Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

What is wrong with my dog? Why does he have episodes of snorting and gagging? These comments describe what is commonly called "Reverse Sneezing".  Reverse sneezing is when the pet is pulling air rapidly in vs. a regular sneeze when air is pushed out through the nose.  It is not know exactly why these episodes occur, but it thought to be an irritation of the  soft palate, which results in a spasm.  It could be caused from many factors including: eating or drinking, exercise, allergies, post-nasal drip, and irritating chemicals (cleaners, air fresheners, perfumes). 

A reverse sneezing episode can be scary and last for several seconds, and may make the owner think they are choking or having an asthma attack,  but is not usually considered harmful. However, if your pet has frequent episodes, it is a good idea to visit your vet to rule out other causes (collapsing trachea, nasal tumors or polyps, foreign bodies in the nasal passages or mouth). To help halt the episode, try massaging your pet's throat to stop the spasm or covering your pet’s nostrils very briefly. 

If your pet has other signs of allergies (scratching, licking, chewing at the paws, etc), then post-nasal drip may be the culprit.  Using K9 Yeast Defense and Power Probiotic along with AllerEaze can help.   Yeast is often a contributor to skin problems, ear infections and genital licking.  Yeast congregates in moist areas such as the throat and mucous membranes.  Diets high in carbohydrates such as grains and starchy foods can contribute to yeast overgrowth.

How Attached Are Your To Your Dog?

A Study conducted with coordination between Canisius College, University of Chicago, and University of Pennsylvania, questioned 60 dog owning families, with both parents and children. The purpose of the study was to look at the human-animal attachment.  The participants were asked not only about how attached they felt to their dog, but also their level of responsibility for the pet (feeding, walking, and general care) plus how they rated their pet's behaviors (trainability, aggression, stranger fear, separation problems and attention seeking actions).

What the study found:

• Perhaps not surprising, those that had the most positive feelings and had the highest level of attachment, were also the ones that provided the most care taking responsibility  for the dog. 
• They also found that the more well-behaved and social the pet, regardless of gender and age, the owners had more positive feelings. 
• Adults also tended to feel more attachment to dogs that demonstrated attention-seeking behavior.  This was not true with children that maintain a high level of attachment regardless.
• The study did not find any difference between male and female owners and their attachment to their dogs

Based of the study "Man's best friend: What does 'Fido's behavior say about the relationship between you and your dog?"  published June 6, 2014 in ScienceDaily.

FDA Issues Warning On Pet Tear Stain Products

Many dogs suffer from tear-staining, which is a condition most often caused by excessive tear production. Certain breeds are more prone to tear-staining, and the tell-tale sign is the reddish-brown streak under their eyes. It is important to know that tear staining is usually a symptom of a problem and should not be overlooked. The issue causing the staining may be an eye problem (structural, inflammation, or infection), but it could also be a symptom of allergies (both food and environmental). If your pet also has bad breath, gas, tummy gurgling, loose stools or vomiting, it most likely is food related. Many people seek over the counter products to help with the tear staining without realizing they are giving their pets a daily dose of antibiotics.  Over time, the excessive use of antibiotics can have serious consequences.  

These concerns led the  U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a warning on August 29, 2014 to the makers of Angels' Eyes, Angels' Glow, Pets'Spark, Glow Groom and Health Glow because they are misusing an antibiotic. The products contain the antibiotic tylosin tartrate, which has not been approved for use in cats and dogs and has not been reviewed for their safety and effectiveness in treating the conditions associated with tear stains. Here is  a link to the FDA warning. 

A diet change and holistic products that support the pet's immune system (Argentyn and Power Probiotics) and products to help with allergies (AllerEaze) can offer your pet great relief from their symptoms.  A good starting point is to use the  K9 Yeast Defense calong with the Power Probiotic and Quentans as tear stains are often due to yeast that form from the moisture.

New California Law Lets You Take Your Dog To Dinner

California Gov. Jerry Brown announced this month that beginning in 2015, your dog may be permitted to eat at restaurants with you on outdoor patios.  This is a great victory for dog lovers!

The new California law states:

• There must be a separate entrance for the outdoor dining areas 
• Pets are not allowed on the the seats.
• They must also be on a leash or in a carrier and completely under the control of the owner 
• Owners are required to clean up after their pets.

The new California law does not force restaurants to allow dogs, but helps to provide guidelines. It also does not limit the local jurisdictions from implementing their own ban on dogs in restaurants.   For those of us who love to bring our best friend everywhere we go, this is a wonderful new California law!

Spaying and Neutering Cats Saves Lives

In a recent study published in the Veterinary Journal, Dr. Julie Levy, a professor of shelter medicine at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, gave results of her program to reduce the number of sheltered (and euthanized) feral cats in a given area.

The target area was in Alachua County, where 2300 feral cats (54% of the estimated population) were trapped, sterilized and replaced back into their area. The number of cats taken into the local shelter fell by 70 percent and cats euthanized decreased by 95 percent. In the rest of the county, the number of sheltered cats also fell by 13 percent, an euthanasia decreased by 30 percent.  As an unexpected bonus, adoptions increased of these friendlier kittens and cats too.

Dr. Levy is also the director of Maddie's Fund (Maddie's Shelter Medical Fund) at the University of Florida. It is dedicated to "helping shelters achieve their life savings goals, training the shelter medical professionals of today and tomorrow, and developing new knowledge to enhance the well-being of sheltered animals"   

Preventative Veterinary Care Can Save You Money and Your Pet's Life

We just heard an alarming statistic... over the past seven years, the percentage of pets that are overweight or obese has increased up to 52% of all dog and 58% for cats according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.  This obesity boom has added to the increase in serious medical conditions such as; diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, thyroid disease, kidney disease, and even dental disease.  How can are pets be getting more ill, or are they?  It is believed  a major factor of the increase in these health conditions could be pet owners putting off preventive or early intervention care. 

Since 2001 vet visits have dropped  (21% for dogs and 30% for cats) according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.  However, emergency visits have been on the rise, which leads you to believe that pet owners are waiting until their pets are really sick before going to the vet.  This especially true during the difficult economic times.   

Pet owners are some of the most caring people in the world, but many factors go into the level of care they are willing to give  their pets. Cost remains the number one factor and as result, many pet owners may wait until there is a crises before taking action.  This can result in a poor prognosis for your pet as early diagnoses often results in better treatment outcomes, as well as less costs overall.  It is important to realize that preventive care can actually save money and help your pet live a happier and healthier life. For example building  up your pet's immune system with supplements such as Amazing Omegas and Power Probiotics for Pets can help with infections, allergies/skin problems, and even kidney and heart disease.   Using Amazing Arthrosoothe for an active dog BEFORE arthritis sets in will save you thousands in XRAYS and further treatments, as well as help reduce your pet's discomfort.  Using gentle kidney support such as Renelix  for senior cats will help support their kidneys before a kitty goes into renal failure.  

Please see our testimonials to see how holistic support can make a difference in preventing health problems in dogs and cats.
 
Getting regular veterinary laboratory testing is also key.  While blood and urine testing can expensive, it is well worth the upfront expense.  Catching a disease early means that you can treat it sooner. Sometimes, pet owners may delay taking their pet to the veterinarian and instead choose to look for information on forums on the internet.  There is just no substitute for scientific information, so if you notice that your pet is acting differently or suspect something may be wrong, don't delay.  Finding out early could save your pet's life and save you money in the long run. 

International Homeless Animals Day 2014 - How You Can Help Homeless Animals

Every year local pet shelters and animal rescue organization are overwhelmed by overpopulation. The consequence is many animal are euthanized when homes can't be found for them. Saturday, August 16th was designated for the purpose of bring attention to the problem of homelessness. 

International Homeless Animals’ Day 2014 may be limited to one weekend, but it could be a starting point for you. Here are things you can do?

