2 A's For Your Dog's Health

Apple Cider Vinegar - Did you know that this old folklore remedy really works?  Many holistic minded individuals believe Apple Cider Vinegar is THE best tool in your remedy arsenal.  Not only can it enhance bowel function for your dog, it can also be used to treat those horrible chronic ear infections in your dog.  You can dilute one teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar in a half a cup of water and flush it into the ear.  This will create a mildly acidic environment which kills the yeast. 

Astragalus - This is one of the best herbals you can use for immune support.  There are a few studies out there that point to Astragalus being a great anticancer agent.  It is available fresh and dried, in tablets or liquids.  This herb can be used as a part of your dog's overall health regime.  See this article at http://www.dogcancerblog.com/astragalus-immune-booster-and-more/

Again, always consult your vet before trying any home remedies on your dog.  Every dog reacts differently.

Your Dog's Immune System

Your dog's immune system is a very complex mechanism that requires a variety of dietary nutrients to function properly.  This includes minerals, vitamins, fats, proteins, carbohydrates and water.  These components, when mixed together in the proper quality and quantity can positively influence your dogs health and performance.  Common sense shows that dogs that are well cared for and well nourished have fewer diseases, fewer trips to the vet and an overall happier state of mind.

When a dog's diet is deficient in any of the essential nutrients, their immune system more often than not, does not function properly.  Dogs are constantly exposed to bacteria, viruses and allergens in their everyday life.  To help neutralize these issues, their immune systems need to adapt very quickly.  Improper nutrition can cause your dogs immune system to become overactive, which in turn may result in devastating imbalances in their red blood cell.  Also, an under active immune system may reduce your dog's ability to fight infection.  This problem materializes as chronic ear infections, dry itchy skin, bladder infections and other generalized infections.

Although this information can vary dependent on the health and special needs of your dog, a general guideline is as follows:

Essential Nutrients:

• Approximately 40% of total kcal from a protein source
• Approximately 45% of total kcal from carbohydrates (35% cooked grains plus 10% veg or fruit)
• Approximately 15% of total kcal from a supplemental fat or oil source
• sodium chloride (again - to be monitored)
• bonemeal/eggshells and a multi-vitamin (note that I have many articles on the advantages of eggshells over bonemeal - please see http://dogzenden.blogspot.com/2010/09/benefits-of-nutritional-yeast.html

Again, please note that these are just general guidelines and are to be used as a reference only.  I strongly suggest you consult your vet as every dog is different in their needs and nutritional requirements. 

Know Your Dog as You Know Yourself

Your own powers of observation are among the most important tools you have to help keep your dog healthy and happy.  Since you alone know your dog better than anyone else, you are in the best position to notice any changes, however subtle, in their appetite, stools, behaviour, appearance and weight.  It is important to pay particular attention to behavioural changes as that can be a key sign of a medical problem, especially in an older dog.  Keep a watchful eye on your dog for any physical or emotional changes that may arise.  You are the most important person in your dog's life!

The Benefits of Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional Yeast is made from the same type of yeast as brewer's yeast, but the difference is that brewer's yeast holds some of the bitter beer flavour. Nutritional yeast is very popular with vegetarians. It's produced by culturing and fermenting the yeast grown on cane and beet molasses, it is fortified with vitamin B during the growing process, then it is harvested, washed, pasteurized, cooled and dried. It is available in the form of flakes, or powder and contains no active or live enzymes, so we don't have to worry about the intestinal problems related to yeast. Nutritional yeast and Candida go hand in hand, adequate consumption will prevent the occurrence of candidias. It is a rich source of amino acids and minerals. High levels of B-complex vitamins found in nutritional yeast.

Parmesan cheese or wheat germ can be used as a similar substitute but doesn't really match nutritional yeast.

Also, you should note that Brewers Yeast can be harmful to dogs in large doses. At least that's what I've been reading and may be a leading cause of chronic ear infections.

The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Dr. Pitcairn and Susan Hubble recommend you add this to each meal. Recommended dosage is 1 tsp to each meal.

Healthy Powder

2 cups nutritional yeast
1 cup lecithin granules
¼ cup kelp powder
¼ cup bonemeal
1,000 mg vitamin C (ground)
Mix together and keep refrigerated.

