Giving Thanks To Pet Rescuers and Owners of Special Needs Pets

 Wrangler

 Wishing Happy Holidays to all! Wrangler is a special needs rescue dog who has an esophageal disorder (cricopharyngeal achalasia) that requires a feeding tube and constant management by his Mom Gina. Ask Ariel friend Gina Gould is an acuscope therapist and her treatments, TLC and the dedicated support of Leashes of Love Rescue have given him a chance to live a "normal" life. Thanks to all the caring parents of special needs pets and the wonderful rescuers who save thousands of dogs and cats that would otherwise perish in the shelters.  Having a special needs pet is a lot of work and requires extra time that many of us don't have.  It's always a miracle when a doggie as special as this one is able to live out his life because of the incredible dedication of a group of people who are deeply dedicated to the welfare of animals.

Holistic Treatment for Perianal Fistulas in Dogs

Perianal fistulas, or anal furunculosis, is a condition in dogs that causes painful, ulcerated tracts or tunnels around the anus. They can be deep and may extend inward, causing discomfort and inflammation. Dogs with perianal fistulas often experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, discharge, and difficulty or discomfort during bowel movements.

Perianal fistulas can be a chronic and recurring condition, affecting certain breeds more commonly, such as German Shepherds, Irish Setters, Boxers, and Bulldogs. When the condition is mild you may not notice there is a problem, but as it continues to progress watch for signs of your pet straining to defecate, having blood in their feces, and a decrease in appetite. You might also notice that they excessively lick their tail and hindquarters, often leading to infection with chronic draining ulcers that can be very painful.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development:

• Immune system dysfunction - An abnormal immune response is thought to play a significant role in the development of perianal fistulas. Dogs with compromised immune systems or autoimmune disorders may be more susceptible to this condition.

• Chronic inflammation - Chronic inflammation of the perianal region, often due to underlying conditions such as allergies, infections, or anal sac disease, can contribute to the development of fistulas.

• Infections -Secondary bacterial or fungal infections in the perianal area can worsen the condition and contribute to the formation of fistulas.

• Dietary factors - Some research has suggested a potential link between diet and perianal fistulas. Specific dietary components or sensitivities may trigger or exacerbate the condition in susceptible individuals.

• Environmental factors - Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain irritants or allergens, may contribute to the development or progression of perianal fistulas.

What Is a Fistula?

A fistula is an abnormal connection or passageway that forms between two organs, vessels, or structures in the body that are not normally connected. This connection creates an unnatural channel, allowing fluids or substances to flow between these structures. Fistulas can occur in various parts of the body, not just the perianal area.  For example, anal sac fistulas are abnormal connections or tracts that form between the anal sacs and the skin surrounding the anus. This condition can cause discomfort, pain, and the formation of draining tracts that may ooze pus and blood.

Mild Vs Severe Perianal Fistulas

Fistulas can progress with symptoms becoming more severe which is why it is so important to seek treatment from a veterinarian early.  Mild perianal fistulas may just appear to be a pustule with erosions.  Severe cases can be bleeding sinus cavities with several draining tracts oozing blood and pus. The open sores can become swollen and red and the discharge from the fistulas generally has a strong foul odor.  

Treatment For Perianal Fistulas In Dogs

Perianal fistulas can be challenging to manage and require a comprehensive approach. Treatment often involves a combination of medications, topical treatments, hygiene, dietary adjustments, and natural supplements.  

• Treatment with prescription medications (oral and topical) can help temporarily clear up the infection.  Check with your veterinarian about using natural hypocholorous acid or silver sprays topically to help heal the sore areas.

• Diet Changes -A hypoallergenic, novel protein diet may help support your dog's overall health and immune system. Some pet owners have reported improvement in perianal fistula symptoms by avoiding common allergens or inflammatory ingredients. Common allergens for dogs may include grains, beef, and chicken. Artificial additives and preservatives can contribute to inflammation. Using a natural, minimally processed diet with fiber in the form of vegetables and pumpkin can help.