• A Forever Home-of course number one on the list is to adopt a homeless pet.
• Foster-for those of you cannot give a forever home, but have a little extra love, space and time consider fostering. 
• Just a Little of Your Time- volunteering doesn't cost anything, but your time and can make a world of difference to shelters and rescues.  Check out www.petfinder.com to find a rescue or shelter near you that needs help
• Donations- Cash or much needed supplies. Most organizations run on a very tight budget and every little bit helps.
• Be the Voice- in person or via social media. Let your world know about the needs of our homeless pet population.
• Let Your Wallet Do the Talking-consider doing  businesses with those organizations that support animal causes
• Walk the Talk-participate in events that help shelters and rescues
• Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve-wear a t-shirt with the message, put on a bumper stickers, key chains, etc. they can start a conversation.

Tips For Evaluating A Pet Boarding Facility

If you are wrapping up the summer with a last minute vacation, you may need to  find a suitable accommodation for your beloved family dog or cat.  If your choice is boarding, here are a few tips to make it a safe and happy time for both you and your pet. Remember: it’s important that when boarding your pet to let the facility personnel know what your pet’s needs and habits are; as pets can become stressed. Different pets have different needs, so make sure to ask plenty of questions about how different issues will be handled.  For example, some dogs won't defecate in a dog run setting so ask if your dog can be walked or brought into an open yard after eating.  This may seem like an obvious request but many facilities walk the dogs and then feed them in their cages afterwards.

Check out the facility first- this goes without saying, but it is important to investigate the facility. Your pet is unique and not all facilities are right for every pet.  Check for cleanliness, safety, activities, and level of care provided. All are considerations for a happy stay for your pet. Remember, you know your pet the best, ask lots of questions. 

Doggie Playtime--Many facilities now offer doggie playtime.  It is very stressful for dogs to be locked in a cage all day long.  Try to find a facility that will give your dog some social time. 
 
Veterinary Services- Ask what their veterinarian services policies are while your pet is boarding. Do they have a vet of staff?  Will they take the pet to your own vet?  Your pet's safety is of the upmost concern and wanting them to have access to good veterinary care is crucial. Also discuss your financial responsibility for these services. 

Food-Many pets have food allergies or sensitivities and it is important that your pet's diet is kept constant during your absence. Clarify with the facility the diet restrictions including; brand,type/flavor and amount. Providing your own food is a great way to ensure the diet is followed. The last thing you would want to deal with upon your return is an allergy flare-up.

Pet Vaccinations-  Most kennels require your pet to be current on his vaccinations. Plan ahead and make a veterinarian appointment in advance, so that you can provide the boarding facility with up to date records.

Medications or Supplements- If your pet takes medications or supplements, ask the boarding facility if they can accommodate your pet's medication/supplement schedule.  Also, check to see if there is an extra charge to give the medications to your pet. Be sure to reorder all medications/supplements in advance to ensure your pet has an adequate supply while you are gone.

Anxiety- Your pet may suffer from separation anxiety, bringing a beloved toy or blanket from home may help them feel more comfortable. You may also want to consider leaving your pet for a day/few hours, so they become familiar with the situation before you leave on your trip.

Dogs Detect Prostrate Cancer With 98% Accuracy

This year an estimated 233,000 men in the US will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year alone. Unfortunately, the current testing is not always accurate.  However, there may be help from "mans best friend" .  Italian researchers have found that specially trained dogs were able to detect prostate cancer from urine samples with 98% accuracy. 

It is well known that dogs have a great sense of smell.  Dogs actually have over 200 million olfactory cells compared to humans 5 million. It is this keen sense of smell that is already being used to help alert diabetics to high or low blood sugars.  There has also been studies that are showing great promise in detecting ovarian cancer and bladder cancer.  

The Italian researchers took a large sample of 677 participants, 320 of which had prostrate cancer at different stages. The trained dogs were able to detect the cancer 99% of the time, while specificity was 97% accurate for a total of 98% accuracy in detection.

This has a great deal of implications for pet owners.  Can our own pets detect when we have cancer?

Kitty Ginger Recovers From Acute Kidney Failure With Kidney Supplement

Ginger

Wanted to share this wonderful email we received from the Reilly family. We are so glad that Ginger is feeling better!

