ReportWire

Tag: dogs

  • Supplements to help dogs and cats live longer | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Support your aging dog or cat with targeted supplements that promote joint health, digestion, cognitive function, and overall vitality — helping them stay happy and active in their golden years.

    As our beloved dogs and cats get older, their health needs change and evolve. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, and veterinary care form the foundation of wellness. Supplements can add an extra layer of support, especially as animals age. 

    Thoughtfully chosen supplements can ease age-related challenges and boost vitality. With the right support, your pet can comfortably enjoy their golden years. This article highlights supplements to help dogs and cats live longer. We’ll cover vitamins, antioxidants, joint support, Omega-3s, and probiotics.

    Common focus areas for supplements include overall wellness, joint support, digestive health, and addressing vitamin or mineral deficiencies. To simplify the world of supplements, let’s explore how they can address these specific needs. 

    1. Joint support: keep older dogs and cats active 

    Years of joyful romping put wear and tear on your best friend’s joints. As dogs and cats age, joint health becomes especially important. Supplements can play a major role in keeping them mobile and active.

    According to research published in the American Journal of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, “Chinese herbal medicine serves as a complementary option to acupuncture, promoting overall joint health. Nutraceuticals, such as glucosamine and Omega-3 fatty acids, may also contribute positively to joint health.”

    Manufacturers formulate joint supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, and MSM to rebuild cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. 

    “Omega-3 fatty acids, well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties, also ease joint stiffness in pets with arthritis,” says veterinarian Dr. Berkcan Yanar. “Combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, these supplements help preserve mobility and alleviate discomfort.” 

    Format 

    You’ll find joint supplements for animals in various forms like chews, powders, and liquids. Premium brands often charge more because they include higher concentrations or extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

    Considerations 

    Your animal may experience mild digestive upset when starting a joint supplement. Always follow proper dosage instructions and consult your vet, especially if your dog or cat is on medications. 

    2. Omega-3s: offer support for overall health

    Omega-3 fatty acids are celebrated for their wide-ranging benefits, from promoting a shiny coat to reducing inflammation. They support the skin, joints, heart and even cognitive health. 

    “DHA is particularly beneficial for brain and eye function in senior pets, while EPA helps reduce allergies and inflammation,” notes Dr. Yanar. 

    Format 

    You can buy Omega-3s in various forms, including liquids, capsules, and infused treats. Companies charge more for sustainably sourced, highly purified Omega-3s, but these options offer better quality.

    Considerations

    Excessive doses may cause mild issues like soft stools or a fishy odor. In rare caes, they may affect blood clotting. A quality product is crucial. Rancid oils don’t just lose effectiveness — they can actually harm your dog or cat’s health.

    3. Good gut health: probiotics and prebiotics

    A healthy gut is fundamental to overall wellness, influencing digestion, immunity, and even mood. Probiotics contain live bacteria to maintain gut balance, while prebiotics nourish these beneficial bacteria. These supplements can relieve diarrhea, constipation or stress-related digestive issues.

    Format 

    Manufacturers typically sell probiotics in powders, capsules, or chews. They set prices based on the number of strains and the CFU count in the product. Some formulations include both probiotics and prebiotics for added benefits.

    Considerations 

    Some animals may experience minor bloating as their guts adjust. Follow storage instructions carefully, since mishandling can reduce the effectiveness of live strains. 

    4. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants: broad-spectrum wellness

    While high-quality diets often cover most nutritional needs, senior dogs and cats or those with specific health concerns may benefit from targeted supplementation.

    Vitamins E and C, both antioxidants, help combat oxidative stress and slow cellular aging and degeneration. Multivitamins offer a broad-spectrum boost of essential nutrients. They’re especially helpful for animals that have poor appetites or trouble absorbing nutrients.

    Format 

    You can find vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in tablets, chews, or powders. Higher-quality blends typically come with a higher price tag. Your vet can recommend the brands they believe are most effective. 

    Considerations

    Avoid over-supplementing with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), since they can build up to toxic levels. Review your dog or cat’s diet with your vet to prevent duplicating nutrients and identify potential allergens.

    Boost your dog or cat’s longevity with smart supplement choices 

    Dietary supplements don’t replace a balanced diet, regular exercise, or routine vet care. Still, they offer valuable support for your aging dog or cat’s well-being. By thoughtfully integrating supplements to help dogs and cats live longer, you’re adding years to their life while enriching those years with vitality and joy. 

    A little extra care today can result in more cherished moments tomorrow. Always consult your vet (see sidebar on page xx) to ensure you’re making the right supplement choices for your four-footed friend’s golden years. 

    Why supplements matter for aging animals 

    Like humans, dogs and cats can benefit from supplements designed to address nutritional gaps or declining organ function.

    “Dogs and cats face challenges as they age, such as a reduced ability to regulate inflammation or maintain musculoskeletal health,” says veterinarian and herbal medicine expert, Dr. Jenelle Kim. “Supplements with ingredients such as astragalus, turmeric and MSM can support graceful aging and vitality.”

    The golden rule: always consult your vet

    While the potential benefits of supplements for your aging dog or cat are exciting, a veterinarian’s input should always guide your decisions. 

    “Each pet’s needs are unique, influenced by factors like breed, medical history, and current medications,” says Dr. Yanar. “A tailored supplement plan ensures the benefits outweigh the risks.”

    Your vet can help you: 

    • Identify needs: Determine if symptoms, such as stiffness, are age-related or indicate a deeper issue. 
    • Select reputable products: Not all brands are equal. Your vet can recommend those with proven safety and efficacy. 
    • Customize dosages: Too much or too little of a supplement can be ineffective or harmful. 
    • Monitor for interactions: Avoid adverse effects with medications or existing conditions.  `


    Post Views: 29


    Christine Caplan is a Certified Vet Tech, and a long-time PR veteran and content marketing expert who brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three hounds – two “doxies” and a beagle/basset hound mix – who constantly teach her about life and companionship (mylifewithdogspdx.com).

    [ad_2]

    Christine Caplan, CVT

    Source link

  • How to help a newly adopted senior dog adjust | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Discover ways to help your senior dog adjust to his new home with tips on building trust, easing anxiety, creating routines, and supporting age-related needs.

    Adopting an older dog is very rewarding. Whether his soulful eyes or gentle energy drew you in, you’re giving him the chance to live out his life surrounded by love. After you bring him home, the next step is to adapt him to his new circumstances. Let’s explore how to help a newly adopted senior dog adjust and what this transition involves. You’ll also learn how to support him as he builds trust and establishes new routines.

    Help your senior dog settle in

    In rescue and training circles, we often talk about the “power of threes,” the first three days, three weeks, and three months after adoption. It gives you a general idea of how long it can take for a dog to settle in and feel like part of the family.

    1. First three days: Your new dog might be in shell shock. He’s taking in all the new smells, sounds, people, and routines. Don’t be surprised if he seems reserved, anxious, or even shut down. This is normal.
    2. Three weeks in: You’ll likely see your older dog start to relax a bit. He might follow you around more, engage with toys, or show curiosity about his environment. “Testing the waters” just means he feels safer expressing himself — and that’s a good thing.
    3. At three months: This is when you and your dog truly start to bond. Your senior dog will begin to understand the household routine and feel like part of the family. You’re forming habits, building trust, and learning more about each other every day. 

    Establish a potty routine from day one  

    Even senior dogs may need help with potty training in a new environment. It’s best to assume your new friend isn’t housetrained in your home. Stress, new routines, and unfamiliar surfaces can all lead to accidents. Schedule a meet-and-greet with your veterinarian early to check your dog’s overall health. If accidents continue, your vet can rule out underlying issues. 

    • Take your dog out often, especially after eating, napping, or playing.
    • Go with him and keep him on a leash so you can watch and guide him if needed.
    • If he goes in the right spot, praise him softly and give him a small treat.

    Hint: If he has an accident in the house, just clean it up and head back outside. No scolding.

    When you stick to a consistent routine, your dog learns what to expect. Potty training isn’t just about where to go; it’s part of helping him adjust to his new home.

    Expect some separation anxiety from your senior dog

    It’s common for newly adopted senior dogs to become anxious when left alone. They’ve been through a lot of change and loss, and it’s natural for them to feel unsure when their new person disappears.

    • If your dog follows you constantly, whines when you leave, or panics when alone, it’s time to slowly help him acclimate. Start by stepping out for just a few seconds, then come right back in. Build from there. Practice short absences. Pair your leaving with a high-value chew or stuffed food toy. Don’t sneak out, just calmly go and return, over and over.
    • You can use a pet cam or baby monitor to check on your senior dog while you’re away. That way, you can keep him safe and gradually build up time apart without causing panic.
    • If your dog isn’t ready to be left alone for long, adjust your schedule as much as you can to accommodate his needs. You want to avoid pushing your dog past his threshold while you work on building his comfort and confidence.

    Hint: Ask family or friends to help or line up a dogsitter.

    This kind of training takes time, but with consistency and patience, your senior dog can learn that good things happen when you leave — and most importantly, that you always come back.

    Modify your dog’s training for his age and ability

    Keep in mind that your senior dog may have hearing or vision loss, and mobility issues. If he can’t hear well, use clear hand signals or gentle touch cues to teach him what you need. For vision loss, keep the environment consistent and use voice cues or movement to help guide him. Train in the same spot every session to help him understand what to expect.

    If your senior dog struggles with mobility, avoid asking him to sit or lie on hard surfaces. Reinforce what’s comfortable, such as standing calmly, making eye contact, or touching your hand when you reach out. Place non-slip runners and soft beds around your home to help your senior dog feel more comfortable.

    Hint: Older dogs can learn. You just need to tweak things to fit their abilities.