• Clipping of the perianal region to increase ventilation along with cleaning the area.  Use unscented baby wipes to keep your dog's butt clean.  Controlling bacteria is paramount when dealing with perianal fistulas in dogs.  Wash your dog's bedding regularly and encourage them to lie on soft mats instead of the floor or cement. 

Supplements For Perianal Fistulas in Dogs

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation associated with perianal fistulas.

• Probiotics - Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support digestive health and promote a balanced immune system. They may assist in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, potentially reducing inflammation and improving immune function.  Power Probiotic for Pets- replenishes good bacteria reducing the possibility of infection.

• Plant Sterols: Plant sterols have been studied for potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects and immune modulation.  By balancing the immune response and reducing inflammation, plant sterols may help alleviate symptoms associated with perianal fistulas. Immune Harmony contains natural plant sterols to help modulate and balance your dog's immune response.

• Herbal Remedies - Some herbal remedies, such as quercetin and olive leaf extract have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Topical application of silver spray may also help provide relief and promote healing.  AllerEaze and Olive Leaf Extract help reduce your dog's histamine response and fight infection.

• Hemp Extract – Hemp extract has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. These properties may offer some benefits for dogs with perianal fistulas by reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with the condition.  Happy Paws Drops contains 550mg of full spectrum hemp extract in an unflavored all-natural coconut oil base. Each 1oz bottle 100% organic. Made in the USA.  Happy Paws Drops can also help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with perianal fistulas.

If you suspect your dog may have perianal fistulas, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who can provide a proper diagnosis, determine the underlying causes, and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

Original Post Date:  12/19/2016

Revised:  2/19/2024

Green Vegetables Can Help Your Dog Maintain a Healthy Weight

Has your pup put on a few pounds? Winter is a common time for pets (as well as their owners) to gain weight. It may be caused from overindulgence or weather-related inactivity. Obesity in pets can be a serious problem leading to many health conditions including pancreatitis, diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems, and lean dogs tend to live longer (and healthier) lives.  To keep your pet's weight down,  feed a high-protein diet and add veggies.   Most weight reduction diets contain fiber fillers that at best contain controversial benefits and can be problematic to your pet's digestion.  "Healthy weight" diets are usually very high in carbohydrates, making the dog feel even hungrier faster as insulin levels spike.  To control appetite, use a REDUCED amount of a high protein food and add green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, zucchinni which contain valuable vitamins and minerals and help your pet feel full without consuming too many calories.  You can even use 1 part pet food to 2 parts vegetables for a large breed dog that is really hungry.  Also, special bowls are available that help slow down the dog's eating.

Natural UTI Remedy Helps Clumber Spaniel With Chronic UTIs

Natural Remedies can stop the cycle of chronic UTIs found in many senior female dogs.  Here is another happy dog who no longer has UTIs using   Ask Ariel’s Pet UTI Prevention Formula 

Sissy

Sissy is a female Clumber Spaniel who is nearly 13 years old and had suffered with frequent Urinary Tract Infections.  Her owner purchased the Pet UTI Prevention for Dogs and Cats and said “She (Sissy)  has been on your UTI Prevention and continues to be free of UTIs…our vet is surprised that “a natural remedy” works so well…Thank You So Much”  JoAnn White -Maine 2016

Digestive Enzymes Help Dog's Food Allergies and Upset Stomach

Bryn

Here is my little 13,  almost 14-year-old Welsh Terrier Bryn. She was the runt of a litter of EIGHT! and has been amazingly healthy though smaller than typical.  Her only issues have been major food allergies.  I feed her a homemade diet with a vet-made supplement and she also gets homemade treats (she loves my gluten-free ginger snaps!).  I started using the Ask Ariel Soothing Digestive Relief with every meal because the little scavenger that she is, she is often able to scrounge some of her big sister's treats or odd things she finds outside.  This capsule (I give her about 1/3 capsule with each of her two daily meals) has been perfect for eliminating the upset stomach she would awaken with after eating something forbidden.  Thanks so much for inventing it! 
Amanda McBride- North Carolina 2016

