Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Pug aces math test!

A 3-year-old dog living in a Northwest Province of China, knows how to add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers up to 10.

The small, white pug known as "WaWa" ( meaning "baby"), can correctly answer questions such as "How many is 2+2 equal to?" and "How many is 3 x 3 equal to?"
WaWa responds by barking the appropriate number of times and sitting when finished.

To test the claims, a reporter visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Pang where Wawa lives.

"How many is 9 divided by 3 equal to?" asked the reporter. Wawa barked 3 times and sat on the floor.
Skeptics, believing that Mr. Pang was covertly signaling the answers to Wawa, decided to test the dog without Mr. Pang present. Wawa still responded with perfect accuracy.

Mr. Pang says he began tutoring Wawa in math two years ago after noticing that the pooch showed a natural sensitivity to numbers. He began with hand gestures, showing one finger and saying, "Wawa, this is one," and training the dog to bark once. After a few weeks, Wawa graduated to 2, 3, 4 and so on. Within 6 months, the precocious pup had mastered 1-10 and began learning arithmetic operations.

What's next for Wawa? Geometry, maybe. Everyone knows dogs love to sink their teeth into pi.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Good health in old age

A healthy dog is happy and carefree. He is alert, inquisitive and the eyes are bright and clear. He will immediately notice and react to any change in his environment. His coat is shiny, his fur is thick and evenly distributed over his body. He enjoys movement and is playful when young.

When you come home the tail is wagging - and you are welcomed by a happy dog. When you are ready to go for a walk, he senses this in advance.

He has a good appetite and eats without hesitiation, finishing every bite. He drinks now and again - not too little, not too much.

He produces formed stools 2-3 times a day - the color depending on what he has been eating.
The dog's bodily orifices such as jaws, ears, eyes, anus and vagina are squeaky clean - neither dirty nor sticky and no unpleasant smell.

What is important to your dog?


For the dog, the MOST important thing is his relationship with his master - the person who brings him up lovingly and consistently - giving praise and occasionally a reprimand. Brushing his coat and other grooming related gestures are felt by the dog as an expression of love.

Special characteristics of old age


Ageing is a complex process which begins at birth - here are 2 main principals of ageing:
  1. a decrease and reduction in the supply of blood to all organs including the brain.
  2. an accumulation of toxins, the body's own 'rubbish', in the tissues - metabolism slows down and waste is no longer satisfactorily expelled.
What can we do?
The diseases associated with old age can be, to a great extent, moderated or even totally eliminated by using preventivie measures. Apply these measures while you dog is still healthy - there is no 'cure' for getting old!

The first anti-ageing remedy is to reduce the meat in the diet by half - and compensting for this by giving protein from living animals, yogurt, cottage cheese and eggs.

The second is to use herbal and homeopathic remedies - mild and gentle, these remedies frequently prove possilbe to prevent the dog from falling ill. (See our Senior Dog Kits )

Friday, October 1, 2010

Why Organic?

The Organic Premise: Many pet owners are aware that food grown organically is free from exposure to harmful herbicides and pesticides, but that is only one small aspect of organic agriculture. 

A larger part of organic agriculture involves the health of the soil. Organic farmers recognize that healthy, vibrant, and live soils and ecosystems significantly benefit crops. Natural, undisturbed soil is alive with microbiotic organisms that exist in harmony with the native plant life.

Synthetic chemicals (such as herbicides, pesticides, and/or fast acting inorganic fertilizers) applied in or around crops interrupt or destroy the microbiotic activity in the soil. Once the microbiotic activity in the soil has stopped, the soil becomes merely an anchor for plant material. In this conventional method of agriculture (in use for only the past 75 of 10,000 years of recorded agriculture) plants can receive only air, water, and sunlight from their environment -- everything else must be distributed to plants by farmers, often from inputs transported thousands of miles to reach the farm. Plants are commonly fed only the most basic elements of plant life and so are dependent on the farmer to fight nature's challenges, e.g. pests, disease, and drought.

So what about our dogs? Dogs have even a greater need for fresh, wholesome, organic food. Our pets are smaller and do not live as long as us humans, so toxic ingredients work more quickly to cause 'dis-ease'. The food you feed your dog turns into dog - out dogs are made up of the food they eat. This is why it is important to feed fresh, wholesome. organic food. 

It takes its toll... Dog are very adaptable - they are carnivore and 'omnivores' and can eat all sorts of things - some quite unsavory. Over time the constant intake of food that is preserved with chemical, artificial colors and flavors and ingredients that may contain toxic chemicals build up and begin to accumulate in the organs of your dog. What happens next is that the dog can no longer process or effectively eliminate the toxins and these are the points where the energy stops flowing and disease begins to set in.

