display one or more of these behaviors. Once separation anxiety has been triggered, the chances of it resolving on its own are low. That’s why setting up the right approach to the problem will make a world of difference to the outcome.

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MODALITY HIGHLIGHT

How

Ozone being drawn into a syringe (left), which is then connected to a catheter for treatment.

OZONE THERAPY D gs Cats

HELPS DOGS AND CATS

By Mark Newkirk, VMD

Innovative, effective and safe, ozone therapy is being used in veterinary medicine for everything from ear infections to cancer. Ozone therapy might sound like something new, but it has been around for over a century, at least when it comes to human healthcare. More recently, however, it was also introduced to the veterinary world, where it’s being successfully used to help treat a range of conditions in dogs and cats. In this article, I’ll discuss what ozone therapy is, and how it works, and look at how it can be applied in companion animals.

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OZONE THERAPY 101 This unique modality has been proven effective for treating viruses, fungi and bacteria, as well as inflammation and damaged tissues, and general health issues. Ozone therapy and hyperbaric treatments bring easily soluble oxygen to affected areas of the body — for example, you may have read about NFL players using these therapies to heal their injuries faster. To create ozone, pure medical grade oxygen is flowed through a glass tube, where a low voltage electrical current is applied. (Ordinary air cannot be used because it’s 20% nitrogen.) This briefly splits the oxygen molecule (O2), creating O1 atoms. These atoms form triplets — O3 or ozone. Once in the body, O3 molecules break back down into O2 and O1, both of which offer a variety of

healing effects. Ozone is very unstable and lasts about 30 minutes, so it must be made fresh every time; it cannot be stored and used later.

OZONE THERAPY IS SAFE AND ACTS IN SEVERAL WAYS • It decreases inflammation. • It activates the immune system by stimulating cytokine production. Cytokines such as interleukin and interferons create positive immune stimulation. •O zone inactivates bacteria, fungi, viruses and yeast. Healthy cells are surrounded by an enzyme coating, which ozone does not penetrate. But bacteria and viruses have no such coating, thus the O1 molecule penetrates and kills the invaders. Consider chronic otitis (ear infections),

which often have multiple bacteria, yeast and sometimes fungus — the efficacy of ozone therapy in these cases is amazing.

HOW IS OZONE ADMINISTERED? There are multiple ways to use ozone in both humans and animals, making it easy to add to traditional therapies, or for use in acute or chronic cases. Here are just some examples: 1. Intravenous fluids can be ozonated and run into the body intravenously. This method can be used for Lyme disease, septicemia, liver, kidney infections and more. 2. Ozone may be percolated through olive oil and used in an incubator as an inhalant. This is great for upper and lower respiratory infections. (Ozone gas cannot be used directly for inhalation as it is extremely drying and irritating.) 3. Ozone may be injected into the joints for infections or used in prolotherapy for tendons and ligaments. 4. Ozonated olive oil (or other oils) can be used topically for wounds — and even for the eyes. 5. Ozone may be used as a urinary insufflation for chronic urinary infections. 6. It may be infused rectally for a variety of gastrointestinal issues, and for GI tumors!

7. It can be injected directly into a tumor. 8. Injecting ozone directly into the bloodstream as a gas is controversial, but I personally know physicians and veterinarians who do it. Ozone dissolves so quickly into O1 and O2 that no gas emboli are formed.

OZONE THERAPY IN ACTION People often report that they see increased energy in their companion animals following an ozone therapy treatment. At my practice, we often make ozone water for clients to take home so they can soak their animals’ infected feet with it, and/or have their dogs or cats drink it. We routinely flush ears with ozonated saline, and I send the animal home with ozonated olive oil to be put in the ears as a follow-up. Ozonated olive oil also greatly helps cats with severe stomatitis, and dogs with chronic peridontitis. And ozone therapy is almost always used in my practice for cancer (see sidebar top right). The downside of ozone therapy is that not many veterinarians offer it yet, nor is it “approved” by the FDA for medical use. Nevertheless, I have seen it help many animals that are severely ill and/or have been given no other hope, so perhaps this will change. Ozone therapy gives the veterinarian an opportunity to use something very natural and sustainable, that can reduce and possibly prevent the overuse of antibiotics and drugs. To search for a veterinarian trained in ozone therapy, visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association website at ahvma.org.

How ozone therapy can help treat cancer

Ozone therapy gives us two ways to help kill cancer, and with no side effects! he O atoms that come from the 1. Tbreakdown of ozone in the body 1

are free radicals. Free radicals

are toxic to cells although normal cells have antioxidants that can neutralize them. Cancer cells do not, so the O1 free radicals act like little bullets and “shoot” the malignant cells. dditionally, cancer loves low 2. Aoxygen environments. The O

molecules flush the area with oxygen, making the cancer's local environment less favorable. At the same time, O2 nourishes the normal cells and helps damaged cells heal.

Contraindications for

ozone therapy

Ozone therapy should be used with caution in the following situations: 1. Pregnancy 2. After recent internal bleeding 3. Hyperthyroidism 4. Thrombocytopenia 5. Severe cramping or spasms Animal Wellness

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

WHEN YOUR DOGS DON’T

get along If you have two or more dogs, chances are they’ve made friends with each other…but what if they haven’t? Find out why they aren’t getting along, and how to resolve the conflict.

By Christine Caplan, CVT

You reach out to pet your husky, and your terrier mix starts growling. Another time, you put down their food bowls, and one dog suddenly snaps at the other. What’s going on? A lot of people have multi-dog households these days, and while many of these canines become bosom buddies, there are times and situations when problems can arise, causing stress and even aggression between the dogs. Let’s look more closely at why your dogs don’t seem to be getting along, and what the solutions are.

they are typically ‘redirecting’ on each other — perhaps when the doorbell rings, for instance.” Redirected aggression is “lashing out”, although it’s not always directly tied to frustration or anger. For some dogs, an excited state of any kind seems to flip over into aggression. Here are some common causes of friction among dogs:

COMMON REASONS FOR CANINE CONFLICTS

• “Scarce resources and feeding time can cause aggression,” says Dr. Houpt. “Feed the dogs separately and always pick up the bowls. Additionally, they should never have treats unless they’re apart. Toys can also be a cause of aggression.”

If your dogs aren’t getting on, you first need to determine what’s triggering them. “Stress can be a problem,” says veterinarian Dr. Katherine Houpt. “When dogs attack each other, as an example,

• Adopting a new dog or puppy can upset your pack’s pecking order, and it’ll take some time for things to decompress as the newcomer settles

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in. Bonding between dogs doesn’t happen overnight, and the first few months are going to be challenging. • P aying attention to one dog over another is a common cause of “jealousy”. When I had three dogs, I quickly learned that this trigger would set off our oldest dog. When my husband and I paid “too much attention” to the rest of the pack, he would growl quite loudly, at no one in particular. • Confined spaces and narrow hallways can be a problem, states Dr. Houpt. Small spaces can cause excitement, which leads to redirected aggression. The bed and couch also fall into this category. “The couch is the worst place,” says Dr. Houpt. The couch is certainly an issue for our own dogs. They think they’re “large breeds” when they’re on the couch, and it becomes a

resource they decide to guard when we’re enjoying time together after dinner. • Is their environment an issue? Are your dogs getting enough enrichment, or are they bored? • Pain or illness can cause a dog to become snappy or withdrawn, or show other signs of fear or aggression. • Female dogs are more often involved in fights than males, according to a scientific report published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

DEFUSING TENSION BETWEEN YOUR DOGS If you notice your dogs are being unfriendly with one

another, for any reason, don’t just let them “figure it out”. The problem could escalate out of control and cause even worse issues. Try the following solutions as soon as you notice any signs of stress between your dogs, including growling, snapping, aggressive body language, etc.

Make sure they’re getting enough exercise: For our own pack of two, this may be the most important way to keep peace throughout the day. A tired dog is a good dog. Adequate exercise means fewer energy bursts that need to be managed.

Manage behavior with tools: Use management tools such as crates and baby gates to maintain order while you modify your dogs’ behavior through positive training. We use baby gates to divide our two dogs

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What about

dogs and cats?

Let’s just say that the relationship between dogs and cats is pretty simple — much less complicated, that is, than relationships between dogs, and certainly those between cats. If you’re adopting a dog into a feline household, ask the shelter or rescue staff if they know which resident dogs are familiar with cats, and will get along with them without aggressively chasing them. This compatibility is sometimes tested in the shelter setting before dogs are adopted out. One test is to place the cat in a carrier and safely introduce the dog and cat this way. “If the dog spends most of his time staring at the cat then you’re going to have an issue,” says Dr. Houpt. Even after you’ve established a safe situation for your dog and cat at home, you’ll want to consider management tools. Some experts recommend a cat tree so your kitty can retreat to a high spot out of the dog’s reach, if she needs to. Interestingly, dogs will react to the front of a cat differently than the back! For example, the front of a cat will be more intimidating if her paw is up and ready to swipe. Always watch the behavior of both the dog and cat when they’re together, and consult a veterinary behaviorist promptly if any signs of aggression arise.

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when they’re chewing bones or enjoying a stuffed Kong.

high quality diet and talk to a holistic or integrative vet to determine if any supplements might be needed.

Brush up on training: Practice training with your dogs to make sure they understand and will respond to every cue you give them. Be sure to use only positive gentle training techniques, and give lots of praise and rewards. Training also gives your dogs some extra mental stimulation and can help alleviate boredom.

Visit the vet: If one of your dogs suddenly starts snapping or growling at the others (or at you) for no apparent reason, it could mean he’s not feeling well, or is experiencing pain, and is telling everyone to leave him alone. Take him to the veterinarian for a checkup.

Consult a veterinary behaviorist or trainer: I had a trainer come to our house and observe certain behaviors between our dogs to help us figure out what was “appropriate”, and where we needed more management. Contacting an expert when you first start to see triggers and aggression is best. “I’m typically contacted when one of the animals is being injured by the other and the owner can’t live with it

Review your dogs’ diet: Nutritional deficiencies or an imbalanced microbiome can cause behavioral problems in dogs, including aggression (for more on this topic, turn to page 14). Make sure your dogs are eating a

anymore,” says Dr. Houpt. “It’s easier to solve problems earlier rather than later.” To find a veterinary behaviorist, visit dacvb.org. I strongly believe dogs need other dogs in their lives. Our own two live together harmoniously most of the time, but this is because we watch for any possible triggers and prevent unwanted behaviors from happening in the first place. The key is to pay attention and observe the dynamics and behaviors between your dogs. If your canine companions get along without any problems, consider yourself lucky! If they don’t, reach out to a professional to learn the cause and get the assistance you need.

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HERBS FOR HEALING

6 herbs to relieve anxiety TOP

IN CATS

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By Greg Tilford

Thanks to their sensitive natures, cats are more prone to stress and anxiety than many other animals. From California poppy to valerian, these herbs help calm anxious kitties.

Anyone who has lived with a cat is aware that felines are uniquely sensitive creatures. They seem much more keenly tuned into their environments than we or even our dogs are. The smallest change in a cat’s routine — how the furniture has been rearranged, or who just dropped by for dinner — can result in anxiety. And unlike virtually any other animal, Kitty prefers to operate under her terms only, which raises the anxiety bar even higher, especially when her expectations don’t pan out. Luckily, there are many ways to calm anxiety in cats — including the six herbs outlined in this article.

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DIFFERENT HERBS FOR DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES Calmative herbs can be generally described as those that help relieve anxiety and bring about a calmer, more relaxed state of being. However, it’s important to realize that no two calmative herbs are entirely alike. Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis): Thanks to the antispasmodic and carminitive activities of its saponin constituents, valerian root is especially well-suited to cases where high anxiety manifests in vomiting. Cats are well

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known for holding tension in the gut, and for this, ten to 20 drops of a glycerin-based valerian tincture piped directly into the mouth will usually bring fast relief.

Why are cats so prone to

ANXIETY AND STRESS?

To find answers to that question, I turned to Terri Grow, longtime leading cat expert and founder of Wise Feline. “Felis Silvestris Catus has changed little from her ancestors: anatomically, behaviorally or metabolically,” Terri says. “Their stealth and highly efficient predator physiology helps protect them from danger and starvation in the wild, but can also set them up for stress and anxiety, even fear in a household setting. Even their hearing, which allows them to track the ultrasonic sounds of rodents and other small prey, can go into overload or cause them to perceive a range of noises in the home environment, such as electronics or neighboring animals, as potential threats.”

Catnip (Nepeta cataria): If the cat does not tolerate valerian, a similar dose of catnip glycerin tincture may do the trick. Don’t worry about Kitty getting looped-out the way he does with his catnip mouse — the euphoric effects of catnip (which are good in their own right) only occur when aromatic nepetalactones from the herb activate the cat’s accessory olfactory system inside her nose. When ingested, catnip does not induce euphoria, but serves as a general calming agent that also helps relieve intestinal gas and bloating, the byproducts of a nervous gut.