Food allergies are a common condition that effect many dogs.  The symptoms can vary from pet to pet, some dogs will have digestive problems like Bryn, but others will have skin issues and still others might have chronic inflammation that weakens their overall immune system. 
Visit our Askariel website for more nutritional information click here

Rescued Golden Retriever Recovers From Acid Reflux and Yeast Overgrowth

Dakota

"I want to let you know how great Dakota, our golden retriever that we rescued about 6 months ago, is doing.  When we got him, he had bad ear infections that he had for months, and his skin was so black in the armpit and groin areas that we thought it was ground in dirt.  He also had acid reflux and would bring up bile several times a day.  He obviously did not feel well and was in a lot of pain.  It has taken several months, but the blackened skin (from yeast) is almost back to normal thanks to K9 Yeast Defense.  The recommended dose made him extremely itchy so we give him ½ the dose.  It has been a slower but more comfortable process for him that way.  I wish we had taken “before” pictures of his skin because the difference is remarkable.  And, for his acid reflux, we had him on Pepcid initially.  When we first started your supplements (Power Probiotic, K9 Digestive Enzymes, Gastro ULC and Soothing Digestive Relief), we still had to give him the Pepcid, but we’ve been slowly weaning him off the Pepcid.  He had been taking 4 tablets a day at one point, and he is now down to a ½ tablet a day.  And I can’t forget to mention using your food recommendations.  His ears didn’t start to clear up until we got him eating food that he could tolerate.  We had an intolerance test done also and found that he cannot tolerate beef, chicken, lamb or salmon, all grains including rice, potatoes and sweet potatoes.  All of these are commonly used in dog food.  This is why they could not get the ear infections to clear up before we got him.  Thank you so much for your supplements and all your help.  Dakota is a much happier dog thanks to you!"

Pat & Tim- Emmaus, PA 2016 

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Do you know the warning signs of cancer?  Early diagnoses is key.  We have found that the best results in cancer patients occur when the pet owner was able to catch the cancer early (using laboratory testing) AND when a combination of both conventional and holistic medicine is used. While holistic veterinary medicine cannot cure cancer, it can make a tremendous difference.  The best way to help prevent cancer is to start at the beginning of your pet’s life, giving them optimal nutrition, vitamins, Omega 3s and building a sound immune system. Click here to learn more about holistic care treatments.

Warning Signs of Cancer In Pets

• Difficulty eating or swallowing

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow

• Sores that do not heal

• Weight loss and/or loss of appetite

• Pet just not acting like himself, behavior changes

• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

• Persistent lameness or stiffness

• Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina

Diabetic Husky With Pancreatitis Improves With Digestive Enzymes

We just received this wonderful report for beautiful Emma, a senior Husky with pancreatitis.

Emma

"We got some great news today...our (almost) 13 y/o diabetic Siberian Husky "daughter" Emma just got a positive report regarding her pancreatitis.  Her levels, which were almost 1,000 are now normal.  I have got to credit your LypoZyme capsules for contributing to this.   Emma is also a "new dog" as far as her activity level is concerned and we can tell that she is feeling good. 

You have a customer as long as we are blessed with Emma as a family member. The picture was taken only last week.

Errol - Phoenix, Arizona 2016

Lypozyme for Pets- helps break down food and improve digestion. It is especially helpful for pets with pancreatitis, liver disease, diabetes and those needing help with fat absorption.

Holistic Supplements Improve Yorkie's Elevated Liver Enzymes

Bailey Rose

"I just wanted to give you an update on my Yorkie Bailey Rose.  Bailey Rose had high ALT levels and an abscess on her liver.  Her last blood work before starting the Pancreatitis and Liver Support Kit showed liver enzymes 4 times what they should be and her WBC was 40,000. She continued on her antibiotics (for a bacterial infection) and started the Kit on Oct 1 as soon as I received it. I took her for her recheck yesterday (a few weeks later) and the vet called today and was amazed that all her levels including WBC were all in normal levels and after losing a pound she has got back to her normal weight!  Even though she is almost 13 she is doing wonderful and acting like a puppy again. I also changed her food to the natural blend fish and sweet potato Ask Ariel suggested and she loves it. Thank you so much for helping me to help my sweet baby.   Cherie  Indiana 2016"

