Are they really necessary? - In a word, NO! Every year you receive an annual reminder from your vet that your pet is due for his annual checkup and vaccinations. Most pet owners believe these vaccinations are essential to their pets' health. Why else would my vet tell us they need annual booster shots? Vaccinations account for a major chunk of a veterinarian's income. It is in your vet's best financial interest that you bring your dog in every year. Also, annual vaccination schedules have ALWAYS been based on the suggestions of the vaccine manufacturers --NOT on independent research. Is it any surprise that they want annual vaccinations? The drug companies make billions from vaccinating your pets. Can you imagine humans having to get all of the recommended vaccines every year?
The drug companies can not be trusted. It takes years for them to pull dangerous vaccines and drugs off the market. Thimerosal based vaccines were used in 1935 on dogs and half of those fell ill. It was deemed that this preservative was unsatisfactory as a serum intended for use on dogs. Thimerosal was finally taken out of pet vaccines in 1991 (56 years later) because of pressure from veterinarians. It was making dogs very sick! (But, it was still used in vaccines for our babies and children for 10 more years! It is still in flu shots.)
Vaccinations have been proven to be NEITHER safe or effective. Routine vaccinations are probably the worst thing that we do for our animals. Vaccines can overwhelm and confuse the immune system. They cause all types of illnesses, chronic disease, destruction of the immune system, allergies, cancer, epilepsy/seizures, aggressive behavior, auto-immune disease and even death. Reactions might occur soon after or might take months or years to show up. You and your vet probably would not attribute the symptoms with the vaccine.
Holistic veterinarians and homeopaths have know for decades the dangers and risks of vaccinations. Most holistic vets do not give vaccinations anymore. Some just give puppy shots, one at a time, and only certains ones. It is the giving of frequent or repeated vaccines that are so harmful. There are homeopathic remedies that can be given before and after vaccinations to reduce side effects. Nosodes are an alternative to vaccines. For more information contact your holistic veterinarian.
Here are some resources so you can do your own research and reading:
Books: "Stop the Shots" by John Clifton; "Vaccine Guide for Dogs & Cats, What Every Pet Lover Should Know" by Catherine Diodati; "What Vets Don't Tell You About Vaccines" and "Shock to the System" by Catherine Driscoll; "Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats" by Richard Pitcairn.
Websites: www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/petvacc.htm, www.thepetwhisperer.com/Vaccinations.html, www.drpitcairn.com/talks/looking_at_vaccines.html, www.truth4dogs.org.
Website: A memorial to Belle, a victim of vaccines http://pinecrestaussies.tripod.com/id17.html
Website: A memorial to pets that have died from vaccines, NSAID's (Rimadyl), and ProHeart6(heartworm shot). www.dogsadversereactions.com/vaccinesurviors9.html (I imagine these few deaths are just a drop in the bucket!)
Website: To report adverse side effects from vaccines or medications. www.vaers.hhs.gov and www.fda.gov/cvm/adetoc.htm
Please be informed before you have your pet vaccinated. Rabies is the only vaccine required by law. Never vaccinate a sick pet! If your pet has a bad reaction to a vaccine, don't give it again. Be very careful vaccinating older pets. If you chose to vaccinate, only give one vaccine at a time.
A quote from Richard Pitcairn, one of the country's most prominent homeopathic veterinarians "If I may venture to make a prediction, it is that fifty or one hundred years from now people will look back at the practice of introducing disease into people and animals for the purpose of preventing these same diseases as foolishness--a foolishness similar to that of the practice of bloodletting or the use of toxic doses of mercury in the treatment of disease."
Friday, August 8, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Dangers of Medicating Your Dog With Slentrol
It is bad enough that the pharmaceutical companies are already destroying the health of humans daily, now they are out to destroy our dogs. Why? Because dogs are a billion dollar pet industry.
A long list of side effects include: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, anorexia, corneal ulcers, loose stools, pancreatitis, seizures, hepatopathy, ataxia, behavior change (inappropriate urination and defecation), excess drinking and urinating, constipation, increased drooling (symptom of upset stomach) and liver disease. Within one week after stopping the medication a 6 year old Chihuahua died. I'm sure there will be more deaths from this medication.
It might be healthier to be a fat dog, than to suffer from some of the adverse reactions reported on the Slentrol website. Before you give your pet any medication or drug, read all of the fine print of side effects. Are the side effects worth the risks when there is a safer way to lose weight. This drug is DANGEROUS for humans and cats!! Why is it OK for dogs?
Don't give your dog unnecessary health problems, endless vet bills and emotional distress. They can't tell you how awful they feel with all the side effects. This drug caused headaches in humans!
Change to a high quality pet food with less grains and more meat or make a homemade diet. Cut out all of the "extras" you give your pet. Instead of one big meal at night, feed your pet 2 times a day, breakfast and dinner. More exercise is the key. Remember, just because your dog is outside in the yard all day, doesn't mean he is getting any exercise. He needs someone to throw the ball or take him for a walk. Medication is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise.
A long list of side effects include: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, anorexia, corneal ulcers, loose stools, pancreatitis, seizures, hepatopathy, ataxia, behavior change (inappropriate urination and defecation), excess drinking and urinating, constipation, increased drooling (symptom of upset stomach) and liver disease. Within one week after stopping the medication a 6 year old Chihuahua died. I'm sure there will be more deaths from this medication.
It might be healthier to be a fat dog, than to suffer from some of the adverse reactions reported on the Slentrol website. Before you give your pet any medication or drug, read all of the fine print of side effects. Are the side effects worth the risks when there is a safer way to lose weight. This drug is DANGEROUS for humans and cats!! Why is it OK for dogs?
Don't give your dog unnecessary health problems, endless vet bills and emotional distress. They can't tell you how awful they feel with all the side effects. This drug caused headaches in humans!
Change to a high quality pet food with less grains and more meat or make a homemade diet. Cut out all of the "extras" you give your pet. Instead of one big meal at night, feed your pet 2 times a day, breakfast and dinner. More exercise is the key. Remember, just because your dog is outside in the yard all day, doesn't mean he is getting any exercise. He needs someone to throw the ball or take him for a walk. Medication is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Dealing With The Death of A Family Pet
When children experience the death of a family pet, it is usually the first traumatic event of their young lives. Bonds between children and animals are great and should not be trivialized or ignored. Children are deeply affected by the death of a pet. It is important to talk to your children about their feelings and let them know you are feeling heartache as well.
There are certain activities that will help encourage your child's expression of grief.
1. Have a backyard memorial service for your pet. 2. Your children can write a note to their pet, attach it to a helium balloon and send it up to Heaven. It is amazing how healing this simple act can be for you or your child. 3. Decorate a garden paving stone in memory of their pet. 4. Drawing pictures or writing stories, about their pet, can release their feelings. 5. Make a photo album or scrapbook. Write about all the special, as well as, funny things your pet did. 6. Make a memory box. Decorate a shoebox and put the pets collar, tags and toys in it. 7. Have a photograph of your pet put in a frame, to keep the pet's memory alive. 8. Plant a tree, plant some flowers or put a statue of an angel in the pets favorite place in your yard. 9. Talk about your pet, when he first came to the family, how hard he was to train and the funny habits he developed.
There is no way to rush the healing process. In time, the pain will lessen and your family will be able to look back and smile at the good memories of your pet.
Websites to visit if you have lost a pet : www.rainbowbridge.com and www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
There are certain activities that will help encourage your child's expression of grief.
1. Have a backyard memorial service for your pet. 2. Your children can write a note to their pet, attach it to a helium balloon and send it up to Heaven. It is amazing how healing this simple act can be for you or your child. 3. Decorate a garden paving stone in memory of their pet. 4. Drawing pictures or writing stories, about their pet, can release their feelings. 5. Make a photo album or scrapbook. Write about all the special, as well as, funny things your pet did. 6. Make a memory box. Decorate a shoebox and put the pets collar, tags and toys in it. 7. Have a photograph of your pet put in a frame, to keep the pet's memory alive. 8. Plant a tree, plant some flowers or put a statue of an angel in the pets favorite place in your yard. 9. Talk about your pet, when he first came to the family, how hard he was to train and the funny habits he developed.
