Tuesday, November 11, 2014

With Thanks To All Who Serve Our Country on Veteran's Day


Today is Veteran's Day and a time to remember all of the men, women and canines who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. 

Monday, November 10, 2014

Have You Walked Your Dog Today?


A new study from the University of Liverpool has recommended that the well-being of both  pets and their owners can benefit from education and pet-friendly facilities. During the study, it was found that an estimated 40 percent of dog owners do not walk their pets, which could be a contributing factor to dog obesity. Canine obesity can have the same serious health consequences as people (diabetes, heart disease and joint issues). It is also believed, obese owners may be more likely to have obese dogs, perhaps because they are less likely to exercise their dog, or less able to recognise obesity. The study found the two main reasons people were not walking their dogs were: not being informed on how much was needed and having limited access to dog friendly areas. Walking is a great form of exercise and can be beneficial for you and your pet.

Here are the findings from the study 

  • People who did not have access to high quality areas that support dog walking (dog parks that allow dogs off leash and provide waste disposal facilities, for example), were much less likely to walk with their dog. People were just more motivated to walk when the area was more conducive. 
  • Many pet owners did not have the knowledge of how much exercise their pet really needed (150 minutes of physical activity a week is recommended) , or the the health benefits that could be obtained from walking your furry friend.  A coordinated effort to educate pet owners could have a great impact, the study showed that those that were aware, were much more likely to walk their dogs.
  • The stronger the dog-owner bond,  the more likely they were to take them on regular walks.
  • Anxiety over their pet's behavior also had an impact on how often people would take their pets out. Training your pet to be a good citizen is always important, but it could also lessen this fear and make it a fun time for all.
Saturday, November 8, 2014

Holistic Treatments For Demodectic Mange


Mange is a parasitic skin disease caused by microscopic mites.  The most common in dogs is Demodectic mange, it is  also known as  "demodex" or "red mange". It causes lesions , beginning on the head and face.  All dogs (and humans) have mites-- they are passed from mother to pup. Usually they cause no problem or irritation, but in young pups (less than twelve to eighteen months of age) and those pets with compromised immune systems, the condition can become problematic. 

Symptoms
Your dog may develop a few (less than 5) isolated lesions, referred to  as "localized mange" or they may have generalized mange, in which case, there are more than 5 lesions over their entire body, which would require more aggressive treatment.

  • Hair loss  begins around the muzzle, eyes, and other areas on the head
  • Crusty
  • Red skin 
  • Lesions may or may not be itchy
  • A greasy or moist appearance  (mites prefer to live in the hair follicles, so in most cases, hair loss is the first noted sign)
  • Often a secondary bacterial infection - which can result in a fever, lose their appetite, and become lethargic.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by performing a skin scraping, in which case, the mites can be seen with the aid of a microscope. If a larger than normal numbers of Demodex mites is found in skin scrapings, it confirms the diagnosis.

Older dogs diagnosed with demodectic mange should be screened for certain other diseases such as Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, cancer, and heartworm disease. Nutritional history and any history of treatment with corticosteroids or other immune-suppressing drugs should be noted.

Treatment
The localized form of demodectic mange is usually treated with topical medication. The generalized form requires more aggressive treatment using special shampoos and dips, along with oral medication. If a secondary skin infections is present it could require antibiotic therapy. Dogs with skin infections often have very red, inflamed skin. This is the source of the term "red mange."

Holistic treatments are a crucial part of treating Demodectic mange.  It involves supporting the immune system and treating the lesions.   Most of the time, dogs that have demodectic mange in puppyhood will continue to have a compromised immune system in adulthood, so using supplements can help to strengthen their immune function.

Supplements that can help:

  • Amazing Omegas - To improve skin and coat...a powerhouse of omega-3 nutrients (essential fatty acids)
  • Power Probiotic - Powerful immune support. Supports digestion and overall good health (great for all pets!) 
  • Silver Support - can be used topically on any type of irritation of inflammation--even in the most sensitive area s. Just watch as this miracle formula helps to heal the skin.

Feeding a raw food diet can also be beneficial as the fresh nutrients provide enzymes and the food is highly digestible, thereby reducing allergy symptoms.