November 1st is National Cook for Your Pet Day

New Cyprus Magazine

Every pet has their specific individual nutritional needs and one diet does not fit all.  For a pet owner it can be very confusing. Should I give a raw diet, commercial canned or dry food, home-cooked, or a combination of any of the above? It is important to work with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your pet. However, on this national Cook for Your Pet day we thought we would give you a few food ideas that you can incorporate into your pet’s diet for added nutritional benefit. Some items can be “cooked” and others given fresh..try to maintain as much nutritional value as possible (don’t overcook). For more diet tips visit our website Askariel.com.

Foods to consider “cooking” for your pet

• Steamed Green Beans- or frozen as a treat
• Zucchini
• Baby Carrots
• Chopped Broccoli
• Baked fish, venison, other lean meats (if pet isn't allergic)
• Pumpkin- adds fiber to their diet

Note- make sure any item is safe to be consumed by your pet. Certain foods (such as chocolate and onions) can be toxic.  Here is a link to American Kennel Club for toxic foods. Also, make sure you consider any health conditions your pet may have, such as: weight issues, diabetes, kidney disease, pancreatitis and Cushing disease to name a few.  Remember…”You are what you eat" goes for your pet too!

Three Excuses For Not Walking Your Dog and How To Overcome Them

1.  Too tired after coming home from work and just want to relax

Tip:  Taking even a short walk can re-energize you and help you leave work behind for the evening.  You will feel better if you get it out of the way right when you walk in the door.  Have the leash and shoes waiting and just do it!  Or try walking before work if that is possible.  A little walk in the morning always helps make a day brighter.

2.  No time--too busy!

Tip:  Each week take a look at your schedule.  Ask yourself "when could I squeeze in a 15 minute walk?".  Put a few walks on your calendar:   Date with Buddy.  C'mon you can do it!

3.  My dog gets plenty of exercise in the yard all day.

Tip:  When a dog is left in the yard, most of the time all they do is sleep.  Dogs are pack animals and want to be with you.  Going for a walk is a lot more than exercise for a dog.  Think of it as "reading the newspaper".  Dogs love to cruise the neighborhood, sniff all around and mark their territory.  It's also special bonding time with you that they may not get any other time of the day. 

Helping Rescued Senior Dogs

Have you ever shared your bed with your beloved pet only to realize you were on the very edge and they had all the covers?  Now multiply that by seven and you can picture what Chris and Mariesa Hughes were facing every night sharing a bed with their seven rescue dogs.  After nights of couch sleeping the Hughes’ came up with a solution that made everyone happy…they created the Megabed!

The Megabed measures just under 14' x 7' with added steps so the senior dogs do not need to jump up

Chris and Mariesa Hughes are founders of The Mr. Mo Project, a nonprofit with a mission to rescue elderly and sick dogs from shelters (saving them from possible euthanasia) and placing them in homes to live the rest of their life in a home filled with love.  Mr. Mo Project also covers the dog’s medical and living expenses. 

How To Help Prevent Cat-Scratch Fever

This month the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (CDC) has released results from a study that shows an increase in serious complications from “cat-scratch” disease (also known as cat-scratch fever). It is a disease spread through contact (usually scratches or bites)with infected cats or cat fleas (carrier of the disease) However, it important to note that the bacterium causing the disease, called Bartonella henselae, is not present in most cats.

According to the report approximately 12,000 people were diagnosed with cat-scratch disease during the study period, of which 500 required hospitalizations. Young children, those with compromised immune systems and the elderly seem to be at higher risk of having complications.

Good hygiene is the key here.  The CDC advises people to wash hands thoroughly after playing with their cats and to treat cat scratches (or bites) promptly to avoid infection. If you notice swelling or redness seek medical attention. The disease can be treated with antibiotics.