    Keep training sessions short. One to three minutes is plenty in the beginning. Use tiny treats or part of their daily food as rewards and always end on a win.

    Keep your older dog’s mind engaged 

    Even if your senior dog isn’t learning new cues, he will still benefit from gentle enrichment. Short, simple activities can help reduce restlessness, boost confidence, and bring a little spark to his day.

    • Use snuffle mats, rolled towels, or a flexible silicone muffin tin for food games.
    • Play a slow game of “find it” with treats or favorite toys hidden around the room.
    • Offer soft chews or stuffed toys he can work on without frustration.
    • Take short walks in quiet areas, letting your dog sniff and explore at his own pace. If that’s too much, use a stroller so he can ride comfortably and still enjoy the experience.

    You don’t need loud or high-energy activities — just offer simple ways for your dog to think, sniff, and stay engaged. 

    Take it slow and keep it simple 

    It takes time for a senior dog to adjust to his new home, and to learn new things. Some days might feel slow or uncertain. That’s okay. Your dog is still figuring things out, and so are you.

    Stick to simple routines. Give your dog space when he needs it and connect when he’s ready. Your training sessions might not look perfect — and that’s okay. What matters is helping your older dog feel safe, settled, and part of the family.

    Hint: Celebrate the small things. A soft glance. A quiet tail wag. His willingness to lie near you instead of across the room. That’s how trust builds.

    Now turn off your computer, put your phone down, and go spend some time with your senior dog. A short walk. A gentle brushing session. A shared snack on the couch. Any time you spend with your new friend means everything to him.

    Your new senior dog: start with trust, not training

    Your older dog may have gone through big changes recently: losing a home, losing a person, moving between shelters or fosters. Even if he came from a loving situation, everything around him is unfamiliar now. Give him time. Let him move at his own pace.

    Instead of jumping into training routines right away, give your senior dog time to decompress and get comfortable. Keep things low-key. Sit on the floor with him. Speak softly. Hand-feed him a few meals to help build his trust. The goal when helping a newly adopted senior dog adjust isn’t obedience — it’s connection.

    Helping an older dog with cognitive changes

    Some older dogs begin to show signs of cognitive decline. You might notice confusion, pacing, restlessness, or changes in how your dog responds to daily routines. He may seem unsettled at night, wander more, or forget things he used to know.

    • Keep your dog’s days predictable. 
    • Feed meals at the same time. 
    • Use the same walking routes. 
    • Avoid major schedule changes whenever possible.  
    • Stick to quiet, familiar spaces and avoid overstimulating environments.

    If your older dog seems lost or unsure, speak calmly and guide him gently. Give him time to process what’s happening around him. He may need more breaks, more sleep, and more reassurance.

    Also keep in mind that older dogs with cognitive decline may not need to learn anything new. They just need to feel safe, at ease, and part of everyday life.


    Post Views: 30


    Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who has traveled the US promoting positive ways of preventing and managing behavior issues with a holistic approach. Named one of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs with humane, positive training methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care, and other books. Tonya offers group and private dog training classes, provides training and behavior services via phone and online, and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com).

    [ad_2]

    Tonya Wilhelm

    Source link

  • 10 Plant Partnerships That Will Triple Your Harvest (Gardeners Shocked!) –

    [ad_1]

    I learned that one simple gardening trick can boost harvests quickly while cutting pest numbers almost in half. The trick is companion planting: nature’s way of helping plants work better together.

    After many seasons of trial and error, this method turned my weak veggie beds into a healthy, busy garden in no time.

    No need to stress about fancy layouts. These 10 plant partners work well with little effort. Ready to match plants the easy way? Let’s go.

    Plant Partners That Work Wonders

    1. Tomatoes & Basil: A Reliable Match

    This pair isn’t just delicious on the plate. Basil’s strong smell helps keep away pests like aphids and hornworms that usually bother tomatoes.

    Growing them together can even make tomatoes taste better. (Seriously. My tomatoes tasted so much better once I planted basil beside them.)

    2. Carrots & Onions: A Simple Defense

    Carrot flies can wipe out a crop fast, but onions help block them. In return, carrots help loosen the soil for onion bulbs. They just work well together.

    3. Corn & Beans: The Old “Three Sisters” Duo

    This old planting method makes sense. Beans add nitrogen to the soil, which corn needs. The corn stalks give the beans something to climb. It’s a natural setup that works smoothly.

    4. Cucumbers & Nasturtiums: The Decoy

    Nasturtiums act like bait, pulling pests like aphids and beetles away from cucumbers. They also have pretty flowers that you can eat with a pepper-like taste.

    5. Peppers & Marigolds: Root Protectors

    A common mistake is planting peppers without help. Marigold roots release compounds that chase away nematodes that damage pepper roots.

    Some studies show that marigolds can reduce nematode populations by up to 90%. Their blooms look nice, too.

    6. Lettuce & Radishes: Soil Helpers

    Radishes break up compacted soil, allowing lettuce roots to grow deeper. This makes lettuce stronger on hot and dry days. Radishes also grow fast, so you get an early harvest while waiting for your lettuce.

    7. Squash & Borage: Bee Magnets

    Squash needs more bees, and borage attracts them. These bright blue flowers pull in loads of pollinators and help keep pests away from squash. Knowing this pairing gives you better fruit.

    8. Potatoes & Horseradish: A Surprise Team

    This pair sounds odd, but it works. Horseradish contains natural compounds that help keep potatoes strong and beetles away. Plant horseradish at the corners of the potato bed for protection.

    9. Strawberries & Thyme: Berry Guards

    Slugs love strawberries, but thyme helps stop them with its strong scent. Thyme also acts as ground cover, keeping berries off the soil and reducing fungal problems. Simple and smart.

    10. Cabbage & Dill: Friendly Bug Attractors

    Dill doesn’t chase pests. Instead, it brings in helpful insects like ladybugs and lacewings that eat cabbage worms. It’s like having tiny guards watching over your cabbages.

    Why Companion Planting Works

    Companion planting is more than old advice. It’s backed by how plants interact. They use scents and root signals to communicate with one another. The results can be big:

    • Less pest damage, fewer sprays
    • Better pollination
    • Grow more in small spaces
    • Better soil use
    • Shade where needed

    When you match plants well, everything grows better together.

    How To Start

    Try just two or three partner groups this season. Watch how plant health, pest problems, and harvest amounts change.

    Remember: it’s not just about putting plants next to each other. It’s about letting them support each other. Keep them close but not crowded; about 12–18 inches apart works for most pairs.

    With the right partners, your garden becomes a group that works together instead of single plants growing alone. That’s the goal for most of us anyway.

    [ad_2]

    Gary Antosh

    Source link

  • Nose smart – how [your dog’s] nose knows | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Your dog’s sense of smell is nothing short of a superpower. The following book excerpt offers fascinating details on how canine olfaction works and why our dogs’ odor-detecting abilities are so amazingly sharp. 

    If you pay close attention to your dog’s nose when he’s intent on a scent, you’ll see it do that cute little wiggle and hear the staccato beats of its work. As a tool, a dog’s nose is a triumph of natural selection: a complex set of cogs and wheels we rarely think about.

    When a dog inhales, the air can follow two possible routes — one for plain old breathing, and the other for olfaction. During intense exploration or tracking, the rapid sniff, sniff, sniff — up to around 200 times a minute compared with about 30 times a minute for a dog on a stroll – takes in extra air and rushes volatile particles into the system. The action creates tiny wind currents on exhales to help the inhales along. Then, within the nasal tissue, a maze of receptor sites awaits, tooled with tiny hairs that snag and hold scent molecules as they whistle by. 

    Our two nostrils always work in tandem, but a dog’s can work independently, further boosting his access to scents. Nostril mobility helps the pup know where a smell is coming from, and a wet nose, dampened by a thin layer of secreted mucus plus saliva, picks up scent better than a dry one. And though human nostrils have to manage both inhalations and exhalations through the same door, a dog taking in new air can, with a twitch of muscles, push old air down deep or release it through slits in the sides of the nose: an elegant solution to the “too many smells” problem. 

    Not only do dogs have hundreds of millions more odor-detecting neurons than we, do, but their olfactory epithelium – the sheet of tissue that converts odor molecules into neural signals that brains interpret as smells – is also a complex labyrinth of turns, folds, and bumps compared to our single flat sheet. Dogs also have a working vomeronasal organ (VNO), a sac packed with additional receptors that sits atop the roof of the mouth and picks up chemical cues called pheromones from incoming air and when the dogs licks its nose. When a dog sniffs something message-laden like urine of a female in heat, he seems to “eat” the scent – a behavior that draws more odor molecules to the VNO. What lands there is thought to affect social and reproductive behavior. 

    Olfactory performance is sensitive to humidity and barometric pressure, inflammation, nasal dehydration, excess mucus, exposure to toxins and pharmaceuticals – and of course, the effects of diet, aging, and disease. A dog can experience olfactory fatigue or “nose blindness,” like us, finding herself temporarily unable to distinguish a particular odor after smelling it too much. Thresholds vary across individual dogs. This desensitization occurs to free up the nervous system to respond to new smells that might be important: a smart move for a nose thinker. The gut microbiome may even affect sensitivity to scene. So do training methods; how and how often a dog is exposed to an odor of (our) interest can change his ability to distinguish it from others. 

    So dogs’ nose intelligence depends on a great many factors, many of which are in the handlers’ control. And in supporting our dogs’ natural olfactory talents, we can boost the superpower that arguably has the greatest value to both species. 

    Excerpted from Dog Smart – Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence by Jennifer S. Holland (National Geographic, 2024).


    Post Views: 41


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    [ad_2]

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • Upbringing influences dog parenting styles | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    The way you raise your dog often mirrors the care you received in childhood.

