Summertime can bring hot weather, humidity, bugs and allergies– all of which can make pets itchy and sometimes even smelly.  While pets need occassional baths to clean up odors, for the most part, pets should feel and smell nice.  Peculiar pet odors are generally a sign that something is “off” and it is important for you to find out the source of the odor. Pet odors are not just cosmetic–they are warning signs alerting you of a potential problem. Here are just a few odors to watch out for:

Smelly Skin and Coat—Allergies—both environmental and digestive, contribute to skin problems. Both yeast and bacterial infections can cause an odor especially when it is hot and muggy.   Pet owners often get discouraged because their pet will have an odor even after giving them a bath. It is a misnomer to conclude “my pet just smells” or that it is somehow related to your pet’s breed. The odor is a sign of imbalance and possibly infection. 

Many times pets have an odor from allergies (even an allergic rash from fleas!) which can also leave a white powdery or greasy film on your hand when you touch your pet. Common food allergens include grains such as wheat, oats, gluten and corn. Too many carbohydrates such as rice and potatoes, when given to a young pet, can contribute to yeast overgrowth. Some meat proteins such as chicken and poultry can be big allergens too. In addition to food allergies, pets can have environmental allergies too.  At the first sign of a skin odor, please take your pet to the veterinarian to determine the cause. Your pet could have an infection, parasites or an underlying endocrine disorder.

Stinky Ears—If you smell near your pet’s ears and there is a strong odor, take your pet for a checkup right away. During the hot summer months, pets are prone to ear infections. Many ear infections are due to yeast overgrowth. Using dry kibble is often a contributing factor, especially if it contains the grains mentioned above or is high in carbohydrates. Dry pet food, while convenient for you, can greatly contribute to yeast overgrowth. Pets need fresh foods such as green vegetables, meat and Omega 3s to optimize health.

Bad Breath—Pets need dental cleanings just like we do. If you have recently had your pet’s teeth cleaned and there is still a bad odor, then your pet’s bad breath needs to be addressed. Bad breath can be a sign of an underlying health condition such as acid stomach, poor digestion, dental or gum infection or kidney disease. It is not just a cosmetic issue—it can be a very real sign that you shouldn’t ignore. If you have an older pet, get a blood test and urine analysis. Poor digestion from food is also a very likely culprit. Pets with bad breath often have other problems such as poor coat quality, scratching and itching and allergies.

Gas, Belching and Vomiting—This is something our pets may do on occassion. But frequent rumbly tummies, gas, burping and regurgitation are a sign that something is wrong. Often these signs are due to the food you are feeding. Finding the optimal food depends greatly upon the age and health conditions of your pet. For example, pets that have IBS may do just fine with potatoes while other pets with chronic ear infections do not. If your pet has digestive issues, scheduling a telephone consultation to determine the best diet and supplement program is highly recommended. It is very common for pet owners to report that years of gas and belching were early symptoms that their pet was suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. For example, cats can be susceptible to developing intestinal lymphoma after years of eating foods they have been allergic to.  It is always a good idea to revisit your pet’s diet with a veterinary professional if you notice any of the above digestive symptoms. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/21/pet-odors-summertime-warning-signs/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/#comments Sun, 12 Jun 2011 19:08:17 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=407 Even some of the most pampered pets may have dull, lifeless coats with red spots on the skin and patches of fur missing. Pet owners will seek out advice for hair and coat conditioners and other topical products, but a beautiful coat comes from the inside. Fur coats are a reflection on the outside of what your pet is experiencing on the inside.

While it is quite common for a pet’s coat to lose some luster with age, this and other coat quality challenges can be quickly remedied using these health-promoting tips:

1) Give your cat or dog omega 3 fatty acids. “Omega 3’s as they are commonly referred to, are not only good for you, but are great for your pet.   In addition to enhancing the coat and skin, they are helpful for allergies, joint support, brain function and so much more. You can use a combination of fish oil, flaxseed oil and olive oil. Some pet owners also give their pets a small amount of coconut oil as an extra treat. Be sure to buy the highest quality, purified oils where contaminants such as PCBs and heavy metals have been removed. Please note: pet owners of cats or dogs having pancreatitis should consult a veterinarian before using any type of oil.

2) If you have an older dog with a dull coat or skin problems, please take your dog to the veterinarian for a blood panel to have the thyroid function checked. Many older dogs can have a reduced level of thyroid function which can greatly affect coat quality and also contribute to weight gain. Natural supplements containing ingredients such as kelp can help support thyroid health. Sometimes a pet may have “borderline low” thyroid results so ask your veterinarian if Thyroid Support by Standard Process, a natural thyroid supplement can be used first before using thyroid replacement medication.  Many of my clients use Thyroid Support without thyroid medication to help support their dog’s hypothyroid condition.

3) Use a hypoallergenic diet if your cat or dog is scratching, itching and tearing his fur out. Many pets lose fur near the hind legs, abdomen and tail due to food allergies. Pets with food allergies can react daily to common commercial food ingredients such as grains (oats, wheat, corn, etc), peanut butter or poultry. Seek out the advice of a pet nutritionist or veterinarian to help determine the best diet for your pet. There are many grain-free, hypoallergenic commercial pet food options available.

4) Be sure your cat or dog does not have fleas or other parasites. It is always a good idea to have your veterinarian check for parasites (both internally and externally) at least once a year. Many times pets can have hidden parasites that you may not be aware of. This can greatly affect coat quality.