There is no way to rush the healing process. In time, the pain will lessen and your family will be able to look back and smile at the good memories of your pet.
Websites to visit if you have lost a pet : www.rainbowbridge.com and www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Remembering Bodie
Bodie was my daughter's family dog. They live in Northern California. Bodie was a rescue dog and he was 7 months old when they adopted him. He was very thin, anemic and they found out later that he was deaf. He was a black lab and that breed is not known for deafness. They suspect that he had ear infections that were not treated.
Bodie thrived in his new home. He was so happy. He learned many tricks and commands by sign language. He was a very smart dog. He loved to play ball and he could get 3 balls in his mouth at a time! He loved to swim in the pool, swim in the nearby lake and he loved attention. Bodie grew up be a beautiful dog. Everyone loved Bodie.
Two and a half years after Bodie was adopted, he got out of the yard. They think Bodie was trying to get one of his toys that got on the other side of the fence. It was dark and Bodie is black and the street in front of their house is a busy one. Bodie didn't have a chance with the speeding car. He was rushed to the vet, but his injuries were too great. His death was a shock, he was so young and had so much more life to live. Our hearts were broken. My grandson had such a special bond with him. We all miss Bodie very much.
Bodie must have had a horrible first seven months of his life, but thanks to my daughter, son-in-law and grandson, he had a wonderful 2 1/2 years. There are thousands and thousands of dogs and cats all over the United States waiting to be adopted. If you are wanting a pet, please check your local shelter.
Bodie thrived in his new home. He was so happy. He learned many tricks and commands by sign language. He was a very smart dog. He loved to play ball and he could get 3 balls in his mouth at a time! He loved to swim in the pool, swim in the nearby lake and he loved attention. Bodie grew up be a beautiful dog. Everyone loved Bodie.
Two and a half years after Bodie was adopted, he got out of the yard. They think Bodie was trying to get one of his toys that got on the other side of the fence. It was dark and Bodie is black and the street in front of their house is a busy one. Bodie didn't have a chance with the speeding car. He was rushed to the vet, but his injuries were too great. His death was a shock, he was so young and had so much more life to live. Our hearts were broken. My grandson had such a special bond with him. We all miss Bodie very much.
Bodie must have had a horrible first seven months of his life, but thanks to my daughter, son-in-law and grandson, he had a wonderful 2 1/2 years. There are thousands and thousands of dogs and cats all over the United States waiting to be adopted. If you are wanting a pet, please check your local shelter.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Pain-Relieving Tips for Arthritis & Stiffness
It is hard to watch our pet's discomfort and we often feel helpless thinking that there is nothing we can do. There is a great deal you can do to help your pet. The first thing is to determine exactly what is wrong. Your vet can find out what condition is the cause of the joint or muscle pain and lameness.
Many vets will recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. These medications all have an impact on the liver. In my blog titled "The Dangers of Rimadyl", I tell the story of how my dog, Jake, died because of them.
Holistic Vets are now offering acupuncture, acupressure and aquapuncture, to increase your pet's mobility, reduce pain and enhance the immune system.
In addition to acupuncture, there are many other action steps you can take to help relieve your pet's pain and discomfort. 1. Weight management, excess weight will hasten the development or arthritis by increasing the pressure of the joints. 2. Daily Exercise, a short 15 minute walk with your dog each day can increase circulation, burn some calories and relieve pain by stretching muscles and reducing stiffness. 3. Diet and Nutritional Supplements, pets with joint pain can benefit from Omega 3 fatty acids (essential fatty acids), Amazing Omegas (omega 3 fish oil) and/or Nupro (flax seed whole food supplement). Also important are combination formulas that contain Glucosamine, Chondrotin, MSM, Boswellia and Turmeric. Amazing Omegas, Nupro, Arthrosoothe, Special SAMe+, Inflammatone are all available from http://www.askariel.com/. Remember a natural diet is always best for overall health of your pet.
