Meet Pet Nutritionist Susan Davis Sunday 6/22 in Laguna Beach

 

Come meet Pet Nutritionist Susan Davis this Sunday 6/22 from 12 -4 at the Dog Ranch Pool Party & Open House in Laguna Beach, CA.   Susan will be available to answer your questions about how diet and supplements can keep your pets happy and healthy!  Dog Ranch is located at 20401 Sun Valley Drive Laguna Beach, CA. (949)494-0484

You are invited to come and celebrate
the opening of our NEW custom designed
double sided dog pool!

Please join us for an afternoon of food, drinks and fun
Tour the Dog House and newly remodeled sleeping areas
Meet other Dog Ranch dog owners.

It will be a Dog-Gone good time!!

For the safety of all our guests, dogs are not permitted to attend this event.  We apologize for any inconvenience.

Visit our new website:   www.thedogranch.com

Supplements Help Beautiful Cat With Lymphoma

Many thanks to E. Cooper for sharing her story about beautiful Princess.

"Princess is my best friend, the light and love of my life. She has always been a good sized cat, weighing between 11 and 12 lbs.  In June of 2013, I noticed that she seemed very light in my arms and that I could feel her ribs and spine.  She was diagnosed with hypercalcium and only weighed 8.46 lbs.  Her vet explained to me that the elevated calcium level is an indicator for feline lymphoma and discussed with me options for further bloodwork and chemotherapy.  At the time, I couldn't afford any kind of treatment for her.  I cried for an entire day.

The following day, I got myself together and looked at the reality: Princess wasn't sick.    We contacted Ask Ariel and ordered her the Power Probiotic, Samento and Lymph Terrain.  She started taking the supplements once daily, and man, does she hate it!  I have to add everything to water and syringe it down her throat each day while she fights me...but I have seen such an improvement.  Within a month, she was feeling more solid, her coat was shinier and her eyes were brighter.  She was playing more and just in general acting better. 

"After about three months of the supplements, I took her back to the vet and had her full blood panel repeated.  Her calcium had dropped back into the normal range!  Her A/G Ratio had lowered but was still borderline high, and her cholesterol was down.  Her monocytes were back into the normal range also.  But her platelet count ALT levels, creatinine levels,bilirubin were all low.  So we added Notatum and Immune Harmony into her "cocktail" and again, I've seen improvements.  She was back to the vet in mid-March, and all of her levels were looking good again, and best yet, she had started gaining weight again! 

My Princess is 12 years old and she is just as lovable as ever. Thank you so much Susan for all of your help and advice. I credit you whenever possible to keeping my baby healthy :)."

E. Cooper and Princess
Trenton MI. 2014

Hills Pet Recalls Bags of Science Diet Dry Dog Food

IMPORTANT PET FOOD RECALL

Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls 62 Bags of “Science
Diet® Adult Small & Toy Breed™” Dry Dog Food in California,
Hawaii and Nevada Because of Potential Health Risk

Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. of Topeka, KS is voluntarily recalling 62 bags of Science Diet® Adult Small & Toy Breed™ dry dog food as they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The suspect product, part of a single production run, was distributed to 17 veterinary clinic and pet store customers in California, Hawaii and Nevada between April 24 and May 13, 2014.

Hills Pet Nutrition
Science Diet Small And Toy Breed Dry Dog Food

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Soybean Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Pork Fat, Chicken Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Flaxseed, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Dried Carrots, Dried Spinach, Dried Grape Pomace, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Citrus Pulp, Iodized Salt, Oat Fiber, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Phosphoric Acid, Beta-Carotene, Natural Flavors.

This diet contains grains, salt, soybean oil and other ingredients which can be problematic for   For optimal nutrition, AskAriel Your Pet Nutritionist recommends feeding your pet a grain-free, hypoallergenic diet.  Use canned or raw frozen diets for best results.  Pets with allergies or digestive problems can experience relief of symptoms using raw frozen hypoallergenic protein sources such as rabbit.  To learn more about the pros/cons of using a raw frozen diet for your cat or dog, please read this comprehensive pet nutrition article.

Top 10 Cat Breeds in 2014

Top 10 Cat Breeds in 2014

1. The Persian- Persians are affectionate and loyal but need their long fur groomed daily.
2. The Maine Coone-Large kitties with a long flowing coat:  gentle personality.
3.  The Exotic-bred to be similar to a Persian but with short hair
4.  The Siamese-They like to “chat” with their owners and are very active.
5.  The Abyssinian-They’re slim with a shiny coat; very playful and friendly.
6.  The Ragdoll-these kitties go limp when picked up, much like a doll...should be kept inside as they are very docile and won’t defend themselves.
7.  The Birman-friendly, outgoing, and love to be around humans.
8.  The Shorthair-the "happy medium" kitty--medium in size and temperament
9.  The Oriental- a quiet breed and act a lot like Siamese cats.
10.  The Sphynx- climbs anything, is and lively and athletic. They have no fur, and come in a multitude of colors.

