Here, Let Me Help You With That

By Elizabeth L Morrison

I was once again reminded last week how much stressful things can affect animals... especially animals who have the tendency to want to make sad or difficult things better for us. Dogs have a bigger problem with this than cats do... cats tend to let things roll off of their fur without too much sinking in... that's just who they are. But occasionally I will find a kitty who does carry battle scars from the physical/emotional ills around them.

Dogs now, are another matter. Since they love us so much and want to please us, they very willingly take on our stresses and sorrows, our aches and pains, in order to help us feel better. As you might have guessed, this is not good for them.

I have had many people ask me to talk to their animals because their pet's personalities have changed or their pets are doing strange things or seem to have pain in their hips, backs; etc. In talking with these pets, I generally find that these changes, aches and pains and strange behaviors are a result of something stressful going on in their homes. Maybe their human has lost their job, maybe someone has died or moved away or suddenly become ill. The bottom line is, whatever affects us as human beings, affects our pets. And our pets do not have the ability or the sophistication to adjust and work through these difficulties. We need to help them.

The first step is to recognize stress in your pet. Any change in eating, sleeping or playing patterns can be a tip-off. If you dog starts limping all of a sudden, especially if you have just started walking differently because of a leg or a foot injury, this should alert you to something going on with Fido. If you see your pet exhibiting strange behavior; ie. licking a lot, hiding from you, following you more than usual, you need to start asking yourself "what's going on with me that might be causing FiFi to act like this?" You may find that you have been somewhat depressed or anxious about something. Your pet is taking on some of the same things you're feeling. Sometimes it's because they want to take some of the burden away from you, sometimes it's simply a reaction to the negative energy they feel coming off of you. Either way, they need our help.

What do we do about it? First, we must figure out what's going on with us... only then can we hope to be of assistance to them. Once we've done that, we can start helping our pets to shed their anxieties and worries about us by talking to them, reassuring them through our thoughts and actions and getting back to our normal routines. It may take a while, but if we want our pets to be happy and healthy again, we need to be consistent and persistent. They will love us all the more for it.

Natural Pet Care - Holistic Treatments For Your Pet

By Robert D Hawkins

Natural pet care is made up of a number of holistic treatment segments with the basic message being to look at the big picture on the way to achieving both short and long-term health. This approach to natural pet care takes into account such things as whether or not your pet is getting the proper nutrition, finding out whether certain factors might be influencing your pets stress level, and determining whether environmental toxins could be contributing to illness or disease.

The holistic practitioners oath is built around the premise of doing no harm first, while taking steps to enable your pets body to heal itself and fend off disease by strengthening immune system function through non-chemical means.

This common sense approach to veterinary medicine will in itself help to avoid overuse of or misuse of many drugs including steroid, antibiotics, vaccinations, and other treatments.

While initially this may not seem like such as big deal research tells us that the overuse of antibiotics is creating a who new strain of super-bugs. One example would be in the area of pet urinary tract infections where the condition is now becoming chronic almost 50 percent of the time due to antibiotic use and misuse.

Another example would be steroids to treat bone and joint diseases that only mask the symptoms potentially speeding cartilage deterioration. On the other hand, a holistic approach consisting of glucosamine, chiropractic care, and some common sense lifestyle changes might actually be able to reverse the condition and improve your pet quality of life.

The holistic pet practitioner will always be asking "why" and working from there. Conversely, my experience with conventional veterinarian medicine tells me the focus will be more about short-term treatment worrying about why later, if at all.

Don't get me wrong I am not against conventional veterinary medicine as I have many friends in the field who are both really smart and caring but in order for true healing to take place a balance must be struck between natural pet care and other forms of medicine.

There will be times when even the most natural health minded pet parent must rely on the skills of conventional veterinary medicine with complementary medicine only playing a supporting role.

Examples would be in cases of severe trauma, certain types of infections, and blockages of the urinary track which require immediate action.

For example if a struvite or calcium stone/urolith was the reason for the urinary tract blockage a conventional approach might be necessary to remove it, possibly including surgery. Once removed and urine flow is restored then a holistic approach to diet and wellness would be an excellent preventative path moving forward.

