Is A German Shepherd Right For You?

Do you want a dog that is loyal, intelligent, active and protective of  its family and home? If the answer is yes, then you should consider a German Shepherd. They can be a devoted, fun-loving member of the family. It is important to know that they are not usually aggressive, they can be territorial and be shy around unknown dogs and strangers. They are very trainable and like to be active with their people. These characteristics have made them popular in law enforcement, military roles and as service dogs. It also means you need to make sure they do not get bored, frustrated or lonely to avoid bad behavior. If you have little ones, it is good to know that German Shepherds can be great companions with children, providing they have had early socialization. On the downside, they can be vocal, shed everywhere, have a tendency to chew things up, and sometimes get carried away and play a little rough.   Unfortunately, many pet owners don't take the time to train or work with their German Shepherds and many end up in rescue or at shelters.  Adopting a rescue German Shepherd is an ideal way to find out your pet's personality before you adopt them. German Shepherds grow to be about 24 inches and weigh between 75-95 pounds.  They are generally healthy, and life expectancy is 10-12 years, but like all breeds are predisposed to certain conditions. They include the following: 

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dyplasia is a heritable condition in which the leg doesn't fit correctly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Using Special SAMe, Canine Comfort, Arthrtitis & Joint Support Kit can help keep your pets pain under control. 

• Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. It's thought to be caused by different growth rates of the three bones that make up the dog's elbow, causing joint laxity. This can lead to painful lameness. 

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: Commonly called bloat, this is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid itself of the excess air in its stomach, and the normal return of blood to the heart is impeded. See our blog for more information.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency: EPI is a genetic disease of the pancreas in which the cells that produce digestive enzymes are destroyed. As a result, the dog can no longer digest and absorb food. Consider adding Power Probiotics for Pets and K-9 digestive enzymes to help your pets digestion.
• Allergies: Some German Shepherds suffer from a variety of allergies, ranging from contact allergies to  food allergies. Regardless if they are food or contact holistic supplements can help. See our entire line of options including Amazing Omegas and Power Probiotic for Pets

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability ***** 

Exercise*** 

Social Needs***

Apartment Friendly ***

Grooming***

Stranger Friendly *

Barking Tendencies **

Health Issues****

Intelligence*****

Trainability*****

Child Friendly*****

Maltese Mix Is Free of UTIs With Diet Changes and Supplements

Lilly

"Just want to say "THANK YOU"!  THANK YOU”! Took your advice and had vet take urine with her fasting and her PH was 7 this month…Blood test and urinalysis came out good. (She has been UTI free since on your diet plan & supplements)  Lilly was 8 years old last November 17, 2014.  She has battled UTI 's from spring of 2012 until I found you on the internet in July 2013.  I was a little skeptical at first, but I tried it anyway, and glad I did, as it worked.  You have helped Lilly much." 

Renee Minnesota 2015

When Renee contacted us, in July 2013, she was upset and frustrated. At that time, she said “I have spent hundreds in the last two months. Lilly had a urinary tract infection (UTI) last month and now this month, she also had an infection last year. I need your help…”

Susan Davis, Pet Nutritionist, recommended changing her diet to a grain-free, hypoallergenic diet, which would help reduce the potential for infection and improve her health overall. She also recommended that Renee avoid poultry, ALL GRAINS (biscuits, treats with oatmeal, bread, etc), beef, peanut butter, cheese (all dairy) and corn permanently.
  
Renee used the following holistic supplements to help boost Lilly's immune system and prevent future UTIs with much success:

Pet UTI Prevention Formula- Helps clear bacteria and pathogens from the urinary tract, present in UTI infections, reduce inflammation and help promote healing.

Power Probiotic for Pets- The organisms in this product will help stabilize and maintain a healthy intestinal probiotic ecosystem and help keep the GI tract ph balance stable.