Enter GreenPower! - Our Natural Canine GreenPower! is concentrated and 100% Organic! We cannot stress how important this supplement is for dog owners who are feeding home-prepared diets - whether they be cooked, raw, or combination. All you need is a small amount - our 200g container lasts about 3 months for a medium sized dog. Very economical and highly recommended.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Pred? What's it all about...

WHAT IS PREDNISONE?
Prednisone is a synthetic hormone commonly referred to as a "steroid". Prednisone is very similar to the hormone Cortisone, which your own body manufactures. Prednisone is used to treat many illnesses.

HOW DOES PREDNISONE WORK?
Prednisone acts in part as an immunosuppressant. "Immune" refers to the immune system. The immune system protects you against foreign bacteria, virus, etc. In some illnesses, the immune system produces antibodies which become overactive and cause undesirable effects. Prednisone suppresses the production of antibodies. This can make it slightly harder for your to fight off infection, but also stabilizes the immune system if it is overactive. 
Prednisone also works against inflammation to reduce the heat, redness, swelling, and pain. 
When beginning Prednisone, there is a small chance that it may cause increased weakness for a short period of time. It therefore may be necessary for you to be hospitalized for the first few days for observation.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF PREDNISONE?
Side effects do not occur in all patients and are usually related to the amount and length of time Prednisone is used. Potential side effects will be monitored by your vet and include:


Weight gain. Prednisone increases appetite. Follow a diet to maintain weigh. Develop and feeding schedule and stick to it. 


Susceptible to infections. Prednisone slightly decreases your dog's resistance to infection. Avoid dogs with infectious illnesses if possible. Notify you vet if your dog develop persistent signs of an infection. 


Stomach upset or ulcer. Prednisone may increase acid secretion. Give Prednisone with meals, milk or antacids. Do not take on an empty stomach. 


Insomnia and mood changes. The cause is uncertain. It is best to take prednisone at least 3 hours before bedtime. If you are on a daily schedule it is best to take it in the morning. 


Hyperglycemia. Prednisone may increase the amount of sugar in  blood to rise. This can be treated by your vet. 


Hypertension. Prednisone may cause blood pressure to rise. This can be treated by your vet, if necessary. 


Fluid retention. Prednisone can cause dog to retain fluid. This will be monitored by your vet. 


Osteoporosis. Prednisone can make bones become brittle. This usually occurs after taking Prednisone for a prolonged time. It may be recommended that you give a calcium supplement.


Alterations in hair growth. Prednisone can cause a darkening and/or increase in hear growth. This disappears when the dose of Prednisone is decreased. 


Cataracts. After prolonged use of Prednisone, cataracts may develop occasionally. This will be monitored by your vet by periodic examinations. 


Skin changes. Prednisone can cause a change in the condition of  skin. 


Nausea, vomiting, pain, fever, and/or flare-up of disease. Rapid withdrawal or stopping of Prednisone may cause these side effects. Never stop or change your Prednisone dose without your vet's consent.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Our Philosophy - Good Canine Health

Good Canine Health

What does it mean for your dog to be healthy?
Most of us would say that their health simply means not being sick. Our dogs are considered to be healthy if they don’t show any obvious signs of disease.


Health is much more than the mere absence of disease. Health is a state of complete balance of our pet’s physiological, emotional well being (temperament), energy and flexibility. In a Health/Disease Model (either healthy or sick), health and disease form two ends of a continuum. As the body drifts out of balance, your dog’s general resistance is impaired, and she will start to move toward the middle of the Health/Disease continuum, experiencing  minor ailments such as allergies, skin, ear, digestive problems, changes in behavior, joint problems, etc. Diagnosable illness results from increasing imbalances on the ‘‘micro-level’ of physiological functioning. These are most often caused by the poor quality of commercial food, even the so-called ‘premium’ brands (dead and lifeless). Over time, these subtle imbalances gradually lead to a breakdown of the ‘‘macro-level’ physiological processes and the emergence of what we call disease. In other words, long before diagnosable symptoms appear in your dog, there exist detectable preconditions for disease.


I would like to present another model for you to consider. In this model the disease process passes through six stages of development.


1. Accumulation – the first stage is the accumulation of imbalances in the physiology – in this stage you are feeding bagged food and your dog ‘looks’ healthy – but on the micro-level the over processed ‘food’, toxins and metabolic wastes have begun to clog up the system.
2. Aggravation – this is stage two when the imbalances have accumulated to the point where they are predisposed to spread. If the imbalances are not corrected at this point then the third stage begins. (“She did really well on this food for years!”)
3. Dissemination – this is the actual spreading of imbalances through tissues and organs. (“He doesn’t act like he used to…”)
4. Localization – with their localization in certain tissues or organs, imbalances will begin to cause sub clinical impairment. This impairment reaches the point where you begin to notice that something is not quite right;
5. Manifestation – when actual symptoms occur. (“She never used to shake her head and scratch all the time, maybe we should bring her to the vet…”)
6. Disruption – this is the sixth and final stage of the disease process which, if not checked, will progress to the point of impairment, disability or death. (“Your telling me my dog has diabetes??”)