5) Keep a close eye on your pet’s digestive health. Many cats and dogs have digestive problems that can contribute to poor coat quality. Pets that have loose stool, vomiting, gas and tummy rumbling may not be digesting their food properly. As a result, critical nutrients needed to ensure good health and a lustrous coat, are not being absorbed. For example, when pets eat commercial foods containing grains, much of what they are eating, might come out as partially digested-food resulting in large, voluminous stools. Consider incorporating a highly-digestible, commercial raw frozen diet into at least a portion of your pet’s daily food intake. Also, a high-quality, third-party tested probiotic and digestive enzyme will help improve your pet’s absorption of vital nutrients. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/#comments Wed, 08 Jun 2011 19:27:54 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=405 Treatment Alternatives For Cats and Dogs With Cancer

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

Cancer is a disease process in which healthy cells stop functioning properly and abnormal cells begin growing at an out of control rate. Normal cells grow, divide and die in an orderly fashion. Cancer cells grow and divide and instead of dying, outlive normal cells and continue to form new abnormal cells. Some cancer cells can travel to other parts of the body beyond where their development originated and again grow and replace the normal tissue. This process called metastasis occurs as the cancer cells travel through the blood stream or lymph vessels of our bodies. 

There are many types of cancer. Cancer can arise in the skin, organs, bone and blood. Some types of cancer are fast growing and other types grow more slowly. Lymphoma is an example of a common form of cancer that we see in dogs and cats.

Common Signs of Cancer In Pets

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow

• Sores that do not heal

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

• Persistent lameness or stiffness

• Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina

• Difficulty eating or swallowing

Please note that many of the above signs are also seen in pets with noncancerous conditions. Regardless, these are signs your pet has some type of health condition and a visit to your veterinarian is warranted. Any new lump or growth on your pet should always be checked by the veterinarian. 60% of skin growths on cats are cancerous. Even though dogs have a lower percentage of malignant tumors on their skin, even soft lumps should be aspirated for the presence of unusual cells. 

Many times pet owners will notice some of the above signs and bring their pet in for a check-up. Depending upon the timing of bringing their pet in, more or less will be able to be done to help the pet. Initially the veterinarian will recommend some initial laboratory tests such as bloodwork, urine analysis and XRAYS (As a general rule, it is recommended that bloodwork and urine analysis be performed on pets over 6 years annually to maximize the possibility of catching cancer and/or other diseases as early as possible) Most of the time, this will provide some preliminary insight to the veterinarian, but a biopsy is generally required in order to definitively diagnoses the presence of cancer and the type of cancer. 

Once diagnosed, there are several avenues a pet owner can explore. If at all possible, it is recommended that you make a visit to a veterinary oncologist, even if you do not wish to pursue chemotherapy or radiation. It is important for you to see an oncologist for a more comprehensive discussion from a specialist and to get a definitive course of action on your options from a conventional veterinary standpoint. Oncologists will have the greatest amount of experience with cancer and will be able to give you an idea about your pet’s prognosis, with or without using various forms of cancer medication. Many times, pets may require removal of a tumor and an oncologist can assist you with this as well. 

There are a full range of medical options available for your pet with cancer, and using a combination of both conventional and holistic treatments can most benefit your pet. There are many prescription medications that can help your pet to feel more comfortable and potentially control the rate of growth of the cancer. Remember, quality of life is most important—be sure to watch your pet for signs of extreme discomfort and lethargy. From a holistic standpoint, much can be done to help your pet maintain a higher quality of life (using acupuncture, diet changes, supplements), especially if the diagnoses is made early.

New Conventional Treatments for Cancer

Melanoma Vaccine–Conventional vaccines (for other common diseases) stimulate an immune response directed against foreign proteins. Tyrosinase, a protein present on canine melanoma cells, is not usually targeted by the dog’s immune system because it also is present on normal canine cells. This vaccine helps the immune system to respond to the cancer cells and may help the survival time of the dog with oral melanoma (after the tumor is surgically removed).

Small Molecule Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) is a new cancer therapy for mast cell tumors of the skin in dogs. The medication in the US is called Palladia and has been shown to be effective in treating lower grade mast cell tumors in the skin by attacking the tumor cells and cutting off the blood supply to the tumor.

Natural Treatments for Pets with Cancer

By far, the best results we have seen in cancer patients has been when the pet owner was able to catch the cancer early (as a result of regular laboratory testing) AND when a combination of both conventional and holistic medicine is used. While holistic veterinary medicine cannot cure cancer, it can make a tremendous difference. It is unfortunate that many times, people don’t discover the wonders of giving their pets the best nutrition and supplements until their pet has been diagnosed with a serious illness. The best way to help prevent cancer is to start at the beginning of your pet’s life, giving them optimal nutrition, vitamins, Omega 3s and building a sound immune system. But, even if your pet has been recently diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, it is not too late to make important changes that can give you more time. It is analogous to the advertisements you might have heard about lung cancer and that it is never too late to stop smoking!