"Last year our Ginger escaped &  spent the night outside. We have no idea what she got into, but she became very sick. That Saturday, at the veterinary clinic, the doctor believed there was something wrong with his laboratory equipment. I even heard him in the back room calling the company that had recently calibrated the machine to complain. He sent her blood to outside lab.   I had Renelix on hand for my other kitty and started Ginger on it immediately.

The following Monday our veterinarian phoned and stated that the outside lab had confirmed Ginger's severe acute renal failure. He stated "Normally when I notify somebody of results this poor, they no longer have a pet that is living".  I explained that we had been through this before, and I attributed Ginger's survival to the products and advice I had received in the past from Susan Davis of Ask Ariel. Ginger was receiving IV hydration at home, as well as RENELIX and the diet as advised by Susan.

Ginger returned to her normal, healthy & ; spoiled self! Fortunately, she also slimmed down from her previous tubbiness! I can't thank Susan Davis enough!!!! "
           Suzanne -Florida 2014

Momma Cat and Kittens Survive After Being Abandoned In A Taped Box In The Hot Sun.

Momma cat and her four kittens that were dumped in a sealed cardboard box in the blazing sunshine outside Willow Veterinary Clinic.  Picture by Simon Finlay

Amazing survival story of a Momma cat and her kittens rescued in the nick of time.   Many people face the difficult decision to surrender their pets, but there are right ways and wrong.  Here is a story of animal cruelty that is definitely wrong!

"Tim Roe, principal vet at Willow Vets in Drayton High Road, Hellesdon, said the cardboard box left outside their business yesterday was sealed with tape so the cats could not get out, and had no air holes in it.

The cats have since been cared for by the vets and nurses and are now well but Mr Roe said they could have died in the hot sun.

He said: “In 30 years I have never seen cats sweating so much. In another 20 minutes they would have been dead.

“It was only luck that we discovered them, when I went out through the fire escape. They were left outside the door and might not have been spotted. Why would anyone dump cats like that?

“I would have rather had a phone call saying that a box had been left outside, than for it just to be dumped there without them telling us.”

He said the mother was about two-years-old and the kittens about 12-weeks-old.

He added: “They were dehydrated. We have been syringing water into them and they have been soaked in ice cold water to get their core temperatures down. They are luckily in pretty good shape. Prior to being left in the box they had obviously been looked after for some time.”

The cardboard box had a Tesco label on it and previously contained a hand blender set.

Mr Roe said the cats would be kept at the practice until they could find a home for them, or a charity to take them on."

LA Dogs Find Forever Homes in the Northwest

Yesterday, 150 homeless dogs from the Los Angeles area shelters got a ride of their life.  They flew from Long Beach airport to the Northwest where forever homes awaited them.

Here is the article from July 30th in the Long Beach Post:

This morning at 9:00AM, nearly 150 dogs from Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) and other displaced pets from Los Angeles County Shelters were loaded gingerly into their crates and lifted via an assembly line of hard working volunteers into a small airplane. This life-saving air transport will relocate the sheltered animals to the Pacific Northwest where more kennel space is available and adopters are waiting eagerly to give them forever homes.

Funded through the generous donations of the Bark Avenue Foundation, Wings of Rescue, Shelter Me and the pilot’s volunteered time, this flight was one of several this July that gave hundreds of unwanted shelter pets a chance to keep living.

Ted Stevens, Long Beach Animal Care Services Shelter Manager, spoke about how these rescue flights are just one of the solutions for reducing pet overpopulation in Long Beach. “We get to find homes for these animals, it opens up space in our shelter. This time of year, summertime, we’re overcrowded and we run out of kennel space, so this helps us free up some of those spaces,” Stevens said.

The rescue flight, departing from FliteServ’s Terminal at the Long Beach Airport, will land in Washington today, where the dogs will then be transported to four different shelters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Stevens said that farther North, “there’s an actual demand and shortage of supply for smaller dogs under 25 lbs,” unlike Southern California, which has an overabundance of these pint-sized pets.

Not only did the LBACS and Los Angeles County Shelters deliver animals to be transported, but several private animal fosterers came to FliteServ’s terminal to make sure the pets they had found and nursed back to health were loaded safely on board.

