Golden Retriever is Scratching and Itching Constantly

Updated 3/29/24

Reposted from 6/2010

Q: Dear Ariel: My 5-year-old Golden Retriever Ginger is scratching, chewing and itching constantly. I can't sleep because she wakes me up shaking the bed. She licks at her private parts and has some small red sores on her tummy. I am feeding her a good dog food and bring her to the veterinarian but he just keeps giving her more antibiotics and shots. Is there anything else I can do?

A: So sorry to hear that Ginger is scratching and itching. This can be a big problem, especially during the springtime when there is a lot of pollen.  For immediate relief, it is important that you do bring Ginger back to your veterinarian as you don't want her to have her infections get worse. You want to be sure that Ginger doesn't have any dog skin infections like yeast or a bacterial hot spot which can spread quickly.   

It's important to understand why Ginger is so itchy. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to allergies.  This can make them more sensitive to food and environmental allergens. Common allergens for dogs include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, certain foods, and even flea bites. Allergies in Golden Retrievers can manifest in various ways, such as itching, scratching, skin irritation, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues. Treatment options may include medications, dietary changes and natural supplements.   

How Can You Help Ginger?

To help Ginger stop itching and scratching, you can try changing her diet and using a few natural remedies to control yeast and allergies. A hypoallergenic, low-carb diet can be beneficial for Golden Retrievers and other dogs with allergies.  Remove common food allergens like corn, grains, wheat, chicken, beef, peanut butter, etc from her diet. Also, dogs that eat dry kibble may have additional itching problems because dry food can sometimes contribute to yeast overgrowth as well. Here is a sample of a healthy, hypoallergenic, low-carb diet. 

 Wondering What To Feed Your Golden Retriever With Allergies?

Diet For Dogs With Allergies (show photo of raw diet with fish)

Here is an example of a healthy diet that may help your golden retriever. It includes baked salmon, raw rabbit patty, dandelion greens, artichoke hearts, Amazing Omegas, okra, asparagus, carrots and broccoli.  Adding vegetables to your pet's meals provides unrivaled nutrition including fiber, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. 

Every dog's needs are different and if your dog has to be on a special diet such as a low fat diet or one for another health condition like kidney disease, check with your veterinarian to make diet adjustments. 

In addition to a hypoallergenic diet, you would want to also give Ginger some supplements to help support her immune system and give her much needed relief from her symptoms. Supplements containing quercetin, fish oil and probiotics are helpful.

Author: Susan Davis, 

Original Post: 6/16/10

Updated: 3/29/24

Rabbit and Venison Game Meats Offer A Hypoallergenic Diet For Pets

Updated 4/1/24

Does your pet have itchy and inflamed skin, recurrent infections or digestive issues such as: vomiting, diarrhea and loose stools?

All can be signs of a food allergy from a repeat exposure to an allergen which causes the immune system to overreact. Often the offender is the protein source in the allergic food and your pet's immune system needs a break.  Changing your pet's diet to a low carbohydrate canned or raw frozen novel protein food can be very helpful.  (Dry food is high in carbohydrates and can still be problematic.)

So, what is a novel protein? It is simply a protein your pet has never consumed before.  The most common food allergens in cats are fish, poultry and grains--ingredients commonly found in most pet foods.   While some "hypoallergenic" pet foods may simply replace chicken with turkey or duck, what we have discovered (after years of treating pets with food allergies) is that it's best to switch food families in their entirety.  This is because the allergic reaction can include all protein sources within a particular family as they may be very similar in their molecular structure.  For example, many people believe that goat milk is fine for their pet even though their pet is allergic to cow milk.  The reality is that the two forms of milk are very close in structure just as chickens are very similar to ducks and it's best to play it safe and try a completely different food family. When it comes to food allergies, when in doubt, avoid the food temporarily and then at a later time, you can try to reintroduce and see how your pet responds.  

Two novel protein sources to consider that have worked well for many allergic pets are rabbit and venison.  Some pets that have allergies to beef and lamb may not fare as well with venison, so for severely allergic pets, rabbit may work best.  (Allergy testing is also available through your veterinarian which can help determine if your pet might be able to tolerate either of these.)

Benefits of Rabbit

• A lean all-white meat protein that offers great nutrition.
• Higher in protein than chicken, turkey, beef, duck and lamb and contains essential amino acids that help build lean muscles and boost immune system.
• Low in saturated fats, but contains healthy fats which help provide a shiny coat and healthy joints
• Contains Vitamin B12 which supports a healthy nervous system.

Benefits of Venison

• Lower in fat than most other meat protein sources (such as beef and pork) and usually highly digestible
• Good source of B vitamins, zinc, phosphorous and iron.
• Can be used in homemade low-fat diets as it is more available in grocery stores.

Rabbit and venison can be found in all food forms, but for allergies, we recommend raw frozen and canned.  Several brands such as Instinct and Stella and Chewys have a freeze-dried version with the exact same ingredients as the raw frozen.  These work well crumbled into treats or as an initial introduction as you transition your pet's diet. 

There are also a few brands of rabbit and venison treats.  Remember though, a lot of dry foods and treats may contain venison or rabbit, but they are still loaded with starchy carbohydrates which won't give your pet the same great results as using a low carbohydrate raw frozen diet.

For more tips on feeding your pet a healthy diet click here.

Author Susan Davis

Original post 3/2/17

Updated 4/1/24

Stress Can Be A Cause Of Acid Stomach In Pets

Roo The Anxious Husky Before We Adopted Him

Published: 3/29/2024

Pictured above is our sad and nervous rescued husky Roo before we adopted him.  He was found tied to a gate in South Central LA emaciated at 39 pounds.  Rescuers did manage to put weight on him but he was so scared he didn't want to eat very much.  When we adopted Roo, we immediately noticed that he didn't want to eat anything until the end of the day.  He was very thin and coughed repeatedly when he drank water.  During the day, we offered him all kinds of homemade meals but he would barely touch it.  Then when evening came around, he would eat more enthusiastically.

What we learned was that Roo suffered from terrible acid stomach.  There are a lot of causes of acid stomach such as food intolerances, poor diet and bowel disorders, but in Roo's case we believe his was greatly triggered by stress.  He was such a nervous dog and it was clear he had been abused by someone who used food to lure him and then punished him.  It's also possible that Roo had digestive problems as a puppy and that the owner had no tolerance for them which made his regurgitation and acid stomach even worse.  What Roo needed was a calm environment where he could eat and feel safe.  

One of the hallmark signs of acid reflux in dogs is when the dog doesn't want to eat in the morning.  Many pet owners may simply think that they will let the dog eat when he wants to. The problem with that is the longer the absence of food, the more acid reflux pain builds up and the more irritation occurs in the stomach and esophageal lining.  The coughing Roo experienced when drinking water was due to esophageal irritation from acid build up. We found that by encouraging him to eat something....anything, his coughing and williingness to eat a little bit throughout the day improved greatly.  Today, Roo does eat breakfast, but not as enthusiastically as he eats later in the day.  Foods that he would nibble on in the morning: raw goat milk, homemade salmon or chicken, raw freeze dried treats.  

Just as when we get nervous, we may experience discomfort in our stomach, so can pets. Working with your veterinarian to identify and treat acid stomach symptoms like gagging, regurgitation, excessive grass eating and vomiting bile.  Keep in mind though, that pets prone to acid reflux can have their symptoms exacerbated by stress, for example going to the vet or in the car.  Feeding them a small meal and using digestive support supplements can greatly relieve their discomfort.  

Author:  Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Date:  3/29/2024

Originally Published 6/24/2021

Why You Should Get Chest X-Rays For Your Dog Or Cat

If you have a senior pet, it's important to get chest X-rays, even if your pet seems fine. Chest xrays can be costly but they can provide invaluable life-saving information for your pet. Radiographs of the chest can help identify respiratory and heart conditions, collapsed trachea, asthma, and pneumonia. They are essential to help screen for cancer as it often metastasizes to the lungs.

In our case, chest X-rays gave us more time with our beloved senior dog Legend and finally provided us with the answer for why Legend wasn't acting like himself. Legend hadn't been eating well and we did bloodwork, urinary and GI tests but they weren't showing much of anything. It was a chest X-ray that saved his life. Dr. Gordon our veterinarian discovered a giant 4 pound mass in his chest and did surgery the next day. He was able to remove the mass and 13 year old Legend was able to make it another 1 1/2 years as a result. As you can see from the picture below, 14 1/2 year old was still with us in January 2023 because the chest X-ray showed the large tumor on his liver.

Pet Nutritionist Susan Davis With Her Husky Legend

What are chest X-rays? Chest X-rays, also known as thoracic radiographs, are an important diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine used to evaluate the heart, lungs, and surrounding structures in dogs and cats. These images provide valuable information about the size, shape, and position of organs within the chest cavity, as well as identifying abnormalities such as tumors, fluid accumulation, or signs of respiratory disease.

One significant reason why most veterinary pet care packages include chest X-rays for senior pets is the increased risk of cancer in older animals. The chest is a common area where cancer metastasizes, meaning cancer cells from primary tumors elsewhere in the body (e.g from the liver) can spread to the lungs. By performing routine chest X-rays, veterinarians can detect metastatic cancerous lesions early. Sometimes a pet may not have any outward signs of cancer yet, but the chest X-ray can help lead to the identification of the primary tumor outside of the lungs. Early detection of cancer can often improve treatment outcomes for your pet. One benefit of chest X-rays is that they are non-invasive and easy to do without anesthesia. When our dear Legend had liver cancer, it was a way for us to assess his progress without having to give him anesthesia for a CT-Scan. Regular monitoring of the chest with X-rays can help track the progression of existing conditions such as collapsed trachea or heart disease. Including chest X-rays in senior pet care packages is a proactive approach to managing the health of aging animals and addressing potential concerns before they become more advanced or difficult to treat. X-rays may seem like a big investment, but they are often the only way your vet can determine the right diagnosis and treatment for your pet.

Author: Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Published 3/27/2024

Natural Treatments for Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia

Updated & Revised: 3/20/2024

Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia is a congenital liver disorder characterized by abnormal development of the blood vessels within the liver.  It appears more predominantly in certain breeds like Yorkies, Maltese, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians,  Miniature Schnauzers, Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels and Poodles.  Essentially, the tiny blood vessels (microvasculature) in the liver are malformed, leading to inadequate blood flow and impaired liver function. This can result in a range of symptoms and complications, including liver failure if left untreated.

Symptoms of Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia

The symptoms of Hepatic microvascular dysplasia can vary  depending on the severity of the condition. Symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Lethargy

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• Vomiting

• Increased thirst and urination

• Abdominal swelling or discomfort

These symptoms can be subtle and easily overlooked, especially in the early stages of the disease. 

Diagnosing HMD typically involves a combination of clinical signs, blood tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound), and sometimes liver biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, management of the condition focuses on supportive care and minimizing stress on the liver. In severe cases where liver function is significantly compromised, more intensive treatments such as fluid therapy or blood transfusions may be considered.

The Inspiring Story Of Sprocket

Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia Success Story

Sprocket

Here is an inspiring story about Sprocket! She is an adorable 12-year-old Pomeranian, who outlived her prognosis of Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia by 6 years!  Sprocket's Mom is a dedicated pet parent who used a holistic approach along with conventional veterinary treatments.  The veterinarian had projected that Sprocket might survive an additional 2 years when she was diagnosed. 

 Sprocket's story:

"My beautiful 12-year-old Pomeranian Sprocket has been doing great on a homemade diet and supplements. When she was four years old, Sprocket was diagnosed with Microvascular Liver Dysplasia which was not correctable through surgery, and we were told she would only live maybe two more years. We were very concerned about how to give her a good quality of life. We wanted to use natural treatments as much as possible and found Ask Ariel.  Ask Ariel provided us with a diet suggestion and supplements that have kept Sprocket going strong.  It is now 8 years that we have been following this regimen for Sprocket and it has been wonderful to see how well she is doing.  The Ask Ariel supplements we have  given her for liver support are:   Kidney Health (as well as another liver support supplement from the vet), and fish oil. As she got older and started limping, we started her on Curcumin for Pets, Arthrosoothe and Ultra-Flex for her collapsing trachea. Sprocket is feeling well and we are so happy we took this holistic approach. Everyone thinks she is far younger than she is and she often acts like a puppy. We sincerely believe that Sprocket has the looks and life that she does due to her diet and supplements from Ask Ariel. We tell everyone with a pet about Ask Ariel."  (Sprocket's story continues below) M. Matsumoto - New MexicoDiagnosis and Management

 Natural Treatment For Hepatitic Microvascular Dysplasia In Dogs 

Dietary management: Dogs with liver disease need a low-fat, high-fiber diet with moderate protein. They often have allergies too because they have difficulty processing and clearing toxins.  To minimize the workload on your pet's liver, it is important to avoid high-allergen foods such as beef and choose more hypoallergenic, low fat proteins like fish and venison.  Feeding your dog foods that contain antioxidants such as green vegetables and carrots is helpful to support liver health.

Natural Supplements

Supplements can play a supportive role in managing Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia (HMD) by aiding liver function and reducing inflammation. They may also be used to help manage specific symptoms.

S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM-e): SAM-e is a compound that supports liver function by promoting the production of glutathione, an antioxidant that helps protect liver cells from damage. It may also help reduce inflammation and improve bile flow. Ask Ariel's Special SAMe is a powerful antioxidant scientifically proven and widely prescribed for osteoarthritis, liver support and detoxification, and cognitive disorders. It is especially important to use if your dog is taking pain or anti-inflammatory medications, which can negatively affect your dog's liver function.

Milk Thistle: Milk thistle contains an active ingredient called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to help protect liver cells from damage and promote regeneration. Liver Support is a comprehensive pet liver support supplement that includes natural time-tested ingredients like milk thistle and artichoke. These natural herbs are scientifically proven to support healthy liver function and bile flow. A small amount of powder from the capsule sprinkled on food can help to detoxify your pet from toxins. Helps reduce elevated liver enzymes, increase glutathione levels and improve liver and gallbladder health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the liver. They can also support overall health and well-being. PureOcean Wild Omegas is especially helpful for small dogs and cats! Contains omega-3 fatty acids from sardines, anchovies and mackerel wild-caught from the ocean. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for pets with Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help protect liver cells from oxidative damage. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and may be beneficial for dogs with liver disease, as they may be at increased risk of bleeding disorders.

Antioxidants: Other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin A may also be beneficial in supporting liver health and reducing oxidative stress.

B vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate, are important for liver function and may help support energy metabolism and cell regeneration.

Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia is a complex condition that requires careful management and monitoring to ensure the best possible quality of life for affected dogs. While there is no cure for HMD, early detection and following a holistic approach to treatment can can help slow disease progression and minimize complications.

Author: Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Updated and Revised: 3/20/2024

Originally Published: 1/4/2027

SAVE ON PET SUPPLEMENTS--FREE SHIPPING!

*Reduced Shipping For Product Orders Over $150 

Republished:  3/19/2024

Are you looking to save on pet supplements? AskAriel.com has been a trusted source of premium pet supplements and expert pet nutrition tips since 2005.  We are dedicated to providing  natural and effective solutions to help your pets live their happiest, healthiest lives. Our pet supplements are of the highest quality, meticulously sourced without compromise, yet offer exceptional value for pet owners. 

Our wide range of pet supplements are carefully crafted to address a variety of common health concerns in cats and dogs. Whether your pet is struggling with digestive issues, joint pain, skin allergies, or any other health condition, we have products designed to support their wellbeing from the inside out. Our products are 3rd party tested and GMP  (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified, ensuring the highest quality standards and safety for your pet's health and peace of mind. GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification demonstrates our commitment to following stringent guidelines throughout the manufacturing process, from sourcing ingredients to final product formulation.  Rest assured, with our cat and dog supplements, you can trust in their purity, potency, and reliability for your pet's wellbeing.

We are also committed to helping pet owners save money and get the best value while prioritizing their pet's health. We understand that providing the best care for your pet can come with financial challenges, which is why we offer a range of money-saving opportunities.  With our exclusive coupons, you can enjoy perks like free shipping on selected products, free shipping on orders over $150, and discounts on product kits such as our Immune Support Kit and IBD Kit.  Our supplements come in extra-strength capsules, enabling pet owners to get increased value for their money.  Many of our products offer 3 -4 month supply for small to medium sized pets.  These savings make it easier than ever to invest in your pet's wellness without breaking the bank.

At AskAriel.com, we're a community of passionate pet lovers dedicated to helping your pets thrive.  With every order, we provide complimentary diet tips to ensure you achieve the best results for your cat or dog. Our goal is to help you experience the transformative effects  natural pet supplements can have in your pet's life. Join the ranks of thousands of satisfied pet owners, including veterinarians, who rely on AskAriel.com for our superior quality supplements and invaluable diet advice.