Notatum Drops- is very helpful for any type of infection. Works to boost your pet's immune system from the inside out.  This product is very helpful if your pet has been on antibiotics as it helps to prevent recurrence of an infection. Use with Quentans for best results.
Quentans Drops --use with Notatum to stop the cycle of chronic infections.  Excellent for UTIs, upper respiratory infections and viruses.

Amazing Omegas for Pets- contains the highest quality, purest fish oil available on the market. 

We are so happy that Lilly has had such great results!

Asian Canine Flu Hits the United States

You may have heard on the news recently about a new canine flu affecting dogs in the Midwest (especially the Chicago area).  It is a new Asian strain called H3N2. We have not seen it previously in the United States, so your dog will not have immunity to this virus and there is not a vaccine available in the United States. It is highly contagious and precautions should be taken, especially if cases have been identified in your area.

The symptoms are similar to the American canine flu H3N8 and include: coughing, sneezing and a runny nose. There has also been reports that many dogs infected by the H3N2 will develop pneumonia. It is also important to note that canine flu does not have a “flu season” like human influenza so pets can be infected all year. The American Veterinary Medical Association says, "Canine influenza is spread via aerosolized respiratory secretions and contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes) and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. The virus can remain viable (alive and able to infect) on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours and on hands for 12 hours."

If your dog is diagnosed with H3N2, be sure they are eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and fluids and watch for secondary infections (like pneumonia). Holistic supplements especially immune support supplements such as Quentans which is anti-viral can greatly help.   Keep an infected dog away from other dogs! They  could be contagious for at least 10-14 days. 

Since there is not a vaccine, prevention is the key to keeping your pet healthy.   Avoid areas that have documented cases of H3N2, especially places with high contact, dog care centers, training classes, dog parks, etc. and build your pets natural immune system with supplements such as  Amazing Omegas for Pets and Power Probiotics for Pets  

Choosing a Feeding Bowl For Your Pet

How much thought have you given to your pet’s food and water bowls? Pet bowls come in many sizes, colors and styles and of course perform an important function. Here are a few factors to consider when trying to find the right bowl for your pet

For Your Dog

Breed (and size) of your dog.  

Take a look at your dog’s anatomy, tiny breeds (Chihuahuas, Yorkies) would need a small-low sided bowl, but a large breed dog (Golden Retriever, Labs...that wants to lick the bowl clean) will need a large weighted, or rubber edged bowl to accommodate the quantity and avoid it being pushed around. Long eared dogs (Basset Hounds) need a bowl with high sides to keep their ears out and long-nosed (collies, afghan hounds) find it easier to eat from a deeper bowl. However, your shorter faced dogs (pugs, Boston terriers, bulldogs) find a shallow bowl better suited for their needs.

Age
Senior pets and those with arthritis or degenerative joint disease might find it more comfortable to have the bowl raised, rather than bending down.You can find bowls that sit on a pedestal or you could set it on a box or small table.

Material

• Ceramic bowls-  come in every pattern imaginable, they are more fragile and will require you to be a little more careful and make sure they are sealed.
• Plastic bowls- very durable and easy to care for, plus they also come in many different patterns, however some pets may have sensitivity to plastic.
• Stainless bowls- easy care and comes in variety of sizes, but you do not have the same options in patterns.

Decorative Style- what fits your home? It will be part of your life, do you want it to go with your décor or be a doggy pattern.

Other features-do you want one double bowl or two separate?, self-feeder/water bowls, self-feeder with timer (great for busy families). Or do you need a slow feeder bowl to help your dog slow down?

For Your Cat

Many of the same elements apply to cats, but often it is more important on where you feed your cat than in what.  Cats generally prefer a calm, quiet place and often like to eat off the ground (if there is a suitable place) away from small children and other pets.

Why Does My Dog Vomit After Eating?

Q: My beloved rescue dog often vomits after he eats; is it a digestion issue, food issue, or how he eats (he scarfs down his food in no time)… what can I do?