One misconception that can be misleading for pet owners is that there is not “one” diet or “one” set of nutritional supplements for a pet with cancer. The reason is that cancer can have many forms, arising in different parts of the body which will affect the pet’s nutritional needs differently. All pets do need nutritious whole foods rich in Omega 3s, vegetables and some quality protein (varies depending upon the pet’s condition). Common sense should be the guiding factor in feeding your pet. Be sure to avoid giving your pet anything with artificial colors, sweeteners or preservatives. Never give animal fat such as chicken skin or fat from a piece of steak for example. Avoid foods made from simple carbohydrates such as biscuits, bread or crackers. Use caution with protein–giving your pet endless amounts of protein is not advisable, everything should be in balance as in some cases (e.g. if the pet has a liver condition) too much protein can be harmful. We strongly urge you to seek the advice of a veterinary professional for dietary advice. Telephone consultations are available at Care by Phone if you would like assistance in developing a home made diet and determining a holistic plan for your pet with cancer.

Listed below are some of the more common forms of cancer in pets. As you can see, cancer can develop in different parts of the body and depending upon where it is found, the pets need for nutritional supplements vary.

Lymphoma – is cancer of the lymphatic tissue. The lymph system is a core part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that defends the body against infections. It is comprised of a network of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph (a clear, watery fluid that contains protein, salts, glucose and other substances) throughout the body. The lymphatic system also serves as a low pressure drainage system that collects interstitial fluid throughout the body and returns it to the bloodstream. The most common sign of lymphoma is a painless enlargement of the lymph nodes.

Mast Cell Tumors – Mast cell tumors are among the most common tumors in dogs and are the most common type of skin cancer found in dogs. The most common location to find mast cell tumors is, by far, the skin, followed by the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Both normal and cancerous mast cells contain chemicals that can be released into surrounding tissues. When these chemicals (particularly histamine) are released into the normal surrounding body tissues, side effects can include digestive problems (for ex: bleeding ulcers), skin rashes, shortness of breath and other symptoms. Mast cell tumors vary greatly in their size, shape, appearance and texture. The only way to definitely identify them is with a biopsy and pathology report.

Hemangiosarcoma – Most commonly found in the spleen, liver and heart and the prognosis is determined by the location of the disease. The cancer arises from the blood vessels and results in the production of abnormal blood vessels that can be weak and prone to leaking. As the cancer progresses, the cancerous vessels can rupture and results in blood loss. As the spleen is the organ most commonly affected by this type of cancer, rupture can lead to blood loss into the abdomen. This is an emergency situation and can result in weakness and collapse. Many pets with hemangiosarcoma often require a splenectomy.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Cancer that occurs in the mouth, underneath the tongue or along the gums of the middle-aged and older cats. Common signs of squamous cell carcinoma in cats includes difficulty eating, interest in food but not wanting to eat, drooling and odor from the mouth.

Osteosarcoma — Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone tumor in dogs. Osteosarcoma beings in the bone but can spread throughout the bloodstream very early in the course of the disease (metastasis). The most common areas for this cancer to appear are the wrist, shoulder, knee and hip. The first sign of bone cancer is lameness due to pain from the cancer. Swelling often occurs at the tumor site.

Transitional Cell Carcinoma – Tumors usually form at the bladder opening and can cause blockage causing painful urinartion. Pets often strain while trying to urinate. Transitional Cell Carcinoma can be difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine or frequent urination are often due to a urinary tract infection. This can delay the discovery of the cancer, especially since antibiotics can often result in some improvement of symptoms. Thus, at the time of diagnosis, bladder cancer can be fairly far advanced and have spread to other parts of the body.

Adenocarcinoma – Anal sac adenocarcinomas are tumors arising from the apocrine glands present on either side of the rectum. These tumors can range greatly in size from a very small mass that can be found only after a rectal examination or a large mass protruding from the rectum. While the tumor appears locally, it is quite common for them to metastasize, often to the lymph nodes inbetween the spine and colon. Symptoms vary depending upon the gender of the pet and can include increased thirst, weakness, persistent licking at the site, difficulty defecating, decreased appetite.

Nutritional supplements should address the most critical needs facing the pet which will vary over time. In other words, the supplements that a pet needs at one point in their cancer care most likely will not be the same at a later time. This can be very confusing for pet owners who seek to find a few master remedies that will help to keep their pet comfortable and increase their longevity as much as possible. For example, the most pressing issue at the beginning of cancer therapy may be to help a pet with digestive problems, diarrhea or vomiting and not use any supplements at all specifically for cancer until the pet’s digestive condition stabilizes. Again, we encourage you to seek the advice of a veterinary professional in selecting supplements for your pet as their needs will vary, especially if your pet is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

Some key objectives in using nutritional supplementation for cancer are:

1) Supportive care for digestion (many pets with cancer have digestive issues)

2) Supportive care for the organs affected (e.g. liver support supplements if the pet has liver cancer)

3) Immune system support

4) Detoxification to help release toxins

5) Antioxidants to neutralize free radicals (limited use with approval from your veterinarian if undergoing chemotherapy/radiation)

When selecting products specifically for your pet’s cancer, be sure to check whether the products are deemed safe to use during chemotherapy and/or radiation if your pet is undergoing treatment.

There is no question that we have seen by far the best results when patients use a combination of both conventional and holistic veterinary medicine when treating their pets with cancer. Regardless of the treatment protocol, a nutritious diet and some carefully selected supplements can only help to strengthen the pet and keep them feeling more comfortable. Research and education are key, as well as working with your veterinarian and other veterinary professionals to ensure that your pet is receiving all of the treatment alternatives possible—both conventional and holistic. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/#comments Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:30:28 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=403 Ear Infections in Pets

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

Pet ear infections can become a chronic health condition. Owners can often tell when their pets have an ear infection because of the odor and debris in the ear. Dogs also may display head shaking or excessive scratching of the ear. The normal ear should be free of debris and odor.