As long as the health and disease are viewed as a dichotomy in which the dog is considered either healthy or sick, then certainly the bulk of health care efforts must focus on neutralizing (suppressing) or removing factors that cause the slide toward the Disease end of the continuum.


The answer is a balanced, home-prepared diet made of fresh, wholesome, chemical-free, real food. Raw, cooked, and combination cooked/raw diets will provide the benefits of a healthy, vibrant, disease-free life!

NaturalCanine.com


Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of medicine that utilizes micro-doses of natural substances -- herbs, bark, seeds, berries, flowers, minerals and animal matter. Unlike powerful pharmaceutical drugs, homeopathic remedies have no side-effects or interactions with other medications. The use of conventional drugs and preparations often means the risk of side effects. In some cases, the "cure" is worse than the problem. An example is steroids to treat skin conditions also destroy the liver.
Although the principles of homeopathy date back to the great Greek physician Hippocrates, and before him to the ancient Hindus, modern homeopathy was founded in 1810 by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. The system is based on a concept called the law of similars in which remedies containing minute amounts of natural substances stimulate the body's own defenses against specific symptoms and imbalances. These substances, if they were given in large doses to healthy individuals or animals, would produce those same symptoms.


Here's an Example: If you were to cut an onion, you would quickly experience watery eyes and a runny nose. In homeopathy, a remedy made from onions (allium cepa) is often applied to relieve the runny nose and watery eyes common in colds and hayfever. A coffee remedy is often used to calm the nerves and help promote sleep. Sulfur, in a large dose, can cause a rash. In homeopathic amounts, it can help heal rashes, scratching and skin problems, and is a popular remedy for those conditions in animals.


The ingredients in homeopathic medicines are so diluted that they carry virtually no trace of the original substance. For this reason they cause no side effects. Homeopathic remedies are FDA approved - (the doctor who started the FDA was a homeopathic physician!)


The healing power of homeopathy does not come directly from the substances themselves, but rather from the energy released from them during a special refining process of shaking and dilution.


Visit our Homeopathy Page

Healthy Digestion

Healthy Digestion

Diarrhea, Gas, Digestive Upsets, Colitis and IBS
Dogs tend to eat many unsavory things they shouldn’t, which is why diarrhea and vomiting are so common. When the problem persists for weeks and months, instead of days, your dog could have a more serious digestive problem. Conventional therapy is to give medications to stop the symptoms - typically steroids for inflammation and antibiotics to control bacteria, and other drugs to control diarrhea (read more below).


The Natural Approach - Many holistic vets recommend a natural approach based on using herbs, homeopathy and diet to soothe, heal and strengthen the dogs digestive and regulatory organs. We have had tremendous success with our control diet, herbal and homeopathic approach. Many owner’s dogs had been on steroids and antibiotics for months or years and are now completely drug free.


Vomiting, Diarrhea and Gastritis - what’s happening with your dog’s digestion?


Conventional Treatment
Conventional vets often prescribe antibiotics, antacids (Pepcid and Tagamet) and steroids for gastrointestinal upsets. These medications function by reducing or stopping the normal stomach acids that naturally occur in the stomach to aid digestion! Antibiotics indiscriminately kill the beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that do not correct the underlying causes.


Conventional treatments simply mask or cover up the symptoms and never resolve the underlying cause. The suppression of symptoms results in an endless (and discomforting) cycle of vomiting, diarrhea and gas for the dog.


The Cause
According to Donald Strombeck DVM, PhD, excess stomach acid is not the real villain. Bacterial invaders, such as Helicobacter pylori, Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus feacalis, e coli, and others are present in as much as 83% of commercial foods. These bacteria burrow into the mucosal lining of the stomach, wreaking havoc when gastric acid burns the lining causing a sore (ulcer). Dogs may harbor these bacteria for years leading to chronic gastrointestinal disorders.


Lowering acid levels
Low levels of stomach acid also allow harmful bacteria to multiply in stagnant pockets along the GI tract. This is called diverticulitis - an inflammation in the pouches where the bacteria has flourished. Excess gas is produced and antibiotics compound the problem because they indiscriminately kill the resident flora, both the naturally occurring beneficial bacteria and the bacterial invaders.