Lemon balm (Melissa officianlis): This herb offers similar activities in the gut, and will induce a subtle calming effect. Science suggests lemon balm may also help slow an overactive thyroid — a problem suffered by many cats. In theory, the herb inhibits thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH) uptake at TSH receptors. However, if you suspect your cat may have thyroid disease, a trip to the veterinarian is warranted, as hyperthyroidism can lead to serious, even life-threatening health problems. Lemon balm may also interfere with certain thyroid drugs.

3 Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata): The chemicals in passionflower have calming, sleep-inducing, and muscle spasm-relieving effects, but I find it’s best for helping ease the mind during bouts of jealousy, separation anxiety, Animal Wellness

fear or grieving. Give ten drops of an alcohol-free tincture, by mouth, up to twice daily.

4 Start by considering your cat’s nutrition At the core of whether Kitty can cope with stress is good nutrition. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that high quality meat protein, along with the correct balance of amino acids and fats, are critical to a healthy properlyfunctioning brain. If a cat is not getting the nutritional quality and diversity she needs, the stage is already set for emotional and behavioral imbalances that cannot be remedied by herbs, homeopathy or anything else. Improvements in the diet are often all that is needed to bring even the most chronically wigged-out cat down from the ceiling. But when occasional bouts of acute anxiety occur (think new kitten or a teenager party), then it’s time to turn to the herbs in this article for taking the nervous edge off.

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Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia): This is the first herb I turn to for “nervous jitteriness”; situations in which an animal is literally trembling with anxiety, or seems hypersensitive to touch — such as when you touch your cat’s back and her skin crawls, or she jumps. Skullcap is also frequently used as a direct replacement for valerian, which tends to heat up certain individuals. Some of the veterinarians I work with use skullcap to help reduce the intensity and frequency of epileptic seizures. There are many species of skullcap, and some have quite different chemistries, so be sure the product or plant you are using is Scutellaria laterifolia, which is the primary commercial species in North America. California poppy (Eschscholzia californica): This is among the first herbs to consider when your cat’s anxiety is associated with pain. Unlike whiny humans who deal with pain by popping analgesic or anti-inflammatory pain pills, cats cope with their aches and pains by curling up and going to sleep. Enter California poppy. Unlike its Asian cousin the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), the California poppy does not contain any opiates,

5 but it does have some very mild opiate-like properties that make it useful for safely and reliably bringing comfort to a pain-agitated feline. Look for an alcohol-free tincture formula made from the entire flowering plant. Use in small frequent doses for the best effects. For Kitty, this equates to 0.25 ml of the tincture, once every two hours until a restful state is established. Before giving anything new to your cat, including herbs, it’s always a good idea to schedule a veterinary check-up to make sure her stress and anxiety isn’t being caused by a physical problem. It’s also important to consider how her diet may be contributing to her anxiety (see sidebar at left). Once any medical and nutritional issues have been addressed, reach for the above herbs (with the help of a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about herbs) and see how effective they can be for calming your stressed-out kitty!

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NEWSWORTHY

STUDY REVEALS

THAT DOGS’ NOSES CAN

DETECT HEAT Dogs are known for their keen sense of smell. But scientists have discovered their noses also have the ability to detect weak thermal radiation. Around the world, dogs are celebrated for their ability to sniff out everything from cancer to meteorites. But the capabilities of canine noses don’t end with their sense of smell. A team of scientists at Lund University (Sweden) and Eötvös Loránd University (Hungary), recently conducted a study to test their hypothesis that dogs’ noses are particularly sensitive to radiating heat — and the findings are fascinating! As far as we know, only a few animals can sense this type of heat, including black fire beetles, vampire bats, and certain species of snake. In most cases, this unique skill is used to hunt prey — which may explain why dogs also have the ability. The researchers suspect our canine companions inherited it from their gray wolf cousins, who likely use their noses to help them find warm bodies when hunting for food.

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Like other mammals able to detect heat, dogs have smooth, naked skin (called the rhinarium) on the tips of their noses. This skin is moist, cold, and covered in nerves, which is why the research team proposed that dogs might be able to detect radiating heat. To test their theory, they trained three dogs to choose between a warm (88°F or 31°C) and ambienttemperature object, each placed 5.25’ (1.6m) away. The dogs weren’t able to see or smell the difference between these objects, but after training they were all able to detect the object emitting weak thermal radiation.

It remains unknown whether dogs can detect heat from a farther distance, but the researchers hope their findings will lead to further study. “The canine heat sense has been overlooked for thousands of years,” says principal investigator, Ronald H. H. Kröger. “It is possible that other carnivorans possess a similar infrared sense, and that adds a new chapter to the story of prey-predator relationships. We hope further studies investigating the details of this newly discovered sense will receive much professional and public interest.”

The team then used functional magnetic resonance imaging to look at the brains of 13 different dogs as they sniffed two objects: one neutral and one warm. They Infrared discovered that a region imaging shows in the left somatosensory how cold the canine nose cortex — the part of is compared the nervous system to the rest connected to senses of the body, making it more such as temperature sensitive to and smell — was more radiating heat. responsive to the warm object.

nature.com/articles/s41598-020-60439-y

Gut health — Why your dog's or cat’s whole body depends on it!

Your dog's or cat’s gut health impacts much more than his digestion. Everything from his head to his toes is affected by the microbiome, and it’s up to you to nourish it! Here’s how. Inside the intestines of every human and animal lives a colony of good and bad bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This is known as the gut microbiome. An individual’s microbial makeup plays a very important role in his overall health, regulating digestive function, influencing the immune system, helping with the production of certain vitamins, and more. Given its substantial influence on the body, the microbiome is an important research focus, and promoting gut health has become a priority for many people — dog and cat parents included!

DEFINING GUT HEALTH “A healthy gut has a good balance of microorganisms that enable it to work at optimal levels to absorb nutrients and facilitate energy production, destroy bad bacteria and toxins, and support a strong, healthy immune system,” says Leasa Moltke, Nutrition and Regulatory Manager at Solid Gold Pet. “Signs that your animal’s gut is not as healthy as it could be are poor skin and coat condition, poor stool quality and decreased energy.”

AN OVERARCHING INFLUENCE As noted above, the gut microbiome has an impact on so much more than

digestion. It supports (or undermines) the skin and coat, protects the body from inflammation, and has been linked to mental and emotional health. But that’s not all! The state of your animal’s gut also influences his: • immune system • weight • sleep • energy • eyes • ears • nails and paw pads It almost goes without saying, then, that nourishing your dog's or cat’s gut is crucial to his well-being. Luckily, there are a number of easy ways to accomplish this.

HOW TO KEEP HIS GUT HEALTHY There is no magic recipe for a healthy gut, but there are a few basic steps you can take to support the delicate colony of microorganisms in your animal’s digestive tract:

1. Improve his diet — “A healthy diet full of high quality proteins and fats, complex carbohydrates, and indigestible fibers — prebiotics — is vital for gut health,” says Leasa. “These diets feed the good bacteria in our pets’ guts, which in turn are stronger and more able to fight off bad bacteria and toxins. Poor diets high in sugars and low in prebiotics can actually feed bad bacteria and starve

good bacteria, causing an imbalance which can lead to a host of issues.”

2. Exercise — Want to improve your animal’s gut health? Take him on regular walks! Exercise has been shown to increase the diversity of microbiota in the gut,1 which may reduce the risk of disease.

3. Reduce stress — A study2 published in 2014 suggests that even short-term exposure to stressors can disrupt the microbiome in animals. Do your best to remove stressors — such as loneliness, loud noises and frequent, disruptive changes — from your dog's or cat’s life.

4. Limit use of unnecessary antibiotics — These drugs are prescribed to kill harmful bacteria but, unfortunately, they also wipe out beneficial strains. Ask your vet about natural antibiotic alternatives to see if they’re an option. Nourishing your dog's or cat’s microbiome isn’t just about his gut — it’s about his health, happiness and longevity. Taking steps to nourish it will help ensure he’s the best version of himself…right down to the bacteria in his intestines! ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25021423 ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4105248/

1 2

To learn more about how your dog or cat is influenced by gut health, see the poster insert in this issue, courtesy of Solid Gold Pet. Animal Wellness

HEALTH ALERT

WAYS

TO CARE FOR YOUR DOG OR CAT DURING THE

D gs Cats The COVID-19 pandemic has turned all our lives upside down. Here are some tips to help ensure your dog or cat stays safe and healthy during this challenging time.

PANDEMIC By Ann Brightman

The COVID-19 pandemic took most us by surprise. In a matter of a few short weeks this spring, thousands of businesses closed and people were told to stay home in an attempt to slow the relentless spread of this devastating virus. While you may be adapting to this “new normal” by now, don’t forget to continue keeping your dog or cat’s health, safety and comfort in mind, as well as your own. This checklist will keep you on the right track.

1. If you haven’t already, call your veterinarian to find out what their protocols are during this time of physical distancing. Has the clinic shortened its hours or closed its doors to walk-in traffic? What are the arrangements if your animal gets injured or sick? Finding all this out ahead of time will make things a lot easier if something crops up and your dog or cat needs prompt attention. Telemedicine may also

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be an option in some cases — to find out more, turn to page 60.

food and other supplies and either pick them up or have them delivered.

2. In the meantime, continue your dog or cat’s regular health regime as best you can with a quality diet and adequate exercise (more on this below). Try to keep to his regular routine and be alert for any changes in his health or wellbeing that might warrant a call to the vet.

4. There are conflicting reports as to whether or not dogs or cats can contract COVID-19 from humans (we still have a lot to learn about this virus). For the time being, it’s best to err on the side of caution and arrange for a family member, friend or neighbor to take care of your animal if by chance you get sick.

3. Keep a two-week supply of pet food on hand, along with a 30-day supply of any medications or supplements your dog or cat is taking. Although many pet food stores have temporarily closed their doors to walk-in traffic, you can order

5. The same applies if you have to be hospitalized. Making arrangements for your dog or cat’s care ahead of time will at least give you the peace of mind of knowing he’ll be looked after if you’re out of commission for a while. Make sure your emergency caregiver has all the information she needs to care for your animal — e.g. what and when to feed him, what supplements

or medications he requires, what his exercise needs are, where to order supplies, which veterinarian to call in the event of an emergency, etc. 6. We all know about the importance of washing your hands. This is good hygiene practice at any time, but remembering to wash your hands before and after petting, grooming or feeding your dog or cat covers even more bases. 7. This is a stressful time for everyone — including your dog or cat, who will be picking up on your anxiety and possibly feeling upset by changes in his routine. Be sure to fit in lots of quality time with your animal. This will be easy to do if you’re spending a lot more time at home right now.

Even if you’re a frontline worker, try to give your dog or cat some extra love and attention when you are home. It’ll be good for both of you! 8. Get outside! Depending on where you live, you’ll still be able to go outdoors to get some fresh air and exercise — in fact this is encouraged, as long as you maintain at least 6’ between you and other people outside your immediate household. Even in regions with “shelter in place” orders, you are usually still allowed to take your dog for a walk. Many dog parks have closed for the duration, but you can turn your own backyard into a fun activity center for your canine companion (see page 50). If you have a cat, you can try taking him out on a harness (under constant supervision) or invest in a cat enclosure if you have the funds to

spare. Failing that, an open window with a nearby bird feeder will keep Kitty entertained for hours! Most of us alive today have never experienced a situation like this before. It’s scary and disorienting, and no one knows when life might go back to normal. Focusing on your dog or cat can help ground you and give you purpose — and the unconditional love you receive in return will do wonders for your mental and emotional health.

Animal Wellness

EATING WELL

MUSHROOMS YOU CAN SHARE WITH YOUR DOG

By Dr. Suzi Beber, honouris causa

For a powerhouse of healing nutrition, mushrooms can’t be beat. Find out which varieties are good for your dog, and try the recipes! Mushrooms are a favorite delicacy for many people, but did you know they’re nutririous as well as delicious? Better still, you can share their unique flavors and health benefits with your dog. Let’s take a look at seven different mushrooms and how they can be used to enhance your canine companion’s well-being, along with some tasty recipes you’ll want to sample yourself! Button mushrooms are the most cultivated edible mushrooms in the world. Not everyone knows that button mushrooms turn into Crimini mushrooms, and Criminis turn into Portobellos. It’s all part of their growth cycle; just a few days’ difference produces these three popular mushroom varieties.

Animal Wellness

They’re packed with naturallyoccurring antioxidants, including all the B vitamins (except B12), along with copper, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. One 3oz serving of these “common” mushrooms contains 5mg of L-ergoothioneine, an antioxidant that isn’t destroyed by cooking. A number of years ago, Dr. Jean-Michel Savoie and his team from the Institut National de la Recherche Agrinomique in France, discovered that white button mushrooms have as much, if not more, free radical-scavenging power as the more popular medicinal mushrooms. Not only do button mushrooms support the lungs, spleen and intestines; they are also used to help treat diarrhea, mucous discharge and vomiting.