Another example would be if a severe bacterial infection of the urinary tract required antibiotic treatment then a holistic approach to diet, exercise, stress reduction, in combination with a homeopathic urinary tract tonic would be an excellent natural way to proceed in hopes of avoiding chronic infection requiring a lifelong regime of low dose antibiotics.

In conclusion, natural pet care involving holistic treatments for your pet is wide-ranging including behavior modification; herbal medicine; homeopathy; vitamin, mineral, and supplement therapy; veterinary chiropractic; and even acupuncture.

The truth is you don't need to be on board with all the complementary pet treatment methods above to embrace a holistic treatment approach for your pet, or pets, only have the desire to ask "why", find the root cause of the problem, and make natural choices to cure and prevent re-occurrence.

Robert D. Hawkins is an indepedent researcher and enthusiastic consumer advocate for natural pet health.
To discover more about holistic natural treatments for your pet.
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Look For Discount Pet Supplies And Enjoy The Shopping!

By Layla B Holtermann

It is in a persons' nature to be fond of animals and have a liking to them. Who could resist them? They are cuddly and they are the best companion a person can have. They are even better to be with because they do not argue and annoy you. The point is that we enjoy having them around and most of the time, people consider them as family and they will never mind having another mouth to feed. It is just that, the world is experiencing recession and a lot of businesses are suffering, which is why they tend to increase the prices of the products and the services they are trying to provide. But there are also stores that could offer low prices, and you would surely love the discount pet supplies.

To look for cheap pet products you need to learn where to look for them. These past few decades, pet supply manufacturers are increasing by the dozen, leaving pet owners with a lot of options for purchase. Of course, not all companies promise inexpensive products, but there are many in your community who can give lesser prices for the same benefit. Every pet owner will agree that these domesticated animals must have the same level of care just like what a normal family member is treated.

There are a lot of pet supply stores for sure in your area that can give you low prices. You just need to ask and learn about them. Today, because of the internet, you can have even more options. There are stores that operate online, which can give cheap prices as well and you can have your purchase delivered right at your doorstep. Although you cannot compromise with online shopping networks, they make sure that you also get fair and great deals. That is how they take in customers.

It is also better if you buy in bulk, because that way, you can save money in the future. If you like visiting the local pet supply store other than visiting online, then learn how to ask for a compromise with the owner. Often times they would give you big discounts especially when you buy in bulk.

Owning a pet means you have to be responsible with the situation you have put yourself into. As much as any pet owner would want, cheap pet supplies are just around the corner. Always remember, if you have got the chance, look for pet supplies that offer discounted products and learn how to compromise, because it would surely save you a great deal of money!

The author writes for http://www.petshop-online.com.au/ which provides information regarding discount pet supplies.

Christmas Gifts for Pets - What Your Dog and Cat Really Want

By Sandy A Stone

Trying to decide on a Christmas gift for that special pet in your life? Through years of successful, and some not so successful, gift giving to my dogs and cats I offer you my list on what has resulted in happy responses from my buddies each and every time. This list it not full of fancy gadgets, widgets, or some less than tasteful doggie or kitty outfits. But I have found that buying for my dogs and cats is no different than buying for another loved one, such as a friend or family member. I always try to keep in mind what the pet receiving the gift enjoys doing or what his special likes are and then give the gift accordingly. I sometimes have to remind myself that I am buying the gift for my pets, not for myself. When I do this I find myself putting back those reindeer antlers, Santa hats or silly sweaters, and instead look for a gift I know they'll love.

1. The gift of time. Without a doubt, the one thing our pets enjoy the most is simply being with us. But our busy schedules sometimes may not afford our pets the time they need or would like to have with us. Our amazing dogs and cats just want to share as much of our lives with us as possible, so for their Christmas present, plan an entire day just around the two of you full of activities that are all centered on your pet. If you are planning for a dog, your day might include time in a park or walking a trail, playing fetch or going for a ride. Then after your outdoor activity give your dog a massage and brush his coat. It's suggested that snacks and dinner include all of his favorite flavors. If your pet is a cat, you might want to spend time having them chance a laser pointer, or tie their favorite toy to the end of a string and then play with them, and then play some more. Many cats just love to snuggle and be petted for endless hours, often falling asleep in your arms. But however you plan the day, the ultimate gift you are giving is "quality" time with your pet. This is a gift that cannot be matched. It will strengthen the bond you already have and both of you will thoroughly enjoy the time.