    Have you ever wondered why you treat your dog the way you do? The way you nurture, control, train, or spoil your four-legged friend often reflects your childhood experiences. It mirrors the way your parents raised you. Recent research involving nearly 400 dog caregivers reveals a fascinating truth: upbringing influences dog parenting styles. 

    The cycle of permissive parenting

    The study found a strong pattern. Those raised with a permissive style often raise their dogs the same way. Permissive parenting means fewer rules and more freedom, often motivated by love and protection. This approach passes from one generation to the next. It creates a cycle of indulgence and leniency. 

    If you grew up with few boundaries, you may let your dog get away with behaviors others might not. This insight invites reflection: do your childhood experiences shape your dog’s boundaries? Recognizing this can help you decide if your approach truly benefits your dog’s well-being or simply replicates old habits.

    The role of your attitude towards dogs 

    Your orientation toward dogs influences your caregiving style. Those with a protectionist attitude tend to avoid strict, authoritarian methods. Instead, they lean toward nurturing and safeguarding their dogs, often compensating for harsh experiences they faced as children. 

    This humanistic and protectionist mindset encourages kindness but can sometimes lead to permissive behaviors that overlook essential training. Balancing compassion with clear expectations helps dogs feel safe and confident, reducing anxiety and behavioral issues.

    Childhood memories shape how you parent your dog

    In the study, dog caregivers shared powerful stories about how childhood memories shape their dog parenting. Many shared how their experiences with parents — whether warm or strict — shaped how they interact with their dogs. Some consciously strive to break negative cycles, while others unconsciously repeat familiar patterns. 

    This emotional connection highlights the importance of self-awareness in caregiving. Reflecting on your past helps create a healthier, more balanced relationship. It fosters trust and mutual respect.

    Practical tips to build a stronger bond

    Understanding these patterns offers you a chance to improve your dog’s life and your mutual relationship. Start by observing your reactions and rules — do they reflect your childhood or your dog’s needs? Set clear boundaries with kindness and consistency. Seek guidance from positive trainers or behaviorists if you struggle with balancing protection and strictness.

    Remember, your dog thrives when you provide structure wrapped in love. This approach nurtures confidence, reduces stress, and deepens your connection.

    Upbringing influences dog parenting styles more than you realize. Recognizing inherited patterns can help you gain the power to change them. This transformation benefits both you and your dog, creating a relationship rooted in understanding, respect, and genuine care.


    Post Views: 58


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    [ad_2]

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • A San Francisco dog kisses rescuers after it’s plucked from the side of a cliff

    [ad_1]

    A pet dog fell off an oceanside bluff in San Francisco and spent more than 20 minutes clinging to a narrow ledge until firefighters came to its rescue, officials said.

    The brown and white dog was playing with another pooch on Tuesday at Fort Funston, a coastal park with steep bluffs that can drop up to 200 feet (61 meters) to the beach below. The dog, which was not familiar with the area, slipped on some vegetation, lost its traction and fell over the cliff, said Rescue Captain Samuel Menchaca of the San Francisco Fire Department.

    Firefighters sent a team to retrieve the canine, which had found temporary refuge on a ledge about 40 feet (12 meters) below the top of the cliff. A San Francisco police drone operator who happened to be in the area heard the emergency call go out and captured an aerial view of the dog’s location, which he relayed to firefighters.

    Once they knew where to find the animal, one rescuer rappelled down the sandy cliff face, attached a harness to the 40-pound (18-kilogram) dog and held it as they were pulled up together.

    “He was happy. He knew he got rescued. He was wagging his tail. He was giving everyone kisses,” Menchaca said.

    Rescuers reunited the dog with its owner.

    Menchaca urged people to stay on marked paths, keep their dogs on leashes and their small children close.

    “You may think that it’s a little berm or a hill, but it is a significant drop,” he said.

    Firefighters unfortunately have to rescue people a lot in this area, Menchaca said. They train for it, and will always be there, but they don’t want people to get hurt, he said.

    “One of the best ways to not get hurt on these cliffs and our beautiful seaside parts of San Francisco is to stay on the marked paths,” he said.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Hearts break as dog “minding his own business” at park, then it all changes

    [ad_1]

    A video showing a pup peacefully sitting among the chaos at a dog park has taken a heartbreaking turn—and internet viewers can’t handle it.

    Racking up more than 2.8 million views since it was posted on October 27 by @brettybuckets, the viral TikTok clip shows a brown poodle lying calmly on AstroTurf while other dogs race around. Moments later, disaster strikes. Another canine bolts past, snatching the poodle’s tennis ball in the process. The text layered over the video explains: “This dog was minding his own business and then got trampled and his tennis ball snatched.”

    Captioned “You can see the panic set in when the ball goes missing,” the video has earned more than 430,000 likes at the time of writing.

    Loading tiktok content…

    As the clip continues, the bewildered dog gets up and starts sniffing around, searching for his beloved ball—a moment that has tugged on the internet’s heartstrings.

    “I’m too sensitive for this,” one user wrote, while another commented, “The way he looked for it. My heart can’t take it,” earning 14,000 likes.

    “The way I’d have to stop all the other dogs and find that missing ball,” said a third viewer, and a fourth posted, “I’m literally bawling my eyes out [right now] GET HIM A NEW BALL.”

    “I feel bad for him. He is an introvert and was relaxing and now he lost his ball,” added another commenter.

    While the video has made people laugh and cry in equal measure, it also highlights a serious issue for dog owners: tennis balls aren’t always the safest toy.

    Are Tennis Balls Safe for Dogs?

    According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), while tennis balls can bring joy to many canines, they can also pose health risks if not used properly such as:

    • Choking Hazards: Dogs with strong jaws can easily split tennis balls in half, creating a serious choking risk if a piece becomes lodged in their throat. Ingesting the fuzzy material that covers the ball can also cause choking or intestinal blockages, sometimes requiring surgery.
    • Dental Damage: The outer fuzz of a tennis ball, though it appears soft, is abrasive and collects dirt and sand. This combination acts like sandpaper on a dog’s teeth, wearing them down over time—a process known as “blunting.” This can lead to dental problems such as exposed tooth pulp and difficulty chewing.

    Tennis Ball Safe-Play Recommendations

    To minimize these risks, dogs should have tennis balls only during supervised play. Owners should ensure their canines can obey commands like “drop it” to retrieve the ball safely if needed. Games of “keep away” should also be avoided to maintain control and prevent accidents.

    Even though one unlucky poodle lost his prized toy, his viral moment serves as both an adorable and important reminder for dog owners everywhere: sometimes, playtime comes with a few hidden risks.

    Newsweek reached out to @brettybuckets for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Stress-reducing foods for dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Help ease stress in your dog or cat with nutrient-rich foods like turkey, sweet potatoes, fatty fish, and pumpkin seeds — plus easy homemade recipes to support calm and well-being.

    Dogs and cats suffer from stress much as we do. Stress and anxiety in our animal companions can arise from a range of sources. These include changes in household routines, a loss or move, loud noises, and more. 

    Certain foods can help alleviate stress in our dogs and cats. Turkey contains tryptophan while fatty fish is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Sweet potatoes offer B vitamins, and pumpkin seeds provide magnesium. These and other whole foods can help manage the impact stress has on our animals. 

    You can incorporate these stress-reducing foods into healthy recipes. They help bring your four-legged friend a sense of calm and well-being.

    Stress-fighting foods for your dog or cat 

    • Turkey is a terrific stress-reducing food. It is rich in the amino acid L-tryptophan, which the body converts to serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain. We often refer to serotonin as a “feel good hormone.”
    • Beef is a natural antidepressant. Its B vitamins can regulate stress levels. Beef provides a high level of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), which helps ease anxiety.This vitamin enables the production of anti-stress hormones in the adrenal gland, controlling the release of cortisol. 

               The increased presence of pantothenic acid reduces blood cortisol and dulls the body’s response to stress. Beef liver is also a great                        source of pantothenic acid.

    • Fatty fish is the perfect solace for stress. We have all heard about the “fight or flight” response.  Too much adrenalin can lead to anxiety and even aggressive behaviour.

              Fatty fish is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids. Consider adding wild salmon or other fatty fish, like mackerel and sardines, to your dog              or cat’s diet. It’ll help take the edge off a stressful situation, by increasing serotonin production.

    • Sweet potatoes are one of the world’s healthiest foods. They are packed with antioxidants and are a terrific source of vitamin E. Sweet potatoes offer complex carbs that help regulate blood sugar and insulin resistance. 

              The potassium and vitamin C in sweet potatoes helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, which supports heart health and helps                    reduce the stress response.

    • Pumpkin seeds contain L-tryptophan and glutamate. The body needs glutamate to produce GABA, a natural anti-stress neurochemical. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of vitamin E, which protects tissue cells from free radicals.

              Pumpkin seeds contain selenium, an antioxidant that helps support the immune system. Studies link selenium deficiency to increased              anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

    • Almonds offer vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. Magnesium supports healthy nervous system function and the production of “happy” chemicals in the brain. This helps the body become more resilient during bouts of stress because nerves and muscles are more relaxed. 

              Instead of peanut butter, try some almond butter when stuffing a Kong for your dog!

    Recipes 

    The following recipes include stress-reducing foods for dogs and cats. Try to use organic ingredients whenever possible. 

    Turkey and sweet potato pie

    Ingredients 

    1 pound ground turkey thigh

    1 cup shredded sweet potatoes 

    1 egg, lightly beaten

    ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

    ½ cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped

    1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

    1 cup homemade stock, or try low sodium store-bought stock

    Instructions

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a glass pie plate and line with shredded sweet potatoes. Add ½ cup stock and pour lightly beaten egg on top. Sprinkle ¼ cup of parsley over the mixture, then add ¼ cup of cranberries. 

