Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Feline Hyperthyroidism: Supplement Can Provide Kidney Support

Delilah

Feline hyperthyroidism can affect kidney function in cats.  Cats with hyperthyroidism should take kidney support supplements as the feline hyperthyroidism can mask the extent to which the kidney are affected.

Dear Susan,

"We just wanted to share with you our wonderful success with Renelix.  Our cat Delilah is hyperthyroid and late this summer she was diagnosed with slightly high kidney levels.  We started her on the Renelix immediately, per your instructions.  Subsequently, her blood tests revealed that all of her kidney values had dropped to within normal range.  It was miraculous!  And we are so grateful to you for all your help!  Any of your clients who are on the fence about this product should purchase it without hesitation.  It really works and we don't have to worry about giving our pet a lot of prescription meds that may have harmful side effects.  Thank you again, you are awesome!  Delilah sends lots of purrs and kisses!"


Suzanne Sucec
 Joanne Sucec
Pennsylvania 2013
Tuesday, December 17, 2013

VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital Offering Holistic Pet Nutritionist Consultations To Improve Pet Health



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VCA Press Release

ORANGE COUNTY, CA. – December 11, 2013 - Premier veterinary hospital, VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital, is now offering pet nutrition consultations to help pet owners improve their pet’s health.  “Pet nutrition is an important part of overall wellness and we want to help our clients increase their pet’s longevity,” says veterinarian and Medical Director Dr. Christine Priest.  With an increasing number of FDA recalls on pet foods and treats, pet owners are seeking more guidance from their veterinarians regarding the best foods to feed their pets.

As part of VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital’s commitment to their clients’ pets, the veterinary hospital has welcomed Susan Blake Davis, Certified Clinical Nutritionist to their staff.  Because many cats and dogs develop health conditions requiring a special diet that the veterinarian prescribes, VCA Mission Viejo is offering pet nutrition services to help pet owners to better care for the special needs of these pets.  While commercially prepared diets are available, some pet owners may prefer homemade alternatives as some pets may have more finicky appetites.

Susan Blake Davis, of ‘Ask Ariel, Your Pet Nutritionist,’ has extensive experience working with cats and dogs that have food intolerance and allergies resulting in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other digestive problems.  Cats and dogs with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can have vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and decreased appetites.  “Eliminating potential food allergens from the diet can make a significant difference in a pet’s energy and quality of life,” says Davis.  Davis works closely with pet owners to help them find new ways to pamper their cats and dogs with “safe” healthy foods that help the pets thrive and reduce digestive problems.

Beginning in January 2014, Davis will be available for pet nutrition consultations at VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital. To schedule an appointment, pet owners are encouraged to contact the hospital directly.  VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital is a full service veterinary hospital offering primary and advanced care veterinary services, as well as boarding, grooming and dental services.  The two veterinarians Dr. Christine Priest and Cheryl Wood, along with the friendly professional staff, are actively engaged with their patients, dedicating time and resources to ensure they receive the utmost in quality pet care.
Media Contact:

Denise Kahler, Hospital Manager at VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital (http://www.vcahospitals.com/mission-viejo), can be reached via phone at 949-582-1220. VCA Mission Viejo is located at 26852 Oso Parkway in Mission Viejo, California.
Monday, December 16, 2013

Colostrum Helps Vomiting in Cats

Sebastian
"Our cat Sebastian had problems with severe allergies this year, and was vomiting almost daily at one point.  We started him on Colostrum, per your instructions, in addition to Notatum, Quentans, and Gastro-ULC.  The change in him has been miraculous!  Not only has the vomiting stopped, but he has started gaining weight and is playing like a kitten again.  And he loves his Colostrum!  We would highly recommend all of these products after having a Consultation with you.  You give so much helpful information.  Both of our cats are happy and healthy, and it's largely because of you!  In many cases we've had no success with the traditional Veterinary approach, but notice an immediate improvement when using your holistic products.  And no nasty side effects either!  Sebastian sends his love and thanks you for your purrfect advice.  And my sister and I cannot thank you enough for all the assistance you give us to keep our babies happy and healthy!"
Suzanne Sucec
Joanne Sucec
Pennsylvania  2013
     
Colostrum for Pets has been shown in research studies to enhance the digestive system and immune function. If your pet is losing weight due to malabsorption, Colostrum for Pets can help repair inflamed villi in the intestinal tract. Very helpful for repairing the intestinal lining.  Use for pets that have had bouts of worms and parasites (especially giardia).
Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Memorial for Two Cherished Dogs

                               Guy Richardson with Sparky and Kona

It is so hard to lose a beloved pet but especially difficult during the holidays.  Guy and Jimmy said goodbye to their precious Sparky on Wed. November 27, 2013 which was the day before Thanksgiving.  Here is Guy Richardson's wonderful recollections of his two cherished dogs which are pictured with him.  

