Honoring The Animals Who Served In The Military

                                      

On Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. But did you know that animals have also played an important role in military history? Here are some examples of animals that have served in the military:

• Dogs: one of the most commonly known animals used in military operations. They have been utilized for various tasks such as search and rescue, detecting explosives, tracking, and patrol work. Military working dogs (MWDs) are trained to perform specialized tasks and have been deployed in conflicts worldwide.

• Horses: have been used extensively in warfare for centuries, primarily as cavalry mounts and for transport. They provided mobility, speed, and strength on the battlefield. Horses were particularly crucial before mechanized vehicles became prevalent in military operations.

• Pigeons: used as messengers during wars, especially in World War I and World War II. They were trained to carry messages over long distances and served as a reliable means of communication, particularly when other methods were unreliable. 

• Dolphins and Sea Lions: Dolphins and sea lions have been trained by certain navies to assist with tasks such as mine detection and clearance, harbor patrol, and underwater surveillance. Their natural abilities, including exceptional underwater hearing and agility, make them valuable assets for specific naval operations.

These are just a few examples of animals that have served in the military. Their contributions have played significant roles in reconnaissance, communication, transportation, and enhancing the effectiveness of military operations.

How To Get Your Pet To Take A Pill

For most cats & dogs, giving supplements or medication requires some effort. Here are 3 tips to help:

1) Hide the pill in a special food or treat that's only used at pill time. Canned food or baby food usually works pretty well. Even Laughing Cow light spreadable cheese is an option.

2) Open the capsule or crush the pill & mix with water to administer by syringe

3. Open your pet's mouth and place the pill in the very back, massage the throat to make sure it's swallowed.

If you feel good about what you are giving your pet, even the most stubborn pet can come around once they know you are trying to help.

Can Your Pet Benefit From Acupuncture?

 

Has anyone tried acupuncture for yourself or your pet? It can help immensely. Acupuncture for pets is a form of alternative medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on an animal's body. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and aims to promote healing and restore balance in the body. Acupuncture is thought to stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, and release natural pain-relieving substances. It is commonly used in veterinary practice to help manage pain, promote relaxation, and address various health conditions in dogs and cats. Check out the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association website to find a veterinary acupuncturist near you. 

Time Saving Tip For Pet Owners

 Ever forget if you have given your pet a pill? Even the most conscientious pet owner can accidentally forget a pill or accidentally double up. Making pill packs (putting supplements in daily baggies) or using daily pill organizers can be a huge help. Pill organizers can save time by eliminating the need to stop and measure out each dose or try to remember which pills have been given. With just a little planning ahead each week, you can make sure your pet gets the very best care and save a lot of time too!

Know The Signs of Canine Cushing's Disease

As dogs get older, some may start developing signs of Canine Cushing's disease.  Symptoms may come on gradually and may be mistaken for aging. Symptoms may include increased water drinking, frequent urination, panting, a potbelly, thinning skin and hair loss. Canine Cushing's disease is an endocrine disorder. The endocrine system is responsible for producing and secreting hormones, which are the body's chemical messengers. Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) results when the body produces too much cortisol (the "fight-or-flight" hormone). It can weaken the immune system and cause pain and discomfort. Diet changes and natural supplements can help so that many times dogs don’t require medication. Ask Ariel’s Canine Cushing's Support is made with phosphatidylserine. Phosphatidylserine is a well-researched nutrient that has been clinically shown to reduce cortisol levels. Many clients use our Canine Cushing’s Support along with our Liver Support Kit, flax lignans and melatonin.

Protect Your Dog From Skin Cancer

Did you know? Dogs can get skin cancer. Exposure to the sun is the most common cause of skin cancer in dogs. The ears, nose, paw pads and belly are the most sensitive areas since they have less fur. Dogs with lighter skin pigmentation or fur color are more susceptible than darker pups. Providing plenty of shade and using sunscreen specially formulated for dogs can help reduce your dog's risk of skin cancer. Sites like chewy.com and amazon have a wide range of dog-safe sunscreen. If your dog has been diagnosed with skin cancer, use OncoPet Cancer Vitamin to support your dog’s immune system.

Why Is Your Dog Shaking Their Head?

When dogs are shaking their heads, it’s a sign they are uncomfortable. Owners watch helplessly as their dogs scratch their ears, shake their heads and try to rub their ear into the carpet. It might be a foxtail or that something got into their ear, but most of the time it’s an ear infection. Ear infections are much more common during the spring and summer as the pollen and heat create a moist environment for bacteria and yeast to overgrow. If you notice your dog shaking his head, take them to the veterinarian right away as the problem only gets worse. Left untreated, ear infections can lead to deafness and they can often become a chronic problem. While ear drops and ear cleaners help immensely, making diet changes and using supplements like AskAriel’s Power Probiotic and Olive Leaf Extract can help as well. Food allergens like poultry and too many carbohydrates can weaken your dog’s immunity making it easy for ear infections to return. If your dog is getting ear infections, consider a low carbohydrate raw frozen diet using a novel protein like rabbit or venison.