A: You have reason to be concerned. Of course it depends on how soon after and how often this occurs, but scarfing down his food can cause serious health problems.  Eating too fast can cause burping and flatulence (not dangerous, but can be unpleasant), choking, gastric dilatation, or volvulus, which is also known as bloat. Bloat is a condition that needs to be treated by a veterinarian immediately.  It can occur when a dog swallows too much air when they are eating their meals and the distension of the stomach can cause it to twist. This can cause damage to the stomach and even death.

To slow down your dogs eating, you need to determine the cause. Being a rescue dog it could be a case of conditioned competitive eating (often occurs in a shelter situation). If you have another pet, consider feeding them in different locations or times. Feeding your pet regularly will also help them have food security. Also use distraction with positive reinforcement to keep them from the other pet’s bowl can help too.

However, if they are the only pet in the house you can try to change how you are feeding them. Changing the bowl can help.  You can purchase a slow feed pet bowl, or make your own at home version by turning their feeding bowl upside down or using a muffin tin to separate their food to force them to pause. You can also feed smaller, more frequent meals.

Two supplements can greatly improve your dog's digestion.  Power Probiotics for Pets and K9 Digestive Enzymes will help your dog properly digest his food and reduce vomiting instances.   Dogs can suffer from malabsorption and even though they are eating the food quickly, they will not get the benefit of the nutrients if they are not digesting the food properly. 

German Shepherd with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Feels Better With Amazing Omegas Fish Oil!

                                                            

  Kiko

"Before we tried Kiko on the Ask Ariel Amazing Omegas, our boy had very dry flaky skin and his hair was very dull and dry. Within 2 weeks of using Amazing Omegas, Kiko has a healthy, thick, shiny, glossy coat of fur. I've also noticed new growth of hair around his elbows, stomach and ears. Thank you to Gina Gould for donating the first bottle for him to try. Ever since,  he has been on them. As a mom of a DM (Degenerative Myelopathy) dog, your products are working amazingly well at keeping our special boy healthy. Thank you Susan Davis and Ask Ariel!!!"
Jennifer Neal, California

Kiko is a rescue dog who needs donations to continue with his care.  To read his story, please visit: http://fnd.us/c/awit2

How to Transtion Your Dog or Cat to a New Food

Updated: 4/29/24

There may be a variety of reasons why it's important to change your pet’s food.  It could be a health condition, a healthier option or a change in the nutritional needs of your pet. Transitioning your pet's diet slowly is crucial because sudden changes can indeed lead to digestive upset and other health issues.

Why Should You Transition Your Pet's Food Slowly?

Digestive Sensitivity: Just like humans, pets have sensitive digestive systems. A sudden change in diet can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in their guts, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal problems.

Nutritional Balance: Different foods contain varying levels of nutrients. Abruptly switching your pet's food can result in an imbalance of essential nutrients, which may lead to nutritional deficiencies or excesses over time.

Palatability: Pets can be creatures of habit, and sudden changes in taste and texture may cause them to reject their new food. Slowly transitioning allows them to gradually adjust to the new flavor and texture, increasing the likelihood of acceptance.

Reduced Stress: Any abrupt change can be stressful for animals. Gradually introducing new food gives them time to adapt and reduces the stress associated with sudden dietary changes.

How Do You Transition Your Pet To A New Food?

To transition your pet to a new diet safely, gradually mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food over 7-10 days. This allows their digestive system to adapt gradually to the new food while minimizing the risk of digestive upset. Start with 1/4 new food with 3/4 old food for 3-4 days. If no issues arise,  then increase by 1/4 every two days until fully switched to the new food.  Please, keep in mind that if you introduce the new food too quickly, your pet could suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, gas or diarrhea.  If any of these occur, slow down the process beyond the recommended (reduce the percentage of new food and/or increase days between changes) until the symptoms subside. If your pet's stool is soft, you can add a small amount of pure canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)  to their food. The added fiber should help firm up their stools.  Also, Power Probiotic and a digestive enzyme such as K9 Digestive Enzymes will make the transition easier. 

