editorspage

Holistic Health
At the start of a New Year, health is usually at the top of peoples minds. Most of us take this time of the year to start a new diet, change an unhealthy lifestyle, or get an annual wellness check-up. Our pets should be no different, of course. Now is the ideal time for a visit to the vet to get your furbaby checked thoroughly from head to tail. Going to the veterinarian should not be done only when your pet gets sick. Even if your dog or cat seems perfectly fine, a general check-up is of utmost importance for his well-being and longevity. At the very least, vaccinations should be updated. At most, if youve been a good pet parent and having this done annually, a quick cross-reference of this years results versus last years results will help pinpoint any health anomalies. So schedule a visit to your vet soonest, and dont forget to read through the article on Page 8 before you go! Holistic or alternative healthcare is becoming more commonly practiced in developed countries such as the United States. Instead of bombarding the pet with medicine at the outset, holistic veterinary practitioners focus on alternative therapies such as homeopathy, herbs, chiropractic, and acupuncture to treat illnesses. Here in the Philippines though, holistic veterinarians are quite rare as most vets still take the conventional veterinary approach. As informed pet parents, we can take the lead in making sure our furbabies get the best of both worlds by taking an integrative approach that combines both conventional and alternative. For example, if you can do without strong anti-flea and tick pesticides, try using natural flea and tick repellents instead. I only use Neem Protect Spray from Bow & Wow before I take my furbaby out for a walk, and dont give him a regular dose of anti-flea and tick treatments anymore. I also ban the use of strong chemicals like Baygon or Lysol to lessen the toxic load in our home. Always, always, always, feed a good, all-natural diet, and be strict with food choices as how you would feed your own baby or toddler. Lastly, never wait until your pet gets seriously sick before doing something about it. Often, minor problems like tear stains, skin problems, or bad breath are simply a sign that there is something wrong and a simple change in diet or lifestyle just might do the trick. Before I go, Id like to rave about the gorgeous cover photo we have for this issue, shot on location in Tagaytay by uber-talented pet photographer Denise Lumbad. Furbabies Duke of Jun and Vanessa Matsunaga-Sunga and Coco of Arcille Natividad enjoyed a fun-filled day frolicking in the outdoors and basking in the sunshine, resulting to these amazing photographs. If youd like to see your own furbaby on the cover of our magazine, join our Furbaby of the Month photo contest. Log on to our website for more details. Hope to see your furbaby there! Happy Pet Parenting,

to transform pet owners into pet parents

our vision

We believe dogs and cats must have the best nutrition and health care available. We believe dogs and cats are not toys for our amusement; they have feelings, they are very loyal and they need our tender loving care. We believe the best way to acquire new pets is through pet adoption from the animal shelters. We are against selling dogs and cats in pet shops which involves prolonged confinement in small cages. We are against all forms of animal cruelty including chaining and caging dogs. We support the good work of organizations like Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion & Responsibilities for Animals (CARA), and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

our values

editorial staff
Christian Tan
president publisher

Romy Sia Pam So-Suarez

editor-in-chief

circulation manager editorial assistant

Yanni Cardeo Lou Bootan

Ronald Cruz
layout & design

Sky Printing
printer directory
Level 5, Shangri-La Plazal Mall, EDSA Mandaluyong City (632) 638-3372 Lower Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City (632) 501-3680 Robinsons Magnolia, New Manila, Quezon City SOON TO OPEN

Pam So-Suarez pssuarez@bowandwow.com.ph

We digest it for pet parents... The Bow & Wow Times tracks all relevant pet information from key websites, magazines, journals, animal research and studies, and other credible sources. Then we summarize what is essential for you to know in order to raise healthy and happy pets, and become the best pet parents you can be.The Bow & Wow Times is in no way intended to replace the knowledge and/or diagnoses of veterinary professionals. Always consult with your veterinarian whenever a health problem arises which requires expert care.

The Bow & Wow Times is a quarterly publication of the Healthy Options Group of Companies with corporate offices located at #3 Economia Street corner Calle Industria, Barangay Bagumbayan, Libis, Quezon City, 1110 and trunk line of (632)637-8888. For subscription inquiries, visit any of our stores listed above.

Issue No.14

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Principles of Holistic Health for Pets

Health is something which most of us humans and pet owners take for granted until something goes wrong. Many of us fail to see the longer term connection between diet and health. In modern society, hospitals are groaning with people suffering from degenerative diseases, resulting largely from eating highly processed foods and living an unhealthy lifestyle. Veterinary hospitals are no different. Animals also suffer from disease and sickness, just as humans do. Conventional veterinary medicine approaches animal health care with vaccines and medicines that treat symptoms of a health problem. Holistic health care, on the other hand, is an alternative approach which treats the whole animal and not just symptoms of a disease using changes in nutrition, vitamins and minerals, as well as homeopathy remedies. Holistic health care focuses on prevention of illness and the use of non-toxic, natural therapies. Holistic health also focuses on the entire pet, not just on one particular body part, function, or symptom.

4 Main Principles of Holistic Health for Pets:

The healing power of nature: The body has considerable power to heal itself. You only have to consider minor cuts and bruises or a tooth removed at the dentist, they heal themselves given time. The role of holistic healthcare is to facilitate and enhance the bodys own healing process, preferably with natural, non-toxic therapies. View your pet as a whole: Your pet should be looked upon as a complex interaction of mind, body, and spirit functioning in the environment. Thus, the environment your pet is exposed to can greatly influence all 3 of the other aspects. Identify and treat the cause: When the body is injured or diseased, it manifests itself as symptoms and can be equated to that of ripples in a pool that spread outward after a stone has been thrown inthe symptoms are the energy of disturbance spreading

Principles of Holisitc Health for Pets

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across the body. Symptoms are also an expression of the bodys attempt to heal, thus at all times we should seek to find the underlying cause rather than simply suppress the symptoms. Prevention is better than cure: This is best accomplished through dietary and lifestyle habits that support health and prevent disease. The pet owner, together with the holistic practitioner in some cases, must take responsibility for the pets health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, feeding a good diet, and providing a good social environment.

In holistic health, knowing the real cause of an animals pain, disease, or sickness can help determine the appropriate treatment or therapy. The following are some of the common causes of animal health problems: Heredity Impaired organ function, immune responses or an animals poor coping skills may be the result of a defective genetic code obtained from its parents. Environmental toxins Chemicals found in food, water and air may affect the animals metabolism, causing illness or disease. Physical trauma Trauma to any part of the body, especially the head, affects the natural flow of chi or life force, which deprives the body of much needed energy for good health. Chronic stress Animals also suffer from stress just as humans do. Chronic stress may arise from constant exposure to emotional and physical illness, and toxins. When a pet is seriously ill, a combination of conventional and holistic approaches may work well. But while your pet is strong and healthy, the only way to help him or her live longer and live the best life possible is by adopting a healthy lifestyle from inside and out.

A Look at Pet Lifestyles

A non-holistic lifestyle
1. 2. 3. 4. Commercial pet food Little to no exercise Pill/medicine for every ailment Wait till youre sick to see the vet

A holistic lifestyle
1. 2. 3. 4. All-natural and/or organic food Regular exercise routine Supplements for optimum health Prevention is the best cure treatment

Early Warning Signs on your Pets Health

Pets immune systems are particularly vulnerable to nutritional imbalances and tend to show signs much earlier than say heart or joint problems. Very often, dogs and cats coats and eyes very reflect the state of their health. Inadequate nutrition, poor quality ingredients, lack of exercise, or environmental stress may produce abnormal hair loss, frequent scratching, and a dull coat. The following signs are the easiest to see and recognize: Itchy Skin Scratching Eczema Hot Spots Hair Loss / Shedding Waxy Ears Runny Eyes Tooth Tartar Bad Breath Body Odour Incessant Chewing Anal Gland Problems Digestive Upsets Eating Grass, or other items Hyperactivity Loss of Energy / Lethargy

These signs are indicating that waste or toxic matter has been accumulating in the pets body and that the immune system is attempting to get rid of them. It is not uncommon for a range of these signs or ripples to be seen at one time.

Sources: huddersfieldk9training.co.uk, naturaltherapypages.co.uk and etherealenigma.hubpages.com

Principles of Holisitc Health for Pets

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Are Our Homes a Toxic Environment?

By Peter Lopatin

The danger posed by toxic chemicals in the environment has been a widely recognized and extensively studied public health issue for decades. But only recently have the possible effects of these chemicals on pet health been seriously studied.

A New Report Raises New Concerns

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a Washington D.C.-based non-profit research organization, recently issued the results of what it describes as the most comprehensive investigation of the chemical body burden of companion animals conducted to date. In the study, 23 dogs and 37 cats were tested for the presence of 70 industrial chemicals. The report provides important information on the extent of potentially dangerous chemical exposure in pets. These were some of its findings: The animals tested showed contamination with 48 of the 70 chemicals tested. 43 of the chemicals were found at levels higher than those typically found in people. Blood and urine samples taken from the dogs studied were found to be contaminated with 35 chemicals, including 11 carcinogens, 31 chemicals toxic to the reproductive system, and 24 neurotoxins. Samples from the cats contained 46 chemicals altogether, including nine carcinogens, 40 chemicals toxic to the reproductive system, 34 neurotoxins, and 15 chemicals toxic to the endocrine system.

are fire retardants commonly used in foam furniture and bedding manufactured before 2005. Phthalates are a group of chemicals commonly used as softeners in many plastic items, including pet chew toys. PFCs are found in food bag coatings, house dust, stainproof furniture, cat beds, carpets, and non-stick cooking utensils. You can find mercury compounds in a variety of industrial sources. Garden insecticides and herbicides also contain many harmful chemicals.

How Serious Is the Danger?

The EWG report points out that because pets age more rapidly than humans, they develop health problems from toxic chemical exposure much more rapidly. That is of particular concern where the carcinogenic chemicals are concerned. According to the EWG report, between 20 to 25% of dogs die of cancer. In the case of cats, the repor t cites endocrine (hormone) system toxins (PBDEs) as being of particular concern. These are associated with thyroid disease, a leading cause of illness in older cats. The report also cites studies that suggest a link between hyperthyroidism in cats and exposure to the plastics chemical BPA, which is found in the linings of pop-top cat food cans.

How Can I Protect My Pet?

Although not the final word on the subject, the EWG findings suggest that some sensible precautions by pet owners are appropriate.The results suggest a number of steps that will reduce the level of pets chemical exposure: Dont use chemical pesticides and herbicides. Select pet foods that are free of preservatives and dyes. Replace foam pet beds with ones using natural materials. Avoid flea and tick collars, which deliver a constant dose of pesticide to your pet. Avoid optional stain-proofing treatments on furniture, carpets, and auto upholstery. Use filtered water in your pets water bowl. Use metal or glazed ceramic food and water bowls, rather than those made of plastic. Read the labels and use only products specifically designed for your pet breed. Avoid buying products that contain plastic softeners or flame retardants.

Chemicals? What Chemicals?

Most pet owners are diligent when it comes to monitoring their pets diets and general health. So, it may come as a surprise to learn that there are literally scores of chemicalssome of them known to be toxic or potentially carcinogenicto which our pets are exposed on a regular basis. The list reads like the index of a chemistry textbook, and includes: polybrominated biphenyl ethers (PBDEs), phthalates, oxytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethoxyquin, propylene glycol, bisphenol A (BPA), and perfluorochemicals (PFCs).

Where Do They Come From?

According to the EWG repor t, the sources of industrial chemicals found in the pet environment are many, and include substances widely used in consumer and pet products. PBDEs

Source: webvet.com

Are Our Homes a Toxic Environment?

safety first

Source: aspca.org

Pet Grooming 101

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The Importance of Proper Eye Care

by Dr. Donna Spector

examine your pet to determine if they have a condition that can be corrected. 4. Keeping eyes clear of mucus. Just like humans, pets can have sleepies (rheum) in the morning and have mucus discharge after being exposed to wind, dirt and pollen. Your pet will be most comfortable to have mucus removed frequently. Infections are often caused by bacteria that overgrow on mucus. Keeping pets eyes clean contribute to their health and wellness by preventing irritation and infection that can be painful and possibly lead to loss of vision. Pets have very few effective or safe ways to clean their own eyesthey either rub their eyes with paws (that have sharp toenails!) or rub their faces on the carpeting or furniture. These methods can lead to scratches on the eye surface or irritation of the skin around the eye. It is best that pet owners perform a weekly examination and cleaning to keep their furbabies eye healthy. 5. Keeping hair trimmed away from the eyes. Scratches can occur if hair rubs against the surface of the eye (cornea).This is particularly important in breeds that have skin folds near the eye. Hair around the eye can also pull tears out of the eyes and cause tear staining as well as a dryer, less comfortable eye. It is always important to use blunt-nosed scissors when working around the eye. 6. Apply an eye lubricant ointment before bathing, cleaning the face, or applying topical insecticides to prevent eye irritation from grooming supplies. 7. Eye-healthy diet. If your pet is prone to eye problems, consider adding leafy green vegetables, parsley, any blue or purple berries, carrots, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds to the diet and supplementing with Zinc, Bioflavonoids, Pycnogenols, Vitamin A, Vitamin C or Vitamin D.

Symptoms of Eye Problems

Healthy eyes should be clear and moist. If there is any redness, discharge or swelling of the surrounding skin, there may be an eye infection or other problem. Examine the white part of the eyes (sclera) and the pink tissue of the eyes (conjunctiva) for any discoloration (yellow or bruising) or large engorged blood vessels. The black center of the eye (pupil) should be examined for cloudiness or bluish discoloration. Older pets can develop age-related cloudiness (called nuclear sclerosis) and it is important to have your veterinarian distinguish between this and cataracts. Also check that the pupils are the same size. The colored portion around the pupil is the iris and should be examined for black or red spots or growths. As pets age, the iris can develop ragged edges and is considered normal. Alert your veterinarian to any changes that you notice.

Cleaning your Pets Eyes

Natural pet products that are slightly acidic and contain natural antiseptic and antimicrobial proper ties are recommended for routine weekly eye cleaning. Halo Herbal Eye Wash is an excellent natural pet product that is gentle enough to use daily and helps to open clogged tear ducts to prevent infection. With a warm moist cloth, remove any debris at the corner of the eyes or on the skin around the eyes. Hold the dropper or bottle using your thumb and index finger. With your other hand, use your thumb to pull down the lower eyelid. The lower eyelid acts as a pouch to receive the drops. Hold the dropper or bottle close to the eye but do not touch the eyes surface. Squeeze the correct number of drops onto the eyeball, aiming for the center of the eye and then release the head. Your pet will blink, which spreads the cleaning solution over the surface of the eye. Wipe any excess cleaning fluid, tears or debris away from the eyes. Follow these guidelines to keep your pets eyes healthy. If you suspect a problem, contact your veterinarian for advice.
Source: halopets.com and organic-pet-digest.com

Proper Preventive Eye Care Includes:

1. Weekly examination. 2.Weekly cleaning. Some pets may require more frequent cleaning to keep their eyes healthy and comfortable. 3. Address tear staining. Light-colored pets may develop brown or pink stains on the skin and hair below the inside corner of the eye. This happens when bacteria and yeast on the hair and skin react with the tears. Many dogs and cats have an underlying problem causing their tear staining, including clogged or shallow tear ducts, excessive tearing, allergies, or eye irritation caused by abnormal eyelids or eyelashes. You should have your veterinarian

The Importance of Proper Eye Care

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The Annual Vet Visit Checklist

Often we associate a trip to the vet as something only required when your furbaby becomes unwell. However, it is also important to remember that visiting your vet on an annual basis is equally important for your pets well-being and longevity.

Well-Visit Checklist
An annual health assessment will ensure that your pets vaccinations are up to date and give you an opportunity to raise any behavioral or health issues that may be of concern. Dont be shy about asking questions; seven dog years is a long time between appointments so youll want to make the most of your visit. Vaccinations: Keeping your pets vaccinations up-to-date is important to her health, and can prevent her from contracting illnesses. Diseases that can affect your pet may be airborne or can be acquired through contact with a parasite, a virus, or fecal matter brought inside on your shoes, so even indoor pets should be vaccinated. Age, health, lifestyle, environment and geography all will affect your pets vaccination schedule so be sure to ask your veterinarian what is appropriate for your pet. Parasites: Left untreated, flea, tick and worm infestations can put your pet at risk for serious, sometimes deadly, diseases. Flea larvae, for example, can live in your house year-round and can transmit
John F. Kennedy with wife and kids and their with his dogs

Pre-Visit Checklist
Your visit to the vet will go more smoothly if youre prepared. Heres a list of items youll want to consider bringing with you: Your pets collar and license tag; A leash/harness (or small cage if appropriate); A muzzle if your dog barks or bites; A favorite toy or a few treats (especially if your pet gets anxious during her visit); Health care information (if youre switching vets or were seen by a different vet since your last visit); Stool sample to test for intestinal parasites; and List of questions or concerns to ask the veterinarian.

The Annual Vet Visit Checklist

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a tapeworm infection if your dog swallows even a single flea. Your vet can offer suggestions on how to prevent and/or control parasites and show you how to check for parasites on a regular basis. Dental Care: A dental check should be par t of your pets well-visit check-up. Proper nutrition, regular brushing and chew toys/treats designed to rid your pets teeth of tartar buildup all contribute to good oral hygiene and will help keep her mouth (and body) healthy. Your vet can show you proper brushing techniques and also determine if your pet needs a dental cleaning. Behavior: Age, breed, nutrition, environment and exercise all play a vital role in the development of your pets personality and behavior. Talk to your vet if your pets behavior is unusual or if she is chewing, biting, barking excessively or showing aggressive tendencies. Generally, canine and feline misbehavior can be mitigated or stopped if addressed early. Nutrition/Exercise: It is estimated that nearly one out of every two dogs in the U.S. is either overweight or obese. Those extra pounds can lead to a host of medical problems and impact your dogs quality and length of life. Well-visits are an opportunity to keep track of your dogs or cats weight and address problems before they affect their health. If necessary, your vet can advise you of an appropriate diet/exercise regime that will safely help them achieve a healthy weight. Your veterinarian will ask if you have any questions, so this is a good time to discuss any concerns you have or ask questions on health, diet, parasite control and general cat care.

Dont Wait Until Your Furbaby is Sick

Make it a point to visit the vet before your dog becomes ill. A yearly wellness exam is ideal if your dog is generally healthy, but may be needed more often if your dog is 7+ years or has special medical needs. If your cat is elderly, discuss his special needs with your veterinarian. Just like people, senior cats may suffer from various organ system problems, osteoar thritis, loss of vision or hearing, and even memory loss or dementia (also known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome). Luckily, many problems can be successfully controlled with medication or simple lifestyle changes.
Source: hartz.com/Dogs, cat-world.com.au and catsplay.com

To-Do Between Visits

It is important to keep a careful eye on your furbaby. Prompt veterinary attention should be sought immediately if you notice any of the below: Excessive thirst Increase or decrease in eating habits Weight loss or weight gain Changes in behaviour Vomiting Any lumps or bumps Bad breath Lethargy Cough, laboured breathing or shortness of breath Increase in temperature, pulse or breathing rate Changes in litter box habits. Constipation, diarrhea, frequent urination, straining to go to the toilet, blood in feces Abnormal discharges containing pus or blood.These often have an offensive odour. Keep an eye out for discharges from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or genitals.

The Annual Vet Visit Checklist

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Do Pets Get Stressed?

As is the case in humans, other health problems associated with stress include diabetes, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, memory loss, autoimmune diseases, thyroid problems, infertility, skin and coat problems, muscle tension and fatigue.

What Causes Stress?

For a household pet, stress may be caused by multiple factors. A pet may get stressed by a new person in the home, an addition to the family (a new baby), fireworks, thunder storms, moving house, a stay in a kennel, unfamiliar surroundings, a visit to the vet or worst of allgetting out of the property and becoming lost. Certain breeds are also susceptible to hereditary stress disorders. As your pet cannot vocalize their stress and anxiety, it is a good idea to monitor your pets behavior in certain situations. Stressed animals will usually change behavior suddenly panting, pacing, or licking at themselves as a coping mechanism. The answer to that question is undoubtedly, yes. An animals ner vous system is just as susceptible to stressors in the environment and surroundings as our nervous system is, if not more so. Animals that are constantly high-strung may pull out their fur or feathers, or engage in ritualistic behavior in an attempt to calm their nerves. If your pet stops eating, or has a drastic change in bowel movements (diarrhea) it may be a sign that their stress needs to be managed.

Effects of Stress
Stress can have serious physical and psychological consequences on an animal. Stress takes its toll on the immune system and studies have shown that people under more stress are more likely to get sick. The same may be true for animals. When an animal gets stressed, messages are sent to various organs in the body to produce cer tain results --- the hear t quickens, they start to pant and lick their lips, they quiver and shake, their eyes get glazed and they seem to be in a fearful trance-like state. It is especially dangerous for a pet, as animals have been known to resort to desperate measures (jumping out of windows during a thunderstorm) to get away from the perceived danger as they would do in nature during the fight or flight response. Health problems related to stress may include cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and coronary hear t disease aggravated by stress. Stress may also play a role in speeding up the progress of certain cancers and disorders in the animal body.

Help for Stress

There is a lot that can be done to help your pet cope. The most important thing is to try and identify what may be causing your pet to stress, so that you can make changes to avoid the upset in future. The solution may be as simple as closing the drapes when there is a storm, or giving your pet a treat when he or she is visiting the vet. In other cases, it may be more serious and require treatment or advice from an animal behaviorist or veterinarian.

Natural Remedies
There are many natural herbal and homeopathic remedies that can help to reduce stress levels for your pet without serious side effectsusing Natures helping hand. Natural ingredients aim to treat the animal as a whole, supporting the body and the nervous system.
Source: nativeremedies.com

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Dental Health Care for Your Pet

Periodontal Disease Prevention:
1. Daily brushing. At a minimum every other day. Plaque tends to build most on the upper teeth, so be sure to focus some time there. 2. Healthy diet. The healthier the animal, the better the immune system. A meat based diet is essential as meat helps maintain a healthier mouth environment. 3. Chewing on hard food. Raw bones and treats such as tendons, bully sticks or other dental chews helps exercise the teeth and gums and even helps scrape off plaque, helping to prevent tartar buildup. Greenies are ever-popular dental chews and can be ver y effective. Note that crunching kibble and dog biscuits does not qualify as dental exercise nor does it remove plaque from the teeth. Eating kibble and biscuits generally leaves behind small bits of food material that easily stick to the teeth and contribute to plaque buildup. 4. Mouth washes, drops or water supplements. These are a great tool in the prevention of periodontal disease when combined with brushing. They are definitely not as effective as brushing, but are certainly better than no home care. 5. Regular checkups. Important, especially for the older animal. If you smell any foul odor, see any redness in the gums or a lot of tartar buildup on the teeth, then seek the help of a veterinarian. If caught early enough, it is possible to scrape the tartar off of some animals teeth without general anesthesia. Supplementing with Vitamin C and CoEnzyme Q10 can help promote the health and healing of gum tissue as well. If your veterinarian finds more advanced periodontal disease, consider the overall benefits of having a dental procedure performed. Your pet will definitely benefit from a healthier and much more comfortable mouth. Home dental care can be the best gift you can give your pet. It requires a little more time on your part, but goes such a long way to preventing disease and discomfort that it is well worth it. Considering the cost and stress involved for your pet of a dental procedure by a veterinarian, it is certainly a very wise investment.

Dental hygiene is one of the most important aspects of pet care. Keeping your dog or cats teeth and gums healthy will go a long way to preventing an uncomfortable or even painful mouth, but also more serious chronic conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, heart conditions and joint problems. A healthy canine or feline mouth is teeming with bacteria most of which are normal and natural. It is important to control plaque buildup in order to ensure most of these bacteria are healthy bacteria. Plaque is a mixture of bacteria, saliva components, and remnants of epithelial cells and white blood cells along with some broken down food particles. It is sticky and should be removed, from the teeth daily. When not removed plaque becomes tartar as mineral deposits and organic material build up and harden on the teeth. Tartar generally looks like a yellow-brown layer on the teeth near the gum line. As plaque and tartar build on the teeth, the balance of healthy bacteria is thrown off and the opportunity for disease arises. As the tartar builds up under the gums they become inflamed and sore. Plaque builds even more rapidly in the upper, softer part of the teeth and infection begins. In cats, cavities develop with even more opportunity for infection while dogs are less prone to cavities. The bacteria and toxins are absorbed into the blood stream where they circulate and begin to build in kidney, liver, and heart tissue.The toxins released can even affect brain tissue.The inflammatory process involved can aggravate deteriorating joints. Sound scary? Its also painful. But it is preventable. Plaque builds up on your dogs or cats teeth every day. Just as you brush your teeth every day, so should your companion of course, since they dont have opposable thumbs, youll have to have to help them out. A combination of teeth brushing and healthy chew treats will go a long way to maintaining your companions overall health and extending their life expectancy.

Source: healthypetjournal.com

Dental Health Care for Your Pet

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Sorting Out Supplements For Dogs

by Laura Scott and Elizabeth Pask

There are some possible hazards in oversupplementing Omega-3 fatty acids, such as a decreased ability for blood to clot, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and hives. Therefore, Omega-3 fatty acids should not exceed 4% of your dogs daily caloric intake. Remember, these fats are high in calories, so you may need to adjust the rest of your dogs diet to keep him or her from putting on extra pounds.

Joint Supplements
Stiffness, especially upon waking, is one of the main clues that your dog may have arthritic activity in his joints. Fortunately, there are a number of supplements available to help improve the health of the joint and cartilage. Supplements for joint health take time to work, so it is always best to start early. If you have a highly active dog, a dog with known joint problems, or a breed prone to joint issues, you may want to begin supplements while your dog is young and before they show any signs of problems. For many of us, our dogs are cherished members of our family and, as such, we strive to give them the best life possible. But what happens when all of these dont appear to be enough? The answer may lie in some common supplements available for our dogs. Most joint supplements contain glucosamine HCL (glucosamine sulfate is less digestible), MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and chondroiton. These are naturally occurring nutrients that the body produces and which can be added to the diet. As dogs age, or if they experience physical stress, the need for these nutrients may exceed the bodys ability to supply them. There may also be other ingredients in the supplement which may or may not be beneficial, but they are unlikely to cause harm.

Skin and Coat Supplements

Dry flaky skin or excessive hair loss is a common complaint for many dogs. For most breeds, a healthy dog should have soft fur that is neither greasy nor dry. It is important to note that dogs with normally fine fur will not have an excessive shine to their coat the same way dogs with coarser fur do. In order to maintain a healthy skin and coat, our dogs require Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids. These fats are also called essential fatty acids (EFAs) and they may be included in your dogs normal diet. Fatty Acids are required by the body to maintain the integrity of the cell membrane. Skin cells have a high rate of turnover and they may require more of these fats than other parts of the body. The optimal dose and ratio of fatty acids are still being researched, but the current recommendation is a ratio of 2-5 times more Omega-6 than Omega-3. Canola oil and soybean oil are good sources of a balanced omega fatty acid supplement. However, since Omega-6 fatty acids are fairly common in your dogs normal diet, you may wish to just supplement Omega-3 fatty acids. In that case, flaxseed oil or wild salmon oil are good choices.

A Note of Caution
Remember that not all human supplements are safe for dogs. When choosing a supplement for your dog, it is best to consult your vet to ensure it is safe and is not going to interact with any medications your dog may currently be taking. If your dog is going to have an adverse reaction, it will usually occur within 72 hours after the introduction of the supplement. So monitor your pet closely when you are giving a new supplement. With most supplements it will take about 6 8 weeks to see a change in your dogs condition, so be patient and wait to see a result. Feeding supplements can be a valuable tool to enhance your dogs diet and help him or her maintain optimal health. The best way to keep your dog as healthy as possible is to provide high-quality nutrition with supplements as necessary, long walks, playing time, and snuggling on the couch.

Source: halopets.com and organic-pet-digest.com

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Enriching Your Furbabys Life

Boredom and excess energy are two common reasons for behavioral problems in dogs. Dogs are meant to lead active lives. Whether dogs were working for us or scavenging on their own, their survival once depended on lots of exercise and problem solving. Today thats all changed. Now, the most common job description for dogs is Couch Potato! The result is dogs who are bored silly, often overweight and have too much energy. Its a perfect recipe for behavior problems. Free-ranging and feral cats lead complex and busy lives. They maintain large territories that often contain a variety of habitats. They explore, they hunt, they scavenge for food, and they interact with other cats. In contrast, household cats, especially those who live exclusively indoors, have little to do and boredom may set in.

What Does Your Dog Need?

Food puzzle toys are sturdy containers, usually made of hard rubber or plastic, that hold food or treats inside but dont give dogs easy access to the food. Food puzzle toys require time, patience and problem-solvingall skills that are good for your dog and will help her enjoy quiet time alone. Food puzzle toys offer a natural solution to pet-dog boredom and also encourage chewing and licking, which can have a calming effect on dogs. Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, its important to provide a variety of appropriate and attractive chew toys and hard rubber toys, natural marrow bones, rawhide and pig ears. Off-leash play with other dogs serves multiple purposes. It can give your dog oppor tunities to practice her social skills with other dogs, wear her out mentally and tire her physically. If your dog enjoys romping with dog buddies, give her regular opportunities to do so.

Fun Activities for Cats

Even if you dont think that your cat seems bored, there are a number of good reasons to provide enrichment opportunities for your feline friend. Cats who lack enrichment can be aggressive in play, both with people and with other animals in the household, or become reclusive. Young cats often pester their pet parents for play at inappropriate hours of the day and night. They may also interact destructively with furniture, plants or other objects in the house. Cats lacking regular play may be more attracted to perches by windows.When looking outside, they may overreact to the presence of outdoor cats they can see and become very distressed. Here are some ideas to try: Provide a variety of toys for your cat. Stimulating play for a cat involves opportunities to hunt, so move toys in such a way that they mimic the movements of a rodent or bird. Introduce new toys periodically to keep your cat from becoming bored with her toys. Provide objects for your cat to explore that encourage her to investigate various holes with her paws. Rotate playtime objects frequently so that your cat doesnt become bored. Provide several small meals per day rather than one or two large meals. Also avoid free feeding (keeping your cats bowl full all the time).

Short on Time?
Its often difficult to work time with your pet into your hectic daily routine. But if youve got a busy schedule, you can find help. Consider the following time-saving ways to add some excitement to your pets life: Look into the possibility of taking your dog to a dog daycare at least once or twice a week. If you live close enough to work, consider going home to spend your lunch break with your pet. If you cant make it home during the day, hire a dog walker to take your dog out for a stroll instead. If you have friends or family members who dont work during the day, ask if theyd be willing to let your pet visit them while youre at work.

Source: pets.webmd.com
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Enrich Your Furbabys Life

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you and your pet

What Does Your Pet Say About You?

Some people prefer activities associated with cats over those associated with dogs. All allow for the expression of personality traits. Extroversion and agreeableness play out in social interactions, he said.

Truth in Studies Findings

Gosling also said that having a pet is both an expression of identity in that a pet choice can send deliberate signals as well as what he called a thought and feeling regulator. Lisa Peterson, a spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club, said she recognized some truth in the studies findings. We tend to gravitate to pets that reflect our own personalities, she said. Dogs tend to attract extroverted humans who are fond of socializing. Cats, on the other hand, normally dont travel in packs and seem to complement humans who are more introverted. Pamela DelaBar, president of the Cat Fanciers Association, said that its possible that part of the reason why the Bristol University study found an educational discrepancy between cat and dog owners is that more educated individuals might cluster in cities. Its much easier to have cats in the city than it is dogs, she said. It becomes a matter of convenience.

Are bookish people more likely to be cat lovers than dog lovers? Maybe so. New research from the UKs Bristol University found that people with a college degree or higher were more likely to own cats than dogs. In a study intended to determine the dog and cat populations in the U.K., researchers found that of 2,524 households polled, 47% of those with a cat had at least one person educated to degree level versus 38% of homes with dogs.

How Are Cat and Dog People Different?

A study published in January explores the issue more explicitly. Sam Gosling, a University of Texas at Austin psychologist and his team asked 4,565 volunteers if they were dog people, cat people, neither, or both. And then they administered a personality test that assessed the so-called Big Five personality dimensions: openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness and neuroticism. Gosling said that while the study did find differences between those who described themselves as cat people and those who identified as dog people, it didnt portray one to be more positive than the other. Those who self-identified as dog people were 15% more extroverted, 13% more agreeable and 11% more conscientious than their cat-loving counterparts. Cat people were generally about 12% more neurotic and 11% more open than the dog folks. These are very broad dimensions, Gosling said. Open refers to the willingness to try new things, he said, and conscientious refers to thinking before acting and planning acknowledged that the study only speaks in general terms.

Cat, Dog Lovers Not so Different

Jennifer Leigh Schwerer, a 33-year-old New Yorker, said shes always thought of herself as more of a cat person and identified with some of the researchers findings. I definitely would classify myself as more introverted, she said, adding that as a psychology major she can also relate to those with neurotic tendencies. I always felt like cat people were more intuitive, more patient and willing to build a connection over time, she said. But Schwerer emphasized that after recently visiting her cat- turned dog-loving sister, shes revisited her former notions about pets and the people who own them. Over the course of the week, her relationship with it changed. I think I got used to it, the dog seemed bright to me and willing to connect with me the same way that cats are, Scherer said. The whole experience, she said, made her think that perhaps cat and dog owners arent so different after all. I think pets maybe just say something about where the owner is... What mood theyre in at that point in time, she said. You find a pet that you enjoy and you start to learn to love the things about it.
Source: abcnews.go.com

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What Does Your Pet Say About You?

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ask the vet

Ask the

et

By : Ma. Mylene L. Maranan, DVM Bow & Wow resident veterinarian

The use of pet supplements and nutraceuticals is a relatively recent practice in veterinary medicine. Some veterinarians may be unfamiliar with the indications and precautions surrounding the usage of certain pet supplements. Fortunately, reliable information resources about the clinical application of pet supplements are becoming increasingly available to veterinarians. When there is any uncertainty about the use of a product in a par ticular pet, it is advised to consult the manufacturer of the product. If there is reliable information about the products safety and efficacy in animals, the manufacturer should be able to provide you with this. If the manufacturer is unwilling to provide any information, it is safer to not use that pet supplement.

Q: How is the effectiveness of a pet supplement determined?

A. Very few supplements and herbs have been subjected to scientific trials to determine their efficacy. Most of the information about pet supplements comes from anecdotal or testimonial evidence (someone tells you about their personal experience or about another pet who showed some benefit while taking the product). Although this information may be helpful, it may be incomplete, or it may not represent what effects the supplement could have on a pet. It is common for multiple supplements to be given simultaneously or in conjunction with other lifestyle changes. In these cases, it can be difficult to determine what effects can truly be attributed to the pet supplement and what may be attributable to other factors. For example, if a dog starts taking pet supplement X, starts a new natural dog food and starts getting more exercise, the observed changes may be due to any one of the factors, to a combination of all three, or even to a placebo effect. To further complicate the issue of effectiveness, some supplements are only effective after they have been given for long periods of time, and the patient may continue to show some of the positive effects for a few weeks after the pet supplement has been discontinued. A good example of this is the use of glucosamine for dog arthritis. It may take one to two months to show the positive effects and can take the same period of time to wear off after it has been discontinued.

Q: What should an owner look for on a pet supplement label or package?

A. Every product package should have the name and contact information of the manufacturer. It should contain information about its contents, ideally with some sort of minimum analysis of the active ingredients. It should also contain information about any inert of carrier substances that are present (e.g. milk sugar, whey, vegetable or animal proteins,etc). For herbal products, the label should also include the Latin name of the plant, a harvest date or an expiration date, the part of the herb used and the amount of active ingredient.

Q: Who should a pet owner get advice from about using pet supplements?
A. A licensed veterinarian who is knowledgeable about the supplement of interest and about alternative medicine in general is your best source of advice. If your veterinarian is unfamiliar with the supplement you are interested in, ask them to refer you to a reputable information source.

Q: Are all pet supplements safe to use?

A. Just because a pet product is natural, does not mean that it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given in excess. The best source of information for the safety of pet supplements is your veterinarian.

Q: What should an owner do if a pet shows an unexpected reaction to a pet supplement?

A. Unexpected reactions must always be repor ted to your veterinarian, to the person who advised you to use the pet supplement (if it wasnt your veterinarian) and to the manufacturer of the pet supplement.

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pet nutrition

Holistic Nutrition For Pets

by Sara Gentry and George Burns

green beans and zucchini; fruits, such as apples, blueberries and bananas; barley and oatmeal; honey and peanut butter can all be components for healthy snacks. The following gives a brief if not simplistic explanation of how a proper holistic diet should be formulated for health.This approach draws on the principle of Traditional Chinese Medicinal approaches to diet and health. We need to consider 4 major areas in formulating a good holistic diet. 1. Quality of the Ingredients and the Impact of Processing As consumers, dog and cat owners are presented with a myriad of choices when selecting a dog or cat food. Unfortunately, most owners buy a food because it is well marketed, the one having the best commercials or printed advertisements. When discussing diet it is always helpful to remember just what dogs and cats ate prior to domestication. This is difficult for dogs because they have been domesticated for so long and because of human influences, they represent a wide array of genetic variability. Cats not only consume rodents, but also birds, insects, snakes, and a wide variety of grasses and other plant material. The following table shows the loss of nutrients when whole wheat is refined to white flour.
Mineral Magnesium Potassium Iron Phosphorous Calcium Chromium Loss % 85 77 76 71 60 40 Other Nutrients Alpha- linoleic acid Fiber Vitamins B1, 2 & 3 Zinc Vitamin B6 Protein Loss % 95 95 81 78 72 33

Source : Erasmus Fats that heal and Fats that Kill

Raw food or homemade diets

These diets are primarily fed to try to match more closely the primitive diets of dogs and cats. The most popular raw diet was started by Dr. Ian Billinghurst and is outlined in his book Give Your Dog A Bone. Poultry protein, whole grains, organic oats and barley, organic eggs and organic ground beef, lamb or pork can add essential nutrients to a holistic canine diet. In a strict holistic diet, 50% of the dogs food should be made up of grains 25% of a dogs diet should be vegetables. The final quarter of the dogs diet should consist of meat. Fish and eggs are also OK for an occasional treat. Adding some natural supplements can help complete your dogs diet plan. Some of the problems your dog may be experiencing wont clear up with ordinary food, and supplements could help remedy them. Glucosamine and Chondroitin protect and improve joint health; Vitamins C, B12, A, E and B are all beneficial. Calcium, zinc and magnesium are also recommended. A holistic food diet doesnt include most treats, especially those of the prepackaged, junk-food type. However, you can still reward your dog more natural alternatives. Any human-grade whole ingredients; organic flaxseed oil; vegetables like carrots,

These figures basically represent how white flour compared to whole wheat is highly deficient in nutritional value. Now lets look at some of the nutrient losses associated with other food. The following table shows losses of minerals and vitamins when food is processed from what constitutes its whole food form to its refined form.
Whole Food Brown Rice Corn Sugar Milk Refined Food White rice Corn Starch White sugar Fat Free Milk Loss % 26 83 31 100 83 100 80 100

Source : Erasmus Fats that heal and Fats that Kill

Thus we can conclude that highly processed refined food is deficient of many nutrients. 2. Thermal Nature of the Ingredients Traditional Chinese approaches tells us that food have an impact on the body of hot, warm, cool, cold, dry or damp. Most food are subjected to variations in their temperature during production, transport, storage, preparation and consumption. Temperature changes cause alterations in the physical and chemical properties of food components which influence the overall properties of the

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pet nutrition

final product, e.g., taste, appearance, texture and stability, and of course its influence in the body. The following table gives a brief explanation of the thermal properties of various food in terms of how they influence the body.
Neutral Foods Carrots Lean chicken Brown Rice Warming Foods Lamb Turkey Red meat Cooling Foods Spinach Fish Cucumber Drying Foods Beet Pulp Barley Oats Damp Foods Fat/Oil Dairy Products Wheat

calcium depletion, which in turn damages the hear t, ar teries, nerves, bones, kidneys and muscles. Sugar The body needs it but when we refine it, too much of it in the wrong form is dangerous. Whether it is called fructose, sucrose, or corn syrup, it passes so quickly into the system it shocks the stomach and the pancreas it very quickly becomes acidic and helps to consume the minerals. Calcium is lost from the system and the digestive system becomes weak. In large amounts it leads to obesity, hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, heart disease, immune deficiency, and so on.

Our pets need to avoid extremes in terms of the thermal nature of food and therefore if one ingredient has a warming effect, the overall diet should have a counterbalancing food which is cooling. Recurring ear infections are caused by the food creating a warm, damp, swampy like environment in the ear canal. The ear canal becomes a hot bed for bacterial overgrowth, similarly with the anal glands. 3. Acid / Alkaline Impact on the Body The term used to define this relationship is the pH level Potential Hydrogen.
Acid Forming Foods Saturated fats Dairy products Meat Brown Rice Alkaline Forming Foods Spinach Carrots Green Beans Millet

Commercial Diet
Just because your dogs food is premium or gourmet doesnt mean its any better than the rest. Food labeled natural, however, must meet cer tain criteria; they feature only plant, animal or mineral ingredients and cannot contain synthetics. Even organic food have criteria: 100% organic food are made from all organic ingredients. Food that are just plain organic have a makeup thats at least 95% organic, and those made with organic ingredients have only 70% organic products. Dinner is another tip-off word; for example, a chicken dinner only has to contain 25% chicken. With means with at least 3%, and flavor means flavoring, not actual nutritional substance. Secondly, avoid food with any ar tificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin, or propylene glycol. Look for food that contains meat, or meat meals and whole grains. Simple food (i.e. food that has fewer ingredients) are likely better because they are easier to digest.The body has difficulty digesting multiple different protein and grain sources at one time, being unable to secrete the necessary enzymes. Not only do more natural diets leave out dinners and flavors, they dont contain cancer-causing preservatives. None of the calories in a holistic diet come from synthetic materials like colorings and flavorings, so your pet wont put on unnecessary weight. And pets who maintain a good weight tend to live longer. Just like humans, pets who go natural can be healthier and have more energy when owners do a better job meeting their nutritional needs. As you can see, feeding your dog or cat is no simple task. At the very least it entails you to be an informed consumer, reading pet food labels to determine which food is good rather than just buying the food because your dog looks like the one on the commercials! Homemade diets are wonderful and usually a necessity if your pet has an illness. Raw diets are the closest to a primitive diet and are likely the best diets for all pets to be eating. However, you will need to read up on these diets before trying to prepare one.
Source: landofholisticpets.co.uk, holisticvetcenter.com and ehow.com

It is vitally important that there is a proper ratio between acid and alkaline food in the diet. The natural ratio in a normal healthy body is approximately 4 to 1 --- four parts alkaline to one part acid, or 80% to 20%. When such an ideal ratio is maintained, the body has a strong resistance against disease. Pet food generally are very acidic in their formulation and tend to be problematic over the life time of our pets. 4. Excesses and Deficiencies Protein excess is converted by the body to nitrogen waste which is excreted in the urine however if the kidneys are doing this on a daily basis, year in, year out there are potential for kidney problems. Fat increases palatability but excess tend to create warm and very damp conditions in the body. Clogs up and slows the digestive system. Salt increases palatability however it is very alkaline forming in the body but excessive use of it is dangerous which leads to

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breed spotlight

Aspin (Philippines Native Dog)

Navy and Mimi of PAWS. For more information on pet adoption, contact PAWS for details.

Origin: Philippines Utilization: Hunting Dog for birds and small animals; companion dog Classification: Group 5: Spitz and Primitive type Section 7: Primitive Type Hunting Dog without working trial General Appearance: Medium-sized dog, well-balanced, of noble bearing with clean-cut lines; graceful yet powerful; fast and agile, with free easy movement and alert expression. Behavior/Temperament: Aler t, intelligent, and independent, somewhat aloof to strangers, but otherwise friendly and affectionate to his human family members. He responds best to a partnership type of relationship.

Head: Wedge-shaped head with powerful jaws and strong, full set of teeth, scissor bite; almond-shaped eyes, obliquely set, with a soft, intelligent yet alert expression; slight stop; medium, pointed, erect high-set ears that are very mobile. Body: Medium-sized, of noble bearing with clean-cut lines; graceful yet powerful; fast, agile with free easy movement. Long graceful neck blends to a deep well developed chest and well tucked up belly, with a structure slightly resembling the sight hound breeds. Well muscled and powerful for its size, showing strong free and agile movement with powerful rear drive yet flexible enough to turn on a centavo.

Source: wedogsinc.org/dog-breeds

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