As there is a controversy about the uses of bonemeal and toxic lead amounts in this product, a good alternative and the alternative I use is ground egg shells.  Egg shells are approximately 95% calcium without the major effects of phosphorous as found in bonemeal.
 
As always, please seek professional guidance or do your homework before changing your pet's diet.  Their lives depend on you!

Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6 - Health Alert for you and your Pets!!!!

The Center for Science in the Public Interest has recently stated that many artificial food dyes should be banned due to their possible cancer risks.  They state that "these synthetic chemicals do absolutely nothing to improve the nutritional quality or safety of foods, but trigger behaviour problems...".  Not only does this effect you through the things you ingest on a daily basis like cereal, ice cream, cookies and candy but also the foods your dog eats.  Many of the average commercial dog foods contain the possible cancer causing dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6.  A number of the manufacturers worldwide use almost seven million kilograms of artificial colours in foods each year.

Please remember that your dog deserves the very best.  Please be conscious of what you AND your dog are ingesting.  Your health depends on it.

Passionflower as an Alternative for Medication in Dogs

The name passionflower was given to the flower by the Spanish explorers who thought the flower looked like a crown of thorns.

Passionflower is sometimes used as an herbal alternative to sedatives and analgesics in dogs.  It has also been used for dogs that have mild hyperactive tendencies such as mild anxiety and stress, epileptic seizures and mild pain and discomfort.  
 
Although there are not many known side effects, experts state that since it is used as a sedative, that it should not be used if other medications affecting the nervous system are being used.  Also, because passionflower may stimulate the uterus, it should not be used by pregnant animals.
 
Again, a warning, PLEASE do not dispense these remedies on your own without first consulting a holistic veterinarian or another qualified professional.  As always, safety first.

Fireworks and Dogs - 5 Ways to Ease Your Dog's Fears

Fireworks are a part of both the Canadian and American celebrations.  Many dogs are sensitive to fireworks and have negative reactions to the inconsistent noise.  They have no idea that it is a celebration, they just hear these strange noises which are unfamiliar to them and can become agitated and sometimes quite fearful.

Here are 5 ways to help your dog through the stress of the holiday firework season.

1. Desensitize your dog!  The number one way to avoid stress and anxiety in any situation is to desensitize them to the issue at hand.  f7 sound has created a CD which actually simulates the unpredictable sounds of fireworks  You can play this for your dog prior to the big event to get them used to the noises that will be occurring. The link to their website is http://www.f7sound.com/fireworks.htm  Cd's are only $12.00.
2. Another great way to ease their fears is to use the method of distraction.  Just like with children, if you want to get their mind off scary nightmare,you distract them with something like a song, a game or something else which will get their mind off what they are scared of. You can try playing with your dog while the \CD is playing .  They will eventually get so wrapped up in their enjoyment that the noise won't even effect them.
3. If the CD just isn't quite enough to help your dog cope, you can help them by creating a safe and comfortable haven for him to go during the loud noises.  If you have a functioning basement you can create an area of safety.  Set up a quiet, low light area with food, water and a bed.  You can also place in some of his favourite toys and even a bed.  Get him used to this room prior to fireworks time so that he is comfortable when the big day comes.  One important thing is to make sure that your dog can come and go freely through this area and never lock him in this room alone.  The trust will be lost and all your work will be for nothing.
   Sometimes your dog actually finds his hidey hole for you.  You just need to play along and go with it.  Even though you don't see the sense in some of their preferred spots, they do!  You're not a dog so just allow it to happen and let them have a say in where they will feel safe as long it is free from contaminants and will keep them safe from harm.
4. Try a DAP.  A dog appeasing pheromone releases calming pheromones into the air.  You can plug it into the room where the dog is staying and it is very similar to an air freshener.  Check out this website for more information  http://www.drugs.com/vet/d-a-p-dog-appeasing-pheromone-can.html . The DAP is also good for separation anxiety and other behavioral issues.
5. Bach Flower Rescue Remedy.  This works on a vibrational level and seeks to provide calm in your dog.  A few drops in your dogs water bowl can help to alleviate their stress.  Check out my blog post on Bach Flower at http://dogzenden.blogspot.com/2010/04/comprehensive-guide-to-bach-flower.html for more information on these amazing remedies. 