2. The gift of comfort. Providing comfort to your pet is a key element in providing for their basic needs. A heated dog bed or heated cat bed is a wonderful gift for your pet. There's nothing like the soothing comfort of warmth to make a pet sleep well and wake happy. No matter the age of your pet, they all enjoy the warmth of a heated pet bed. If you have an elderly pet, the warmth will provide special relief to sore or achy joints and muscles. The warmth will relax the muscles and stimulate blood circulation, thus providing pain relief.

3. The gift of "special" food treats. Favorite or special foods always make a great pet present. For dogs, traditionally, flavored raw-hides or hickory smoked beef bones make nice gifts. As do tuna and salmon flavored treats for your cats. I was one of the many that use to make these purchases for my pets for Christmas. But I finally asked myself, why not go all out and provide them a feast they would normally never receive. So I did, and still do. I grill each of my dogs a small T-bone steak for their Christmas dinner. I know you are probably saying, 'what!' Are you crazy?! But the steak is about the same price as a toy or a rawhide, and it is their once a year treat that also gives them a bone to chew on for hours. Some years, I grill them boneless chicken thighs instead, and they enjoy these just as much. Of course, make sure you do not use any seasonings when preparing the food. For your kitty, why not buy a small, fresh piece of salmon or tuna. Prepare it with no seasonings, and I promise you your cat will be licking her lips all day long. Toys will be bought and received throughout the year, but give them a Christmas meal they will not forget.

It's my philosophy that dogs and cats would prefer a personalized gift tailored to their likes and dislikes. So whatever gift you decide on, it's not necessary to think it needs to come in a packaging hanging from a hook in a pet department. Dog gift ideas or cat gift ideas, just need to come from your heart and usually involve a piece of your time.

To read more about this topic and many other pet care articles, blogs and tips, go to Pet Crates and More at http://www.petcratesandmore.com. Looking for a heated dog bed, heated cat bed, pet playpen, cat or dog crate or that perfect pet product; go tohttp://www.petcratesandmore.com for some terrific items and ideas. With more than 20 years of management experience, Sandy Stone blended her passion for animals with her business acumen and started, Pet Crates and More, a business offering products aimed at providing comfort for your pets

Plastic Dog Crates and Cat Crates Are Essential in a Pet Emergency Kit

By Sandy A Stone

Emergencies can come in a variety of ways, whether it is by a force of nature, or a personal event. But however they come, emergencies ultimately touch every family. Therefore, my family and I have always felt it prudent and wise to have an emergency plan so that we are better able to handle the situation whenever it should arise. Since my dogs and cats have always been important family members, our plan includes them, along with their own emergency kit. No matter what, our pets are coming with us. I figure that if it is not safe enough for my family to stay, it certainly is not going to be safe enough for my pets. In an emergency, minds will be racing and it will be nearly impossible to think of everything you might need. So a well developed list of "must have" pet items is a good idea. I have these items packed inside of a waterproof plastic tote and labeled as "Pet Emergency Kit". All the family members know where it is, and I periodically check the kit to make sure it has not been cannibalized since the last time I looked through it. Below are the items I keep ready.

1. Sturdy carriers or crates for transport. The first purchase I made was a plastic dog crate and cat crate for each pet. This is the best way to ensure your pets will be transported safely and securely, and unable to escape from the vehicle. When there is a crisis, your pets will sense any tension or concern from the family and this will cause them to become nervous or anxious. If pets are not confined to a carrier there is a risk that in their nervous state, they could run from the car. A plastic pet crate is the best solution if you are looking for durability and maximum safety. Plastic crates are also stack-able in the vehicle allowing you to optimize space. As a note, make sure you secure the crate that is in the top position. When purchasing your crate you want to make sure it is large enough to allow the dog or cat to sit or stand and still have about 2-3" of head room. It should also be large enough to allow your pet to turn around and lie down.