Sources: cbsnews.com,usa today, cdc 

Bloodhound Finishes Half Marathon To Her Owner's Surprise

Love this story ...Has your pet ever surprised you with new talents you didn't know before? Last winter, Ludivine, a bloodhound, decided to join the Elkmont Half Marathon in Alabama to the surprise of her owner.  Ludivine lives on a farm near the starting line for the race and decided to investigate all the commotion. As the gun sounded, to start the race, she took off with the other racers and ran the entire 13.1 miles and finished 7th!  Of course she had a couple of stops, sniffing some road kill and taking a dip and drink from a nearby pond. There is talk of next year’s race being called the Hounddog Half with special recognition for 7^th place. What a wonderful surprise for Ludivine's owner!  For the whole story as told to Runner's World click here

What wonderful ways has your pet surprised you?  Email us at support@askariel.com

Is Your Pet Overweight?

 

Is your pet overweight or obese?

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), an estimated 58% of cats and 54% of dogs in the United States are indeed overweight or obese. Obesity can lead to an array of medical issues and addressing the issue, sooner rather than later, can have a huge impact for your pet.

PRIMARY RISKS OF EXCESS WEIGHT IN PETS  
Osteoarthritis
Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Heart and Respiratory Disease
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury
Kidney Disease
Many Forms of Cancer
Decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years)

How do I know if my pet needs to lose weight?
Here are a couple of tests you can do at home. You can also visit APOP's website, or speak to your veterinarian to determine your pet’s ideal weight.

• Run your hands across the chest of the dog or cat. You should always be able to feel their ribs but not see them. There should never be a layer of fat over the ribs.
• Look at the standing dog or cat from a bird's eye view. They should have what looks like a waist that tucks in right in front of the hips

 
Susan Davis, our Ask Ariel nutritionist, gives these tips to get pets back into shape:
• Control portions. Look at everything you are feeding your pet -- pet food, treats and human food -- and reduce the amount. Use proper measuring tools. Also, food packages will recommend portions by weight ranges. Use the weight range of the overweight pet's ideal weight, not its current weight. And use the lowest suggested amount for that range. For example, if the manufacturer recommends two to three cups for dogs over 30 pounds, give the dog two cups.

• Control quality. Don't feed your pet human junk food like pizza or sweets such as baked goods, ice cream or cookies. Home-prepared meals using fresh ingredients are acceptable, Davis says. Wholesome items such as brown rice, fresh lean meats and carrots are recommended. Be sure to avoid the human foods that can be toxic to cats and dogs: grapes/raisins, mushrooms, chocolate and coffee. Tomatoes and garlic can also be toxic for cats.

• Increase exercise. Get into the habit of walking your dog every day. Getting outdoors is good for a pet's emotional health, too, giving it a chance to make social contact and find out what is going on in the neighborhood. Most dogs love to play fetch and some love to swim. Cats can stay active indoors by actively playing with their toys and “hunting” for food.

We Say Goodbye To Tally

Tally

We received sad news that Tally, a long time furry client, passed away. He was a Beagle/Golden Retriever mix that had a diagnosis of anal gland cancer in 2011.  He also had a lifelong issue with IBS and later liver disease. His owner, Michelle, shared these thoughts with us.

"Tally has passed on after a huge decline in health during his last week of life.  Tally was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 11. While several people thought I should put him down, I would never do that without a fight.....this is when I discovered Ask Ariel.  Susan Blake Davis recommended a diet and supplements that dramatically improved Tally's quality of life that allowed him to beat the odds and live an additional 5-1/2 years to the age of almost 16. Susan Blake Davis is gifted and amazing!  Up until 2 weeks before Tally passed on, he was doing fast runs around the house. I will be forever thankful for Ask Ariel."