Diet and Incontinence

Diet may be directly related to urinary incontinence.
Why? The reason has to do with moisture balance within the body. Commercial dry foods need to be hydrated. When your dogs eats dry food the moisture required to hydrate those dry nuggets comes from the tissues, cells and organs (this dehydrates the body on a cellular level). When the moisture is robbed from these cells and organs, an imbalance is created in the body including the urogenital tract. The result of this moisture imbalance is a chronic inflammation of the bladder. When the dog gulps water, this is not sufficient to re-hydrate the cells as most of the water goes into the stomach and quickly passes through the bladder placing an additional stress on the system.


All moisture should come from the food. When a home-prepared meal or Sojo's Pre-mix is fed, the food contains about 80% nutrient rich moisture that goes into the cells during normal assimilation of the food in the intestines. Dogs eating a home-prepared meal rarely drink water (except when exercising)! Almost all their moisture needs comes from the food. This produces normal moisture balance and returns the urogenital tract to its normal state.


I don't have time to cook. If preparing food for your dog seems like a daunting task - it isn't! Meals are easy to prepare or you can have a look at our Sojo's foods. It is amazing how dogs respond to real, wholesome food. More energy, healthy coat and of course, a marked improvement in bladder control.


NOTE: Certain incontinence problems come from bladder infections or from hormone imbalances and will not respond to gentle natural remedies. See your vet to understand why your dog is incontinent.

NaturalCanine.com


Diet and Health

A pet’s diet determines its health and life expectancy more than any other care.



Think about these statements for a moment.
  • The diet determines your dog’s health and life expectancy more than any other care.
  • Your dog is made up of the food it eats. The food becomes your dog – food literally turns into dog!
These statements are very powerful and for those pet owners who are concerned about the health and well being of their dogs, it is important to understand the relationship between fresh, wholesome food and optimal health.

Our modern dog’s ancestors got all their nutrition from their prey as well as grazing on wild berries. Protein and fat came from meat and organs (amino acids), calcium from crunching on bones, and vegetables and grains (vitamins/minerals, enzymes)) from the digestive organs and ripened berries. Dental care came from chewing through skin and bones – teeth were naturally scrubbed clean.


As time passed, dogs formed a relationship with people and the diet began to change. Hunting was no longer necessary as humans fed the new domesticated dog scraps of wholesome food, bones and vegetables.


In more modern times, dogs moved indoors and commercial foods came into the market. Dogs began having symptoms they never had before; like bad breath, itchy skin, dull, dry coats, arthritis, diabetes, thyroid conditions, intestinal disorders, ear infections, heart, liver and kidney disease and various cancers.


Some of these symptoms and diseases actually began to be considered normal!


What happened? What went wrong?


From a nutritional viewpoint this is easy to explain. Compare these two types of diets:

Commercial/processed Food diets


  • Highly processed and extruded into kibble. Contain meats and fats that need no refrigeration (how is this possible?).
  • Food is ‘dead and inert’ and sprayed with chemical vitamins and protein digest for palatability.
  • Food may contain several strains of bacteria, drug residues, colorings, flavorings, diseased tissues, chemical additives, and preservatives.


Fresh food diets


  • Minimally processed (sometimes raw), containing naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and micronutrients.
  • Meats are added fresh and contain no hormones, anti-biotic, or drug residues. Food contains ‘living’ nutrients that feed and nourish cells and tissues.
  • No need for flavorings, colorings or preservatives.
Now, lets look back to the statement: “Your dog is made up of the food it eats. The food becomes your dog – food literally turns into dog!”


It is clear to see from this list that if your dog is made up of the unsavory substances found in most commercial foods, their health will be greatly compromised. Over time (and it can take many years) your dog’s health will begin to reflect those substances from which he is made.

Back to the basics.



A balanced diet will do wonders for your dog’s health and well being. A healthy, fresh, natural diet will help support your dog with any disease or condition! Many conditions may be helped or improved by diet alone – these include skin conditions, digestive disorders, bad breath, incontinence, arthritis, urinary (kidney bladder) and dull coat to name a few.
NaturalCanine.com


Thursday, September 9, 2010

WHAT ARE CELL SALTS and BIOPLASMA?

Cell Salts are a group of homeopathic remedies made from minerals. There are 12 basic mineral or tissue cell salts in our bodies. Cell Salts are not measured like supplements , but are in minute homeopathic potency. In homeopathic potency, Cell Salts balance the mineral in the dog and help their utilization of the mineral from concentrations in the blood and minerals from food and supplements.


Cell Salts are safe for dogs with digestive problems. Cell Salts do not have binders and since they dissolve in the mouth they do not need to be broken down in the stomach. 


The Cell Salts are a wonderful way to help the dog take up nutrients.