Kona – Born on Halloween 1994, we discovered Kona at age 7 weeks in a pet store on December 26 – the only puppy that did not get sold for Christmas. So he became our best Christmas present ever. Kona  truly enjoyed his role as Chief of Security. Kona was 100% effective; never a break in or burglary. And that bark! There was a front security door that Kona loved to sit near when the front door was open for ventilation. Those coming up the drive couldn’t see Kona behind the security door, but nobody could ignore his bark once he became aware of them. Kona was the most fun Frisbee partner one could ever have. Total enthusiasm retrieving the disc with every throw without ever tiring. Everybody loved watching Kona play Frisbee with his Daddy at the park. And of course the countless hikes. When his Daddy found out from his doctor that hiking was the best workout for him, he began a 3-hike a week regimen that not only got Daddy in shape but allowed for the best bonding ever with his beloved Kona. Kona’s extreme hip dysplasia diagnosed at age 10 slowed him down, but never diminished his love of hiking with Daddy. Even though there may have been some pain involved, he wanted to be on every single hike which kept him in shape up age 15. Kona hiked with his Daddy until about six weeks before his passing in January of 2010.

Sparky –We met Sparky when he was age 7 when the renters across the street got him from the pound. It was love at first sight! We loved Sparky and he loved us – we just knew. Sparky began jumping their fence and coming over to our house. We wound up having cell numbers for everyone that lived over there to notify them when we found Sparky at our house. If we were gone and the front door was open, our dog Kona would be on the other side of the security door and they would commune with each other. That’s when they became buddies; Sparky and Kona really loved each other. Then on February 6, 2007, those neighbors came to our door with Sparky asking if we wanted him because they had to move to an apartment that did not allow pets. We joyously accepted and Sparky’s loving sweetness was ours to enjoy every day. Sparky loved every human he encountered and his sweetness is irreplaceable. Sparky was insistent on sleeping on our bed every night – all 55 pounds of him. He was having it no other way and we could not resist. Sparky and Kona became wonderful hiking buddies when Daddy took them along for hikes three times every week. After we said goodbye to Kona in January 2010, Sparky was diagnosed with Spinal Arthritis in February 2011. Soon after, Sparky needed help getting in the back seat. He’d put his front paws up on the floor board and Daddy would lift him by the rear hips; Sparky then put his front paws up the seat and Daddy moved his rear paws into position on the seat. The last couple of years of his life, Daddy had to have Sparky’s seat belt harness on him so he could lift him in.

Sunday, December 8, 2013

10 Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays




Here are 10 tips to help you and your pet to have a safe and happy holiday season.


  1. Securely anchor your tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury, if a pet is playing.
  2. Make sure  you do not let pets drink tree water out of the stand, as it can be dangerous if ingested.
  3. Try to either elevate the tree or hang ornaments only on the upper most branches, to avoid  broken ornaments that can cause injury. 
  4. Avoid tinsel...pretty, sparkling tinsel is very enticing to pets, but it can cause an obstruction if ingested.
  5. Place candles in a place where they cannot easily be knocked over by an excited pet.
  6. Conceal electrical cords with heavy duty plastic to keep a chewing pet away from danger.
  7. Be sure to keep chocolate away from pets, but be aware that dark chocolate, especially baker’s chocolate, is especially toxic.
  8. Keep the sweet treats like: gum, candy, and breath mints with xylitol (an artificial sweetener) away from pets.  It is extremely toxic. 
  9. Be careful when choosing a gift for your pet.  Dogs have been known to chew up toys, which then cause a blockage and require veterinarian assistance. Instead offer health treats or indestructible toys.
  10. With all the excitement of the season it is important that you give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle.  Pets often become anxious during this time of year. 
Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Best Fish Oil For Pets--Amazing Omegas Heals Dog's Skin Rash