Shiitake mushrooms are a symbol of longevity in Asia and considered one of the top five medicinal mushrooms. They have been used medicinally in China for over 6,000 years, are a rich source of protein, and also contain vitamins A, B6 and C, along with copper, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, pantothenic acid, potassium, riboflavin, selenium, thiamin, zinc and dietary

Button mushrooms

fiber. Shiitake mushrooms contain more than 50 enzymes, including pepsin, which aids digestion. Shiitake is truly medicine in a mushroom. They contain a natural source of interferon, a protein that appears to induce an immune response against cancer and viral diseases. Shiitake mushrooms contain a bioactive compound called eritadenine, which helps decrease fat and cholesterol in the blood, while their germanium supports cellular oxygenation and further supports the immune response. Beta-glucan, a form of natural sugar with powerful immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties is also found in Shiitake mushrooms. Research dating back to the 1940s has demonstrated that the beta-glucan found in Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms

mushrooms helps slow down tumor growth and decreases the side effects of cancer treatments like chemotherapy. These mushrooms are a source of lentian, technically classified as a polysaccharide but often referred to as a branched betaglucan. Lentian supports the immune system, helping to fight infection and disease. Shiitake mushrooms also contain a high concentration of the antioxidant L-ergothioneine. It is easy to grow your own Shiitake mushrooms. One log will produce mushrooms for your whole family, for

four years. Organic mushroom growing kits are readily available. Reishi mushrooms have 2,000 known species. The most important are identified by color – black, blue, white, yellow, purple, red. These are the ones most closely studied, and Red Reishi is the most commonly cultivated. Also called “Grass of Heaven”, Reishi is used as a tonic to help increase energy, improve digestion, regulate the immune system and support the cardiovascular system. It is known to help relieve the symptoms of allergies. Reishi is rich in polysaccharides, polypeptides, 16 types of amino acid, coumarin, triterpene, organic acids and microelements. When Reishi is given as a supplement during chemotherapy or radiation, it may help reduce side effects such as fatigue, loss of appetite, bone marrow suppression, and risk of infection. Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre has used Reishi in the treatment of leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. In traditional East Asian medicine, 1.5g to 9g (1 level teaspoon equals approximately 2.75g) of dried Reishi mushrooms are recommended for humans each day, prepared as a tea. The daily amount is divided between morning and evening. You can do the same for your dog. Small dogs can be given 1g of the fruiting body of Reishi, medium-sized dogs 2g, and large dogs 3g, divided between two meals. Making Reishi tea is simple. Simply bring filtered water and dried Reishi mushrooms or powder to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. The tea will be quite strong in 20 to 30 minutes, and you can recycle the “grounds” as long as there is color in the tea. Simply add some tea to your dog’s meals; if you drink some yourself, make sure

Reishi mushrooms

you filter it as it can be quite gritty. The tea can be refrigerated for two days; shake before using. It can also be frozen in ice cube trays. Maitake mushrooms have been used medicinally in China and Japan for 3,000 years. This species is often referred to as the “King of Mushrooms”. They have an incredible range of healing powers and have been referred to as an anti-cancer agent. They also help regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol. The chemical structure of Maitake’s polysaccharide compound is slightly different from the beta-glucans found in other medicinal mushrooms. Maitake’s D-fraction, the most active form of beta-glucan, has demonstrated strong tumor-suppressant abilities in clinical studies, and also boosts immunity to fight infections more effectively. Making Maitake tea is just like making Reishi tea, except 2g to 4g of dried mushrooms are recommended for humans each day. Small dogs can have

Maitake mushrooms

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Chaga mushrooms

0.5g a day, while medium-sized dogs can have 1g, and large dogs 2g. When shopping for Maitake mushrooms, look for Grifola frondosa, which are considered the most potent because of their D-fraction content. Like Shiitake mushrooms, you can also grow your own Maitakes! Chaga, also known as Inonotus obliquus, is a polyphore fungus that has grown significantly in popularity. Its inner core has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Ground into a fine powder and prepared as a tea, it helps boost immunity and overall health. Chaga can be found in colder climates and is slow-growing. It has to be at least three to five years of age before it contains sufficient

Shimeji mushrooms

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medicinal value. When the host tree dies, the Chaga dies too. Chaga cannot be cultivated domestically like other mushrooms, so we need to protect and harvest it responsibly. Chaga contains 215 phytochemicals, 29 polysaccharide derivatives, betulin and betulinic acid (also called trierpenes), phytosterols, beta-D-glucans, polyphenols, superoxide dismutase and micronutrients. Studies have shown that Chaga extract can impact the immune system by reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria and viruses, and even slowing the growth of certain cancers. Chaga can slow down the immune system as well as boost it, great news for those who have dogs with allergies or arthritis. Chaga is easy to prepare as a tea and is also available to dogs as an extract and tincture. Chaga extract can be sprinkled on food at 1/8 teaspoon per 22lbs (10 kgs) of body weight. Shimeji is a really cool little mushroom that grows in clusters. Also known as “White Beech Mushroom” and the “Seafood Mushroom”, it’s showing potential in a number of areas, and is easy to prepare as a topper for your dog’s food. Shimeji is a cultivated mushroom rich in polysaccharides and ergosterol steroids, along with B vitamins, biotin, copper, provitamin D2, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin and zinc. One of the interesting things about this little mushroom is that is has antimicrobial and anti-parasitic properties, thanks to protease enzymes that have a nematicidal effect. They are also rich in glycoprotein, marmorin, beta-glucan, hypziziprenol and hypsin,

compounds that may inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. A Japanese study has demonstrated that Shimeji protects the heart too. Turkey Tail mushrooms, also known as Coriolus Versicolor, Trametes Versicolor, “Yun Zhi” and “Kawaratake” may turn out to be the perfect adjunct to regular cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, not only for us, but for our dogs too. They have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years.

Turkey Tail mushrooms

Turkey Tail is a polypore fungus that grows on dead logs around the world. It’s packed with antioxidants, including phenols and flavonoids, and even quercetin, which help reduce inflammation. Their Krestin (PSK) and polysaccharide peptide (PSP) content represent the two types of polysaccharopeptides that promote an immune response by both activating and inhibiting certain types of immune cells. Turkey Tail mushrooms have also been reported to have antibacterial properties, and may improve insulin resistance. Prepare Turkey Tail tea the same as Shiitake mushroom tea, and add some grated ginger and a pinch of turmeric for a terrific pick-me-up for you and your dog! See recipes on page 40.

Recipes

Simple bone broth

INGREDIENTS

1 to 2 pounds of chicken or turkey bones or 2 large beef marrow bones or other bones containing marrow 1 cup mushrooms, e.g. Shiitake, Turkey Tail, Maitake 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or ½ lemon Filtered water Handful of fresh parsley INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to use certified organic bones for this recipe. Place the bones and vinegar in a large soup pot, Crock-Pot or Instant Pot. Cover with filtered water. Bring mixture to a boil, skimming the “particulates” that rise to the top, then turn the heat down to a simmer. Add mushrooms. Leave the bones to simmer away all day or night. Add the parsley just a few minutes before you move to the next step. Then drain the broth from the bones. Discard the bones, but keep all the meat and cartilage.

Shake and bake mushrooms

INGREDIENTS

1 cup cooked whole grain brown rice (cook 1 cup rice in 3 cups filtered water.) 3 cups filtered boiling water or 2 cups filtered boiling water and 1 cup bone broth ¼ teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon first-pressed olive oil or rice bran oil ½ cup chopped mushrooms (raw or sautéed) — Shiitake mushrooms are great for this recipe. INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F. Sauté rice in oil, until slightly brown in color. Place in a baking dish. Add mushrooms. Pour boiling water (and bone broth, if using) over rice and mushrooms. Cover and bake 45 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed. Cool and serve.

Mushroom madness

INGREDIENTS

6 whole eggs 1 to 1½ cups fresh mushrooms of your choice, e.g. Shiitake, sliced or chopped 1 cup kale, chopped ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon turmeric INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F. In oven-to-table cookware, combine all ingredients with a whisk or fork. Bake for 25 minutes or until the center of the loaf is set and the top is golden. Cool to room temperature before serving. This is the dish the whole family can enjoy.

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Mushroom medley

INGREDIENTS

1 cup beef strips 1 cup liver, e.g. beef, chicken, turkey 1 cup Shiitake mushrooms 1 cup Shiitake tea 1 cup zucchini 1 1”piece fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon sea salt 1 cup filtered water or bone broth 1 tablespoon first-pressed olive oil or rice bran oil INSTRUCTIONS

Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat and simmer gently until there is no pink in the meat. Remove from stove and cool. Serve as an addition/topping to your dog's regular meals. This recipe can also be served with rice.

Shiitake sauté

INGREDIENTS

1 cup fresh Shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped or sliced ½ teaspoon sea salt 1 tablespoon cold-pressed olive oil or rice bran oil 3 cups cooked whole brown rice or quinoa; Thai jasmine rice can also be used for this recipe (cook 1 cup rice with 3 cups filtered water) 1 pound meat protein, e.g. turkey, chicken, beef, bison, lamb INSTRUCTIONS

Heat oil in a large pan. Add mushrooms and gently cook until tender. Add rice and salt and combine well. This is a recipe the whole family can enjoy!

Shemeji mushroom sauté

INGREDIENTS

1 package Shimeji mushrooms; look for certified “non pesticide” ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon turmeric ¼ to ½ teaspoon kelp powder 1½ tablespoons first-pressed olive oil INSTRUCTIONS

Remove base from mushrooms and gently rinse them. Heat oil in a large pan. Add mushrooms and gently cook until tender, no more than five minutes. Add sea salt, turmeric and kelp and gently combine with mushrooms. Cool and serve.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Shell, @von.jakoba

BUSINESS PROFILE

IS CREATING A

BETTER PLANET, one batch of pet food at a time

Looking for a pet food company that’s committed to the health of the planet? Nature’s Logic® has changed the industry and champions environmental sustainability. Have you ever wondered if the food your give your dog or cat is sustainably produced? You’re not alone! For many of us, leading a “healthy lifestyle” reaches beyond our individual choices. We recognize that every decision has a domino effect that impacts the lives of our animals and the planet. Unfortunately, many animal parents struggle to find a food that supports these sustainability ideals. Enter Nature’s Logic® — a pet food company dedicated to the health and wellness of animals, while also striving to reduce the carbon “pawprint” of our dogs and cats. It started when founder Scott Freeman asked a pivotal question back in 2006 — is it possible to create a complete animal diet, with all the essential nutrients, from only whole foods, rather than depending on synthetics to easily and cheaply meet nutritional requirements? He discovered it was, became devoted to reshaping the industry. Nature’s Logic was born. Health and harmony form the foundation on which the company

operates. “We believe in a world where the food our pets eat and the way in which it is provided are in harmony with the principles of nature,” says CEO David Yaskulka. The Nature’s Logic line has both canine grainfree and non-GMO whole grain millet canine and feline diets. All their products avoid high-glycemic substitutes like potatoes, peas or legumes, and are high in all-natural taurine. Despite how the company has grown since its launch, the beliefs that kick-started it still resonate strongly with David. “I am proud that our diets, treats, and supplements are truly 100% natural,” he says. “We love creating pet food that people can feel good about feeding their furry family members.” Nature’s Logic is still making ripples in the industry. Their headquarters, as well as their kibble and bag manufacturing facilities, are powered by 100% renewable electricity. For every pound of pet food sold by Nature’s Logic, they purchase one kilowatt hour of renewable energy.

Their new goal is to help some of their partners also become fully powered by renewable electricity. With this strong commitment to sustainability, the company doesn’t plan on stopping their push to create a healthier planet. “We continue to explore as many ways as possible to make our carbon footprint smaller,” explains David. For example, the seafood in their latest line comes from sustainable fisheries endorsed by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). In addition, Nature’s Logic is the first company in the pet industry to roll out certified plastic-neutral bags, and they are also an active member of the Pet Sustainability Council (PSC). And, of course, health and harmony are still at the forefront of their mission. “We want to provide the most nutritious and safest products,” says David. “I firmly believe that together, we can create a better future by finding impactful, thoughtful ways to do better for our pets and the planet.” natureslogic.com Animal Wellness

COVER STORY

Jasper By Emily Watson

This adventure pup is inspiring thousands of pet parents to

#connectwithnature!

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As with most rescue dogs, Jasper’s story began when a special human being walked into a local shelter. In this particular tale, the shelter was in Grande Prairie, Alberta, and the human was Jasper’s soon-to-be-Dad, Jon. Having recently moved to the area, Jon decided to pursue his lifelong dream of adopting a dog. He began making weekly visits to the SPCA and the moment he spotted Jasper, he knew he was “the one”.

Jon and Jasper’s “love at first sight” connection quickly turned into a lasting bond.