Dogs and cats have 2 portions to their ear canals; a vertical portion that can be somewhat visualized with the naked eye and a horizontal portion that you cannot see. Human beings have only a horizontal ear canal. If you see wax, dirt, or debris in any amount in the ear canal, there could be an infection deeper within the part of the canal you can’t see. The doctor will usually use an otoscope to visualize the horizontal ear canal and tympanic membrane (ear drum).

Some breeds of dogs are predisposed to ear infections. Any of the brachiocephalic breeds (pug, bulldog, Boston terrier, Shar-Pei etc) have narrowed ear canals and excessive wrinkling which do not allow free movement of air. Without this free movement of air, moisture gets trapped in the ear canal and between the skin folds, predisposing to infection. Other breeds with genetic predisposition to allergy or skin disease (cocker spaniel, Golden Retriever) usually also have ear issues because the ear canal is actually an extension of the skin. Dogs with skin problems often have ear problems too.

Your veterinarian will look at your pet’s ear and determine which organisms are in the ear and will prescribe the right type of medicine to do the job. Often the doctor will take an ear smear of the debris from the affected ear, smear it on a slide, and determine what is causing the problem. This is an important diagnostic step because it helps the doctor choose the right medicine. Yeast, bacteria, mites, and inflammatory cells are usually identified with the microscope. The number and type of bacteria are important to identify. Small round bacteria (cocci) are easier to treat and less serious than rod bacteria, which are often very dangerous. In general, the treatment for ear infections typically involves antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatory medications and antiparasitic formulas–both oral and topical.

Some pets will allow the veterinary team to clean the ear canals, but many pets are so painful and uncomfortable that sedation or anesthesia may be necessary to do a thorough job. Ideally, debris must be removed from the ear canal to facilitate effective treatment with the ear ointments or ear drops. It also allows the doctor the possibility of carefully examining the ear drum. Is it still intact or has the ear drum been ruptured? This will determine which medication to put in the ear. Are there foxtails of other foreign material deep within the ear? Sedation or anesthesia will allow the veterinarian to remove these safely.

It is important for pet owners to follow the doctor’s instructions on treating the ear. Make sure you return to the office on the re-check visit so the doctor can make sure the problem has been cured. The doctor should then illustrate what you need to do to try and keep these infections from returning. Prophyllactic ear rinse solutions are available, and should be used in most cases after the infection has subsided. Many owners mistakenly put hydrogen peroxide in the ear. This is not a good idea. Hydrogen peroxide eventually turns into water, which will then create a perfect environment for bacteria to start growing. The ear canal is one place where hydrogen peroxide should never be used. If you prefer to use a natural solution instead of the prescription ear washes, you can try using 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts warm water. The ear cleansers and/or vinegar solution will keep the pH of the ear canal at an optimum level, discouraging the colonization of bacteria and yeast. For some dogs, this will become a lifetime regimen and we often recommend that pet owners do this 2 to 3 times a week for life.

Natural Alternatives For Dog Ear Infections

Pets with chronic ear infections typically have skin infections too. It is quite common for pets to have ear infections, hot spots, hair loss, scratching/itching, urinary tract infections and digestive issues—all seemingly unrelated but quite often all due to the same issue—allergies (both food and environmental) and poor digestion. When pets are allergic to what they are eating and/or are fed foods that are poorly digested (many “brand name” commercial pet foods are hard to digest because they contain preservatives, fillers and allergens such as corn), the pet experiences an inflammatory response. In addition, the pet’s digestive system can often become compromised, reducing their overall immune response. This sets up an environment for yeast, bacteria and parasites to overgrow. The first step in healing a pet with chronic ear infections is to put the pet on a healthy, hypoallergenic diet. This is not always an easy task as many times, pets are allergic to different foods. Common food allergens are corn, soy, milk products, casein (found in cheese), peanut butter, wheat, gluten, beef and chicken. Some cats are allergic to fish and chicken. Overall, try to seek out local pet stores that may carry more natural, holistic brands that do not contain wheat or corn. We have had terrific success using pre-made frozen raw diets but this may or may not be the right food for your pet. Each pet has different digestive issues and what works for one may not be ideal for another. For best results, you might want to schedule a holistic consultation with Dr. Selmer.

In addition to changing your pet’s diet, some supplements can really help your pet fight off yeast infections from the inside out. If your pet has taken antibiotics or prednisone, it is critical that you restore the balance of flora to prevent the infection from coming back. Many times, people and pets experience chronic infections because the antibiotics kill off the good bacteria (as well as the bad) and unfortunately if you haven’t made the changes to support a healthy digestive tract, the bad bacteria will grow back faster than the good bacteria. That is why it is so essential to supplement with probiotics (and antifungals if you or your pet have a tendency to get yeast) following a course of antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory medications.

Using both conventional and holistic veterinary care, we have seen pets with chronic infections completely improve without continued reoccurrence.

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Thank you for being an carepaw subscriber. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/05/24/spring-into-action-protect-your-pets/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/05/24/spring-into-action-protect-your-pets/#comments Tue, 24 May 2011 20:07:53 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=400 Spring into action. Protect your pets!

Ticks, fleas, heartworms, and intestinal parasites can threaten your pets all year long, not just when the weather gets warm. So protecting your pet from these dangerous parasites requires a year-round commitment!