2. Blanket or bedding for each crate. I have placed a blanket in every crate. If time permits, you can place your pet's favorite blanket inside of the crate. Your pet needs to be comfortable in the crate in order to reduce stress. For an emergency kit I have chosen a blanket, since blankets can also be use for providing warmth.

3. Pet food. I place a week's worth of dry pet food in the kit. Canned food can be used if that is your pet's preference. I prefer dry pet food since it is easy to open and store. If you choose to use the can food, don't forget to pack a manual can opener. I suggest you rotate the food about once every 8-12 weeks.

4. Water for your pet. I pack a one week supply of water for each pet. Under normal temperature conditions, I plan about one ounce of water per one pound of body weight per day. So if you have a 10 lb pet you should pack 16 oz of water per day. Of course, if it is hot, consumption would be greater. I also pack an extra gallon of water as a cushion for consumption.

5. Food and water bowls. Enough for all your pets.

6. Pet Medications. If your pet is taking medication, I suggest packing a 10 day to 2 week supply. If you are in an emergency situation, it may be difficult to obtain their medication so packing more than a week's worth is recommended. Remember to rotate the medication, just like the food, so it does not spoil.

7. Sturdy leashes and extra collars or harnesses.

8. ID Tags. My pets wear ID tags and I strongly recommend them. If you should become separated from your pet the ID tag will play a critical role in reuniting the two of you.

9. Litter box and enough litter for a week.

10. Sanitation. I pack a large box of plastic garbage bags. These have multiple purposes, but one will be to collect all of your pet's waste. I also pack a large bottle of hand sanitizer, liquid soap and disinfectant.

11. Toys and treats. Being placed in unfamiliar surroundings will cause your pets to be anxious. Toys and some of their favorite treats will help to calm their nerves.

12. Basic First Aid Kit. I pack a basic first aid kit for my pets. It includes a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, anti-bacterial ointment, iodine, gauze, stick to itself wrap, first aid waterproof adhesive tape and liquid bandage. Your vet would be able to provide you with a complete list of first aid items.

13. Pet Photos. If the unthinkable happens, and you become separated from your pet, the photos could be used for Lost Posters and can help to prove ownership.

We all hope that we are never faced with a situation that would cause us to have to evacuate our home. However, I would rather plan for the worse and hope for the best, than be caught off-guard in a serious situation in which our treasured pets may suffer. With preparations, all family members, including your pets will stay happy and healthy.

To find that perfect plastic pet crate or to read more about this topic and many other pet care articles, blogs and tips, go to Pet Crates and More at http://www.petcratesandmore.com. Looking for a heated dog bed, heated cat bed, pet playpen, cat or dog crate or that ideal pet product; go tohttp://www.petcratesandmore.com for some terrific items and ideas. With more than 20 years of management experience, Sandy Stone blended her passion for animals with her business acumen and started, Pet Crates and More, a business offering products aimed at providing comfort for your pets.

Sick Dog or Cat? Steps For At Home Veterinary Care

By Dr Andrew Jones, DVM

If your pet is sick, there are several reasons why you should care for him at home. If your dog or cat is in serious distress, or has not eaten or consumed water in 24 hours, then you should first have a veterinary exam. But if you are unable to afford a veterinary exam, or you are more willing to be involved in your dog or cats care, then consider the following suggestions.

Why care for your dog or cat at home? Your home is comfortable for your pet, and free of the stress and anxiety of being in a veterinary clinic. Barking dogs, strange people, and unusual smells are not conducive to healing.

At times you can provide superior nursing care to what is offered in veterinary clinics. They are busy places, and your veterinarian can only spend so much time with your pet. You can offer a range of treatments not usually available at a veterinarian. You can give natural and alternate forms of treatment. You will often save money - in some cases, this can mean hundreds of dollars. And perhaps most importantly, you can avoid the serious side effects of many of the traditional medications.You and your pet both win. You will heal your pet at home, and in doing so you will greatly increase the bond you have with your pet. This deeper emotional connection will make your life more enjoyable and help keep your pet healthy.