Cell Salts are a good way to become introduced to Homeopathy. Minerals in homeopathic potency are quite an advantage over supplemental forms. Here are some basic benefits of homeopathic Bioplasma:


1) Immediately absorbed through the first line of digestion-the saliva.
2) Without the need for the body to break down the minerals, they are effective for dogs with digestive problems, as well as puppies, senior dogs or dogs with severe health conditions.
3) Safety because Cell Salts do not have additives or binders that stress the liver,and potenization eliminates the questions of getting too much, avoiding problems, such as bowel tolerance that cause diarrhea (seen with supplemental magnesium), or constipation (associated with iron supplements). 
4) Enables more efficient use of that mineral in the body, whether from a food source or from supplements. 


Cell Salts are not a substitute for a balanced diet or supplements, but improve absorption and utilization of that mineral. 


WHY ARE CELL SALTS ESSENTIAL?


Because minerals are the foundation for enzyme activity in the body and serveas catalysts in energy cycles and functions. For example, the body must first have minerals to make vitamins or make use of vitamins regardless of the source. Cell Salts are used in the basic functioning of the cells including water balance, digestion, removing toxins, elasticity of the cells, oxygenation, nutrition, sodium/potassium balance etc. Cell Salts are my first suggestion for people new to homeopathy because of the ease of selection and dosing, the safety in potency and the quick results. 


BUY CELL SALTS


FAQ'S ON CELL SALTS


Q. How Many Cell Salts are there?
A. There are 12 basic Cell Salts:
3 Calcium minerals: Calcium Fluoride, Calcium Phos & Calcium Sulphate
3 Potassium minerals: Kali Mur, Kali Phosphate & Kali Sulphur
3 Sodium minerals: Natrum Phosphate, Natrum Sulphur & Natrum Mur
Plus: Ferrum Phosphate (iron); Magnesia Phosphate (magnesium); Silicea (silica); .


Q. Is there a Homeopathic Remedy that will help my dog's entire system?
A. Yes, Bioplasma supports the entire body and immune system. Bioplasma is a combination of 12 Cell Salts. Bioplasma can be given to your dog daily to keep their health and energy at their best. Use Bioplasma before and after exercise to maintain electrolyte level. Use when the dog is stressed or starting to feel ill or out of balance. Bioplasma is useful for dogs for general health care and healing.


Q. What is Bioplasma?
A. Bioplasma is a combination of all 12 Cell Salts. Bioplasma includes:


Calcarea Fluorica 6X(Calcium Fluoride)
Calcarea Phosphorica 3X (Calcium Phosphorus)
Calcarea Sulphuricum 3X (Calcium Sulphur)
Ferrum Phosphoricum 3X (Ferrum Phos-iron)
Kali Muriaticum 3X (Kali Mur-potassium)
Kali Phosphorica 3X (Kali Phos-potassium)
Kali Sulphuricum 3X (Kali Sulphur-potassium)
Magnesia Phosphorica 3X (Magnesium Phosphorus)
Natrum Muriaticum 6X (Natrum Mur)
Natrum Phosphoricum 3X (Natrum Phosphorus)
Natrum Sulphuricum 3X (Natrum Sulphur)
Silicea 6X (Silica)


BUY CELL SALTS


Q. What is the difference between Bioplasma and the individual Cell Salts?
A. Bioplasma is a remedy in itself. It keeps the minerals in balance & can be given to your dog daily to keep energy levels high, boost the immune system, and keep their physical performance at its best.Think of Bioplasma as a homeopathic One-A-Day general supplement.


More info:


The Calcium Cell Salts are important for bone and dental health, and skin healing. Calcium Phosphate is the Cell Salt for growth and health of the bones. Deficiency symptoms include aching pains, growing pains, bone ailments. Calcium Fluoride is the Cell Salt for problems with the surface of bones and skin. A much safer source of fluoride than supplemental fluoride. Deficiency symptoms include poor dental enamel; spider and varicose veins. Calcium Sulphate deficiency symptoms include acne and other skin problems, slow healing wounds, abscesses, swollen glands, negativity, apathy. 


The Potassium Cell Salts are important for emotional health. Deficiency symptoms include nervousness, anxiety, mental confusion. Kali Mur deficiency symptoms include colds, sinus inflammation,arthritis inflammation, lack of energy and interest. Kali Phosphate deficiency symptoms include anxiety, irritability.poor memory and physical fatigue. Kali Sulphate corrects the functioning of oils in the body. Deficiency symptoms show up as dryness and in the later stages of inflammation including acne and intestinal disorders. Mental symptoms include worry and lack of judgment.


The 3 Sodium Cell Salts balance fluids and water in the body and supportthe functioning of the kidneys, pancreas, stomach and digestive system. Natrum Mur helps with edema, headache, weakness in the sun or heat, chronic sinus conditions. Natrum Phosphate is for complaints of the digestive system. Give right before meals for improved digestion. Deficiency symptoms include acidity, indigestion. Natrum Sulphate for strengthening pancreatic functioning. 