Author:  Susan Blake Davis
Originally Posted 11/8/2014
Updated:  2/2/2024

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Ear Infections in Cats



Although, ear infections are much more common in dogs than in cats, cats can get them too.  (If you have a dog that is getting chronic ear infections, yeast and allergies are typically the cause.)  Some of the signs that could indicate your cat has an ear infection include:
  • Scratching or pawing at their ear 
  • Shaking or tilting of the head in the direction of the painful ear
  • Black or yellowish discharge
  • Redness or swelling of the ear flap or ear canal
  • Waxy buildup on or near the ear canal
  • Discharge from the ear that resembles coffee grounds (a symptom of ear mites)
  • Strong odor
  • Hearing loss
  • Loss of balance or disorientation 
Natural Treatments For Cats with Ear Infections

The first step is to determine the underlying cause of the ear infection.   If your vet determines that your cat has ear mites or a yeast or bacterial infection, these can be treated with anti-parasitic, anti-fungals or antibiotics, as appropriate. These all come in ointment or ear drop form. However, since ear infections can frequently return, it's important to use a natural, holistic approach to support your cat's immune system.  Using a few natural remedies along with diet changes can help prevent ear infections from returning and build a strong immune system.

         Home Remedies For Cats With Ear Infections

  • Power Probiotic- essential for your pet's good health. Supports digestion, helps fight infection and enhances overall immunity.  Very important if your cat has taken any antibiotics.

                                                     
                                                                   Immune Support Kit


Immune Support Kit - Contains three tasteless liquid formulas:  Silver Immune Support, NotaSAN and QuentaSAN drops.  These three remedies can provide fast relief for your cat's stomatitis and are easy to administer.  Save on the package price when you buy all three natural remedies together.  

  • Silver Immune Support For Pets--  Silver Immune Support is an all-natural, easy to use remedy to help your pet recover from a bacterial infection or viral flare-up.
  • NotaSAN Drops Natural homeopathic formula that fights infections. First line of defense for infections in cats. Can be used safely long-term to prevent recurrences. 
  • QuentaSAN Drops- Excellent for fighting infections, viruses, and immune support.  Use along with the NotaSAN on alternating nights for best results.
Diet Changes Can Help
A change in diet can also make a big difference as allergies and yeast can weaken a cat's immune system. Avoid dry food as the high carbohydrate content can contribute to yeast overgrowth.  Please include your cat's diet on the order form at checkout.  The AskAriel nutritionist will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with the product directions.

What causes ear infections in cats?


Parasites: The ear mite, Otodectes cynotis, is a common cause of ear problems, especially in kittens. 
Allergies: Allergies, either to food or environmental, may have ear problems.  It actually can be one of the first signs of a pet's allergies.  Allergies can also lead to secondary infections with bacteria or yeast. Treating the allergies is key to ending a cycle of allergy induced ear infections.
Bacteria and Yeast:  Under normal conditions, your cat has a good defense system to keep the ear healthy. However, if the ear environment changes due to allergies, hormone abnormalities, or moisture, the bacteria and yeast  can grow quickly, bacteria and yeast love to grow in warm, dark places.  
Ear Conditions: Wax buildup in the ear canal and thick hair in the ear canal
Foreign Bodies:  Especially if you have a cat who goes outside, be sure to routinely check their ears for foreign objects.
Trauma: Injury or self-inflicted trauma to the ear (from scratching ) can lead to infections.
Hormonal Abnormalities and Other Health ConditionsDeficiencies or excesses of various hormones can result in skin and ear problems, as will immune system disorders.

There are many reasons cats can get ear infections. A holistic approach using a few immune support supplements along with a diet change can help your cat feel much better.






Saturday, November 1, 2014

Holiday Safety Tips for Pets

                                                                halloween kitty


1) Candy, gum and diet candies can be toxic to pets, especially  if they contain Xylitol.   Doublecheck before you leave your home and at bedtime to make sure that the candy and gum have been put away in a secure cabinet.

2) Watch out for  burning candles and cords.  Pets can easily knock them over, starting a fire.  Electrical cords and lighting can be chewed on.   Also if you are cooking with a gas stove, it's easy to accidentally leave the stove on.

3) Doorbells and guests can be scary to pets.    Even a very calm dog might snap if a guest in dark clothing comes through the door.  If your pet is skittish, please keep them on a leash for their protection and your guests.

4)  We all get busy when guests are coming over, but even if it is earlier than usual, try to ensure your pets are fed before guests arrive.