Nursing Care

Comfortable Bedding
Every sick pet needs to be comfortable. Ensure that big dogs have lots of padding, especially if they have difficulty moving.

Quiet environment, but not Too quiet
All sick pets need a quiet area. Place their bed out of the main traffic area, but not so far away that they are isolated. They need regular contact.

Keep the area clean
Your pet may have difficulty getting up and going to the bathroom, and may soil himself. Change the blankets or towels frequently.

Eating

Eating problems
Most sick pets will not eat for 24 hours, and that should not be a concern. If your pet has still not eaten after 24 hours, that is a serious cause for concern - especially in cats.

There are many simple things that you can do to stimulate your pet's appetite.

Hand feeding
The simple act of feeding with your hand - this will often work.

Warm up the food
When the food is warmer, it is more appetizing, and it is easier for your dog or cat to smell it. If it smells good, they will often eat.

Pet your pet
The simple act of stroking your pet will stimulate positive feelings in your pet and often cause them to begin eating.

If your pet has gone more than 48 hours without eating, he may need force feeding, and you have a few options. You can pick up high calorie liquid nutrition such as 'Hills Prescription Diet a/d' or 'Eukanuba Maximum-Calorie'. You can also make your own high calorie food. I have included an example of a diet below.

Home Pet Nutrition Booster
1/2 cup cooked turkey or chicken
1/4 cup of whole milk
1/4 cup of rice
400 mg calcium
1 One-A-Day Multivitamin
1 tbsp flax oil

Mix this well in a blender or food processor.
Feed 1/2 to 1 cup per day to small pets, and increase proportionally. In some cases, you will have to syringe feed - give frequent, small amounts.

Drinking / Dehydration

It is of utmost importance for your pet not to become dehydrated.

The Skin
The first test for dehydration is 'tenting' the skin. Pinch the skin between your pet's shoulder blades and see how quickly it springs back. It should go back in less than 5 seconds. If the skin tent is prolonged, then your pet is dehydrated.

The Eyes
Your pet's eyes will be sunken into their head. Specifically, the eyes recede into the eye socket. It is often seen with dehydrated cats.

Capillary Refill
Your pet's gums are the best indicator of dehydration. Lift your pet's lips to expose the gums (pink tissue above the teeth). Place your index finger on the gums and press your finger flat to the gum. This temporarily squeezes blood in that spot out of the small blood vessels (capillaries). When you lift your finger, the blood should return in less than 2 seconds. This response will be delayed in a dehydrated pet.

Gum moisture
The gums often feel dry and tacky in a dehydrated pet. When you pull your index finger away from the gums, it should feel wet, and easily slide away. In a dehydrated pet, your finger will stick to the gums.

Possible solutions

Ice Cubes
Some dogs will readily lick ice cubes when they are dehydrated, even if they are reluctant to drink water. Float the ice in their water bowl.

Rehydration with a Syringe
Pets that are more severely dehydrated will benefit from additional electrolytes. 'Pedialyte' is an oral electrolyte re-hydration supplement for children. A needle-less syringe or a turkey baster works well. Insert the tip into the center of your pet's mouth. Tilt his head back, hold his mouth closed and squirt in the fluid.

A safe rule of thumb is to give 30 ml (2 tablespoons) per 10 lbs of weight every hour.

Bathing and Cleaning

Bathing
You do not want to subject a very ill pet to unnecessary baths, but when they become fouled with vomit or diarrhea, they will feel much better after a bath.
I would advise using a mild oatmeal-based shampoo, drying well with a towel to ensure that he does not get cold, and a blow dryer.

Cleaning
Many diseases will cause discharge from the various body openings:

The Nose
Keep the nose clear of plugs or secretions. Compress the end of the nose with a warm cloth to loosen up the secretions before you try and wipe them. It helps to keep the secretions off by covering the end of the nose with Vaseline.

The Eyes
Crusts and secretions often form in the corner of the eyes. Apply a warm cloth compress to loosen the secretions and make it easier to remove. Often this is secondary to eye infections, and you may find the best result using infusions of 'Eyebright'. This is discussed in detail under the section on Eye Infections.