You may be able to see evidence of fleas, ticks, or internal parasites, but sometimes you can’t. Veterinary examinations and parasite testing are important ways to detect parasites and improve your pet’s health. Monthly parasite preventive medications can protect pets from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms. Don’t leave your pet unprotected from these predators.

Ticks and Fleas

Ticks and fleas are blood-drinking parasites that can also transmit serious diseases to pets. Ticks can transmit infections like Lyme disease, and fleas can transmit tapeworms and Bartonella—the bacteria that causes “cat scratch fever” in humans. You can sometimes see ticks or fleas on your pet, but fleas hide under your pet’s fur, and some ticks are very tiny—only the size of a pin head, so they are very difficult to find. A veterinary examination can detect ticks or fleas on your pet, and monthly medication can control them.

Heartworms

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, and they can infect dogs and cats. Even indoor pets aren’t completely safe from heartworms, since 25% of heartworm infected cats live completely indoors. Heartworms damage the heart and lungs, and can even cause death! Fortunately, heartworm preventive medication can protect your pets from these dangerous parasites.

Intestinal Parasites

Roundworms, hookworms, and other intestinal parasites can cause serious illness in pets. Some of these parasites are even transmissible to humans, so preventing parasites in your pets also helps protect children and other family members. A veterinary examination and routine fecal testing can identify intestinal parasites, and many monthly heartworm preventive medications safely and effectively control them.  Ask us how to protect your pets and family

Call us today at 631-367-7387 to schedule an appointment and don’t forget to bring a fecal sample for parasite testing. Don’t forget to visit our website at www.advancedcareforpets.com.

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

The liver is the main filtering system for the body since all blood supply travels through it to be detoxified. The liver performs many critical functions including:

• metabolism of fats, protein and carbohydrates
• filtering harmful substances from the blood (e.g. toxins and/or medications)
• storage of vitamins and minerals
• production of bile which aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients
• glycogen storage (involved in blood sugar regulation)
• synthesis of important proteins such as albumin and clotting factors
• red blood cell maintenance, in conjunction with the spleen

A pet may have NO outward symptoms that the liver is overburdened. It may only be discovered in a laboratory test and/or a physical exam by your veterinarian. During the physical examination, your veterinarian will look for signs of liver disease such as a distended abdomen due to enlargement of the liver, bruising under the skin, fever (due to secondary infection or inflammation), pain when pressure is applied to the abdomen or yellowish discoloration of the ears, gums and hairless areas of the skin. Anemia might be observed by checking the mucous membranes for a normal pink color.

The veterinarian will also look for symptoms such as:

1) Loss of energy
2) Digestive problems, diarrhea and/or constipation
3) Light tan or grey stools
4) Darker urine color (can be orange)
5) Changes in behavior such as pacing, circling or even seizures
6) Excess water drinking and urination

Since pets may have no symptoms however, diagnostic laboratory tests will provide the most valuable source of information. For example, a young pet may have a congenital condition such as microvascular dysplasia or a liver shunt and the symptoms may not be apparent until the pet is one or years old. A blood test may be the only way to know. There are certain blood values, for example, that if abnormal, may signify liver disease. These can include:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – An enzyme that becomes elevated with liver disease.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALKP) – An enzyme produced by the biliary tract (liver) can be elevated in liver and non-liver related diseases. High levels can indicate bone disease, liver disease or bile flow blockage.
• Gamma Glutamyltransferase (GGT) – An enzyme produced in many tissues as well as the liver. Like alkaline phosphatase, it may be elevated in the serum of patients with bile duct diseases. Elevations in GGT, especially along with elevations in alkaline phosphatase, can indicate impaired bile flow
• Total Billirubin (TBIL) – A component of bile, bilirubin is secreted by the liver into the intestinal tract. Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is found within red blood cells and carries oxygen to the tissues. When red blood cells die, hemoglobin is broken down by the liver as bilirubin. Elevated bilirubin levels can be caused by excessive numbers of red blood cells breaking down or when the liver is diseased and unable to clear the bilirubin from the blood. Also if there is an obstruction in the bile duct, the flow of bilirubin into the intestine is impaired and this can also cause elevation of bilribuin in the blood.
• Albumin (ALB) – Produced by the liver, albumin is a plasma protein that helps control osmotic pressure in the tissues. When albumin is low, fluids can leak resulting in a swollen abdomen. Low levels of albumin can indicate chronic liver or kidney disease, or parasitic infections such as hookworm. High levels indicate dehydration and loss of protein.

A urine analysis and XRAYS can provide valuable information as well. If signs and symptoms appear that a pet’s liver is not functioning optimally, additional tests are warranted to determine the underlying cause. A bile acid test, ultrasound and/or liver biopsy may be needed to determine the reasons behind your pet’s poor liver function. Your veterinarian will recommend medications, diet changes and potential surgical procedures upon determining the cause of your pet’s liver disease.

Liver Support Can Increase Your Pet’s Longevity

Holistic Alternatives for Liver Disease

In many ways, your pet’s liver is analogous to the oil filter in a car. You need to keep it clean or the “blood” (e.g oil in the car) gets dirty. When the liver’s job becomes overextended, the body cannot filter out as much as it should and toxins are released into the bloodstream. These toxins can cause harm to other tissues which in holistic medicine, is thought to be the root of disease. Since the liver is an integral component of so many critical bodily functions, it is easy to see a domino effect that can occur when the liver becomes overloaded. For instance, when a person drinks too much alcohol, the liver can’t keep up with the necessary “cleaning action” to process out the toxins, and people often develop other health conditions, such as increased levels of fat in the blood (triglycerides). Similarly, if the liver becomes overloaded following years of poor diet, medications and exposure to toxins, your pet’s liver can become overburdened as well.