Michelle, Pennsylvania 2016

Tally’s supplements included:

• InflammatoryBowel Disease Kit
• Gastro ULC
• K-9 DigestiveEnzymes
• Amazing Omegas
• Oxicell SE
• Pancreatitis and Liver Support Kit

Dog Gallbladder Mucocele Problems Get Better With Supplements

"I wanted to share with you that last year Miss Ladybug was diagnosed with a possible Gallbladder Mucocele and the vet put her on Ursodiol but it made her very sick, so instead she has been taking the Liver & Gallbladder Supplement, Power Probiotics, and Lypozyme everyday faithfully. We just had another ultrasound check and this time they said everything looks good, that they wouldn’t even say that it's a Mucocele anymore - it just looks like a gallbladder and hasn't gotten bigger. Her blood work was also wonderful - kidneys and liver (everything actually) were in range. Not bad for a 13 year old puppy mill rescue :) They did find a little irritation in the intestines that they feel could be IBD so I knew right away that I would be getting your Soothing Digestive Relief formula this time too. Thank you so much for your amazing products because I truly believe they have extended my baby's life!"

Marissa M. Colorado 2016

Symptoms of A Gallbladder Mucocele

Watch for signs such as:

• decreased appetite
• anorexia
• lethargy
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a yellowish tinge to the skin or gums
• abdominal pain 

 Be sure to contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of these symptoms.  Gallbladder problems  can be improved with diet and supplements. 

Beagle Finds Relief from Coughing and Gagging

Daisy and Precious

"My dog Holly who was featured in a past article, passed on from a collapsed trachea.  I heard about your supplement (for collapsed trachea) about two weeks after she died to my dismay.  She had a full blood work done when she started coughing and it came back wonderful due to the supplements she was on (for liver disease).  They were amazed!  Well my other dog Daisy... has always gagged after drinking and recently started coughing occasionally when she lies down. It shook me up because that is how Holly started a year ago. I immediately purchased your ultra-flex collagen.  She has been taking it for a few weeks now and I noticed she doesn't gag anymore.  Listen she has been gagging each time she drank for 2 1/2 years and now she isn't. It is very hard for me not to think I could have saved Holly if I had only known, but I am happy I've found ultra-flex collagen for Daisy. 

I want to thank you again for another great product!"

Lori Baier-Pennsylvania 2016

Collapsed trachea is a progressive condition that affects any breed, but often small dog breeds such as yorkies, maltese, pomeranian, chihuahas, pugs and shih tzus. The disease can cause coughing, gagging and respiratory problems. Our clients have found using  Amazing Omegas and Ultra-Flex Collagen For Pets to strengthen trachea cartilage and can reduce overall coughing/gagging.

Holly

Lori first came to our website seeking help for Holly’s pancreatitis. The supplements she found helpful were in our Pancreatitis and Liver Support Kit. 

Tips To Minimize Your Pet's Stress When You Travel

Taking one last trip for the summer?  It's so hard to leave our pets behind when we travel.  Here are a few tips to relieve stress on your pet:

•  Consider a pet sitter instead of taking your pet to a boarding facility.  Ask your vet, neighbors and friends about who they use when they travel. Keeping your pet in a comfortable environment is key.  For ex: Rover.com offers pet sitters in many locations that you can research and meet beforehand. 
• If you do have to take your pet to a facility, ask about doggie day care.  Even if your pet has never been to doggie day care, many pets enjoy the companionship and activity that doggie day care can provide.  Avoid if possible, leaving your pet in a cage with minimal contact.  See about extended walks if your dog isn't social.
•  Bring your pet's regular food to the boarding facility (divided into normal meals). Pets have sensitive stomachs so keeping their diet consistent and providing supportive supplements such as: Power Probiotic for Pets, Soothing Digestive Relief for Pets, or K-9 Digestive Enzymes can help minimize the occurrence of problems during their stay.
•  Make sure to leave any necessary items that will help keep your pet be calm and happy while you are gone.  (Perhaps a special toy or blanket)  
• If you give your pets supplements, put them in separate meal baggies to make it easy for the caregiver to administer.  For ex: breakfast packets, dinner packets etc
•  Make sure to leave all emergency numbers including:  your contact phone number, a local emergency contact, and your veterinarian.
• Make some special treats for your pet using food they already consume (don't try new foods while you are away!).  For ex:  stuff a kong ball with canned food and freeze or bake treats from regular canned food.