Susan Olsen’s eyes watered on the tarmac as she said her last goodbyes to Lila and Kilani, two dogs she fostered after they had been abandoned. “Someone brought [Lila] to me from San Bernardino city, she was ‘pulled’ from there, is the term, and this boy I went and picked out at Carson,” Olsen said. Olsen said she was going to wait until the very last minute to put Lila, a chihuahua terrier mix and Kilani, a Pomeranian spaniel mix, into their crates.

Carol Ferrell found Zeke and his sister, both Chihuahua mixes, running down a four lane road in Fontana at seven in the morning. Ferrell said, “I sat down in the grass in my work clothes, I made chirping noises and he came right to me. His sister was harder to catch. She squiggled out of my arms and I had to keep driving down the street until I could get her.”

Stevens explained that although these rescue flights are heart-warming attempts to save these animals, “It’s not the solution[...] the solution is to spay and neuter to reduce overpopulation and, you know, there’s a lot of animals that didn’t make it on this flight that are still waiting at the shelter for homes. We still want to encourage people to come to the shelter and adopt, rather than shopping someplace else.”

Dogs and Cats Can Get Sunburned

Who is at risk?
Special care needs to be given to hairless pets or those pets with very short or thin fur, with regards to sun exposure. With added attention bad to the parts of the skin that are regularly exposed to the sun. These include the ears, the bridge of the nose, the skin around the eyes, and the back. 

White pets and  certain breeds are more at risk for sunburn they include:  white Bulldogs, Dalmatians, Boxers, Whippets, Beagles and white or multi-coloured cats with white patches have skin that is very sensitive to light, especially on their heads. Also there are pre-existing conditions and medications that make the skin more sensitive.

What to do to avoid your pet getting sunburned

• Avoid sun- make sure your pet has a shady spot to rest, especially during peak sun periods
• Dress your pet- put a shirt, hat and socks/booties(to protect their feet) during out door activities
• Use Sun Protections of at least SPF 30 for very sensitive animals.

If your pet gets sunburned
Cool compresses and ointments to soothe the skin can help relieve the initial symptoms. If the burn is severe, a veterinarian should be consulted as treatment with a cortisone product may be indicated to prevent inflammation

What can happen?
In animals, sunburn results in an acute inflammation of the skin that can cause itching or even pain, depending on the individual animal. Frequent sunburns can lead to pre-cancerous conditions or even actual skin tumors.

Cat with Renal Failure Recovers Using Supplements

Nutmeg

"I can't tell you how much I appreciate Ask Ariel products and Susan Davis. Nutmeg is the THIRD kitty we have had with acute renal failure. She, like the others, was given a grim prognosis. I immediately started the regimen of RENELIX, as well as dietary advice given to me by Susan Davis back in 2007. This was in addition to aggressive IV and then subcutaneous rehydration. Within 3 days, Nutmeg's labs went from over triple the normal range to just slightly elevated. 

The owner of the veterinary clinic told me "If anyone can get her through this, it is you." However, I am a firm believer that  RENELIX is the key factor in my "Nutty's surviving"!

Ask Ariel products have never done us wrong. Years ago, our Border Collie Reagan had allergies that caused him to have a large bald spot on his back. We had tried multiple products, including steroids, with no success. After one course of PROALLER, and dietary advice from Susan Davis, his reactions completely resolved! His fur grew back beautifully, and I must admit, he now even eats peanut butter with no more reactions! Others who I advised to try PROALLER say they have had the same amazing results!

Thank you, again, Susan! I will always consult you first with any pet issues we have!"

Suzanne Reilly

Palm City, FL 

Sophie The Labrador Makes People Smile with Her New Blog

We have great news to share... our very special friend Sophie the Labrador has her own blog on Smile TV. You have to check it out. SOPHIE’S SECRET DOG BLOG

Sophie (and Sandy) came to us after suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections.  After  making the recommended diet changes and adding Amazing Omegas, Allereaze, and K9 Yeast Defense, which was suggested by Susan Davis, Askariel.com nutritionist, Sophie is now "happier and healthier". Here is her testimonial

Sophie

“I am writing this testimonial so that others like me who are very hesitant to follow instructions from someone (I didn't even know) on the Internet can help their dog. Sophie had recurrent urinary tract infections that became resistant to antibiotics. As a result of the large amount of antibiotics, she started to have digestive and itching issues. After two different vets, with multiple visits, costing lots of money and no improvement, I was extremely frustrated.

After much Internet research, I came upon Susan Davis, the nutritionist at Ask Ariel, someone who took the time to explain the importance of proper nutrition for dogs and the extreme role that it plays in their health. I must admit that I was hesitant as first as I looked at the cost of some of the natural supplements and food changes. However, when comparing it to the continuing veterinary bills and medication, it ends up to be less expensive. But more importantly, I was able to stop the cycle of ill health (UTI'S, digestive etc) and Sophie was so much happier and healthier! Susan not only gives you solid advice on how to help your pet feel better but truly cares about you (the owner) and the dog as you can feel it in her compassionate way of discussing the nutritional plan that she sees fit for your particular situation. I could go on and on but suffice it to say that I would highly recommend her and the Ask Ariel supplements.”

Sandy & Sophie
Los Angeles, CA

"National Pet Fire Safety Day" July 15, 2014

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that each year over 500,000 pets are impacted by house fires.  In the effort to increase awareness,  July 15th has been designated National Pet Fire Safety Day. The goal is to educate pet owners to the dangers of an unexpected emergencies, such as a fire,  and to help plan for the safety of their pets.  

Here are tips from the American Kennel Club to keep your pet safe from house fires:

• Extinguish Open Flames - Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
• Pet Proof the Home - Take a walk around your home and look for areas where pets might start fires inadvertently, such as the stove knobs, loose wires and other potential hazards. 
• Secure Young Pets - Especially with young puppies, keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home.
• Keep Pets Near Entrances - When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them. 
• Practicing Escape Routes with Pets - Keep collars and leashes at the ready in case you have to evacuate quickly with your pet or firefighters need to rescue your pet.
• Affix a Pet Alert Window Cling - Write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. 
• Keep Your Information Updated - Firefighters are familiar with pet alert window clings so keep the number of pets listed on them updated. Knowing the accurate number of pets in the house aids rescuers in finding all of your pets.
• Use Monitored Smoke Detection Services - As an added layer of protection beyond battery-operated smoke alarms, smoke detectors connected to a monitoring center help save pets who can't escape when left home alone.

Motion Sickness in Pets

The official travel season has begun and with it comes road trips. Many pet owners will want to include their pets, but for a great deal of pets, even the shortest trips can be stressful and cause motion sickness. Dog motion sickness is real and is more common in puppies, but not all dogs outgrow travel sickness. The symptoms are similar to those found in people and you may need to plan ahead to make it a fun trip for all. 

Signs that your Dog is suffering from motion sickness:

• Inactivity
• Listlessness
• Uneasiness
• Yawning
• Whining
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting

Things that might help Motion Sickness:

• Have your pet face forward while you’re traveling, rather than looking out the side windows.
• Lower your car windows a couple of inches  will help balance the air pressure inside the car and relieve ear pressure.  
• Limit your dog’s food consumption prior to travel. Using holistic supplements like Soothing Digestive Relief and Power Probiotic can also help calm down an upset stomach.
• Taking short car trips initially to places your dog enjoys to acclimate them, such as the park.
• Gradually build your dog’s tolerance to car trips.
• Use Psystabil for anxiety to help your relax about getting in the car
• Pets with severe motion sickness  may benefit from the use of medication prescribed by your vet.

If stress is a contributing factor to your pet's travel issues, other pet owners have found that using a product called Psystabil (which is a gentle remedy for anxiety) has helped calm their pet while traveling.

Feeding Tips For Your Finicky Kitty

Rocky (17+); Fred (14) and Smokey (10 )

Deborah Albritton

Meet Deborah Albritton, M.P.A.
Ask Ariel friend and client

Ask Ariel friend and client, Deborah Albritton is an experienced cat owner with three senior kitties.  Rocky, Fred and Smokey are pampered to the fullest!   Over the years, Deborah has educated herself and learned from experience about all different ways to transition her finicky kitties to healthier food.  Since she has had so much success, we would love to share her tips with you!