Photos courtesy of Jon Sinclair, @sinclair_photo

Jon and Jasper’s “love at first sight” connection quickly turned into a lasting bond. The playful husky mix was only six months old when Jon brought him home, but he was incredibly wellbehaved. “The moment I really saw him shine was when I took him on a little hike,” says Jon. “He pulled me the whole way and would always stop and allow me to take in the views.” As a landscape photographer, this was something Jon truly appreciated.

The duo fell into a pleasant routine over the next few years. As Jon focused on capturing their hiking trips with his camera, Jasper ran and romped, relishing in his new chance at life in the picturesque Canadian prairies. But eventually, Jon began pointing his

lens at his happy-go-lucky pup, capturing his spirit in the foreground of those picturesque backdrops they loved so much. And to his surprise, Jasper ate it up. “Once he was in front of the camera, he became so aware and loves the spotlight,” says Jon.

At that point, Jon already had a wellestablished photography account on Instagram. He knew what worked well, and began to create a vision for what a page for Jasper would look like. He wanted to build something enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing that would inspire dog parents and photographers alike. Eventually, he brought his vision to life, launching @jaspywoof — an account that now has over 46K followers. Continued on page 44. Animal Wellness

“He has the most patience I’ve seen in a dog, so it became more enjoyable taking photos of him and showing the world our adventures,”

Continued from page 43. Jasper took well to his new role as a social media influencer, always happy to pose for his personal photographer. “He has the most patience I’ve seen in a dog, so it became more enjoyable taking photos of him and showing the world our adventures,” says Jon. Jasper stays at home when his humans are at work, but gets long evening walks to different parks around the city. The weekends are when the adventures happen, and their summers are full of road trips, camping and hiking in the Rocky Mountains. Jon started taking Jasper on bigger hiking trips when the dog was around four years old. “Once I realized how much more he could handle, we added a bit more and he thrived,” he says. “Jasper has traveled with me around western Canada all the way up to Vancouver Island, as well as the western states. Our personal favorite was Bend, Oregon. We’re hoping to one day make our way back there.”

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Despite his passion for adventure, Jasper is surprisingly snuggly. Whether he’s in a tent or on the couch, he loves to sprawl out and snooze. According to Jon, the sweet rescue is lovable and loyal, and has the ability to make anyone fall madly in love with him. Everyone except for his brother, Gus — a 14-year-old tabby cat who’d rather keep his distance. “All Jasper wants is to play with Gus, but Gus wants nothing to do with him,” says Jon. “Though I know they both like having each other around during the day when no one’s home.” As Jasper continues his happy cycle of exploring and napping, his faithful fans continue to follow him in awe. Thanks to Jon’s stunning images, Jasper has become an inspiration to dog parents around the globe, motivating them to take their own canine companions on adventures whenever the opportunity arises. “We love to promote getting out

and enjoying the outdoors,” says Jon. “It makes us all happiest when we get some mountain time in our week, and I know other people and dogs can benefit in the same way!” Jasper’s Insta-fame has opened up several doors for him and Jon. He’s been featured online in several articles, in a calendar, and in advertisements. Some of these collaborations have included working with shelters, and donating food and adoption kits — something Jon is more than happy to support. “Adopting Jasper was lifechanging,” he says. “He was a joy in my life when I needed it the most. It’s a true honor being Jasper’s person and I don’t know exactly where I would be had I not found him.” To follow Jon and Jasper on their inspiring journey, find them on Instagram at instagram.com/jaspywoof.

PRODUCT

PICKS

What we love:

The company has 22 CBD studies either completed or underway.

What we love:

Perfect for highprotein and lowcarb diets.

Look, no grains!

Many kibbles are made with grains, but not Stella & Chewy’s. Each high-protein grain-free food, such as their Raw Coated Kibble, starts with responsibly-sourced animal protein, combining pure raw nutrition with the great taste dogs go wild for. The kibble is slowly baked, and rich in Omega-3s. Made in the US, with no ingredients from China.

StellaAndChewys.com/store-locator

Backed by sound science

The pet care market is flooded with CBD products, but it’s vital to choose only those backed by solid research. Canopy Animal Health is in the process of launching the most scientifically-sound companion animal cannabidiol (CBD) products available, including both non-prescription and prescription products.

CanopyAnimalHealth.com

What we love:

Easy to use – just sprinkle into your animal’s food, mix it in and let it go to work.

What we love:

You don’t need to scoop, clean or refill your cat’s litter box for weeks!

Upgrade your litterbox Sweeten his breath

There’s nothing worse than going eye-to-eye with your fur kiddo, only to be hit by a smell that could knock out a moose! The active ingredient in Scruffy Paws Scrub and Shine Dental Powder neutralises odor-causing bacteria, supporting your dog or cat’s dental health and making sure his breath stays clean and fresh!

The popular PetSafe® ScoopFree® Self-Cleaning Litter Box is getting an upgrade. Offered in both a standard and covered option, the new models feature a sleek design in neutral grays to integrate seamlessly into modern home décor. The crystal litter provides five times better odor control than traditional litter by absorbing urine and dehydrating waste.

Store.PetSafe.net/scoopfree-self-cleaning-litter-box-second-generation

ScruffyPawsNutrition.com Animal Wellness

Why CRATE TRAINING your dog is important Find out why it’s a good idea to crate train your dog, and how to do it so she’ll be safe, happy and comfortable. By Andrea Gronwald

The thought of crating our dogs makes many of us cringe. But while a dog should never spend too much time in a crate, it’s an important tool when appropriately used. This article looks at the advantages of crate training and how to do it in a way that’s comfortable for your dog.

WHY CRATE TRAIN YOUR DOG? Chances are, at some point in his life, your dog will have to stay in a crate for a period of time — for example, when she’s at the vet’s office or groomer’s, or recovering from an injury or surgery. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, you may have to use a crate to transport her during an emergency evacuation.

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You can prepare your dog for these situations, and make them less stressful, by crate training her. Crate training also comes in handy for puppy training, in particular potty training. Sleeping in a crate at night will prevent your pup from eliminating in the house. During the day, if you cannot supervise her to prevent unwanted behaviors, the crate is a safe place to confine her for short periods. A fearful dog may benefit from a crate because it provides her with a safe place. Even confident dogs may sometimes just want to get away from it all. If your dog feels overwhelmed by rowdy kids or is stressed by visitors, she can find refuge in her crate.

4 STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL CRATE TRAINING The crate training process may take days or weeks, depending on your dog’s temperament and previous experience. Be patient and take small steps. A crate can be a helpful training tool, but limit the time your dog spends in it.

1. TEACH YOUR DOG TO GO INTO THE CRATE Sitting or standing next to the crate, toss a treat inside. If your dog immediately steps inside to get it, great! If she doesn’t, that’s okay. Entering an unknown confined space can be scary for some dogs. In this case, toss the treat closer to the entrance rather than to the back of the crate so she doesn’t have to go all the way in. If she is very nervous, make a trail of treats that leads to the crate. It is better to progress slowly than create a negative experience for your dog. As she gets more comfortable, gradually toss the treats farther inside the crate. It is a good idea to feed multiple treats in a row while your dog is inside the crate. She will learn that good things happen when she stays inside. If you give her only one treat each time, she will quickly learn to exit right after she received it. Have her come out and repeat this exercise a few times until she happily goes into the crate.

Tip:

eed your dog her meals in the crate to create a positive association. F If she readily enters the crate, you can place the bowl at the back of the crate. If she is reluctant to go all the way in, place the bowl at the entrance, and at each feeding move it a little farther back.

HOW LONG CAN MY DOG STAY IN HER CRATE? A crate is no place for a dog to spend hours at a time. Confinement in such a small space should be for short periods only. If you need to leave her home alone for longer periods and can’t allow her to roam the house freely, a long-term confinement area such as a room or exercise pen is a better option. Your dog should not be crated if she has separation anxiety and doesn’t like being left alone. A better solution is to leave her with a dog sitter.

2. TEACH HER A CUE FOR ENTERING THE CRATE Once your dog goes into the crate every time you toss a treat inside, it’s time to teach her to do it on cue. Say “crate” or “house” — or whichever word you choose — then toss a treat inside. The tossing movement will become your hand signal. If you have been rewarding her with multiple treats while she’s in the crate, she may start to stay inside voluntarily and even sit or lie down. Praise and reward her greatly for this. To get her out of the crate, say “find it” and toss a treat on the floor outside the entrance. Repeat this exercise a few times. Make sure you say the cue (e.g. “crate” or “house”) before you move your hand to toss the treat. When your dog starts to step into the crate each time you say the cue and toss the treat, it’s time to fade out the lure. Say “crate” and pretend to toss a treat inside — i.e. make the hand movement only. As soon as your dog walks in, praise her and give her the treat. From this point on, you no longer need to toss a treat, but do give it as a reward after your dog has stepped into the crate. Once your dog goes into the crate on cue every time, start adding some distance. Take one step away and ask your dog to go in by saying “crate” and giving the hand signal. Gradually increase the distance until you can send her to her crate from across the room.

Tip:

Look towards the crate when you give your dog the cue. Dogs follow our gaze, and looking at them can actually freeze them in place.

Continued on page 48. Animal Wellness

Continued from page 47.

How to get your dog to like her crate Some dogs immediately take to a crate while others need time to acclimate. Even though dogs may use dens in the wild, a natural den is never entirely closed; the dogs can come and go as they wish. So you do need to get your dog used to the crate door being closed.

It is very important to make crate training a positive experience for your dog. Never force her into a crate or leave her inside if she shows signs of stress or anxiety. A crate is never to be used for punishment! You want it to be a happy place where your dog loves to spend time. Bedding and a toy will make it an especially comfortable place to relax. Feeding and playing in the crate will also help create a positive association. Allow access to the crate during the day so your dog can investigate it at her own will. If she decides to settle inside, allow her to do so without closing the door.

Crate safety

Remove your dog’s collar or harness when you leave her in the crate unsupervised. Collars and harnesses can easily get caught in the door or between the bars of a wire crate and cause injury or even death. Avoid toys with parts that can be chewed off and become a choking hazard. Blankets and sheets may become entangled around your dog’s legs, so a pad or pillow is a safer bedding choice.

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3. CLOSE THE CRATE DOOR Up to this point, there has been no mention of closing the crate door. You want to first make sure your dog feels very comfortable in the crate. Closing the door can be scary for her so it has to be done in very small increments — i.e. seconds at a time. With your dog outside the crate, place some of her favorite treats inside and close the door. When she is ready to go in to get the treats, open the door to let her in. While she is inside, close the door and feed her a few treats from the outside. After just a few seconds, open the door again and let her out. Practice short sessions throughout the day and very gradually increase the time you keep the door closed.

Tip:

If at any point your dog becomes anxious, you may have progressed too fast. Go back to where she was successful and gradually work up again.

4. INCREASE HER TIME IN THE CRATE When your dog happily goes into her crate and shows no signs of stress when you close the door, you may gradually increase the time the door is closed. It’s a good idea to provide her with a stuffed Kong or other safe chew or treat-dispensing toy. When your dog remains relaxed for several minutes, start walking away from the crate and eventually leave the room. Start with leaving for a few seconds and gradually build up the length of time you’re out of sight. Should your dog whine at any point, wait a moment at the point where she stops, then open the door; otherwise she may learn that whining will get her out immediately. Next time, let her out a bit sooner before she starts to whine and gradually increase the length of time again. Letting your dog out of the crate should be a boring event. Don’t greet her excessively or immediately start a play session because this will cause her to anxiously wait to be let out. You can say hello and give her a quick pat, but then ignore her for a little while; unless of course, she needs to go to the bathroom. In that case, calmly take her outside.

Tip:

It will be easier for your dog to relax in the crate if you provide her with sufficient exercise beforehand so she is ready to take a nap.

All dogs are different, which means some may never like being in a crate, but chances are, if you’re patient and use plenty of positive reinforcement, your dog will learn to love it!

TRAINING TIPS

IS YOUR DOG A GOOD

passenger? How to keep your canine passenger safe and stress-free in the car. By Nicole Ellis, CPDT-KA

Most dogs love riding in the car. But no matter where you’re going, even if it’s just a short trip, you always need to keep his safety and comfort in mind. So here’s one of the first things you should ask yourself: “Is my dog a good passenger?” Most vehicle accidents involving a dog arise from the animal causing a distraction. This is why the first rule of traveling with your dog is that he should be safely restrained by a crashtested carrier or harness. (My preferred brand is Sleepypod because of their high standards for testing.) A calm canine passenger makes the car ride safer, more enjoyable, and less stressful for other vehicle occupants; and, of course, it keeps the dog safer in case of an accident.

Dogs usually feel less anxious when securely buckled in. This can also help with animals that get carsick. Get your dog accustomed to his harness/ carrier by using it at home for a few days before trying it out in the car.

the vet — you don’t need any negative associations. Good destination ideas are the local pet store, or hiking trail.