Source: http://trend-junky.com/ 

Each breed may have genetic predispositions to certain conditions that will need to be addressed in their lifetime, but ALL cats can benefit from good nutrition and supportive supplements to aid in having a long, happy, and healthy life.  We have found adding Power Probiotic and using a fish oil like Amazing Omegas will help your cat fight off viruses and supports their overall health.

Protect Your Pet from Pancreatitis

At holiday time and all the time, it's fun to pamper our pets!  But, please be careful with table scraps.  Table scraps can be high in fat and may contain spices and unusual ingredients that can make your pet sick.  Instead, keep a variety of treat options handy (freeze dried food and treats work great!) so that you can pamper your pet with foods that will keep them healthy and happy.  Lypozyme is great to keep on hand as it improves digestion of fats and can help ward off pancreatitis. 

Pancreatitis is inflammation and swelling of the pancreas. It can occur in  mild or severe forms and can be triggered by eating table scraps or a fatty meal.  Pets can also get pancreatitis from eating spoiled food so be careful to keep trash tightly closed.  Symptoms of poor digestion related to fat absorption can include gas, bloating, swollen abdomen and elevated pancreatitic enzymes. Our veterinary-approved Pancreatitis Kit includes 3 formula (Lypozyme, Liver & Gallbladder , Power Probiotics) that contain powerful enzymes and nutrients to support cats and dogs with pancreatitis.  If you suspect your pet may have eaten inappropriate food and is now not eating or showing signs of lethargy, inappetance, vomiting or diarrhea, please contact your veterinarian immediately.  This can often happen when house guests are there so please keep a close eye on your pet when food is being served, especially on lower tables such as those near a couch.

May is Pet Allergy Awareness Month

Your pet can suffer from allergic symptoms , just like people, when their immune systems start recognizing everyday substances (dust, grass, shampoo, food items) as dangerous. Despite these allergens being common and harmless to most animals, a pet with allergies can have an extreme reaction to them. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested or come in contact with your pet's skin, so as their body tries to rid itself of these substances, a variety of reactions can occur. They can show up as skin, digestive and/or respiratory symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Allergies In Dogs And Cats include:

• Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
• Increased scratching
• Itchy, runny eyes
• Itchy back or base of tail (most commonly a flea allergy)
• Itchy ears and ear infections
• Sneezing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Snoring due to an inflamed throat
• Paw chewing/swollen paws
• Constant licking

The first step would be to limit your pets exposure to known allergens as much as possible.  Of course it may be impossible to completely eliminate them (especially during certain times of the years). Holistic intervention can be very effective.  If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, a diet change to a hypoallergenic diet can be helpful. For skin and environmental allergies, it is important to support your pets immune system and calm the inflammation.  To learn more about how to help your pet with allergies, click here. 

When You Feel Like You Are Not A Good Pet Owner

Have you ever felt this way? Recently have received a few emails from great pet owners contacting us because they wonder that they are not "good enough" or the right fit for their pets. The owner can feel badly because their pet is not feeling well or having immune challenges and the pet owner becomes frustrated thinking it is somehow their fault or that somehow they are not doing enough for their pet. The person may be working full time, or not be able to spend as much time with the pet as they would like to. Well....just the fact that the person is feeling this way, is a sign that the pet owner IS a good owner, IS sensitive to their pet's needs and is kind enough to care. It the people who leave their dogs all day in the sun with no water, or "forget" to feed their pets because they are too busy, that should be feeling this way. Please remember, your pets do love you and you are a good pet owner. Sometimes pets are just reflecting sadness, because you may be sad. Sometimes, it is just a tough time, but the sun will shine through again!  Give your pet a hug and spend extra time at your next opportunity. 

Easy Kidney Supplement for Cats

Toby

“Toby is a Persian cat 15 years old. Last year he was diagnosed with Kidney disease along with a UTI. Toby was fed, what we thought was a healthy diet. Toby would not eat the food and was getting weaker every day, he couldn't defecate and he wasn't urinating. You could see and feel every bone in his body, his eyes were glazed over and his coat was dull. Toby would sit and stare at the wall--he had given up. We made an appointment to speak to Susan Davis. She gave us all the information we needed to save Toby's life. Toby now eats a healthy diet and takes a few supplements such as Kidney Terrain, Kidney Health and Power Probiotic. The products all are easy to give and even a fussy cat will eat them.

Toby is a changed cat. He is healthier than he has ever been in his entire life! He has gained weight, has a beautiful coat, bright eyes, plays like a kitten, purrs constantly and loves his food. We are only sorry that we didn't know about Ask Ariel before. Susan has given Toby a new lease on life and he loves it!”

Peden Family
New York 2012

One of the most common diseases, as cats age,  is kidney disease.  Kidney disease may be hard to detect in the early stages, but some of the symptoms you may notice are increase urination, increased thirst, weight loss, vomiting, and discomfort in their back.  Early intervention can be the key to your pet maintain a high quality of life, while battling kidney disease.  A kidney-friendly diet, and supplements that help the kidney function (and remove toxins) can help a great deal, but pet owners might find it difficult to give supplements to finicky kitties.   Fortunately,  Kidney Health,  is a product that contains a very palatable powder that just mixes into your cat's food.  The enzyme, in Kidney Health, helps to break down protein, enhancing digestion and reducing the workload on the kidneys.  We highly recommend the product as it seems to improve kidney values and symptoms and is an easy supplement to administer for CRF.

PET FIRST AID TIPS

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month and a great time to refresh and update your animal safety plans. Our pets are surrounded by household hazards, that can lead to accidental injury, choking on a toy, or ingesting something toxic.  If an accident happens, being prepared, and knowing what to do in the initial moments, can make a big difference in the outcome.  

HEAT STROKE
Heat stroke is a common problem pets face in the warmer weather. You should remember that the inside of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees, and not leave an animals in the car, even during short trips.   I'm sure you have felt the anguish of walking by a car where the windows are barely open and a dog is crying or barking in the car.

The signs of heat stroke include:

• heavy panting
• unable to calm down 
• gums may be brick red 
• fast pulse rate
• pet may have difficulty walking or standing

If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, call your veterinarian immediately.  Heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage so getting the pet to an emergency clinic is crucial.  If not near a veterinary facility, call the vet and try to cool your pet down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose or placing cold wet towels on your pet.

INJURY
During warmer weather, we all tend to leave doors and windows open, which if heights are involved, can be hazardous to a pet. The pet could fall from a window or run outside of your home and get hit by a vehicle. If you find an injured animal, it is important to use caution:

• Animals in pain can be aggressive--if possible, muzzle the pet and try to keep them calm
• Clean the area, to determine the extent of the injury   
• Apply bandage to stop bleeding 
• Transport, to the nearest veterinarian, using a board or blanket to lift the animal. (use extreme caution to protect their spine)

POISONOUS SUBSTANCES
Plants, flowers, candy containing XYLITOL, chocolate and other foods can be hazardous. Visit the ASPCA Poison Control web site to find out which plants and flowers are poisonous to animals. If you think your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance,  please contact your veterinarian immediately.

CHOKING
If your pet’s airway is completely obstructed by an object, there will be no time to go to the veterinarian for help—you need to take immediate action. Here are the recommended steps from PetMD.com

1. Use both hands to open the mouth, with one hand on the upper jaw and the other on the lower.
2. Grasping the jaws, press the lips over the dog’s teeth so that they are between the teeth and your fingers.
3. Look inside the mouth and remove the obstruction with your fingers.
4. If you can’t move the object with your fingers, use a flat spoon handle to pry it away from the teeth or roof of the mouth.

EMERGENCIES AND YOUR PET
Don’t forget to include pets in planning for emergencies in your home or neighborhood, which could be a fire, flood, hurricane or earthquake. Most Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety concerns. Know which friends, relatives, hotels, or boarding facilities will accept pets in an emergency. In case of an emergency, it is important to have the following for your pet: 

• Assemble an easy-to-carry kit with emergency supplies for pets: Leashes, harnesses and/or carriers
• Food, drinking water, bowls, manual can opener
• Medications and copies of medical records
• Current photos of the pets (in case you get separated)

Natural Brain Supplements Help Labrador with Epilepsy

"To all of you at Ask Ariel,
Thank you for the amazing supplements you provide. We see a tremendous improvement in the lives of all our cats and dogs! They have more energy and are far healthier. Subsequently we spend a lot less time at the veterinary office.  With your supplements we are looking forward to having our babies with us for many more years! The picture attached is of my Lab mix Julie.  Just shy of her 3rd birthday, she was diagnosed with epilepsy. The day after the test came back we went online to email you guys about her condition. We bought everything that was recommended and a year later we've been seizure free and have seen a remarkable improvement in her attitude and energy  She is taking her NeuroFlam, Dog Brain Booster, Purrfect Pet CoQ10,  Curcumin,  EFA oils, and probiotics daily.  She is only 3 years old and is the sweetest girl! Thank you for giving me many more healthy years with her!"