Finally, in all cases, please remember to do what you can to make your dog relaxed and less stressed during these times.  The fireworks may be festive for you but fearful for your dog.

My Dog Has Itchy Skin, What Can I Do for Him?

If your dog is suffering from itchy skin and you know it's not a flea issue, here are some great home remedies that are sure to help and save you some time, money and trips to the vet.

1.  Epsom salts: You can give your dog a cool bath to provide the most efficient and effective relief from itchy skin.  WARNING: Please be sure that your dog does not drink this water. 

2.  Oatmeal: Yep, believe it or not...it's oatmeal.  You can add this to your dog's bath to help with itchy skin.  It is good for dogs with allergies as it is very soothing to the skin.

3.  Baking soda: You can mix this up with a bit of cold water and just spot wash the area where the dog is itching.  It will help to relieve the severity and let them get through their day with some relief.

4  Fish oil: This can be added to your dog's diet to help beef up your dogs imunity to allergens. 

5.  Emu oil: Although sometimes hard to find, this can also be dribbled on your dog's food.  Keep in mind that this is for severe bouts of itching. 

6.  Apple cider vinegar: This remedy also works but be careful that the skin has not been broken.  Although a bit on the smelly side, it does work but not one of my favorite mixes.  This can be applied directly to the skin.

7.  Asprin: You can mix a couple of asprin tables in rubbing alcohol, then prepare some chamomile tea with spring water.  Combine the two mixes together and apply them directly on the infected area with a cotton ball.  This works quite well and is proven effective.

8.  Essential oils: There are a number of oils that you can use for your dog to ease the itch.  Some are lavender, tea tree oil (highly toxic to cats but not dogs), white thyme, and almond oil to name a few.

Finally, you may wish to consider removing the fur from the affected area.  In very hot weather conditions it's just a good idea.  It will keep them from developing any type of fungus or attracting parasites that can cause harm to your dog.

How much is too much? - Dogs and Chocolate

Chocolate contains the chemical Theobromine which is toxic to your dogs nervous and cardiovascular systems. Unfortunately it can’t be metabolized fast enough in a dog and can cause toxic levels to form. It’s important to note that senior dogs are much more susceptible to chocolate poisining.

If your dog accidentally eats your chocolate, here is a loose guideline you can follow to judge toxicity:

Milk chocolate - 1 -2 ounces per pound of dog body weight. Example: a 20 pound dog would have to ingest a little less than 1 pound of chocolate to show negative reactions to their nervous system.

Semi-sweet chocolate - 1/3 ounce to 1 full ounce per body weight. Example: a 20 pound dog would have to ingest about 6 ounces to show negative reactions to the nervous system.

Bakers chocolate – 0.1 ounce to 0.3 ounces per body weight. Example: a 20 pound dog would have to ingest about 2 ounces to show negative reactions to the nervous system.

Look at it this way, all it takes is just 1 ounce for a 10 pound dog!

It’s important to note that white chocolate can’t poison your dog. It would actually take about 12 ½ times your dog’s weight to have any negative effect.

Here are some signs of chocolate poisoning to watch out for:

Early symptoms:
Vomiting, diarrhea and hyperactivity, excessive panting, increased urination, increased thirst and high blood pressure.

If you know for certain that your dog has eaten a large amount of chocolate and hasn’t yet vomited you can try and give him a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water to induce vomiting. Once you’ve done this, take your dog into the vet immediately.

Later symptoms:

Heart arrhythmia are a sign of later symptoms. As the toxins are absorbed, the heart can begin to beat too fast and irregular, causing heart arrhythmia.

Other later symptoms can include seizures and even coma.

As you already know, it’s really important to keep chocolate away from your dog. Dog’s love sweets and don’t have any clue that chocolate isn’t good for them. Also, it's always good to keep 3% hydrogen peroxide on hand. The quicker you act the better the chances of keeping your dog safe, happy and healthy. My vet has told me that if your dog is treated within about 4-5 hours, they have the highest chances of survival if they ingested a toxic amount.