Have fun going nowhere. Practice getting into the car, working on a “down” and “stay”, then rewarding. For nervous canine travelers, put your dog in the car and give him his food by hand. Repeat over the next few days.

A few quick reminders

Buckle in your dog and reward him with some treats and scratches. Sit with him and just hang out together for a few minutes.

Helping your dog feel comfortable in the car

Next, start up the car and go a very short distance — even half a block will do. When you return home, unbuckle your dog or take him out of his carrier, then offer him some treats.

To set him up for success, bring along a chew toy or a few treats to help keep him occupied.

Keep rides short and fun. For example, don’t make his first car ride a trip to

Slowly build up your time in the car together. • No animals in the front seat. A deployed air bag can injure him. • If your dog isn’t comfortable buckled in, the next safest place is on the floor well behind the front seat. • Never leave your dog alone in the car, especially when it’s hot. With a little patience and practice, your best friend will soon become a model passenger! Nicole Ellis is a pet lifestyle expert, certified professional dog trainer and co-author of Working Like a Dog. Nicole has appeared on The Today Show, NBC, Fox and MSN as well as Mashable, Pet360, Travel+Leisure, Huffington Post and more. Nicole’s dogs, Maggie and Rossi, are animal actors and appear in campaigns for Shiseido, AT&T, Neiman Marcus, Target, Uber, Oh Joy!, iFetch, Jax & Bones, Benjamin Moore and more.

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FUN & GAMES

play

Backyard for dogs

Looking for athome ways to keep your dog fit, active and happy? These backyard play ideas will get him going! By Tonya Wilhelm

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Play is very important to a dog’s wellbeing. It keeps him fit by providing physical exercise, stimulating his mind, and making him happy! Research has shown that dogs score higher in “obedient attentiveness” after play sessions than they do before. So playing with your dog isn’t frivolous — it’s good for him and it creates a stronger bond between you. Let’s take a look at some great backyard play ideas for you and your dog.

SET UP A MINI-AGILITY OR OBSTACLE COURSE If your yard is fenced in, try setting up a mini-agility or obstacle course for your dog. This is a great way to combine both physical and mental stimulation while having fun into the bargain. The equipment doesn't have to be expensive or professional — it doesn’t even have to involve “real” obstacles.

Jumps

over the handle. For most dogs, this is pretty easy. Keep practicing until your dog walks easily over the handle, while lifting up his feet and not knocking the broomstick. Once your dog has completed the first step, you can think about raising the height of the broom handle by 1” increments. At this stage, the broom should rest on a flat surface so that when your dog accidentally hits it with his feet it will just roll off. Do not secure the broom so it cannot fall; this can cause injury. It's also important to note that dogs should not be encouraged to jump very high, particularly if they are seniors, under two years of age or have mobility issues. A good rule of thumb is 2” to 4” for small dogs, 4” to 6” for medium dogs, and a maximum of 12” for larger dogs. Jumping should take place on the grass and not on hard surfaces like patios or driveways.

These are an inexpensive addition to your agility yard. You can purchase a nice set of PVC jumps online, or create your own; there are lots of instructional articles and videos online. But the easiest way to create a jump is to just to grab a broom.

Tunnels

Place the broom on the ground, and using a treat, lure your dog to walk

Tunnels can be a bit harder than jumps for your dog to master. The act of

Here’s another obstacle your dog can try. Stores for children often sell play tunnels that are open on both ends. You can also use a large cardboard box and just cut out the end flaps. If you have a small dog, a cat tunnel is another option.

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stay, or place him out of sight, and put the toy on the ground where it will be right within his sight. Release your dog and say “Find the ball/toy/bone”. Once he grabs it, start playing with him again. Repeat this process. As with finding treats, you’ll slowly begin to make it more difficult for him to find the toy.

standing on a strange surface and going inside an enclosed space can be scary. First, ensure the tunnel is secured to something, such as the wall of your house and a few heavy chairs. You do not want the tunnel to slide around as your dog goes through it. Next, toss some healthy high-value treats at the opening of the tunnel, with a few slightly inside. Praise your dog as he's gobbling up his snacks. If this is difficult for him, remain at this level for a day or two. Once your dog is happily eating all the treats, toss them into the tunnel. As he starts to go inside to eat them, run to the opposite end with more treats. Encourage your dog to come toward you for more treats. As he does, feed him treats while he’s inside the tunnel, then make a treat trail from your dog to the outside of the tunnel so he comes out. Make a big fuss when he's out, and tell him what a brave smart dog he is.

PLAY “FIND IT” GAMES Almost all dogs love “find it” games, and they work for all ages and sizes, and levels of mobility. Another plus is that these games can be played indoors, so they’re great for those who don’t have yards.

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Find the treat

Finding you

This is the best way to teach your dog the meaning of “find it”. Cue your dog into a “stay” position or put him inside the house for a few minutes. Place ten of your dog’s favorite treats on the ground about three feet apart. Release your dog and tell him to “find it.” After each treat he’s eaten, say “find it” again. Repeat this process, and start to gradually increase the distance between the treats. Eventually, the treats will be far enough apart that he won’t see them, but will begin looking for them with his nose. If he seems uncertain, help guide him, and next round place the treats a bit closer together again, until he gets it.

This is another version of “find it” that you can play in your yard. Ask your dog to “stay”, or duck away when he's distracted. Hide behind something that’s close to your dog. In a happy singsong voice, say your dog's name and “find me!” Then be very quiet and still. Let your dog search for you. If he's having a difficult time, make a little noise or call his name again. When he finds you, jump for joy and tell him what a good boy he is. One word of caution: if your dog seems stressed when he cannot find you, this may not be a good game for him.

Find the toy

These are just a few ideas for enjoying play and exercise with your dog in your own backyard. The sky really is the limit, so use your imagination. The most important part is that you both have fun!

Once your dog has a good understanding that “find it” means he's to hunt for treats, you can introduce “find the toy”. Start with a good game of fetch with your dog’s favorite toy. Then ask him to

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Q&A

Can CBD

alleviate seizures By Ann Brightman

in dogs?

SEIZURES IN DOGS ARE SCARY, AND THERE ARE MANY POSSIBLE CAUSES. CBD IS SHOWING PROMISE AS A WAY TO HELP.

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If you’re ever witnessed a dog undergoing a seizure, you know how frightening it is. The very first step, of course, is to get the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible for examination, tests and diagnosis. Treatment will vary, depending on the cause, but CBD is drawing attention as a potential way to help with this condition. To learn more, we spoke with Rob Kovler of Animal Nutritional Products (anpvet.com).

HAT CAN CAUSE Q WSEIZURES IN DOGS?

This is an interesting and somewhat difficult question to answer. A veterinarian will look for any type of head injury, a possible stroke, kidney disease, brain cancer or inflammation, encephalitis or poisoning. Further tests can narrow down the cause, as can observation by the dog parent and/or veterinarian. In about 6% of cases, canine epilepsy is idiopathic, meaning the cause of the seizures can’t be determined.

ARE THE SIGNS QWHAT AND SYMPTOMS?

The most obvious signs of a seizure are if your dog falls or collapses, and starts jerking uncontrollably and foaming at the mouth. Other signs may not be as dramatic, and include head shaking that doesn’t seem normal, wobbling from side to side when walking, a lack of response to your calls or cues, and confusion. If you observe any of these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately. Continued on page 56.

CBD IS BELIEVED TO ADDRESS THE CB1 AND CB2 RECEPTORS IN THE BRAIN. Animal Wellness

DOSAGE SHOULD BE STARTED LOW AND SLOWLY INCREASED BY 0.25 MG TO 0.50 MG INTERVALS.

Continued on from page 55.

Q A

HOW

DOES CBD HELP ALLEVIATE SEIZURES?

CBD is believed to address the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain. One clinical study, conducted by Dr. Stephanie McGrath from Colorado State University and concluded in 2017, used CBD (with less than 0.3% THC) on 18 dogs with seizures. Nine of the dogs (50%) reacted

well to CBD (they were also required to stay on anticonvulsant drugs, including phenobarbital and potassium bromide). Anecdotal evidence from dog parents also seems to be showing positive results, but more research is needed. Further clinical studies are underway, and we should have more concrete answers in a few years.

SHOULD QHOW CBD BE USED WHEN IT COMES TO DOSAGE?

This depends on many factors, including the dog’s weight and the severity of his condition. Dosage should be started low and slowly increased by 0.25 mg to 0.50 mg intervals. It can range from 2 mgs per 1 kg (2.2 lbs) to 10 mgs per 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of body weight. Given once or even twice a day, CBD may eventually help lower the number of seizures per month. CBD is usually orally administered via a liquid directly before a seizure. Do not give a dog CBD (or anything else) while a seizure is happening, since it could lead to choking.

HOW

DO I FIND A CBD PRODUCT FOR MY DOG?

Before purchasing any CBD product, whether

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at a store or online, please research the company carefully or seek the advice of your veterinarian. If your vet can’t advise you, call the company and ask them questions pertaining to your dog’s situation. Always ask for a third party analysis — this is a must. And keep in mind that just because a company sells a CBD product for animals, that doesn’t necessarily mean they know much about animal health!

CAN

CBD OIL INTERACT WITH CONVENTIONAL SEIZURES MEDS?

We don’t know the complete answer to this yet. The study mentioned above showed that CBD was used in conjunction with seizure medications with no adverse side effects. However, since CBD is still new to human and veterinary medicine, there is much more research to be done and more to be learned. While there are still many questions to be answered about the efficacy of CBD for seizures, it may be worth a try if your own dog has this problem. Just be sure to work with your veterinarian to ensure a correct diagnosis and treatment protocol for your dog’s seizure disorder, then try carefully adding in a high quality CBD product to see if it makes a difference.

TAPING

provides pain relief in dogs — a case report By Dorothy Cole

You’ve probably experienced that sinking sensation when you notice your dog isn’t moving the way he should. Is it an injury? Stiffness from aging joints? Or did he just sleep in a funny position last night? Taping might be the answer. When a muscle is inflamed, swollen or stiff due to fatigue, the space between the skin and muscle is compressed, resulting in a constricted lymphatic flow. Taping stimulates and lifts the hair follicles, which in turn lifts the tissue layers. This creates more space, allowing lymphatic fluids to flow more freely. This aids in healing, reduces swelling and increases range of motion. Let’s look at how this works by discussing a real case. Leigh Tracy has two therapy dogs that visit patients in nearby care facilities. One day, Cooper, her Cavalier King Charles spaniel, wasn’t his normal self. “He was quiet, not eating, and limping,” Leigh says. “At bedtime he would only lie on his right side. If I flipped him to his left he switched right back over to his right.” This gave Leigh a good indication that Cooper’s issue was in his left hip. As an Occupational Therapy professional and instructor, Leigh wanted to see whether her therapeutic skills would be helpful for Cooper. In addition to her human patients, she has some experience taping therapy horses, but Leigh also spoke with a colleague who had experience taping dogs. “She said I could tape the dog

without shaving him,” she says. “I used skin prep and let it dry. Cooper’s hair is not too thick — he’d just had a groom and we keep him short and tidy. “Cooper was initially resistant to my assessment, which required moving the affected tissue to see which direction to tape in — because it hurt,” Leigh continues. When she moved the tissue outward from where the limp seemed to originate, however, he was receptive. This indicated to Leigh that she should tape his hip in this region. Leigh anchored a “y” cut on the biceps femoris in an outward direction and another “y” a little lower. Cooper was a bit wiggly but Leigh says “he was a good sport!” He chose to lie in her golden retriever’s large comfy bed and Leigh covered him with a blanket for the night to keep his hip warm. He slept soundly all night. At 5:30 the next morning, Leigh went down to take out the dogs and feed them. “Cooper ran around the kitchen, even up and down the stairs. He could not do that the night before!” He wasn’t limping, and showed no indications of pain. He did not even react when Leigh palpated his left hip. Cooper went outside to go to the bathroom and was able to squat and get up more quickly, with less pain. “He ate his breakfast and went on with his day. My husband works from home and said that Cooper was his old self the entire day.”

Above: Following an assessment for pain and weakness, Leigh taped Cooper as shown.

Above: A closeup of how the tape was applied to Cooper's left hip area.

A couple of months later, Cooper’s hip pain has not recurred. “If it does, I know how to address it,” says Leigh. Dorothy Cole is a staff writer for the Kinesio Taping Association. In that role, she gets to learn about the many different ways Kinesio Taping helps patients, both four-footed and two-footed. Animal Wellness

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

CHOOSING

t h g i r e th

LIFEJACKET for your dog By Emily Watson

There are dozens of different doggie lifejackets available. Here’s how to choose the option that’s best for your canine companion! Summer is just around the corner, and that means you might be heading to your cottage or spending sunny afternoons on your boat. Hold on, though — first things first! If your pup is planning to tag along, he’ll need a good lifejacket to keep him safe. But do you get a basic one, or one with all the bells and whistles? Let’s “dive in” and take a closer look at a few important considerations.

