Allergies in dogs may be difficult to recognize and diagnose, as they can manifest in many ways such as: skin rashes, hot spots, respiratory problems, and/or digestive problems.  Furthermore, allergies can be caused by any number of environmental triggers like: toxins in food, pesticides, drugs, bacteria, and so much more.

Allergy symptoms arise when the bodily organs are unable to detoxify the body properly when overexposed to toxins.  Symptoms such as: rashes, inflamed ears, or respiratory problems may appear because the body is attempting to eliminate the toxin, since the kidney, liver, and other organs were unsuccessful in doing so.

Most current medications only suppress the symptoms and the overall immune system, but after long-term use, they may lead to more serious problems.  They simply don’t address the underlying cause.  A more natural way to treat allergies in dogs would be to reduce the amount of toxins your pet encounters, and provide wholesome foods and supplements to support the elimination of toxins in the digestive system.  Replacing medications with homeopathic treatments, eliminating unnecessary vaccinations, and opting for more natural kinds of home pesticides and cleaning products whenever possible will help to reduce your pet’s exposure to harmful toxins.  Also, carefully research the food products given to your dog.  Many products are processed overseas in places like China, where processing standards are questionable.  They may contain bacteria, toxins from mold and fungi, and genetically modified plant products.  On the other hand, fresh foods and supplements can aide in eliminating toxins through the digestive system as well as alleviating symptoms.  Some of these foods and supplements include: grape seed extract, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta carotene just to name a few.

Pet owners can overcome allergy causes and symptoms in their dogs by taking a closer look at their pet’s environment and nutrition.  A healthier life is possible for their dogs without the harmful immune suppression of allergy medications.

Information provided by: “A New Look at Canine Allergies,” January 9, 2012, Dogs Naturally Magazine, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com .

The History of Fluoride in Tap Water

Proponents of adding fluoride to tap water claimed that it was highly effective in preventing tooth decay, despite recent studies which have proven this claim to be unfounded.  Successful marketing campaigns to promote this chemical as a tool in the fight against tooth decay resulted in many city governments in America and around the globe to add fluoride to tap water.  An increase in the demand for fluoridation of tap water led to the import of synthesized fluoride from China, which has been proven to be contaminated with heavy metals.

Fluoride has a long and dark history as a biochemical toxin.  It has been used in rat and cockroach poison, and even on human inmates in Nazi German prison camps to sterilize inmates and make them more docile.

Debunking the Myth That Fluoride is a Safe Water Additive

Recent research not only challenges the common belief that fluoride strengthens teeth, but there is evidence that it actually causes tooth disease as well as weakened bones, bone cancer, bone loss, kidney disease, and cognitive dysfunction, among other side effects.

This most recent research has lead to a major movement in Europe to become completely free of fluoridated water.  In fact, European countries have almost reached this goal, as 98% of their tap water is fluoride free.

Harmful Effects of Fluoride in Pet Food and Water

A current study of components in dog food, taken by the EPA, found that high levels of fluoride were found in 8 leading brands of dog food.  Osteosarcoma may be caused by ingestion of fluoride and it is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs, effecting approximately 8,000 dogs per year.

The fluoride in tap water leads to fluoride in most vegetables and meat products that humans and animals consume in this country.  Therefore, it is very difficult to avoid consumption.  However, concerned pet owners do have the power to limit their pets’ consumption by providing home-prepared food.

Protecting Family and Pets

There are ways to counteract the fluoride in tap water.  Here are some fairly common household items that may help to remove fluorine from the body:

-         Boron (only if used in a very small amount, as large amounts can be toxic).

-         Kelp and Iodine Supplements (although Iodine may cause Calcium depletion; therefore Calcium should be added to the diet).

-         Apple Pectin, Turmeric, Cilantro, Cayenne, and Parsley may also be useful agents in the removal of fluoride in the body.

Protecting Your Community

For those individuals who are concerned about fluoride in your tap water, there are steps that can be taken to protect your communities.  First, research the annual water quality report provided by your local city water department.  If fluoride is present in the tap water in your community, speak out against it by contacting your state and local officials as well as your senators.  Another way to raise awareness is by educating the public about the harmful effects of fluoride on humans and animals.  Many communities have become aware of the evidence that suggests that fluoride in tap water is harmful and they have moved toward fluoride free tap water.  By raising awareness, your community can do the same.

By: Holly Sharpe, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC

Information provided by: “What’s In Your Pet’s Water?” by Joanne Suresh, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com . 

Check out this viedo Can’t Stay away.

McClintock Animal Care on Elliot and McClintock 480-820-2822

Dogs Day Out Grooming on Warner and Dobson 480-786-5866

Herbalist, Greg Tilford, recently stated in an article entitled, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” published in the November 2011 edition of Dogs Naturally Magazine, that the purpose of herbal support for kidney disease is to increase the blood flow to the kidney.  He believes that kidneys are highly dependant upon their oxygen supply, which can be thrown out of sync quite easily by poor circulation.

Greg recommends a recipe including five herbs, all of which support kidney health and blood circulation.  Dandelion leaf (increases urine flow), Marshmallow (decreases inflammation), Echinacea (anti-bacterial agent), Ginkgo (improves blood vessel function in the kidneys and helps reduce inflammation in the urinary tract), and Hawthorn (improves renal circulation) may be combined in equal parts and administered by ¼ teaspoon, for dogs weighing 20 pounds, twice daily separately from meals.  It is also important to make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh drinking water as well.

Information provided by, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” Dogs Naturally on November 9, 2011, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com .

Written by Holly Sharpe, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.

In cities across this country, police and health officials discover thousands of animals of all types ranging from dogs, to cats, birds, goats, and even pigs, imprisoned in the homes of animal hoarders.  Victims of animal hoarding suffer from disease, neglect, malnutrition, and starvation at the hands of their owners.  Animal hoarding is a form of animal cruelty that affects not only the safety and well-being of animals but public safety as well.

A Definition of Animal Hoarding

Animal hoarding is a phenomenon that has only recently received public and media attention.  In previous years, animal hoarders may have gone completely unnoticed and undiagnosed.  By understanding the definition of animal hoarding, communities and concerned citizens will become better equipped to stop or prevent instances from occurring.  A recent article entitled “Quick Summary of Animal Hoarding” written by Victoria Hayes on http://animallaw.info , defined animal hoarding as a large number of animals acquired by an individual, which has become overwhelming to that individual to the degree that the animals are not receiving the most basic requirements for their health and safety.  Furthermore, the individual is unable or unwilling to recognize that the living conditions of the effected animals and surrounding humans is unacceptable by any standards.

 The Cause for Animal Hoarding

Senseless acts of negligence upon hundreds of innocent animals begs the question, “Why do they do it?”   Until recently, many people thought that individuals with large accumulations of animals were simply “animal lovers.”  However, experts agree that animal hoarding is a form or symptom of mental illness that must be addressed by psychological treatment.

The Consequences of Animal Hoarding

Without treatment, animal hoarders have a tendency to continue with their compulsive behavior regardless of the consequences that they face.  In many cases, they are alienated by their friends, family, and communities.  Furthermore, animal hoarders may face multiple encounters with the law which may result in the loss of their homes or animals, and may involve misdemeanor or felony charges.  Generally, animal hoarding charges will be prosecuted according to state animal cruelty laws.  In most states animal hoarding is a misdemeanor offense.  However, some states consider it to be a felony offense, which may result in jail time.

The animals are the innocent victims who truly suffer the consequences of this horrific act.  In many cases, they endure starvation, neglect, disease, and must live in unsanitary environments.  In some severe instances, they are forced to live among and even feed on the deceased animals around them.  Their fates are grim unless they are found and rescued by caring individuals in the community.

Animal hoarders also affect the lives of humans living among them and in their community.  In many cases of animal hoarding, children may be forced to live under the same roof and endure the same unsanitary conditions.  They may be exposed to diseases carried by the animals kept at the residence.  Neighboring residences may also suffer from exposure to diseases, sanitation problems, and unwelcome sounds and smells due to nearby animal hoarders.

Raising Awareness

In an effort to raise awareness of this very serious form of animal cruelty, the state of Hawaii actually passed a law against animal hoarding.  Proponents of the law argued that it would help to increase understanding among the general population, of the gravity of the offense.  Those opposed to the law simply felt it was redundant, as animal hoarding is currently prosecuted under state animal cruelty laws.  Similar laws have been proposed in other states, such as Montana, and New Mexico, but were not passed into law.Concerned citizens can help to raise awareness in their communities by reporting cases of animal hoarding to local authorities, speaking out in their communities against animal cruelty, and participating in local groups and organizations that fight against these senseless acts.

 Information provided by “Quick Summary of Animal Hoarding” written by Victoria Hayes on http://animallaw.info.  By Holly Sharpe and Kara Jenkins, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.

Daisy

This adorable female domestic short hair cat with black and white markings was born in 2009.  She is shy but very sweet.

Ziggy

This precious male Tabby was born in 2005.  He is very friendly and is looking for a family to love.

 Tashia

This all
black Persian cat was born in 1994.  She is very friendly and needs a loving home.

Our team has been hitting it hard with TNR one to two times a week, and really hoping to see fewer kittens this spring… at least at a few of the trailer parks and motels we’re working on.  The biggest problem we have run into is having the funds to get as many cats spayed and neutered as possible, and of course, also the time and “man power” to do it all.  We had a garage sale this month which raised $275.00, and we were very fortunate to get a grant for one very large trailer park in Tempe.

There is a huge need for TNR at the Colonnade Motel in east Mesa, and Country Club Village Mobile Home Park.  Both of these are on a “wait list” because there are no funds available for them.  It is pathetic to see the many kittens scavenging for food and sickly due to intestinal parasites and lack of nutrition.  We hope to end the breeding cycle for these cats and help them to have better lives.  If you would like to donate for TNR, you can send your tax deductible donations made out to H.A.R.T., to our P.O. Box below.  Please forward this email to anyone you know who might like to support TNR, or even help with trapping and transport.  We are always accepting cat food donations too, and can arrange to pick up on the weekends.

As always, thank you for any support you can offer or for forwarding to others who might be in a position to help the cats.  Last spring we received donations from two people whose employers have a program of corporate matching for charities and non-profit groups.  What an awesome idea!  That was a huge help and greatly appreciated!

H.A.R.T.

P.O. Box 606

Mesa, AZ  85211-0606

Jacey Brown

H.A.R.T.   ~  Homeless Animals Rescue Team

* 70,000 puppies and kittens are born every  

   day in the U.S.

* Between four million and six million pets are 

   euthanized every year because they are

   homeless.

* That means between 11,000 and 16,000 

   pets are euthanized every day simply 

   because they are homeless.

* An animal in a shelter is killed every 1.5

   seconds.

* Only one animal in 10 born in the U.S. gets a

   good home that lasts a lifetime.        

Don’t Breed or Buy While Shelter Pets Die!

There are numerous options for pet owners to manage their dog’s arthritis without turning to drugs, which may have harmful side effects.  Arthritis is defined as an inflammation of the joints and Osteoarthritis is considered to be the degenerative deterioration of the cartilage which causes inflammation of the joints.  This inflammation is both chronic and painful.

Each dog will display symptoms of Osteoarthritis in different ways.  It is important for the owner to recognize how their pet displays symptoms, in order to properly treat it through natural and herbal medicines as well as certain foods and supplements, wrote Dr. Julie Mayer, DVM of Integrative Pet Care, featured in the June 2011 edition of Dogs Naturally Magazine.  Some pets may have more pain and discomfort when the weather is wet, while others may have more difficulty during periods of activity.

Treating Osteoarthritis by consuming certain foods, supplements, and natural medicines listed below may help to decrease stiffness, reduce inflammation, strengthen bones and joints, reduce dampness in joints, and ease pain and discomfort.

Food Remedies to Address Symptoms of Arthritis

Break Up Stiffness – basil, barley crab, alfalfa, kelp, almond, shrimp, oats, nori, kelp, vinegar, and wheat germ

Anti-inflammatory – alfalfa, turnip, sweet potato, squash, spinach, soybean, radish, pumpkin, pear, peach, parsley, papaya, mango, kale, ginger, garlic, cucumber, celery, cauliflower, carrot, cabbage, broccoli, berries, beets, beans, bananas, apples

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidants – citrus fruits and veggies, green tea, grape seed extract, quercetin, pine bark

Supplements to Reduce Inflammation and Improve Joint Function

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Silicon, Zinc, Magnesium, Manganese, Calcium, MSM, Green Lipped Mussel, Cetyl-meristoleate, and Omega 3

Herbal Remedies

Ginger – a common anti-inflammatory herbal remedy

Arnica – an herbal pain killer

Aconitum napellus – addresses both pain and inflammation made worse during cold weather

Rhus toxicodendron – helps with stiffness when moving after periods of inactivity

Bryonia – aids in controlling symptoms after periods of activity

Calcarea phosphorica – reduces bone calcification

Ruta graveolens – assists with stiffness that appears during damp weather

Morinda root – strengthen bones and joints

Mellettia – addresses dampness and stiffness in joints

Du huo – dries out dampness in joints and reduces pain

Eucommia – strengthens bones and helps to heal injuries

Frankincense (Boswellia) – reduces joint pain and improves function

Poria – reduces dampness and stiffness in joints

Myrrh – breaks up stiffness and reduces inflammation

Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) – improves strength in bones and joints while reducing numbness in arms and legs

Creating a Treatment Plan for Your Pet

Dr. Mayer suggests that pet owners who would like a holistic approach to the symptoms of Arthritis should do so by first consulting their dog’s health care provider, as well as by including a physical therapy routine, based upon the needs and abilities of their pets.

The key to providing an effective treatment plan for a pet with Arthritis, is through understanding the types of symptoms the pet has and how those symptoms are triggered (during damp weather, after periods of activity, etc.).  Using one or a combination of foods and alternative medicines may help to ease pain and improve joint function.

Information provided by “A Natural Approach to Managing Arthritis,” by Dr. Julie Mayer DVM.  Copyright May/June 2011 edition, by Dogs Naturally Magazine.  Reproduced with permission of Dogs Naturally Magazine, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/subscribe/

By Holly Sharpe and Kara Jenkins, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.