    Distribute ground turkey evenly over mixture. Add the remaining ½ cup stock and sprinkle sea salt over top. Add the remaining parsley and cranberries. Gently press down mixture with a spatula. Bake for one hour. Cool completely before slicing and serving.  

    Tip:  If you would like to serve this dish to your dog or cat raw, simply combine ingredients rather than layering for baking.                    

    Ingredients

    ½ cup raw beef liver, chopped

    2 tablespoons filtered water or broth

    1 tablespoon potato flour

    ½ teaspoon turmeric

    Instructions

    Combine all ingredients in a small cast iron pan or pot. Gently sauté on medium heat. You can prepare this recipe in under five minutes, but be sure to let it cool completely before serving.

    Sweet potato chips

    Ingredients

    3 sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)

    ¼ cup first pressed/extra virgin olive oil or other first pressed oil of your choice

    1½ teaspoons local honey

    1 tablespoon (or more to taste) of a sweet or savory herb blend

    Instructions

    Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Gently warm olive oil and honey mixture before basting the sweet potatoes. This makes coating them easier. Sprinkle with selected seasoning blend – e.g. choose two or three of the following: oregano, marjoram, parsley, sage, basil, thyme.

    Bake for 15 minutes. Then turn the sweet potatoes, sprinkle with extra seasoning, and bake for another 15 minutes. Line a plate with paper towel, transfer the chips, and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This is a treat you can share with your whole family. 

    Tip: For extra crisp, let the oven cool to 250°F, then bake the chips for a further 20 minutes, checking them regularly to ensure they don’t burn. Store as above.

    Fish topper

    Ingredients

    1 can wild salmon

    ¼ cup first pressed/extra virgin olive oil

    ¼ cup fresh catnip or parsley

    Instructions

    Finely chop catnip or parsley with a knife, or whirl in a food processor or blender. For your feline friend, arrange salmon on a special serving dish, then sprinkle with catnip and add an olive oil glaze. Use fresh parsley for your dog. You can use this recipe as a perfect topper for meals.

    Tip: Choose wild canned fish, packed in spring water. You can also use mackerel or sardines, or fresh fish such as steamed fish cheeks.

    Lightly roasted pumpkin seeds

    Purchase certified organic raw pumpkin seeds. You can store them in an airtight container in your fridge for up to two months. Preheat oven to 175°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper, place the pumpkin seeds on it, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Smash the seeds with a rolling pin. Once they cool completely, sprinkle a little on your animal’s food.

    Simple stock

    Ingredients

    24 cups filtered water

    3 pounds chicken backs and necks

    2 carrots, in pieces

    2 celery stalks, in pieces

    3 Shiitake mushrooms, dried or fresh

    1 large piece of fresh ginger

    12 white peppercorns

    1 teaspoon sea salt

    ½ cup fresh parsley

    Other fresh herbs to taste – e.g. oregano, sage, thyme

    Instructions

    Add all ingredients to a stockpot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, skim off the foam, reduce the heat, and let the pot simmer all day. Refrigerate overnight. 

    The next morning, skim off the fat and remove the meat and vegetables. You can give them to your animals, but be sure to remove all cooked bones. Strain the stock into containers or ice cube trays. Freeze it for later use.

     


    Post Views: 152


    [ad_2]

    Dr. Suzi Beber, Honoris causa

    Source link

  • Can dogs and cats understand human language? | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    See how dogs and cats interpret spoken words, tones, and body cues — plus what science is revealing about their communication skills.

    As dog and cat parents, we communicate with our animals through words and nicknames, kisses, pats and cuddles. The bond we share with our dogs and cats is unique and deep. Sometimes it even feels they can read our minds. You may have found yourself wondering if your animal knows what you’re saying, especially when your dog tilts her head or your kitty starts purring at just the right moment. Can dogs and cats understand human language? Or are they just responding to our tone of voice and body language? 

    Dogs are better at language recognition than cats

    Thanks to their unique social behaviors and developmental patterns, dogs are more adept at language recognition than cats. We can see this in the many service, military, police, and other working dogs that help people on a daily basis. These dogs rely on spoken words and body cues from their handlers to know what to do and when to do it. 

    In 2016, Eotvos Lorand University in Budapest) conducted a language recognition study on dogs. The researchers gave the canine subjects MRIs to monitor their brain activity while their trainers spoke certain words and phrases in both high and neutral vocal tones.

    The lead author, Attila Andics, stated that “dogs can understand words and intonation through both brain regions like that of humans — they can even react to high tones of voice pitch seen as praise (right hemisphere) while separately recognizing distinct words (left hemisphere).” The study also showed that hundreds of years of development, rather than recent evolution, produced these canine brain patterns. 

    We now know that dogs understand and recognize specific names, commands, and words with a level of learning on a par with human toddlers. Your dog probably understands words tied to favorite objects and activities, like “treat,” “walk,” or “dinner.” She may seem to understand a sentence, but she’s reacting more to key words, your tone, and your nonverbal cues. (This is why you can easily spell out T-R-E-A-T or W-A-L-K in front of your dog!).

    But how many words can dogs actually understand? In 1928, researchers conducted the first study on how many words dogs can recognize, using a German Shepherd named Fellow. Testing showed that Fellow correctly responded to 68 words/phrases. Since then, scientists have studied how dogs respond to words, cues, and task requests. For example, some requests test whether dogs can retrieve a specific toy from a pile. In 2022, a study on 165 dogs showed that canines can understand an average of 89 words. 

    Perhaps the smartest dog so far was a Border Collie names Chaser, who after intensive training learned to understand a stunning 1,000 words!

    A recent study from the University of London (among other schools) looked at how compassionate and empathic dogs are. It found that they respond to our feelings and actions, even without direct communication. The study also found that dogs listen in and recognize meaningful content in read speech (without a rise in vocal pitch) and understand their names or similar words through speech recognition. 

    Cats connect with us in different ways 

    While cats can recognize some words (including their names and those of others in the household), as well as vocal tones and nonverbal cues, they respond better to a combination of these prompts. Researchers only began language recognition studies on cats within the last two decades. They have tested cats to see whether they respond to their names, recognize their humans’ voices (when present or outside the room), and associate various objects and sounds with positive or negative actions. The answer to all these questions is yes! 

    Scientists have not yet conducted a conclusive study to determine how many words cats can understand. But results so far estimate the average at ten to 20 words. Cats can recognize words faster than human infants. But researchers need more data to fully analyze their brain activity and language skills. 

    In the meantime, cats have their own, very natural communication style that includes hundreds of facial expressions, numerous vocal sounds, purrs, and physical responses (such as turning their heads and moving their ears when hearing our voices). 

    The future of language recognition in dogs and cats 

    Do dogs and cats understand human language? Scientists continue to conduct more studies in this area. They’re monitoring canine and feline brain waves, further exploring these species’ ability to understand new words/phrases, and discovering stronger communication patterns to strengthen the human-animal bond. 

    While this fascinating research will prove important for our future as dog and cat parents, we need to maintain the language we already share with our own individual animal — the language of love, companionship, and joy. Cherished quality time together is the most important form of communication you can share with your dog or cat! 

    How do dogs and cats interpret our communications?

    Over the last 90 years, researchers have conducted multiple scientific studies to answer this question. The results from these studies are similar. Dogs and cats can understand some words, especially when they hear them often during training or as praise. But they respond more to vocal tone and nonverbal cues, like hand gestures, than to full sentences. As different species, dogs and cats are also quite diverse in how they interpret human language.

    As different species, dogs and cats are quite diverse in how they interpret human language.

    In 2022, a study on 165 dogs showed that canines can understand an average of 89 words.


    Post Views: 16


    [ad_2]

    Anna McClain

    Source link

  • Dog owner suspicious after window blinds fall—Then checks security camera

    [ad_1]

    A woman returning home from jury duty who left her dog home alone nearly blamed her pooch for fallen window blinds, but then she remembered, “innocent until proven guilty.”

    Dog owner Jax works from home, which means rarely leaving her dog, Grim, the black Australian shepherd mix, alone. But because of jury duty, Grim stayed home alone for several hours. She told Newsweek she left at 8 a.m. and returned home around 3 p.m. to find her home a bit messier than usual. The window blinds fell off and landed on Grim’s doggy bed.

    Some dogs, when left home alone, become disruptive or destructive. They might bark or howl uncontrollably, chew items, dig, urinate or escape, all of which could be signs of distress and separation anxiety.

    Jax knew her dog couldn’t have been the culprit. He usually sleeps when at home by himself. This type of behavior would have been “out of character.” Plus, she said, her blinds had never fallen in six years.

    But Grim started acting suspiciously toward Jax after she returned home, running over to the window and sniffing at the blinds on the ground. That’s when she decided to check the security camera for the truth, which she posted to the dog’s Instagram account @grimtheozzy on October 7. The video revealed Grim nowhere near the window blinds. Instead, he was sleeping on Jax’s bed, as she expected.

    “He got terrified and started barking for the next ten minutes,” she said.

    In the clip, Grim cautiously walked closer to the blinds to investigate. He sniffed for a few moments before backtracking to the bed for more warning barks not to mess with him.

    Jax feels relieved not only that Jax remained a perfect good boy, but also because the blinds did not fall on him and hurt him. His bed is right under the window, but he wisely chose to sleep on hers instead.

    Viewer Reactions

    The Instagram video reached over 260,000 views, 36,900 likes and 57 comments as of Thursday. People felt horribly for how scared he must’ve been, but glad the camera proved his innocence.

    “Plssss, him investigating, much concern what a good boy,” wrote a viewer.

    Another added: “I’m glad you had video footage and confirmed first. I would feel so bad blaming him for something he didn’t do.”

    A third user said: “He showed those blinds who’s boss.”

    Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Fear Not! You Can Live With a Cat Even if You’re Allergic

    [ad_1]

    From dietary supplements to cleaning advice, we’ll teach you how to live in harmony with cats (and dogs!), even if you’re allergic.

    [ad_2]

    Molly Higgins

    Source link

  • Energy medicine for dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Energy medicine supports healing and wellness in both humans and animals. It uses frequency-based therapies, quantum touch, Reiki, and other modalities to vibrationally balance the body and its systems.

    Energy medicine for dogs and cats offers an effective approach to healing by working with frequency and vibration to restore balance and harmony. Whether you’re supporting your own well-being or your animal’s, energy medicine offers a variety of modalities. These therapies address physical, emotional, and energetic imbalances in the body.

    Defining and understanding energy 

    Simply put, energy is defined as an invisible force that does something. “Energy cannot be created or destroyed,” wrote Albert Einstein. “It can only be changed from one form to another.” 

    Energy provides what we call vital life force. Unlike the energy generated by the sun or a bolt of lightning, the energy that creates, maintains and supports the body is more subtle and comes from quantum realms.

    Different cultures have different names for these subtle universal energies. They include Qi, Prana, Ti, Ka, Mana, Nyama, Aura, Chu’lel, Alcheringa, or Dreamtime. Within our bodies, these energies flow through channels called meridians, nadis, chakras, dan-tians, or kundalini.

    Energy medicine: it’s all about frequency and vibration 

    From an energetic viewpoint, we define health as inherent, fundamental, highly organized, coherent biofields in harmony with the universe and the natural world. We define “dis-ease” as a disruption, blockage, or imbalance of the subtle energy fields inside and outside the body. 

    When we think about energy medicine, we need to look beyond the things we can readily see, feel, or even believe. We can’t deny that energy is the foundation of all life; energy creates and fuels life. Life is a complex interaction of subatomic particles and atoms working together to sustain existence. 

    “If you want to understand the Universe you need to think in energy, frequency and vibration,” says Nikola Tesla. Everything vibrates at a certain resonant frequency — the frequency that creates optimal function. 

    When our animals are sick, or have a “dis-ease,” they are experiencing an imbalance, a dissonance in the pattern of frequencies we call harmonics. To create harmony, a symphony depends on each instrument to play its part. In a similar way, the body’s health and wellness relies on each biological system to play its part. 

    Also called frequency medicine, energy medicine includes a broad range of healing practices. It’s based on the idea that humans and animals are essentially energetic beings. Energy healing modalities interface at this unseen level of frequencies to create what we call resonance. 

    Resonance occurs when two or more structures vibrate at the same frequency. Energy medicine practitioners view the body as a frequency-based system that can be re-tuned and harmonized. They use energy medicine to recalibrate and fine-tune the system back into harmony.

    How is energy medicine applied to us and our animals?

    Animals are very sensitive to energy. They are pure love and have few boundaries and filters. They easily emit and receive energetic transmissions in the form of vibration and frequencies. 

    In energy medicine, healing begins with creating resonance between each bodily system’s natural frequencies and vibrations. This is demonstrated through the relationship between the atoms, molecules, chemical reactions, structural, functional and physiological systems that maintain the body. 

    Energy healing modalities for humans, dogs and cats

    Scientifically, energetic healing modalities are based on quantum physics. We can use various forms of energy medicine to promote healing in ourselves and our pets. These include hands-on healing, thoughtforms, movement, interventional therapies, and breathwork.

    • Frequency and vibration-based modalities: These include the use of tuning forks, sound bowls, toning, drumming, music therapy, various light frequencies, and photo-biomodulation to shift the energetic state of the body.
    • Quantum touch: In this technique, the practitioner uses breath and body awareness to raise their vibrational frequency, which many believe facilitates healing in others, including animals. Practitioners often use it for pain relief, posture realignment, and emotional balancing.
    • Reiki and energy healing: Reiki and similar energy-based therapies are often grouped with quantum healing. Practitioners channel universal life energy into the patient to activate natural healing processes.
    • Visualization and intention-based healing: Techniques that harness mental imagery, affirmations, or focused intention are common in quantum healing, in the form of mediation, prayer, or journeying. Consciousness can influence molecular or cellular processes in ourselves and our animals.
    • Biofield therapies: Since we and our animals are energetically entangled, harmonizing our own energy fields will have a positive effect on our dogs and cats. Practices like coherence, healing touch, therapeutic touch rely on the idea that practitioners can influence the human energy field for therapeutic purposes. 
    • Movement and bodywork: The body is a physical manifestation of highly organized energy and will benefit greatly from modalities such as Qi-Gong, Tai Chi, yoga, dance, massage, myofascial release, cranial sacral therapy, and assisted modalities such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and PEMF (pulse electromagnetic field) therapy.
    • Earthing or grounding: Rolling on the ground is very natural to our dogs and cats. It feels good. They inherently know it is healing. Physically connecting with the earth’s energy allows negative ions from the ground to rebalance the electrical energy of our animal’s bodies, and our own.
    • Breathwork: Mindful breathing provides fuel for the mitochondria to make energy in the body. It also nourishes tissues by delivering molecules that attach to hemoglobin in red blood cells. 

              Breathwork is also fantastic for stress management and nervous system regulation. When we take deep mindful breaths, our dogs and              cats will often take them with us.

    • Food and water: You may not consider food and water energy medicine, but they are among the basic needs that fuel our energetic bodies. Focusing on energy helps us become more mindful of what we feed ourselves and our animals. Food should be fresh, organic, vibrant, and full of life.

               Staying hydrated is also paramount. Water serves as a conduit for energy transfer and transmission, as well as nutrient absorption and             utilization.

    There is a simplicity to energy medicine for dogs and cats (and us!) that is both ancient and natural. It is all about rebalancing and becoming resonant with the natural world around and within us.   

    This beautiful saying by National Geographic photographer Robbie George sums it up well: “You don’t need a formula to enter resonance. You need breath. You need sunlight. You need water with memory. You need grounding, rhythm, and presence.”  

    How do you know if your animal is responding to energy medicine?

    Most dogs and cats are very open and receptive to energy healing and often respond in non-vocal ways. During a session, your dog or cat might:

    • Close their eyes
    • Sigh
    • Shift position toward or away from you
    • Fall asleep 

    Practitioners use these behaviors to guide the session. They always conduct energy medicine sessions voluntarily and with respect for the animal’s comfort.

    Key benefits of energy medicine 

    Energy medicine offers the following benefits to your dog or cat:

    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Supports immunity
    • Reduces anxiety and stress
    • Relieves pain and supports healing 
    • Releases emotions
    • Enhances bonding
    • Provides support for older animals


    Post Views: 28


    [ad_2]

    Barrie Sands, DVM, CVA, HMCT, EMP

    Source link

  • Why are so many dogs overweight? | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    A new study finds that half our dogs are overweight. Learn the causes of canine obesity and how to help your dog reach a healthy weight. 

    If your dog is on the chunky side, he has plenty of company. A new study from Texas A&M University and the Dog Aging Project (DAP) shows that 50% of dogs in the U.S. carry extra weight. Why are so many dogs overweight? A variety of factors may be at play, including breed backgrounds, environment, and food motivation.

    Understanding your dog’s love of food

    “Our study confirmed that dogs in the sporting group — which in our cohort were largely Labrador and Golden Retrievers — have a greater likelihood of high food motivation,” said Dr. Kate Creevy, DAP’s chief veterinary officer. She is also a professor in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. 

    The study further found that dogs in urban environments and those from multi-dog households are more likely to have higher food motivation.

    “These factors likely influence the amount of exercise dogs get in addition to their access to food,” Dr. Creevy explained. “Some dogs may seek food out of boredom, which may increase in environments that offer less exercise and enrichment. Additionally, owners with multiple dogs may choose certain feeding practices — including free feeding — out of convenience, which can lead to more food being available.”

    Helping your dog reach a healthy weight 

    Many dog parents know their canines are overweight and want to help them attain a healthy weight. However, the process isn’t straightforward.

    “Previous research has shown that weight loss interventions for dogs are not always successful, especially if they’re not followed consistently,” said Dr. Creevy. “Sometimes there are issues in communication between the veterinarian and the owner, and given what we learned from this study, it’s also possible some breeds require stricter feeding practices.

    “Overweight dogs are prone to numerous health problems, including skin disease, diabetes, and arthritis,” she adds. “It is imperative that veterinarians develop a better understanding of canine obesity and whether it may be linked to social, environmental, or demographic factors so we can give every dog the best possible quality of life.”

    If you suspect your own dog is overweight, talk to your integrative or holistic veterinarian. He or she can recommend the best kind of food for your dog and help you set exercise goals and a feeding schedule that meets his needs.


    Post Views: 85


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    [ad_2]

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • Costumed canines get their chance to trick-or-treat at ‘Howloween’ event

    [ad_1]

    LANSING, Mich. — LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Dogs dressed up as everything from Elvis Presley to Scooby Doo’s Mystery Machine went trick-or-treating in Michigan’s capital Friday as part of the annual Howloween event organized by a local pet store.

    The costumed canines made a loop through Lansing’s Old Town arts district, stopping outside restaurants, gift shops and jewelry stores, where owners were waiting to provide treats and a scratch behind the ears.

    Wendy Beck’s pooch, Bella, “got filled up on biscuits” and had to stop along the route for a power nap.

    It was the 9-year-old St. Bernard’s first Howloween, but Alicia Town’s dog, Mojo, is a veteran in more ways than one. The 13-year-old Pomeranian was a tank driver, rolling around in a little green tank – an ode to Town’s husband serving in the Army.

    “There are so many dogs and so many people. You see the cutest things,” Town said. “People go above and beyond on their costumes, and you get everything. It’s amazing.”