Originally Published 11/2009

Revised and Updated 3/2024

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

Natural Remedies For Panosteitis In Dogs

Panosteitis, often referred to as "growing pains" is a common condition seen primarily in young, rapidly growing large and giant breed dogs. While it's not life-threatening, panosteitis can cause significant discomfort and lameness in affected dogs. While conventional treatments such as anti-inflammatories and pain medications may be necessary initially to ease your puppies growing pains, many dog owners seek natural and holistic therapies to complement traditional veterinary care.

Understanding Canine Panosteitis 

Panosteitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the long bones in a dog's legs, particularly the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, and tibia. This inflammation typically occurs in dogs between the ages of five and twelve months, during their rapid growth phase. Breeds commonly affected by panosteitis include German Shepherds, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers, although it can occur in any large or giant breed dog.

Symptoms of Panosteitis In Dogs

• Limping or lameness, which may shift from one leg to another

• Difficulty rising or reluctance to engage in physical activity

• Pain or sensitivity when the affected leg is touched

• Swelling or warmth around the affected area

• Decreased appetite or activity level

Natural Treatments For Dog Panosteitis

While conventional treatments like anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by veterinarians are often necessary to manage the inflammation and pain associated with panosteitis, some natural therapies can complement these treatments and support overall joint health. Here are some holistic approaches that dog owners may consider:

Supplements 

Natural supplements for dog pano play a crucial role in supporting joint health and reducing inflammation associated with panosteitis. Incorporating the following supplements into your dog's diet can provide significant benefits.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in dogs with panosteitis. They support joint health and contribute to overall well-being. PureOcean Wild Omegas contains omega-3 fatty acids from sardines, anchovies and mackerel wild-caught from the ocean. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for pets with cancer. PureOcean Wild Omega softgels are convenient for pet owners who travel with their pets or need to provide supplements on the go. 

Collagen: As a major component of cartilage, collagen is essential for maintaining joint integrity and mobility. Supplementing with collagen can promote cartilage repair and improve joint function in dogs suffering from panosteitis. Our Ultra-Flex Collagen for Pets – A natural “whole-food” supplement that strengthens cartilage, rebuilds connective tissue and supports joint health. Collagen is the "cellular glue" that is found in the bones, muscles, skin, tendons, and digestive tract of your pet.  As pets age, natural collagen production declines and can lead to decreased elasticity and stability in the joints, muscles and connective tissue. 

Joint Support Formulas: Products containing a combination of glucosamine, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), and chondroitin sulfate are widely used to support joint health in dogs. These ingredients work synergistically to reduce inflammation, promote cartilage repair, and improve mobility. ArthroStride has scientifically proven ingredients like MSM, glucosamine, green-lipped mussels, collagen, resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and curcumin offers comprehensive support for dogs with Panostetis. These ingredients reduce inflammation, support cartilage integrity, and provide antioxidant protection against oxidative stress in the joints. By relieving pain and discomfort and improving joint mobility. 

Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Adding turmeric to your dog's diet can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support overall joint health. Ask Ariel's  K9 CurcuMagic is a scientifically proven, natural anti-inflammatory for dogs that contains a patented combination of three curcuminoids, along with turmeric essential oil. These are the strongest, most protective and best-researched constituents of the herb turmeric that act as powerful free-radical scavengers.  K9 CurcuMagic is especially bioavailable (pets can get the most benefit) because of the added essential oil, to improve absorption. 

Hemp Extract CBD Oil: CBD oil derived from hemp contains cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain perception and inflammation. CBD oil has shown promise in reducing pain and inflammation in dogs with various conditions, including panosteitis. Ask Ariel's Happy Paws Hemp Extract Drops is a high-quality hemp CBD oil that can help improve your pet’s overall well-being.  Just a few drops of this non-psychoactive tincture is an effective way to reduce anxiety, inflammation and relieve pain. Happy Paws is a full-spectrum hemp oil containing CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBDA.  Rigorous independent laboratory testing 

 

Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and alleviate pain. In dogs with panosteitis, acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow to affected areas, and promote the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving hormones.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy techniques such as massage, stretching exercises, hydrotherapy, and low-impact exercises can benefit dogs with panosteitis in several ways. These therapies help improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, alleviate muscle tension, and promote overall physical well-being.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for dogs with panosteitis to minimize stress on their joints and reduce the severity of symptoms. A balanced diet tailored to your dog's nutritional needs and regular exercise can help prevent excess weight gain and support overall joint health.

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

Published:  3/19/2023

All treatment protocols have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian