Natural Supplements and Diet Change Helps Stomatitis

Max and Sasha

Here is a wonderful success story from our client Angie. The products she uses to help her kitties, Max and Sasha,  with stomatitis are Power Probiotic for Pets, Colostrom for Pets, Immune Harmony, and Quentans.

"Back in 2010, I adopted 2 kitties from an elderly gentleman who had been on the news. The news story said that Animal Control was going to come in and take all the old man's kitties and euthanize them if no one stepped forth to adopt them (supposedly because he had too many living in the city limits - a neighbor who didn't like him or the cats had complained and turned him in).

They were all so friendly! They acted like I visited the house all the time! So it was quite difficult for me to make my selections. I finally settled on this huge one - a domestic shorthair - that looked like a miniature black panther. I named him Max. He was lean and silky, so regal, and looked like he could be a formidable foe to anything threatening him. Next I selected his sister, a shy dainty puff ball of black fur... pure princess to every degree. So she became known as Sasha.

We all lived in bliss until I had to take a work detail overseas for a month. I was forced to leave my babies behind in the care of a veterinary hospital for boarding until I returned. The cats were "different" it seemed when we returned home. Max wasn't as zealous and playful and Sasha was just totally terrified of everything! I took them to their regular vet and that's when I found out that Max was suffering from a severe case of stomatitis and Sasha's case was mild. For almost a year, Max suffered through rounds of antibiotic and steroid shots trying to calm his symptoms just so he'd be able to eat. He got so skinny and was so miserable, I didn't know what else to do.

I began to scour the internet on alternative therapies and tried everything from switching food to switching litter. Finally a couple of years ago, I ran across the AskAriel site. And amazingly, there was a section all about stomatitis. I read everything I could find about it and even read about the other different conditions house pets can contract. The answers were reasonable so I placed my first order for some of the Power Probiotic. I also received a food recommendation from Ask Ariel that I was able to find in my local pet store. Over the next few months I continued to "fine-tune" Max's specific needs. Ask Ariel gave me recommendations about foods to avoid that would make the stomatitis worse.  In June of 2014, I took Max and Sasha to the vet one last time to have their teeth thoroughly cleaned, and Max received his steroid and antibiotic shots. After that, we started daily treatments with the supplements and recommended diet.  In June 2015, we visited the vet for the first time since the cleaning (for a different condition) and  she was thoroughly impressed and said she didn't see anything unusual... no redness, no sores, no buildup on the teeth or anything! She couldn't believe I was only feeding them wet food (not the dry her office had originally recommended) and nothing else.  

Anyway, I now have two of the happiest kitties on the planet! They are both in the elderly stage now with a few grey whiskers and a few strands of grey hair here and there coming out of their beautiful black coats, but Max loves playing the "baby" (even though he's the eldest)...Sasha has finally gotten over her fears as well. She loves to be picked up, but differently than Max. When she approaches you, she'll just sit there and wait, looking at you. When you reach down to pick her up she'll throw her little arms up in the air like a toddler begging. Then you'll have to pick her up and put her on your hip where she then likes to ride with her arms around your neck as she nuzzles your face.

Yes, I know it's a long success story but *my* kitties are extraordinary.

Thanks for coming up with such amazing products!"

-Angie (with Max & Sasha)

Zachary, LA

Stella & Chewy's Recall of Poultry Freeze-Dried Patties

This week, it was reported  that a great pet food company Stella & Chewys has issued a voluntary recall of some of their foods as a safety precaution.  Unfortunately, these things can happen to even the best companies. The list contains mostly poultry versions, which due to the high occurrence of allergies in dogs, we do not generally recommend. We still think using Stella and Chewy’s rabbit and/or venison verisons are a great healthy option for pets. For the safety of you and your pet, always use safe handling procedures. Wash your hands well before and after handling the food, and disinfect the preparation area and dishes/ utensils. 

Here is their press release with the lots being recalled:

Stella & Chewy’s is voluntarily recalling some of its products due to concerns of a possible presence of Listeria Monocytogenes. The recall was prompted by a positive test confirming Listeria monocytogenes in Chewy’s Chicken Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties for Dogs, 15 ounce, Lot #111–15, during routine surveillance testing by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. There have been no reported pet or human illnesses associated with this recall.

Listeria is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Retailers and consumers can find the full product recall list at http://www.stellaandchewys.com/stella-chewys-recall-notice/. Consumers should look at the lot numbers and UPC codes printed on the bag to determine if it’s subject to the recall. People who have purchased these products are instructed to dispose of the food or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

What To Do If You See a Pet Locked in a Car

Summer is in full swing, and with it comes certain dangers for your pets. We recently came across this article titled “Here’s What To Do When You See an Animal Trapped in a Hot Car" on One Green Plant website.  Leaving a pet in a locked car can have potentially deadly consequences.  As the article states, the temperature can reach 160 degrees (inside a locked car) on a hot day and a pet can suffer from heatstroke in a matter of minutes. Symptoms of heatstroke includes; restlessness, excessive thirst, thick saliva, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, rapid heartbeat, fever, and vomiting.  If the dog shows any of these signs it is important to get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. The article lists the steps that can be taken, if you come upon a pet locked in car.

1. Write down the car’s make, model, and license plate number

2. Find an authority figure nearby

3. If no officer is nearby, call the police

4. If the police are slow to respond, contact animal control

5. Watch for signs of distress in the animal

     6. If Authorities still haven’t responded, try opening the door*
        *know the laws in your community, pertaining to pets being left in cars.

The entire article can be found here

Dogs Run For Their Lives on July 4th

July 4th aftermath. Pictured is a neighbor's deaf white husky playing with our dog Legend. The dog is neglected and stays at our home for extra TLC whenever we are given permission by the owner. He looks so happy here but not on July 4th. There were 2 beautiful July 4th shows near our home and he was inconsolable, panting, pacing and terrified. As soon as the fireworks started, even though he was inside the house, he ran to the front door and tore the screen, frantically trying to run. The dogs don't know where to run, they are just afraid they "run for their lives". What is amazing is that he is deaf but the vibrations of the booms must affect him. Legend did not have an issue at all. Some dogs are more afraid than others.  Many dogs will run and run not knowing where they are going just to try to escape the scary noise.  Many pets are now at the shelters awaiting pickup so please, if your animal is missing, head to the shelter right away.

Symptoms of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease and Holistic Treatments

One of the most common reasons people take their cats to the veterinarian is because of urinary tract problems. When the bladder is not able to empty correctly, due to infection, bladder stones, blockage of the urethra (urethral plug) or inflammation, your cat can exhibit some or all of these signs. 

Symptoms of FLUTD: 

 Urinating outside the box

  Frequent trips to the litter box

  Straining or vocalizing in the box because they have irritated or inflamed bladders

  Exhibiting symptoms of pain: hunched up, crying, drinking more water, inappropriate urination

  Visible blood in the litter box 

Some risk factors can include, diet (eating dry food),being overweight, stress, genetics, breed, sex (urethral plug can be deadly to male cats) and age. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) can develop at any age, but usually occurs at about four years of age. It is important to see your veterinarian if you suspect a problem, because there could be an underlining cause. Endocrine diseases, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes can all cause urinary problems. To determine a diagnosis your veterinarian will, usually, conduct a physical exam, a urinalysis, urine culture, blood work, and possibly x-rays and ultrasounds. Some risk factors include, eating dry food, stress, genetics and even the sex (urethral plug can be deadly to male cats).

After the tests are conducted and conditioned is diagnosed, a comprehensive plan can be made to improve your cat’s health.  

Holistic Treatments for Cats with FLUTD

1.)  Diet change- Avoid fish, dry food, and poultry.  Fish and poultry are big allergens for cats similar to gluten and dairy for people.  Dry food is hard to digest and cats thrive on a high moisture diet.  If you order supplements at www.AskAriel.com be sure to include what you are feeding your cat and a diet suggestion will be included on the packing slip with your order. 

2.)  Medication-per vet instructions

3.)  Holistic supplements:

NotaSAN and QuentaSAN- powerful immune support formulas, a must have for pets with chronic urinary infections
Akutur- helps reduce inflammation that occurs in the bladder walls after chronic infections, by reducing inflammation, the area is better able to heal once and for all
Pet UTI Prevention – esssential herbs proven to help reduce inflammation, promote healing, displace and kill pathogens from the urinary tact
Power Probiotic for Pets- essential for your pet’s good health because they support digestion, help fight infection and enhance overall immunity

4.)  Lifestyle changes -reduction of stress

5.)  Surgery or Urinary Catheter-to remove the stones or blockage

Holistic Supplements helps Westie with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

                                                                 
Many thanks to Wendi Kushner for sending in Feebee's testimonial.  We are so happy Feebee is feeling better!

Feebee is an 11 year old Westie and had been having recurrent UTI's for about 6 months.  She would go off the antibiotics and within a few weeks would have symptoms again.  Our vet did an ultrasound which was normal and then suggested we switch her from a kibble diet to canned and raw food.  I discovered your website online and started her on Power Probiotic for Pets, Pet UTI Prevention, Quentans, Notatum, and Amazing Omegas for Pets.  I'm delighted to report that she hasn't had a UTI since starting this regimen, she loves her new food, and her skin is better than it's ever been (she has allergies too).  Feebee is one happy dog and I am a very happy owner!  Many thanks! 

Wendi Kushner -Texas, 2015

Holistic Treatments Help Senior Beagle Mix with Cancer

Michelle first reached out to us in March of 2012 when Tally (her beloved senior beagle mix) was diagnosed with Perianal gland carcinoma, IBD, bouts of pancreatitis and some seasonal allergies.

Tally went on a hypoallergenic raw frozen diet and over a period of time, used the following supplements – Power Probiotics for pets, K-9 Digestive Enzymes and Lypozyme to prevent pancreatitis and for the cancer:  Oncopet which is a comprehensive multi-vitamin for cancer

Here is Tally’s journey and how holistic treatments helped him:

Update 2/6/13

Prior to Susan designing this diet, Tally had frequent bouts of diarrhea, vomiting and pancreatitis.  He was on 5mg of Prednisone every 2-3 days.  After I began the diet, he NEVER had diarrhea, vomiting or pancreatitis again, and he was able to be taken off the Prednisone completely within 2-weeks of starting the diet.  WHAT A MIRACLE!! 

Update 3/4/14

Hi Susan,

Just to let you know my 13-1/2 year old dog, Tally was at the vet today and his ALT level is normal.  Thank you for recommending Lypozyme, and thank you for recommending the diet he has been on for over 2-years.  I tell everybody about you! 

Update 4/25/15

Susan Blake Davis and the Ask Ariel staff are just incredible.  I remember when I was so apprehensive of the diet and supplements  because I tried so many different things throughout my dog's life.  I was totally astonished when Tally came off prednisone in just a few weeks using her program, and my vet was even amazed.  I recommended Ask Ariel to a friend who had a dog with a huge liver tumor and was told by her vet that she would probably need to be put down within a few weeks.  With the help of Ask Ariel, that dog could go for walks again and had a good quality of life for an additional 1-1/2 years.  Tally is almost 15 years old and he would never have lived this long if it were not for Susan Blake and Ask Ariel products. 

Michelle and Tally 
Pennsylvania, 2015

Sugar in Pet Treats: Read the Label!

Surprise---just a reminder that a common ingredient in MANY pet treats is "cane juice" and just plain sugar. Even brands that are organic and seemingly healthy! Sugar is not good for your pets and can lead to diabetes, dental problems, UTIs, infections and more. Look on the labels for freeze-dried, quality protein sources such as venison and bison.

Here is just one example from a quality manufacturer:

Grandma Lucy's Blueberry Organic Oven Baked Dog Treats 
Organic Wheat Flour, Organic Dehydrated Cane Juice, Organic Soybean and/or Organic Sunflower and/or Organic Canola Oil, Organic Rice Starch, Organic Blueberry, Organic Vanilla Extract.

Why would you EVER want to give your pet sugar? Please watch labels as this is a good example of a pet treat that appears organic and healthy until you read the label......

Is A German Shepherd Right For You?

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

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

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

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

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability ***** 

Exercise*** 

Social Needs***

Apartment Friendly ***

Grooming***

Stranger Friendly *

Barking Tendencies **

Health Issues****

Intelligence*****

Trainability*****

Child Friendly*****

Maltese Mix Is Free of UTIs With Diet Changes and Supplements

Lilly

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

Renee Minnesota 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asian Canine Flu Hits the United States

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

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

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

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

Choosing a Feeding Bowl For Your Pet

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

For Your Dog

Breed (and size) of your dog.  

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

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

Material

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

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

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

For Your Cat

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

Why Does My Dog Vomit After Eating?

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

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

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

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

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

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

                                                            

  Kiko

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

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

How to Transtion Your Dog or Cat to a New Food

There may be a variety of reasons why it's important to change your pet’s food.  It could be a health condition, a healthier option or a change in the nutritional needs of your pet. However, your cat or dog’s digestive system is much more sensitive then ours and special consideration should be used when changing their food.  When feeding your pet a new food, introduce it very slowly over 7-10 day period. We recommended the schedule should be ¼ new food with ¾ old food for 3-4 days. If no issues arise,  then increase by ¼ every two days until fully switched to the new food.  Please, keep in mind that if you introduce the new food too quickly, your pet could suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, gas or diarrhea.  If any of these occur, slow down the process beyond the recommended (reduce the percentage of new food and/or increase days between changes) until the symptoms subside. If your pet's stool is soft, you can add a small amount of  pure canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)  to their food. The added fiber should help firm up their stools.  Also, Power Probiotic and a digestive enzyme such as K9 Digestive Enzymes  will make the transition easier.   

25% new for 3-4 days- 50 %  for 2 days- 75% for 2 days  until 100% new 

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

Ulysse

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

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

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

Ana, Michigan 2015

Which Harness is Best for Your Dog?

 

Back-Clip Harness

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

Back-Clip Harness

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

Pros:

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

·         Less tangling under the front legs.

·         They protect the fragile neck area.

Cons:

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

Front-Clip Harness

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

Pros:

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

·         Provides the ability to direct the dog

Cons:

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

Tightening Harness

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

Pros:

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

·         They are generally easy to put on a dog.

Cons:

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

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