Malena and Julie Santos

Best Pals Bella and Juno Need A Home

Juno

Bella

Best pals, Bella and Juno, found each other when they came to Siberian Husky Haven on L.A. They keep each other company, bunk together and play all day. They would love to find a forever home together. If you could open your heart to two lovable dogs, this is the pair to consider.  They have already bonded with each other, which will  help make the transition to a new home all the easier.   These two adorable dogs would be a perfect fit for a working family.  Huskies are cuddly, friendly dogs that are loving and affectionate with children.   For adoption information, please contact  HUSKY HAVEN of L.A.   

Husky Haven of LA:  661-266-9779   Email:  huskyhavenofla@hotmail.com

Shaving Double Coated Dogs: Reasons Why Not To Shave Your Dog

Sometimes pet owners may shave their dog in the summer thinking it will make them cooler.   Contrary to popular belief, dogs DO NOT have a large network of sweat glands designed to regulate the body temperature during hot weather (they only have them on the pads of their feet). Most of their cooling takes place through panting.  However, there may be serious consequences from shaving your dog.  Which dogs are most at risk for having problems with shaving? Double coated dogs.  A double coated dog is any dog with an outer coat and a soft undercoat.  The soft undercoat is what sheds.  These two coats grow independently of one another and to different lengths.  The outer coat is longer, and tends to grow slower.  The undercoat is shorter and grows faster, and also turns over, or sheds, twice a year.  Some examples of dogs with double coats are German Shepherds , Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, and Siberian Huskies.

You should consider not shaving these double coated dogs as they have sensitive skin.  Skin can become irritated from razor burn and it is much more likely to be sunburned.  The thick hair protects their skin from the sun and also bug bites. Also, the undercoat provides insulation in the winter and cools the dog in the summer.  Shaved dogs get more sun exposure and are more prone to getting skin cancer.  Also, if they have dry or skin issues already, you are just compounding the problem.

Shaving does NOT make dogs shed less. Your double coated dogs will shed their under coat twice a year, and shaving them does not prevent this from happening. It can also cause permanent damage to the dog's coat. There is no outer coat to protect the under coat and it will become brittle and break off. Also, the under coat is dull and dense and not visually appealing. Instead of having your dog shaved to get rid of unwanted hair, having the dog professionally groomed on a schedule will remove all the dead undercoat.  Use Amazing Omegas fish oil to reduce shedding. 

Times Have Changed for Veternarian Care

In previous times, a veterinarian was more or less expected to do it all. This still holds true in many areas where specialty care is not readily available. What has changed is the increased availability of specialists, more and more speciality clinics are opening and the Internet has given you a world of information and specialist at your fingertips. It is important to remember that you must do your due diligence and make sure your sources of help are of the highest quality. Don't just believe everything you read! 

There are so many great veterinarians and many may really be "good at it all", but most realize their strengths and weakness. Just as in human medicine, they understand when to allow a specialist to step in and help your pet. Respect and cooperation between referring veterinarian and specialist is key to the smooth and effective handling of your pet’s care. This is especially true since specialists are typically brought on to address only one area of concern, but will refer you back to your own veterinarian for routine care or when the situation is finally resolved.

We at AskAriel.com  specialize in Holistic Pet Care and Nutrition services. Our nutritionist, Susan Blake Davis, provides expert advice about how holistic pet care can improve the health of your pet and can be used successfully along with conventional veterinary care. Based in Orange County, California, Ask Ariel offers holistic pet care and veterinary services for dogs and cats, including natural pet supplements and pet nutritional counseling. Our holistic pet care advice is backed by scientific research and our natural pet medications and supplements are third-party tested to guarantee the purity and effectiveness of the ingredients.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)," a veterinary specialist is a veterinarian who has completed additional training in a specific area of veterinary medicine and has passed an examination that evaluates their knowledge and skills in that specialty area." The most common area of specialist veterinarian medicine include:

• Behavior: veterinarians with additional training in animal behavior 
• Dentistry: veterinarians who perform procedures on animals' teeth 
• Dermatology: veterinarians who study diseases and conditions of the skin 
• Emergency and Critical Care: the "ER docs" and intensive care specialists 
• Cardiology: the study of diseases and conditions of the heart and circulatory system 
• Neurology: the study of diseases of the brain, spinal cord and other parts of the nervous system Oncology: the study of tumors and cancer Microbiology: veterinarians who study viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. 
• Holistic Care and Nutrition: veterinarians working to make sure that animals' diets meet their body's needs for nutrients 
• Oncology: specialist who deals with the treatment of cancer 
• Ophthalmology: veterinarians studying diseases and conditions of the eye 
• Radiology: veterinarians who focus on the study of x-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (often called CAT scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other imaging procedures that allow us to see "inside" an animal's body 
• Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: veterinarians who focus on returning animals to normal function after injury, lameness, illness or surgery 
• Orthopedics: these surgeons focus on bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, etc. of the body's skeletal system 

To find a specialist in your area visit myveterinarian.com

Pumpkin is a Miracle Food For Cats and Dogs

Pumpkin a Miracle Food

If your cat or dog has any type of digestive problems or has an occasional loose stool or constipation, a small amount of pure canned pumpkin (not raw or the sugary, spicy pie filling) mixed into the food can really help. Pumpkin is high in fiber and helps regulate the natural wave action of the intestinal tract. It is also a good source of natural Vitamin A and antioxidants.  Too much pumpkin can have a laxative effect,  but a couple of teaspoons a day for little pups, or a couple of tablespoons for big boys, should keep them right on track.

Two Reasons to Add Pumpkin to Your Pet's Diet

1.  Digestive Health: It can  help dogs and cats with indigestion or upset stomachs and can aid dogs and cats with both constipation and diarrhea as it helps to promote the natural wave action of the intestines.
2. Weight Loss:  Due to the high fiber content, their tummy will feel full longer, and they might even thank you for the additional flavor.

Donations Desperately Needed For Rescue Dog

Rescue Dog Needs Your Help

This is Kiara, a senior dog that never managed to get a stable home---in/out of shelters her whole life.  Rhonda Hallden of Husky Haven of LA www.huskyhavenofla.org rescued her from euthanasia at a high kill shelter in the hopes of finding someone who might adopt this senior girl. Well....Kiara finally had her chance but the woman decided within a few hours that it wasn't a "good fit" AFTER she managed to accidentally step on Kiara's tail causing the poor dog to fall down a flight of stairs.  She  immediately returned an injured Kiara the following day.  Rhonda fortunately found a sweet elderly couple Janet and Mac,  (who have a tripod special needs dog Maddie adopted from Rhonda) who offered to nurse Kiara back to health temporarily.  Ask Ariel provided supplements and we got acuscope treatments (a wonderful physical therapy---please see picture of Kiara with Gina Goulde giving her acuscope therapy) which helped her immensely.  

Then, Janet  fell and broke her hip......but in spite of it all, the elderly couple were determined to continue to foster Kiara because she and Maddie (their tripod dog) were becoming good companions.   By the time Janet was able to get home and walk again, Kiara's health declined considerably.  Kiara was no longer able to walk and could not get up on her own (had to use a towel to help her stand).   Mac uses a walker and is unable to walk either of the dogs although both Janet and Mac sure do shower them with love and attention.

It has taken a "village" (volunteers, donations, time and energy) to get Kiara up and walking, but thanks to diet, acuscope therapy and a few supplements such as  Special SAMe,  Kiara has made a big comeback.  She is going on slow walks and gaining mobility. But donations are desperately needed to continue her special care.   

Please donate
This is a very tough situation and Husky Haven really needs donations. A donation in any amount will help!   Husky Haven of LA is a 501 (c)(3) public charity and donations can be made directly on the website www.huskyhavenofla.org or mailed to: AskAriel P.O. Box 723 Dana Point, CA 92629 (and we will forward to Husky Haven).  Husky Haven of LA's founder is Rhonda Hallden who has dedicated her life to serving animals and the community.

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The Important Role of Service Dogs

The ADA defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.  Service animals perform some of the functions and tasks that the individual with a disability cannot perform for him or herself. You may initially think of people with a vision or hearing impairment, but it can also include,  seizure alert, psychiatric disorders support, retrieving objects, closing doors, turning light switches off and on, and barking to indicate that help is needed.  Another type of service dog are those used by the military, local police, fire departments, and federal and state law enforcement agencies for functions such as bomb sniffing, drug enforcement, search and rescue, and fire investigation.

Many programs will use Golden Retrievers and Labradors for services dogs. They have many of the characteristics that make for a good service dog, but many other breeds have unique characteristics that can be helpful to the needs of their owner or handler. The dog will undergo very extensive training in the desired area of expertise before being placed with an owner. Although the bond between the owner and dog will be very strong, it is important to realize that these dogs are doing a job.  Our hope is that when they are not working, they also are a "pet". We are so lucky o have these wonderful dogs give such a beautiful gift to people who desperately need and rely on them for their day to day activities.  For many disabled people, their service dog may be their closest partner and friend.