    Makenzie Smith-Emrich accompanied her pit bull, Sadie, who was dressed up as a kissing booth pumpkin.

    “This is something we wait for all year, because it’s something that we can do with our dogs that they absolutely adore,” the Lansing resident said. “And they get to dress up, and people give them attention.”

    The event is organized each year by Preuss Pets, an Old Town fixture. The number of dogs is capped at 200, and their owners have to preregister. It is all part of an effort to keep the numbers down for safety’s sake.

    General manager Kirbay Preuss said Howloween is “joyous” and “a very good thing.”

    “I think right now with everything going on in the world we need more joyous events, and that’s what this is,” she said.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • How to read pet food labels | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Confused by pet food labels? Find out how to interpret product names, nutrition facts and more — and what to expect from upcoming label changes.

    Pet food labels can be confusing. Ingredient names are unclear, package claims seem misleading, and important information can be hard to find. The good news is that changes are underway to make pet food labels easier to read and understand. However, it will take time for companies and regulators to fully implement them.

    While we wait, let’s review how to read pet food labels – and how the approved changes will make life simpler when you’re choosing a food for your dog or cat. 

    The Pet Food Label Modernization project

    In the US, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a non-regulatory group of state and federal officials responsible for writing the “model” rules and regulations for pet food. Each state adopts these regulations through its legislative process.

    In 2015, AAFCO launched the Pet Food Label Modernization (PFLM) project to clarify and update the existing regulations. The goal was to increase transparency, more closely align pet food labeling with human food labeling, and improve consumer understanding. 

    AAFCO approved the new PFLM labels in 2024. However, consumers may not consistently see them on store shelves for several years. 

    There are several reasons for the delay. Some changes require new laboratory testing, With limited facilities, companies may face long wait times. State legislatures may also need to update their laws. 

    Additionally, pet food companies may have a large back-stock of printed labels. They will need time to use up old labels and design and produce new ones. Some companies produce hundreds of brands, flavors, and sizes of pet foods, so it’s a big job.

    This all means it will take time for companies to make these changes. AAFCO has provided a six-year phase-in period for the new labels. On the plus side, some pet food companies are already using the new labels. Any new products also must sport the updated look.

    Reading pet food labels

    It’s important to note that despite these changes, basic pet food label information remains the same. Required elements include the intended species, package quantity (weight, volume, or count), feeding directions, calorie content, and the guarantor’s name and address (manufacturer or distributor).

    • The name of the food tells you its major ingredients – e.g. “beef dog food,” must contain 95% beef. 
    • If there is a qualifier, like “dinner,” “nuggets,” or “entrée,” the named ingredients must comprise 25% of the food. For example, “beef and rice formula” must contain 25% beef plus rice. There must be more beef than rice, since beef is listed first. 
    • Ingredients that follow the word “with” must be present in the food at 3% — for example, “beef dinner with giblets.”
    • A “flavor,” such as “beef flavor dinner,” may not actually contain beef meat, but rather beef digest or by-products that provide that taste.

     

    Manufacturers must list all pet food ingredients in descending order by weight. Water is heavy, so wet ingredients are listed first. For commercial dry foods, “meat” listed as the first ingredient may be a watery slurry made from that meat, and not necessarily actual meat. 

    The nutritional adequacy statement comes in two basic forms: complete and balanced; or for intermittent or supplemental feeding. 

    “Complete” means the product contains all required nutrients, and “balanced” means the nutrients are present in the correct ratios.

    Complete and balanced foods must be able to sustain the dog or cat without added supplements (other than fresh water). Manufacturers must prove this either through a feeding test…or more commonly, by chemical analysis. 

    Pet food formulators use software to analyze nutrients in each ingredient to ensure the formula meets AAFCO’s minimum nutritional requirements (nutrient profiles). 

    The nutritional adequacy statement must also specify the life stage the pet food is meant for: e.g. gestation/lactation, growth, adult maintenance, or all life stages. “All life stages” foods essentially meet the requirements for pregnancy/lactation and growth. 

    There is no life stage called “senior,” “mature,” or any similar term. Such foods need only meet the adult maintenance standard. 

    Before the PFLM project, regulators required labels to list crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and moisture percentages. This is no longer the case. These items must still be guaranteed, but they’re in a different place and format — e.g. fiber is now placed under carbohydrate. 

    Also, labels no longer use the term “crude” (although the tests for protein, fat, and fiber have not changed), and the format of the label is very different. 

    A look at the new pet food labels 

    In order to bring pet food labeling more in line with the familiar Nutrition Facts box on human food labels, AAFCO has created the Pet Nutrition Facts box (see image below). 

    As illustrated, the box now incorporates the guaranteed analysis and includes per quantity measurements as well as percentages. You’ll also find the calorie and nutritional adequacy statements inside this Pet Nutrition Facts box. 

    On the downside, the Pet Nutrition Facts box will become unreadable if it’s shrunk too much. On very small cans and packages, the label may not look very different at first glance. However, the order and location of information will be more consistent.

    Additional changes: expanded information

    Further changes should help clarify pet food label information. The calorie statement now shows total calories, as well as how many come from protein, fat, and carbohydrates. “Total carbohydrate” now separates out the amount of fiber (an indigestible carbohydrate). 

    Labels can now use familiar vitamin names and group them in parentheses, instead of listing only technical sources. Manufacturers can also use new safe handling instruction graphics to improve food safety.

    Understanding how to read pet food labels is essential for making informed decisions about your dog or cat’s nutrition. While it can be confusing, the PFLM project aims to improve clarity, consistency, and transparency with its new changes. 

    Ultimately, pet food labels should be easier to read and understand. This will help you choose the best products for your dog or cat’s health and well-bring. 

    Pet food labels: change takes time

    Believe it or not, pet food labels are one of the most highly regulated aspects of the whole pet food industry. Labels require certain information, and there are rules about everything, right down to font size and color. This means changing pet food labels is a major process.

    Defining pet food

    “Pet food” refers to any product that provides nutritional value to dogs or cats. This includes complete daily diets, veterinary prescription foods, treats, snacks, broths, milks, mixers, toppers, chews, and supplements. 

    Under the regulations, “pet food” is only for dogs and cats. Other animals, like gerbils, turtles, goldfish, and parrots, are known as “specialty pets.”


    Post Views: 91


    Jean Hofve, DVM, earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University. In addition to conventional veterinary training, she studied veterinary homeopathy, homotoxicology, Reiki, and other holistic modalities. She has researched pet food and feline nutrition for nearly two decades, and is an expert on holistic pet health and the commercial pet food industry. She is an official advisor to AAFCO, the organization that sets pet food rules and standards in the U.S. and Canada. Dr. Hofve co-authored the book Holistic Cat Care.

    [ad_2]

    Jean Hofve, DVM

    Source link

  • The Airlift Operation That Has Transformed Pet Adoption

    [ad_1]

    When Wright first reached out to Hall, Hall was nervous about working with the shelter. “A place that was managing eight hundred dogs with twelve kennels and one employee?” she said. “I was afraid that I was going to be super fucking sad.” Hall lives off the grid on a dirt road in Terlingua, at the edge of Big Bend National Park, around two hundred miles south of Pecos—a place so remote that she sometimes calls it “the worst place in the world to run a dog rescue.” At the time, she was working for a public-defense association and saving dogs in her spare time. “I used to, like, throw twenty-five dogs in my car and drive them to Colorado,” she said. In 2019, Hall began working with a shelter in Presidio, Texas, which is just across the border from Mexico. Hall sent dogs to two rescues she’d come to know over the years, One Tail at a Time PDX and One Tail at a Time Chicago. They shared a commitment to keeping animals in foster homes instead of in kennels; there they’d be socialized and happier, and therefore more adoptable. Previously, the Presidio shelter had euthanized around eighty per cent of dogs that came in; that year, it didn’t euthanize a single healthy pet.

    Hall has an understated manner that belies her ability to catch people up in the gravitational pull of her mission. Last year, she left her job in public defense, started a West Texas branch of One Tail at a Time with seed funding from the other locations, and devoted herself to dog rescue full time. Last year, thanks, in part, to funding from Best Friends, OTAT – West Texas formalized partnerships with six shelters spread across an area the size of South Carolina. Many were even worse off than the one in Pecos. In Van Horn, ninety miles southwest of Pecos, the shelter consisted of four outdoor cages bolted to a concrete pad. In most municipalities, the shelter was run by the police department; Van Horn was too small for a police department, so the public-works department was in charge.

    Rescue organizations sometimes position themselves as the good guys, swooping in to save animals from certain doom in shelters. But the moral accounting is not quite so clear, according to Cathy Bissell, the founder of the Bissell Pet Foundation, a nonprofit that supports shelters and rescues. For one, as municipal services, shelters have some level of public accountability, while rescues do not. “Just because it says it’s a rescue doesn’t mean it’s going to save that animal’s life, or that animal is going to be better off, because I can tell you what I’ve seen and it’s not great,” Bissell said. “We have moved so many dogs out of failed rescue operations that, for a while, I was, like, That’s all we do. People start with good intentions, they want to save lives, and then they get overwhelmed.”

    Some rescues focus on finding homes for a shelter’s most adoptable dogs—“young dogs, cute dogs, small-breed dogs, different-looking dogs,” according to Hall. “But, when you go into a shelter and you pull out all their Chihuahuas and poodles and you leave them all their pit bulls and German shepherds, you’re actually hurting the shelter.” As Hall saw it, her job was to build capacity in the regional-shelter system, not just to save individual animals. OTAT – West Texas provided shelters with staff, medications, veterinary supplies, microchips, and animal-tracking software. It taught them how to list animals on the OTAT adoption portal and facilitated transportations. Within a year, all six shelters qualified as no-kill. “If you throw resources and effort at it, you can change everything quickly. You don’t have to plod along for a generation like public defense—man, I did that for twenty-five years, and I don’t even know if we ended up in a better place than we were when we started, to be honest. But to be able to go into these shelters and just change things . . .” Hall said. “I think we all want to live in communities where we don’t have to see a lot of suffering.”