Non-Medical Pain Management Relief for Your Dog

Post surgical pain can be intense. This is magnified because a dog can't communicate their level of discomfort and therefore, pain levels can't be monitored as well as with humans.  If dogs don't get the necessary pain relief they need, they can lose their appetite and become stressed.  Both of these post surgical symptoms can  reduce the effectiveness of a surgery.

The most important thing to realize is that complete elimination of pain isn't always possible or even desirable.  The main goal is to keep your dog from intense pain which may lead to severe signs of stress and anxiety.  Pain management will allow your dog to at least continue on with some level of normalcy including eating, sleeping and simple interaction with people and other dogs.

Non-medical pain management goes beyond drugs.  Keeping your dog comfortable goes a long way towards recovery.  Here are 6 great ideas that will help speed your dog towards recovery:

1. Place their bed in a quiet area of the house to keep noise to a minimum.  Loud noises can cause discomfort which leads to stress.
2. Keep their bed in a well ventilated area away from strong smells such as purfume and cooking smells.
3. Monitor your dog's nutritional intake and general appetite.
4. Depending on the type of surgery, consider gentle post surgery massage.  Massage is a wonderful way to release toxins and can provide the personal touch they may need during this stressful time.
5. Gentle, spa type music can be very therapeutic.  Consider using music therapy before and after surgery to calm anxiousness and promote calm.
6. Bach Flower Rescue Remedy to treat the anxiety works wonders.  4-5 drops in their food will do the trick.

Surgery is painful enough, let's do our best to keep our dogs as comfortable as possible.

Alternative Remedies for Kennel Cough

Dogs with kennel cough may actually sound like a honking goose! The condition is very similar to that of the common cold in humans and unfortunately the best treatment for this condition is to just let it run its course.
The symptoms, however, can be extremely painful and can try the patience of many dog owners. The dry, honking cough can keep you and your dog awake through nights for more than 15 to 20 days at a time.

Many people suggest cough suppressants as a remedy.  Unfortunately cough suppressants can actually keep the phlegm from coming out and thus increasing the number of days of misery for your pet. The longer the kennel cough remains, the better the chances of your dog developing pneumonia.

A humid environment can help to provide some relief. A home humidifier or vaporizer placed close to where your dog sleeps is a great idea.  You can also reduce the level of exercise while your dog is suffering from the cough.  One of the staples in my dog first aid kit at home is Slippery Elm.  This is a great remedy that works to soothe the throat and provide some relief from that extreme cough.   Echinacea is also good to use.  Just place a few drops directly into your dogs mouth 2 to 3 times a day.  Finally, you can give your dog some honey to ease an irritating throat.  Also try to reduce exposure to smoke and keep him indoors.

Dealing with kennel cough is a long and trying process but even more so for your dog.  Only time can overcome a viral respiratory infection, but at least you are now informed of other ways to help your dog through the illness.

Please pay this advice forward.

Lameness - When to See Your Vet

There are varying degrees of lameness.  A tolerant dog may walk despite severe arthritis while a puppy may cry when his paw is lightly stepped on.  As I always say, it is very important to know what's normal for your dog.

If your dog is lame on one foot, you should carefully examine the leg from the toenails on up.  A cracked, split or broken toenail can be extremely painful.  You should carefully and gently feel between the toes for debris or cuts.  Carefully bend each joint as you move up their leg.  Remember that even if you have a very tolerant dog, the breathing pattern will change if it hurts.  Any type of swelling or redness should be looked at by a vet.  Your vet can then help you with the best treatment.

Remember if you have any doubts, see your vet immediately!

Can Dogs Suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

To answer this question simply, ABSOLUTELY YES!

According to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), "Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat."

I firmly believe that all shelter dogs, not just some, experience PTSD whether mild or severe in nature. Let's think about this for a minute. A shelter dog's story can vary greatly. We've all heard the stories and a lot of us have experienced the aftermath of the abuse first hand. Shelter dogs can be sent there from a puppy mill, from an elderly guardian who can no longer care for them, as a stray someone found on the street, from an abusive situation; the scenarios are endless. In any case, the dog has become a victim. Cast away on some level to be placed in a foreign location with other highly stressed dogs and put in a cage.

Most shelters do an amazing job of working with these dogs to promote socialization skills, correct unhealthy behaviours and work diligently to get these dogs adopted, however their funds, time and abilities are limited. The psychological stress for some dogs, can just be too much.