The Stray Dogs of Sochi

The Russian city of Sochi has a big problem with stray dogs, and leading up to the Olympics, the government instructed them to be moved or exterminated.  Shelter coordinator, Olga Melnikova, last week told the New York Times: “We were told, ‘Either you take all the dogs from the Olympic Village or we will shoot them’ Thankfully, with people like USA Olympic skier, Gus Kenworthy, and the Russian billionaire, Oleg Deripaska some of the homeless dogs will be spared.

Oleg Deripaska, stepped in and saved the stray dogs by setting up a shelter in the mountainside.  They are working with the Humane Society International to try and find new homes for the strays.  For more information, here is the link to their website http://www.hsi.org/issues/street_dog/factsheets/adopting-transporting-pets-internationally.html

The Olympic silver medalist, Gus Kenworthy, found a mother and  four pups in the Olympic Village and vowed to save them before their extermination.  He tweeted on February 12th "Also, for the people wondering, I've lined up kennels 4 the pups & made vaccination appointments. Doing all I can to bring them home w/ me!"  Keeping his promise, he even delayed his return to Colorado to await clearance to bring the family of dogs home.

However, homeless pets are not only a problem in Sochi, but here at home in the USA as well.  Many pets are sitting in shelters and being fostered by worthy rescues, awaiting a forever home.  We at AskAriel.com have partnered with Husky Haven of LA to try to place homeless Huskies in the Los Angeles area. We would also encourage you to visit your local shelters or visit petfinder.com. 

For articles and information about pet nutrition and holistic pet care, please visit www.AskAriel.com

Dog Nutritionist - Cat Nutritionist Orange County, CA

Nutrition Consultations Update!

Southern California Residents

Need help formulating the best diet for your cat or dog? Has your pet been diagnosed with cancer?  Is your pet getting chronic infections or scratching incessantly?  VCA Pet Nutritionist Susan Blake Davis offers compassionate, expert advice.  Please call the VCA animal hospital in your area to schedule an appointment! 

Inperson Appointment Times Available:

 Thursday 2/20 VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital

 Thursday 2/27 VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital

Visit www.AskAriel.com

Dog Anal Glands and Scooting Problems

Oh no, this page had meow-ved!

Visit the new page here: https://www.askariel.com/pet-allergies-s/1818.htm.

Cold Weather Safety for Your Pet

Winter is here and with it the cold weather. It also requires some special care and considerations for your pet's safety.  Here are some things to remember

• Preventive Care Exam-The cold weather can make certain conditions worse and they may need extra support during this time of year for example arthritis may be more painful.

• Cold Weather Tolerance- Be aware that each pet will have it's own tolerance for cold depending on coat, body fat, activity level,  age (puppies have a lower tolerance) and health. Diseases such as diabetes, heart and kidney disease may make it harder for them to regulate their body temperature and arthritis may be more painful.

• Grooming and Dressing-Keeping your pet's coat longer during the winter can help keep them warm. Also dressing them properly (coat and booties) can help them maintain their body temperature. 

• Avoid Over Exposure To the Cold - Even if they are dressed properly over exposure should be avoided.  This includes leaving your pet outside for long periods of time even in a car (just as in summer it can be dangerous) Frost-bite and Hypothermia can set in quickly.

• Ice- Be caution of frozen bodies of water and don't let your dog off their leash. It might be thinner than you think. It can also be slippery and injury can occur

• Wipe Their Paws and Coats- Paws can get dry and crack causing pain and infection. Wiping and check paws regularly can help. They may also come in contact with potentially hazardous substance (salt, antifreeze, deicers) and by wiping them down you can reduce the risk. 

• Warm Place-Provide a warm safe place (away from drafts) for your pet.  Consider moving your outdoor pets inside. 

• Plan Ahead- Be prepared for severe weather, blizzards, and power outages. Make sure you have enough supplies on hand in case of an emergency (food and medications).

Pasadena Bear Approaches Couple Standing on Porch

Bob and Irene McKeown don't see the bear on their porch!

Bear Approaches Couple Standing on Porch in Pasadena: When Bob and Irene McKeown return home to Scotland, they'll have quite a story to tell about their unexpected encounter in Southern California. While visiting the home of relatives in Pasadena on Tuesday morning, the couple was shocked to be approached by an unusual local resident.  Imagine how startled Bob McKeown must have been when he bent over to help his wife into the car and felt something brush up against his leg.  He turned around and what was there?  A bear cub!!!!  The baby bear is caught on video watching him leave his home following him to the car.  Must watch this video!  Chris Wolfe reports for the KTLA 5 News at 6:30 on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2014.