DOES YOUR DOG REALLY NEED A LIFEJACKET? Many animal parents assume that because their dogs can swim, a lifejacket

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is unnecessary. But just like humans, even competent swimmers can get into trouble on the water. Your Labrador retriever might be able to paddle for 20 minutes straight without tiring, but what if he gets a muscle cramp or swims out too far and gets disoriented? There are more than enough “what ifs” to justify spending a bit of money on a lifejacket. At the end of the day, you can’t put a price on peace of mind. On the other hand, if your pup is new to swimming or tends to be anxious in or around water, a lifejacket is a great way to increase his confidence. It may not turn him into an Olympian overnight, but it will definitely make your family cottage trips more enjoyable.

NARROWING DOWN THE OPTIONS Okay, so you’re ready to invest. Now what? Walk into any pet store, and

you’ll find a variety of different types of lifejackets for dogs. Some have zippers, others are adorned with buckles. Certain brands have handles, while others are much more simplistic. Add in all the different color choices, and it’s enough to make your head spin! The most important thing to consider is what will work best for your needs. “A handle and bright colors for visibility are some of the basic features of almost any dog lifejacket,” says Katherine Taylor, social media manager with Hurtta America (hurtta247.com). “If you'll be out at night, look for reflectors.” See the sidebar on page 59 for more available features.

MATERIAL MATTERS Most doggie lifejackets are made of nylon or neoprene. They’re both good options that are comfortable and water resistant (depending on the quality

of the fabric), and typically don’t start to stink as long as they’re dried properly in between uses. “Lifejackets without neoprene dry faster and can be especially valuable in humid climates or for frequent use,” says Katherine. “For frequent or heavy use, look for durable fabrics and sturdy, large buckles that will be less likely to get choked with sand.” Mesh is another common material often used for life jackets, and is great for large breed and active dogs that might feel more comfortable in a flexible fabric. Just keep in mind that mesh tears quite easily, and might not last more than a season or two.

COLOR DOESN’T MATTER… RIGHT? Wrong! The color of your dog’s lifejacket is actually one of the most vital considerations. You want to pick one that’s bright and bold, ideally with reflectors, so you can spot your dog from a distance or in a crowd. If the waves get big enough or day turns to dusk before you have a chance to call your pup in to safety, that lifejacket will be a lifesaver. Most companies offer a variety of bright hues, so you can pick one that makes him more visible and goes with his coat.

When fitting your dog with a lifejacket, it’s also important to think about the activities he’ll be engaging in. If he does a lot of jumping — off docks, for instance — you don’t want the jacket to hinder his movements. If your dog is especially active in and around water, a poorly-fitting lifejacket can result in injury, so choose wisely! If after a few uses, you notice that the brand and style you purchased isn’t ideal, exchange it for another one.

ON A BUDGET? THAT’S OKAY! You don’t have to spend a fortune on a lifejacket for your dog. Sure, size and style are important, but you can buy one that works well for under $30. Keep in mind that, as with anything, you get what you pay for, so don’t expect a cheaper brand to last more than a season. If your dog is fully grown and you’re looking for something that will last him a few seasons, you’ll have to pay a bit more.

TOP HANDLE

Extra features Top handle — good for hoisting and guiding your dog in and out of the water

Leash attachment — comes in handy in an emergency; or if you’re alternating between walking and swimming Reflective strips — increases visibility of the jacket so you can spot your dog more easily Attachable flotation pad — holds his head out of the water even if he’s incapacitated Adjustable straps — for dogs that aren’t fully grown or may fluctuate in size

REFLECTIVE STRIPS

MAKING SURE IT FITS Doggie lifejackets aren’t one-size-fitsall. The size you choose is extremely important, and can make or break the effectiveness of the product. “A wellfitting jacket may shift a little, but won’t feel like it's going to slip off over the shoulders,” says Katherine. “Check the belly panel of the lifejacket for a supportive, secure fit. If the lifejacket has too-long straps and no means of containing the strap ends, trim them shorter after adjusting for your dog, and seal the ends with a flame.”

BRIGHT COLOR

ADJUSTABLE STRAPS Animal Wellness

What

telemedicine can (and can’t) do for your dog or cat

D gs Cats

Telemedicine is an expanding healthcare movement for dogs and cats as well as humans. It has its drawbacks and legal limitations, but it also offers some advantages, especially to animal parents who don’t have holistic vet clinics nearby. By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Telemedicine is a growing facet of human medicine. The need for telemedicine in the veterinary field is also under discussion, along with how to effectively and legally offer this important service. In this article, I’ll introduce you to telemedicine for dogs and cats, examine its pros and cons, and show you where this budding service is heading.

WHAT EXACTLY IS TELEMEDICINE? Telemedicine involves a doctor or other healthcare team member using telephone or email to provide medical advice and assistance to a patient. In human medicine, telemedicine may also involve the use of Skype or a mobile app to communicate with and visually observe the patient to help provide a diagnosis, or follow up on a case, such as a postoperative examination and discussion.

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The appropriate application of telemedicine in veterinary medicine can enhance animal care by facilitating communication, diagnostics, treatments, client education, scheduling, and other tasks necessary to helping your dog or cat.

LAWS AND REGULATIONS One question that often arises is whether or not it is legal for veterinarians to offer telemedicine to their clients. The short answer is “yes”, but there is a caveat: telemedicine may only be conducted within an existing veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) as defined by the applicable state’s Veterinary Practice Act (these acts vary by state). If a VCPR does not currently exist, the veterinarian should refrain from diagnosing, prognosing or treating the patient in question (see sidebar on page 62 for more info). An exception involves advice

given in an emergency situation until an animal can be seen by or transported to a veterinarian.

PROS AND CONS OF TELEMEDICINE In the debate about telemedicine, there are several advantages and drawbacks to consider: PROS • Allows quick and easy access to medical advice • Helps an animal parent determine if the issue requires emergency or follow-up care • May lower cost of care for the animal parent •G ives animal parents access to holistic or integrative advice in areas where these services are not offered by local veterinarians.

TWO COMMUNICATION CATEGORIES

When it comes to communications between veterinarians and clients, there are two important categories — client-facing and non-client-facing — which are distinguished by whether or not a VCPR has been established. 1. Telemedicine is client-facing and includes the delivery of information specific to a particular patient; this form of communication is allowable only within the context of an established VCPR. 2. Non-client-facing models involve the delivery of general advice, telemarketing and advertising, and do not require a VCPR.

CONS • Lack of a physical examination may preclude a correct diagnosis if such has not been made by a prior veterinarian, or if that diagnosis is questionable • Advice given by the doctor or technician on call may be inaccurate and delay proper medical care since a physical examination is not possible • The animal parent may choose not to follow the advice (especially if urgent care is needed) due to additional costs, resulting in harm to the dog or cat • It can be difficult to give accurate advice without seeing the animal. Continued on page 62.

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More about the

Continued from page 61.

VCPR

State boards of veterinary medicine typically define a valid VCPR as one in which the animal is physically present at the veterinary hospital and is examined by the attending veterinarian. The reason for this strict definition is that a proper diagnosis and formulation of a treatment plan can only be done in many cases by physically examining the patient.

As an example, diagnosing heart disease requires, at the very least, listening to the animal’s heart. But even once a diagnosis has been made by a doctor, another veterinarian is not legally permitted to offer a second opinion via telemedicine to a client whose dog or cat he/she has never examined. However, a physical examination might not be important for the second opinion, since the diagnosis was already made by the prior veterinarian who did examine the animal. The second opinion, if not done to confirm a questionable diagnosis, is simply used to review various treatment options that, in my opinion, would typically not require an actual examination by the doctor offering the second opinion. Animal parents should note that current lawsuits are facing state boards to allow telemedicine outside the traditional VCPR, as a way to help animals not directly seen by their consulting doctors.

You can learn more at avma.org/ advocacy/state-and-local-advocacy/ veterinary-state-board-websites.

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I understand both sides of this argument and agree with many of these points. Personally, I believe that consulting with an animal parent on the phone can be problematic, especially since a physical examination is not possible, and any required laboratory testing may not have been done.

TELEMEDICINE WIDENS ACCESS TO HOLISTIC CARE However, as a holistic veterinarian, I know that most dog and cat parents do not have access to someone with my training or expertise. Often, the animal’s prior doctor has done everything a traditional doctor could do to help the dog or cat, but the patient still fails to heal properly. Using telemedicine, I and my holistic colleagues can often offer other natural therapies that may mean the difference between life and death for the animal. To deprive the dog or cat of the specialized help I can offer simply because I can’t physically examine him makes no sense, since this deprivation of care results in further harm or even death to the animal. Since I’m morally obligated by my oath to “do no harm”, failing to help when the animal parent seeks my care certainly results in me doing “a lot of harm”!

A RATIONAL SOLUTION Currently, any doctor can consult with his own clients via phone or email regarding patients already in his practice. And while many state boards of veterinary medicine currently do not allow consultations with animal parents who have not physically presented their dogs or cats to the doctor, that will likely change in a few years. This is especially true as larger corporations continue to purchase veterinary hospitals and funnel large donations to those who make the laws. A rational solution would involve a change in liability laws that would allow telemedicine to occur between doctors and potential clients, even though the doctor may not have physically examined the dog or cat. If a physical examination would help the doctor make a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation, and the client is unable to comply due to factors such as distance, laws could be changed to decrease liability for an inaccurate diagnosis and treatment. In other words, the client needs to accept the potential downside of a consultation via telemedicine, and give up the right to sue for malpractice. Doctors can also decline consultations in cases where an examination is critical to diagnosis and treatment, and decline to help the client if appropriate medical records and lab tests are not provided. Telemedicine is here to stay and will only grow in use and popularity. While it has limitations and legal issues, expanding the options we use to help animals can improve their care. It can also give you, the dog or cat parent, more access to veterinary advice on holistic care, and more knowledge for making the correct decisions for your companion’s well-being.

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Questions Answering some key

about nutrition for dogs and cats

The premiumization of pet food has caused an explosion of choice for consumers. It has also created a general sense of bewilderment when it comes to choosing what’s right for your dog or cat. We reached out to Dr. Micah Kohles from Oxbow Animal Health to provide us with clarity on some key nutritional points. Keep in mind that there is no one-sizefits-all approach when it comes to canine and feline nutrition. Each animal is an individual and his diet should follow what works best for him. As always, confer with your veterinarian before making any sudden changes.

Q A

“How do I build a nutritional program for my dog or cat?” It starts with remembering that each animal is an individual. His nutrition program should be specific to his needs, and include factors such as age, breed, activity level, home environment, health status, weight, body type, etc. These factors will also affect the type and quantity of food, as well as how and when it is offered. Treats should be considered as well. The more specific and individual a feeding program is, the more likely you are to successfully support the animal nutritionally.

“How can I decide what’s right for my animal?”

Q A

Start by considering the true, natural nutritional needs of your dog or cat. What would he be eating if he was living ferally or in his natural setting? Beyond that, how far has your animal evolved beyond his ancestors? This is often a stretch for people, but understanding

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that cats are carnivores and dogs are omnivores means knowing that they have different nutritional needs — and these should be considered when deciding which food is appropriate. Many people are making decisions based on incomplete information, and falling for misleading or incomplete marketing tactics and claims.

“Should I give my dog or cat probiotics?”

Q A

People are becoming more aware of the vast benefits of a healthy microbiome — everything from better digestive health to psychological well-being to immune health, and more is being discovered every day. What I would caution against is trying to interfere too much with the natural microbiome, unless a true need presents itself. Using incorrect and inappropriate probiotics is risky because it can add detrimental or non-native microbes to the microbiome.

“Would you recommend including microalgae in my animal’s diet?”

Q A

I am a proponent of microalgae products when they’re used in the correct amounts as part of a bigger formula. It is essential, though, that any marketing and nutritional claims associated with these products are validated. Just like any new potential ingredient, you need to strip away the marketing buzz and truly focus on what the ingredients bring to the formula from a nutritional perspective. Plant-based algae meals are a unique way to provide protein, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, fiber and other useful nutrients to a final product.

I think part of the buzz with microalgae is that it is a novel ingredient that provides Omega fatty acids — not that it has any kind of magical nutritional value. Quality and quantity are the keys to how microalgae is integrated with other ingredients to deliver a final nutritional formula to the animal.

“I’ve been thinking of switching my animal towards a plant-based or vegetarian diet. What are the pros and cons?”

Q A

The potential cons of these diets far outweigh the theoretical benefits. These diets on their own cannot provide a complete and balanced nutritional profile for either dogs or cats and will eventually lead to nutritional issues. Vast amounts of variety and supplementation need to coincide with vegan/vegetarian diets to even bring them close to being nutritionally complete and balanced, and most people aren’t knowledgeable enough to do this. Both dogs and cats evolved on diets high in meat/animal proteins, and meatless diets do not align with this history. Dr. Micah Kohles will be speaking live at SuperZoo, August 31 — September 3, 2020. To register, please visit: www.superzoo.com/register.

Dr. Micah Kohles received his DVM from Kansas State University in 2001 and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 2010. He practiced in Colorado for two years before returning to the Nebraska Animal Medical Center and Lincoln Children’s Zoo. In 2006, he joined Oxbow Animal Health as Director of Veterinary Science & Outreach. He is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nebraska and has worked with multiple zoological Institutions.

FELINE HEALTH

Caring for your cat after surgery By Helen Krasner

Has your cat just had surgery? This guide to caring for her will help ensure she makes a successful recovery. From dental extractions to cancer operations, chances are your cat may need surgery at some point in her life. In order to help ensure she makes a good recovery, you need to take a proactive part in her care, especially after she comes home. Read on for some hints and tips on what you can do to care for your kitty after surgery.

beneficial for her as they are to you, even if she’s still anaesthetised or is ill. She may not seem able to respond to you, but talk to her softly and calmly, and stroke her if possible. This will soothe and reassure her, and a calm cat who knows her person is nearby has a much better chance of recovery than one who is stressed.

WHILE YOUR CAT IS CONVALESCING IN HOSPITAL

PREPARING FOR YOUR CAT'S RETURN HOME

Rules and regulations vary at veterinary hospitals, but if you are allowed to, visit your cat as much as possible. These visits will be as

If your cat has had major surgery, she will need some time to convalesce at home, so you need to plan for this in advance. Are there children or other animals in the household? If so, you

need to find a quiet place for your cat to rest for the first few days or weeks. A room where she can be completely by herself is ideal. But if this is impossible, or if your cat hates being alone, invest in a large dog cage or pen, and keep her in that. Put the pen in a place where she can be undisturbed but won’t feel lonely, such as a corner of your living room.

CARING FOR YOUR CAT ONCE SHE'S HOME Your cat may need medication or other remedies on a regular basis; depending on the situation, she may also need physiotherapy. Your vet will tell you what needs to be done, so you’ll need to make a plan to fit your cat’s care into your schedule; and, if possible, let someone else in the household know what needs doing so they can take over if you are not around. One of Animal Wellness

How your other cats might react If you have a multi-cat household, you will need to be extra careful, especially when your cat is well enough to start mixing again. Remember that the others may not have seen or interacted with this ill cat for a while; she may also smell unfamiliar, and/or remind them of vets and hospitals. Even cats who were best friends before may take a while to re-adjust in such a situation. So make re-introductions slowly, and don't be surprised if it takes a little time for the cats to become friendly again.

For healing and calming

Your veterinarian will have already prescribed the necessary medications and alternative remedies your cat needs to recover from her surgery, and it’s very important to follow his or her instructions. Here are a couple of other complementary therapies to consider adding in (just be sure to touch base with your vet first): • Homeopathic Arnica is excellent for wound healing and may be helpful both before and after surgery. • Bach Rescue Remedy can help calm and reassure a cat who may be stressed from her hospital stay as well as the surgery.

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my cats needed medication four times a day, along with regular physiotherapy, when she first came home after surgery. I quickly realised it would be impossible for me to go out for a whole day and still fit her care into my schedule. So I cancelled some outings, and

should, or if she seems to be in more pain than expected or refuses to eat, don't hesitate to bring your next veterinary appointment forward. No vet is going to criticise you for being too careful, and complications are always possible. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Put the pen in a place where she can be undisturbed but won’t feel lonely, such as a corner of your living room. arranged for someone else to help out when I couldn't be there. You need to also make time to just be with your cat and give her extra attention. Showing her love and affection at this time is very important. You will probably need to take your cat back to the vet for regular check-ups, depending on the type of surgery she has had. But in between times, do keep a careful eye on her. If she doesn't appear to be progressing the way you think she

REMEMBER: RECOVERY TAKES TIME Most cats seem to bounce back amazingly fast after surgery, a fact which many of us envy! But bear in mind that they are also experts at hiding how they feel. So be watchful, don’t rush things, and be ready to give your cat extra love and attention for quite a while if necessary. If you follow the suggestions in this article, your cat should make a complete recovery from her surgery!

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REIKI THERAPY Aileen D’Angelo, RMT, Cn. TPM Hoof, Paw & Claw Reiki Northboro, MA USA Phone: (508) 393-3684 Email: hoofpawclaw@verizon.net Website: www.reikiforcritters.com

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PRODUCT PROFILE

The

Gentle Groomer — an innovative grooming tool you didn’t know you needed Most animal caretakers have a favorite grooming tool — the brush or comb they reach for again and again. Chances are, it gets the job done. But grooming is about so much more than removing hair, and the majority of tools on the market don’t address that. Enter StripHair® The Gentle Groomer®. This all-in-one grooming device is turning grooming into a therapeutic bonding experience that helps dogs, cats and horses look and feel their best. Created by Betty’s Best, Inc.® in 2014, The Gentle Groomer is an awardwinning product that’s taken the animal world by storm. Formulated with natural tree rubber, orange essential oils and antimicrobial agents, it’s designed to clean, shine, shed and massage animals in the most soothing way possible. Unlike traditional brushes, it contains no bristles or sharp edges that can scratch the skin and harm hair follicles. Instead, the textured rubber gently draws dirt and dander to the surface while removing loose hair. Over the past five years, this unique tool has quickly become the go-to for hundreds of animal caretakers and industry experts alike. Dogs and cats enjoy being groomed with it, which is a game changer for animals with a lot of grooming-induced anxiety. But

why, exactly, does it have this effect? “Unlike harsh metal tools, The Gentle Groomer mimics the feeling of a hand firmly stroking the body,” says Betty. “Animals relax into this because of its physiological (increased blood flow) and psychologic (calming and reassuring) effects.” Beyond its ability to instill relaxation, The Gentle Groomer has been shown to stimulate circulation, as well as warm the muscles before activity and promote faster recovery. And, of course, it effectively removes loose hair and dirt. Because it’s so gentle, it can be used daily, year-round. It helps winter coats shed naturally, removes mud in the spring, and keeps your animals gleaming straight through the summer, fall and winter. You can even use it to lather shampoo and slick off water during bath time! The time you spend grooming your animal companion is extremely valuable. It should be purposeful and effective, and The Gentle Groomer is helping animal parents everywhere achieve just that. Plus, thanks to its durability and multi-purpose functionality, it saves money and time. This is something all animal caretakers are happy to have more of, including Betty herself. “We all have animals of our own, so we know

Why choose the Gentle Groomer

istributes the skin’s natural oils for a D softer, shinier coat Flexible rubber doesn’t harm skin or hair follicles asy to use on delicate, bony E contours of animal’s body Warms up skin, muscles and fascia before activity and/or bodywork Loosens dirt and dead hair and wicks away excess water during bath time Helps to naturally shed winter coat oes the job of multiple grooming D tools, saving time and money on-porous, antibacterial, antifungal N and easy to clean Stimulates blood flow elaxes hair follicles, creating a R smooth, even gleam ecommended by large and small R animal experts Offers year-round benefits

firsthand how deserving they are,” she says. “The Gentle Groomer allows us to prioritize their physical and mental well-being simultaneously, and we’re so happy to be able to share it with the world.” Animal Wellness

NEWSWORTHY

Research suggests dog people believe they’re happier than cat people Are you a cat person or dog person? According to this study, those who fall into the latter group are statistically happier! It’s a classic debate: do you prefer dogs or cats? General Social Survey conducted an investigation to determine which of the two opposing teams of animal lovers might be happier. The results showed that dog parents are about twice as likely as cat parents to say they’re happy. The surveyors admit there are likely numerous reasons why dog people are reportedly happier than those with cats. For instance, their data shows that dog parents are more likely to be married couples who own their own homes — two factors that positively affect one’s overall feelings of fulfilment and purpose.

To find metrics that supported or disproved the results of the GSS survey, a people-finder company named Nuwber stepped in. “We decided to leverage our database of publiclyavailable information on US households, to confirm or debunk popular myths about ‘dog people’ or ‘cat people',” says Irina Slobodchikova of Nuwber. “What other factors could make one group happier than the other?” Among other things, Nuwber found that dog parents are more likely to earn more money, and also lean more towards outdoor activities and sports — two further indicators of happiness.

nuwber.com/blog/cat-people-vs-dog-people-are-they-really-different

Animal Wellness

Can I

CLEVER CATS

CLICKER my TRAIN cat? By Ingrid King

Contrary to what many people think, clicker training isn’t just for dogs. Read on to learn how you can use this effective training tool with your cat.

Cats are often considered untrainable — but nothing could be further from the truth. Not only are cats far more sociable than many people used to think, they can also be easily trained. One popular and effective way to do this is with clicker training.

WHAT IS CLICKER TRAINING AND WHY DOES IT WORK? Clicker training is a positive reinforcement method based on behavioral psychology. Marking desirable behavior with a sound, usually a click, communicates to the cat that she is doing something you want her to. In order to begin, you need two things: 1. Clicker: a plastic button that makes a clicking sound when pressed. 2. Reinforcer (reward): while cats have individual preferences, the most

common reinforcer is a food treat. For those that aren’t food-motivated, enjoyable activities such as play with a special toy, or petting in a favorite spot, can be used. Know that the sound of the clicker will mean nothing to your cat unless it is paired with the reinforcer. After repeatedly and immediately following up the clicker with the reinforcer (be it a treat, toy or pet), the cat will begin to associate the sound with the reward. To begin training your cat, pick a behavior you’d like her to do. As soon as she does the behavior, click and follow immediately with a food treat or other reward. Start with behaviors cats do naturally, such as sitting or looking at you. Once your cat understands what the clicker means, you can move on to shaping other behaviors (more on these below), or even tricks such as a high five.

WHY CLICKER TRAIN CATS? “Cats are highly intelligent creatures that need much more stimulation than people think,” says Samantha Martin, owner of The Amazing Acro-Cats, a troupe of rescue cats who perform tricks. In addition to providing mental stimulation, clicker training can also help solve behavioral problems. “Clicker training can be used in countless ways for cat training,” says feline behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC. She uses it for: • Biting • Aggression • Attention-getting behavior • Excessive meowing “The only situation in which I don't use it is with litter box training, because I don't want to disturb the cat at that moment.” Continued on page 74. Animal Wellness

CLICKER TRAINING CAN EVEN BE LIFESAVING

Train your cat to come when called, and to get into his carrier. This way, you won’t have to worry about being unable to find him in an emergency, or have to struggle to get him into the carrier. Continued from page 73. “I use clicker training quite frequently with my clients,” adds Dr. Marci L. Koski, a certified feline behavior and training consultant. “It can be a wonderful form of cognitive enrichment, a tool for behavior modification, and is simply a lot of fun!” Dr. Koski recommends clicker training to encourage cats to:

2. Train your cat before mealtimes. This is especially useful if he isn’t treatmotivated. Clicker training at these times will encourage him to work for his dinner.

• Scratch on appropriate surfaces • Use alternative perches instead of getting up on countertops and table • Reduce door-darting behavior • Reward calm or quiet behavior and help cats cope with stressful situations.

4. Start with simple behaviors and move gradually to more complex ones. “If your cat becomes frustrated while learning something new, go back to an easier behavior or trick so you end on a positive note,” recommends Samantha

“Clicker training can also help teach your cat to participate in low-stress handling procedures such as nail-trimming and giving medications,” adds Dr. Koski.

5. Tailor your training to your cat’s personality. “If he’s high energy, you may want to teach him long jumps and high jumps,” suggests Samantha. “With less energetic cats, you can work on ‘high five’ and ‘sit pretty’.”

TIPS FOR SUCCESS 1. Don’t leave food out for your cat 24/7. Not only is this unhealthy, but a full cat is not going to be interested in working for her food and will be less responsive to clicker training.

3. Break training time into short sessions of five to ten minutes each.

The most important tip of all? Clicker training should be fun for both you and your cat!

HOW CLICKER TRAINING HELPS SHELTER CATS GET ADOPTED

Various initiatives over the past number of years have used clicker training to help shelter cats get adopted. Jackson Galaxy’s Cat Pawsitive program focuses on improving the lives of shelter cats by introducing positive-reinforcement training, including clicker training, to shelters. "Originally, the main goal of the program was to engage shy cats who are often overlooked at shelters, and teach them to be less intimidated so they become more adoptable,” says Jackson. “When cats learn new behaviors, such as a simple high five, it gives them confidence to interact more, which ultimately gives them a better chance to be adopted.” A fringe benefit of clicker training is the increased bond between shelter cats and the staff and volunteers. “Having a directed activity to do with the cats gives their human caretakers a bigger sense of purpose, as well as greater satisfaction in knowing they’re helping the cats become their best selves while they wait for their forever homes. Now that's what I call a win/win!"