Ferrum Phosphate is the oxygenating Cell Salt, so remember for physical fatigue. Useful for inflammation, fever, and infection. 
Magnesium Phosphate is found inside the cells of muscles and nerves. Deficiency symptoms include muscle pain, muscle fatigue, muscle spasms. 
Silicea is the fur and skin remedy. Deficiency includes excess perspiration, unhealthy skin, brittle nails and hair.


BUY CELL SALTS

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Why Dogs are Better than Cats - a new book

Dogs and Cats. Friends or Foes?

The conflict between the species, like the debate between their owners, has continued for centuries. Bradley Trevor Greive finally puts the debate to rest by teaming up with world renowned photographer Rachael Hale to present Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats
 · Dogs match up to people. People must match up to cats.
· Dogs teach us patience. Cats test our patience.
· The bottom line is this: Dogs want love. Cats want fish.
Dogs are social. Cats are sociopaths.

This is what sets dogs apart from other animals, especially cats: dogs genuinely have a sense of what we are trying to communicate. And with a little patience, we can also understand most of their feelings and intentions, too. If you talk to dogs, they listen. To cats, virtually everything you say is background noise, including their names. They may turn to observe you dispassionately for a moment, but having established that no tuna tidbits are forthcoming, they will tune out quicker than a twitch of the tail.

(One can almost envision the twitch of the cat's tail while walking away indignantly).


Dogs are gifted judges of character. They instictively know who to trust and, with few exceptions, take an immediate dislike to shabby, unpleasant people.

Cats, however, cannot distinguish between an ax murderer and a flying nun and they are likely to adore or attack both at any given moment.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Common Mouth Signals - Dogs

A guide to canine mouth signals:

1. Mouth relaxed and slightly open, tongue may be slightly visible or even slightly draped over the lower teeth: This is the dog equivalent of the human smile. It means "I am happy and relaxed."

2. Yawn: While it is usually interpreted by humans as meaning fatigue or boredom, it can actually be a stress-related signal, best interpreted as "I am tense or anxious."

3. Lips curled to expose some teeth, mouth still mostly closed: "You are annoying me!" This is the first sign of menace or threat.

4. Lips curled up to show major teeth, some wrinkling of the area above the nose, mouth partly open: "If you do something that I might interpret as a threat, I may bite." This is the next stage of threat but may also indicate fearfulness. Pressing a dog at this stage may lead to an aggressive attack.

5. Lips curled up to expose not only all of the teeth but also the gums above the front teeth, visible wrinkles above the nose: "Back off!" This is the full threat display that indicates a dog is ready to release a violent attack. If you are ever confronted with this display, you should not turn and run: the level of arousal is so high that your movement will probably produce a pursuit-and-attack response. Instead, cast your gaze slightly down (a slightly submissive eye position), open your mouth a bit (a bit of a counter-threat), and back off slowly.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

The lighter side

A guy wasdriving down a country road when he saw a sign in front of a house,
'Talking Dog forSale '
He rang the bell and the owner told him the dog was in thebackyard.
The guy went into the backyard and saw a Labrador sitting there..'You talk?' he asked.
'Yes,' the Lab replied.
'So, what's the story?'

The Lab looked up and said, 'Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the government, so I told the CIA about mygift, and in no time at all they had me flying from country to country, sittingin rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would beeavesdropping. I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running.'
'But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn't getting anyyounger so I decided to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to dosome undercover security wandering near suspicious characters and listening in.I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I gotmarried, had a load of puppies, and now I'm just retired.'
The guy was amazed. He goes back in and asked the owner what he wantedfor the dog.
'Ten bucks.' the man said.
'Ten dollars!!?? This dog is amazing. Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?'
'Because he's a liar. He never did any of that stuff.'

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Nettles - Nature's multivitamin


Nettle (Urtica dioica) is an amazing herb! Let learn a little about this plant.


APPEARANCE: Stinging Nettle is an erect plant that can grow as high as 7 feet. It reproduces from its shallow root system and grows in dense patches. The leaves are lance-shaped with toothed margins. Flowers hang in drooping clusters. The stems are covered with fine, stinging hairs.


HABITAT AND RANGE: Nettles inhabit drainage ditches, stream banks and other moist soils throughout North America.


PARTS USED: Leaves and stems of the pre-flowering plant.


PRIMARY MEDICINAL ACTIVITIES: Nutritive, antihistamine, astringent, tonic, helps with blood cleansing.


NETTLES AND DOGS: The tiny hairs on the live plant (not what the dog eats) causes a burning sting. Fortunately this is short lived and drying the herb neutralizes the plants 'sting' - so in the dried form, this herb is completley safe. In fact, 100 grams of dried Nettle contain:
  • 30.4 grams of crude protein
  • 2970 milligrams of calcium
  • 680 mg of phosphorus
  • 32.2 mg iron
  • 650 mg magnesium
  • 20.2 mg beta carotene
  • 3450 mg of potassium
  • Vitamins A, C, D and B complex
...all in a highly palatable form that is easily assimilated into the body without adding stress on the liver, kidney or digestive tract.