 Mackenzie
"I love your products, VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital staff recommended I try the Amazing Omega oils after several rounds of skin rashes that got infected.  Since giving my dog, Mackenzie, your supplement she’s never had a relapse - keep up the great work!  You’ve won a customer for life!"   J. Ellis, Orange County, CA



Amazing Omega for Pets

Simply the best fish oil available--purity and potency guaranteed! Excellent for joint support, skin and coat and overall good health. Amazing Omegas reduces inflammation throughout the body helping pets with mobility issues and inflammatory conditions.  Unlike most fish oils, Amazing Omegas are packed in glass bottles to prevent potential seepage from toxins in plastic.  The oil is processed in a natural way to ensure it is bioavailable to your pet, thus you don't need to use nearly as much as you might use of other brands. Amazing Omegas contains the highest quality, purest fish oil available on the market.
Monday, December 2, 2013

Great Holiday Gifts For Pet Owners

Great Holiday Gifts for Pet Owners. Need a gift for someone who has everything? Want to buy a gift for a coworker or neighbor who has a cat or dog? Spoil their pet with premium pet supplements that will help their pet feel and look great.  Holistic pet supplements make a special and meaningful gift showing your friend, coworker or family member that you care.

Ask Ariel Holiday Shopping Guide:  Two pet supplements that are great for all pets and you really can't go wrong with Amazing Omegas and Power Probiotic .  These two products make a great gift for all pets and are affordable too.

Amazing Omegas reduces inflammation, makes coats shiny and soft, fights allergies, and helps the fur glisten.  Give the gift of a shimmering holiday coat!

Power Probiotics provides powerful immune and digestion support for overall health and easy to administer!  Lightweight and small--Power Probiotics makes a purrfect stocking stuffer for XMAS!

Do you like to take your best friend with you when you shop? Holiday shopping season is fast approaching and some places welcome pets, which can be really great fun for all.  However, if you have to leave your pet in the car, remember that even in fall and winter, it is a lot hotter in the car than outside.  Pets can get overheated and need water even if it is cold outside.
Sunday, November 24, 2013

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month



Stanley
Indie













Did you know that,  according to the Animal Cancer Foundation, one out of every  four dogs and one out of every five cats will develop cancer at some point in their life?  It is a shocking statistic, but a diagnosis we hear all too often  at AskAriel.com. There are many contributing factors that lead to a pet developing cancer including, genetic predisposition, environmental factors and age ( yes, risk factors go up as your pet gets older).  However, as in humans, the treatment options have expanded over time and may include traditional and holistic protocols, or a combination of  both. Diet and supplements for cat and dog cancer treatment can make a tremendous difference in the quality and longevity of your pet's life.  The Pet Cancer Package  has helped  many cats and dogs to tolerate chemotherapy without interfering with the medications.  Pets have more energy on the Pet Cancer Package which contains many nutrients researched to be helpful for cancer such as green tea, IP-6, carnitine, ginseng, astragalus and more-- all in one convenient package.  Amazing Omegas is essential for all pets with cancer.

Know the Warning Signs of Cancer

Common Signs of Cancer In Pets 
• Difficulty eating or swallowing 
• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow 
• Sores that do not heal 
• Weight loss and/or loss of appetite
• Pet just not acting like himself, behavior changes
• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening 
• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating 
• Persistent lameness or stiffness 
• Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina

Remember, early detection is key and the best way to protect your pet is to watch for the signs above and bring your pet in to the veterinarian for an exam and laboratory testing.
Thursday, November 21, 2013

When Does a Pet Most Need A Probiotic?