    In Pecos, a shelter employee named Luis gave me a tour while Wright was waylaid by a man in a black pickup truck who wanted to surrender four pit bulls. The facility was basic but clean, and dogs pressed themselves against the metal grates at the front of the kennels, eager for attention. The former euthanasia room is now a space for medical treatment; a small fridge full of vaccines sits in the corner. Feral cats used to be immediately euthanized, because the shelter had no space for them; now there’s a dedicated cat room, where Wright joined us. “We flew eleven cats last week,” she said.

    [ad_2]

    Rachel Monroe

    Source link

  • Prosthetics for amputee dogs | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Modern prosthetics give amputee dogs the ability to walk, run, and play again. This guide covers types of artificial limbs, fitting, care tips, and more. 

    In the past, injury or illness sometimes forced dogs to have limbs amputated, condemning them to a lifetime of immobility.
    People often chose euthanasia instead. Nowadays, major technological and engineering advances make it possible to fit these dogs with prosthetics. The devices allow them to lead full, happy, and active lives. Let’s take a look at today’s prosthetics for amputee dogs, and the positive impact they’re having on canines everywhere. 

    How have prosthetics for dogs evolved? 

    Early versions of prosthetics for dogs were ungainly and awkward. They could be uncomfortable and heavy, and hampered full mobility. Today, manufacturers make prosthetics from lightweight but durable materials. They are no longer bulky and cumbersome, and are more precisely fitted to the dog. 

    Whether your dog needs a whole or p, there is a design to suit her needs. Custom-made prosthetics are designed to fit her individual needs, providing support and balance. 

    “Prosthetics are revolutionizing care for amputee pets,” says veterinarian Dr. Sabrina Kong. “Today’s solutions go far beyond simple peg legs. They encompass advanced partial-limb prosthetics designed for dogs with specific residual limb lengths, and even full-limb ‘body jacket’ systems for higher amputations. They’re crafted from lightweight yet durable polymer blends, and balance flexibility with strength.

    “Utilizing data from CT or MRI scans, engineers can create precisely tailored digital models, unique to each pet’s body,” she adds. “The models are used to layer biocompatible thermoplastics into porous, breathable structures. This entire process once took weeks. Now it takes mere days and reduces reduces costs by 50% compared to traditional methods.”

    Prosthetic designers create devices for full limb amputations as well as partial leg amputations from the knee or ankle. They come in many styles. Some mimic the blades human amputee athletes use in competitions. Others are 3D printed, while more mechanical “sci-fi” versions feature shock-absorbing capabilities and a flat surface for the foot.

    Does my dog have to be specially fitted for a prosthetic? 

    The veterinarian must properly fit the prosthetic to the dog for optimal comfort and mobility. After her limb is amputated and the wound has healed, the process of building a personalized prosthetic begins with the help of a veterinarian. A plaster cast or digital scan is the first step to get the right proportions for both the dog and the prosthetic. The manufacturer creates and modifies a mold, then builds the prosthetic from it. 

    For active dogs, a prosthetic isn’t just a one and done proposition. She could have one style for indoor use and another for outdoors.

    While not technically a prosthetic, wheelchairs are another way to give dogs back their mobility after amputation, or in cases of limb or hindquarter paralysis. As with prosthetics, though, a wheelchair should be correctly fitted to the dog in question. 

    Will my dog adapt to wearing her prosthetic? 

    At first, the dog wears the prosthetic for short periods to help her adjust physically. She also needs time to get used to the idea that this strange device makes walking and running easy again. The dog needs two to six weeks of therapy to rebuild muscle memory. 

    One way to help a dog adjust to a prosthetic is through the Feldenkrais Method. Practitioners of this modality use guided movements to improve flexibility and posture. This approach is especially helpful for dogs adapting to a prosthetic. The gentle touches stimulate the nervous system to encourage development of new neural pathways. For prosthetic wearers, Feldenkrais helps the brain adapt to new movement patterns. It also works to maximize recovery and long-term well-being.

    How do I care for my dog’s prosthetic?

    If your dog is young and still growing, you’ll need to schedule regular follow-ups to replace the prosthetic as her body changes. Whatever her age, keep the joint dry and clean the limb regularly, especially in warm weather. Change the socket liner every six to eight months. When your dog is ready for a nap, remove the prosthetic to give her body a chance to rest.

    Some dogs will experience phantom limb pain (PLP). This phenomenon is not imaginary. When humans have a limb amputated, they can sometimes feel pain in the arm or leg that’s no longer there. There’s evidence dogs do too. Since they don’t understand or see the cause of the pain, it can cause anxiety. Talk to your vet if you think your dog is suffering from phantom pain. They can prescribe or recommend a supplement or remedy to help her feel better and calmer. 

    Don’t panic if your dog needs a limb amputation, for whatever reason. The days when euthanasia might have been the only option are gone. Talk to your vet about prosthetics for amputee dogs. A well-designed and properly fitted prosthetic will have your dog running, playing, and enjoying life again before you know it! 

    Max – a case report

    Andrew Lokenauth’s German Shepherd mix, Max, was severely injured after getting tangled in old fencing. Amputation below the knee was the only option. After surgery, Max developed spinal issues from uneven walking, so his vet recommended a prosthetic. Now he tears around the dog park so fast that people often don’t notice anything different about him until Andrew points it out!

    Your pet insurance company may cover prosthetics 

    Custom-made prosthetics aren’t cheap. However, many pet insurance companies will cover the cost of custom-made prosthetics if an accident or illness caused the dog’s amputation. Most often, the policy holder pays for the prosthetic and is then reimbursed. 

    Whether or not prosthetics are covered depends on the company and the policy, so you’ll need to do some homework. Also, as with humans, pre-existing conditions are generally not covered. 

    [callouts]

    The dog needs two to six weeks of therapy to rebuild muscle memory.

    The veterinarian must properly fit the prosthetic to the dog for optimal comfort and mobility.


    Post Views: 46


    Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she’s not writing, she works as a pet sitter.

    [ad_2]

    Sandra Murphy

    Source link

  • Alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Explore alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats, including ozone, milk thistle, vitamin C, nutrition, and other therapies.

    Liver disease is common in dogs and cats, especially as they age. Conventional therapies are important, especially in acute cases. But options like ozone therapy, vitamin C, herbal support, and targeted nutrition can also be beneficial. These alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats complement traditional care and may also improve outcomes and quality of life.

    Conventional therapies for liver disease 

    When a dog or cat has acute liver disease, veterinarians typically admit them for intravenous therapy. Treatment may include anti-emetics (for vomiting), antibiotics (if needed), and other supportive drugs. 

    Dogs can also develop chronic active hepatitis (not to be confused with viral hepatitis). In this condition, one or more liver enzymes are moderately elevated, even though the dog appears healthy. Diagnostic tests usually do not reveal a particular cause. 

    Conventional treatment usually consists of a prescription “liver diet” and sometimes prednisone, as the condition is thought to have an unknown inflammatory origin.

    Alternative treatments are often beneficial 

    • Ozone: I often add ozone gas to IV fluids for acute liver disease in dogs and cats. Ozone has many benefits. It delivers oxygen for healing, kills bacteria and other pathogens, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the production of glutathione — the body’s major antioxidant.

              Acute cases of liver disease demand immediate therapy, and I have found ozone to be quite helpful, even pending true diagnosis.  

    • Vitamin C: This vitamin is also helpful for liver disease when added to IV fluids. I administer the first bag of fluids with ozone, wait a day, then administer a bag of IV vitamin C.  Vitamin C is an immune and energy booster, and a powerful antioxidant. I use a high dose, a one cc per two pounds of body weight.

     

    • Nutrition: For chronic liver disease, including cases of chronic active hepatitis in dogs, the veterinarian should recommend changes to the animal’s diet. Because anorexia and weight loss are common, diets should be high in fat (unless lipidosis is present), rich in high-quality protein (excluding copper-heavy beef), and include vitamins K and E. 

     

    • Milk thistle: The addition of Western herbs, such as milk thistle — which protects and restores the liver and helps with bile flow — is quite beneficial. However, this herb is estrogenic so use it with caution if the dog or cat also has mammary cancer.

               Milk thistle contains active compounds called silymarin and silybin:

                        1. Silymarin boosts glutathione (a major antioxidant) and strengthens liver cell membranes, making it harder for toxins to enter.                            It also reduces inflammation and enhances bile production, which aids digestion and helps the body eliminate toxins and waste                          more efficiently.

                        2. Silybin is the most active compound. It stimulates protein synthesis, which helps repair and regenerate liver tissue. 

                When no toxic or infectious agent is found, many liver disease cases are diagnosed as “inflammatory.” Treatment is then empirical and              focused mainly on reducing inflammation. Vets often prescript steroids, but these drugs have side effects. So adding a good source of                milk thistle is extremely helpful. 

                Choose milk thistle products carefully, as ingredient quality isn’t regulated. Ask a holistic or integrative vet for guidance on sourcing                  and dosage for your dog or cat.  

    • Glandulars: An in-depth discussion of glandulars is beyond the scope of this article, but think of them as “food” for the liver’s nutritional requirements, helping the body more readily facilitate repair. It’s crucial to work with a vet before giving your dog any glandular products.  

     

    • Homotoxicology: This therapy is also very helpful. It involves using combinations of homeopathic formulations. I often use them intravenously, then send an oral form home with the client. Unfortunately, the FDA has made homotoxicology compounds unavailable in the US, so alternative veterinarians have to import them from England or Germany.   