This is amazing - how do I give this to my dog?
We recommend our Organic Green Alternative which contain a balanced blend of herbs including NETTLES!


CLICK HERE TO ORDER

Dog Help Build Children's Confidence in Reading


The Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program improves children's reading and communication skills by employing a powerful method: reading to a dog.


But not just any dog. R.E.A.D. dogs are registered therapy animals who volunteer with their owner/handlers as a team, going to schools, libraries and many other settings as reading companions for children.



R.E.A.D. sessions allow teams of human and dog volunteers to visit with children and motivate them to learn and read in a non-judgemental environment. If a child stumbles when they read to an adult, they often feel judged and lose confidence - but... read to a dog and all that changes. If they mis-pronounce a word or mix up the sentence - the dog loves the reader just the same... and the child knows it! Confidence builds - they can read the sentence again, improving skill and building confidence.


Today, thousands of registered R.E.A.D. teams work throughout the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and beyond. R.E.A.D. is one of those ideas that, in the words of Bill Moyers, "pierces the mundane to arrive at the marvelous."
Intermountain Therapy Animals, a nonprofit organization, launched R.E.A.D. in 1999 as the first comprehensive literacy program built around the appealing idea of reading to dogs, and the program has been spreading rapidly and happily ever since!


More info here

Exercise - Health - Diet

The National Academy of Sciences reports that one out of every four dogs in the western world is now overweight.


Obese dogs are more prone to almost every major illness (diabetes, cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease and digestive troubles) Lean dogs tend to live longer.


Exercise can improve your dog's physical and mental health, but it is important to find the best exercise routine for you and your dog. Here are some workout tips for dogs:
  • Consider your dog's age, health, condition and current activity level. Check with a vet before beginning anything vigorous.
  • Make sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times when you are exercising in public. You don't want your dog to get distracted by cars, people or other dogs.
  • Letting your dog out in your backyard doesn't qualify as exercise; however, a good game of fetch may do the trick.
  • When exercising your dog, try to keep it on a grassy or earth surface. A hot sidewalk or sharp gravel surface is hard on a dog's paws. Always remember to bring along clean water and a portable bowl so you can offer your dog a drink if needed.
  • Stop exercising immediately if your dog begins to pant too rapidly. Dogs can suffer from heat stroke, so make sure your dog is not overexerting itself.
  • Pay special attention to your dog's footpads and toenails. If there are any abrasions or cuts, stop exercising until they have completely healed.
  • When starting your dog on any exercise program, begin slowly to build up its endurance level; too vigorous a workout may cause injury.

A good long walk with intermittent jogging or stopping to play a little fetch is excellent - in the wild a dog will walk at a good pace for hours, then maybe chase an animal, then go back to the 'dog walk' or rest for a while - it's OK to take a break!

What about diet?


Diet plays a huge role - this should not surprise you. One of the main benefits of feeding fresh, home prepared diets is that your dog will naturally lose excess weight (takes several weeks) and naturally find his/her true weight. Most home-preparers discover that all the paunchy fat disappears, the dog's shape will actually change as fat dissolves and muscle builds. You will also notice that your dog smells great, a clean, fresh, natural smell comes from the fur, skin, ears and mouth - it's really amazing. Fresh food dogs move around more because their energy level increases! The 'living energy' of the fresh food (impossible with any kibble) is transferred to the cells of the dog - remember, the food becomes the dog - we cannot stress this enough as a benefit of home prepared meals.




Saturday, January 9, 2010

Calcium Oxalate Stones - Canine Dietary Management

Calcium Oxalate calculi (stones) develop because the urine is saturated with calcium and oxalate. Oxalate is formed from carbohydrate-like chemicals found in many commercial dog foods.


Inhibitors of oxalate calculi formation include phosphorus, magnesium and citrate. The stones form more readily in acid urine - however the crystals do not form in acid urine when magnesium is normal or increased.

The conclusion is dietary magnesium is important for preventing calcium oxalate calculi.

The following diet contains low oxalate,
 and minimum calcium. They also contain normal phosphorus which prevents absorption of excess calcium. A calcium oxalate diet should contain minimum vitamin D  to minimize calcium absorption. Avoid high doses of Vitamin C.

Adult Dogs with Oxalate Stones

Black-Eyed Peas and Rice Diet

2/3 cup black-eyed peas (cooked) look for canned beans in a health food store

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 teaspoon Flax Oil
2 teaspoons Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon Bone Meal
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute (potassium chloride)
1/2 teaspoon Green Power
1 Treatamin (low potency multivitamin)
pinch of table salt (sodium chloride)

This diet is for a 21-22 pound dog (696 cal, 19.3 grams protein, 17.8 grams fat) Calcium at 55%, phosphorus at 102%, sodium at 33% and vitamin D at 63%.

Substitutions:
Brown Rice - you may substitute 1 1/2 cup Potato, cooked with skins (cut into cubes)
Black-eyed peas - you may substitute pinto beans or 5 oz cooked Salmon, Halibut or Scallops
Note - health food stores or Co-ops have a wide variety of canned beans - look for NO SALT.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Arthritis Support Kit - great results - comprehensive approach

Arthritis Support Kit Testimonials

#1 Thanks for combining the orders - I couldn't believe I forgot to order the Sea Muscle; it has really seemed to improve Barkley's back leg muscle strength!! I'm so thankful for the products and information you offer, Barkley's overall health has improved so much over the past several months!! Thanks again.
________________________________


#2 Hi, friends: Right after I ordered the remedy, Jackie seemed somewhat better. Then the day the remedy arrived she was quite stiff when she got up and was limping somewhat by evening. Well, this morning, she's like a pup. No stiffness, no limping! She got out her toys this morning and had a romp before I left for work. (I didn't allow her to overdo it). But I have to say that I am AMAZED at how this stuff works. I really want to learn more about homeopathy.


What is Arthritis?

Osteoarthritis: is a form of degenerative joint disease. There is often a genetic component to the disease and symptoms are often progressive with age. It can involve the deterioration of and changes to the cartilage and bone. In response to inflammation in and about the joint, the body responds with bony remodeling around the joint structure. This process can be slow and gradual with minimal outward symptoms, or more rapidly progressive with significant pain and discomfort. Osteoarthritic changes can occur in response to infection and injury of the joint as well.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Do you suspect that your dog might have arthritis?
Veterinarians have developed a list of signs that might indicate that your dog has arthritis. Look for the following symptoms:
  • inactivity
  • reluctance to lie down or get up
  • trouble running and climbing stairs
  • audible "clicking" when walking
  • change in behavior that seems to indicate pain
  • swelling and inflammation of the joints
  • limping
  • limited movements and lack of desire to exercise
Should your dog exhibit one or more of these signs on a recurring basis, don't hesitate to take her in for a checkup.

The Natural Canine Approach

It may not surprise you to read that we recommend a holistic (treat the whole dog) approach. As with any condition, diet is very important - feeding fresh, home prepared meals helps your dog lose weight naturally. Excess weight, even a few pounds, places unnecessary stress on joints! Next, we recommend three products:
1. Homeopathic Joint Stress - specially formulated for relief from Joint Stiffness, Muscle Tension, Pain in lower back and Joint areas. (liquid drops)

2. Natural Canine Pet Joint Ease - Herbal formula to support joint health and ease of movement. These herbs may be given long-trem. Expect to see results in 1-2 weeks. Our herbal formulas are designed for long-term support (powder)
3. Sea Mussel - A New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel Supplement to Support Connective Tissue and Joint Functions. (capsule)

Visit our website to see all our Arthritis Support Products

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Brushing your dog's teeth!

It isn't difficult to brush a dog's teeth, and with positive reinforcement, it will become an enjoyable routine. Here's what you need for supplies:
  • Canine toothpaste (chicken flavor is best!)
  • Canine toothbrush - specially designed
  • PhytoDent - herbal oral rub for gums and teeth
The above items and instructions are included in our
Order Teeth Cleaning Kit

NOTE - never use a human toothpaste - they are toxic to dog. The toothpaste is swallowed by your dog so it must be non-toxic.

Give Her a Treat
A reward routine is the best way to introduce your dog to dental hygiene. Initially, for a period of 2 weeks, invite your dog to come to a specially designated area for brushing his/her teeth. Ask her to sit and then give her a small treat when she sits. That's it to begin!

Order Teeth Cleaning Kit

By the third week, your dog will LOVE to come to the area for a treat. This is when we begin to introduce the idea of brushing. Do not begin with the toothbrush. Rather, place a small amount of the toothpaste on your index finger. Rub your finger along the teeth and get him used to the feeling (and taste) of the paste and the sensation of something running across the gums and teeth. Go easy and DON'T FORGET the PRAISE and a little treat at each session.


Put a little drop of the PhytoDerm on a finger and do the same proceedure.

Order Teeth Cleaning Kit

After a week, now it's time for the toothbrush - this will be no surprise for your dog because at this point everything has been fun and there is a treat at the end - lots of praise as well. Use gentle circular motions with the brush, and only brush the outside surfaces - pay attention to the gumline - the dog's tongue maintains the inside.

Finish each session with rubbing (or brushing) a few drops of PhytoDent along the gumline.

Individual items sold here