When Does a Pet Most Need A Probiotic?
Probiotics have been scientifically proven to benefit all pets, young and old.  However, there are times when a cat or dog especially needs a boost to their immune system.  Here are some examples:

  • Pets that have been on antibiotics (antibiotics kill off the friendly bacteria as well as the bad bacteria
  • Pets with any type of digestive problems (loose stool, constipation, bad breath, vomiting, inappetance, picky eating)
  • Pets that have allergies or who have had a steroid shot
  • Pets with liver or kidney problems
  • Pets with ear infections, urinary tract infections and upper respiratory infections
  • Pets having seizures (seizures are often triggered by allergies)
  • Pets that are eating a raw food diet

Power Probiotic, is a multi-strain probiotic formula, scientifically tested in high heat, guaranteed to survive your pet's stomach acid and easy to administer. Power Probiotic is easy to use---just open the capsule, mix this tasteless powder into your pet's food---it is safe for even the  tiniest pets and is helpful even if a pet is taking multiple medications.
Monday, November 18, 2013

IBD Success Story: 8 Year Old Dog Chloe Finally Gets Better!

 Chloe
8 year old Mini-Schnoodle (Schnauzer/Poodle)
Has IBD and Had Been on Prednisone

Thursday, November 14, 2013 
"Susan, I feel so fortunate to have found you - if you only knew - I’m at a loss for the words every time expressing all the emotions, feelings, relief, peace and happiness as I watch her sit at my feet waiting for her food and if I take too long, hearing her whimper a little “hurry up mom” -- like music to my ears.  Seeing and reading success stories from other people was a draw for me in the pursuit of trying to find REAL help for Chloe.   It is so important to spread the word about how a good diet plays such a vital role in a pet’s well-being and noting how much your supplements help add to enhance that as well. She is currently taking Power Probiotic, Soothing Digestive Relief, Lypozyme, Notatum and the Liver/Gallbladder supplements and has been completely off the steroids.  Sometimes, people are just very skeptical about it all -- but boy what a difference it makes!"    Mary and Chloe, Reside In Virginia

A look back:
Wednesday, August 21, 2013 
Q.    I have an 8 yr old minischnoodle who has IBD.  She has had several bouts over the last 2 years and they are getting progressively worse with each incident.   Can you help???
A.    Yes, absolutely we can help.  There is a lot you can do to solve these problems.  Our nutritionist looked at the diet and thought there are much better options.  Also, you definitely need to get your dog started on our IBD Kit.   Just trying to tackle IBD alone without supplements is nearly impossible.  

Update- Monday, September 23, 2013
"I thought you would be happy to hear how well Chloe is doing.  She is now completely transitioned to the diet you recommended.  She is doing unbelievably/remarkably well!  I couldn't be happier with how she looks, how she's acting/jumping/running around, the look of her stool - normal (first time in her little LIFE!).
I cannot thank you enough - there are no words that could justify/express my gratitude - you've changed Chloe's life and mine.  I know you know how my heart would just break to see her struggle or hurt.  You made such a difference in our lives with your plans, ideas, suggestions and supplements and gave us something we can work with that actually makes a difference and improves the quality of life! "   Mary and Chloe

Update-Thursday, October 10, 2013 
"Hi Susan!  Still doing REALLY good here  - THANKS TO YOU!!  I've just introduced the Liver/Gallbladder supplement to Chloe's diet and we are doing pretty good on the steroid decrease process as well.  Thanks to you, she's her cute little self again - both my husband and I could not be happier with the results we are seeing.  She is now fully transitioned on the diet and she loves it!  We've split her meals a little (as you suggested) - she's very food driven normally - and being on the steroids I guess contributes to that even more so - splitting the meals seems to help.  At 2 to 3 walks a day, she's getting lots of fresh air and exercise too - it is our time and lots of fun.  My God when I think about the situation we were in before contacting you, -- it overwhelms me and brings me to tears because if things had not gotten better I fear I would have been facing the unthinkable!  I'm so amazed by her progress and so very thankful to you for how you changed all that and turned our lives around!"

Does your cat or dog have IBD?  We would love to help.  Learn more about how a natural diet and supplements can help dogs and cats get well from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)




Saturday, November 16, 2013

How Long To Use Pet Supplements For a Dog's Urinary Tract Infection and Struvite Crystals


  
Dear Ask Ariel:   My dog Chelsea was having chronic urinary tract infections--3 infections in 6 months!  She also had struvite crystals.  You recommended that I use a few supplements and make some diet changes.  I have been using the Renelix, Pet UTI Prevention Formula and Power Probiotic for several months now with my dog.  I also made the diet changes you recommended.  My veterinarian just repeated the urine tests. The test results from the last urinalysis shows no crystals. Does this mean she is cured and I can reduce the supplements I currently give her?