Animal Wellness

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Just because your dog is elderly or disabled doesn’t mean you can’t take him for walks. Petique’s Newport Pet Stroller in Desert Rose is a perfect way to treat any small dog (or cat!) to some fresh air and a change of scene. It features a spacious interior, detachable carrier, and a smooth and enjoyable ride for your best friend. Petique.com

Fish oil offers your dog many benefits — it helps keep his coat shiny, his skin healthy, and his joints comfortable. Iceland Pure provides the highest quality pharmaceutical grade fish oil products, sourced from Norway and Iceland. The oils are extracted at very low temperatures to keep the fatty acids intact and rich in nutrients. IcelandPure.com

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Walking your dog at night is a good idea when the weather is hot, but visibility is paramount. Nite Ize offers fun and functional accessories that keep you and your dog visible and safe after dark. Products include the NiteDog Rechargeable LED Leash, featuring end-to-end illumination with glow or flash modes. NiteIze.com/collection/pet.asp

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Animal Wellness

simple 4 STRETCHES

FOCUS ON FITNESS

FOR DOGS

By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM

HELP KEEP YOUR DOG LIMBER WITH THESE GENTLE STRETCHES.

Animal Wellness

Give yourself a stretch. Notice how good it feels, and how it helps you feel more relaxed and supple. Your dog can benefit from stretching too. In fact, gentle stretching exercises are a wonderful way to improve his well-being, whether he’s an athlete, senior citizen, a giant breed, or just deserving of some extra attention (and what dog isn’t?). Dogs who are getting up in years are prone to joint problems, muscle loss, decreased flexibility, and the aches and pains of an aging body. Stretching can help alleviate these issues. If your dog is an athlete — especially in a strenuous sport like flyball or agility — he’s putting stress on his body whenever he competes. Stretching is extremely beneficial for him. Large and giant breeds typically have more musculoskeletal problems than smaller dogs, so keeping your big guy or gal lean, strong and supple with stretches will serve him well throughout his life.

YOU CAN KEEP HIM FLEXIBLE Conventional veterinary medicine doesn’t have much to offer dogs with sore bodies beyond drugs and surgery, and these treatments are typically attempted only after a problem has developed and the animal’s mobility and quality of life are compromised. That’s why natural therapies like stretching, regular physical activity and chiropractic are so important to maintaining your dog’s comfort and flexibility, no matter what his age or activity level.

All it takes is a few minutes a day to help your dog preserve and even improve his mobility and range of motion — and prevent or alleviate pain. The key is to do it consistently. Daily walks followed by a short session of gentle stretching are a great way to keep him limber and conditioned for a lifetime.

FOCUS ON THE HIPS, SHOULDERS AND BACK Stretching is especially beneficial for three areas of your dog’s body — the hips, shoulders and back. The following stretches, done slowly and gently, are well tolerated by most dogs. If you don’t feel confident in your ability to do these stretches, consider asking your veterinarian or a veterinary chiropractor to demonstrate them for you so you can do them at home. For most of these stretches, it’s best if your dog is standing, but you can also do them when he’s lying on her side, or in the case of the chest stretch, on his back. Needless to say, if he shows any sign of pain during stretching, discontinue the movement and have her seen by your vet or rehab therapist as soon as possible to determine where the pain is coming from.

STRETCHING THE HIP FLEXORS

Dr. Becker’s husband demonstrates the hip stretch on their rescue dog, Roscoe.

Tips for successful STRE STR E TCHING Following these guidelines will help your dog (and you) get the most out of your stretching sessions:

3 D o the exercises in a safe, quiet

environment — a place where your dog feels completely at ease.

3 Set a mental intention to heal or comfort your dog.

3 B e gentle and patient, and stay present in the moment.

3 Follow your dog’s lead. 3O bserve him for any signs of discomfort

or uneasiness and adjust your approach as necessary.

3 T ake note of bumps, lumps, areas of heat or sensitivity, and changes in the skin or fur. Discuss anything out of the ordinary with your veterinarian.

The hip flexors are muscles that allow your dog to move his legs and hips while walking, trotting or running. To stretch the hip flexors, ask your dog to stand, and grasp a back leg above the knee. Gently and slowly move the leg back straight out behind your dog’s body. When you reach a point of resistance, where further extension would

Animal Wellness

require applying pressure, hold the leg in position for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat this stretch two or three times with each back leg.

Roscoe enjoys a shoulder stretch. Pick a quiet, relaxing spot, either indoors or out, in which to do these exercises.

Benefits your dog will receive from this stretch include increased movement and flexibility in the hips and spine, improved conditioning of the lower back, hip and leg muscles, and a reduction in arthritis-related discomfort and pain.

STRETCHING THE SHOULDER FLEXORS

For the back stretch, move a treat slowly towards your dog’s tail so he’ll turn his head to follow it, stretching his body into a “C” shape. Do this exercise on both sides of the dog.

Shoulder flexors enable smooth movement and proper use of your dog’s front legs. To stretch them, have your dog stand and grasp a front leg above the elbow. Place your other hand under the elbow to stabilize it, and gently move the leg forward (imagine you’re teaching your dog do a “high five”). At the point of resistance, hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat two or three times with each front leg. Not only does this stretch improve the integrity of the dog’s shoulder structure, it also benefits the wrists and elbows, and increases his breathing capacity by loosening his chest muscles.

The chest stretch helps to relieve strain in the dog’s chest muscles. Remember to be gentle when doing this and any other stretches.

Don’t make your dog lie on his back if he doesn’t like it. Because Roscoe isn’t happy being on his back, Dr. Becker’s other dog, Ada, demonstrates this version of the chest stretch.

Animal Wellness

STRETCHING THE BACK This stretch requires a few training treats. With your dog standing, position yourself to one side of her and move the treat slowly in the direction of her tail, encouraging her to follow it with her eyes — turning only her head. This will require her to bend her body into a “C” shape. Hold her in this position for 15 to 30 seconds, then step to her other side and repeat the exercise. Do two or three stretches on each side.

After you’ve stretched your dog’s back, he’ll really enjoy a sacrum and back rub. The sacrum is the area in front of the base of the tail, between the hipbones. Using light pressure and circular movements, massage the hard flat surface of the sacrum. Move your hands slowly up your dog’s spine and back, using gentle massage strokes. Regular sacrum and back rubs decrease anxiety, increase the flow of spinal fluid, enhance mobility in the hips and spine, and help bring your dog’s body into balance.

STRETCHING THE CHEST Here’s one more stretch to try. The muscles in your dog’s chest undergo a great deal of strain from day to day. This exercise is called an abduction stretch, meaning a stretch away from center. With your dog standing, grasp one front leg near the wrist and gently open it out to the side. Hold for several seconds and release. Repeat with the other front leg. You can also do this stretch while your dog is lying on his back, if he is comfortable doing so. Grasp both front legs near the wrists and gently open them out to the side. Hold for several seconds, release and repeat. Since your dog may also expect a chest or tummy rub (he’s on his back, after all!), you can relax him further by giving a gentle chest massage using light pressure and circular strokes. Regular stretching not only helps keep your dog’s muscles supple and flexible; it also boosts circulation, increases oxygenation and hydration, produces a calm and contented feeling, and enhances the bond you share with him.

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MUST READS Title: The Clean Pet Food Revolution Authors: Ernie Ward, Alice Oven and Ryan Bethencourt As more animal parents strive to reduce the carbon pawprints of their dogs and cats, they’re seeking pet foods that support this mission. Often, this means reaching for alternative protein sources from sustainably-produced meats, insects, or vegetarian ingredients. In his new book, The Clean Pet Food Revolution, veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward dives into this topic with gusto, successfully compiling a huge amount of information into an easily-digestible volume. Like all members of his profession, Dr. Ward took an oath to “promote animal health and welfare, relieve animal suffering, protect the health of the public and environment, and advance comparative medical knowledge”. To him, that means taking steps to revolutionize pet food and sharing his findings with the world. Dr. Ward and his co-authors address the ethical and environmental issues surrounding the food we feed our dogs and cats, and how to make positive changes. From the dangers of animal farming to the challenges of plant-based feeding, Dr. Ward covers this topic in a clear, thoughtful, and utterly eye-opening way. Publisher: Lantern Books

Title: Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs Author: Jennifer Finney Boylan If you’re looking for a new memoir to add to your summer reading list, your search is over. Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs by New York Times columnist and transgender activist, Jennifer Finney Boylan, is a compelling, relatable read that all animal lovers will enjoy. Like any noteworthy memoir, it’s packed with reflection and insight — as well as a unique perspective that sets it far apart from anything else in its category. Boylan’s spellbinding ability to spin a narrative is apparent from the first page of this one-of-akind tale. On the surface, the book is about the dogs that dot the different chapters of Boylan’s life. But this bestselling author manages, quite eloquently, to take readers on a much deeper journey, using these canine characters as escorts. The plot is interwoven with a plethora of different stories and emotions that will leave you questioning what you thought you knew about identity, the animals that grace our lives, and life itself. Publisher: Celadon Books

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Natural Pet Products

HEALERS PETCARE – Manufacturing and engineering innovated pet care products to keep your pets healthy and safe. Healers Medical Wraps are made with a High Tech material that quickly wicks away moisture, helping the injured area to stay dry and reduce

the opportunity for infection. For more information: (800) 924-7036; www.healerspetcare.com WHISKERS HOLISTIC PETCARE – One of the early pioneers of the alternative, holistic pet care movement since 1988, Whiskers proudly presents a variety of unique, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, naturally preserved, products with new products always in process. Whisker's finds the best of the best in foods, treats and supplements and spares no expense in testing and researching companies. For more information: 1-800-WHISKERS; www.1800whiskers.com WHOLISTIC PET ORGANICS – Producing high-quality products for your pets with USA-sourced ingredients since 1998. You will never find by-products, meals, fillers, synthetics, or GMOs of any kind. If it is not good enough for you, it is not good enough for your pets! Shop a full line of products for stress & anxiety, digestive support, skin & coat, joint support, immune support and much much for your dog, cat or horse. www.wholisticpetorganics.com Schools & Training

PET MASSAGE (FOR DOGS) TRAINING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE – “Remove Disease from Your Pet’s Body Using Only Your Hands.” Skype and written interview: Jonathan Rudinger with Dr. Karen Becker – Dr. Mercola’s August 2014 Healthy Pets Newsletter: Link on homepage of www.petmassage.com WALKS ‘N’ WAGS PET FIRST AID – National Leaders in Pet First Aid Certification Courses for dogs and cats. Learn preventative skills and practice emergency bandaging with live wiggly pets. Distance Learning also available. www.walksnwags.com or (800) 298-1152

Animal Wellness

TO THE RESCUE

Photos courtesy of Cat Town.

Cat Town

Animal Wellness will donate 25% of each subscription purchased using promo code CT to Cat Town.

Cat Town rescues luckless felines like Bubba (top right) and takes steps to transform them into happy, trusting house cats.

LOCATION: Oakland, CA YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2011 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/OR FOSTER HOMES: Cat Town has 11 staff members and about 200 volunteers and foster families. TYPES OF ANIMALS THEY WORK WITH: They rescue elderly, frightened, stressed, and sick or injured cats who would otherwise be killed. “By focusing on these overlooked cats, we’ve helped reduce the euthanasia rate for Oakland’s shelter cats by more than 70% since 2011, and have shared our approach with rescue organizations in more than 60 cities,” says Quinn White, Development Director. SPECIAL PROJECTS: Cat Town runs four key donor-supported programs: Forgotten Kitten Project – a national model that helps undersocialized kittens aged three to ten months learn to trust humans, so they can be adopted rather than euthanized. In It for Life – a program that removes medical care as a barrier to senior cat adoption by covering the cost for the rest of the cats’ lives. Emergency Medical Fund – allows Cat Town to step in to support cats with urgent and treatable illnesses and injuries, fast-tracking urgent care where it’s most needed.

Animal Wellness

Foster Program – provides cats who get stressed in a shelter cage with a calm environment so they can feel safe, reveal who they are when they aren’t fearful, and get adopted. FAVORITE RESCUE STORY: “Bubba is permanently engraved in my heart,” says Dawn Pieper, Cat Town’s Foster Coordinator. “When I first saw him at the shelter he was angry, hissing and frozen. I noticed he had scars on both his eyes, but his vision was still fine. From his behavior, I thought he was feral, but then I learned he had experienced unbearable abuse at the hands of some neighborhood kids.” Dawn made it her mission to teach Bubba to trust humans again. She worked with him for six weeks, and eventually he began to show a friendlier side of himself. “That’s when I knew he wasn’t feral, and that Cat Town could help him,” she says. Over the next couple of months, Bubba blossomed into a snuggly lap cat. He was deemed ready for adoption, and melted the hearts of a young couple looking for their first feline companion. “From that day on, Bubba has slept on the bed between them,” says Dawn. “It’s hard when cats like Bubba arrive at the shelter, but knowing we can help them be happy by giving them the time and love they need makes what I do every day the most rewarding job I could ask for.”

Find Cat Town online:

cattownoakland.org | facebook.com/cattownoak instagram.com/cattownoak

Feline Wellness