The kidneys' main function is to eliminate excess fluid and
waste material from the blood. When kidneys lose their filtering
ability, dangerous levels of fluid and waste accumulate in the body — a
condition known as kidney (renal) failure. Presumably, the term “chronic
kidney failure” suggests that the kidneys have quit working and are, therefore,
not making urine. However, by definition, kidney failure is the inability
of the kidneys to remove waste products from the blood. This definition
can occasionally create confusion because some will equate kidney failure
with failure to make urine. Kidney failure is NOT the inability to make
urine. Ironically, most dogs in kidney failure are actually producing large
quantities of urine, but the body’s wastes are not being effectively eliminated.
Kidney failure (renal disease - increased thirst, dehydration, loss of
appetite, urination changes, maybe nausea and pain) is common in elderly
pets - systems do fail as we get older, whoever we are. But the kidneys
are one of the critical factors in eliminating toxins from the body - and
they become less efficient with age, and with toxin loading. (Which
can be a problem at any age, just like with humans.)" more...
Russell Swift, DVM on kidney disease - "Fortunately, since I
have turned to a holistic approach to wellness, I have seen many dogs and
cats outlive their death sentence by years. I believe there are three major
reasons for kidneys to degenerate and eventually fail: 1) poor
quality nutrition, 2) toxicity and 3) chronic
disease. I have discussed in many previous articles the failings of processed
foods. Inadequate and improper protein sources and low moisture content
(of dry foods) are the two major kidney stressors I believe occur in commercial
foods. The kidneys also take a hard hit from many toxins to which the body
is exposed. Many conventional medications, notably nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories
and certain antibiotics, are very damaging
to the kidneys. Ultimately, there is not much known about the long-term
effects of many food additives and preservatives; fluoride
in the drinking water; and all the pesticides and
herbicides used in, on and around our companion animals (and ourselves!).
Item number three on the list above is a term used by homeopaths to describe
a chronic disturbance in the body's function that results in symptoms.
" Modulating the animal's immune system is important.
Dr.Hamilton DVM - "Diets that are low in potassium can
cause renal failure.' In general Commercial diets
are of poor quality protein and poorly formulated and may have led to the
development of renal disease." Learn
about Diet in controlling Chronic Renal Failure
Natural Approach to Kidney (Renal) Failure:
diet, nutritional supplements, herbs and homeopathy
Feline kidney - bladder problem -
FELINE UROLOGICAL SYNDROME (FUS)
Dr.
Jerry Tennant, M.D.
says that marine phytoplankton contains almost
everything one needs to sustain life and to restore health by providing
the raw materials to make new cells that function normally. Marine
Phytoplankton contains all the essential components of life. The percentage
of rejuvenating elements in plankton remarkably exceeds those present in
brewer's yeast and wheat germ. Plankton corrects the deficient or unbalanced
nutrition, common in the customs of our present-day civilization of consuming
incomplete foods, often with added chemical ingredients, which expose us
to physiological problems as various as they are numerous.
- Learn about Marine
Phytoplankton Medical Miracles for People and Pets
Do
you have a question about holistic animal health or need assistance? contact
Shirley or call 206-984-3009 or 323-389-0560
Most Popular Natural Pet Products...
Bladder
Stones
Dr.
Dunn DVM - "In dogs and cats, grain-based diets contribute to alkaline
urine; meat-based diets promote a more acid urine.
If a bacterial infection does occur the waste products of those bacteria
promote an alkaline urine. Plus the bacteria may provide a nice little
solid object upon which dissolved minerals can precipitate (come out of
a solution and become a solid). Any patient who has had repeat urinary
tract infections should always be evaluated for bladder stones. Kidney
stones, fortunately, happen far less often in dogs and cats than bladder
stones; but the possibility of kidney stones should always be considered
in urinary tract disease. Certain types of urinary tract stones can
be prevented by special dietary changes. Genetic programming of kidney
function and structure plays a role in the formation of bladderstones and
certain breeds (Schnauzers, for example) often seem more predisposed to
kidney and bladder trouble than some other breeds. The Dalmatian
has a unique physiology and displays a type of stone formation called Urate
Stones. Modern veterinary medicine can be of great assistance
to dogs and cats that develop bladder stones. Good diets and follow-up
care can help our dog and cat friends survive and thrive... even after
a surgery such as this." Bladder
Stone Surgery In A Dog
Canine
Hip Dysplasia
Symptoms: Less energy and movement; difficulty rising; lameness
in the back legs; reluctance to use stairs (particularly to go up); reluctance
to jump or stand on hind limbs; swaggering gait, bunny-hopping gait; soreness
after lying down; soreness after heavy exercise.
Ester-C: Miracle Cure
for Hip Dysplasia? Dr. Geir Erick Berge, a veterinarian
in Oslo, Norway, performed a study, that was reported in the August-September
1990 issue of The Norwegian Veterinary Journal. Berge selected 100 dogs
with a variety of joint ailments. His testing revealed that 75 percent
of the dogs rapidly improved on Ester-C,
some only slightly, some almost totally. Dr. Berge added that large amounts
of Vitamin C metabolites, substances essential to a body's metabolic processes,
are required in rebuilding diseased joint tissue. Corroborating data
were also 
reported
by Dr. N. Lee Newman, who conducted 18 months of clinical tests using Ester-C
to combat degenerative joint disease in performance horses. She reported
a remarkable 90 percent success rate, ranging from good to excellent. Furthermore,
80 percent of the improved horses remained sound after Ester-C was discontinued.
Newman credited supplemental Ester-C with maintaining the integrity of
collagen and connective tissue and with mobilizing white cells in the immune
system, while deactivating free radicals that damage cell membranes. 
Ester
C vitamin
The Healing Power of Flaxoil (omega
3 oil)
Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D. - "Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most
common autoimmune disorders diseases caused
by the immune system attacking the body's own tissues.
Kenneth Bock, MD - "Because Transfer Factor
can function as immune system modulators, they can help to restore immune
system balance in many types of clinical situations." Kenneth Bock, MD,
best selling author on immune system modulation. Modulating
the animal's immune system is important to help reduce inflammation.
Cushing's
Disease
The adrenal glands of dogs with Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocortism)
produce excessive amounts of cortisol, a hormone with potent anti-inflammatory
and immuno-suppressive effects. The large amount of cortisol in
the body suppresses the immune system and allows the pet with Cushing’s
disease to get bacterial infections. Sometimes it is the adrenal
glands themselves that cause the levels of cortisol to rise if a tumor
is present. Tumors may also be present in pituitary glands. These tumors
may be benign or malignant. Dogs that have been previously treated for
allergic conditions or immune disorders can also contract Cushing’s disease
from prolonged use of corticosteroid drugs. This is called iatrogenic
disease. If this is the case in the dog, the veterinarian will reduce the
current steroid treatment in to lower cortisone levels.
One of the most common, and often the only visible symptom of Cushing's
Disease is a drastic increase in thirst, which causes excessive water intake.
Please remember though, this is ONE symptom, and it is not even a symptom
of Cushing's exclusively! This is also a symptom of Addison's disease,
which is the direct opposite of Cushing's Disease. Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
which involves appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness.
How
To Modulate and Support Your Animal's Immune System
Natural
treatments for animal cancer
Do
you have a question about holistic animal health or need assistance? contact
Shirley or call 206-984-3009 or 323-389-0560
Most Popular Natural Pet Products...
Gum disease in our pets
A study demonstrated that the daily addition of the chew to the dry
diet was effective in reducing plaque (at one week and three weeks) and
calculus (at three weeks) accumulation on the tooth surfaces. The daily
addition of the chew also reduced the severity of gingivitis as compared
to feeding the dry diet only. The reduction of the severity of gingivitis
is promising. though whether such a reduction will prevent the development
of periodontitis or not remains to be shown. Further work is required to
establish the long term periodontal health benefits offering dietary regimens
designed to improve dental hygiene. Dental
Hygiene: Maintaining Periodontal Health in Dogs
Dr. Pitcairn DVM - "In the natural state, carnivores do not develop
calculus (tartar). Domesticated animals, in contrast, are not eating their
natural diet and the softer food accumulates on the outside of the teeth
in an area where it cannot easily be cleaned off. It is familiar to us
that we can put our tongue in between our teeth and the inside of the cheeks
to clean out accumulated food. Dogs and cats cannot do that as their teeth
are too sharp. In the natural state, carnivores keep the outside teeth
clean by gnawing on bones, a process you can still see with both dogs and
cats accustomed to eating bones. If you observe the position they take,
you will see that they use their side teeth in a sliding motion along the
bone and this scrapes off any residue left from eating. The obvious solution
to the problem of tartar accumulation in domestic animals is to give them
bones to chew on. In my experience this is the most effective method and,
for many animals, will clean the teeth to perfection." Dr.
Pitcairn DVM
Dr Tom Lonsdale - "Now we treat the periodontal disease
and provide the pets with a natural diet. The removal of the poisons allows
the immune system to recover and owners frequently report that their old
pet is like a puppy/kitten again. Modern processed diets are known to be
responsible for periodontal or gum disease which affects more than 85%
of domestic cats and dogs. Foul breath odour is an early sign suggesting
that more severe heart, liver and kidney disease may follow. An article
published in the December 1995 issue of the British Journal of Small Animal
Practice confirms that processed pet foods produce periodontal disease
which often leads to an AIDS-like condition in affected animals. (JSAP
1995 36, 542-546) Dr Tom Lonsdale of Riverstone NSW the author of
the paper admits that he, along with almost everyone else, used to recommend
processed pet foods."Previously we thought animals were suffering the
effects of old age when in fact they were wasting away with periodontal
disease and diet-induced AIDS." Many
pets not old but stricken with diet-induced AIDS
I let my dog Shasta chew on a RAW bone everyday
to promote a good jaw work-out. It massages her gums/glands, cleans her
teeth, reduce plaque, prevent gingivitis and provide much needed nutrition
and minerals. Shirley
"The most significant conclusion of this study is that conventional
dog biscuits are of NO EFFECT as a teeth cleaning aid for dogs. Sodium
hexametaphosphate is commonly used as part of household detergents! The
simplest and most cost effective way of keeping a dog's teeth and gums
healthy is a natural diet which includes raw meaty bones. " Study
Conclusion of clinical trial about Heinz
Tartar Check Dog Biscuits
Lyme
disease - Fact from Fiction
(One aim of my website is
to present views which do not necessarily conform to the views of the establishment.
Shirley
)
Not all ticks carry a disease
causing organism, and just because you had a tick bite does not mean you
will get Lyme disease. Even if a tick is a carrier, its bite may not always
cause the development of disease, but proper caution and care always is
crucial in prevention.
Dr. Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S. "...Lyme disease has often
been nicknamed the great imitator. This is because many of the symptoms
can mimic symptoms of many other diseases because it can effect so many
different organ systems. I remember one gordon setter puppy I saw and the
first symptom of Lyme disease that showed up was lack of appetite and an
arrythmia in the heart that I picked up on my exam. It only got stiff and 
lame
three days later. Fortunately I knew the heart problem wasn't there a few
weeks prior on a normal exam and was suspicious of Lyme and we treated
it successfully and the heart problem resolved. When considering Lyme disease
as a possibility, one must also think about other tick-transmitted diseases
such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or canine erlichiosis. Arthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, other joint diseases as well as kidney failure or
heart problems from other causes need to be considered as well."
"What is the best treatment? As I mentioned previously, this is one
place where I feel strongly that immediate antibiotic therapy is imperative.
It appears that doxycycline and amoxicillin seem to be the best antibiotics
against Lyme disease. I suggest staying on antibiotics for a minimum of
a month, sometimes even longer. I have seen dogs that were only on antibiotics
for two weeks and then it comes back with a vengeance and does not respond
as well afterwards. A holistic approach would also include using probiotics
such as acidophilus to keep the healthy bacteria alive in your pets gastrointestinal
tract. In addition, it has been found that the organism can actually further
suppress the immune system. So I usually recommend nutritional
and herbal support to boost the immune system as well. This would include
Echinacea
and garlic as I have mentioned in previous columns of the Healing Arts.
Sometimes I see chronic Lyme disease in a dog or cat and I will also use
acupuncture to boost the immune system and relieve the pain and inflammation.
Homeopathic
remedies have also appeared to be helpful. The most successful of these
include homeopathic Ledum and a Lyme nosode. Lyme nosode is a homeopathic
remedy that is made from the killed organism, diluted, successed and potentized
to the point that nothing of the original organism remains. For appropriate
dosages of these remedies, you should contact a homeopathic
veterinarian."
Excerpt taken
from Lyme Disease:
Fact from Fiction by Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S
Ticks may carry various infectious organisms that can transmit diseases
to cats and dogs. The following listed symptoms of Lyme disease are similar
to the "Vaccinosis" symptoms of vaccines side effects.
and/or the side effects of some allopathic pet medications.
-
babesiosis: lethargy,
appetite loss, weakness, pale gums
-
ehrlichiosis: high fever,
muscle aches
-
Lyme disease: lameness,
swollen joints, fever, poor appetite, fatigue, and vomiting (some infected
animals show no symptoms)
-
tick paralysis in dogs:
gradual paralysis, seen first as an unsteady gait from uncoordinated back
legs (some infected dogs don't develop paralysis)." Dixie Farley- FDA Consumer
magazine (July-August 1996)
Treatment
of acute Lyme Disease or other tick borne diseases in pets with Natural
remedies
Testimonials
of
amazing animal health improvements and cures of cancer and other chronic
disease with natural, alternative health care and optimum nutrition. This
is a collection of emails I received over the years and for which I received
the permission to publish on my site. With each testimonial you will find
an email address to facilitate correspondance, feedback and support.
The
Allergy Cover-Up The natural way to treat allergies
Alfred
Plechner, DVM - "The most common and most visible symptoms of nutritionally
caused deficiencies are allergies of one kind
or another. Because many commercial foods are woefully deficient
in key nutrients, the long term effect of feeding such foods makes the
dog hypersensitive to its environment ....It's a dinosaur effect. Animals
are being programmed for disaster, for extinction. Many of them are biochemical
cripples with defective adrenal glands unable to manufacture adequate cortisol,
a hormone vital for health and resistance to disease." click
here fo more information on managing allergies, flea bites and hotspots
naturally
When
a veterinarian has determined the cause or factors contributing to the
allergy, he or she will make some recommendations. If the gut needs attention,
most will suggest changing your companion's diet to one that is home prepared
or the equivalent. Common food allergens such as wheat, beef, corn, soy,
and sometimes rice, chicken, plastic feeding bowls and utensils, chemical
cleaners, detergents and sometimes even vitamin and essential fatty acid
supplements must be eliminated. Dr. Tom Boekbinder of the Carmel Holistic
Clinic in Carmel, California, recommends serving raw
meat and veggies and eliminating grains.
"Turkey and fish are the least inflammatory," says Dr. Boekbinder, "but
you must cook west coast fish. For severe hotspots on dogs, I recommend
starting with a seven to ten-day fast with just water.
The skin clears up quickly on a fast but few people are willing to fast
their dog. It's too hard for them to see their animal go hungry." You should
keep in mind that, in a study, dogs were fasted for 62 days, at which time
they could still jump onto the examination table and, although thin, showed
no signs of illness. Food was gradually reintroduced and all the dogs regained
their weight and strength. Fasting is never recommended for cats because
of the risk of hepatic lipidosis, a serious and often fatal condition.
Dr. Beltram says that most commercial foods "are processed at high temperature
and pressure, which creates an interaction between the carbohydrates and
the protein in the food and produces 'maillard' proteins. These new chemicals
are highly allergenic. If the bowel is leaky, the allergens will go through
the filter." When changing your companion's food to home prepared,
make sure you do your research so you feed a well
balanced diet.
Routine Vaccination Can Trigger Allergies
Dr. Blanco, D.V.M - "You take healthy animals and often very quickly
after
you vaccinate, you can see simple things like
itching of the skin or excessive
licking of the paws, sometimes even with no eruptions. We see a lot
of epilepsy, often after a rabies vaccination. Or dogs or cats can
become aggressive for several days. Frequently, you'll see urinary
tract infections in cats, often within three months after their [annual]
vaccination. If you step back, open your mind and heart, you'll start to
see patterns of illness post-vaccination." more about
vaccinosis
Sometimes, infections are secondary to the underlying cause of the allergies.
Tommy, a 9 1/2-year-old golden retriever, was suffering terribly from allergies.
He had itchy skin and ears, scabs, open sores, hair loss and impacted anal
glands. While his problems used to be seasonal, he now scratched throughout
the year. He was on medication for hypothyroidism (which is often an underlying
cause of various skin problems) and Panalog for his ears. I changed his
diet to raw meat and vegetables with no grains
and added a multi-vitamin supplement as well as homeopathic
remedies for support and detoxification and a natural enzyme based
ear drop (Zymox) for the secondary infection in his ears. After two to
three weeks, his condition was not improved and his guardians were worried.At
four weeks, I received a phone call to let me know Tommy's turnaround was
absolute; he stopped scratching and his skin started healing.
Our
pets are prone to suffer from minerals and trace mineral deficiency. For
optimum health, I supplement Shasta's
diet (and my diet too) with the following: fulvic
minerals or marine phytoplankton (consist
of an immense arsenal and array of naturally occuring powerful phytochemicals,
biochemicals, supercharged antioxidants, free-radical scavengers, super
oxide dismutases, nutrients, enzymes, hormones, amino acids, antibiotics,
antivirals, and antifungals), bee pollen (rich in
naturally occuring vitamins), kelp (marine plants),
the
right kind of salt (not common table salt); magnesium
oil,(a miracle mineral in its healing effect on a wide range of diseases
as well as in its ability to rejuvenate the aging body). and clay
(to
promote healing and to detoxify) and with flaxoil
(also knows as linseed oil - rich source of omega3 fatty acids). Shasta
does not drink
tap water. I give her only filtered
water which is free from toxic chlorine and fluoride. I support my
immune system and that of my animals with Transfer Factor
and by raising our Glutathione
level. I never cook or warm up food in a microwave
oven. Please read about the Hidden Hazards of
Microwave Cooking
I have witnessed the amazing
healing power of homeopathy,
herbal
extracts, Transfer
Factor, Glutathione/Immunocal,
and marine
phytoplankton in traumatic emergency situations and in acute and chronic
disease with my own health, that of my family and my dogs: Nadja,
Shasta
and Kuuma. Some of the healings were nothing short
of miraculous, including my
own healing. When Nadja ate rat poison and was vomiting large amount
of green fluid, the vet said she didn't have a chance to survive. I saved
her life with the homeopathic remedy Arsenicum 10 M. If I need guidance,
I will get a phone consultation with a
holistic veterinarian. I had been chronically sick for years, addicted
to prescription and over the counter drugs. Unfortunately, instead of generating
a cure, the medications (steroids, antibiotics, antihistamine, etc.) merely
temporarily suppressed my symptoms, weakened my immune system, and in the
long run made me sicker. I completely turned my health around with the
incredible healing power of homeopathy, raw food
diet, herbs, and nutritional products such
as flaxoil,
chia
seeds or oil, clay,
seaweed
or plankton,
saccharides/glyconutrients,
and
Transfer
Factor. I'm not a doctor or a nurse, but when a member
of
my family get sick or injured (including my animals) I immediately use
homeopathic medicine, herbs and nutritional supplements with excellent
results. Shirley
Do
you have a question about holistic animal health or need assistance?
or use this contact
form or call 206-984-3009 or 323-389-0560
Most Popular Natural Pet Products...
Limit exposure to toxins and allergens
For obvious reasons, it"s best to avoid further toxins as much as possible.
Avoid pharmaceutical drugs such as flea and heart worm prevention unless
deemed necessary, as well as antibiotics,
antihistamines,
steroids, etc. Vaccines
are toxic and you should have a titer test done to determine if your
animal is still protected from previous immunizations. According to Dr.
Beltram, "the complex chemicals (aluminum, mercury salts) and antigens
in vaccines trigger an erratic reaction of the immune system. Vaccines
given when the animal has a high titer are even more damaging because a
state of hyper-reactivity already exists. If the animal is revaccinated,
the immune system is pushed one more time and may start reacting with other
substances such as food. So often the stage was set for allergies after
the second or third booster vaccination." If your animal experiences allergic
symptoms after vaccination, try using homeopathic thuja (two pellets of
30CH once a week for three weeks).
Also try to avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides (wipe your animal
down after a walk), contact allergens such as poison ivy, fleas, toxins
in meat (use chemical-free or organic meat when possible) and veggies and
fruits (use organic or peel these). Use spring, distilled or reverse osmosis
water. Check the pollen count and keep your animal inside during peak times.
You can also consider putting a pollen filter on your furnace and using
the air conditioner on high pollen days.
Supporting the immune system Because
70% of the immune system is in the gut (Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue),
healing the gut and providing immune
modulators such as Moducare (plant sterolins and sterols) or Ag Immune
by Body Wise. These substances will down regulate a hyperactive immune
system in an allergic patient and/or up regulate a lowered immunity in
cases of repeated infections.
Hotspot areas should be shaved or scissored
to clear away hair and then gently cleansed with a mild soap and water
solution. For painful spots, Dr. Harcourt recommends bee propolis, which
she says numbs the skin. As well, she suggests providing pleasurable distractions
such as walks, playtime, massage and raw bone chewing to get through difficult
hotspots. As much as possible try not to use suppressive
treatments such as hydrocortisone, which can do long-term damage.
Making better health your goal
Although
different holistic vets use different approaches with allergic animals,
their goal is the same and their results similar. Using
natural means, mildly allergic animals will usually recover quickly
and completely. Severely allergic animals may take six to twelve months
or more to get to a complete cure. A few may improve tremendously and get
back to only seasonal allergies as opposed to year-round suffering. Whatever
the case, combining time and patience with your holistic veterinarian's
recommendations will help your companion's health improve and won't cause
any further damage in the future.
Sidebar: Naturopathic principles for animals suffering
from allergies
-
Do no harm. The animal's condition must not be made worse in the long run
to alleviate symptoms. Vaccines and flea
and heart worm prevention can add to the body's toxic load, which can
lead to further immune system compromise.
-
Identify and eliminate the cause/s and obstacles to cure.
First, rule out skin parasites such as mites, fleas, ringworm (a fungal
infection), Leishmaniasis (for dogs from warmer climates) and systemic
diseases such hypothyroidism, Lupus, Vasculitis, Phemphigus, etc. Identify
and, if possible, avoid allergens to give rapid relief. Look at the animal's
environment when considering allergens (pollens, plastics, nylon, wool,
etc.), toxins (pesticides, chemicals, etc.), irritants and more.
-
Use the curative power of nature. By eliminating causes and supporting
organ and immune function with good diet, detoxification
and supplements, the body will heal itself.
"Allergies represent more than a local inflammation of the skin. They reflect
a constitutional state. From a holistic standpoint, the approach to treatment
recognizes the deeper constitutional state and restores order and balance
to the whole animal." Cynthia Harcourt, DVM, Queensville,
ON
This article is reprinted
by permission of Animal
Wellness Magazine
Dr. Nancy Scanlan, DVM
-
"When pet foods are heat processed, as most are, enzyme concentration is
significantly reduced. For this reason, adding digestive
enzymes to your pet's food will enhance absorption of nutrients. A
high quality, broad spectrum supplement provides the required enzyme activity
to help your pet achieve superior digestive health. With daily use, you
should see marked improvement in the skin, coat and energy of your pet,
and less gas formation (or flatulence) and improved consistency in the
stool."
Arthur Young DVM, a Certified Homeopathic Veterinarian, uses glyconutrients/saccharides
in his practice on all animals from birds to horses. He always advises
his clients to add glyconutrients to their pets diet. Decades of consuming
nutritionally questionable commercial pet food products, the proven harmful
effects of over vaccination, combined with the unfortunate dependency on
steroids and antibiotics have, according to many reliable sources greatly
contributed to a national decline in animal health. The innate ability
of the body to heal itself has been seriously compromised in many animals,
particularly dogs, cats, and horses. Glyconutrients/saccharides are compatible
with any type of treatment prescribed by both conventional and alternative
practitioners. These essential carbohydrates strengthen the body’s inner
environment which, in turn, enhances the energy that stimulates the immune
system, as well as a process called “cell communication”. This communication
network results in all of the organs working with one another in an orderly
sequence of body reactions. Without these activities, good health is impossible
to attain. Although the formulation is produced for human consumption,
holistic veterinarians have also recognized the importance of glyconutrients
in supporting the handling of health challenges in animals. Credit goes
to Günter Blobel, M.D., Ph.D. (Rockefeller University), winner of
the 1999 Nobel Prize for Medicine "for the discovery that (glyco) proteins
have intrinsic signals that govern their transport and localization in
the cell."
More
about nature's enzyme therapy
Do
you have a question about holistic animal health or need assistance? contact
Shirley or call 206-984-3009 or 323-389-0560
Most Popular Natural Pet Products...
Ear
Infection - Inflammation - Irritation - Odor - Wax buildup and discharge
Will Falconer, DVM - "Most of the chronic diseases we commonly
see in animals (and humans) have an immune basis, e.g. diabetes,
allergies,
asthma,
thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel diseases,
repeated
ear infections,
cancer, etc. While they
can be cured through the careful use of homeopathy,
the road to cure can be a long one -- often years if the animal has had
years of disease.
Vaccines damage is
often the underlying cause of chronic ear infection or inflammation.
"Over the past 40 years and 17 generations of dogs and, cats we are
seeing tremendous increases in chronic ill health in our pets that was
rare back in the early 1960's. Most of these illnesses revolve around breakdown
in our pets' immune systems, and include chronic skin/ear
allergies, digestive upset, thyroid/adrenal/pancreatic disorders, seizures,
gum/ teeth problems, degenerative arthritis, kidney/liver failure, and
cancer across all ages and breeds. We are also seeing a record number of
behavioral and emotional disorders including alarming and unexplained fears/aggression.,
as well as difficulty focusing/training and paying attention. The analogy
of these compared with escalating immune/behavioral diseases in children
is quite 
disturbing.
The two biggest factors in our pets' population health decline over these
generations has been the severe overuse of multiple
vaccines and nutrient poor
and toxin filled commercial pet foods. We have also failed to address
the underlying cause of disease by only suppressing symptoms with
antibiotics,
cortisone
and related drugs, so the disease progresses and goes deeper. Homeopathy
offers a viable alternative in truly curing pets and making their bodies
healthier."
Michael Dym D.V.M.
Dennis W. Thomas, DVM - "As a pet owner, it is
important to know that persistent or recurring ear infections in a dog
commonly are manifestations of other concurring disease processes. Allergies
and hypothyroidism are good examples. Systemic allergies often cause dermatitis
and itching in the ear canal, which predispose self-trauma and subsequent
ear infection. Hypothyroidism may manifest itself as increased thickness
of the skin and continual release of exudate in the ear canal, which favors
an environment for otitis externa.
It is not wise
to use cotton tip applicators in the ear canal. This can be quite painful
to the dog. Also, I don't recommend using alcohol in a dog's ear.
Alcohol
will dry the ear, but if there is inflammation or small scratches in the
canal, the alcohol will burn and cause tremendous pain and further
inflammation. If you must use a product from the shelf at home,
use
white vinegar diluted 50:50 with water. "
At
the recent American Veterinary Medical Association meeting in Philadelphia,
Craig Griffin of Animal Dermatology Clinic and Animal Allergy Specialists
in San Diego, said normal dogs do not need to have their ears cleaned.
"There is something wrong with a dog if it needs to have its ears cleaned
all the time. That "something wrong" is often allergies.
Griffin said 80 percent of food-allergic or atopic dogs (dogs who have
skin problems because of environmental allergens) will have a history of
ear problems and/or have to have their ears cleaned to prevent ear disease.
Hypothyroidism will also cause chronic ear problems, as will an ear mite
infestation." Knight
Ridder
For chronic ear infection - inflammation or irritation in pets, it is
important to have a consultation with a professional
homeopathic veterinarian. Homeopathy is
a very powerful healing modality which has saved my dog and done miracles
for my own health. It is an art and a science at the hands of experienced
homeopath. Click here for a listing of homeopathy/holistic
veterinarians - most offer PHONE consultations. The
Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care discusses the use of the homeopathic
remedy, Silica for ear infection.
Wide ranging in its scope, The
Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care offers caretakers of dogs, cats, bunnies
and birds an excellent look at behavior, exercise, nutrition and various
alternative/holistic therapies. Clear, concise and informative, this book
is full of practical information and recipes. Conversations with leading
veterinary healers provide insight into the philosophies & practices
of some of this country's most innovative healers. An A-Z of Ailments (dogs,
cats, birds & rabbits) gives readers a valuable quick look at the problem
and possible holistic treatments. Comprehensive index and a detailed appendix
with excellent sources for further information and reading. The Encylopedia
of Natural Pet Care is a wonderful book for anyone interested in holistic
pet care.
Natural
Pet Ear Cleaner Solution Cleans ears and eliminates odor, dissolves
ear wax and removes dirt and debris by bringing it to the surface.
Ear Care Formula dries the ear but don't worry, there's no alcohol. It
also soothes the ear during application and long after. Dirt and wax accumulation
in the outer ear and ear canal can lead to infections and discomfort for
your pet. If your pets are rubbing or scratching their ears regularly then
get close to them and have a look.
Note
from Shirley: When my dog Kuuma was about 2 year old he injured his
left ear while scratching it and it was bleeding from that 
small
wound. The ear became inflammed, bright red, hot, itchy and Kuuma was miserable,
shaking his head constantly. Kuuma never't let me touch the inside of his
ears but I managed by surprise to quickly pour into his ear
about 20 drops of a mixture of 50% organic white vinegar and 50%
colloidal
silver water. Then I gently massaged the ear to calm him down. I also
gave him Transfer Factor Plus to boost his immune system
by over 430%. Stem cell enhancer
for pets can also be very useful. I used homeopathic
remedies to soothe the inflammation (acontine 3c, belladona 1M,
arnica 30c, and rhus tox 30c, a few pellets of each, repeatedly every 5
minutes for up to 3 or 4 doses.) and whithin a 20 minutes, the pain
and inflammation had gone down 99%, the bleeding stopped and the color
was back to normal, he stopped shaking his head was able to rest comfortably.
Usually I don't bother his ears. He keeps his ears clean by shaking his
head which expulses wax out effectively. When I see a problem starting
to develop with his ears, I gently apply the Recovazon
Topical Gel (contains aloe very and natural healing herbs) into the
ears to soothe the emerging inflammation and irritation before it becomes
too severe. When Kuuma was about 7 years old, he developped a chronic irritation
in his LEFT ear. It wasn't infected, but it became sticky, dirty, itchy
and smelly. The homeopathic remedy "Thuja" in 200 C potency (just a
single pellet) cleared up the problem rapidly. A year later I've had to
use other homeopathic remedies such as Silica 1M and Mezerium 30C to help
clear his ears. It is recommended that you seek the advice of a professional
homeopathic veterinarian to use homeopathy. I also give Kuuma marine
phytoplankton to nourish his body on a celular level. (Is
your pet deficient in a key nutrient? )
Natural Treatment
for Ear Mites
by William Pollak D.V.M.
Ear mites are common in cats and dogs. Cats usually start them and they're
the last to be treated. Direct physical contact is an important part of
transmission from one animal to another. A cat with ear mites will scratch
its ears frequently and a deposit that looks like dried coffee grounds,
black, gray or even white will form down in the ear canals. A dog will
scratch and shake its head and its ear canal may look quite red and inflamed.
Bacterial and fungal infections secondary to ear mites is another layer
of imbalance. Reducing redness and inflammation from secondary infection
is the first order of business, as medications and remedies that help kill
ear mites can sometimes act as an irritant to a sensitized ear canal.
Homemade, natural, Ear mite treatment suggestion:
Step 1:
Make a mixture of 1/2 ounce of almond or olive oil and 400 IU vitamin
E in a dropper bottle. Warm to body temperature and put about 1/2 dropper
full in the ear, massaging the ear canal well for a minute or so. Let your
pet shake its head and then gently clean out the opening with cotton swabs.
Q-tip type applicators may compact material already in the ear canal. Apply
the oil every other day for six days. Then let the ears rest for 3 days.
(The oil mixture will smother many of the mites and start a healing process.)
Step 2:
Using a tincture of the herb Yellow Dock, dilute it with water (9 drops
to 1 tablespoon of water). Treat the ears with this mixture, as described
above, once every 3 days for 6 weeks. Ear mite eggs are quite resistant
to just about anything after they have already hardened, that is why a
six-week period of treatment is recommended. The eggs will continue to
hatch out in cycles and if medicine is present for six continuous weeks
(medicine administered will last for four days) there will be no more eggs
present.
You may need to thoroughly shampoo the head and ears (and the tip of
the tail), because the mites can leave the ears; they do like to go for
night trips to check out the terrain and might crawl back in after treatment.
The tip of the tail may have a few mites from when it is curled near the
head. Make a tea infusion of yellow dock and use it as a final rinse.
Generally a healthy animal will have fewer problems with ear mites,
so improving the diet will help in prevention and recovery. Feeding a natural
raw meat diet or a super-concentrated, preservative free commercial diet
like PHD will improve overall health and reduce the likelihood of frequent
parasitic infections. Supplementing with garlic and brewer's yeast is especially
helpful.
Has your dog suffered from ear infection after ear infection after ear
infection? Are you sick of giving your dog antibiotics and other
expensive toxic drugs while your precious dog still has chronic ear infections?
Learn
why chronic ear infections occur as a result of overuse of antibiotics.
Vinegar
and Water Ear Wash
Dennis W. Thomas, DVM
- "As a pet owner, it is important to know that persistent or recurring
ear infections in a dog commonly are manifestations of other concurring
disease processes. Allergies and hypothyroidism are good examples. Systemic
allergies often cause dermatitis and itching in the ear canal, which predispose
self-trauma and subsequent ear infection. Hypothyroidism may manifest itself
as increased thickness of the skin and continual release of exudate in
the ear canal, which favors an environment for otitis externa. It
is not wise to use cotton tip applicators in the ear canal. This can be
quite painful to the dog. Also, I don't recommend using alcohol in a dog's
ear. Alcohol will dry the ear, but if there is inflammation
or small scratches in the canal, the alcohol will burn and cause tremendous
pain and further inflammation. If you must use a product from the shelf
at home, use white vinegar diluted 50:50 with water. " more
on dog's ear care
Natural
Pet Ear Cleaner Solution Cleans ears and eliminates odor, dissolves
ear wax and removes dirt and debris by bringing it to the surface.
Ear Care Formula dries the ear but don't worry, there's no alcohol. It
also soothes the ear during application and long after. Dirt and wax accumulation
in the outer ear and ear canal can lead to infections and discomfort for
your pet. If your pets are rubbing or scratching their ears regularly then
get close to them and have a look.
You can learn more about Infectious Disease: Effective
Alternatives to Antibiotics
How To
Boost Your Animal's Immune System
Do
you have a question about holistic animal health or need assistance? contact
Shirley or call 206-984-3009 or 323-389-0560
Most Popular Natural Pet Products...
Holistic Veterinary Medicine
Dr.
Jones DVM - "The Truth Behind The Pet Food Recall"
WHAT
VETS DON'T TELL YOU ABOUT VACCINES Read the comments of veterinarians
who believe that vaccines are damaging our pets. This information will
make you cry and aware of the scam that is the mainstay of the veterinary
field. Learn the truth about the terrible suffering of pets and their
owners and what can be done to protect your animals from the drug companies
and ignorant vets. 'Shock to the System'
covers the latest information on the vaccine issue, and puts the other
pieces of the puzzle into the picture. Diet, environmental toxins, pharmaceuticals
and stress all play a part in the health of companion animals.
Advanced
Daily Supplement with Phytonutrient Power for 
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Nutrition and Natural Health for Animals:
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for dogs,
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Natural
Health for Children:
