Natural Pet Healthcare Blog

"Oppose Breed Specific Legislation!" Petition

2011-09-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

Please take a minute to sign this petition. Your participation can make a big difference

"Oppose Breed Specific Legislation!" Petition

In Memory of 9/11 - "A Prayer for the Animals"

2011-09-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

In memory of 9/11...let us remember all that were lost, including the animals. "A Prayer for the Animals" by Albert Schweitzer:

Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals, especially for animals who are suffering; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the merciful.

The website the meat industry really doesn't want you to see...

2011-09-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Your Meat

2011-09-08T18:26:00.001-07:00

This counter shows the number of animals 'inhumanly slaughtered' in the world by the meat, dairy and egg industries, just since you opened this webpage.

This does not include the billions of fish and other aquatic animals killed annually.

Based on 2007 statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations' Global Livestock Production and Health Atlas.
Get this counter »

Animal Doses in Homeopathy

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

This is the only reference dedicated to the methods of dosing and potency selection in the homeopathic treatment of animals.

A veterinary guide that takes all the guess work out of what dosing method to use, what potency to choose and how often to give a remedy. Using the techniques in this book can strongly improve the success of your homeopathic treatments and can drastically reduce healing time.

Whether you have a dog, cat, horse, bird, or... This guide will help you to be able to use homeopathy for 'ANY' pet.

If you are a professional, an aspiring student or brand new to veterinary homeopathy this is a must have!

What's inside...

Veterinary Materia Medica of the Most Used Remedies
How to Choose the Correct Potency
When to Raise the Potency
How to Administer the Dose and How Often to Repeat Dosing
When to Change a Remedy
Preparation and Dosing Instructions for: Dry Pills, Liquid Remedies, the Split Dose, LM Potencies
How to Prepare a Remedy for Olfaction (inhalation dosing)
How to Use Nosodes in the Prevention of Disease
How to Give Homeopathic Vaccines
How to Use the Plussing Method in the Treatment of Cancer
Homeopathic Treatment Guidelines for Dosing Neonates (young animals) and Senior Pets
Homeopathic Methods for Treating Acute Diseases
How to Homeopathically Treat Chronic Disease
How to Make Your Own Homeopathic Creams and Gels for Topical Application
How to Make a Homeopathic Nosode
Plus a Whole Lot More!

Published in an ebook format that you can instantly download and start using now. Laid out for easy on screen viewing and accessibility, it can be used on any computer. You can also print single pages or the entire volume, for a hard copy you can take anywhere.

To read the book reviews and see a sneak preview of the publication visit this link: Homeopathic Doses for Animals

The Grey Muzzel Organization

2011-07-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

Envision a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid... Too many old dogs are abandoned when they need us most.

Many dogs are abandoned in their senior years because their caretakers don’t want to take responsibility for the extra care required as part of the natural aging process. In other cases, a well-loved senior dog may become homeless when their senior person enters assisted living, and there is no place else to go. Some old dogs are rescued from a lifetime of abusive or neglectful situations with, finally, a chance to enjoy life in their last few years.

Through The Grey Muzzle Organization, you can help create happy endings for dogs in these circumstances. See how you can help.

NYC Manhattan Shelter Does the Unspeakable... Lets Speak Up!

2011-06-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

Please Help Get Jeffs Job Back.... Can You Please Share this Important Link with All of Your Friends on Your Email List? And for those of you with Twitter accounts, and Facebook pages, please post it on Facebook and Tweet it too!

Please join his support page, the link is below. There is another link on his page where you can go and sign a petition and send an email note of support of this FIRED VOLUNTEER who has spent hundreds-and-hundreds of hours giving comfort to animals at the worst possible time in their lives.

Click here and voice your disdain in behalf of Jeff and the animal's welfare.

Many thanks to all of you...

Lorelei Whitney

Pet Remedy Charts

Healthy Dog Treat Recipe

2011-06-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Sweet Puptato Chews

Ingredients:

1 raw sweet potato or 1 yam

Cooking Directions:

Total Time: 3 1/4 hrs

1. Preheat oven to 250°F.

2. Wash the sweet potato or yam (dark orange type).

3. Cut the sweet potato down the middle lengthwise.

4. Then cut long lengthwise slices about 1/3 of an inch wide and place them (not touching) on a cookie sheet in a single layer.

5. Bake in the oven at 250 F for about 3 hours.

6. This leaves the treats chewy. If your dog prefers a crunchy texture you can bake them 15 to 30 minutes longer.

Bone Appetit!

For more ideas on how to keep your dog healthy, visit Pet Remedy Charts for a complete holistic home health care system using natural remedies and home cures, herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure treatments in dog health care.

Home treatment for - dog vomits water - vomiting dog - dog vomiting.

2011-06-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Home Treatments for Vomiting Water

Herbal Remedies

Wild Bergamot. This is a Western herb which is pungent, bitter, sweet and can be used either to warm or cool the digestive system. It is excellent for stomach disorders of any kind and regulates the stomach's energy or qi.

Dose:
In tincture form, dilute 5 to 10 drops in 1 ounce of distilled water.

Cats/small dogs: 1 dropper full, twice daily.
Medium dogs: 2 dropper fulls, twice daily.
Large dogs: 3 dropper fulls, twice daily.

Chamomile. This Western herb regulates and calms the stomach energy. Its drying potential is useful here. Indigestion and inflammation such as gastritis are often eased with Chamomile. As a carminative with relaxing properties it will ease flatulence and stomach pain.

Dose:
In tincture form, dilute 5 to 10 drops in 1 ounce of distilled water.

Cats/small dogs: 1 dropper full, twice daily.
Medium dogs: 2 dropper fulls, twice daily.
Large dogs: 3 dropper fulls, twice daily.

Fennel. The root of this herb is warming, drying and pungent. It regulates and warms the spleen.

Dose:
In tincture form, dilute 5 to 10 drops in 1 ounce distilled water.

Cats/small dogs: 1 dropper full, twice daily.
Medium dogs: 2 droppers full, twice daily.
Large dogs: 3 dropper fulls, twice daily.

Nutritional Therapy

Avoid foods that create dampness in the system such as, tofu, millet, dairy products, raw vegetables and cooling foods such as wheat and avocado. Warming foods such as chicken, lamb, venison and lean beef are good for this condition, as are white rice and oats. Cooked carrots and squash are excellent vegetables for warming the spleen, as is ginger.

Pet Remedy Charts

We recommend using Pet Remedy Charts. A step-by-step holistic home health care system, which offers natural solutions for treating and healing your dog, cat, horse or bird at home. Pet Remedy Charts enable you to confidently and easily use homeopathy, herbal medicine, flower remedies and acupressure, in alternative healing.

How to Make Ginger Tea for Nausea, Vomiting and Motion Sickness

2011-06-12T23:49:00.000-07:00

Home Remedies - Treatments for Dogs and Cats

Recipe for Ginger Tea

The goal of this treatment is to calm and strengthen the stomach.

Herbal Treatment:
Make ginger tea by steeping 2 thin slices of fresh ginger root in 1 cup boiled water, cover and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Cool completely, remove and discard ginger slices and give to your dog or cat one half hour before traveling.

Dosage:
Cats/small dogs: 1 to 2 dropper fulls.
Medium/large dogs: 1/3 cup.

For a complete guide to natural treatments and home cures for dogs and cats we recommend Pet Remedy Charts.

Dog Incontinence - Home Remedies for Urinary Incontinence - Dribbling - Bladder Problems

2011-06-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

As animals age or if they were spayed or neutered at an inappropriate age, they may begin to lose bladder control - urinary incontinence. You may find wet places in the bed, on the carpet, or on the couch, or they may "dribble" while walking. Sometimes you may only see them licking themselves in attempt to get rid of the escaping urine or to hide the scent.

Often a lack of estrogen or testosterone is causing the problem. Synthetic estrogen may help, but they also have the potential to weaken the immune system.

Diet and Nutritional Supplements for Dog Incontinence

Foods that strengthen the kidneys or bladder, as well as the muscles in general, such as oats, chicken, and lamb kidney, may be added to the dogs diet. Adding 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh kale and parsley to the dog's food will help strengthen the kidneys too.

Herbal Remedies for Canine Incontinence

Schizandra fruit is known as the "five-flavor seed" in Chinese medicine and acts as an "astringent" to hold the urine where it belongs and help curtail leaking. It is available in many health food stores and Chinese pharmacies. Use 5 drops of the tincture dissolved in 1/2 ounce of water, giving 1/2 to 2 teaspoons twice daily depending on the size of your dog.

Mullein leaf, using 1/2 teaspoon to 1 cup of boiled water, cover and steep for 20 minutes, helps to tone bladder muscles, especially if a low-grade infection is suspected. Give 2 tablespoons of the diluted mix after the evening meal and before the last walk of the day.

For a treatment guide to home remedies and natural cures for dogs visit Pet Remedy Charts and learn Herbs, Acupressure, Flower Remedies and Homeopathy in dog health.

Homeopathic Remedies for - Vaccination

2011-06-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

Homeopathic Remedies for
Dogs and Cats

Homeopathic alternatives to conventional vaccines are beginning to gain acceptance. Studies indicate both their efficacy and safety. In addition, we are realizing the hazards that come along with live and modified-live vaccine drugs. Holistic veterinarians are struggling to begin the conversion process.

Please use the following format as an example of one protocol. Over time it will continue to evolve. The AHVMA will hopefully shepherd this process.

If you continue to utilize conventional vaccines (at this time we all must for Rabies), I would suggest that you follow the new standard for puppies and kittens (low repetition) followed by vaccines for Rabies every 3 years and for Distemper every 5-7 years for adult animals (to avoid unnessary innoculations, you could have a blood titer done to check the pets immunity). Avoid other vaccines such as Leukemia unless local situations dictate otherwise. Avoid multivalent vaccines (a vaccine prepared from several antigenic types within a species. Also called polyvalent vaccine) and never give vaccines to animals who are ill or under stress or that have recently undergone surgery. Never give more than one vaccine per veterinary visit, it is much safer to make a few extra trips to your vet.

To be on the safe side, it is worthwhile to antidote the posibility of vaccinosis (allergic reactions) with conventional vaccines by one or two doses of (homeopathic) Thuja 30c. Give 1 or 2 pillules dry before the shots are administered then dose again, after the shots are given.

Rabies shots can be antidoted specifically with the Rabies nosode, Lysene 30c. Give 1 or 2 pellets after the shot has been given.

Homeopathic Vaccines for Dogs and Cats

Dogs
Distemper
Hepatitis
Leptospirosis
Parvo-virus

Cats
Panleukopenia
Feline Leukemia
FIP - Feline Infectious Peritonitis

1. It is best to give one homeopathic, vaccine at a time. Avoid using homeopathic combination nosodes.
2. Dose - dissolve 2 or 3 pellets in 1/4 oz of bottled water. Give 1 dropper-full (1/4 tesp.) per cat or small to medium size dog. 2 droppers full (1/2 teaspoon) to large dogs.
3. Schedule: Remember threes.
a. Give 1 dose, 6c twice a day for 3 weeks, OR
b. Give 1 dose 30c, once a week for 3 weeks, OR
c. Give 1 dose 200c once a month for 3 months, OR
d. Give a booster dose of 1M once every 6 months, you may reduce to once yearly or cease as the animal ages.

To learn more about holistic pet health and natural healing for dogs and cats, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to home remedies, using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home treatments for pets.

Schwarzen”egg”er says yes to cage free eggs in California...

2011-05-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

A landmark bill was passed in California on July 7, 2010. It was signed by Governor Schwarzen'egg'er which will require all eggs produced AND imported into California to come from cage free hens. Still incubating, the law doesn't come into effect until 2015. This gives the chicken farmers time to figure out how they will comply, relocate for the extra space needed for production or go out of business.

Bill AB 1437 was backed by the Humane Society of the United States and requires that hens must be “able to stand up, lie down, turn around, and fully extend their limbs without touching one another or the sides of an enclosure”.

Three things are amazing about this: the first is that we actually require lobbyists and bills to ensure that animals are treated with a small amount of dignity; and the second is that the Humane Society had a huge impact on this decision, one we should all hope, will put in motion a change across the country in favor of protecting farm animals; and third, is that California voters actually voted for this in proposition 2 last fall, which means more people are becoming aware of our dysfunctional factory farming system, and the inhumanity by which food animals are treated.

To learn more about both sides of this ongoing battle read 'Humane Is the Game' an online article written by Patricia Peak Klintberg, published on the web by Farm Journal.

You can make a big difference in animal welfare laws. Here are a couple of ways to get started toward changing the laws:

Join the Aspca Advocacy Brigade
Inform your state and federal legislators that you’re disturbed by the inhumane treatment of animals in factory farms and would like to see legislation passed ensuring that all animals raised for food spend their lives in healthy, humane conditions. You can stay up-to-date about current farm animal legislation by joining the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade.

Throw Your Virtual Weight Around
Have a website, Facebook page or blog? Get everyone you know on the Web to be conscious about what they’re eating by adding a link to the ASPCA's factory farm section. Explain to them what goes on at factory farms, and let them know they have a choice to buy foods—free of antibiotics and hormones—from farms that raise healthy animals in a humane environment.

How to Make Parsley Tea for Dogs and Cats

2011-03-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Parsley is soothing to the kidneys and is used in ailments of the lower urinary tract such as cystitis, it also can be used to help prevent renal (kidney) gravel or stones from forming in dogs and cats. It is a rich source of anti-oxidant nutrients and vitamin C. It also contains vitamin A from beta-carotene which is beneficial to dogs.

Ingredients:

1 Tablespoon of fresh parsley
1 Cup of boiling distilled or purified bottled water

Instructions:

Coarsely chop the parsley into a cup, then pour in the boiling water. Cover the cup and allow it to steep until it reaches room temperature. Strain off the liquid.

Store unused portion in the refrigerator. Parsley tea should be made fresh daily.

Suggested dosage: 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons, more or less, depending on the size of the dog or cat, 3 times daily, used at short intervals (2 weeks on 2 weeks off).

Additionally, one to two tablespoons of fresh, finely minced parsley can also be mixed into the pets food daily.

Veterinary Uses of Parsley:

Parsley is a diuretic herb that helps to relax spasms and reduce inflammation. It cleanses the blood and helps clear toxins from the body, it also aids in stimulating digestion. It can be used for indigestion, colic and anorexia (poor appetite), cystitis and prostate problems. Due to its folic acid content which plays a big roll in blood vessel and heart health, some claim it inhibits tumor-cell growth, especially in the lungs.

"After" giving birth, it is useful in promoting lactation and contracting the uterus (especially when using the roots and seeds).

Externally, the leaves can help to relieve itchy skin, and bruising.

Contraindications: Herbal products containing concentrated forms of parsley 'especially the seeds and oil' should not be used during pregnancy (may cause contractions) or excessively in animals with kidney disease.

The use of citrus fruits, also mango and some vegetables (celery, parsley) that contain limonene are not recommended for feeding to pet 'male' rats. In the male rat, studies using limonene caused tumors and damage to the kidneys, but a specific protein unique to the male rat is thought to play a crucial role in this damage. Kidney damage is not considered a relevant risk for humans or other mammals.

Tip on how to keep parsley fresh longer: When you bring it home from the grocery store, snip off the ends of the stems. Rinse well and stand in a short glass, with enough water to cover the ends. Rinse the parsley and change the water in the glass daily. It's not only pretty on counter it will stay fresh and hold its medicinal properties for up to two weeks.

For a complete, step-by-step guide to confidently using natural remedies to treat your pets at home, we recommend using Pet Remedy Charts, Herbs, Homeopathy, Flower Remedies and Acupressure to the Rescue for dogs, cats, horses or birds. Using 'safe, side effect free', natural medicines you can treat almost any acute symptom of any disease! The charts are easy to use, simple to understand, economical and endorsed by holistic veterinarians.

Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipe

2011-02-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

HAWAIIAN TWIST
A canine combination of chicken, cottage cheese and sweet potato, along with added pineapple and mango. A twist of tropical flavors that will make your dog sit up and hula-la!

INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 Cup of lowfat cottage cheese,
1 Large, skinless chicken breast
1 Cup sweet potato, baked in skin, peeled and mashed
5 Tablespoons pineapple, fresh or canned, diced and mashed
5 Tablespoons mango, raw, pealed, diced and mashed.

SUPPLEMENT(S):
Essential Fatty Acids — Toy breeds and small dogs 500 mg, Medium and Large dogs 1000 mg (in capsule form) of fish oil daily, (Carlson's fish oil capsules come from a very reputable source, who tests regularly for ocean contaminates).

Vitamins
Add a vitamin and mineral supplement formulated for dogs. Dose according to label directions. Mix well into food right before serving. Pet Tabs or Canine Basic Nutrients made by Thorne Veterinary, are both reputable products.

Calcium
Calcium Citramate - Calcium Malate together has demonstrated superb solubility and superior absorption when compared to other calcium salts. It has approximately six times the solubility of either calcium citrate or calcium malate individually.

A reasonably optimal canine diet should contain a calcium to phosphorus ration of roughly 2 parts calcium to one part phosphorus. Meats are very high in phosphorus and very low in calcium. Since many home cooking recipes recommend fairly high amounts of meat (in general, a good idea for carnivores), there is no reason to supplement phosphorus. Many dog food recipes floating around the internet recommend using bone meal (may contain lead), which fails to take in to account the high phosphorus in the diet. The result is excess phosphorus in comparison to calcium. The solution is to simply feed a calcium supplement to compensate.

Example dog dose for a human product containing 150 to 160 mg of Calcium Citramate: 1/4 capsule for every 15 pounds of body weight, mixed into food twice daily.

PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Unseasoned, grill or roast the chicken and chop it into small pieces. Bake the sweet potato (wrapped in foil) in the oven at 350° until its real soft. Once the sweet potato is cooked, let it cool, mash it and add it to the chicken. Add cottage cheese and mix well. Measure the pineapple, and mango, mash the fruit and mix it in with the other ingredients. Stir in the Essential Fatty Acid, vitamin and mineral and calcium supplement. Recipe yields: approximately 4 cups of food.

How Much To Feed:

Example: If your dog eats 2 cups a day of commercial dog food you would feed the same amount (2 cups) of this recipe, to meet his daily requirements. The same principle applies to a dog who eats 1/2 cup or 1 cup of commercial food daily, they also would receive an equal amount of the homemade diet as what they are used to eating.

Batch Cooking:
Large batches of food can be made by multiplying the recipe's ingredients.

Storage:

Prepared food can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 weeks. Supplement(s) should be added freshly to the food, right before it is fed. Thawing and heating vitamins will degrade them. You can thaw or heat your pets food in a hot water bath. Never use a microwave to cook or reheat you dogs food. Microwave heating changes the molecular structure of the nutrients and proteins in our food.

Rotating the Diet:
Varying wholesome ingredients from day to day lessens the chance of developing food allergies, boredom and exposes the dog to a healthier range of nutrient sources.

For more ideas on keeping your pet healthy visit our website - Pet Remedy Charts.

Homeopathy in Veterinary Dentistry

2011-01-10T18:53:00.000-08:00

Natural Treatments for Dental Abscesses in Pets

In homeopathic treatment of dental abscesses where the animal presents significant facial swelling, the remedy Myristica 30c should be given immediately, followed by a further dose after about 30 minutes, and a subsequent dose one hour later. This will generally reduce the swelling and discomfort, and an incision may be avoided.

Thereafter, Hepar sulph. 6c should be given three times daily, until such time as the tooth may be extracted. Hepar sulph., given in the potency of 6c is the most successful treatment for the subacute and chronic dental abscess. Higher potencies, such as 30c, should NOT be given, since they tend to discourage proper drainage (the retention of pus prolongs the pain or discomfort, and may produce systemic disturbances). Although it is not advisable but sometimes unavoidable such a prescription may indeed be pursued for many months. Where facial swelling is not a dominate feature, Hepar sulph. 6c, may be given from the onset of treatment.

Occasionally, however, other remedies will be required in some animal cases. Belladonna 30c to 200c every hour or two should be considered if the dog, cat or horse is emitting heat from the head, and shows signs of severe throbbing pain.

Consider using Mercurius solubilis 30c three times daily, for cases with gross halitosis and excessive salivation and drooling.

Where the animal is feverish, give Pyrogen 30c three times daily, for a few days, in addition to, any of the selected remedies mentioned above. When alternating remedies, such as Belladonna and Pyrogen give the remedies separately and dose them at least 1 hour apart.

For complete dosing instructions and a step-by-step guide to confidently using veterinary homeopathy to treat your pets at home, we recommend using Pet Remedy Charts, Homeopathy to the Rescue for dogs, cats, horses or birds. Using 'safe, side effect free', homeopathic medicines you can treat almost any acute symptom of any disease! The chart is easy to use, simple to understand, economical and recommended by holistic veterinarians. It is the same chart that is applied in colleges of natural healing as part of their veterinary teaching curriculum.

Laminitis in Horses

2011-01-07T23:42:00.000-08:00

Holistic Treatments for Laminitis in Horses

Equine Laminitis, also called founder, is characterized by a decrease in the amount of blood circulating in the hoof. It is a serious and extremely painful condition with multiple causes.

The horse's hoof is somewhat similar to the structure of your fingernail, but the interior of the horse's hoof is lined with two layers of tissue called laminae. The hardest layer closest to the wall of the hoof is called the 'horny laminae', and the inner layer is called the 'sensitive laminae'. When the blood supply to the sensitive laminae is decreased, they become inflamed. The inflammation causes the union between the horny and sensitive laminae to break down. In severe cases, the bone inside the hoof, called the coffin bone or third phalanx, rotates downward. In advanced cases, the coffin bone may even perforate the sole.

Laminitis is especially common in ponies, although horses of all breeds can be and are affected. The disease can be mild or life-threatening, a one-time deal or an ongoing problem.

A little equine anatomy and the workings of the hoof, will shed a little more light on the complex topic. Horses don't just stand on their feet, what they really do is hang suspended from the inside of their hooves! The coffin bone, which is the bone at the end of the leg, doesn't have to bear much of the horses weight on it's bottom surface. This is because it is actually suspended inside the hoof by tough tissue called the laminae. The laminae hold the coffin bone inside of the hoof, so most of the horse's weight passes down the hoof wall to the ground, for the most part, detouring the sole. The image shows the broad, rough top surface of the coffin bone. The laminae attach to that rough surface and mesh with the corresponding inside surface of the hoof.

Causes of Laminitis in Horses

Laminitis may involve one or all four feet. Commonly known causes include eating excessive amounts of grain, eating too lush pasture grass, drinking cold water while overheated, and being overworked when not in fit condition. Hooves being trimmed to excessively can attribute to the condition. Corticosteroids and certain antibiotics can also induce laminitis.

Symptoms of Acute Laminitis

• Refusal to move, standing with the front legs stretched forward.
• Hooves are hot.
• Increased digital pulse.
• Occasionally, a separation of hoof and coronary band.

Natural Treatments for Laminitis

Call your vet immediately and remove any feed, and access to grass. Do not remove existing hay - keep it available to prevent added stress on the horse.

Stabling

Make sure the horse is on a soft surface. Use peat for bedding to help prevent pressure ulcers on the hips, provide a firm footing for getting up, and good support for standing. Coarse sand may be used if peat is not available.

HydrotherapyWhile waiting for the vet to arrive, cold hose the affected legs at ten-minute intervals for 30 minutes each time.

Cold Treatment

If legs and feet are extremely hot, apply ice over the area until the vet arrives.

Magnet Therapy
Apply magnets to cannon bone area and hoof after the other treatments have all been done.

Acupressure for Acute Equine Laminitis

Apply treatment to points, TH3, TH1, TH5, SI1, LI1, GV14, LU11, and HT9 (To preform the treatment and locate the points, use Pet Remedy Charts, Acupressure to the Rescue for Horses.

Homeopathic Remedies for Acute Laminitis

Aconitum napellus 30c. This remedy should be given at the earliest onset of laminitis when it is first noticed. It can be alternated with Belladonna in acute cases of laminitis.

Belladonna 30c every 30 minutes. Works well when pulse is increased, temperature is elevated, and the horse is sweating. (May be alternated with Aconitum in cases of acute laminitis.)

Nux vomica 30c every few hours. Good in cases of decreased circulation.

For an easy to use, complete guide to remedy, dose and potency in treating horses with homeopathy use Pet Remedy Charts, Homeopathy to the Rescue for Horses.

Chronic Laminitis

Once laminitis has occured and the emergency care completed, follow-up care begins. Each case must be assessed on an individual basis so a care plan can be initiated. X-rays should be taken to determine the position of the coffin bone and your vet and farrier will decide how to reshape the hoof. Generally the toe of the hoof will be rasped back and the heel lowered to achieve realignment. Heel-lowering must be carried out gradually, possibly over several shoeings, to guard against a sudden increase in tension on the deep digital flexor tendon which could cause further rotation of the coffin bone. Use of pads, bar shoes, or wide-web shoes must be decided on a case-by-case basis, according to X-rays, to decide which will make the horse more comfortable.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS
Holistic treatments for laminitis in horses are very effective in treating chronic conditions, though since every case is different there is no specific treatment that will work for all horses.

What are the Chronic Symptoms of Laminitis

Look for these signs to occur after an acute case, and on and off throughout the horse's life after a case of laminitis:
• Lameness that is worse on hard ground.
• Horse landing on the heel of an affected hoof.
• Hoof wall grows differently, with a longer toe, higher heel, and concave front of the hoof wall.
• Rings on the hoof wall appear and the space between the rings is wider near the heel (unlike rings on the hoof wall due to other stress.
• The sole of the hoof may be dropped and very flaky in consistency.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Test - Have your vet Xray the foot.
Shoeing - Consult your farrier as to the best way to reshape and shoe the hoof. Foundered horses often have rapid hoof growth so have your farrier visit as often as every four weeks.

Natural Supplements for Laminitis

• Vitamin C. Give 8 grams per 1,000-pound horse, daily.
• Coenzyme Q-10. This antioxidant is very effective but dosage varies greatly according to symptoms. Consult a holistic vet for dosage best suited to your horse's needs.

Herbs for Equine Laminitis

All herbs listed below can be helpful and a mixture of them all of them will give increased results:
• Clivers. Use to promote lymphatic drainage. Effectively prevents a recurrence. Give 1/2 to 3/4 ounce (15 to 20 grams) twice daily. You can make a compress of clivers tea to help sooth swollen legs.
• Cat's claw. Helps to keep inflammation reduced and promotes circulation. Use 1/4 oz (5 to 10 grams). Caution: Do not give to nursing mares.
• Comfrey. Helps with circulation, and promotes bone and soft tissue healing. Give 1 oz (30 grams) of the dried herb twice daily.
• Nettle. Stimulates circulation. It also contains vitamin C that has antioxidant properties. Feed 1/2 to 1 oz (15 to 30 grams) a day.
• Devil's claw. Has anti-inflammatory properties. Feed 1/2 to 1 oz (15 to 30 grams) daily.

Note: The best place we have found to buy guaranteed, high quality, certified organic medicinal herbs in bulk quantity, is Pacific Botanicals. For precise instructions on dosing schedules and amounts to give use Herbs to the Rescue for Horses, from Pet Remedy Charts.

Homeopathy for Chronic Laminitis

Chronic laminitis requires a professional consultation and homeopathic workup with a holistic vet. To aid in pain management you could try:
• Arnica 30c 2 or 3 times a day for pain.
• Bellis 30c is a deep tissue remedy that could be used for pain if Arnica is not doing the job.
• Hypericum 30c is another good homeopathic pain medicine that is a specific for nerve pain in the feet.
• Symphytum 30c is used to strengthen and fuse bone, also to ease pain.

For specific dosing and potency instructions we recommend Pet Remedy Charts, Homeopathy to the Rescue for Horses, a professional reference guide to treating horses using Homeopathic medicines at home.

Magnetic Therapy

Use the small magnets that you glue onto the front of the hooves to help increase circulation. A magnet may also be applied over the cannon bone area to further stimulate circulation.

Acupressure for Chronic Laminitis

Front legs:
• LI1, LU11, PC9, TH1, SI1, HT9: these points around the coronary band promote circulation.
• TH3 aids with circulation, and helps detoxify the liver.
• Th5 Increases circulation.
• GV14, stimulate this point last to help move the circulation, and Qi.

Hind legs:
• ST45, SP1, KI1, BL67, KI1: these points around the coronary band promote circulation.
• GB44: increases circulation, and decreases fluid retention in the legs.
•Bai Hui: use this point last to help move the circulation and Qi throughout the hind legs.

For a guide to preforming acupressure on your horse and point locations we recommend using, Acupressure to the Rescue for Horses a wonderful quick reference guide to equine home health care.

Kidney Diets for Older Cats

2011-01-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

Homemade Diets and Recipes for Cats With Kidney Disease

Never feed dry food to cats, only canned or home prepared. If you do feed a commercial pet food make sure it does not contain corn, wheat or soy. Never heat your cat's food in the microwave. Warm the pet's food in a hot water bath instead.

When cats get older their kidneys often begin to fail. Because the kidney's job is to eliminate anything unusable from the blood, the goal of this diet is to lighten their load. You can do that by providing minimal levels of protein, phosphorus and sodium in a maximally usable form so that there is a little waste as possible. By feeding a fresh diet, you can also eliminate the artificial preservatives, flavorings and colorings added to many pet foods. This recipe provides about 24% highly usable protein, with low sodium and phosphorus levels and generous levels of B complex and vitamin A.

RECIPE #1

Yield: About 6 cups; provides about 5-6 days food.

1 and 1/3 cups (2/3 lb. ground chicken, turkey or lean heart)
4 cups Well-cooked soft, basmati rice (add an additional 1/2 cup of water to the recipe and cook it longer, this will make it easier to digest).
4 eggs
2 tablespoons of a good cold-pressed oil, (can be alternated with unsalted butter)
1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley, finely grated carrot (optional)
1/8 teaspoon iodized sea salt
1/8 teaspoon potassium chloride salt substitute
1,500 mg calcium
5,000 IU vitamin A
50 mg level vitamin B complex (the equivalent of about 10 mg/day)
2,500 mg vitamin C (1/2 teaspoon sodium ascorbate)
Cat vitamins with taurine (about 5 days worth)

Mix all ingredients together (except the vitamins/supplements) in a large bowl. Bake in a moderate oven for about 20 minutes. Allow to cool, then add the vitamins and mix well. (If you cat has a poor appetite you may have to experiment to some extent to cater to his/her preferences just to keep him nourished). Store in fridge. If you warm your cats food before you serve it DO NOT use the microwave to do it. Instead put the food in a small glass dish in a hot water bath to warm it. Microwaves change the molecular structure of protein. It will also ruin the vitamins.

Variation: Occasionally include a small amount of calf, beef or chicken liver in the recipe (1-3 teaspoons).

RECIPE #2

4 parts carbohydrate: Pureed barley flakes and /or baby food creamed corn
2 parts protein: Lightly broiled chicken or beef or raw organic egg yolk and cooked white (used with meat, not alone) you can also use baby food chicken
1 part vegetable: Chopped of finely grated raw vegetable or vegetable juice-carrots, zucchini, and alfalfa sprouts are best
2 Tablespoons of a powdered feline vitamin and mineral supplement
2 teaspoons soft butter

Blend above ingredients together and store in glass jar.

Each day mix the following into each meal:
A feline vitamin and mineral supplement (follow label instruction)
1/16 teaspoon ascorbic acid crystals or sodium ascorbate powder (250 units Vitamin C)
1/8 teaspoon Pet Tinic (a B vitamin and iron tonic available from the veterinarian) or 1/2 of a low-potency B complex capsule (10 mg level)
1/4 teaspoon or 1/2 tablet mixed digestive enzymes.
Once a week give:
400 units of vitamin E (alpha tocopherol);
A capsule containing 10,000 units vitamin A and 400 units vitamin D.

RECIPE #3

White meat chicken, chicken gizzard plus 2 hard-boiled eggs with a touch of clam juice or chicken broth: 20%
Kidney beans, mashed: 10%
Well-cooked white/basmati rice (I add an additional 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth to the rice cooking instructions and cook it longer. It makes the rice much softer and easy to digest, polenta, barley: 60 %
Parsley, squash, asparagus, carrot kale: 10%

RECIPE #4

Feline Restricted Mineral and Sodium Diet

1 lb. Regular ground beef, cooked
1/4 lb. Liver (beef, chicken or pork only), cooked
1 cup cooked enriched white rice without salt
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 t (5 grams) calcium carbonate
1/8 teaspoon KCI (salt substitute)

Also add a balanced supplement which fulfills the feline MDR for all vitamins and trace minerals, and 250 mg taurine/day.

RECIPE #5

Chicken Mineral Broth

The recipe below is not a specific for renal disease but it is very nourishing and helpful to have on hand if your cat looses interest in food and doesn't want to eat. Nutritionally it can help replace minerals that have been lost if your cat is urinating excessively.

3 lbs. chicken thighs
Water to cover Distilled water is my preference
1/4 cup tomato juice (NOT, V8 Juice)
Add approximately 1 1/2 inch piece of Kombu, (this is a dried sea vegetable) for added minerals

Put all chicken into a soup pot large enough so the chicken fills the pot only halfway. Cover with 'distilled' water until water is one to two inches above chicken. Cover the pot loosely (tip the lid). Bring to a low simmer. Simmer three to five hours, occasionally breaking up the chicken and adding more water if necessary. During the last hour remove the lid and let the water cool down until the chicken is barely covered. Broth is now deliciously strong. Pour off broth, cool to room temperature, and then store in refrigerator.

Pour this broth off and store it with the first batch of broth. Transfer the bones into a smaller pot. Crack them up so they form a fairly compact mass in the bottom of the pan. Cover the bones with water ad add the one-fourth cup tomato juice. Simmer one-half to one hour.

Pour off this broth, again combining it with the other broth. Throw the bones away. Store about two cups of the broth in a jar in the refrigerator; store the rest in the freezer in pint-sized covered freezer containers to be thawed as needed. To thaw, stand the container in a bowl of hot water.

PET REMEDY CHARTS TO THE RESCUE

To learn about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for cats, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure, in home pet health care.

Natural Treatments for Broken Bones in Animals

2011-01-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

Healing Compound and Open Fractures

Fractures in very young animals will usually be less complicated than in older animals yet both can require the same remedies.

If the fracture is extensive enough or the traumatized animal is sensitive, the first remedy that should come to mind to alleviate shock, is Bach Rescue Remedy, in tincture form. Every pet owner should have this remedy on hand, at home and in the car. 10 drops in water should be given immediately and repeated every 15 minutes if necessary. It can be safely administered with prescription drugs or any form of treatment, holistic or conventional, without interfering or causing side effects.

Veterinary Homeopathic Remedies For Healing Broken Bones

Next, a closed, "simple" fracture will require, Arnica montana to help alleviate bruising, pain and shock. Arnica, should be the first homeopathic remedy to be given. It is typically given for soreness and bruising, when the patient feels like "a truck hit me'. Pains are worse by the slightest touch (so the animal shows fear of being touched) and better from cold applications. Arnica is indicated in any blunt trauma where the skin is not opened. Arnica is especially useful to absorb blood under the skin (hematomas). It is also good for muscle pain, falls and accidents causing the animal to go into shock.

After a few days, Ledum palustre will complete the work of Arnica. Ledum acts like a combination of Arnica and Hypericum. It is invaluable in soft tissue bruising. In most cases it will completely relieve traumas after the initial use of Arnica. A keynote for this remedy is bruising that turns violet-blue-black. The pains relieved by Ledum are the type that improve by cold compresses.

Only after the bone is set, or ready to fuse in place, give Symphytum officinal. Symphytum, is the orthopedic specific of the homeopathic herb remedies. This remedy is of great use in non-union of fractures. It is the remedy that will accelerate healing of fractures. It can be so effective at knitting and calcifation that you should make sure the broken bone is aligned correctly (see your vet first).

When there are many fractures at the same time, after Rescue Remedy and Arnica, Silicea will be indicated to renew the "edifice sand", so to speak. Silicea will increase and re-balance the body's needed building materials and aid stamina in the healing process.

An open or "compound" fracture has to be attended surgically, of course, but after the surgery, Calendula 200c, dosed once a day for three days will help heal the wound. Calendula should be available in everyone's first aid kit. It should be routinely used after any surgery or when there is a cut or break in the skin. It acts as both an antiseptic (to prevent infection), and as a healing agent. It can also help control bleeding from open wounds. Just remember, Calendula is used on open wounds, never Arnica.

When there is injury to nerves, due to a surgical cutting procedures or broken bones, Hypericum can be used for pain and to help prevent infection. Afterward, the same remedies used for closed fractures will apply if needed. Homeopathic Hypericum is a great painkiller in any trauma which involves nerve endings: slipped discs in the lower back, also in the neck, crushed feet, toes and tails, also toenails torn away from the nail bed. Hypericum is for sharp, shooting nerve pains. In the past Hypericum was given successfully to avoid tetanus.

There is one unfortunate incident in which fractures are common or where the veterinarian will discover fractures in different stages of healing: the physically abused animal. In this case, after the fractures have been attended to, Staphysagria 6c will be needed to help the animal mentally resolve the indignation it had to endure.

In a case of fractured ribs, where the slightest movement of respiration will cause great pain, Bryonia will bring relief. Bryonia is a great pain remedy for whiplash and broken bones in general, especially if the animal is worse from the slightest movement.

In spite of using Symphytum, sometimes in older or malnourished animals, a broken bone will be difficult or slow to heal. In these cases, Calc. phos. will speed up the process. It favors the formation of callus, or the bony healing tissue that forms around the ends of broken bone.

Note: It is important to remember that only one remedy should be given at a time. Choose a remedy to begin treatment that matches the animal's most important symptoms. You can switch remedies if the symptoms change or if the remedy is not helping. You can also give the remedy in a higher potency if the remedy works well but it's action runs out too quickly. Just make sure to wait an hour before dosing with a new remedy.

For complete dosing instructions, suggested potency and additional treatment options, always refer to Pet Remedy Charts. Homeopathy to the Rescue series for, dogs, cats, horses or birds.

The remedies mentioned in this article (Arnica 200c, Ledum 30c, Symphytum 30c, Silicea 30c, Calendula 200c, Hypericum 30c or 200c, Staphysagria 6c, Bryonia 30c, Symphytum 30c, Calc. phos. 30X) can be found here: The Homeopathic Pharmacy of Veterinary Remedies

Holistic Treatments for Feline Renal or Kidney Failure

2010-10-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

Natural Treatments for Cats with Chronic Kidney Failure

Acupressure, herbs, homeopathy, flower essence therapies, diet and nutritional supplements, will in many cases, be an invaluable adjunct to conventional veterinary care.

Acupressure and Chinese Medicine for Feline Kidney Failure

The kidneys act like roots of a plant, carrying water and nutrients into the body and filtering toxins out. They aid the lungs in extracting moisture from the air and the spleen and pancreas in extracting moisture from food.

The kidneys help the body develop and mature. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is the kidney that gives us our skeletal framework and it is said to rule the bones.

Once the bones are formed, they undergo constant remodeling through out life. The kidney directs the bone marrow and the outer layer of bone called the cortex. If an animal's kidneys are weak at birth, it is usually born the runt of the litter. It may have malformed bones or destined to develop dental problems, arthritis or hip dysplasia.

The sense organ affiliated with the kidney is the ear. Animals with kidney problems often develop sensitivity to noise. They may hide in the closet or under the bed or bolt and run if they are scared. Deficiency in the kidneys will affect an animals disposition, leading to increased fears and insecurities.

The negative emotional association with the kidney is fear. Fear wears down the lubrication mechanism of the body. Think "sweating bullets" or "being scared sh@#less" or animals who urinate when they are frightened. Fear is related to the kidney and the water element.

THE KIDNEY YIN (It's job is to cool the body)

A kidney yin deficiency causes dryness and heat from lack of fluids. In TCM, Yin is what maintains and endures, it is nourishing and supports growth and development. The kidney yin regulates the body's warmth and prevents overheating. Yin fluids moisten, calm and cool. The yin of the kidney is responsible for what it takes to process urine. Its traits are: Cold, coldness and moisture and it is most active during the summer.

The kidney yin helps your pets mouth remain moist and wet with saliva, it moistens the stool, and keeps urine forming in the bladder. This means that if your pet has symptoms such as a dry mouth and increased thirst, constipation and dry stools, or dry skin developing into flaky dandruff, red spots and itching these are signs of kidney yin deficiency. A dry kidney may cause a dry cough to develop because it can take moisture away from the lungs. If there is lack of fluid to fill the bladder, the concentrated urine can burn and irritate the urinary tract, causing the animal to cry out and strain or even have blood-tinged urine and frequent bladder infections.

Your Cat's Thermo-Regulator

The cat's kidneys act like a cooling system because they regulate and moderate body temperature and prevent overheating. A pet that heats up easily is having problems with the yin cooling system of its body. If an animal starts panting when the temperature rises above 65 degrees F. or seeks cool floors over carpeting or shade on a pleasant day, these may be signals for you to suspect kidney problems.

Further indications of a yin deficiency may include a small rapid pulse because there isn't enough fluid in the body to fill the arteries and a red tongue because there isn't enough fluid to keep the tongue pink and moist.

HOLISTIC TREATMENTS FOR KIDNEY YIN DEFICIENCY

The objective is to naturally restore the moisture in the kidneys and related organs. Early treatment strengthens the kidneys and helps prevent kidney failure in the future.

ACUPRESSURE FOR YIN DEFICIENCY

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment can be done as frequently as necessary to strengthen the organs.

POINT WORK

Kidney KI 3. This point strengthens Kidney yin and regulates its energy. It is useful in thirst, low-back pain and weakness, urinary tract infections with scanty urine, dry cough, constipation, dry, hot, itchy skin, heat and noise intolerance.

Location: On the inside of each hind leg, just above the ankle (tarsus), at the midpoint between the Achilles tendon and the jutting of the ankle bone (medial malleolus).

Point work: Hold the point for 30 seconds.

Spleen (SP) 6. This point will moisten and tone the blood and fluids, strengthen the yin and blood of the spleen, kidney and liver. It can be used for thirst, constipation, dry, hot, itchy skin, anemia, insecurity, heat and noise intolerance.

Location: On the inside of the hind legs, just behind the tibia bone and below the beginning of the Achilles tendon that extends from the widest part of the muscle.

Point work: Hold the point or rub up and down for 20 seconds, in the space between the Achilles tendon and the bone.

Conception Vessel (CV) 12. This is the alarm point for the stomach. It is the joining place for the kidney, spleen and liver channels, which will aid all three systems. It will help the stomach work more smoothly with the spleen and pancreas. It is useful for vomiting and nervous indigestion.

Location: On the midline of the abdomen, halfway between the end of the sternum and the umbilicus (navel).

Point work: Hold the point or use a short downward stroking motion, with light to medium pressure for 10 to 15 seconds.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS FOR KIDNEY YIN DEFICIENCY

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan. A classic Yin formula containing: Rehmannia to nourish the yin and the blood, Cornus to nourish the kidney and liver yin, Dioscorea for nourishing the qi, Hoelen to promote urination, Alisma to clear kidney fire and Mountan to clear heat in general.

Dosage for Cats: 1 pill, twice daily.

Alfalfa. A Western tonic herb for the blood, yin and qui. It will help to stimulate the appetite. It is useful for dry skin, hyperacidity of the stomach and developing ulcers.

Dosage: 1/4 teaspoon, once or twice daily. Use the dried herb in a powder form and mix into food.

Vitamin C (buffered): 125 mg. twice daily, given with a meal. NOTE: If there is ulceration in the stomach or a tendency to vomit, or the cat has diarrhea this vitamin may be contraindicated.

Vitamin B Complex: 30 mg, 1 time daily, given with a meal.

Vitamin E: 50 International Units (IU), given every other day.

Enzymes from papaya to aid in digestion. Dose: 1/3 the human dose, daily.

Kelp or other seaweed powder. Dosage for cats: 1/8 teaspoon daily mixed into food.

If muscle spasms develop, add a potassium supplement, such as Potassium Chloride. Dose: 1/6 teaspoon, daily, mixed with food.

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YIN DEFICIENCY

A kidney yin deficiency causes dryness and heat from lack of fluids. So, you will want to use foods that will cool, moisten and calm the animal. Yin foods are usually vegetables and grains, with meat protein being more warming, but providing yin substance. Use grains such as millet and organic brown rice. Peas and kidney beans are associated with the kidney. Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, asparagus, beets, low fat dairy (goat yogurt), Celery juice is very nourishing and cooling to the kidneys, Animal proteins would include, pork, rabbit, eggs, fish such as sardine, clam, cod or mackerel. Avoid warming foods like salmon, chicken, or lamb.

THE KIDNEY YANG (It's job is to warm the body)

In TCM, the yang of the kidney helps WARM the inner parts of the body and it is most active in the winter.

If the body is YANG DEFICIENT it allows COLD to go right to the core of the body and the bones. Yang helps to stimulate the digestive juices of the stomach, spleen and pancreas and the energy of the lungs. If heat doesn't reach the lungs water can accumulate in the chest or the abdomen causing congested, moist breathing. In this state the accumulation of moisture in the abdomen can cause abdominal bloating, vomiting, diarrhea and pain. The animal won't be thirsty because there is too much water being held in the system. The pet will feel cold all the time and want to be covered or close to a heat source.

Overall stagnation and sluggishness will affect the activity of the entire system, including the skeletal system. The bones in the lower back and legs are extremely vulnerable to weak kidney yang. If the yang of the kidney is not active, the fluid in the bone marrow and around the joints may stagnate and only a few areas will be lubricated, which can result in disc problems, bone spurs and arthritis. The areas of stagnation will be painful and unnaturally calcified.

Lack of kidney yang will decrease sexual desire in both males and females. Hormones in general, including those from the adrenal glands and thyroid are affected by the kidney yang. It can also lead to urine dribbling and incontinence which will worsen on rainy days, during cold weather and at night. Because of the lack of yang, the urinary tract is cold which makes the animal unable to concentrate urine adequately, causing frequent urination.

HOLISTIC TREATMENTS FOR KIDNEY YANG DISORDERS

The kidney yang is always involved in the later stages of kidney disease. Treatment is focused on warming the kidneys and preventing possible kidney failure later.

POINTS THAT RESPOND WELL

POINT WORK

Stomach (ST) 36. Master Point for the abdomen and gastrointestinal tract. Improves overall strength, health and resistance to disease. Tonifies Chi. Clears and strengthens the mind. Relieves fatigue. Stimulation of this point benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Relieves urinary problems. NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy it may cause contractions. Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds.

Spleen (SP) 6. Relieves fatigue or weakness. Good point for gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic diarrhea. Regulates the circulatory and urinary systems. Helps relieve pelvic limb problems. Regulates skin and joints, calms the mind. NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy, stimulation can promote labor contractions. Point work: Hold the point for 20 seconds.

Governing Vessel (GV) 4. Relieves intestinal problems and strengthens the urogenital system. Strengthens the lower back and spine. Point work: Hold the point or use a circular motion for 20 seconds.

MERIDIANS THAT RESPOND WELL TO TREATMENT

The Bladder Meridian transforms fluid through storage and excretion. The Bladder Meridian has the unique capability of balancing the entire meridian system. The association points along the Bladder Meridian correspond directly with each of the twelve major meridians. The lower channel of the BM addresses fear, depression, grief and agitation. It responds very well to Moxa treatment. Location: It begins on a point at the inside of the eye (avoid this area in moxa work it is too sensitive). Begin moxa treatment at the shoulders. Then follow the two branches that follow parallel to each side of the spine and flow down the back toward the tail, then continue down the outside aspect of the hind legs.

The Conception Vessel Meridian absorbs overflow of energy from one meridian and redirects it to deficient meridians, and balances the energy throughout the body by moving the chi while it regulates the storage and distribution of Jing throughout the body. Location: The meridian travels the full length of the ventral midline on the cat's body. The meridian begins at the anus and runs between the hind legs, through the genitals and umbilicus (navel), continuing along the midline of the abdomen and through the chest. It goes up the midline of the neck and ends at the lower lip. Your moxa work will comprise the midsection of the meridian.

ACUPRESSURE POINTS FOR YANG DISORDERS

The treatment focuses on warming the kidneys and to prevent possible kidney failure, as both the kidney yin and yang are involved in the later stages of kidney disease.

POINT WORK

Governing Vessel (GV 4). This point warms the kidney yang and activates circulation along the spine. It can be used in weakness of the hind legs, stiffness in the legs, urine dribbling and incontinence due to kidney yang deficiency. It it one of the main warming points of the body and is used to relieve cold.

Location: On the midline of the back between the second and third lumbar vertebrae.

Point work: Use mild finger pressure, in a short back and forth motion over the point.

Urinary Bladder (BL) 23. This is the association point of the kidney and is used to balance the organ. Use it to warm the kidney. It will aid in incontinence, bladder straining, scanty, frequent amounts of urine and weakness and stiffness in the rear legs.

Location: In the depressions in the muscle on both sides of the spine, between the second and third lumbar vertebrae.

Point work: Use your finger do a circular motion outward from the spine or a gentle, rocking, back and forth motion into the point.

Stomach (ST) 36 This point boosts qi in the lower portion of the body. Qi helps the yang and is useful in digestive disorders, abdominal bloating and coldness.

Location: The point is in the middle of the muscle, on the outside of the hind leg. Right below the knee, outside of the main leg bone (the tibia).

Point work: Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds.

Conception Vessel (CV) 4. This point will help to stabilize the kidney, regulate the qi and restore the yang of the kidneys. It is helpful for incontinence, diarrhea and a weak urine stream. It can also aid in irregular ovarian cycles, infertility, loss of libido and low sperm counts.

Location: On the midline of the lower abdomen. Visualize a line connecting the umbilicus (navel) and the pelvis. The point is about two thirds of the way down from the umbilicus.

Point work: Use small circular motions or hold the point for 15 seconds. To enhance the treatment, gently massage the lower half of the abdomen using upward strokes from the pelvic bone to the umbilicus (navel). This will direct the flow of yang and qi upward.

CHINESE HERBS FOR KIDNEY YANG DISORDERS

Golden Book Tea. This is a kidney yin formulation, of Liu Wei Di Huang Wan contains: Rehmannia to nourish the yin and the blood, Cornus to nourish the kidney and liver yin, Dioscorea for nourishing the qi, Hoelen to promote urination, Alisma to clear kidney fire and Mountan to clear heat in general, Cinnamon and a nontoxic form of Aconite, to warm the kidney. It is prescribed for sexual dysfunctions, also for frequent, copious urination that is worse during cold weather and at night, low back pain and weak hind legs, abdominal distention and asthma that worsens during cold weather.

This formula nourishes blood, liver and spleen, will help promote urination, it is useful in thirst, constipation, low-back pain, hot, itchy feet, face and skin, weight loss, insecurity and agitation.

Dosage for Cats: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food.

Wild Carrot. The flowers and upper parts of the plant are used for urinary problems, while the root aids in restoring the sexual organs.

Dosage for Cats: Using tincture, mix 5 to 10 drops in 1 ounce of distilled water. Suggested Dose: 1 dropperful, once or twice daily. NOTE: This herb should not be given to pregnant animals because it can stimulate uterine contractions.

SUPPLEMENTS TO STRENGTHEN KIDNEY YANG

NOTE: If you are using vitamins B or buffered C, remember this is a cold condition and these vitamins may increase the tendency to coldness and diarrhea. If there is ulceration in the stomach or a tendency to vomit, vitamin C may not be tolerated well. If you do use them they should be given in lower doses than what would be normally prescribed for a yin deficiency (see above).

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS

Warming and neutral foods will help nourish the spleen/pancreas and help to balance and warm the kidney yang. Choose grains such as oats, barley, organic brown rice or basmati rice (for better digestion, when cooking rice add more water, meat or vegetable broth than the directions call for, by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, and cook it for a longer period). Choose vegetables (steamed) such as carrots, squash, kale and green beans. For animal protein, use chicken, wild salmon, liver, lamb or rabbit.

NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR FELINE RENAL FAILURE

NOTE: When the cat no longer drinks or urinates, the situation is critical because the kidneys have shut down and toxins are building up, poisoning the body. A cat in acute renal failure MUST be under the care of a veterinarian.

FLUID THERAPY

General support for cats in kidney failure includes proper food, supplements, and regular administration of fluid therapy. Fluid therapy in this situation is not related to dehydration of the cat; rather it is a way to maintain good blood circulation so the body tissues are well nourished. It also helps to remove body toxins by increasing blood flow to the kidneys and by increasing the excreted urine. It does not matter that your cat is 'not' dehydrated. The fluid therapy is essential. Your success in treatment depends to a great degree upon utilization of this therapy. There are some guidelines for home use and some veterinarians may express discomfort with home administration of fluids and teaching this aspect of home care.

The fluids are designed to be given intravenously (by direct injection into the veins), but veterinarians commonly use them subcutaneously (injected under the skin). This is really easy to do, and it works best if the pet owner learns how to do it, so it can be done regularly at home. This saves frequent trips to the veterinary clinic which can become too stressful. Your veterinarian will need to show you how to give the fluids. It is not difficult, but it does take a little practice. It will be one of the most valuable things you will learn and it is too valuable to ignore. If your vet will not assist you, then ask him/her for a referral to someone who will help. You will also need to get the fluids through your veterinarian (some pharmacies stock fluids and are less expensive, but you will need a prescription).

Most often fluids are given daily or every other day, although the frequency may vary from once a week to twice a day depending on the cats condition.

The volume of fluids to be given is approximately 100 milliliters (100cc) per cat. This is usually adequate (some veterinarians recommend more, but I rarely find more to be helpful). I have a better response by adjusting frequency rather than volume to regulate the dosage.

It is crucial that the fluids be warmed prior to administration. Cats in kidney failure are almost always cold and cool fluids will sap their body heat and vital force even further, even if the fluids are at room temperature. Additionally, cats dislike the cold fluids and will associate the procedure with discomfort! Unfortunately, many veterinarians do not warm the fluids first. If you take your cat in for subcutaneous fluid therapy, insist that the bag of fluids be placed into warm water for about ten to fifteen minutes prior to use. Additionally, the tubing that carries the fluid to the needle can be put in a bowl of warm water, as the fluids may cool off during transit through an unheated tube.

Usually, fluids are administered daily (occasionally twice daily) until the cat improves, then taper the frequency to the amount needed to maintain good energy and appetite. In early stages this may be once a week; as the disease worsens it may be needed once or twice a day. Most cats learn to tolerate the fluid therapy very well. Warm fluids feel good to a cold cat, and a tasty treat afterward helps make the association even more enticing. Many cat owners observe that their feline companions seem to learn that they feel so much better after the fluids are given that they actually want to cooperate.

ACUPRESSURE TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC KIDNEY FAILURE

During renal failure, the spleen/pancreas controls the kidneys, and at this stage the spleen is out of control. It must be rebalanced by sedating certain points. The lungs support the kidneys, so specific points have been added to strengthen the lungs so that, the kidneys will also be strengthened.

NOTE: The following 4 points are used together as a sole treatment, twice a week, to strengthen the kidneys. After eight sessions, other points can be incorporated from those listed for both kidney yin and yang deficiencies.

POINT WORK

Spleen (SP) 3. This point is traditionally used for constipation or diarrhea and abdominal distention. It is also the source point of the spleen meridian.

Location: On the lower portion of the inside of the hind paw, midway between the ankle and the toes.

Point work: Use a downward brushing motion along the inside of the hind paw.

Kidney (KI) 3. This is the source point for the kidney, used for thirst, overheating and vomiting.

Location: You will find this point on the inside of each hind leg, just above the ankle (tarsus), at the midpoint between the Achilles tendon the jutting of the ankle bone (medial malleolus).

Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds.

Kidney (KI) 7. This point strengthens the relationship between the lungs and the kidneys, thereby strengthening the kidney. It is used for bladder infections, abdominal distention, back pain, weak legs and excess heat because it regulates the kidney qi.

Location: On the inside of the hind leg, on the border of the Achilles tendon, just below where the muscle bellies end and the tendon begins.

Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 20 seconds.

Lung (LU) 8. This point is used for bronchitis, asthma and breathing problems. It can also help decrease thirst and it is a strengthening point for the lung fluid.

Location: On the underside of the wrist of the front leg. Flex he paw. The point is on the wrist crease at the inside margin of the long bone, the radius.

Point: Use a small circular motion for 20 seconds.

ACU-POINTS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE WITH VOMITING

POINT WORK

Conception Vessel (CV) 12. This is the alarm point of the stomach. It helps to calm the stomach and is used to help stop vomiting and nausea. With light to medium pressure, hold the point or use short downward strokes (in the direction of the tail) for 15 to 20 seconds.

Stomach (ST) 36. Stimulation of this point relieves urinary problems, benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds.

Urinary Bladder (BL) 20. This is a Spleen Association Point. It tonifies the spleen and stomach and nourishes the blood. Reinforces in all chronic diseases and energy depletion. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds.

Herbal Treatment: Chamomile. This Western herb cools and calms the stomach and can be used in conditions affecting the stomach and the kidney resulting in vomiting of food or bile. Make a strong tea by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of flowers. Cover and steep for 30 minutes. Strain and cool. Dosage for cats: 10 drops, once or twice daily.

ACU-POINTS TO STIMULATE THE APPETITE

POINT WORK

Stomach (ST) 36. This point relieves urinary problems, benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds.

Kidney (KI) 3. Helps restore the immune system and strengthens the kidney. It is found on the inside of each leg. Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds.

Herbal Treatment: Alfalfa. This Western herb can be used to stimulate the appetite. Dosage for cats: 1/4 teaspoon of powdered herb, once or twice daily, mixed with food or a treat such as yogurt or cream.

RENAL DIET RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CATS

Protein requirements for animals with kidney disease are generally poorly understood. It is commonly thought that when there is any evidence of kidney disease, the protein level should be reduced. This is not correct for most animals. Protein reduction has little impact upon the progression of kidney disease. In fact, reducing the protein level in the dog or cat's diet may reduce the effectiveness of the kidneys. This is because the amount of blood filtered through the kidneys (the glomerular filtration rate) is tied to protein in the diet, and reducing the protein reduces the filtering, thus decreasing the excretion of toxins.

Some of the toxins that the kidneys excrete (like the BUN) are a by-product of protein metabolism, so the body steps up filtration as protein increases; this improves filtration of all toxins. Normally, this compensates for the increased protein intake. ONLY when the kidney function has reduced beyond a certain level is this inadequate.

Cats with kidney disease should be on a moist food diet (NO dry food what so ever). The cat should be on a high quality protein diet. Reduction in protein is only necessary when the kidney function has diminished to the point that toxins build to a level that affects health. Even then it is only to minimize a symptom of kidney disease, not to minimize the impact upon the kidneys. When the body cannot properly eliminate the protein by-products, these may cause nausea, mouth ulcers, poor appetite, and so on. Reducing the protein and improving the quality of the protein will then lessen the toxicity.

When should the protein level be reduced? Essentially, only reduce protein when its toxic by-products cause illness, and this varies from animal to animal. Practically, there are some guidelines according to blood testing. Protein should not be reduced until the BUN reaches about 80 mg/dl, the creatinine reaches 2.5 mg/dl, and/or serum phosphate levels increase. NOTE: The vets testing should be done when the animal is well hydrated, as dehydration can falsely elevate these values in the test.

In early stages of kidney disease, good results good results can be obtained using high quality protein and extra fat and carbohydrates. High-quality protein sources include eggs, cottage cheese, goat milk, yogurt and ghee (see recipe below). Meats are of lesser quality, but turkey and chicken are somewhat better than red meats. These food sources provide proteins that are easy to digest and break down completely with few by-products and relatively little waste for the kidneys to process. If the diet is low on calories from carbohydrates and fats, there will be a lot of work for the kidneys so make sure to include a good fat and calorie source (See Ghee- Recipe Below).

HOW TO MAKE GHEE (Indian-style clarified butter)

You can make ghee by taking unsalted butter and boiling it over low to medium heat until the water portion evaporates and the milk solids settle out. This takes about ten to fifteen minutes. The butter will foam once after a few minutes, then the foam will subside. It will foam again late in the process, at which time the settled milk solids will turn a golden brown. Remove from heat immediately and allow to cool. Strain through cheesecloth or a strainer into a jar, but don't get any of the milk solids into the jar. This will keep in the refrigerator for a few months, and it can be frozen for long-term storage.

DRINKING WATER
If you can obtain distilled water from a reputable company - that should be the cats only form of drinking water. It will put far less stress on the kidneys. If you can't find good quality distilled water in your area, look for reverse osmosis filtered water or the best filtered, bottled water you can find and use it instead.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Since the kidneys depend upon the bicarbonate ion for part of their function, the addition of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to the food may help many animals. Excessive urine flow washes the bicarbonate ions out of the kidney tissue and the baking soda replenishes the ions. Dose: Just a pinch in the food daily is enough for a cat.

Co-Q 10, will aid in oxygenation, increases energy, aids breathing, lowers blood pressure and eliminates toxins. Dose: 10 mg daily.

Cod Liver Oil supplies vitamin A and D which are necessary to help bone remodeling. Dose: 1/4 teaspoon daily.

Calcium is important as the serum phosphorus level tends to be high and calcium binds some of the phosphorus. Be sure the diet has adequate calcium, but don't add too much.

NOTE: If you decide to choose one of the home prepared renal diets for your cat, follow the recipe, and don't use bone meal as a calcium supplement (with kidney failure) because there is phosphorus in bone meal.

NOTE: You may also choose supplements from those listed under Yin Deficiency (above).

WESTERN HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Alfalfa, nettles, and dandelion are especially good for the kidneys. Make a tea from one or more of these herbs and give about one-half dropperful per ten pounds of the cats weight, three times daily.

Bee pollen, royal jelly, and ghee (Indian-style clarified butter) help nourish the stored kidney energy according to Ayurvedic medicine. Use just a pinch of the bee products and about one-fourth teaspoon daily of the ghee. The ghee will provide the extra fat for calories (very important). If you can purchase ghee at a health food store in your area, be sure it is fresh as it can go rancid on the shelf.

CHINESE HERBS

If there is no vomiting, the basic kidney formula Liu Wei Di Huang Wan can be used. Dose: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food.

Chih Pai Di Huang Wan can be used if there is extreme thirst, insomnia, high blood pressure, hot skin, including the paws, and nervous irritability. The herbs in this formula will aid in clearing false heat. Dose: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food.

HOMEOPATHY AND CHRONIC KIDNEY FAILURE

To help maintain kidney function choose 'one' of the following homeopathic remedies (that best fits your cat's symptom picture). Dose according to the guide on Side 2 of Pet Remedy Charts, Homeopathy to the Rescue for Cats. If you do not have the chart use the dosing schedule here: How to Dose Homeopathic Remedies for Pets.

Arsenicum album 30c

Arsenicum proves its vast application once again by its usefulness in kidney disease. The thirst and chilliness of kidney failure are key notes of the Arsenicum picture. These patients will usually be restless as well, and worse after midnight. Cats needing Arsenicum often hang their heads over the water bowl without drinking. They are thirsty, but drinking probably creates nausea. These animals also show a similar relationship to eating. They act hungry but eat very little. They seek out warm places because they feel chilled and cold.

Mercuris (vivus or solubilis) 30c
Mercurius may benefit many animals when the disease has progressed to the point that mouth inflammation accompanies their other symptoms. There may be ulcers on the gums that cause so much discomfort that the cat can not eat. These animals are often irritable and may desire to be left alone.

Natrum muriaticum 30c
This remedy is another good remedy for animals with kidney failure. According to the "like-cures-like principle Natrum mur. is very useful for thirsty animals such as those with kidney failure. These patients are more likely to be warm than cool, and they will avoid heat or the sun. They also tend to want to be left alone rather than wanting to be petted or receive other attention. They may also be constipated and have dry hard stools.

Sulphur 30c
As the greatest of polychrest remedies, Sulphur can benefit many situations. It is a good remedy to consider for kidney failure if the animal is sluggish and very unkempt looking with a greasy appearance. These types generally care little about grooming, so they put very little effort into it. This is a very striking key note for the use of this remedy in cats because they are usually very fastidious in cleaning themselves. While sulphur patients are generally warm, those in kidney failure are often cold, so don't rule sulphur out if your cat seeks heat. He may not be as chilly as a cat needing Arsenicum (who will hug up to a heat vent), but he may avoid cold areas. These animals will be thirsty but often have poor appetites. They are usually friendly, relaxed, and easygoing.

BACH FLOWER TREATMENTS

Flower Remedies treat negative emotions which make themselves noticeable in the form of physical symptoms. Flower essences work on the mental and emotional aspects of the cat.

Flower Remedies, are virtually non-toxic and not habit forming and can be safely used to enhance or compliment any other holistic or conventional veterinary treatment.

Disease/Critical: To cleanse the body, lift the spirits, give strength and restore the will to live. Olive, Crab Apple, Centaury, Gorse, Scleranthus and Rescue Remedy.

Diarrhea: (to stop uncontrollable diarrhea) Cherry Plumb

Fear: Unknown fears, phobias. Aspen.

Unconscious - Coma: (to restore consciousness) Clematis or Rescue Remedy

Urinary Tract Infection: Water Violet, Agrimony, Crab Apple and Olive.

Vomiting: (to stop uncontrollable vomiting) Cherry Plum

Mixing The Remedy: Dilute the essence or essences by putting 2 drops of each chosen Flower Remedy into a 1 ounce dropper bottle of spring water. Rescue Remedy is used at double the dose of the other flowers — 4 drops into an ounce of spring water. It can be preserved by adding 1 teaspoon of either apple cider vinegar or food grade vegetable glycerine to the dilution bottle. If you don’t add a preservative keep it refrigerated. Avoid touching the dropper.

Dosing The Diluted Remedy: For chronic illness give 4 drops, 4 times daily. During emergency first aid, 4 drops can be given every hour to every few minutes.You can place the essence directly in the cat’s mouth, add the drops to the pet’s food or water bowl or rub it on the inside of the cat’s ears or over the lips and nose. Treatment should be continued until the animal's symptoms are completely gone. If the symptoms return you can start dosing again.

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for cats, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Natural Treatments for Gallstones

2010-08-21T19:42:00.000-07:00

What Causes Gallstones In Pets?

Gallstones (choleliths) are hard, stone-like lumps of cholesterol, from excess bilirubin or bile salts in the bile. When there is too much cholesterol in gallbladder bile, the stone that forms is called a cholesterol stone. When there is too much bilirubin in the gallbladder bile, the stone formed is called a pigment stone.

Eighty percent of gallstones are hardened lumps of cholesterol. These stones are generally yellowish-green in color. Pigment stones are darker in color. Their size can range from a tiny grain of sand to large as a marble.

Bile is made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder, people and animals who have gallstones develop real problems when a stone tries to move through a duct and is too large pass. This obstruction can cause inflammation, infection and damage to the duct itself. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of eyes) and a persistent, sharp pain. Emergency surgical intervention may be emanate. Untreated or long lasting gallstone problems can be fatal.

In the long run prevention is the best bet! Enough can't be said for adjusting the diet to a better one. And early detection may allow you to nip it in the bud. By addressing the early symptoms, before they turn into chronic issues, you have a better chance of balancing the system and treating things while they are still manageable. This strategy more often than not can help you avoid the disease all together.

Vitamin E Treatment for Gallstones

When hamsters were given a diet deficient in vitamin E, all developed cholesterol gallstones. When the vitamin was given again, the stones dissolved. Animals given large amounts of cholesterol or saturated or unsaturated fats developed no gallstone as long as vitamin E was adequate.

Homeopathy for Gallstones in Pets

Homeopathy can be helpful in treating chronic gallstone problems. However, the remedies listed below are not recommendations for home or self-treatment, but as educational information about homeopathy and its use in potential gallstone treatments. It is important to remember that each patient presents unique symptoms and homeopathy is aimed at addressing the individual. So gallstone treatments may vary considerably between different animals or people.

Chionanthus (used for dissolving gallstones)

Calcarea carbonica (for the treatment of exhaustion and sensitivity/pains in upper abdomen)

Belladonna (dilates the cystic duct and alleviates pain)

Berberis vulgaris (for the treatment of pain, joint pain and constipation)

Bryonia (for the treatment of abdominal tenderness, nausea, pain)

Borax (used to dissolve gallstones)

Carbo Veg (for nausea and vomiting)

Cardus Marians (for treatment of an enlarged liver)

Chelidonium majus (for the treatment of nausea, pain and fatigue)

China (gastro-duodenal catarrh)

Cholestrinum, Fel tauri (increases duodenal secretions)

Hydrastis (reduces inflammation)

Lycopodium (for the treatment of bloating and digestive problems and cravings for sweets)

Nat Sulph (for indigestion)

Pulsatilla (anti-inflammatory and amoebia)

Mag phos (reduces spasms)

Colocynthis (for the treatment of cramping)

Dioscorea (for the treatment of flatulence and sudden, shifting pains)

Podophyllum (for treatment of constipation and diaherrea)

Nux vomica (for the treatment of nausea and digestive cramps)

Terebinthinum (distension of abdomen and diarrhea)

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Nutritional Therapies for Dogs and Cats

2010-08-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Guidelines to Giving Supplements

to Dogs and Cats

Can nutrients be used like medicine? Yes. They can play a major roll in the treatment of various disease conditions in dogs and cats. Nutrients are a natural part of the cellular environment. The use of nutrients as part of a therapeutic program for promoting healing and regeneration can help speed up and strengthen the healing response.

The nutrient and supplement list below is not necessarily complete for a given condition. The list is meant to be a general guideline and therefore should be changed or modified based on the assessment of individual cases. The actual dose range suggestions are presented only as a general guide. Actual daily dose depends on species variation, weight, age, physiologic state, and other dietary considerations. The doses given below are for educational purposes and are written in daily amounts. The amount used should be 'divided' and given in smaller portions, 2 or 3 times, as separate doses throughout the day.

Geriatric dog or cat

Supplement: B complex; B1, B2, B6 (5-30 mg), Folic acid, B12 (10-100) Vitamin C (25-4000 mg), Vitamin E (50-200 IU), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Primrose oil (500-200 mg), Fish oil (250-1000), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Dimethylglycine (24-100 mg), Zinc (1-15 mg).

Allergic dermatitis; atopy
Supplement: Vitamin C (500-600 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Primrose oil (1000-3000 mg), Fish oil (500-1500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Canine degenerative joint disease; disk and spinal disorders
Supplement: Perna mussel (300-1500 mg), Glucosamine sulfate (250-1500 mg), Bovine tracheal cartilage 500-2000 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Sulfated minerals: Manganese (2-15 mg), Magnesium (24-300 mg), Zinc (5-30 mg). Silicon (2-10 mg), Vitamin B6 (5-60 mg).

Canine heartworm disease
Supplement: Coenzyme Q10 (20-150 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Vitamin E (100-400 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), L-Carnitine (200-2000 mg).

Canine seizures
Supplement: Betaine HCI (100-300 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-500 mg), Taurine (200-1000 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disorders: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg)

Dilated cardiomyopathy: Vitamin E (50-400 IU)

Congestive heart failure: Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg)

Myocarditis: L-Carnitine (500-1000 mg)

In addition to the specific supplements: Taurine (100-1000 mg), Selenium (5-50), Fish oil (250-1000 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg).

Colitis - inflammatory bowel disease

Supplements: N-Acetyl glucosamine (250-1000 mg), Glutamine (250-3000 mg), Lactobacillus acidophilus (20-500 million microorganisms), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-200mg), Vitamin C (250-3000).

Chronic diarrhea

Supplements: N-Acetyl glucosamine (250-1500 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-200 mg), Lactobacillus acidophilus (20-500 million microorganisms), Glutamine (250-3000 mg).

Lingering illness
Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Vitamin E (100-400 IU), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg), Digestive enzymes (10-200).

Connective tissue disorders: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg).

Arthritis: Perna mussel (300-1500 mg).

Hip dysplasia: (Glucosamine sulfate (250-1500 mg).

Sprains: Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

In addition to the specific supplements: Glycosaminoglycans (100-1000 mg), Primrose oil (250-1000 mg).

Canine Demodicosis (red mange or "demodex")

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Primrose oil (250-1500 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Diabetes mellitus

Supplements: Chromium (50-300), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), N-Acetyl glucosamine (200-1500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg).

Feline hyperthyroidism

Supplements: B complex vitamins; B1, B2, B6 (2-10 mg), Coenzyme Q10 (10-60 mg), Primrose oil (250-1000 mg).

Feline immunodeficiency virus

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (5-30 mg), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-200 mg).

Food intolerance

Supplements: Pantothenic acid (20-150 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), B complex vitamins: B1, B2, B6 (4-40 mg), Folic acid (50-200 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg).

Lyme disease

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Fish oil (250-1500 mg), Perna mussel (250-1500 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Neoplasia The growth and development of benign or malignant tumors.): Shark cartilage (5-40 g).

Vascular tumors (a growth (benign or malignant) formed from blood vessels): Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg).

Melanoma (cancer of the pigment producing cells in the skin): Vitamin C (1000-10,000 mg).

In addition to the specific supplements: Dimethylglycine (50-500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

Periodontal (gum) disease

Supplements: Coenzyme Q10 (10-100 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Bioflavonoid complex (200-1500 mg).

Cataracts

Supplements: Glutathione (50-250 mg), Vitamin C (500-4000), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Dimethylglycine (100-400 mg).

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Healing With Color

2010-08-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

Chromotherapy for Pets

It may sound like hocus pocus to some but human hospitals have been practicing it for years, starting with green hospital gowns and painting the rooms in pale blues or green. Light therapy (phototherapy or conventional ultraviolet light phototherapy) is used in hospitals by doctors to treat high bilirubin blood levels in infants and in dermatology to treat skin disorders such as acne or psoriasis. Light therapy is also commonly used to treat patients who experience seasonal affective disorder (living in areas where there is less sun light can cause depression and emotional disorders in some people).

The marketing industry knows that color affects mood and uses it strategically in advertising and packaging to increase sales. The restaurant industry caught on long ago when they started decorating walls in vibrant colors and upholstering booths in bright reds and oranges. Festive colors stimulate people, which makes them want to eat more quickly and that means a higher turn over in customer seating.

Clinical Effectiveness

Every substance on earth contains color. Even the rays cast on earth by celestial bodies contain color in the form of white light. The rays of the sun contain seven different colors violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. These are natural colors which are highly beneficial to the maintenance of health and for healing disease.

Sunlight is the principal curative agent in nature’s laboratory and where light cannot enter, disease will. Anemia, cancer, emaciation, muscular debility, degeneration of heart and liver, edema, softening of bones, nervous excitability, physical deformity, stunted growth and respiratory problems can result from the lack of the beneficial effects of suns light.

Light and color therapy can also be used to enhance the healing capabilities of animals.

If animals cannot see all colors, how can we use colors to treat them?

We know that dogs see Violet, Indigo, Blue, Yellow and Red, including various shades of these colors. Green, Yellow and Orange are too similar to dogs for them to tell them apart. Cats see Purple, Blue, Green and Yellow. Red, Orange and Brown appear as shades of Grey or Purple. Still, color therapy has been successfully used in dogs, cats and horses, as well as pocket pets and birds.

What we need to remember is that each color has a specific wavelength and frequency. The body absorbs light in this energetic form, regardless of what the eyes see. So, Red at a wavelength of 780 to 622nm or a frequency of 384 to 483 THz (depending on the shade) has a different effect on the body than the color Blue at 492 to 455 nm or 610 to 659 THz (Tera hz). Color healing or light therapy works on all bodies due to their response to these differences in light frequencies.

The Energetic Color wheel
The Energetic Color wheel, it is divided into 12 colors in 4 sections. The Median Color Green; the Infra Green colors: lemon-green, yellow, orange and red; the Ultra Green Colors: Turquoise, Blue Indigo and Violet; the Circulatory/Reproductive/Emotional Colors of Scarlet, Magenta and Purple. Green brings the physical body into balance, Magenta the emotional body. Each color influences the body in it’s own way.

Calming colors such as greens and blues can be left in the cage of an animal in the form of colored blankets or towels. It can even help without special lighting.

The action and effect of various colors and their healing qualities:

Red: Symbolic of heat, fire and anger, it is a stimulating and energing color. It stimulates arterial blood and brings warmth to cool extremities. Used as a general tonic, it is very valuable in the treatment of disease like low blood pressure, rheumatism, paralysis, Anaemia and advanced cases of tuberculosis. Do not use this color if there is heat in the body such as inflammation or fever.

Orange: Symbolic of prosperity and pride, orange is useful for stimulating blood supply and energizing the nerves. It is beneficial in the treatment of kidney and gall stones, hernia and appendicitis. It is also used to stimulate milk production after giving birth. Do not use this color if there is heat in the body such as inflammation or fever.

Violet: Violet is beneficial in the treatment of nervous and emotional disturbances, arthritis, acute cases of consumption and insomnia.

Yellow: Associated with joy and happiness, yellow is laxative and diuretic. It is a stimulant to the brain, the liver and the spleen. It is also effective in the treatment of diabetes, indigestion, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, eye and throat infections, syphilis and impotence.

Purple: Purple or indigo combines the blood-warming red and the cooling antiseptic blue. It is an excellent stimulant without being an irritant. It is beneficial in the treatment of advanced stages of constipation, hydrocele, and leucorrhoea, many disorders of stomach and womb, cataract, migraine and skin disorders. It exerts a soothing effect on the eyes, ears and the nervous system.

Green: Made up of blue and yellow, green is regarded as a color of harmony. It is a mild sedative. It is useful in the treatment of nervous conditions, hay fever, ulcers, influenza, malaria, colds, sexual disorders and cancer. It preserves and strengthens eyesight. Being highly medicinal and depressive, it is of great help in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Blue: Cool, soothing and sedative, blue alleviates pain, reduces bleeding and heals burns. It is beneficial in the treatment of dysentery, colic, asthma, respiratory disorders, high blood pressure and skin aberrations. In a study at the New England state Hospital in the United States, 25 members of staff with normal blood pressure were bathed in blue light for half an hour. It resulted in universal fall in blood pressure. The blood pressure rose when the red light was applied.

Methods and Instructions

Charged Water Method

In this method, colored glass bottles are used. These bottles should be sterilized and filled to three-fourths full with distilled water. The bottles should be capped or corked and then placed in bright sunlight for three to four hours. After this exposure, the water is said to acquire medicinal properties and this color-charged water can be used in both internal and external applications. Externally, wounds and ulcers can be washed with the treated water and it can also be used to massage the affected parts or it can be applied as a compress.

Internal Dosage Suggestions for Pets, any animal can be given from 1 to 30 ml (depending on size). Tiny animals 1 ml., small cats or dogs, 5 ml, Medium dogs 10 ml, Large dogs 15 ml and Giant breeds or horses 30 ml. of colored-charged water as a single dose. The dose can be repeated as necessary. Human doses can be broken down the same way. The adult dose for a human would be 30 ml.

Direct Light Method

The easiest way to achieve the effect is by using naturally dyed silk cloth, colored pieces of glass, cellophane or translucent vellum (from an art supply store). Put the colored material of choice in front of a 25-40 Watt bulb or flashlight. For use in rehabilitation the animal can receive whole body tonation. Or the light may be focused directly on the affected parts (using the beam from a strong flash light). For therapeutic benefit, light therapy treatments should last 30 to 60 minutes.

Contraindications

There are some important contraindications to color treatment which should be kept in mind while using this method of healing. For instance, the red color would be injurious in inflammatory conditions, and in cases of fever and excitable temperament. If the red light is employed for too long and frequently, it may produce fevers. The danger can be eliminated by only using the red light for a few minutes at a time or by placing a wet compress over the head, neck or belly region.

Similarly, yellow should not be used when an animal is nervous or irritable. Yellow and orange or reddish tones should not be used during fevers, acute inflammations, diarrhea, neuralgia, palpitation of the heart and any condition of an over excited system.

In cases of paralysis, chronic rheumatism, respiratory disorders and in all cold, pale and dormant conditions of the system, blue, indigo and violet many prove to be too cooling and stagnating and should be avoided in these conditions.

Color Therapy also Plays a Roll In Diet

A balanced diet is essential during any treatment of disease. The patient should be given food items with analogous coloring.

The various colors contained in different food items are:

Red: Beets, tomatoes, watercress, most red-skinned, fruits, red berries and water melon.

Orange: Orange-skinned vegetables and fruits such as carrot, apricot, mango, peach and papaya.

Violet: Dark berries

Yellow: Yellow squash, pumpkin, melon, banana, mango, yellow apple.

Purple: Foods having both blue and violet coloring.

Green: Most of the green vegetables and fruits such as gourds, spinach, plantain, romaine lettuce, pea, green mango, gooseberry, pears, beans.

Blue: Blue plum, blue beans, berries.

Special Note: It is extremely important when treating any animal to maintain positive energy and a gentle approach. All beings, especially wild or injured animals or companion animals that are afraid and out of their element, sense their surroundings. Being mindful to be calm and quiet when tending to these patients, this will decrease their anxiety and encourage faster healing on their part. Make their habitat an area of safety where the animal does not constantly feel exposed and learn about the habits of individual species to further decrease stress and increase their comfort level as they heal.

Herbs in Science - Chilli Peppers

2010-08-17T09:33:00.001-07:00

Capsaicin Belly Rub

New research from the University of Cincinnati (UC) shows that a common, over-the-counter pain ointment rubbed on the skin during a heart attack could serve as a cardiac-protectant, preventing or reducing damage to the heart while interventions are administered. These findings are published in the Sept. 14 edition of the journal Circulation.

Keith Jones, PhD, a researcher in the department of pharmacology and cell biophysics, and scientists in his lab have found that applying capsaicin (cap-SAY-isin) to specific skin locations in mice caused sensory nerves in the skin to trigger signals in the nervous system. These signals activate cellular "pro-survival" pathways in the heart which protect the muscle. Capsaicin is the main component of chili peppers and produces a hot sensation. It is also the active ingredient in several topical medications used for temporary pain relief. Capsaicin is approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Jones is working with Neal Weintraub, MD, a UC Health cardiologist and director of UC's cardiovascular diseases division, and other clinicians to construct a translational plan to test capsaicin in a human population.

"Topical capsaicin has no known serious adverse effects and could be easily applied in an ambulance or emergency room setting well in advance of coronary tissue death," Jones says. "If proven effective in humans, this therapy has the potential to reduce injury and/or death in the event of a coronary blockage, thereby reducing the extent and consequences of heart attack."

Researchers observed an 85 percent reduction in cardiac cell death when capsaicin was used.

They also found that a small incision made on the abdomen triggered an 81 percent reduction.

"Both this and the capsaicin effect are shown to work through similar neurological mechanisms," Jones says. "These are the most powerful cardioprotective effects recorded to date.

"This is a form of remote cardioprotection, using a skin stimulus that activates cardioprotection long before the blocked coronary artery is opened."

Weintraub adds that this finding offers an important distinction between existing therapies.

"All of the current interventions require the vessel to be opened before doctors can act, and since it takes time to elicit protection, tissue dies," he says. "This treatment will protect the heart before the vessel is opened while producing a strong protective effect that is already active when we open the vessel."

Jones and Weintraub think that skin—the main sensor and largest human body organ—has evolved to protect animals, including humans, in a variety of ways.

"By activating these sensors in the nervous system, via skin, we think that a response to preserve and protect the heart is triggered," Weintraub says.

"We think that this technique is fooling the body into sending out protective signals," Jones adds. "This may be similar to the way certain acupuncture treatments work; there may be a neurological basis. In a broad sense, this work may provide a 'Rosetta stone' for translating alternative medicine techniques—like acupuncture—to Western medicine. Perhaps we can understand the biological mechanisms of how alternative treatments may be successful for patients."

Now, researchers will further explore this concept by investigating which sensors are associated with certain aspects of organ protection—and how much of specific stimuli are needed to produce the desired responses.

"This could help create favorable outcomes for those who are experiencing stroke, shock or are in need of an organ transplant, and the best part is that it is done non-invasively and is relatively inexpensive," Jones says.

We warn against rubbing capsaicin on your belly if you feel like you are having a heart attack and we warn you against rubbing it on your pet's belly if you think they are in heart failure. But it might be handy to keep some in your first aid kit, to use in a crisis on the way to the hospital or the vet!

We don't know if it will work for all indications, for all patients, and we don't know if it will work over an extended amount of time. A major goal is testing this therapy in clinical trials, but we still need to study more about dosage and application—where we put it on the body for the best results. However, this has tremendous clinical potential and could eventually save lives.

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Parrot Behaviour Consultant

2010-08-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had the privilege of meeting, Yvonne MacMillan, via correspondence through the internet. She is a parrot behavior consultant and operates, The Island Parrot Sanctuary. It is the first Parrot Sanctuary to become a registered Charity in Scotland. I would like to share a story she sent me in one of her emails, pertaining to the work she does with rescued birds.

Yvonne MacMillan
Island Parrot Sanctuary
United Kingdom (Great Britain)

These birds were brought to us at the age of 40 years old. Their names are Charley and Jacob (Jacob left and Charley right). Charley is in the next photo with Bob eight weeks later. Jacob was beaten with a stick and found life very hard. Trust was a big issue as it was with Charley.

I was contacted by a rescue centre in Wales, England. I work with the special needs birds. We are a rescue centre for Parrots located on a small, quiet, Scottish Island, which is a Sanctuary in its self and gives the birds the tranquil peace that they need to heal.

Charley was deemed to be highly aggressive as was Jacob. They had been fed with tongs as they would bite badly if handled. In my experience these birds are just afraid and need time to trust and relax. Charley was the most naughty, but oh what a darling. He would say "Thank You" in a Welsh accent then take what ever you had to offer. He had badly self-mutilated his body, as you can see in the photo. but today he is a majestic wonderful boy with his plumage growing day by day. (after photo, shown below)

I worked with my wonderful avian vet Alistair Lawrie but also used herbs to help him heal. Milk thistle to take the anger from his liver. Aloe to sooth his skin and love to help him trust. Charley has now found a lover in a blue and gold macaw who goes by the name of Kimmy. They are full of naught behavior and fun. They have a stalker by the name of sparky who has a passion for big birds. She is a Red Rump Parakeet (Female). It is funny to see the three birds sleeping together with little sparky squeezing up to the Macaws. I work as an avian behaviorist in Scotland and I am always amazed at how many times birds prove you wrong with their behavior.

Jacob, will take a little bit longer to heal. He is now like a pin cushion with new feathers poking through his skin. He has went through hell and back in his life. He was taken from the wild and then past from pillar to post. he ended up in the gentle hands of a lady called Scarlett, who sent him to me as I tend to work with special needs. Jacob is doing so well but is being helped with good food and love. He has the rain on his back and the sun on his feathers now.

I am so looking forward to using your Pet Remedy Charts. Any information I can get to make the lives of these wonderful creatures better is a God send.

From,
Yvonne MacMillan
Island Parrot Sanctuary
Kerrera Argyll

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We would like to thank Yvonne for sending the pictures and the story, and we encourage you to visit The Island Parrot Sanctuary website. It is a wonderful informational site pertaining to parrots and their care.

Here is a great article that can be found on the Sanctuary's website called Recognizing Illness in Parrots

Here is a link to some heart touching videos of Yvonne's work with the parrots at the Sanctuary.

While you are visiting the website PLEASE don't forget to DONATE. It is a registered non-profit charity. The Sanctuary has over 50 parrots and they need your help.

Any Donations are welcome no matter how small. Every penny donated is used for the parrots, to provide them with food, toys, heated aviaries and lots more!
PLEASE HELP...