Ask Ariel:
So glad Chelsea is feeling so much better! This is a very good question.  Supplements are very different than medications.  Medications treat a problem and when the symptom goes away, you stop the medication.  So for example, you used antibiotics to treat Chelsea's initial infection and once the bacterial overgrowth subsided, you stopped the medication.  However, since there was a high likelihood the bacterial overgrowth could occur again,  we introduced the supplements to try to prevent another infection.  Pet supplements are needed more from a preventative standpoint than medications which work from a treatment perspective.  Pet supplements help the body to heal and when you stop the supplement, the problem can usually return because the body is no longer getting the support it needs.  So for example, if you stop the Renelix, given Chelsea's propensity to get bladder struvite crystals, there is a good chance she will get them again.  Thus, it is best to stay on the supplements to prevent these type of health issues from recurring.
Thursday, November 14, 2013

Watch Your Cat's Litterbox Habits for Signs of Cat Health



Watching your cat's litterbox habits is an important part of monitoring their health.   Sometimes cats will literally  urinate in a place you see in order to get your attention.  While this could be behavioral, it could also be that your cat is trying to tell you something. If you notice that your cat is going outside the litter box, it could indicate that your cat is stressed, or may have a UTI.   If there is diarrhea,  it could be IBD . If at anytime you see blood in the urine, be sure to take your cat to the veterinarian as this could be a sign of an infection. Diet and nutritional supplements such as Power Probiotic, Notatum and Akutur are very helpful (and easy to administer) to cats with a history of urinary tract and bladder infections.

Kitty Litterbox Etiquette:  Helpful Hints for Monitoring Your Cat's Litterbox

  • Be sure to place litterboxes in a place to make your cat comfortable.
  • If you have multiple cats,  have at least one more than the number of cats in the household—more is better. 
  • Keep the litterbox away from noisy appliances as it can make your cat nervous
  •  Keep the litterbox far away from food and water 
  •  If you have multiple stories, be sure there is a litterbox on each floor.


Monday, November 11, 2013

Causes of Urinary Crystals in Cats



Q: I have 2 male cats that have come down with crystals , what causes them and how do I get rid of them and keep them gone?

A: Crystals form when there is an imbalance in the urinary pH.  Different types of crystals form depending upon whether the urine is too acidic or too alkaline.  A raw frozen diet such as the Primal, Instinct or Stella and Chewy's raw frozen rabbit can promote a neutral pH. Grains and carbohydrates can increase the likelihood of infection in susceptible cats so be sure to use a high protein, high moisture diet that is a hypoallergenic protein source.

In addition to a good diet, it is important to use supplements that
1) reduce urinary inflammation-- NotaSAN drops and Akutur drops are very helpful for cats that have multiple urinary tract infections.  .  
2) promote the growth of good “friendly” bacteria in the urinary tract with Power Probiotic
3) clear toxins and sediments from the urinary tract as well as protect the delicate structures of the urinary tract and bladder with Renelix.
Retest your kitty's urine to ensure that the proper pH is maintained. We have had excellent results keeping cats free of urinary crystals when the diet and supplement program is used consistently.









Thursday, November 7, 2013

French Bulldog with Allergies Stops Scratching

Maestro
Maestro


"Dear Susan: 

Our sweet French Bulldog Maestro was scratching his face and tearing his fur out.  He is very sensitive and we didn't want to keep giving him prescription medications.  Benadryl would just knock him out and we wanted our doggie to feel better. We tried several diet changes and a few itch-relief supplements from other brands but nothing worked.  Then, we found AskAriel.  I am happy to report that after using the Pet Allergy & Skin Supplement Package, Maestro started to get better right away.  He loves the Amazing Omegas on his food!  A patch of fur that he kept chewing on is finally growing back.  Thanks for the diet tips too.  We are very happy we found Ask Ariel."
Amy Elder  November 2013
Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Finicky Cats May Have Acid Stomach

"Many cats are a little bit finicky about the textures and smells with their food. If your cat is finicky, one way to keep up their interest is to use alternating flavors, textures and forms of food. Be sure to avoid grains such as wheat, rice, corn and other fillers.  Cats are carnivores and need a high protein diet.   Use different flavors such as lamb, venison and rabbit---sticking with just fish or poultry can lead to food allergies.  Use canned and raw frozen food for best results.