It is a good idea to help your pet’s liver function by using holistic care BEFORE liver disease sets in. For example, if your pet is taking pain medications such as Rimadyl or Deramaxx, these medications can negatively impact your pet’s liver. However, if you use liver detoxification supplements you can minimize the potential impact of these medications. The liver is one of the few organs in the body that can regenerate new healthy tissue so it is not uncommon to see patients with compromised liver functions show significant improvements with our holistic protocols.

Certain foods can help to naturally detoxify the liver. Green vegetables contain not only valuable vitamins and minerals but they also contain natural cleansers and antioxidants that help to purify the blood and the liver. Giving your pet green vegetables such as green beans, squash or asparagus, along with some carrots can provide fresh enzymes and extra nutrition. Omega 3 fatty acids found in Amazing Omegas can be very helpful too. In general, pets with liver conditions need a diet low in animal fat, high in Omega 3s, reduced protein and high in fiber. Prescription diets are available but a homemade, balanced diet specifically for liver conditions is best. The homemade diet would need to take into account your pet’s overall health status and blood test results or it could result in additional problems. For example, cooked fish is often helpful for pets with liver disease but not if the kidney values are elevated as well. Telephone consultations are available at Advanced Animal Care Center if you would like to develop a homemade diet for your pet.

It is never too late to give your pet increased vitality and energy by adding a liver support supplement and extra nutrition to their diet. Many pet owners notice their pets have extra energy after just a few days. And, reducing animal fats (e.g. never give pets chicken skin or fat off meat for example), increasing Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and flax seed oil and extra vegetables can all help to support your pet’s liver and longevity.
Thank you for being a Carepaw subscriber. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care.

On holidays, it is quite common for emergency animal clinics to be filled with dogs and cats being brought in after suffering from a severe bout of pancreatitis. Giving pets table scraps such as fat from meat, cooked bones, turkey drippings and gravy, even in small amounts, can make them sick. Pet owners and doting relatives who overindulge the pet in holiday food are not only causing a change in the pet’s diet (which can make them sick on its own) but combining that with high fat foods can lead to serious, sometimes even fatal consequences.

Still, it is natural to want to pamper your pet and so if you want to give your pet an extra snack, plan ahead. Have safe treats such as your pet’s favorite treat available or consider giving fresh vegetables (steamed preferably) or lean meats or fish. A small teaspoon of canned pumpkin (plain pumpkin-not with pumpkin pie spice and sugar!) is also a safe option. Even a piece of a baked sweet potato, white potato or yam is ok.

The following foods, however, can be dangerous so avoid giving them to your pet:
* Chocolate
* Grapes or raisins
* Onions (cooked or raw)
* Sweets (cookies, cake, ice cream, etc.)
* Rolls/bread (many pets are allergic to gluten)
* High fat foods such as butter, gravy or peanut butter
* Cooked bones (they can cause choking and tearing in the GI tract)

The most common thing people tend to do during the holidays is give the dog and cat scraps off the table, such as gravy, turkey drippings and pieces of fat. These high fat foods can cause diarrhea, vomiting and overload the pet’s digestive system.

Moreover, overtreating pets on holidays or anytime leads to obesity. Numerous studies indicate that pet obesity is on the rise contributing to an increase in life-threatening diseases such as diabetes, hepatic lipidosis and cancer.

So to make your holiday special with your furry friends, make safety your number one priority. Keep pets in a designated part of your home if guests come over so that they can’t get loose when the door opens.  Don’t leave them alone in a room when candles are burning and plan ahead if you want to give them some special treats.

Wishing you a healthy and happy holiday!

Your lively pet who once jumped on the bed at the first site of food is now slowing down and barely making it up the stairs to get to your bedroom. It is hard to watch our pet’s discomfort and we often feel helpless thinking that there is nothing we can do. In fact, there is a great deal you can do to help your pet, but you first must determine exactly what is wrong.

The following signs are an indication that it is time to go to your veterinarian for an office visit:

• Difficulty or hesitation to sit down or get up
• Difficulty jumping up or reluctance to climb stairs
• Lameness in one or more limb
• Stiffness in the morning that improves as the day progresses
• Subtle signs that the pet may not want to put weight on the limb
• Sensitivity when touched in certain areas

Summarized below are tips to bring back the sprint in your pet’s step!

When you bring your pet for an office visit, your veterinarian will want to do a comprehensive examination and assess your pet’s neurological responses, joint mobility, areas of pain and sensitivity. Your veterinarian may manipulate the limbs to assess your dog’s response and observe the extent to which your pet is able to put weight on the affected limb. Generally an XRAY is taken and additional testing (ultrasound, bloodwork) may be required. It is important that a veterinarian check for all of the pet’s symptoms as there may a variety of conditions contributing to your pet’s discomfort. The following conditions are just a few of the many causes of joint or muscle pain and lameness:

• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Genetic conditions (e.g. hip dysplasia, osteochondritis)
• Immune mediated (e.g. cancer)
• Infection
• Ligament tear (especially in the knee) or other injury
• Deferred pain from an organ (e.g. kidneys)

As you can see, there may be a lot more than just “old age” contributing to your pet’s pain and it is important to understand the causes so that proper treatment can be determined. Also, many young dogs may show signs of limping or discomfort which could be due to any of the above factors—in other words, a dog does not have to be “old” to suffer from joint or muscle pain.

Depending upon the test results, your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of action. Sometimes surgical repair is the best option. For older pets, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as Rimadyl, Metacam or Previcox will help the pet feel more comfortable and increase mobility. These medications should be used judiciously however, as over time, they may impact liver function.

There are many action steps you can take to help relieve your pet’s pain and discomfort.

Weight Management Many times pets with joint and muscle pain are overweight. The excess weight will hasten the development of arthritis by increasing the pressure on the joints. It is important that you work with your veterinarian or nutritionist to give your pet a diet that helps your pet maintain an optimal weight. For some, switching to a raw food diet can be helpful in weight reduction although this may not be the appropriate diet for all pets. If you have had difficulty getting your pet to lose weight, you may want to schedule a consultation with us as we have had lots of success stories with even the toughest cases!

Daily Exercise A short 15 minute walk with your dog each day can do a world of good. For your dog, it is a chance to increase circulation, burn some calories and smell the world around him or her. Walking can reduce pain by stretching muscles and reducing stiffness. If you have a cat, you can take time each day to play with a feather or laser toy to keep them moving. For you, it is a wonderful bonding experience and can be a social time too. Try to plan your day so that you and your pets can benefit!

Diet Pets with joint pain can greatly benefit from Omega 3 fatty acids. These nutrients are called “essential fatty acids” because they must be obtained from the diet and cannot be manufactured in the body. If your pet is experiencing joint pain, please be sure to add these to their diet. Omegas can make quite a difference not only in supporting joint health but giving pets a beautiful, lustrous coat.

Nutritional Supplements There are many wonderful nutritional supplements available for pets that can really help. Be sure to look for a combination formula that contains not only Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM, but also key nutrients such as green lipped mussel, collagen (from eggshell membrane) and herbs such as Boswellia and Turmeric. Use a variety of formulas for maximum effectiveness. Some supplements can take time so allow a few weeks to see the real effects.
You can bring the sprint back into your pet’s step by taking action and using these recommendations to help your pet. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at www.advancedcareforpets.com.

Thank you for being a subscriber to CarePaw. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care.

For starters, it is important to understand that what is “best” can vary from one pet to another, just as what food is good for one person may not be good for another. One dog may feel just fine on a certain brand of pet food, while another one scratches and itches, tearing his fur out. One cat may like a certain brand of cat food, while the other one refuses to eat it.

So…the first step in establishing your pet’s nutrition plan is acknowledging that you will have to do some needs-based fact finding and that if you have multiple pets, you may not be able to feed all of your pets the same pet food. This can be challenging at times, but not impossible. Once you see the benefits of giving your pet the right food based on your individual pet’s needs, you will be rewarded for your extra effort.

The phrase “pet nutrition” implies something beyond just providing pet food for energy. It means that you are providing pet food that your pet’s body can utilize and benefit from. For example, candy provides calories but is it really nutritious? Those adorable, artificially colored pet treats that are made to look like human treats such as popcorn are gobbled up by your dog, but does that mean it is really good for them…and could it even be potentially harmful?

The fact is that you want your pet’s food to provide the most benefits possible: promotes good health, is convenient, easy to use, is economical and most of all, that your pet likes the taste. Unfortunately, not all of these pet nutrition variables may come to play and you will have to make some compromises.

When it comes to optimizing pet nutrition, one fact prevails: you get what you pay for. If standard grade meat/poultry is $3.00 a pound and a 20lb bag of dog food costs $25 — you do the math-how much meat vs. corn fillers do you actually think is in the food? So, if you want to keep your pet healthy and use a nutritious food, chances are you are going to have to pay more for it. The tradeoff though is that you will pay for a lot fewer visits to the veterinarian because so much of your pet’s well-being is due to the food you are using. Pet nutrition can greatly impact the course and quality of a pet’s life, as much, if not more than genetics.

So when it comes to pet nutrition, Rule #1 when selecting a food for your cat or dog, is to READ THE LABEL! Many people use a pet food because their neighbor said it was good, or their breeder used it previously, or breed club said it was good or even because the veterinarian recommended it. With no disrespect intended to whoever might have recommended it, YOU are the one responsible for your pet’s well-being and YOU alone should read the label and understand what you are giving your pet. Many pet owners lament years later after giving their pet the wrong food that they wish they had “known this before.” The label is required by law for you and your pet’s protection, so please take the time to read it.

A good pet food should contain meat, poultry or fish clearly identifiable in the first ingredients. It should contain ingredients that you have heard of such as peas, carrots, fish, etc. Ideally, it should contain a variety of nutritious ingredients such as lean meat, vegetables and omega 3 fatty acids. There should be a nice balance between protein, fiber, fats and carbohydrates. Even if a pet food says it is “organic” or holistic or hypoallergenic, doesn’t mean that it is the right food for your pet. Depending upon your pet’s individual health concerns, one diet may be more suitable than another. For example, many “hypoallergenic” diets are extremely high in carbohydrates promoting yeast overgrowth and many organic brands contain flour and soy which contribute to allergies and urinary tract infections. Remember, base your decision on the ingredients and your pet’s health concerns, not on the beautiful pet featured on the pet food product.