It's A Miracle: Beautiful Malamute Survives Liver Cancer

Willow

"Willow had her follow up scan and bloodwork today......4 months after surgery and diagnosis.  I’m so overwhelmed with gratitude and emotion I couldn’t wait to email you.  Her ALT level is normal!  Her ALKP is barely elevated!  Most importantly......the growth that was on the underside of the liver that was inoperable, is gone!!!!!  They did multiple scans in all different ways trying to find the tumor and it’s not there.  They looked at everything on her and nothing.  Everything is perfectly normal and healthy and the doctors said that if they didn’t know the history they would have questioned why they were even examining her.  She acts like a puppy and is so happy and energetic we almost can’t believe it.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!  You are an absolute angel from God."
Best,  The Wilcox Family 2014

Here are some of the Ask Ariel products that Willow is taking:

OncoPet


Resveratrol for Dogs



Curcumin For Dogs and Cats

Liver & Gallbladder Supplement For Pets

Dog Liver Cancer: Holistic Treatments Can Help

The liver is a major organ that helps to detoxify the body.  It is also the organ that carcinogens and toxic compounds pass through, which can be a factor in dogs developing liver cancer. In addition, similar to people, the liver can also be an organ into which a primary cancer (in another part of the body) can metastasize to, accelerating the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body. It is very hard to detect canine liver cancer in the early stages of the disease. Some of the initial signs may be abdominal pain, inappetance, excessive weight loss, or a mass in the abdomen may be felt by your veterinarian.  A definitive diagnosis of canine liver cancer can only be obtained when a liver biopsy is done.

 In conjunction with conventional veterinary care, holistic care can be of help to your pet. Since the liver can regenerate new tissue, it is one of the few types of cancer, where we have seen especially good results in dogs.   Several of our clients have sent us testimonials about their dogs living far longer than prognosis, even with large masses, using a holistic approach, along with their veterinarian's recommendations.

     Greta

"Thrilled to have had ONE additional year...IN January 2*0*1*2, I was informed that my girl, GRETA who is closest to me, sleeps by my side, accompanies me most anywhere, etc had TWO to FOUR weeks to live at the most..I was told she had inoperable liver cancer that had already spread to her lungs and was quite widespread.   Click here to view full testimonial

Why is My Dog Always Licking His Paws?

Updated: 4/29/24

Dog paw licking is a common behavior that many pet owners observe in their pet. While occasional paw licking is normal for dogs, excessive or persistent licking can be a cause for concern. There can be various reasons why your dog is licking their paws, ranging from medical issues to behavioral factors. 

Questions To Ask If Your Dog Is Always Licking Their Paws?

If your dog is always licking their paws, it is important for you to ask the following questions:

• When did it begin?  Is it a lifelong problem or a recent occurrence?
• Has anything changed in their environment, lifestyle or diet? 
• When does your pet lick and chew their paws the most? After a walk, being in the yard, seasonally?

These questions will help you pinpoint the cause of the behavior and the underlying problem so you can implement appropriate measures to address the problem effectively.

Common Causes Of Paw Licking In Dogs

Allergies-  Consider whether your dog may have allergies to food, environmental factors (such as pollen or grass), or household products (like cleaners or detergents). Often a pet may have both food and environmental allergies but the symptoms only become noticeable during certain times of the year. To mitigate contact allergies, consider using specialized dog socks to minimize exposure during outdoor activities or opt for paw-soaking in a bathtub or sink upon returning indoors. Addressing food allergies may necessitate a hypoallergenic diet, excluding ingredients like corn, soy, chicken, and peanut butter from your pet's food regimen. 

Bacterial And Fungal Paw Infections- These can arise from various factors, including moisture, cuts or scratches, foreign objects, allergies, compromised immune systems, environmental factors, and poor hygiene.  Excessive paw licking, which causes wetness and staining can also lead to yeast overgrowth and emit a distinct "yeasty-cheese-like" odor. This makes them more susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infections. Abnormal odor, pain, redness, swelling and limping are the most common signs of these infections.  They may need to be treated with antibiotics or be helped by using a few holistic supplements. Yeast infection in dogs can be treated by changing their diet and using a yeast-killing formula like K9 Yeast Defense with Power Probiotic. Regular paw inspections, proper grooming, and maintaining a clean environment are crucial preventive measures.