First and foremost choose a high quality food.  I have seen first-hand the difference that a true quality diet can make.  Choose brands that do not contain grains or chemicals and limit poultry and seafood since these foods can be inflammatory for a lot of cats with health conditions such as feline herpes and stomatitis.  Some of my kitties' favorites are Addiction, Instinct and Ziwi Peak.  I only use canned food or freeze dried raw as toppers.  I don't use dry kibble due to the added carbohydrates,  poor digestibility and overprocessing of the food.

Toppers
I have used toppings probably as the best way to “bribe” my kitties to eat new foods!   I have 2 cats that do really well and I still have one (10 year  old) that will not eat rabbit or venison.  So, it can be very difficult.  I think the key is to use the healthy toppings—in moderation. Some favorites are freeze dried foods such as : Natures Variety Instinct Raw Daily Boost (fine powder), Dr. Harvey's tripe, Feline Instincts beef or Stella and Chewy's.

I grind up the topper in a blender and have little containers labeled with their favorite toppings in a little basket. (Word of warning…too much topping can be constipating—so, be careful – to go gingerly with these as toppers!)  Many can be mixed with warm water as a little treat for topping.. which may work like a  “gravy topping”.

Hide the Supplements in Something Yummy!
I hide their  supplements in all meat baby food (e.g. ham or beef) with no issue. ( just make sure no onions—which is often in veggie broth or chicken broth in commercial products) I also use different textures of food.  For example, Pride By Instinct offers rabbit flavors in different textures so you can see if your kitty prefers minced vs pate, for example.  Rocky, Smokey and Fred at different times, have benefited from these Ask Ariel supplements:   Colostrum for Pets, Power Probiotic, Notatum, Quentans, Roqueforti, Kidney Health, Renelix, Lypozyme and more.

Transition Your Pet's Diet Changes Slowly  

Here is a suggested transition schedule:  

•  First 4 days   ¼ new  ¾ old
•  Next three days  ½ new  ½ old
•  Final three days  ¾ new food and ¼ old   

If your cat is “super fussy”,  go even slower.   Sometimes just a 1/4 teaspoon a day of the new food until eventually they get used to the new smell and texture.

Fiber
We do add a little pumpkin—for our elderly cats--- helps since their mobility and motility slows with age. Also, 1/8 teaspoon ground flaxseed 2x a day mixed in food.

July 4th Pet Safety Precautions

The Fourth of July is a time of celebrations with family and friends, often ending with a beautiful and thrilling extravaganza of fireworks. However, for many pets it is a nightmare.  Pets' senses are different from people and the loud and unpredictable sounds and lights can cause your pet great anxiety. 

To keep your pet calm during the July 4th celebration consider the following tips:

• Keep your pet inside the house as far away from the source as possible
• Background sounds can help sooth the animal...play tv, music etc.
• If you know your pet is sensitive, prescription medications or holistic supplements such as Psystabil, which is a gentle calming formula, helps dogs and cats reduce anxiety.
• Make sure your pet has identification; including an ID tag and microchip (with up to date information).  American Humane Association reports that July 5 is one of the busiest day of the year for animal shelters due to animals panicking and getting lost. 

Fireworks are not the only danger for your pets during  Independence day. Here are a few other pet safety precautions: 

• Make sure your pet is in a cool place with plenty of water. In many places the 4th of July can be an extremely hot time of year.
• If you are planning a large celebration, consider keeping your pet in another location within your home.  Strangers and crowds can be stressful to your dog or cat, which can lead to aggressive behavior.
• Keep your pet from consuming people food and drinks.  They can cause gastrointestinal problems for your pet.

A Family Never Gives Up Searching For Their Lost Golden Retriever

Murphy reunited with her family

Love this story reported by Reuters this week.

Reuters June 24, 2014 at 10:47 AM ET
A golden retriever that got separated from her owners during a camping trip in California's Tahoe National Forest was reunited with her family and doing well after apparently surviving on her own for nearly two years in the wilderness, the family said.