If your kitty is acting extra finicky, be sure to take her to the veterinarian. Finicky eating, accompanied by weight loss in older cats can be a sign of kidney disease.  Kidney disease is very common in senior cats and to help slow the progression of the disease and the picky eating, use Power Probiotic, Gastro ULC and Kidney Terrain Power Probiotic repopulates friendly intestinal flora which supports kidney health and improves digestion.  Gastro ULC contains soothing nutrients to coat the stomach and ease pain which can increase a kitty's appetite.  Kidney Terrain provides nourishment for the kidneys, is easy to use and is good as a preventative for senior cats even if kidney function is still normal.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Dog Daycare: Reducing Stress Can Keep Your Dog Healthy



Dog daycare can be a great option in today's busy lifestyle, but is it right for your pet?  We all face times when we need to be away from our dogs and help is needed.  The options include friends and family, pet sitters, traditional boarding facilities and now dog daycare.
The main benefits of dog daycare are:
  • Less boredom, greatly reduces stress
  • Help with loneliness and the anxiety that loneliness can cause in dogs (including separation anxiety)
  • Socialization with people
  • Exercise and socialization with other dogs
  • Burning off energy can curb destructive behavior vs. in the house when unsupervised
  • Removal of guilt for pet parents who feel badly about leaving their dogs home alone all day
  • Happiness that they are having FUN
There are many daycare facilities available.  If you live in Orange County, we love Dog Ranch Bed and Biscuit.  Some pet hotels offer day play and then cage boarding at night.  Leaving a dog in a cage can cause such distress that it weakens a pet's immune system.  Pets that are stressed can develop digestive disorders and skin infections.  People don't realize that our sweet furry friends can become very stressed which makes them sick.  It is quite common for pets left in cages (especially at veterinary facilities) to come home with illnesses.  Pets, even young pets can develop a variety of health problems so keeping your pet happy will make a big difference.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Halloween and The Black Cat




Halloween brings thoughts of iconic symbols: jack-o-lanterns, ghosts , goblins and black cats. Although Halloween can be a fun and festive time for friends and family it can be especially dangerous time for black cats. Most shelters won’t adopt out a black cat for a few weeks before Halloween in an effort to protect them.  There is a lot of mythology and superstitions about black cats which can make them very vulnerable at this time of year.  To be safe, it is recommended that you keep your kitty inside (even if they enjoy the great outdoors)  for a few weeks leading up to Halloween.  On Halloween night,  make sure your cat is in a safe place, as the noise from trick-or-treaters and doorbells can frighten them.  

Saturday, October 26, 2013

If The FDA Is Concerned About Your Pet's Food, Shouldn't You Be Too?

The FDA has issued a statement regarding concerns about what is really in your pet's food.  The China jerky "issue" is really just the tip of the iceberg.  There is a tremendous amount of food and treats that can be harmful to your pet made here in the USA.  The real problem is the amount of marketing fluff that currently exists convincing pet owners that the cute pet on the label and decorative designs are more important that the actual ingredients.  How many pet owners have actually looked at the ingredients in their pet's food?  This informative article details just a few of the "questionable" ingredients found in pet food.
Friday, October 25, 2013

Halloween Warning For Your Pet



Trick or Treat...Halloween is coming and with it, we need to use extra caution to keep our pets safe. Keeping cats and dogs away from the candy and gum is essential.  Although these may be sweet treats for us, they are not  for your pet. 

Any candy with chocolate can be toxic for pets and so is gum if it contains Xylitol.  Some pets will do anything for a tasty snack, and extra care should be taken as many treats could make them sick.  It is so easy to leave a pack of gum or candy sitting out on the counter or on a car seat.  Xylitol can have fast, fatal consequence, it can cause a drop in blood sugars (acute hypoglycemia) and/or liver failure.    Be sure to keep your candy and gum in a secure location that is inaccessible to your pet.  Also, make sure any  little human goblins are aware of the risk to your pet, so that they don't share a treat that may be dangerous.  This will help ensure that Halloween is a treat for all! 

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Maltese with Gallbladder Disease and Elevated Liver Enzymes


Q: My maltese is 5 years old and last July she had gallbladder surgery due to gallbladder disease. After the surgery,  her liver enzymes were very high. We have been taking her to a specialist that has her on medications and a low fat prescription diet. Her liver enzymes continue to stay high. I don't know what else to do for her and thought I would reach out to you.  If you have a holistic approach that may resolve this issue with her liver, I am willing to try what ever is suggested.

A:  Yes there is a LOT more we can do to help.  You need to look at her diet. Prescription diets contain grains, chemicals and fillers so I would look at more natural alternatives that help a pet's liver to heal.  Here is an article you might find of interest on prescription diets.

Products that would be very helpful for your pup would be:  Special SAMe is a powerful antioxidant, Liver and Gallbladder kit (with, Lypozyme, Power Probiotic, and Liver and Gallbladder supplement) These all-natural supplements are gentle but effective in supporting the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and intestinal tract.. We hope your pup feels better soon
Wednesday, October 23, 2013

FDA Statement Regarding Jerky Treats Making Pets Sick




Yesterday (October 22, 2013)  the FDA made a statement, and issued warnings regarding their ongoing investigation of  consumer complaints regarding jerky pet treats made in China. The treats are made with chicken, duck, sweet potato, and dried fruits.  More than 3600 pets have become sick and nearly 600 pets have died since 2011.  Most of the cases involve dogs (there has been 10 cats) of all breeds, ages and sizes. The pet may become sick within hours or days of having the treats and most suffer gastrointestinal illness and/or kidney and urinary problems.  The FDA stated although extensive testing is being done, a cause has not been determined.

Signs to watch for in your pet include:  decreased appetite, decreased activity level, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption and/or increased urination.  If your pet shows any of these signs, seek veterinarian care right away.

No formal recall has been made, so a list is not available for which brands have been reported.  The FDA is continuing testing and recommends that pet owners whose pet becomes sick after eating the treats should report the complaint to the FDA Safety Reporting Portal .

Safe Treats For Dogs?

Treats are not essential to your dog or cat's nutritional needs.  In fact, we discourage overtreating as it can lead to obesity.  However, it is a good idea if possible to give your dog a light meal mid-day.  This helps to regulate a dog's blood sugar, improves digestion and keeps them from gorging themselves at night.  For dogs, using green vegetables, carrots, sardines or freeze dried "dog food" without grains is optimal.  Stella and Chewys and Instinct both have freeze dried small patties that can be used for lunch or as a mid-day treat.  The Honest Kitchen offers freeze dried haddock filets which are hypoallergenic for dogs.   If you do want to give your dog or cat treats, then be sure to scrutinize the label of ingredients.  To learn more about safe ingredients for pets, please read our article about ingredients on the pet food label.
Friday, October 18, 2013

Healthy and Happy Persian Cats



Dear Ariel:

"I received the AllerEaze.  I gave it to my cat  who has sinus congestion and within 24 hours she was feeling so much better! It’s a wonderful product!   

I have been following the instructions with all the other products (such as Notatum, Quentans, Colostrum)  and  keeping them on the diet you recommended.   These products are truly amazing!  I am so glad I came across your website and ordered these products! Thank you again for the all the support and care you give to your customers and their pets! 

You are wonderful and so are your products!  Thank you, thank you, thank you again for all  your help and your advice!  It’s working!  So glad to see all four of my Persian cats becoming healthy and happy again!"

J. Walker, Houston, Texas  October 2013


Sunday, October 13, 2013

Kids and Pet Safety -- Tips For Introducing Children to New Pets


Kids and pets can be a wonderful combination! However, some caution should be given when children and pets interact.  It is not a good idea to leave a young child unsupervised with an animal. You never know what can happen even with the most trustworthy children and pets.
Here are three more suggestions for introducing children to new pets:

1) Teach your children to always ask first before petting an unknown pet. Pets are like people and made up of different temperaments, some are people lovers and some may be more shy and feel defensive when approached.

2)  After asking if the pet is friendly, teach your child to reach out with their palm facing up and allow the pet to sniff. Then show your children the safe places to pet the cat or dog, such as under the chin, while avoiding the top of the head and tail. This will help the animal not feel threatened.

3) Let the pet approach the child rather than chasing after the pet.   This will ensure a great time is had by all.