Author: Susan Davis, pet nutritionist

Orignal Post: 4/12/15

Updated: 4/29/24

10 Year Old Min-Pin Running and Jumping like a Pup!

Ulysse

"Ulysse is our 10 year old Min Pin.  He is a very active little guy, loves to fetch, swim and run (he's done a few 5k with me). He had patella luxation surgery at the age of 2. As he got older, I noticed he was having some pain on his back. We did X-rays multiple times and the vet concluded he has arthritis. We started giving him Tramadol and it did help,to some extent, but I was always concerned about creating other issues in the long run. He had pancreatitis in the past and again Tramadol was given. We also did laser treatments but those stopped working after a couple of months. I started to research supplements and herbs because I  believe natural remedies do work. We tried many others before we ran into askariel.com products. Another min pin mom loved the products so I said well let's give them a try. By then he had taken metacam (not for long because of all the side effects) and I just couldn't do it. 

We decided to give him ARTHROSOOTHE and COLLAGENEX (collagen for pets) it took about one week and we were done with the Tramadol. He stopped growling when we touched his back and he started to jump, climb and run non-stop like a crazy little man that just turn two yrs old instead of 10 years. We just couldn't believe it!!! People at the dog park noticed the difference in his attitude and could tell he was feeling 100% better!!! My old man had turn into a young pup . When winter came along, I was concerned about the cold and his pains, but it didn't faze him. We continued going to the dog park and he  would just run and run and run and play with the snow! His two sisters ( min pin), the other people and I at the dog park couldn't believe him!

We are so grateful we found askariel.com  It changed my Ulysse's life completely!

Ana, Michigan 2015

Which Harness is Best for Your Dog?

 

Back-Clip Harness

Enjoying the great outdoors with your dog can be a special bonding time for both you and your pet, but an out of control, pulling dog can make it a misery (and potentially dangerous).  The use of a body harnesses can be a great tool, it can provide control and comfort for your pet.  They can be especially important to consider for dogs that have pushed-in faces (that restrict breathing), those with trachea or throat problems, and ones with slender necks. For these pets, a traditional leash hooked to their collar can cause them injury or discomfort.  There are many options that vary in style and function. Below lists the pros and cons of the three most common types.

Back-Clip Harness

This type has a ring that the leash will hook to on the top of the dog’s back.  Usually the dog adjusts to the back clip harness easily.

Pros:

·         Easy to put on and comfortable for a dog to wear.

·         Less tangling under the front legs.

·         They protect the fragile neck area.

Cons:

·         They offer little control if a dog has behavior issues, such as pulling on the leash, jumping up or displaying aggression.

Front-Clip Harness

Front-clip harnesses (as the name suggest) clips on the front and is centered on the dog’s chest.  Often trainers will suggest the front-clip harnesses, because they will give the owner more control over pulling, and direction the dog is moving.

Pros:

·         More control over pulling on the leash, jumping up or other poor leash manners

·         Provides the ability to direct the dog

Cons:

·         The leash on the front of the chest can tangle under the dog’s front legs if too much slack is given. 

Tightening Harness

There are variations of the body harnesses that will tighten and add pressure if the dog pulls. The slight tightening can be uncomfortable for the pet, which causes him to lessen or stop the pulling and walk on a looser leash.

Pros:

·         A harnesses that will apply slight pressure to a dog when they pull, but it does not cause pain.

·         They are generally easy to put on a dog.

Cons:

·         The dog doesn’t necessarily learn to walk on a loose leash, only with this type of harness.

·         Some tightening harnesses can feel uncomfortable to your pet. The pet might associate the pain as a negative association with the harness and might fight the usage of the device and/or the activity. 

So You Don't Think Your A "Cat Person"? Consider a Ragdoll!

Ragdolls Characteristics                                 
Adaptability *****
Energy Level ***                           Shedding Level ***
Affection Level *****                    Grooming **
Social Needs *****                        Child Friendly****
Health Issues ***                          Stranger Friendly ***
Dog Friendly*****                         Intelligence ***
(5* being most desirable)

So you don’t think you are a cat person…cats can be antisocial, aloof and nocturnal creatures. However, there are breeds that will welcome (and even crave) your attention. Some you can even train to play games with you.

