This is a good article connecting nutrition and behavior. I'm not sure I can agree that a lower protein intake results in less aggression, as I am a long-time feeder of a raw diet backed up by my vet and even Best Friends Animal Sanctuary both of which recommend a raw diet for aggressive dog cases. However, it is very true that excess carbs can cause a ton of problems in both physical, mental, and emotional health.
Aggression is a topic that has been much investigated in behavioral research. Despite the large number of publications dealing with this subject, many aspects are still not understood. Recent studies have provided new endocrine and neurophysiologic insights into the underlying mechanisms resulting in the expression of aggression. In the past, the steroid hormone testosterone was believed to be the main endocrine activator of aggressive behavior and its expression rate. However, the importance of testosterone seems to lie in its neuromodulatory function, especially in the regulation of overall dominance and competitive aggression. In turn, unrestrained aggression, impulsivity and risk-taking behavior are associated with low central serotonin activity. Other centrally active molecules, such as vasopressin or dopamine are also key players in mediating aggressiveness. In a social context, aggression is mostly applied in competitive processes to obtain access to limited resources such as food and mating partners, or for the defense of resources. Intriguingly, diverse forms of aggression are probably triggered by environmental factors such as the availability and quality of food.
Clinical evidence indicates that, for some persons, diet may be associated with, or exacerbate, such conditions as learning disability, poor impulse control, intellectual deficits, a tendency toward violence, hyperactivity, and alcoholism and/or drug abuse, and behaviors associated with delinquent behavior. Recent studies of the relationship between diet and behavior involving offender populations have yielded evidence that a change in diet can result in significant reduction in aggressive or antisocial behavior. Much as humans feel offended at certain things and resort to aggression, dogs too respond similarly. Just as certain foods do not suit humans, there are many foods that should not be fed to dogs. There’s more to antisocial behavior than nutrition, but I would argue that it is an important missing link.
Recently, dietary recommendations have included reducing total protein intake to control aggression, blaming aggression on not having enough fat in the diet, and trying to prove that adding tryptophan to the diet will curb aggression. With regard to the effect of total dietary protein content on behavior in dogs, the results of one study suggest that a reduction in dietary protein content is not generally useful in the treatment of behavior problems in dogs, but may be appropriate in dogs with territorial aggression that is a result of fear. Fear-aggressive behavior was significantly reduced in dogs fed a low (17%) protein diet when compared to medium (25%) and high (32%) protein diets. This same study concluded that dietary protein had no effect on dominant-aggressive dogs. This study confirmed numerous earlier studies linking high protein levels with different types of aggression. The speculation is that high protein levels in the food provide an over-abundance of amino acids, essentially crowding out the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is essential for seratonin production, which has a calming and stabilizing effect on canine behavior. Newer studies are trying to prove that tryptophan can help reduce aggression because of its relationship with the production of serotonin, which in turn helps produce calmness. For dogs with dominance aggression, the addition of tryptophan to high-protein diets or change to a low-protein diet may reduce aggression. For dogs with territorial aggression, tryptophan supplementation of a low-protein diet may be helpful in reducing aggression.
Amino acids are found in proteins, and dogs, as carnivores, specifically need animal based proteins. Plant proteins lack some of the amino acids, which dogs, as carnivores specifically need. This includes l-taurine (for heart health), and l-carnitine (also for the heart and organ health). When dogs get a full complement of amino acids, it is not only calming to them, but helps support their organs, skin, coat, eyes and brain. Meat is also rich in B vitamins and minerals, including iron (which is lacking in plant based foods). Therefore, dogs, being carnivores, need high quality protein derived from animals to remain calm and keep blood glucose levels stable. In a process called glyconeogenesis, amino acids and fats are converted to glucose. When dogs are fed low amounts of animal based protein, they use carbohydrates for energy. But this type of energy is not consistent and the blood sugars fluctuate, by going up and then falling. This, in turn, creates mood swings. Creating glucose from animal based proteins and fats creates a stable blood sugar level, which keeps a dog calm and focused. Feeding a dog a diet high in carbohydrates, especially starches and grains, will simply create less focus and blood sugar spikes. Additionally, when carbohydrates are higher than 35% of the diet, they have the potential to protein starve the dog, in that the dog, being a carnivore, is not getting all the amino acids necessary to sustain and maintain healthy organs, brain function, and healthy coat and skin. Therefore, one of the reasons your dog may be acting hyperactive, unfocused and out of control may be the predominantly grain based kibble that you might be feeding him. Actually, grain based diet should never be fed to a dog. It can ruin his digestive system because it is not his natural diet. As mentioned previously, the biological and physiological basis of this is related to blood sugar levels. Not only do high carbohydrate diets lead to wild swings in blood sugar levels, they can lead to insulin resistance and the development of diabetes mellitus. If you look at it from an evolutionary perspective, dogs evolved from wolves. While they are not obligate carnivores, they consume only minimal quantity of grains, roots and fruits, usually in the form of the already partially digested paste and juices in the intestines of their prey. In the wild if you see wolves and dogs eating an herbivore prey that they have killed, you may notice they first go for the stomach area of the carcass. That is where they will find roots, fruits, grains, seeds, leaves and berries.
Fats are also a component needed for calmness. Not only is fat satiating (helps make a dog feel full) and helps ward off dehydration, but it also contains essential fatty acids, the most important of which is DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Research has shown dogs that display more aggressive tendencies have lower blood serum levels of DHA. It is important to give dogs animal based sources of DHA (such as fish oils), as dogs have difficultly converting the ALA found in plant based oils.
Other ingredients in dog food are suspected of causing aggressive behavior, but have not been extensively studied. Some experts suspect soy protein, which contains plant estrogens, may upset hormonal balances, thus causing hyperactivity and aggression. Some research has focused on the long-term effects of synthetic food colorants and preservatives on the physical and mental well-being of dogs. Feeding a high-quality dog food with few additives and natural preservatives alleviates some of these concerns. In conclusion, I would recommend a diet of highly bioavailable animal proteins, fat and Omega 3 fatty acids to help dogs remain calm and stable. While food and diet may certainly affect canine behavior, including aggression, merely changing the diet is only part of the solution. Enlist the help of a qualified trainer or behaviorist if you are concerned about your dog’s aggression.
Courtesy of http://www.animalmedcenter.com/news-and-press/article/the-influence-of-nutrition-on-aggression
Showing posts with label Health and Wellness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health and Wellness. Show all posts
September 10, 2012
August 29, 2012
Golden Retriever Uveitis
Our Brandan has GR Uveitis. It was diagnosed during a routine physical exam by out wonderful holistic vet who sent us on to an animal eye specialist to confirm her suspicions. Read more below about the condition.
Golden Retriever Uveitis:
Uveitis is defined as inflammation of the uveal tract, which includes the iris or “colored part of the eye”. There are many causes for uveitis including cancer, immune-mediated disease, cataracts, and certain infections. There is an inherited form of uveitis that occurs in the Golden Retriever breed. Golden Retriever Uveitis is a serious condition because it is chronic and can result in vision loss. One of the ways it can be such a threat to vision is by being such an insidious disease. Signs detectable to a pet owner can be limited to redness and minimal drainage so the disease can progress to an advanced stage before affected pets are presented to a veterinarian. In a large retrospective study, the mean age of affected dogs at the time of diagnosis was found to be 8.6 years (range 4.5-14.5 years). The majority of dogs are affected in both eyes. Some of the key features of this condition are pigment dispersion across the front surface of the lens and the presence of one or more uveal cysts within the eye. Fibrin (inflammatory material) is sometimes found within the eye and can be an ominous precursor for impending glaucoma. Glaucoma and cataract formation are the most common complications of the Golden Retriever (Pigmentary) Uveitis condition. If vision is lost from this disease, it is usually from one or both of these complications. In the retrospective study mentioned, 46% of dogs had glaucoma and 37% had cataracts. The cataracts that form with this condition are problematic because these are not the ideal candidates for cataract surgery. Glaucoma can rapidly (within days) cause permanent vision loss, is painful, and is not always controllable with medical therapy alone. Surgical options might need to be pursued. The prognosis for dogs affected with this condition is guarded. With early detection, consistent therapy, and regular monitoring, some affected dogs will go years without major complications and with maintenance of vision. But there are some dogs with more advanced forms or stages of the condition where it fails to respond to therapy and vision cannot be saved. The question is sometimes asked why any treatments or monitoring are necessary in an eye that has already lost vision. The reason is that a blind eye can still be a painful one. Glaucoma pain is commonly occult, meaning no outward signs of pain are exhibited. Golden Retrievers are notoriously bad about complaining that their eyes hurt. They are such good dogs! We know that these issues must be painful, at least in the majority of dogs, because of the positive changes in attitude/activity once uveitis and glaucoma are controlled. For the sake of your pet’s vision and comfort, it is critical that you contact us ASAP if you detect a sudden change in the appearance of your pet’s eye(s). Revised 9/20/07
Courtesy of Northwest Animal Eye Specialists http://www.peteyedoctor.com/1995324.html
Golden Retriever Uveitis:
Uveitis is defined as inflammation of the uveal tract, which includes the iris or “colored part of the eye”. There are many causes for uveitis including cancer, immune-mediated disease, cataracts, and certain infections. There is an inherited form of uveitis that occurs in the Golden Retriever breed. Golden Retriever Uveitis is a serious condition because it is chronic and can result in vision loss. One of the ways it can be such a threat to vision is by being such an insidious disease. Signs detectable to a pet owner can be limited to redness and minimal drainage so the disease can progress to an advanced stage before affected pets are presented to a veterinarian. In a large retrospective study, the mean age of affected dogs at the time of diagnosis was found to be 8.6 years (range 4.5-14.5 years). The majority of dogs are affected in both eyes. Some of the key features of this condition are pigment dispersion across the front surface of the lens and the presence of one or more uveal cysts within the eye. Fibrin (inflammatory material) is sometimes found within the eye and can be an ominous precursor for impending glaucoma. Glaucoma and cataract formation are the most common complications of the Golden Retriever (Pigmentary) Uveitis condition. If vision is lost from this disease, it is usually from one or both of these complications. In the retrospective study mentioned, 46% of dogs had glaucoma and 37% had cataracts. The cataracts that form with this condition are problematic because these are not the ideal candidates for cataract surgery. Glaucoma can rapidly (within days) cause permanent vision loss, is painful, and is not always controllable with medical therapy alone. Surgical options might need to be pursued. The prognosis for dogs affected with this condition is guarded. With early detection, consistent therapy, and regular monitoring, some affected dogs will go years without major complications and with maintenance of vision. But there are some dogs with more advanced forms or stages of the condition where it fails to respond to therapy and vision cannot be saved. The question is sometimes asked why any treatments or monitoring are necessary in an eye that has already lost vision. The reason is that a blind eye can still be a painful one. Glaucoma pain is commonly occult, meaning no outward signs of pain are exhibited. Golden Retrievers are notoriously bad about complaining that their eyes hurt. They are such good dogs! We know that these issues must be painful, at least in the majority of dogs, because of the positive changes in attitude/activity once uveitis and glaucoma are controlled. For the sake of your pet’s vision and comfort, it is critical that you contact us ASAP if you detect a sudden change in the appearance of your pet’s eye(s). Revised 9/20/07
Courtesy of Northwest Animal Eye Specialists http://www.peteyedoctor.com/1995324.html
April 24, 2012
Joint Support
Looking for a great joint supplement to add to your dog's diet? Nupro Joint Support is the best all around joint supplement I have found over the years. Available at most pet supply stores and online via wholesale pet supply stores and directly from the manufacturer at http://www.nuprostore.com/nuprojointsup.htm.
Not only good for joints on a preventative and maintanence level but also good for skin & coat, digestion, vitamin absorption, and more.
Nupro Joint Support contains glucosamine complex that helps maintain health and resiliency of connective tissues and restores the damaged cells of cartilage tissue. It's a rich source of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and essential fatty acids that help alleviate joint problems.
Not only good for joints on a preventative and maintanence level but also good for skin & coat, digestion, vitamin absorption, and more.
Nupro Joint Support contains glucosamine complex that helps maintain health and resiliency of connective tissues and restores the damaged cells of cartilage tissue. It's a rich source of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and essential fatty acids that help alleviate joint problems.
February 6, 2012
Decisions...decisions...
When faced with an emergency situation and you must make a life-changing decision quickly without much time for rationalization...what would you do?
Last week we found ourselves in this situation. After two weeks of visits to four different vets, one an emergency hospital on a Saturday and a second visit back to one of the four vets, we discovered that our beautiful Lola had a tumor in her small intestines that was blocking her ability to eat and go to the bathroom. The options were remove the tumor or put her to sleep pretty much immediately.
Our first response was of course to operate! We made sure that there were no visible signs of tumors in other organs including her lungs and after so many other vet visits and every imaginable test that came back perfect we thought why not. The problem was that the vet who found the tumor on the ultrasound didn't have staff that would stay over night, so we were referred to an emergency hospital about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. The dilemma...the cost of the surgery literally tripled. Now I believe in getting what you pay for. So it made perfect sense to me that because of their expertise, their certified staff, over night care, etc. that they have bills to pay and Lola would be in the best hands possible.
Without much thought we said "do it".
The surgeon called us after the suregery. He was able to take the large 10 cm tumor out which was causing the blockage; however he found smaller tumors that were not detected on either ultrasound that could not be removed because of their connection to a major artery. So here we stand waiting for the biopsy results with the sick feeling in our stomach that the cost of the surgery was only part of the total cost we will incur to give Lola the best chance at surviving whatever this is. Further treatment will be required.
If you were faced with vet costs of a minimum of $5000 and upwards cost of $8000, what would you do? How far would you go to save a beloved member of your family in an emergency situation with no guarantee of the end result? Please leave your comments below.
Last week we found ourselves in this situation. After two weeks of visits to four different vets, one an emergency hospital on a Saturday and a second visit back to one of the four vets, we discovered that our beautiful Lola had a tumor in her small intestines that was blocking her ability to eat and go to the bathroom. The options were remove the tumor or put her to sleep pretty much immediately.
Our first response was of course to operate! We made sure that there were no visible signs of tumors in other organs including her lungs and after so many other vet visits and every imaginable test that came back perfect we thought why not. The problem was that the vet who found the tumor on the ultrasound didn't have staff that would stay over night, so we were referred to an emergency hospital about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. The dilemma...the cost of the surgery literally tripled. Now I believe in getting what you pay for. So it made perfect sense to me that because of their expertise, their certified staff, over night care, etc. that they have bills to pay and Lola would be in the best hands possible.
Without much thought we said "do it".
The surgeon called us after the suregery. He was able to take the large 10 cm tumor out which was causing the blockage; however he found smaller tumors that were not detected on either ultrasound that could not be removed because of their connection to a major artery. So here we stand waiting for the biopsy results with the sick feeling in our stomach that the cost of the surgery was only part of the total cost we will incur to give Lola the best chance at surviving whatever this is. Further treatment will be required.
If you were faced with vet costs of a minimum of $5000 and upwards cost of $8000, what would you do? How far would you go to save a beloved member of your family in an emergency situation with no guarantee of the end result? Please leave your comments below.
August 25, 2011
Aromatherapy for Animals Conference Call
FREE Conference call for everyone who shares their lives with animals!
This will be an introduction to using therapeutic-grade essential oils on your pets. This info will be useful for animal guardians, veterinarians, vet techs, groomers, pet sitters, trainers, healers, etc.
Tuesday, September 6th
8:00 - 9:00 pm EST
Dial-in # 605.477.2100
Access code: 459443#
Please let me know if you plan to join us & email me one topic of interest related to animal health & wellness that you would like to hear about on the call
There will be some time at the end of the call for Q&A
Please note: long distance rates will apply to your phone bill.
This will be an introduction to using therapeutic-grade essential oils on your pets. This info will be useful for animal guardians, veterinarians, vet techs, groomers, pet sitters, trainers, healers, etc.
Tuesday, September 6th
8:00 - 9:00 pm EST
Dial-in # 605.477.2100
Access code: 459443#
Please let me know if you plan to join us & email me one topic of interest related to animal health & wellness that you would like to hear about on the call
There will be some time at the end of the call for Q&A
Please note: long distance rates will apply to your phone bill.
May 15, 2011
Natural Flea & Tick Protection
Are you sick of using chemicals on your pet to keep those pesky insects away?
There is an alternative! Therapeutic-grade essential oils are a safe & effective way to keep fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, gnats, ants, and many other insects away from your pet, your family, and even your home & garden.
Poisons on Pets is an 84 page document from the NRDC about the potential hazards of commercial flea & tick products. Anyone who plans to use these products should definitely read this report first.
Young Living Essential Oils offers many essential oils that have insect repellent properties. I create my own formula that works well for my dogs. I start with Purification, a blend that has Citronella in it. Then I add Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemongrass.
Eucalyptus-Globulus and Geranium are other oils that compliment this blend or can be used in place of.
There is an alternative! Therapeutic-grade essential oils are a safe & effective way to keep fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, gnats, ants, and many other insects away from your pet, your family, and even your home & garden.
Poisons on Pets is an 84 page document from the NRDC about the potential hazards of commercial flea & tick products. Anyone who plans to use these products should definitely read this report first.
Young Living Essential Oils offers many essential oils that have insect repellent properties. I create my own formula that works well for my dogs. I start with Purification, a blend that has Citronella in it. Then I add Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemongrass.
Eucalyptus-Globulus and Geranium are other oils that compliment this blend or can be used in place of.
Seasonal Allergy Relief
According to the news last week, pollen counts were over 5000 which is making even the strongest prescription allergy medications ineffective.
Some are saying this is the worse allergy season yet. People who have never been effected before are sneezing, coughing, & have itchy eyes. The pollen is making it more difficult than usual for people suffering from asthma as well.
Dogs suffer from allergies too! Some symptoms present themselves as itchy, dry, red skin. Dogs tend to lick, chew, and scratch almost obsessively to relieve the discomfort.
Why not opt for an all-natural option that does not leave you feeling drowsy? Young Living's therapeutic-grade Lavender essential oil is a natural anti-histamine among other things. Not only is this lavender great for burns, cuts, bee stings, calming, relaxation, and inflammation, it is also great for allergy relief.
If I wake up with allergy symptoms I reach for my lavender essential oil & put 2-3 drops in an empty vegetarian capsule, take internally, and I am good to go all day. Young Living's Lavender can be given to dogs internally or topically to dogs.
For asthma sufferers, R.C. rubbed on the chest or over the lung vita flex point on the feet is very helpful as is Breathe Again roll-on.
Some are saying this is the worse allergy season yet. People who have never been effected before are sneezing, coughing, & have itchy eyes. The pollen is making it more difficult than usual for people suffering from asthma as well.
Dogs suffer from allergies too! Some symptoms present themselves as itchy, dry, red skin. Dogs tend to lick, chew, and scratch almost obsessively to relieve the discomfort.
Why not opt for an all-natural option that does not leave you feeling drowsy? Young Living's therapeutic-grade Lavender essential oil is a natural anti-histamine among other things. Not only is this lavender great for burns, cuts, bee stings, calming, relaxation, and inflammation, it is also great for allergy relief.
If I wake up with allergy symptoms I reach for my lavender essential oil & put 2-3 drops in an empty vegetarian capsule, take internally, and I am good to go all day. Young Living's Lavender can be given to dogs internally or topically to dogs.
For asthma sufferers, R.C. rubbed on the chest or over the lung vita flex point on the feet is very helpful as is Breathe Again roll-on.
March 12, 2011
Sussex County Dog Walking Group
Looking for a Fun Activity to do with your Dog?
Is your dog driving your crazy because he is not getting enough exercise?
Then this group is for YOU!!!
We will meet once a week at one of our beautiful recreation areas in Sussex County, NJ including fun trails, waterfalls, lakes, & rivers!
Dogs of all ages & breeds are welcome!
This is a great way to get in shape, meet other dog lovers, socialize young puppies, and enjoy nature!
Reactive dogs are also welcome. I will help you manage the reactivity level so that everyone is comfortable especially the dogs!
Training suggestions will be offered during the walk!
Sign up at
Sussex County Dog Walking Group
Is your dog driving your crazy because he is not getting enough exercise?
Then this group is for YOU!!!
We will meet once a week at one of our beautiful recreation areas in Sussex County, NJ including fun trails, waterfalls, lakes, & rivers!
Dogs of all ages & breeds are welcome!
This is a great way to get in shape, meet other dog lovers, socialize young puppies, and enjoy nature!
Reactive dogs are also welcome. I will help you manage the reactivity level so that everyone is comfortable especially the dogs!
Training suggestions will be offered during the walk!
Sign up at
Sussex County Dog Walking Group
October 31, 2010
Raindrop Technique
The Raindrop Technique is a method of using Vita Flex, reflexology, massage techniques, etc., and therapeutic-grade essential oils applied on various locations of the body to bring it structural and electrical alignment. It is designed to bring balance to the body with its relaxing and mild application. It will help align the energy centers of the body and release them if blocked, without using hard pressure or trying to force the body to change.
D. Gary Young developed the Raindrop Technique based on his research with essentail oils as antimicrobial agents and his knowledge of th Vita Flex technique and its reflex points in the feed, and finally the knowledge he learned from the Lakota people of South Dakota using finger stroking and feathering techniques and the effects on the muscles and the nervous system.
There is an original technique that uses 7 to 9 therapeutic-grade essential oils (many of which are "hot" oils) and there is also a protocol for Parkinson's Disease which can be used for those with MS, Chronic Fatigue, Lou Gehrig's Diesease, etc. The Raindrop Technique can be customized with other oils based on what you are trying to accomplish. Raindrop Technique is also great for anyone suffering from Lyme's Disease!
Along with humans, the Raindrop Technique has been used successfully with dogs & horses. I have done several on my own dogs and look forward to working on some rescue horses in the near future.
For more information about how to perform the Raindrop Technique on your dog, please email me.
D. Gary Young developed the Raindrop Technique based on his research with essentail oils as antimicrobial agents and his knowledge of th Vita Flex technique and its reflex points in the feed, and finally the knowledge he learned from the Lakota people of South Dakota using finger stroking and feathering techniques and the effects on the muscles and the nervous system.
There is an original technique that uses 7 to 9 therapeutic-grade essential oils (many of which are "hot" oils) and there is also a protocol for Parkinson's Disease which can be used for those with MS, Chronic Fatigue, Lou Gehrig's Diesease, etc. The Raindrop Technique can be customized with other oils based on what you are trying to accomplish. Raindrop Technique is also great for anyone suffering from Lyme's Disease!
Along with humans, the Raindrop Technique has been used successfully with dogs & horses. I have done several on my own dogs and look forward to working on some rescue horses in the near future.
For more information about how to perform the Raindrop Technique on your dog, please email me.
August 20, 2010
Free Essential 7 Kit - Only 2 Weeks Left!!!
Earn a Free Essential 7™ Essential Oil Collection
This August, get all the benefits of the on-the-go Essential 7™ collection for free! Containing Lavender Essential Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil, Lemon Essential Oil, Joy™ Essential Oil, PanAway® Essential Oil, Peace & Calming® Essential Oil, and Purification™ Essential Oil. This take-anywhere kit is the perfect kit for every home and every body!To qualify for your free Essential 7 kit, place a single order of 195 PV* or more August 1st - September 15th, 2010 and you’ll receive an Essential 7 collection—a retail value of $91!
Everyday Uses:
Rub Lavender Essential Oil on the soles of your feet to rest peacefully.
Inhale Peace & Calming Essential Oil when you want to feel relaxed.
Apply Peppermint Essential Oil to help soothe sore muscles.
Use Purification Esential Oil blend to soothe insect bites, cuts, and scrapes.
If you are not already a member and would like to take advantage of this amazing offer, please email me or visit my website for more information http://www.creatingharmony.vibrantscents.com/.
This August, get all the benefits of the on-the-go Essential 7™ collection for free! Containing Lavender Essential Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil, Lemon Essential Oil, Joy™ Essential Oil, PanAway® Essential Oil, Peace & Calming® Essential Oil, and Purification™ Essential Oil. This take-anywhere kit is the perfect kit for every home and every body!To qualify for your free Essential 7 kit, place a single order of 195 PV* or more August 1st - September 15th, 2010 and you’ll receive an Essential 7 collection—a retail value of $91!
Everyday Uses:
Rub Lavender Essential Oil on the soles of your feet to rest peacefully.
Inhale Peace & Calming Essential Oil when you want to feel relaxed.
Apply Peppermint Essential Oil to help soothe sore muscles.
Use Purification Esential Oil blend to soothe insect bites, cuts, and scrapes.
If you are not already a member and would like to take advantage of this amazing offer, please email me or visit my website for more information http://www.creatingharmony.vibrantscents.com/.
August 12, 2010
Dog Food Dilemma
As a vegetarian & health-conscious consumer, I have choosen to remove meat from my diet. I carefully select the meat & poultry that my family eats, even though it is not very frequent. With 5 large & extra large dogs who eat meat everyday, twice a day it is not as easy from an economic standpoint to buy only the best organic or free-range beef & chicken. So today as I was doing my food shopping I resorted to buy the no name chicken breasts that were on sale. The breasts were huge!!! What does this mean...well I'm getting more for my money, but on the other hand this means the poor chickens were fed grain to increase their weight at a ridculous rate making it difficult if not impossible for their little legs to hold them up. They are also likely to have come from a farm where they are kept in battery cages & have their toes & beaks clipped to reduce the possiblity of them injurying other birds due to there close & stressful living quarters.
I know I must feed my dogs a species-appropriate diet and that even non-organic chicken is better for them than processed kibble, I morally feel as if I have done something horribly wrong. I have supported the cruelty that large farms guarantee. This is the dilemma I face everytime I go to the food store. For more info into what factory farms are really like I recommend watching Food Inc., a food documentary not only about farms that raise animals, but vegetables, fruit, and grain as well.
I know I must feed my dogs a species-appropriate diet and that even non-organic chicken is better for them than processed kibble, I morally feel as if I have done something horribly wrong. I have supported the cruelty that large farms guarantee. This is the dilemma I face everytime I go to the food store. For more info into what factory farms are really like I recommend watching Food Inc., a food documentary not only about farms that raise animals, but vegetables, fruit, and grain as well.
August 8, 2010
Save 10% on Harmony Essential Oil This Month!!!
Get 10% off all purchases of Harmony Essential Oil blend from August 1-31st. Harmony Essential Oil promotes physical and emotional well-being by bringing harmonic balance to the energy centers of the body. The liberating, balancing, and calming essential oils in this blend open us to new possibilities while contributing to an overall feeling of well-being.
To order Harmony Essential Oil and take advantage of the 10% savings, go to http://creatingharmony.vibrantscents.com/.
April 29, 2010
Essential Oil Gathering Sunday, May 2nd
I will be hosting my monthly essential oils gathering this Sunday, May 2nd at 12:00 noon. All are welcome. This month's topics that will be covered include seasonal allergy relief, natural flea & tick prevention & spring cleaning without the use of chemicals.
Imagine having a bottle of cleaning solution that is good for just about everything and doesn't come with a poison control warning on the label!
Please RSVP via email if you plan to attend.
Imagine having a bottle of cleaning solution that is good for just about everything and doesn't come with a poison control warning on the label!
Please RSVP via email if you plan to attend.
April 19, 2010
The Use of Essential Oils in Dog Health & Behavior
I will be giving a presentation on May 1st from 10:00-12:00 at It's Your Dog Training facility in Hamburg, NJ. I will be covering flea & tick preventative, pain management, anixiety & stress relief as well as reducing fear-related behaviors. Pre-registration required at http://www.pawsinharmonyllc.com/. Hope to see you there!
April 11, 2010
Food for Thought
This is how I manage to feed 5 dogs with good appetites a healthy and as close-to-nature diet as possible without spending thousands of dollars a month. I used to feed commercial raw exclusively when we had 3 dogs & business was better. Now with 5 dogs ranging between 70 - 200 lbs, I can't possibly afford to spend $600+ a month on food. So I am cheating by adding a grain-free kibble to the mix and buying chicken in bulk & on sale when I can find it.
First Ingredient:
Second Ingredient:
First Ingredient:
Second Ingredient:Nature's Variety offers some "exotic" meats which work well for Tyson who can't eat the usual chicken, turkey or beef. He likes venison, rabbit & buffalo. Boss also can't eat chicken, so he is also eating Nature's Variety.
Third Ingredient:
This is one of the best joint supplements on the market (that I have tried). Boss literally can not walk if he has been off of this powder for more than three days. Aside from joint support it is full of antioxidants & probiotics. Good stuff!
Everyone else enjoys chicken breasts and/or thighs (boneless & skinless) and some beef liver. Because I can't afford organic meats & poultry right now, I boil the chicken & liver in a pot of water just long enough to cook the outside (about 5-8 minutes).
Then I put it in the food processor and shred / chop everything up in a jiffy.
Third Ingredient:This is one of the best joint supplements on the market (that I have tried). Boss literally can not walk if he has been off of this powder for more than three days. Aside from joint support it is full of antioxidants & probiotics. Good stuff!
April 6, 2010
Rise in Canine Cancer
Visit MARCI Magazine for my latest article on Canine Cancer on page 61-62. Click on the Spring 2010 edition. This magazine has amazing articles and is full of valuable information. Enjoy!
March 27, 2010
More Pets Injured by Flea & Tick Products
EPA: More pets injured by flea and tick products
MATTHEW DALY
From Associated Press
March 18, 2010 12:52 AM EDT
WASHINGTON (AP) - Products intended to treat cats and dogs for fleas and ticks kill hundreds of pets each year and injure tens of thousands, the Environmental Protection Agency said Wednesday as it outlined plans to make the products safer.The EPA said it will develop stricter testing and evaluation requirements for flea and tick treatments that are applied to a pet's skin. The agency also will begin reviewing labels to determine which ones need to say more clearly how to use the products.The EPA's effort follows increasing complaints from pet owners that the "spot-on" products have triggered reactions in dogs and cats, ranging from skin irritation to neurological problems to deaths. Cats and small dogs appear particularly vulnerable, the EPA said, especially when given products intended for larger animals.Steve Owens, assistant administrator of EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, said new restrictions will be placed on flea and tick products, with additional changes for specific products likely — including possible changes in some product formulas."These are poisons," Owens said. "These are products designed to kill fleas and ticks — and they do their jobs."The EPA is committed to better protecting the health and safety of pets and families, Owens said, but added that pet owners "need to carefully read and follow all labeling before exposing your pet to a pesticide."The agency announced last April it was increasing scrutiny of topical flea and tick products because of the growing number of bad reactions reported.The EPA said it received 44,263 reports of harmful reactions associated with topical flea and tick products in 2008, up from 28,895 in 2007. Reactions ranged from skin irritations to vomiting to seizures to, in about 600 cases, death of an animal.An EPA spokesman said he did not have a breakdown of how many deaths were dogs and how many cats.Dog and cat owners say their pets have suffered burns and welts on their skin; started to drool excessively; begun to shake uncontrollably; lost control of their legs or experienced other neurological problems after using the flea and tick treatments.A 2009 study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reported that the majority of illnesses linked to proper use of topical flea and tick products were mild. Cats were more susceptible than dogs to illnesses and deaths from misuse of the products, the report said."The important take-home message is that although adverse reactions can occur with all flea and tick products, most effects are relatively mild and include skin irritation and stomach upset," said Dr. Steven Hansen, ASPCA veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president for animal health services.Pet owners should keep using the products as directed when faced with a flea infestation, Hansen said.Georgia-based Merial Ltd., which makes the popular Frontline tick and flea treatment, defended its product and disputed the EPA data."The number of adverse events reported for Frontline has remained consistently low since the product's introduction in 1996," the company said in a statement e-mailed to reporters. The vast majority of reactions are minor, the statement said.In a 29-page report, the EPA said the majority of problems for dogs occurred in smaller dogs, weighing 10 to 20 pounds. Some incidents occurred when products intended for larger dogs were given to smaller animals, the report said. Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, miniature poodles, Pomeranians and dachshunds were among breeds where problems occurred the most, the EPA said.Similarly, many problems for cats occurred when they were given treatments intended for dogs. The EPA is likely to require companies to revamp labels to clarify that products intended for dogs should never be used on cats, Owens said.
On the Net:EPA report on protecting pets: www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/pets.htm
MATTHEW DALY
From Associated Press
March 18, 2010 12:52 AM EDT
WASHINGTON (AP) - Products intended to treat cats and dogs for fleas and ticks kill hundreds of pets each year and injure tens of thousands, the Environmental Protection Agency said Wednesday as it outlined plans to make the products safer.The EPA said it will develop stricter testing and evaluation requirements for flea and tick treatments that are applied to a pet's skin. The agency also will begin reviewing labels to determine which ones need to say more clearly how to use the products.The EPA's effort follows increasing complaints from pet owners that the "spot-on" products have triggered reactions in dogs and cats, ranging from skin irritation to neurological problems to deaths. Cats and small dogs appear particularly vulnerable, the EPA said, especially when given products intended for larger animals.Steve Owens, assistant administrator of EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, said new restrictions will be placed on flea and tick products, with additional changes for specific products likely — including possible changes in some product formulas."These are poisons," Owens said. "These are products designed to kill fleas and ticks — and they do their jobs."The EPA is committed to better protecting the health and safety of pets and families, Owens said, but added that pet owners "need to carefully read and follow all labeling before exposing your pet to a pesticide."The agency announced last April it was increasing scrutiny of topical flea and tick products because of the growing number of bad reactions reported.The EPA said it received 44,263 reports of harmful reactions associated with topical flea and tick products in 2008, up from 28,895 in 2007. Reactions ranged from skin irritations to vomiting to seizures to, in about 600 cases, death of an animal.An EPA spokesman said he did not have a breakdown of how many deaths were dogs and how many cats.Dog and cat owners say their pets have suffered burns and welts on their skin; started to drool excessively; begun to shake uncontrollably; lost control of their legs or experienced other neurological problems after using the flea and tick treatments.A 2009 study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reported that the majority of illnesses linked to proper use of topical flea and tick products were mild. Cats were more susceptible than dogs to illnesses and deaths from misuse of the products, the report said."The important take-home message is that although adverse reactions can occur with all flea and tick products, most effects are relatively mild and include skin irritation and stomach upset," said Dr. Steven Hansen, ASPCA veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president for animal health services.Pet owners should keep using the products as directed when faced with a flea infestation, Hansen said.Georgia-based Merial Ltd., which makes the popular Frontline tick and flea treatment, defended its product and disputed the EPA data."The number of adverse events reported for Frontline has remained consistently low since the product's introduction in 1996," the company said in a statement e-mailed to reporters. The vast majority of reactions are minor, the statement said.In a 29-page report, the EPA said the majority of problems for dogs occurred in smaller dogs, weighing 10 to 20 pounds. Some incidents occurred when products intended for larger dogs were given to smaller animals, the report said. Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, miniature poodles, Pomeranians and dachshunds were among breeds where problems occurred the most, the EPA said.Similarly, many problems for cats occurred when they were given treatments intended for dogs. The EPA is likely to require companies to revamp labels to clarify that products intended for dogs should never be used on cats, Owens said.
On the Net:EPA report on protecting pets: www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/pets.htm
March 22, 2010
Why You Shouldn't Buy Products Tested on Animals...
Have you ever considered the pain and suffering the products you use on a daily basis cause to helpless animals?
I used to think that laboratories only used mice & monkeys to test their products on...but I was mistaken. Dogs are stolen from their front yards and picked up along road sides not to mention those from county pounds that are purchased for $10-$25 by class B dealers and sent to the lab for all kinds of nasty testing. Recently there was an article on MSNBC.com that brought attention to missing family dogs that were found in a university lab in South America. Years ago I read how Tufts University Veterinary School broke the legs of live and conscious dogs to learn how to reset a fresh break only to later euthanize the dogs. Can you imagine inflicting that kind of pain on a voiceless animal intentionally? I can't! I don't see any difference between that torture and the torture caused by serial killers to their animal victims. I understand there is a need for medical research...but it doesn't have to be done to those who can't speak for themselves, those that can't say "no", those who were once a beloved pet and are now nothing more than a test subject with a number. I refuse to buy any products (makeup, shampoo, lotion, medication, cleaning products, etc. that are tested on animals. Young Living Essential Oils tests their products on people...human beings who have a voice and consent to the test they undergo. More companies should be so honorable & conscientious.
Be sure to check out your dog & cat food manufacturers as well...there are some pretty scary undercover videos taken inside the Iams laboratory.
I used to think that laboratories only used mice & monkeys to test their products on...but I was mistaken. Dogs are stolen from their front yards and picked up along road sides not to mention those from county pounds that are purchased for $10-$25 by class B dealers and sent to the lab for all kinds of nasty testing. Recently there was an article on MSNBC.com that brought attention to missing family dogs that were found in a university lab in South America. Years ago I read how Tufts University Veterinary School broke the legs of live and conscious dogs to learn how to reset a fresh break only to later euthanize the dogs. Can you imagine inflicting that kind of pain on a voiceless animal intentionally? I can't! I don't see any difference between that torture and the torture caused by serial killers to their animal victims. I understand there is a need for medical research...but it doesn't have to be done to those who can't speak for themselves, those that can't say "no", those who were once a beloved pet and are now nothing more than a test subject with a number. I refuse to buy any products (makeup, shampoo, lotion, medication, cleaning products, etc. that are tested on animals. Young Living Essential Oils tests their products on people...human beings who have a voice and consent to the test they undergo. More companies should be so honorable & conscientious.
Be sure to check out your dog & cat food manufacturers as well...there are some pretty scary undercover videos taken inside the Iams laboratory.
February 26, 2010
To Neuter or Not To Neuter....That is the Question
It's cuter to neuter! There are tons of catchy pro-neutering ads out there to help support the control of the animal population. I was raised believing that you neutered your dog when he was 6 months old unless you were a breeder. When I got involved in dog rescue it was the norm to neuter all dogs prior to adoption even if it were a small puppy. I have always thought this to be the "right" thing to do.
A couple weeks ago I was doing some research for an article I was writing and I came across some statistics that scared the hell out of me. While it is true that female dogs are more likely to develop mammary cancer if they are not spayed before their first heat, female Rottweilers are 3 times more likely to develop bone cancer if they are spayed before the age of one year. A male Rottweiler's chance of developing bone cancer increases by 4 times if neutered before the age of one year. It is similar to the result of a woman going through menopause and losing estrogen which contributes to osteoporosis (weakening of the bones), so why would it be any different for a dog? This lead me to start asking breeders & vets what their professional opinions are. One woman who has been breeding Rotties for 20 something years said to hold off as long as you can. She said one should not neuter before one year unless absolutely necessary due to temperament. My vet highlighted how unnatural it is to neuter an animal. There are many health concerns associated with neutering. Even the simple act of putting a dog under anesthesia can be life threatening. One of my best friends lost her Pug when he was administered too much anaesthesia during his planned neutering visit at the vet.
Now I am trying to figure out what to do. Tucker is about 8 months old. Due to his desire to be the leader and his constant pestering of our Lola I feel it would be best behaviorally to have him neutered. On the other hand...losing one Rottweiler to bone cancer is quite enough. I can't imagine doing something that could knowingly increase the chances of that happening again.
What are you thoughts?
A couple weeks ago I was doing some research for an article I was writing and I came across some statistics that scared the hell out of me. While it is true that female dogs are more likely to develop mammary cancer if they are not spayed before their first heat, female Rottweilers are 3 times more likely to develop bone cancer if they are spayed before the age of one year. A male Rottweiler's chance of developing bone cancer increases by 4 times if neutered before the age of one year. It is similar to the result of a woman going through menopause and losing estrogen which contributes to osteoporosis (weakening of the bones), so why would it be any different for a dog? This lead me to start asking breeders & vets what their professional opinions are. One woman who has been breeding Rotties for 20 something years said to hold off as long as you can. She said one should not neuter before one year unless absolutely necessary due to temperament. My vet highlighted how unnatural it is to neuter an animal. There are many health concerns associated with neutering. Even the simple act of putting a dog under anesthesia can be life threatening. One of my best friends lost her Pug when he was administered too much anaesthesia during his planned neutering visit at the vet.
Now I am trying to figure out what to do. Tucker is about 8 months old. Due to his desire to be the leader and his constant pestering of our Lola I feel it would be best behaviorally to have him neutered. On the other hand...losing one Rottweiler to bone cancer is quite enough. I can't imagine doing something that could knowingly increase the chances of that happening again.
What are you thoughts?
February 6, 2010
Ozone Therapy
I just set up my new ozone machine! For those of you not familiar, ozone is a magical element.
Ozone therapy has been practiced in Europe for over 50 years with over 10,000 practicing physicians. In the U.S. Ozone therapy is only taught in naturopathic schools. Ozone will kill just about anything bad including bacteria, parasites and maybe even cancer because cancer can not live in where there is high concentrations of oxygen.
This morning I did a test with each of the dogs...I offered them water in their usual water bowl in the usual location and then I offered them a bowl with the ozone water. 4 out of 4 chose the ozone water. Boss wasn't interested in drinking either. Then I switched the locations and Tucker began to drink from the bowl with the tap water in the location where the ozone water had previously been. He stopped immediately and began to walk away so I showed him the other bowl with the ozone water in the new location and he drank the entire bowl.
I have had an ozone air purifier for years to kill bacteria in the air and now I'm using it to purify my water for drinking (for the dogs & family) and to cleanse my fruit and veggies when I can't find organic to rid them of those nasty pesticides on the skins as well as cleaning the raw meat that I feed the dogs. I'll post again with more uses...
Ozone therapy has been practiced in Europe for over 50 years with over 10,000 practicing physicians. In the U.S. Ozone therapy is only taught in naturopathic schools. Ozone will kill just about anything bad including bacteria, parasites and maybe even cancer because cancer can not live in where there is high concentrations of oxygen.
This morning I did a test with each of the dogs...I offered them water in their usual water bowl in the usual location and then I offered them a bowl with the ozone water. 4 out of 4 chose the ozone water. Boss wasn't interested in drinking either. Then I switched the locations and Tucker began to drink from the bowl with the tap water in the location where the ozone water had previously been. He stopped immediately and began to walk away so I showed him the other bowl with the ozone water in the new location and he drank the entire bowl.
I have had an ozone air purifier for years to kill bacteria in the air and now I'm using it to purify my water for drinking (for the dogs & family) and to cleanse my fruit and veggies when I can't find organic to rid them of those nasty pesticides on the skins as well as cleaning the raw meat that I feed the dogs. I'll post again with more uses...
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