Erin and Nathan Braun were on a camping trip in October 2012 when the dog, named Murphy, went missing, according to the Los Angeles Times. The couple posted fliers and created a Facebook page about the disappearance to no avail.

Twenty months later, a camper at the French Meadows Reservoir, not more than five miles (eight km) from where the Brauns lost Murphy, spotted the pet and alerted the family, according to a Facebook post written by the couple earlier this month.

After several unsuccessful days of trying to track the dog down, the Brauns decided to leave her bed and several items of their own clothing with the camper, hoping Murphy would pick up their scent and return to the area.

It worked, and a week later the Brauns were notified that the camper had coaxed Murphy onto a leash after finding her sleeping on the clothing left for her. Murphy was reunited with her family in mid-June.

“As you can imagine, we are completely shocked and amazed with the miracle of her surviving this long,” the Brauns wrote in a June 16 Facebook post. “She is on the road to recovery, very thin and frail but happy to be home with her family. Words cannot describe how grateful we are.”

It appears Murphy could have spent nearly two years in the forest, though parts of the neighboring area are more developed than others, according to Tahoe National Forest spokesman Michael Woodbridge. “It can get pretty good snowfall, that’s for sure,” he said. “It’s not too far from wilderness. French Meadows Reservoir is a dammed-up river, so it’s developed around there. Depending on where you are on the reservoir, there are developed recreation sites and a road there.”

Tim McGagin, kennel manager for golden retriever rescue and sanctuary organization Homeward Bound, sent out volunteers to retrieve Murphy after she was first sighted.
“She was slightly emaciated, but she wasn’t dying,” he said. “Somebody probably left food out, or left their garage door open. Generally in that area, she wouldn’t have made it through the winter months.” 

Copyright 2014 Thomson Reuters.

June is Adopt- A-Shelter-Cat Month

The month of June has been selected as the national adopt-a-cat month. It has long been believed that spring is known for being "kitten" season and unfortunately many will find themselves joining their adult counterparts in over crowded animal shelters throughout the country. If you are considering adding a feline friend to your household, the American Humane Association has these 10 tips:

1. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Two cats can provide this for each other. Plus they’ll provide more benefits to you. Cats’ purring has been shown to soothe humans as well as themselves – and they have an uncanny ability to just make you smile. A great place to start your search is online. Sites such as petfinder.com   enable you to search numerous shelters in your area simultaneously to help narrow your search and more quickly find the match that’s right for you and your new feline friend.


2. Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. Just as we each have our own personality, so do cats. In general, cats with long hair and round heads and bodies are more easygoing than lean cats with narrow heads and short hair, who are typically more active. Adoption counselors can offer advice to help you match the cat’s personality with your own.


3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. You’ll want to take any medical records you received from the adoption center on your first visit. Kittens in particular should accompany you to make the appointment – even before the exam itself – so staff can pet the cat and tell you that you’ve chosen the most beautiful one ever.


4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.Visiting the shelter or animal control facility should be a family affair. When adopting a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the adoption facility how to make a proper introduction.


5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat. Understand any pet is a responsibility and there’s a cost associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided spaying or neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for permanent identification.


6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.


7. Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach you not to leave things lying out. Food left on the kitchen counter will serve to teach your new friend to jump on counters for a possible lunch. Get rid of loose items your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like paper clips (which kittens may swallow).


8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new addition secluded to a single room (with a litter box, food and water, toys, and the cat carrier left out and open with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new surroundings; this is particularly important if you have other pets. If you’ve adopted a kitten, socialization is very important. But remember – take it slow.


9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan. You probably have a plan in place for getting your family to safety in case of an emergency. Adjust this plan to include your pets. Add phone numbers for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital to your “in-case-of-emergency” call list.


10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period. Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a household appliance or a piece of jewelry – this is a real living, breathing, and emotional being.

It is also important to start out on the right foot, with a good diet.  The best diet for cats is a raw frozen diet if your kitty will eat it.  Otherwise, use high quality grain-free canned food and try not to rely too much on poultry which can be a big allergen.  Giving newly adopted cats  Power Probiotic , is especially helpful as it will help to prevent worms and parasites, as well as strengthening their immune system.