One such breed is the Ragdoll. They are considered very lovable, easy going, social cats and as their name suggest, they become like a ragdoll when picked up or given attention. They are known to meet you at the door and will be your shadow as they follow you around the house and lucky you, they will keep their kitten like demeanor throughout their life.

They are a large breed, with males reaching up to 20 pounds and females about 15 pounds (at full maturity- by age 4). The life expectancy for a Ragdoll is between 12-15 years. Your ragdoll will require some grooming, but it's a small price to pay for the love and attention they bring.

Ragdolls generally do not have many health issues, but can be predisposed to bladder stones and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) a heart condition where there is regional or diffused thickening of the ventricle wall.
Diet and holistic Care can make a world of difference in your Ragdoll’s quality of life:

• For Bladder stones: Stones (and Urinary Tract Infections that may accompany them) we have found the combination of Renelix, Kidney Health, Quentans and Pet UTI Prevention Formula + Power Probiotic to help. 
• For Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)- heart supporting supplements including Purrfect Pet CoQ10 (a kitty-approved ubiquionol), and Amazing Omegas would help

When considering a new addition to your furry family, take a look at a Ragdoll. Their personality and adaptability might be a perfect fit for your busy life style.

Can Probiotics Increase A Pet's Lifespan?

Power Probiotic Keeps Pets Healthy!

 Stella and Shorty

We are sincerely grateful to the Fountain family for providing us with this special message about how our Power Probiotic has enriched their pets’ lives.  Scott and Joanne Fountain are dedicated dog owners who have saved the lives of countless rescue dogs, personally and through their volunteer rescue work.  They have 4 adorable rescue dogs in their household now and believe that the Power Probiotic “has increased their pets lifespan and kept them healthy.”

"Our home is blessed with the love of many rescued dogs... Joanne working with CA Labs and More Rescue (www.Labsandmore.org) has helped many dogs and families enjoy the same.  Here's an update on our "Family" as it is today;

Our "Shorty" came to us after being rescued with his two brothers, at the age of about 10 weeks, saved by Labs and More Rescue from a box dropped roadside in the SoCal desert. He is a Jack Russell/Beagle mix and he has the kindest soul of any dog we have ever saved. Shorty has taken Susan/Ask Ariel supplements and Power Probiotic his entire life and has been active, energetic, happy, and healthy for all of his five years. We expect that with lifelong continuation of his diet and supplements he will live to be a ripe old age... chasing and chewing every ball within sight!

Our "Stella" is a special child... she is a Jack Russell that we rescued into the family when she was just 12 weeks old. She came from a mid-west puppy mill so ran the risk of poor health from the outset. She had digestive and intestinal tract problems that in her first year almost took her from us twice. We altered her diet several times with the assistance of the Vets at U.C. Davis until we found the best (re: healthiest) diet she could keep down and thrive on... of course this diet has included Power Probiotic and other supplements so she can have and enjoy the same long and healthy life our other dogs do. She has become a bundle of pure energy and joy.

                 Rosie                                     

Our "Rosie" ( 13 1/2 year old Black Lab/Coon Hound mix) came to us at 1 year old.  She has lived a full and healthy life with good food and supplements from AskAriel. She has taken probiotics her entire life and save for the few fatty tissue tumors she now sports at old age (non-malignant, non-life threatening, non health impediment) she is a happy, healthy 'Ol Gal. Rosie has always had a healthy appetite, good food, probiotics and the occasional grass snack have kept her healthy into old age.

Buddy

 Our "Buddy" (Yellow Lab/Husky mix) is now 12.5 years old. He came to us after 8 years of captivity with a family that did not treat him well (he was left outside all day/night, he was not fed regularly, he had been attacked by Coyotes and bitten by a rattlesnake). He was 30# overweight from irregular eating binges. We brought him into our family and with a regular healthy diet and addition of Susan/Ask Ariel supplements and Power Probiotic, he is healthy and happy. He is a friend to all and resting his old bones in front of a fireplace is his special joy. He has some tender areas on his legs, residual from the coyote attacks, but is otherwise a very healthy and happy boy. When we take him on walks, everyone that sees him thinks he is a "puppy" because of the bounce in his step and smile on his angelic face. 

Scott and Joanne Fountain,  CA, 2015

Supplements For Dog Diagnosed with Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is a type of kidney disease that is usually caused by inflammation or infection of glomeruli (the tiny filters within the kidney).  It can occur in any breed and age of dog, but certain breeds tend to be more prone to the condition including: Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bull Terriers, Dalmatians, Samoyeds, Doberman Pinschers, Cocker Spaniels, Newfoundlands, Greyhounds Rottweiler, and Soft-Coated Wheaton Terriers.   It can be a serious condition and will require a combination of home care and veterinarian care. 

Common Symptoms

• Blood in the urine
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Anorexia
• Weight loss

Your veterinarian will most likely perform a urinalysis, complete blood count (to check anemia, inflammation, infection and platelet count) Serum biochemistry test (to measure protein concentration), urine protein/creatinine ratio (to measure protein loss in the urine) and if necessary a kidney biopsy may need to be done for a definitive diagnosis.

The prognosis will depend on the severity of your pet’s condition. It is important to work closely with your veterinarian as up to 70% of dogs with Glomerulonephritis will develop renal failure.  We have found with a change of diet and using Askariel.com holistic supplements including: Kidney Health Protein Support forPets, Renelix for Dogs and Cats, and Power Probiotic for Pets the quality of life and symptoms have improved greatly for dogs suffering with the condition.  While these products cannot cure kidney disease, they can improve the  functioning of the remaining nephrons and slow the progression of the disease.

FDA Issues Warning to Nestle Purina Pet Food Plant

A letter of warning was issued to the Nestle Purina Lehigh County Plant on  January 2, 2015 for "significant violations" and was recently posted to the FDA website.  The inspection was conducted from September 15, 2014 to October 1, 2014 and says that the food was "prepared, packed  or held under insanitary conditions" and could make your pet sick. 

Some of the products involved were Alpo Chop House Originals Roasted Chicken, Filet Mignon, Rotisserie Chicken in Gravy, Prime Cuts with Beef, Friskies Indoor Chicken, mixed grill, senior Beef and Rice Entree, Salmon Dinner,  Mighty Dog Chicken Egg & Bacon Country Platter,Chicken & Smoked Bacon Combo, Lamb and Rice, Gravy Sensations with Turkey and Giblets in Gravy.

Here are the list of violations listed on the FDA website:

• Failure to produce low-acid canned food in keeping with an FDA-approved process.

• Failure to identify and record deviations from the FDA-approved process for producing low-acid canned food.

• Failure to chlorinate or otherwise sanitize cooling water for cooling canals and recirculated water supplies.

• Failure to establish a system to prevent unprocessed cans from mixing with processed cans in the event of an equipment malfunction.

• Failure to install thermometers in a location where they can be accurately and easily read.

• Failure to have all processing and production records signed or initialed by a qualified plant management representative.

Please feed your pet a high quality grain-free, raw frozen food.  Click here to learn more about the best foods to feed your cat or dog.

Help My Dog Is Eating His Poop!

Q: I boarded my dog during the holidays and now he started eating his poop. I cannot get him to stop! I follow him outside and cleaning up right away, but still wonder what is wrong.  Do you have any suggestions? What diet do you suggest that will help him stop this behavior? 

A: Dogs may eat their stool for many different reasons.  One reason may be parasites.  It is important to get a stool test done by your veterinarian to rule them out and/or receive proper treatment if present.  Another reason may be that your pet is lacking the proper nutrition in their diet or that they have malabsorption of the nutrients.  Using K9 Digestive Enzymes, Power Probiotic for Pets and Colostrum for Pets, will help your pet digest and absorb their food properly and help improve their overall health.  Colostrum for Pets is essential for puppies and kittens as they often have worms and parasites.  It helps to heal the intestinal lining and is recommended especially if your pet has had giardia.

It is common for pets that have stool eating habits to be missing sufficient protein and other key nutrients.  They may also suffer from digestive problems such as diarrhea, acid stomach or malabsorption. Avoid feeding grains and dry food as they are loaded with carbohydrates which can often be "empty calories".  Just like us, if we fill up on carbohydrates, we end up feeling hungry soon after due to the insulin spike from the empty carbs.  

Using these essential digestive support supplements in conjunction with the proper diet can alleviate the problem.  If you include what you are feeding your dog on the order form at checkout, Ask Ariel will provide a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your order.

 

Boston Terrier Survives Mast Cell Tumors

"In April of 2013, my precious Boston Terrier, Marcie had 3 mast cell tumors removed at age 7.They had been misdiagnosed by previous conventional veterinarians. Thankfully I located a wonderful holistic DVM who I have to drive 320 miles round trip to see, but well worth the travel.One of the tumors had become a grade 2. After reading the pathology report and various other articles, I was terrified of what might happen. My first Boston Terrier lived to be sixteen and my second eighteen. Naturally I am shooting for at least twenty with my little third charm.

She's my baby and I will do anything I can to give her the best and all she needs. Being a huge fan of nutraceuticals, I started exploring options. Without using any western cancer solutions, my holistic vet had outlined a base diet to feed and recommended some supplements in addition to the holistic Chinese herbs she mixes just for Marcie. She did not think we needed to do any type of western intervention and I was open to whatever my pup needed.

I was concerned that I was not doing all I could though, so I consulted Susan for a nutrition consult. Susan made her recommendation and also suggested supplements from the AskAriel.com website. I immediately placed my order for several products she recommended and have been using these now for years. Other than a couple of changes in protein sources, which is necessary with dogs with serious allergies, my baby is amazing. Everybody that meets her is in awe of her beauty and comment on the glow of her coat which I attribute to Amazing Omegas. They cannot believe that she is nine years old and has puppy energy!

I still have a twenty year goal and I thank God each day He gives me to love her. Marcie's recent bloodwork results were awesome. I know it would not be possible without Susan's help. I highly recommend her expertise and products."

Kim (2015)
Florida

Supplements that help Marcie include: Amazing Omegas for Pets, Onco X, AllerEaze, Gastro ULC, Power Probiotic for Pets, K9 Digestive Enzymes, and Immune Harmony.

My Can't Won't Eat! Reasons Why Your Kitty May Not Be Eating Well

We were recently contacted by a client that wanted to know what to feed her 10 year old cat, who had started to  be "finicky" about food recently.  She went on to explain that, a few weeks ago, her furry baby had stopped eating her regular dry food.  She then tried a few different canned foods, only to have her lose interest every few days, and finally resorted to pieces of cooked chicken and tuna.  She did not notice any other changes in her cat's behavior.

It is important to know that a change in your cat's eating habits usually indicates a problem! It is not common for a cat to get "tired of the food". You need to get to the bottom of the issue sooner than later.  Even if your cat is drinking it can become dehydrated, which can have devastating results.There could be many reason a cat will stop eating, here are the most common:

Dental Problems-Your cat's mouth may be sore...it could be from an injury, broken tooth, an infection or from a common condition known as stomatitis, which causes it to be painful to chew.  You will need to have an assessment of your pet’s mouth, treatment of cause and possibly a dental cleaning to resolve the issue.

Gastrointestinal Issues- If your cat has nausea due to gastrointestinal (GI) problems, he or she will not want to eat. Often cats with GI problems will have weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.  Power Probiotic and Soothing Digestive Relief provide relief for the discomfort associated with GI symptoms. There are many reasons your cat could have GI issues, some include

• Parasites (Colostrum + Power Probiotic can help ward off parasites, especially if your cat is vulnerable and has had these previously)
• Colitis (acute or chronic inflammation of the membrane lining the colon)
• Gastroenteritis (inflammation or infection of the GI tract)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation or infection of the pancreas)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)  inflammation of the intestinal lining which is often due to food allergies
• Cancer (e.g. intestinal lymphoma)

Kidney Disease-Very common, particularly in older cats, not wanting to eat is kidney disease. Kidney disease causes acid to build up in the GI tract which causes nausea. Only your veterinarian can diagnose kidney disease so it is again important to have your feline examined as soon as possible.  Using Gastro ULC + Power Probiotic can greatly help.  Kidney disease is very common in senior cats.  It can be treated using the appropriate kidney friendly diet, IV fluids, subcutaneous fluids done at home along with a few supplements.

Other Possible Causes-If you rule out major diseases or conditions, your veterinarian may ask you about any changes in the cat's routine or living conditions.  Cats can be sensitive to changes to their environment and may stop eating if feeling anxious or depressed.  Or perhaps they recently received a vaccination and is not feeling quite itself.  

Refusal of food can have significant consequences, and determining the underlying reason quickly is important.  Unlike dogs, cats can get very sick quickly from not eating and early intervention is key. Seek help from a veterinarian professional immediately if your cat stops being interested in eating. 

 Diet changes can help bring about relief very quickly.  Many cats that not feeling well are eating nothing but poultry and fish.  These protein sources, along with the grains and starches found in dry foods are hard to digest for many cats and can be a big allergen too.  Many times pet owners have tried various foods already so getting help from a professional can make a difference.  Ask Ariel Your Pet Nutritionist will provide a free diet suggestion custom tailored for you cat with your order. Be sure to include what you are currently feeding on the order form at checkout.

Top Five New Year Resolutions For You and Your Pet

The following are some of the most common resolutions people make this time of year. The same resolutions can  be good for your pet.

1. Exercise More
You
Many people do not get enough regular exercise, which can lead to long term health problems. Try to find something you enjoy and make realistic goals to include more physical activity into your life.
Your Pet
Regular exercise can keep your pet healthy too. Consider including your pet in your exercise goals. It can be fun and you both could benefit!

2. Improve your eating habits
You
Evaluate your current eating habits and make goal to improve.  It might be to lose weight or just improve the quality of your diet.
Your Pet
Evaluate your pet’s current diet. The quality of your pet’s diet is directly related to their health.  Pet obesity has been on the rise and leads to many other health problems can be life threatening for your pet. Also, many foods contain allergens that can be causing your pet problems too.

3. Detox your life
You
We all can benefit from detoxing our bodies and eliminating unhealthy substances from our environment. (Quit smoking, stop/limit drinking alcohol, reduce caffeine intake, use only natural cleaning agents, etc) 
Your Pet
Detox your pet’s environment. Your pet is just as susceptible to environmental toxins as you. Beware what products your pet comes in to contact with to protect them. Look at your pet products, but also your cleaning supplies and pesticides used in and around the home.

 4. Financial Checkup
You
Evaluate your finances and make sure you are spending your dollars wisely.
Your Pet
Being proactive with preventive care saves money. Preventive care for your pet will save you money. Providing a healthy, high quality, hypoallergenic diet, and supportive supplements (such as Power Probiotics for Pets and Amazing Omegas) can save you money in the long run by reducing your veterinarian expenses.

5. Spend more time with loved ones and have more FUN!
You
 Life gets busy and it is easy to get caught up in the day to day and forget to have fun. Make an effort to schedule quality time with those special to you and take time to enjoy life!
Your Pet
It is important for your pet to spend time with the ones they love.. When life get’s busy it is often our furry friends that get neglected. Our pets want and need our attention, neglect can often lead to negative behavior. Make it a goal to have more “fun time” with your pet.  Who knows, it might surprise you who has more fun!