The Ears
They are often infected in dogs, less commonly in cats. The easiest way to keep debris from building up is to clean the ears once weekly - one way is a homemade vinegar solution. Instill it directly into the ear canal, massage the base of the ear to allow the solution to work its way in, then wipe the excess out with a cotton ball.

Gently pull the ear flap over the head and drop the vinegar solution into the lowest opening of the ear canal. Gently massage the ear area to help work the solution deeper into the ear canal. If there is enough medication in the ear, you will just begin to hear a 'squishing' noise as you massage.
If the ears are very inflamed, then it's best to apply a soothing topical lotion first. Calendula and Aloe Vera are both effective in decreasing the inflammation.

Having a sick dog or cat is especially concerning, and if you are at all concerned I always urge you to first have a veterinary exam. If you lack the funds to see your veterinarian though, there are a number of things that you can do at home for your pet. You can provide nutrition in the way of force feeding and you can syringe in water to stave off dehydration. You can keep your pet comfortable with proper bathing and cleaning, ultimately helping them heal at home.

How Effective Are Joint Supplements For Pets With Arthritis?

By Dr Ellen Schmidt

Over the last decade the use of nutritional supplements and vitamins for humans has increased tremendously, as the American population ages continuously. Recently, a radio show discussed that people in the US spend more on their pets than pet owners in any other nation would and one thing they love to give to their pets are supplements and vitamins. A veterinary study published in The Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association in 2006 mentioned that pet owners give their companion animals in first place nutritional supplements for joint problems and arthritis. On second place come vitamins and essential fatty acids (EFA) to enhance well being and general health.

A very common question pet owners have got is if nutraceuticals actually work and are safe for their pets and animals. Obviously, this cannot be answered adequately in a short article, because there are many factors that need to be considered. However, more general tips can be given. Also, don't forget that there are a few similarities in their effectiveness for humans, too.

Make sure you use products only from manufacturers with an excellent reputation, as they will use high quality ingredients and adhere to quality standards in their production. Therefore, try to avoid products of the cheapest range and always remember that expensive products do not guarantee high quality either. The two most popular supplements for arthritic joint problems, glucosamine and chondroitin, are discussed in more detail in this article.

A study published in 2007 in The Veterinary Journal researched the effectiveness of the treatment of dogs suffering from arthritic joint problems with joint supplements that contained glucosamine and chondroitin. They concluded that during a treatment period of about 8 -10 weeks there was a correlation between the use of supplements, better mobility and decreased pain. Only be aware that as in us humans, not all pets will respond to treatment in the same way and therefore it is a good idea to consult your own veterinarian about this treatment option first.

Chondroitin and glucosamine can be bought and given to your pet separately, but both are necessary components to influence cartilage production positively. On the other side, research did prove that there are far better results when they are administered together. This is the reason you find usually both ingredients in a supplement. It is also important to think about possible side effects and the duration of treatment with a supplement.

Always get the advice of your veterinarian before you start to give your pet any medication or supplement. Joint supplements that contain chondroitin and glucosamine normally do not cause side effects in pet animals, but sometimes problems in the digestive tract, such as vomiting or diarrhea can occur if you start with the highest recommended dosage. Therefore your vet will most likely start with the lowest effective dosage.

Most animal patients are fine to remain on joint supplements for arthritic conditions life long. Of course, there will be always exceptions, but your veterinarian will be able to give advice on how to introduce any supplement, adjust the dosage appropriately and monitor this long term treatment accordingly.

Sometimes, a balanced multivitamin supplement may help to enhance joint health and reduce symptoms, such as swelling. Well known components such as vitamin C for example, can help to get inflammation in joints better under control. Best is to get professional advice and do some research to get an even better knowledge about nutraceuticals and supplements for your animal companions.

If you find the article about pet supplements and joint support helpful, you may also be interested in further reading on Dr Ellen's website http://www.pet-health-pro.com, where you can find further interesting topics about pet health, veterinary medicine and veterinary acupuncture.