    When addressing liver disease in your animal companion, it’s important to consider both conventional and complementary options. Alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats can provide meaningful support and help manage symptoms with fewer side effects.

    Always consult with a holistic or integrative veterinarian to determine the safest and most effective plan for your dog or cat’s individual needs. With the right care, many animals can enjoy improved liver function and a better quality of life.

    Special thanks to Marlene Seigel, DVM, for her research on silymarin and silybin.

    Symptoms and diagnosis 

    Symptoms of liver disease in dogs and cats include appetite loss, vomiting, yellowing of the eyes (icterus), and dark urine. Blood tests often show elevated liver enzymes. Ultrasound, biopsy, or advanced imaging can further clarify the diagnosis.

    A note about ALT levels

    An increased level of ALT (a major liver enzyme) indicates a problem, and veterinarians will pursue a diagnosis. 

    However, conventional veterinarians often disregard a low ALT level. Holistic and integrative vets recognize that low ALT levels may signal reduced liver cells — due to chronic disease, fibrosis, or lipidosis — or impaired liver function. Both conditions require attention. 

    [callouts]

    Silybin stimulates protein synthesis, which helps repair and regenerate liver tissue.

    Vitamin C is an immune and energy booster, and a powerful antioxidant.

     


    Post Views: 47


    Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk owns Newkirk Family Veterinarians (newkirkfamilyveterinarians.com) and has been taking care of animals in southern New Jersey since 1981. His practice offers traditional and alternative medicine including chiropractic, homeopathy, herbal therapies, alternative cancer treatments, therapeutic lasers, NAET, stem cell transplants and more. Dr Newkirk has his own radio show (Thursdays 9 to 10 AM on WOND 1400 AM).

    [ad_2]

    Mark Newkirk, VMD

    Source link

  • It’s Not Just Us: Some Dogs Can Become Unhealthily Addicted to Their Favorite Things, Too

    [ad_1]

    Obsessing isn’t just for humans. In a study out today, scientists have found evidence that dogs, too, can become addicted to certain objects—and especially, their favorite toy.

    The researchers observed dozens of dogs as they interacted with their most prized toys. About a third of dogs exhibited addiction-like behaviors, such as becoming especially agitated when the toy was kept from them, they found.

    These findings might come as no surprise to dog owners. But the researchers say their work is the first to empirically document the phenomenon.

    “This is the first scientific study on addictive-like behavior in dogs,” study author Stefanie Riemer, a behavioral biologist from the Messerli Research Institute for Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, told Gizmodo.

    Ball junkies

    Riemer notes that many pet owners and trainers use a (rather on the nose, it turns out) nickname for dogs that seemingly just can’t get enough of their toys: “ball junkies.”

    But it’s never been clear whether this sort of behavior actually mirrors how addiction manifests in people. “After all, just being highly motivated, or highly aroused or very toy-focused does not imply an addiction,” Riemer notes.

    Scientists already knew that it’s possible to induce addictive-like behaviors in animals like rats, which has allowed us to better study potential treatments for substance use disorders or other addictions in humans. But it’s still an open question as to whether animal besides humans can develop addictions, the authors said.

    To test their hypothesis, the researchers tried to apply the criteria we use to determine addiction in humans to dogs.

    The study involved 105 dogs, with the most common breeds being Malinois, Border Collies, and Labrador Retrievers. All of the dogs were described as toy-motivated by their owners. For the experiments, the researchers used toys the owners said their dogs would likely love the most, and also included the dog’s favorite toy at home if the owners brought it with them.

    Excessive and maladaptive

    Across all the tests, the researchers found that 33 dogs exhibited addictive-like behaviors with the toys. These behaviors included dogs staying laser focused on the toy if it was kept in the room but placed somewhere unreachable; dogs refusing to play with their owner in other ways; and even dogs turning down a free treat.

    “This could indicate that the high motivation for playing conflicts with other important activities—the dogs are willing to forgo other activities or rewards when they are focused on the toy, even when they cannot access it,” Riemer explained. “It shows that the toys have a high salience for these dogs and that they are craving access to these toys.”

    Perhaps the most illustrative example of addictive-like behavior was seen when the toys were entirely removed, she added. Some dogs were simply unable to calm down for up to 15 minutes after the toys were gone, their heart rates remaining elevated. That sort of prolonged arousal and high frustration seen in these dogs, Riemer said, suggests their motivation for toy playing could be considered “excessive and maladaptive”—an important criteria for diagnosing human addiction.

    The team’s findings were published Thursday in Scientific Reports. A video of one of the dogs in these tests can be seen below and on YouTube.

    More left to learn

    The researchers say their findings should be taken with some caution. It’s hard to accurately measure and classify addiction in people, let alone non-verbal animals. And there’s still much to learn about the potential nature of addiction in dogs.

    One important lingering question is exactly how and why these behaviors can emerge. The researchers found some evidence that the seeds for excessive toy-playing tend to show up in puppies. They’re also conducting a follow-up study examining whether certain breeds, particularly some kinds of working dogs, are more predisposed to toy addiction than others. Because this study focused on dogs already known to be toy-motivated, though, it’s not clear just how prevalent addictive-like behaviors are in dogs generally.

    All that said, Riemer doesn’t want owners to overly worry about their dogs if they simply love playing with their toys in healthy amounts.

    “Many dogs colloquially referred to as ‘ball junkies’ are just highly motivated, but they have no problems when the play is stopped,” she said. “I think toy play is a great reward for many dogs, but for the ‘extreme’ dogs, steps should be taken to reduce their fixation on toys.”

    Riemer is now working on a grant to explore ADHD in dogs, since it seems to have lots of parallels with addictive-like behaviors in their research. Other studies have also suggested dogs might be a good model for better understanding ADHD in people.

    [ad_2]

    Ed Cara

    Source link

  • Slippery elm for dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Slippery elm is an herb that helps ease digestive issues in dogs and cats, including diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Get safe usage tips, dosing guidelines, and veterinary advice.

    Digestive upsets in dogs and cats have many causes. If they’re persistent or recur often, it’s important to take your animal to the vet for a proper evaluation. For occasional short-term upsets, home remedies like slippery elm for dogs and cats can help relieve symptoms. Here’s what you should know about this herb and its benefits. 

    What is slippery elm?

    The slippery elm tree is native to the northeastern US. Its inner bark contains a polysaccharide molecular complex called mucilage. This creates an anti-inflammatory response in the body. Humans have long used slippery elm to help treat GERD, stomach issues, constipation, diarrhea, and more. It is safe for dogs and cats as well as humans. You can use it in your animal’s diet as a way of holistically addressing certain digestive concerns.

    1. Constipation and diarrhea 

    Slippery elm for is most often used for constipation and diarrhea in dogs and cats. These two conditions are common and can lead to chronic issues.

    • Acute diarrhea often occurs when the animal has eaten something he shouldn’t have. Veterinarian Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand recommends slippery elm to help calm the gut in cases of acute diarrhea. However, she warns: “Diarrhea should be addressed as soon as possible if there is blood in it, or if the animal has multiple uncontrollable bouts,” she warns. The same applies if your dog or cat’s diarrhea doesn’t go away or keeps recurring. 
    • If your animal is experiencing constipation, the lubricating qualities of slippery elm can provide relief. It’s especially helpful for animals with chronic constipation, offering a holistic remedy without the need for stronger medications.

    1. Vomiting

    Slippery elm can help treat vomiting (depending on the cause) by calming gastrointestinal inflammation and soothing the stomach lining. 

    Additionally, if your cat is vomiting because of a hairball, slippery elm can help by providing additional lubrication.

    Excessive vomiting in your dog or cat likely signals a more serious issue that requires prompt veterinary attention. Persistent vomiting can cause dehydration and weight loss if not addressed as soon as possible.

    1. Digestive disease

    Dogs and cats, like us, can suffer from many digestive diseases. Some are dangerous if ignored, so your vet should assess any chronic symptoms. Dogs and cats can experience any of the following, some of which are more serious than others: 

    “If these issues are left untreated, they can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, or damage to other organs,” warns Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand. “Chronic problems are often a sign of a more serious underlying disease. Slippery elm can’t treat all these issues — but it can help alleviate some intestinal discomfort in dogs and cats.”

    Giving slippery elm to your cat or dog 

    Slippery elm is generally well tolerated by dogs and cats Its pleasant taste makes it easy to mix into food, even for picky animals. The easiest way to give it is as a powder combined with wet food. Don’t sprinkle it directly on food, as your animal might inhale it. If your dog or cat likes the taste, you could also mix slippery elm powder with a bit of water and let him take it that way. 

    Slippery elm is a mild remedy, but you still need to dose it properly and avoid giving your animal too much. “For dogs, I recommend ¼ teaspoon per 20 pounds twice daily (no more than 1 tablespoon max),” says Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand. “For cats, I recommend 1/8 teaspoon twice daily.”

    As with any herb, talk to your integrative or holistic veterinarian before giving your dog or cat slippery elm. And make sure you find out what’s causing your animal’s digestive problems in the first place. In some cases, you can give slippery elm with other medications or treatments if your vet approves.

    Slippery elm for dogs and cats offers a gentle, natural way to support digestive health and ease occasional issues like diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. While it’s not a cure-all, this soothing herb can be a helpful addition to your pet’s wellness routine when used correctly and under veterinary guidance. 

    [callouts]

    Slippery elm’s inner bark contains a polysaccharide molecular complex called mucilage.  

    “Slippery elm can’t treat all these issues — but it can help alleviate some intestinal discomfort in dogs and cats.”

     


    Post Views: 44


    [ad_2]

    Abigail Jane

    Source link