Is your home poisoning your pets?

Did you know many household cleaners contain a chemical called formaldehyde (also known as embalming solution), which could cause severe irritation to our pet's eyes, throat and skin? Or how about rug and carpet shampoos, they contain a chemical called perchloroethylene, which can cause dizziness, insomnia, nausea, tremors and loss of appetite? Some floor polishes contain chemicals that can cause cancer as well as damage to the heart, kidneys, liver and central nervous system. As a matter of fact, most household products do not even warn you of the chemical dangers they could cause.

So how toxic is your house? According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) 50% of all illness can be traced to indoor pollution, which can be directly related to the use of household cleaners. Many products on the shelves today claim to be safe, yet have warning labels. If a product is safe why do they need to warn you of danger? Most rooms in most homes contain these products which could cause any of the following; cancer, birth defects, or changes in human genetic structures. If it is affecting our health in this way imagine what it's doing to our pets.

Consider the effect of the following on your pet:

Bug spraying
Ant traps
Pest/rodent exterminating
Toilet bowl cleaners your pet can drink
Matches around the house (sulfur)
Lawn fertilizer/grass chemicals
Room deodorizers/sprays
Chlorinated pools your animal can drink from

Do you let your dog eat treats off the floor? Do you watch your cat lick itself clean after playing on the carpet? Do you enjoy watching your pet lounged out taking a snooze on the floor? Do you use household cleaners? If you answered yes, you must know the following information. Animals have faster metabolisms and smaller lungs than we do. Their bodies have to work harder to try and eliminate these toxins. Not only are they processing these chemicals at a faster rate, they are also breathing them in more rapidly.

Animals are obviously closer to the ground, which puts them in direct contact with these harmful substances. This makes them more vulnerable to toxic poisoning, which could result in death. Signs and symptoms of toxic poisoning can range from excessive drooling, vomiting and shallow breathing to muscle twitching, convulsions and seizures.

Develop a more acute awareness about the chemicals to which your pet(s) are exposed. Don't just trust grocery store labels and compelling commercial ads seen on television. Take the lead right now to ensure the cleaning products you purchase are safe for you, your pet and the environment. Shop for them at your local health food store. The cost is the same as chemical cleaners and you may even save thousands of dollars in vet bills!

If you suspect a toxic substance has poisoned your animal, induce vomiting immediately with some warm salt water or a little hydrogen peroxide (dosage varies based on size of animal). Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 4ANIHELP (426-4435). They will guide you through the necessary procedures you must take to save your pets life.

Copyright © 2000, PetConsumerReport.com


Pet Safe Cleaning Products.
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Echinacea

Echinacea powder: treatment for canine chronic and seasonal
upper respiratory tract infections.

Authors: Reichling J, Fitzi J, Fürst-Jucker J, Bucher S, Saller R.; Institut für Pharmazie und Molekulare Biotechnologie, Ruprecht-Karls-University, Heidelberg, Germany.

An open multi-centered veterinary clinical trial, comparing conditions before and after treatment with a herbal preparation, containing the powdered root of Echinacea purpurea, was conducted by 6 practicing veterinarians in Switzerland. The plant-based immune stimulant was administered to 41 dogs with manifestations of chronic and seasonal upper respiratory tract infections, including pharyngitis/tonsillitis, bronchitis and kennel cough. Each animal was at an individual stage of the disease, with various symptoms and different severity scores, at start of treatment. There was no control group. Echinacea powder (1:3) was administered with the food at a dose of 1.0 g/10 kg body weight once daily for 8 weeks. Overall efficacy showed significant improvement for 92% of 39 dogs after 4 weeks of treatment and this was confirmed after 8 weeks.

Significant reductions of severity and resolution of typical clinical symptoms, of clear nasal secretions, enlargement of lymph nodes, dry cough, dyspnea and dry lung sounds, were evident after 4 weeks. Only two adverse effects, not suspected to be attributable to the study drug, were recorded. Because quality and stability of the Echinacea powder were defined, using an analytical standard and purity tests, these data suggest, that the Echinacea preparation can be recommended as a well tolerated alternative treatment of canine upper respiratory tract infections. Read the entire article.


Allen Schoen, DVM states: “Anecdotal reports from holistic clients and veterinarians suggest that it may be helpful in certain chronic infections. Anecdotes suggest that it has been beneficial in the treatment of chronic upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs. Other reports suggest that it may help boost the immune system in chronic skin infections in dogs.”

Jennifer Prince, DVM states: “The active ingredient in echinacea has not yet been identified. It is suspected to work by inhibiting viral and bacterial breakdown of the body's cell walls, which is a necessary step before the bacteria and viruses can replicate in the body. It may also slow the growth of some types of tumors.”


More about Echinacea
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Colloidal Silver

Colloidal Silver Has Mainstream Medicine Singing the Blues
by Tony Isaacs

(NaturalNews) The recent widespread mainstream media coverage of the "blue man" Paul Karason and his rare skin condition known as Argyria is the latest in a series of largely misleading and sensationalized scare stories about the dangers of colloidal silver turning a person's skin blue.

Although this latest story did not appear to originate from mainstream medicine or the FDA, there is little doubt that they have welcomed it with open arms and have been quick to trot out "medical experts" and past FDA warnings to help "sing the blues" about colloidal silver. The truth is that mainstream medicine has a very good reason to cry long and loud about colloidal silver, because it does represent a very real danger – a danger to the huge profits of the pharmaceutical industry's patented antibiotics.

The truth is that silver has been used effectively by mankind to fight germs and ailments for thousands of years, and the instances of modern use of colloidal silver turning people's skin blue are so rare as to be almost non-existent - and unlike thousands of prescribed and approved over-the-counter mainstream medications including the common aspirin, silver has never killed anyone. As a matter of fact, almost all of the relative handful of reported instances have involved one or more of the following: older silver products that contained as much as 10% or more silver (compared to mere parts per million in modern colloidal silver), silver nitrate, home made colloidal silver that was contaminated with salt, and silver that has been consumed continuously in very large quantities over a very long period of time.

What is also true about colloidal silver is that it is far safer, more effective and less expensive than the marginally effective and side effect laden mainstream antibiotics - and has mainstream and university studies proving it dating back to the early 1900's. The best and strongest of the FDA approved antibiotics are effective for a handful of bacteria at best, whereas colloidal silver is supremely effective against just about every kind of single celled pathogen, including bacteria, fungal growths and viruses (which antibiotics are often wrongly prescribed for, despite the fact that antibiotics have no effect on viruses). Read the entire article.

The Evolution of a House Cat

Cats are unique in so many ways. All cats, big and small, have common characteristics. Most cats purr, they don’t particularly like water and they love to run after their prey. All cats, big and small, are meat eaters. They are classified as obligate or true carnivores, which means their diet must consist of almost all meat to satisfy their specific and unique nutritional requirements. Their ancestors were desert animals, so they got most of their moisture or water from their prey. As a result, most modern cats lack the desire to drink water, which can lead to urinary issues. Read the entire article.

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FLUTD

What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?
Source: Cornell Feline Health Center

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) describes a collection of conditions that can affect the bladder and urethra of cats. This syndrome can have many possible causes, but cats generally exhibit similar, recognizable signs. Cats with FLUTD usually show signs of difficulty and pain when urinating, increased frequency of urination, and blood in the urine. Affected cats tend to lick their genital area excessively, and sometimes they will urinate outside the litter box, often preferring cool, smooth surfaces like a tile floor or a bathtub.

While the condition can be seen in cats of any age, it is most frequently seen in middle-aged, over-weight cats that get little exercise, use an indoor litter box, have restricted access outside, and eat a dry diet. Environmental factors, such as interactions with owners, multi-cat households, and changes in routine may also increase the risk that a cat will develop FLUTD.

Steps to Reduce Occurences and Signs of Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Feed small meals on a frequent basis.

For cats with a history of struvite formation, owners should feed diets that promote the formation of urine that is acidic. Avoid supplementing such diets with additional urinary acidifiers, because over-acidification can cause metabolic acidosis, impaired kidney function, and mineral imbalance.

Provide clean, fresh water at all times.
Provide an adequate number of litter boxes (usually one more than the number of cats in the household).
Keep litter boxes in quiet, safe areas of the house.
Keep litter boxes clean.
Minimize major changes in routine.

Signs of Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Straining to urinate.
Frequent and/or prolonged attempts to urinate.
Crying out while urinating.
Excessive licking of the genital area.
Urinating outside the litter box.
Blood in the urine.

***Cats with a urethral obstruction will show the above signs but will pass little or no urine and will become increasingly distressed. A urethral obstruction is an absolute emergency, requiring immediate veterinary treatment.***

Read the entire article.

Instinctive Choice Cat Food.

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Science Diet Scam

The Science Diet Scam
By Sabine Contreras, BetterDogCare.com, © Sabine Contreras 2004-2008

Let's dive in with a short summary:
Science Diet is a pet food that is often recommended by veterinarians, and is heavily advertised, so many people buy it, thinking they are giving their pets the best product on the market. The fact that it is pretty popular doesn't make it a quality product though.

Why is Science Diet recommended by veterinarians?
The answer is simple and Tara Parker-Pope of the Wall Street Journal probably said it best in her article "Why Vets Recommend 'Designer' Chow" (reprinted here):

[...] Borrowing a page from the pharmaceuticals companies, which routinely woo doctors to prescribe their drugs, Hill's has spent a generation cultivating its professional following. It spends hundreds of thousands of dollars a year funding university research and nutrition courses at every one of the 27 U.S. veterinary colleges. Once in practice, vets who sell Science Diet and other premium foods directly from their offices pocket profits of as much as 40%. [...]"

So there you have it - veterinarians don't recommend this food because they are convinced it's a great product, but because they make a profit and have other personal benefits. To the contrary of what many people think, nutrition is not a major subject in veterinary schools, and most of the courses offered are sponsored by one of the pet food giants. Any vets specializing in nutrition or following a holistic approach do their own research outside of what they were taught at college. If you look at books about pet nutrition, you will find that pet food companies are involved in those too. Click here to read the entire article.

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Stomach Comfort

One of my absolute favorite products is on sale this week! Stomach Comfort Chewable Tablets

Benefits: Helps neutralize acid, Soothes the stomach, Supports proper digestion.
Stomach Comfort provides natural ingredients to help nutritionally support digestion in times of occasional stomach upset. I call it my "Herbal Pepto" and keep it with me all the time.

It contains calcium carbonate, alginic acid (from kelp), wintergreen oil, papaya fruit, slippery elm bark, licorice root concentrate and ginger rhizome, all of which may help to protect the mucous lining of the esophagus, aid and promote digestion, and soothe the digestive tract. Stomach Comfort may help normal body processes in soothing occasional acid indigestion, heartburn or gas.

An independent lab tested Nature's Sunshine Stomach Comfort against three random samples of popular, over-the-counter antacid products to see how much acid each would neutralize.

Since high levels of stomach acid can lead to many forms of discomfort (heartburn, indigestion, etc.), the product that neutralizes the most acid in a given time period should provide superior relief.

Using pre-established scientific testing methods, the lab placed a sample equivalent to one tablet of each product into separate beakers containing 70 ml of water plus 30 ml of hydrochloric acid (the same acid found in the stomach) and stirred for 15 minutes. Then they measured the amount of acid remaining in each beaker. Deducting this from the original 30 ml of acid, they calculated how much acid was neutralized in each beaker. Nature's Sunshine Stomach Comfort neutralized more acid than the three competitors, providing 12.5 - 50% more relief per tablet.


Adults: Chew 1-2 tablets up to three times daily for quick, temporary stomach relief. Chew 1–2 tablets between meals for pH balancing.

Stomach Comfort is on sale this week for NSP members at 2 dollars off per bottle, or buy 4/get one free.

Click here to purchase at the sale price.
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Training Treats

Good behavior should be rewarded, but often training treats are empty-calorie treats with no nutritive value and include undesirable ingredients. I prefer Tasty Rewards training treats because they are small, easy to break apart for rewarding when I clicker train KaeJae and they are completely healthy, containg free-range, farm-raised chicken and venison -- no added chemical preservatives or artificial coloring.
Click here for further information.

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I adopted your pet today....

I ADOPTED YOUR PET TODAY

The one you left at the pound
The one you had for seven years
and no longer wanted around.

I adopted your pet today
Do you know he's lost weight?
Do you know he's scared and depressed
and has lost all faith?

I adopted your pet today.
he had fleas and a cold,
but don't worry none.
You've unburdened your load.

I adopted your pet today.
Were you having a baby or moving away?
Did you suddenly develop allergies or was
there no reason he couldn't stay?

I adopted your pet today.
he doesn't play or eat much
He's very depressed, but
he will learn again to trust.

I adopted your pet today.
And here he will stay.
He's found his forever home
and a warm bed on which to lay.

I adopted your pet today.
And I will give him all that he could need.
Patience, love, security, and understanding.
Hopefully he will forget your selfish deed.

-Author Unknown

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Bandit's Heartworm Program.

StopCanineObesity.com

Canine Obesity – Just How Bad Is It?

Canine obesity is an important – and very common – medical condition with serious health implications. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has estimated that there are 41.2 million pet dogs in the United States. Other sources estimate 40 percent of those dogs, approximately 17 million, are overweight or obese. A recent study conducted by Pfizer Animal Health found that veterinarians consider 47% of their patients overweight or obese but only 17% of dog owners think the same. Why the difference? It could be denial or the difficulty owners have in recognizing when their dogs are overweight. Click here to read the entire article.

Read about Weight Loss Formula Dog Food.

Vitamin E - Women - Blood Clots

Vitamin E Supplements May Reduce Risk of Blood Clots in Women
by David Gutierrez

(NaturalNews) Vitamin E supplements may reduce women's risk of developing potentially fatal blood clots, according to a new study published in Circulation, the journal of the American Heart Association.

"The data indicated that, in general, women taking vitamin E were 21 percent less likely to suffer a blood clot," the American Heart Association said.

Researchers reviewed data on 39,876 women who were taking part in the Women's Health Study. All participants were aged 45 or older. One group had been given 600 IU of vitamin E every other day for 10 years; the other group was given a placebo at the same frequency.

Over the course of 10 years, 482 women developed venous thromboembolism; 269 of these were in the placebo group, and only 213 were in the group being dosed with vitamin E. Researchers found that vitamin E appeared to have the greatest preventive benefit for women who already had a genetic predisposition toward developing blood clots. Read the entire article.

"Conclusions— These data suggest that supplementation with vitamin E may reduce the risk of VTE in women, and those with a prior history or genetic predisposition may particularly benefit." American Heart Association Abstract

Benefits of Vitamin E.

•Protects against free radicals.
•Supports the circulatory and reproductive systems, as well as the liver.
•Maintains normal-range blood viscosity.
•Supports glandular health.
•Promotes healthy-looking skin.
•Helps maintain cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range.

Health Analyzer Quiz
Click for more information on Vitamin E
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Pet Bowls

Your pets probably spend more time with their food and water bowls than any of your other pet products! They should be chosen for more than just their good looks, as some of their characteristics may result in health problems.

Cat Bowls
Your kitty needs a dish that is wide and shallow -- at least five inches across. Cats have sensitive whiskers, so shallow and wide are key. For the food bowl, make it no more than 1 1/2 inches deep; for the water bowl, between 2-3 inches deep. Shallow is more important than wide.

Dog Bowls
Your dog's most important consideration is that the food bowl is big enough to accommodate one meal of food. Stainless steel bowls with rubber bottoms that keep them from sliding are a great choice. The water bowl should be twice the size of the food bowl. Dogs need a lot of fresh water, so a large bowl will reduce the number of times you need to refill it. If your dog has floppy ears, you also need to make sure that the bowl is deep enough to accomodate the nose, yet narrow enough that their ears don’t fall into the bowl.

Bowl Material
Ceramic, porcelain, stoneware and stainless steal are hygienic and dishwasher-safe, and therefore ideal choices for your pet's bowl. Lead in the glaze of ceramic bowls can be a problem, so be sure to check with the manufacturer to make sure that it is lead-free.

Plastic/recycled plastic bowls - a no no!
Virgin plastic bowls are not a good choice environmentally because they are made from non-renewable resources and are not biodegradable. Lightweight plastic bowls can slide on the floor and are easily chewed by dogs. Some cats have been known to develop feline acne, which ceases when you stop feeding from a plastic bowl. Food particles can collect in the tiny scratches and grow the bacteria which causes feline acne. Feline acne appears as little black lesions on your cat’s chin. Left untreated, they can develop into whiteheads, which can become infected.

Elevated Feeders
Elevated feeders can be more comfortable for older pets. Dogs with arthritis may benefit from elevated feeders. Bending over to eat isn't comfortable for dogs or cats with stiff muscles and sore joints.

Info about pet food.
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Hand Sanitizer

NaturalNews.com
FDA Warns Proctor and Gamble about Unlawful Marketing Claims over Hand Sanitizer for Kids
by David Gutierrez

(NaturalNews) The FDA has sent an official warning letter to Procter and Gamble over the company's marketing of Vick's Early Defense Foaming Hand Sanitizer. The agency warned Procter and Gamble that its marketing claims for the hand sanitizer were "unlawful," because the FDA has not approved the product as either safe or effective for the uses that the company encourages.

Procter and Gamble actively promotes the hand sanitizer as a product for fighting germs and preventing colds in school-age children, claiming that the effects last for three hours. The company's web site encourages mothers to enter schools in a "Germ Fighting Fest" contest to win prizes and product samples.

But the FDA says that Procter and Gamble's claims have no support. One concern among many is that FDA rules require that products containing triclosan -- the active ingredient in Vick's Early Defense Foaming Hand Sanitizer -- instruct users to rinse their hands after use. Yet the Procter and Gamble product is marketed as an antibacterial agent to be used when soap and water are not available, merely being rubbed into the hands and left there. read the entire article.

For additional informationon Triclosan, click here.

FDA Letter to P & G

I have used Sunshine Concentrate since the 80's for all my washing needs. It does not contain Triclosan and is safe for the environment. Highly concentrated, Sunshine Sunshine Concentrate is a cleaner good for just about every cleaning need in your house, personal, auto, outdoor cleaning, etc. It is 100% organic, biodegradable, nontoxic, nonirritating, nonmagnetic, and nonvolatile, containing no polluting borates, phosphates, or nitrates. Most soap has a pH of 8 or higher. Sunshine Concentrate has a pH of 6.5, which is gentle to your skin. Use it for the shower and hand soap and dishes and notice the difference in your skin! Safe for people, animals, plants and the environment! Click here for more information.

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Vitamin C - Stroke Risk

High vitamin C level linked to decreased stroke risk

A person's level of vitamin C may predict his or her likelihood of having a stroke, according to a long-term study of some 20,000 middle-aged and older residents of Norfolk, United Kingdom.

During an average follow-up of 9.5 years, 448 strokes occurred in the study population. Researchers found that people with the highest vitamin C concentration at the start of the study had a 42 percent lower risk of stroke over 10 years compared to those with the lowest levels of vitamin C.

The protective effect of vitamin C against stroke remained after accounting for factors that could affect the risk, such as age, sex, smoking, alcohol intake, body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, physical activity, diabetes, prior heart attack, supplement use, and social class.

Dr. Phyo K. Myint from the University of Cambridge, UK, and colleagues report the study results in the American Journal of Nutrition. Read the entire article.

Read more about Vitamin C.
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Flu Vaccines in Seniors

Flu Vaccines Found Useless for Seniors;
Benefits Greatly Exaggerated, say Researchers
by David Gutierrez

(NaturalNews) The benefits of influenza vaccines on senior citizens have been "greatly exaggerate[d]," according to a major review of the evidence published in the medical journal Lancet Infectious Diseases.

Researchers examined prior studies on the effectiveness of the vaccine, and concluded that it is impossible to tell whether flu vaccines decrease winter deaths among senior citizens at all, let alone by the vast degree often claimed. A commonly cited statistic is that flu shots lead to a 50 percent reduction in winter deaths among the elderly. But the study authors point out that flu itself is only responsible for 5 percent of winter deaths in that population, making such a claim absurd. Read the entire article.

Click here for natural tips for colds and flu.
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Sander's Book

SANDER’S BOOK: The Education of a Dog Owner
By Connie Burnet

In 1998, when Connie Burnet’s Sheltie, Sander, was 7 years old, he was diagnosed with cancer in the form of a malignant oral tumor. The vets said it was inoperable and unstoppable, and they doubted that Sander would live more than a few more months.

Knowing that conventional cancer treatments were not an option for her dog, Connie worked with an herbalist to support Sander’s immune system, to arm it to fight the cancer, and to keep the quality of his life at the highest possible level. They met with amazing success. Sander died of old age when he was a few months short of his 15th birthday, in early 2006. He still had the cancer: it never went away, but it also never grew significantly, and it did not kill him. He lived with cancer for 7½ years, half of his life.

After Sander died, Connie wrote an account of that life, in “Sander’s Book: The Education of a Dog Owner.” It is the story of Sander’s progression from a dog under a sentence of death to a dog who lived a life that was long, happy, and full of accomplishments. The book includes chapters on cancer treatment, vaccinations, pest control, diet and nutrition, arthritis and chiropractic, veterinarians and veterinary medicine, learning from dogs, and death and dying. It is illustrated with color photos of Sander and is printed in an easy-to-read spiral-bound format. All profits from the sale of Sander’s Book are donated to dog causes and charities. Click here to order

********
My good friend Connie has published this book. I would encourage everyone to get a copy. Her writing style is brilliant and this book is a good resource as well as a promise of hope and healing for those dealing with dogs with cancer.

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Hawthorn - Heart Health

Hawthorn Extract Can Help The Heart, Review Finds

ScienceDaily — Adding another twist to the ongoing debate over the value of an herbal treatment for patients with heart failure, a new review of existing research suggests that hawthorn extract "significantly" improves symptoms.

A group of Cochrane Researchers looked to see if hawthorn extract was better than placebo for treating patients with chronic heart failure. They identified 14 randomised control trials that compared the effects of adding hawthorn extract or placebo to conventional therapies.

The trials involved a total of 855 patients and the data indicated that hawthorn extract: improved maximal workload, increased exercise tolerance, reduced oxygen consumption by the heart, and reduced shortness of breath and fatigue.

"There is good evidence that, when used alongside conventional therapy, hawthorn extract can bring additional benefits," says lead researcher Dr Ruoling Guo, who works in Complementary Medicine at Peninsula Medical School at the Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, UK. Read the entire article.

Click here for information on Hawthorn
Hawthorn-an ingredient in Bandit's Heartworm Program
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New Strain of Parvovirus

OSU Laboratory First to Discover a Virus in United States
OADDL Identifies A New Canine Parvovirus (PRess Release)

A team of Oklahoma State University (OSU) veterinarians, virologists and pathologists at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (OADDL) recently published a paper in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology on their findings from a Canine parvovirus (CPV) study. Led by Dr. Sanjay Kapil, the group is the first to describe the CPV type 2c variant in the United States.

“We were quite fortunate to discover this variant,” explains Kapil. “It has been known for six years in Italy but nobody paid attention to it here until we found it last year.”

Shortly after Kapil joined the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, he received a case at the OADDL. The adult dog had been vaccinated multiple times and still became sick with Parvovirus.

“This was very unusual and we were totally surprised that it was CPV type 2c, which had not been found in the U.S. until then,” says Kapil. “What was so interesting was that after we described this disease, we ended up with samples from other locations here in the U.S.”

A patent has been filed on the characteristics of the U.S. CPV-2c. The team reports that 500 samples were submitted from locations in south California to south Florida. The published paper has been presented at national level meetings and internationally in Italy and Melbourne, Australia. However, their work is not done.

“The team work was most important. Sometimes we received ten dead puppies a day. We are working with several veterinarians and are receiving samples from cases with a history of vaccine failure,” continues Kapil. “Diagnostic laboratories need to be involved to identify CPV-2c. The disease now exists in all countries except Australia because of its geographical isolation.”

According to Kapil, the disease presentation is different in that normally parvovirus does not affect adult dogs only puppies. However, since publishing their findings, the OADDL has received samples from adult dogs in Minnesota.
Visit CVHS.

Canine parvovirus (CPV), attacks/destroys the intestinal cells, which results in diarrhea and vomiting, nearly always accompanied by blood and a very strong odor. First symptoms manifest 3-10 days after infection. Early detection is critical; a dog with CPV must be placed on IV fluids and antibiotics. Left untreated, most dogs will die from dehydration or bacterial infection in a matter of days. Aside from vaccination, the most important thing you can do to prevent the virus is keep your pets away from areas occupied by infected dogs. CPV spreads mainly through contact with infected feces, soil and surfaces,and can survive harsh weather and many forms of disinfection.


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Ivermectin Sensitivity

Ivermectin (Heartgard/Heartgard Plus, Iverhart/Iverhart Plus, Tri-Heart Plus)

"In 2001, a group led by Dr. Katrina Mealey at Washington State University identified the mutation underlying adverse drug response in Collies (including so-called ivermectin sensitivity). Shortly thereafter, the researchers found the mutation in an Australian Shepherd, suggesting that other related breeds might be predisposed to multiple drug sensitivities. This prediction agreed with anecdotal observations that several other breeds also appeared to be supersensitive to the drug ivermectin." Read the entire article.

"For many years, veterinarians knew a certain pharmaceutical used to eliminate internal parasites in animals was very toxic to a subpopulation of collies. What they didn’t know was why. Now a pharmacologist at the WSU College of Veterinary Medicine has discovered a mutant gene for a key transport protein in the susceptible collies. The gene codes for P-glycoprotein, a large protein complex that acts to pump medications out of the brain and back to the bloodstream where they can be metabolized safely. In the collies that lacked the complete gene for P-glycoprotein, they do not produce the complete protein and cannot pump out the medications". Read the entire article.

"Collie owners have long known that ivermectin in the treatment of helminths and mites can result in death of some Collies. Until the mutation and its frequency were discovered, the inconsistency in toxic reaction within the breed caused some confusion. Now we know that approximately 30% of collies are homozygous for the mutation, and these are the Collies particularly at risk. Because a commercial test is now available, purebred Collies should be genetically tested before administering any drug that is a P-glycoprotein substrate in high doses." Additional information at the American Working Collie Association

Pharmacogenetics: It’s not just about ivermectin in collies -- Patricia Dowling, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4 -- "When considering the use of macrocyclic lactones such as ivermectin or moxidectin in dogs, veterinarians have followed the adage, “white feet, don’t treat.” This refers to the known sensitivity of Scotch collies (both rough and smooth) to neurotoxicity when administered these drugs at higher than label doses. But the adage has also been applied to many other herding breeds and has prevented veterinarians from using these drugs in situations where they would have been ideal." Read the entire article.


Breeds that are known to carry the mdr1 mutation include Australian Shepherds, Collies, English Shepherds, Longhaired Whippets, McNabs, Old English Sheepdogs, Shetland Sheepdogs, white German Shepherds and Silken Windhounds. Research has shown that three out of four Collies have at least one copy of the mutated gene. This means that if your dog is mixed with any of these breeds, you need to be very careful about the use of Ivermectin. Ivermectin is an ingredient in: Heartguard, Iverhart, Tri-Heart and Advantage DUO. Other drugs that can effect these breeds are: loperamide for diarrhea (commonly sold as Imodium), morphine, butorphanol (pain and cough suppression) and acepromazine (Ace, ACP, or Atravet).

Signs of Ivermectin Poisoning may include: excessive dilatation of the pupil of the eye,lethargy, stupor, coma, tremors, loss of coordination of the muscles, vomiting and drooling.

Bandit's Natural Heartworm Program
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Heartworm FAQ's

Wholesome Hearts Dog Treats

Wholesome Hearts are all-natural, low-fat dog treats. The rich flavor and delicate aromatic spices make them simply irresistible. Proudly made in the USA with all natural, high-quality American ingredients.

Ingredients:
Contains no corn, no wheat or wheat gluten, no soy or soy gluten. No chemical preservatives, no artificial colors and no artificial flavors. Fortified with L-Carnitine for a healthy heart and fat metabolism.

The rice germ/bran included in this recipe has been studied at University of Illinois for its ability to enhance the immune system functioning and skin and coat health, and is chock full of protein and B vitamins.

Cranberries, a whole food that supports healthy urinary tract functioning. Contains other whole foods such as high quality proteins, sliced apples, squash, yellow field peas, tomatoes, cloves (which have extremely high antioxidant values), cranberries, pumpkin, ginger and nutmeg.

Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (Min.) 13.5%
Crude Fat (Min.) 8.0%
Crude Fat (Max.) 9.5%
Crude Fiber (Max.) 3.0%
Moisture (Max.) 9.0%

Click here to order.
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Coenzyme Q10 (Heart Support)

Co-Q10 transports energy to the mitochondria where carbohydrates and fatty acids are converted into energy (ATP). This energy-making process fuels most metabolic processes and also serves as a precursor of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). Co-Q10 is an excellent support for the cardiovascular system. Supplementation with this coenzyme has been shown to maintain mitochondrial and cardiac functions, and support recovery after stress and surgery. As an antioxidant, Co-Q10 scavenges free radicals, protects cardiac cells, prevents lipid oxidation and promotes the regeneration of vitamin E, another antioxidant.

Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S. states on his site “The normal dose for pets is 10mg. / 15 pounds of body weight per day. I incorporate this into all my natural protocols for heart disease.”

Antietam Valley Animal Hospital’s Monthly Newsletter, ISSUE # 2, October 2000 states the following: “…10 mg for cats and small dogs, 20 mg for medium dogs, 30-40 mg for large dogs and 50 mg for giant breed dogs. Give once or twice daily.”

Jennifer Prince, DVM, states: “…is essential for energy production at the cellular level. It helps the body produce energy both by helping to create the enzymes the cell uses to create ATP and by creating energy directly. It is also an antioxidant.”

Read the entire article.
COQ10 Plus -- COQ10 -- COQ10 SoftGel
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Chocolate!

Taken From: WebMd.com

It's the best medical news in ages! Studies in two prestigious scientific journals say dark chocolate -- but not white chocolate or milk chocolate -- is good for you.

Dark Chocolate Lowers Blood Pressure

Dark chocolate -- not white chocolate -- lowers high blood pressure, say Dirk Taubert, MD, PhD, and colleagues at the University of Cologne, Germany. Their report appears in the Aug. 27 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.

But that's no license to go on a chocolate binge. Eating more dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure -- if you've reached a certain age and have mild high blood pressure, say the researchers. But you have to balance the extra calories by eating less of other things.

Antioxidants in Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate -- but not milk chocolate or dark chocolate eaten with milk -- is a potent antioxidant, report Mauro Serafini, PhD, of Italy's National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research in Rome, and colleagues. Their report appears in the Aug. 28 issue of Nature. Antioxidants gobble up free radicals, destructive molecules that are implicated in heart disease and other ailments.

"Our findings indicate that milk may interfere with the absorption of antioxidants from chocolate ... and may therefore negate the potential health benefits that can be derived from eating moderate amounts of dark chocolate."

Translation: Say "Dark, please," when ordering at the chocolate counter. Don't even think of washing it down with milk. And if health is your excuse for eating chocolate, remember the word "moderate" as you nibble. Read the entire article

Nature’s Sweet Life Dark Chocolate Bar - Indulge in delicious chocolate without the calories and oral detriment of sugar. Unlike typical candy bars, these chocolate bars provide nutrients that benefit the body. Our dark chocolate bar is packed with antioxidants and sweetened with all-natural xylitol. Xylitol’s unique molecular structure translates to a very limited effect on blood sugar levels, making it the perfect sweetener for those concerned with blood sugar balance, weight loss or carb counting. Xylitol provides just 40 percent of the calories that sucrose does. It has a great dark chocolate taste with no artificial aftertaste. Click here for more information
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HSII (Support for the Heart)

HSII is an herbal combination designed for the circulatory system, and more particularly, the heart. It is based on three herbs: hawthorn berries, capsicum and garlic - a simple combination. But sometimes simple things can help prevent complications later.

Hawthorn berry, an herb regarded by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a symbol of hope and happiness, makes up the bulk of this combination. Hawthorn berry is a "bitter" that is famous in Europe as a heart stimulant. It assists the body in strengthening all the heart tissues and is considered by herbalists to be a specific heart tonic. Hawthorn berry's effects are felt very slowly, and much of its overall benefit seems to be related to certain flavonoids it contains. These help the body open up constricted blood vessels, having a general dilating effect.

Capsicum is an aromatic herb that promotes blood flow to the extremities. It contains valuable nutrientslike vitamins A, B, and C with iron and calcium. Although it tastes very hot, capsicum is actually harmless to the stomach lining. Not only does capsicum stimulate digestive juices, but it is also considered a nervine herb, which is beneficial for a healthy heart rhythm.

Garlic is one of the oldest of all herbs used by man. It is an aromatic herb and is reported to have beneficial effects for both the circulatory and immune systems. It helps the body to normalize blood pressure while improving blood circulation at the same time.

HSII is an excellent herbal nutrition for a weakened circulatory system. Click here for additional information.

HSII is one of the components of Bandit's Heartworm Program.

Heartworm Testing

Testing for Heartworm Disease
Excerpts Taken from Marvistavet.com

The chief issue in the diagnosis of heartworm disease centers around the detection of heartworm infection. The following are a list of diagnostic methods that have been and are used in the detection of heartworms within the pet dog's body.

DIRECT BLOOD SMEAR

While this method is a simple screening test, it is not recommended as a regular test method. In this test, a single drop of blood is examined under the microscope for the presence of live microfilariae.

DIFIL TEST AND KNOTT'S TEST

These tests represent "concentration" methods for the detection of microfilariae so that more subtle infections can be detected.

ANTIGEN TESTING

Using genetic engineering, it has become possible to create extremely sensitive tests capable of detecting tiny pieces of adult heartworm skin circulating in the blood. In this way, very small numbers of adult worms can be detected, even single worm infections. This kind of testing has made it possible to detect infections in which no microfilariae are present: the so-called "Occult Infections."

ANTIBODY TESTING

Antigen tests have limited usefulness when it comes to infections involving only a few worms. One problem is that the antigens detected by antigen tests are unique to female worms. For most tests, at least three female worms are needed for the test to show a positive result. Animals infected with only male worms will test antigen negative. To get around these limitations, antibody tests have been developed to detect the host's immune response against the parasite.
Click here for further details on heartworm testing.

Click here to read Bandit's Heartworm Story.

Matters of the Heart

Natural Support for Heart Problems in Dogs & Cats
Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S.

Heart problems in dogs and cats can be very serious and life threatening and often present without our awareness or prior warning. They can vary from congenital or hereditary problems that they are born with to problems of old age such as congestive heart failure in dogs or secondary to other conditions such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) in cats. All of these conditions need to be diagnosed by your veterinarian and managed properly with conventional medications or surgery if required. Early symptoms of heart conditions that might tip you off that there may be a problem include increased lethargy, depression, weakness, weight loss, breathing difficulties, panting excessively with minimal or no exercise and a progressive cough. Sometimes, there will be no symptoms and your pet will all of a sudden collapse. At times like this, you need to rush your pet to the nearest veterinarian or emergency clinic. We can not review all the different types of heart problems in this article, but these warning signs should make you aware that you should have your fourlegged friend see their veterinarian. Other introductory books on dog and cat health care review the many causes of heart disease.

The question then arises, is there a natural approach to help prevent minor heart problems from progressing or at least slowing down the progression of the disease and help support the heart when there is a more serious problem. The good news is that there are indeed natural approaches to help support the heart. However, I cannot emphasize enough that these are not meant to replace conventional medicine, but to complement it and support the heart naturally.read the entire article.

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Valentine's Day and Pets

ASPCA Guide To A Pet-Friendly Valentine’s Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, sweethearts everywhere are searching far and wide for that perfect gift to give to loved ones during this romance-filled time of year—roses, chocolates & candy, a candle-lit dinner with wine, perhaps even a new four-legged friend. But the ASPCA wants to caution you that some traditional Valentine’s Day gift and celebration ideas should come with a warning for your furry or feathered companions.

It may seem very tempting to give your loved one a new puppy or kitten for Valentine’s Day. They sure are cute and cuddly! But the ASPCA wants to remind you that bringing a new companion animal into your home is a big decision. Why not present your loved one with a gift certificate to adopt from your local shelter, or take a trip to the shelter together? You might just make another love match.
Click here read the entire article.

Healthy Dog Treat Ideas.
Healthy Cat Treat Ideas.

Pet Food Indictments

I read today in the news that two Chinese businesses and a U.S. business were all three indicted for their roles in making and importing a pet food ingredient (wheat gluten) that resulted in the horrible death of so many pets last year. Xuzhou Anying Biologic Technology Development Co., Suzhou Textiles, Silk, Light Industrial Products, Arts and Crafts I/E Co., and Las Vegas-based ChemNutra Inc. were charged in two separate but related indictments. Click here to read the entire article.

An astonishing 150 pet foods were recalled last year which resulted in kidney failure and death to so many cats and dogs. FDA Recall Information.

Although you may think all pet food manufacturers have your pet’s best interests in mind, this is not always the case. Current pet food regulations allow manufacturers to use ingredients that you would never knowingly give to your pet. In fact, you may be shocked to learn what some brands of pet food really contain. For example: the use of by-products (feet, bones and intestines, etc.), chemical preservatives (BHA and BHT) and grains that are often difficult to digest (corn, wheat, gluten and soy), which are often used as a protein source instead of meat. Click here for more information.

Life’s Abundance Premium Pet Food is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients. It is a nutrient dense food with high quality meat proteins and NO by-products, corn, wheat, gluten or soy. NO artificial flavors, colors, sugars or chemical preservatives. Veterinarian Formulated … Life’s Abundance is formulated by Dr. Jane Bicks, a highly respected and nationally recognized holistic veterinarian.

Pet Food FAQ's.

Grapes and Raisin Toxicity

Katrina McKnight, BS, CVT
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Urbana, Illinois

Dogs are exposed to grapes and raisins in many ways. Frequently, dogs will eat fruit off the vine, steal from plates, and even eat wine pressings. Grapes and raisins have been recommended as treats and training aids because fruit is tasty and relatively low in calories. Unfortunately, dogs can have dangerous reactions to grapes and raisins. Between January 2001 and August 2004, over 200 calls were made to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center1 involving potential exposures to grapes or raisins in dogs.

Sensitive dogs have a risk of initial gastrointestinal upset followed by acute renal failure (ARF). This column discusses clinical signs and treatment of grape and raisin toxicosis in dogs.

Currently, grape-seed extract is not considered a threat; only the grape or raisin itself is considered a danger.
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4 Paws for Ability Assistance Dogs

"Do you know of a disabled child who needs a service dog? We believe that service dogs should be made available to anyone with a disability who wishes to have the love, companionship, and independence that are the result of service dog placement.

Because of this we have few restrictions for acceptance and work with most families within the boundaries of our organization's ability to train and place the type of dog needed.

Did you know that 4 Paws for Ability specializes in placements with people who are turned away by many other agencies? Our commitment is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities by training and placing service animals that provide them with companionship and promote independent living. We welcome families who may not fit the typical service dog concept and specialize in cutting edge placements and creative solutions for unconventional placements."

Read the entire article.
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Rhodiola Extract

(NaturalNews.com) Rhodiola rosea is now, according to recent research, becoming more widely accepted in the U.S. as a powerful anti-aging, anti-stress formula. In today's culture with stress coming from every direction, this comes as good news and a possible natural stress-relief treatment.

The herbal extract of a yellow-flowered mountain plant indigenous to the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia increased the lifespan of fruit fly populations, according to a University of California, Irvine study.

Soviet researchers have been studying Rhodiola since the 1940s on athletes and cosmonauts, finding that the herb boosts the body’s response to stress. And earlier this year, a Nordic Journal of Psychiatry study on people with mild-to-moderate depression showed that patients taking a Rhodiola extract called SHR-5 reported fewer symptoms of depression than did those who took a placebo.

Rhodiola rosea is classified as an adaptogen herb, which means it increases the body's ability to cope with internal and external stress factors, and normalize the functions of the organism. Adaptogen herbs help maintain the stable internal environment inside the organism known as homeostasis.

Russia has used Rhodiola rosea for years to enhance mental and physical performance. It has been widely used by Russian athletes and cosmonauts to increase energy. In addition, Russian medicine has also traditionally given Rhodiola rosea to its soldiers, sportsmen and aging political leaders as an effective anti-aging medicine. Rhodiola rosea helped them to improve cognitive functions and physical performance.
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Nature's Sunshine's Adaptamax is an exclusive combination that combines powerful adaptogens with other nutrient-rich, immune-supporting herbs for a complete, energizing formula. Adaptamax's adaptogenic strength comes from Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Korean ginseng, ashwaganda, rosemary, Gynostemma pentaphyllum and schizandra.

Together these herbs help the body cope with a variety of stressful conditions, including stress on the immune system, fatigue and aging. They fight oxidative cellular damage, energize the body, support positive mood and stimulate the immune system.

Click here for more information on AdaptaMax.

Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

"The Other End of the Leash"

This book was recommended to me long ago and it's just absolutely one of the best books written on understanding dog behavior. Dr. McConnell teaches you how to retrain yourself so that you speak consistently in the language that your dog can understand, avoiding sending conflicting and/or confusing messages. The book combines true stories about people and dogs with a scientific perspective on how they should behave around each other. This book has truly helped me make the most of life with my dogs. I highly recommend it! Click here for additional information.
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