Often times the dog will be given a physical exam by a veterinarian. At some point someone will spend some time with the dog to assess the dog's ability to be adopted. If that dog doesn't pass the test, the dog could possibly be euthanized. All I can say, is Google the stats on that one!

The poor dogs that we give up on, abandon or otherwise fail by not meeting their needs are ripe for developing PTSD.

Many of my clients seek me out because they realize that the traditional therapies may not be working or they seek other non-invasive ways of treating stress. After a bit of probing about the dog’s history, if they know any of it at all, it most often reveals emotional issues which have caused the stress and anxiety and in most cases PTSD.

By understanding temperament, known history, behaviour problems and the dynamic in the home (all of which can only be seen IN THE HOME), we can prescribe an effective treatment plan to help with the problem.

Even the dogs that suffer from severe PTSD can be helped. With a combination of therapies that is specifically prescribed for the dog, you can alleviate and sometimes remove all signs of PTSD. Doing this requires patience, love, understanding and the realization that it’s most often 1 step forward and 2 steps back for a while until you connect with what works. Even dogs have those “Aha Moments” and when they have them then it’s full steam ahead.

If you think your dog is suffering from PTSD, here are some common symptoms to watch for:

* increased stress and anxiety which manifests itself by breaking the house training barrier
* whining
* barking
* howling
* hiding for no known reason.

These dogs may also show signs of unmerited aggression such as snapping for no reason or a low guttural growl when being approached.

I firmly believe that it most cases, anti-anxiety medications can be avoided if patience, persistence and the right therapies are used. Check out my blog for more holistic therapies which are a great fit for PTSD. These include massage, music therapy, Reiki, Bach Flower Remedies and Relaxation Therapy.

If you think your dog is suffering from PTSD symptoms, there are things you can do immediately until you can seek professional help, such as:

• Create a safe and quite place for your dog so he can just be alone.
• Place a favourite toy or a piece of your clothing in his safe place to soothe his anxiety
• Play gentle classical or harp music is best for a soothing environment

Then, get your dog the help he deserves!

A Comprehensive Guide to Bach Flower Essences for Stress and Anxiety Relief in Your Dog

Bach Flower Remedies are a flower essence remedy which works on an emotional and vibrational level to address emotional imbalances. Humans use Bach Flower to promote and maintain emotional well being. Bach Flower can also serve the same role for our furry companions.

It can be said that Bach Flower Remedies are to the emotional body what Homeopathics are to the physical body. The Bach Flowers resonate with the emotional body to re-establish balance and harmony in the physical body.

Bach Flower Remedies are gentle and non-toxic. They can be used alone or to supplement any form of medicine without negatively affecting their usefulness. They can work surprisingly quickly, sometimes only with a single use. The most common observation however, is a gradual change over 2 to 4 weeks. Bach Flower Remedies should not be used as a replacement for veterinary care, rather it should be used as an addition to the total approach to the health and well being of your pet.

ADMINISTERING THE REMEDIES

The remedy can be given by mouth, which is the most effective method. Only a few drops (4-8) are necessary, and need not be swallowed.

The most common forms of administering the Remedies are:

• Placing into their food or water
• Dropping directly into their mouth
• Applying the solution directly into their skin

There is no improper or wrong method of applying the Bach Flower Remedies.

DOSAGE AND TIMING

Just a few drops (4-6) at a time are sufficient. For serious or acute conditions, the remedy can be given as often as needed, even every hour. For most behaviour concerns, the standard is 3 to 4 times a day for 2 to 4 weeks. If the response is reached by that time, you may begin to decrease the dosage gradually.

You cannot overdose.

The beauty of Bach Flower Remedies is their simplicity. No matter where you are in your relationship with your pet, the essences will always help. It can be as simple as Rescue Remedy or a specialized tincture to fit their current needs.

Bach Flower Remedies are a safe, effective and non-toxic alternative to troubling behavioural issues. They are a healthy addition to the overall well being of your pet.

A GUIDE TO FLOWER ESSENCES FOR STRESS AND ANXIETY IN DOGS

Aspen - Used for fear of the unknown and for general nervousness and anxiety. Can bring about a sense of security and peace. Recommend for general anxiety, fear aggression, territorial barking, sudden and unexplained agitation. This remedy is often used together with Mimulus.

Gorse - Used for states of depression, despondency and discouragement. Often used for those dogs who have given up hope such as severe shelter cases. Recommended for extreme lethargy and rescue dogs who have been at the shelter for long periods. Also use for puppy mill dogs.

Hornbeam - Used for fatigue or wariness or for those having a hard time getting started. Used to bring about a sense of enthusiasm and spontaneity. Recommended for post surgery recovery, post competition and for general lethargy.

Impatiens - Used for dogs that are impatient, easily irritated, tense and intolerant of people, other dogs or even cats. They can be accident prone and don’t stay in one place very long. Recommended for hyperactivity and for dogs that are pushy for their food, attention or walks. These dogs may often have accidents in the house.

Mimulus - Used for fear of known things like pain, people, other dogs, objects, etc. Used along with Aspen since it is difficult to determine exactly what a dog fears. It helps them face their fears with confidence. Recommended for general anxiety, fear aggression, resource guarding, territorial barking and sometimes marking.

Mustard - Used for the onset of sudden depression, melancholy, gloom or despair for no known reason. This remedy can bring on a sense of joy. Recommended for sudden depression due to latent memories of past physical, mental or emotional traumas.

Olive - Used for dogs that are mentally and/or physically exhausted. This remedy can give them the needed strength and desire to carry on. Recommended for dogs recovering from a long illness, after a long competition or work, after giving birth or even dogs suffering from malnutrition.

Rescue Remedy - This is the most famous remedy of all the flower essences. This combines five remedies that are specially suited for trauma and stressful situations. Included in Rescue Remedy are: Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Star of Bethlehem. Recommended for emergencies and extremely demanding or stressful situations.

Rock Rose - Used for those dogs who experience true terror. It is for a fear that causes panic, frantic escape attempts and hysteria. These fears are usually brief and related to a specific crisis. It can help restore courage and presence of mind and may help to bring a sense of calm to certain stressful situations. Used mostly for acute signs of stress and anxiety. Recommended for hysterical behaviour, severe fear aggression and stress attacks.

Star of Bethlehem - Used for recent or past physical, mental or emotional trauma. Examples would be a serious injury, extreme fright or the loss of a loved one or other pet. This is often the first remedy recommended for shelter dogs. Recommended for abused or rescued dogs, post trauma or accident, after the loss of a companion dog or human or after any other long term trauma or illness.

Vervain - Used for extreme enthusiasm and those dogs that are constantly active. These dogs are often restless and unable to relax. They will often push themselves beyond their limits. It will bring about a sense of calm and an ability to relax. Recommended for hyperactivity, sudden hyperactivity or anger/aggression. Good for dogs that don’t get enough exercise. Commonly used with Chestnut Bud. Extremely good for herding breeds.

White Chestnut - Used for dogs that suffer from obsessive worrying and anxiety. Also used for lack of hope or a lingering illness. It can promote clear thought and bring about peace of mind. Recommended for obsessive/compulsive behaviours, excessive licking and chewing, indoor marking and restlessness during sleep.

Wild Rose - Used for a lingering illness or extreme apathy. It is for those dogs that have lost an interest in life such as shelter dogs or dogs from puppy mills or hoarders. Recommended for those dogs that are no longer interested in food, play or social contact.

Bach Flower Remedies are a safe, effective and non-toxic alternative to troubling behavioural issues. They are a healthy addition to the overall well being of your pet.

Please contact me for more information on Bach Flower Remedies or for a consultation at 416-452-1588 416-452-1588 or doggyzenden@gmail.com.

Is Pomegranate good for dogs?

I received an email from one of my readers asking if there were benefits to feeding her dog pomegrante juice.

Since then, I've been reading some interesting information about the positive effects of pomegranate juice for humans. Do a quick http://www.google.com/ search and you will see a great deal of information about the exciting benefits.  It really is wonderful.  However, after speaking with my holistic vet and a few other holistic minded professionals, we aren't convinced that pomegranate is good for your dog.

According to the Natural Standard, The Authority on Integrative Medicine at http://www.naturalstandard.com/ , pomegranate is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and "some early evidence suggests that it may have preventative effects" against certain cancers.  It is important to note that although the information is promising, the findings are preliminary.

The ASPCA's believes that pomegranate is not seriously harmful to dogs but may cause gastrointestinal issues.  see link http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/acai-berry-and-pomegranate.html

There are some antioxidant supplements for dogs out there such as NingXia Red Juice which contain pomegranate juice but it is mixed with other berries as well.

If you are considering adding pomegranate juice to your dogs diet, please do your research and ask your holistic veterinarian.

Please be a well informed dog guardian.  Your dog's health depends on it.

If you have any information or have had any experience with pomegranate juice for dogs, please let me know.  I'm always interested in your comments.

Is your dog stressed because of YOU?

Most of you, if not all of you who read this blog have an understanding that our dogs respond to the energy around them.  All of you are here because you love your dog and want what's best for him/her.  You know that your dog needs to be in a relaxed state in order to deal with the different degrees of energy surrounding them in a positive and healthy manner.   In a perfectly balanced dog, negative energy should be able to flow through your dog.  When it doesn't your dog has an imbalance.  These dogs will experience a build up of excess energy, which we call tension or stress.  This tension, just like with humans, needs to be released.  Since dogs can't verbally express their emotions and relieve stress by talking it out, they express it as part of their behaviour. 

In order to help your dog relieve that tension, we need to be able to sense what our dog is feeling and approach the situation in a calm, centered and relaxed manner.  This means in order to help our dog, we need to help ourselves too!

Be aware of your dog.  Not just of his physical presence but his emotional state of mind by watchnig his behaviour.  Do you see him whining for no reason, spinning around in circles, scratching constantly, panting heavily, muscles trembling and constant wiggling?  These are all signs of tension or stress and can vary in degrees.  These symptoms can escalate quickly so watch for them and observe the subtle ques so you can stop them before they intensify.  Catching those symptoms early are tantamount to helping your dog.  Your ultimate goal is to spot these warning signs early and fix them before they escalate.  Once the tension increases to a fever pitch, your dog just won't listen.  It is up to you to get advice on how to bring your dog "down" by using calming and relaxation techniques.  My blog lists a number of relaxation techniques such as Reiki, Bach Flower Remedies, Relaxation Therapy, Massage and Music Therapy.  However, you can begin the process yourself by working on you!

Most of you know a relaxed dog when you see one.  He will be attentive to you in a calm way, hsi muscles will be supple, not stiff, his breathing will be regular and his movements will be more fluid rather than jerky.

Getting your dog to relax begins with you!

Since you already know that your dog senses your energy, you're halfway there!  YOU are the major source of energy for your dog.  Yep, I said it...YOU!  Before you start putting the blame on your dog, you need to understand your own energy.  Are you tense?  Are you holding the collar just a little too tightly?  Are your shoulders shrugged?  Is your voice elevated?  Are you BREATHING?????

How can you expect your dog to respond to you correctly when they are tense?  They just can't do it.  Well, you can't expect to be capable of asking for them to do something for you if you're not in the right state of mind.

It is important to focus on your breathing. 

So, right now...take a deep breath.  Really! Do it now.  Breathe in.  As you breathe in, you should feel your diaphragm expand.  Take notice of your body as you feel your stomach expand as you breathe in, then exhale through your mouth, releasing the air slowly.  Do this for at least 10 full breaths, not rushing it, just taking your time.  Shake it out and feel the difference.

Now, the next time you're in a stressful situation with your dog or if you "know" you are walking into a stressful situation with your dog, take a moment and breathe BEFORE you approach your dog.  Once you are in a more relaxed state, you are better able to handle potentially stressful situations.

To find out more information about destressing YOUR life and about the Breath, please check out my dear friend's blog: Core Connection Healing for more information.

http://coreconnectionhealing.blogspot.com/2010/04/meditation-made-easy-3-tips-to-start.html

Alfalfa: The helpful Little Rascal!

Alfalfa when it's literally translated means "the father of all foods".  To be quite honest, when I was a kid I really thought it was just the name of a Little Rascal.  Truth be told, I wasn't all that "holistic" growing up so Alfalfa remained a mystery to me until my 20 somethings, well ok...30 somethings...

This green food is reported to contain all of the vitamins, minerals and trace elements known to be needed for humans and animals.

Chinese herbalists use Alfalfa to treat fluid retention, swelling and kidney stones.  It's great for urinary tract infections and has great detoxyifying properties. 

It has a high Vitamin K content and is good for helping with bleeding disorders that can result from long-term use of antibiotics.

As with any supplement I blog about, dispense with caution.  Vitamin K has been linked to cases of  Heinz-body anemia if it is taken in large quantities.


I feed Alfalfa sprouts to my dog, but intermittently. 

You can grow your own Alfalfa sprouts at home.  Here's a link of instructions:
http://www.backyardnature.net/simple/alf-spr.htm

Give your dog some Kelp Help

Kelp is considered a sea vegetable. Kelp is actually algae which makes them different from other food sources such as plants and animals. They have exotic names like Nori, Hijiki, Kombu, Wakame, Arame also known as Seaweed and Kelp.

Kelp can help your dog.  Kelp will provide iodine to the body and help the functioning of he thyroid gland, which influences overall health, metabolism, skin and coat.  It can also help with pigmentation.  It contains protein, is rich in iodine, calcium, mangesium, iron, copper, phosphorus and potassium as well as vitamins A, B, E and D.

Because kelp contains so many of the critical components for dog nutrition it promotes good health and long life in many ways including: better digestion, control and relief of skin and coat disorders, relief and prevention of allergic reactions, healing from injuries, higher resistance to infection, cell rejuvenation, detoxifying, and joint repair.


There are many reasons for using kelp as a dog supplement, some of which are maintaining a healthy thyroid gland, healthy joints, and healthy coat and skin.

So please consider adding kelp to your dog's diet and give your dog some kelp help.

Warm up and Cool down your dog Before Playtime

Please remember that anytime you exercise your dog and this means playtime too, warm him up first and cool him down afterwards.  This is the best way to prevent injuries to your dog.  In this, age doesn't matter.  All dogs need a good warm up and cool down, even younger dogs.  The warm-up stimulates the delivery of increased oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.

Don't forget to stretch your dog too.  Stretches will limber up the tendons and ligaments.  You should encourage your dog to do some play bows - you can think downward facing dog if you're a yoga buff.  You can also encourage some spins and waves.  You should teach your dgo to do bends by having him face you and then reach to either side to get a treat.  This is a great stretch for loosening the neck and body muscles.  Give a quick 2-3 minute all-over massage to loosen stiff muscles and joints and you're ready to go!

Have fun Safely!

Benefits of Massage for a Stressed Dog

Prolonged periods of stress can negatively affect many systems of the human body, so to can it effect that of your dog.

Stress in dogs can aggravate, or even cause, such problems as gastrointestinal disorders and decreased immune function. You may notice an increase in whining, pacing, hair loss or even lethargy.  Stress effects your dog both mentally and physically.  It can even make your dog anti-social.
Dog massage therapy is one of the best antidotes for stress. We know this is true on an intuitive level but I know some of you find it hard to process even to this day.  Massage for dogs is not a SPAW DAY.  Massage works to soothe aches and pains and diminish anxiety and other stressors.  Imagine this type of therapy given to your dog by a certified expert and the benefits are increased.

Think about the rituals of massage which includes dimmed lights, soothing music, the pleasant fragrance of a mild oil or candle - even without massage, these can help your dog relax! Why do we think dogs are so different.  If we benefit from these things so can your dog.

Massage boosts your dog's immune system, which can become compromised from extended periods of stress. Tension can build up in their muscles, causing a decrease in circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues.

Manipulation of the soft tissue decreases muscular tension, increases removal of metabolic waste and promotes nutrient delivery to healing tissue. Knots in their muscles can inhibit their ability to perform everyday activities like going for a walk with you or playing in the dog park. When other parts of their body try to compensate for the ache of a tight muscle, they also start to become tight and uncomfortable. After a while, an injury that began in neck area can gravitate to their leg and even to their hind quarters.  The chain reaction can take many forms and none are pleasant.

In short, therapeutic massage can help to significanlty reduce stress. This, in turn, will increase energy, improve your dog's health and boost his immune system function. Add some good holistic nutrition, exercise and music therapy and you will see a different dog.... a happy dog.