Personalized telephone consultations are available to give your pet a custom-tailored dietary plan.  If you are using a prescription diet, we can help you develop a natural alternative.  Click here to learn more

Some pet food ingredients you should try to avoid include:

Grains — such as corn, corn gluten meal, ground corn, wheat gluten, wheat flour or any other flour-while some pets do just fine on high quality brands that contain grains, many pets do not digest them properly and develop allergies, UTIs and chronic health problems. If your pet has a lot of gas, this is a sure sign he or she is not digesting the pet food properly and may be having difficulty with the grains.

Brewer’s Rice — A processed rice product that represents the milled fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from the whole grain rice. This is a lower cost rice product that lacks the nutrients found in its counterpart whole brown rice.

Ethoxyquin — chemical preservative found in some pet foods used to extend the shelf life and ultimately the overall profitability of the food. Ethoxyquin has been banned from most human foods due to its cancer-causing properties. Try to find foods that are preserved with Vitamin C or E (mixed tocopherols).

Meat and Poultry by-products — Byproducts are much less expensive and digestible than the muscle meat found in higher quality brands. Ingredients vary from batch to batch but can include heads, feet, bone, etc.–not the steak and chicken breast you are seeing in the commercials.

Potato Product — a cheap byproduct of food processing of potatoes for human use. The potato “product” does not have the same nutritional benefit of a fresh whole potato. As a general rule, any food labeled as a “product” in the description, e.g. “egg product” or “byproduct” isn’t going to have the same level of pet nutrition for your cat or dog as the whole food itself.

Peanut Hulls, Beet Pulp, Soybean Hulls — used as an inexpensive filler with little or no nutritional value. Provides fiber and is often used in “reduced calorie” pet foods so that the dog or cat feels satiated. It is better to use green beans, canned pumpkin or other natural sources of fiber to help your pet lose weight.

There are many high quality pet foods offering superior pet nutrition available today. Some pets may require a special, “prescription” diet and there are pet nutritionists and holistic veterinarians available who can help you determine the best food for your pet. With just a little extra effort in reading labels and becoming educated about your pet’s food and the benefits of pet nutrition, you can greatly help your pet to live a longer and healthier life.

Click here to learn more about Advanced Animal Care Center

260 Evergreen Avenue

Huntington Station, NY, 11746

Phone:  (631) 367-7387          advancedcareforpets.com

Giardia and It’s Debilitating Effects on Your Pet’s Immune System

Giardia are parasites that live in the small intestine of dogs and cats.  Giardia is not just found in rescue pets…..Many puppies and kittens from the very best breeders are often affected.  Also, a small percentage of pets can carry Giardia but be asymptomatic so it is very important for every pet to be tested.
Giardia is very common and can easily be transmitted to humans, particularly children. Giardia is a protozoal infection of the intestines that is transmitted by water or fecal ingestion. Giardia causes intermittent diarrhea and/or vomitting. However, SOME PETS MAY HAVE NO SYMPTOMS!!!!! It is very important to have a fecal smear and ELISA test to doublecheck. This is especially important if your pet has access to open streams or playtime with other pets.

Treatment for giardia needs to be a multipronged approach.  While the medications may kill the giardia, the intestines are now in an inflamed state and can affect the long-term health of your pet.  Your treatment strategy will need to include: 1) antiparasitic medications such as Panacur and Flagyl prescribed by your veterinarian 2) hygiene to prevent reinfestation  3) supplements to repair and rebuild your pet’s intestinal tract.  The effects of giardia can have a long-term impact on your pet’s immune system and bowel function.  Many pets diagnosed with IBD later in life, suffered from giardia and/or worms as puppies and kittens.  In order to help prevent these long-term effects, we highly recommend the use of Probiotics to help reduce inflammation in the intestinal tract and rebalance intestinal flora.

Here are some hygiene tips in case you have a pet with giardia.  Please note that this list is not all-encompassing and it is very important to work with your veterinarian to handle the problem:
1) Wash your pet and your pet’s bedding several times during the first 2 weeks of the treatment period.

2) Use a baby wipe or wet paper towel and gloves to wipe your pet’s rear end after your defecation

3) Reinfestation is a HUGE PROBLEM.  If at all possible, keep your infected pet separated in an isolated area.  You may want to ask your veterinarian about proactively treating other pets although the medications can be harsh and cause other problems.  Be sure your infected pet only urinates and defecates in an isolated area (no grass is best) away from where other pets may go.
4) ALWAYS wear gloves when picking up stool infested with giardia or parasites/worms and then throw the baggie into another baggie with a tie on top. Immediately pick up the stool if possible. Giardia can set into the ground, concrete etc.

5) After you clean up the area, please use Bleach or a cleaning product containing bleach. Be prepared–you could need about 30 rolls of paper towels in a 10 day period and several bottles of cleanser. Wash your shoes after walking on the infected area as cleaning up diarrhea is not easy and it is easy to step on it (ick!).

6) Keep children, workmen, pets and housekeepers away from the trash. Put a big note on your trash barrel making sure they know to stay clear.

Additionally, it is important to understand that pets affected with giardia will need some after-care. Many pets can develop inflammatory bowel disease because the inflammation in the bowel has not been addressed.

Thank you for being an Advanced Animal Care Center Client. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care and valuable pet health information.