Injury or Arthritis- Dogs lick injured or painful paws instinctively as a form of self-soothing and wound care. Licking provides temporary relief by reducing pain and inflammation through the release of endorphins. Additionally, the moisture from saliva can help keep the wound clean and promote healing. However, excessive licking can impede healing and may introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infection. Therefore, while some licking is normal and beneficial, monitoring and managing the behavior to prevent over-licking is important for proper wound healing.

Boredom or Psychological Causes-Self-grooming is the natural way that dogs pass the time, it can also signal underlying issues such as anxiety, stress, or boredom. Pay attention to whether this behavior occurs when your pet is left alone or during significant changes in the household. Making small lifestyle adjustments, such as increasing exercise, providing distraction toys, or minimizing time spent alone, can help alleviate these issues and curb the behavior.

Understanding the reasons behind a dog's paw-licking behavior is crucial for effective treatment and care. Whether it's due to allergies, injuries, behavioral issues, or medical conditions, addressing the underlying cause is essential for the well-being of your dog. By consulting with a veterinarian, implementing preventive measures, and providing appropriate treatment with medication and natural remedies, you can help alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and ensure your dog's paws stay healthy and happy. 

Author: Susan Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Original post: 1/8/14

Updated: 4/29/24

What To Look For In A Good Pet Food

A good pet food should contain meat, poultry or fish clearly identifiable in the first ingredients.  There should be a healthy balance between protein, fiber, fats (especially Omega 3 fatty acids such as flax seed and fish oil) and a limited amount of carbohydrates. Even if a pet food  is “organic” or holistic, it may be filled with soy, potatoes, peas and flour, which can contribute to a variety of symptoms in some pets (allergies, UTIs, etc).  For example,  dogs on "grain-free"  dry dog food may still suffer with chronic yeast and skin problems because the food is filled with carbohydrates.    Pets need fresh ingredients in their food---add steamed green beans, chopped broccoli or butternut squash for extra fiber or nutrition.  Pumpkin puree is an excellent source of fiber and beta carotene and can help pets with digestive issues.  Avoid feeding just dry food---canned or raw are optimal along some homemade ingredients. For more information on pet nutrition see the article:  What do dogs eat? Dog Nutrition 101

12 Year Old Lhasa Apso Recovers With Heart Supplements & IBD Support

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New Year Resolutions for Pets

Happy New Year! It is the time of year when many of us are thinking about making resolutions. The most common resolutions for people can also apply to your pet.  So, as you begin your planning, be sure to include your pets and make 2014 the best year for both of you.

I will commit to a good nutrition plan

Just like people, good nutrition for your pet is the key to good health.  Often a  poor diet is responsible for health problems including obesity and associated diseases, skin and coat problems,  and allergies. Giving your pet a well balanced, age appropriate diet will help ensure a happy, healthy pet.  It is also important that the quantity of food that you give matches the life stage and activity level of your pet. Click here to learn more about what to look for in a good diet for your cat or dog.

I will commit to regular exercise with my pet
Regular exercise is important to keep your pet in good physical shape and reduce the risk of obesity.  It also reduces the risk of heart and joint problems.  It can be as simple as a daily walk or can be more strenuous depending on your pets physical condition. Exercise is a great way to bond with your pet and as an added benefit, an exhausted dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. To exercise a cat, you could play with them, making them chase a feather or string. 

I will commit to maintaining good grooming practices 
Regular grooming including, bathing, coat maintenance,toe nail clips, and teeth brushing (or non-anesthetic cleanings). They are not just to help your pet look good, but are important to their overall health.  Yes, no one likes a smelly dog or enduring “cat breath” , but they could be an indicator of an underlying medical condition.  If the problem does not resolve with regular grooming, please seek assistance from your veterinarian.  

I will commit to getting health check ups
A visit to your veterinarian regularly is a good way to stay ahead of any potential problems. Preventive care is much less expensive than waiting to deal with a major illness or condition and it can also save your pet from suffering.  Annual laboratory tests for all pets (even young pets) provides a “baseline” which can be invaluable.  Learn more about pet health conditions.

I will commit to keeping my pet safe
Keeping pets safe is something most pet owners take for granted, but there could be hazards lurking everywhere.  Take the time to make precautions in your home and yard.  Analyze what toxic substance your pet could gain access to and what chemicals are used in the area your pets reside. Also include an assessment of physical hazards such as fencing, choking hazards, swimming pools and anything that they could get caught on or fall from.

I will commit to ensuring my pet gets enough love and attention
Life gets busy and all too often, our pets take a backseat to other demands. Try to make time for your pet---quality can be more important than quantity.  Sometimes a neighbor or family friend may be eager to help you care for your pet and pet sitters can fill in for you on a long day.  Many doggie playcare places are affordable and can take the stress off of you if you are working long hours.

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