Many vets will recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. These medications all have an impact on the liver. In my blog titled "The Dangers of Rimadyl", I tell the story of how my dog, Jake, died because of them.
Holistic Vets are now offering acupuncture, acupressure and aquapuncture, to increase your pet's mobility, reduce pain and enhance the immune system.
In addition to acupuncture, there are many other action steps you can take to help relieve your pet's pain and discomfort. 1. Weight management, excess weight will hasten the development or arthritis by increasing the pressure of the joints. 2. Daily Exercise, a short 15 minute walk with your dog each day can increase circulation, burn some calories and relieve pain by stretching muscles and reducing stiffness. 3. Diet and Nutritional Supplements, pets with joint pain can benefit from Omega 3 fatty acids (essential fatty acids), Amazing Omegas (omega 3 fish oil) and/or Nupro (flax seed whole food supplement). Also important are combination formulas that contain Glucosamine, Chondrotin, MSM, Boswellia and Turmeric. Amazing Omegas, Nupro, Arthrosoothe, Special SAMe+, Inflammatone are all available from http://www.askariel.com/. Remember a natural diet is always best for overall health of your pet.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
A Day Working At Petco
Today, I was doing a "demo" for a healthy pet food that is new to Petco. My job was to give samples and inform customers of this new food. I was amazed at how many people were not interested and went to the "Veterinarian Recommended" food. A Petco worker said that if only one veterinarian recommended it, then they could use that "saying" on their food. He also said that the company is famous for paying for veterinarians schooling if they "push" their foods when they get out of school. He was doing his best to steer customers to other foods, telling them about the by-products, grains and preservatives.
I am amazed that pet owners don't read labels to see what is in their pet's food. They just assume that the "well know" labels must be the best. The "famous company" mentioned above has a food for digestion problems for dogs. The first 5 ingredients were grains and the only "meat" was chicken fat. How can any dog remain in vibrant health eating that?
There was a day that I didn't know any better either. I fed my cats Meow Mix and Friskies. I read those labels today and shuttered to think that I fed that to my cats. I wondered why my cats didn't live very long. I guess that is why I got my degree in nutrition and started writing this blog, its to tell as many people as I can the benefits of eating a healthy diet for them, as well as their pets.
I am amazed that pet owners don't read labels to see what is in their pet's food. They just assume that the "well know" labels must be the best. The "famous company" mentioned above has a food for digestion problems for dogs. The first 5 ingredients were grains and the only "meat" was chicken fat. How can any dog remain in vibrant health eating that?
There was a day that I didn't know any better either. I fed my cats Meow Mix and Friskies. I read those labels today and shuttered to think that I fed that to my cats. I wondered why my cats didn't live very long. I guess that is why I got my degree in nutrition and started writing this blog, its to tell as many people as I can the benefits of eating a healthy diet for them, as well as their pets.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Resources for Pet First Aid
Pets are an important part of our families and it is essential to know the basics of first aid for our pet so that you are prepared if an emergency should arise. Pet first aid training ranges from dressing a wound or performing CPR to preparing for a natural disaster. Whether you choose to take a class, purchase a book or participate in an interactive online first aid course, the results can be life saving.
The American Red Cross offers pet first aid classes in many areas of the country. You can find a listing of the classes that are offered and their locations at: www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses/pfachapter.html. The American Red Cross also offers pet first-aid books (Dog First Aid and Cat First Aid) which can be purchased through their website. Some local ASPCA organizations, offer first aid classes as well. The ASPCA offers first aid kits, informative booklets and instructional videos through their online store www.ASPCA.org. There are also many interactive pet first aid classes offered online that will teach you the basics of what to do in case of an emergency. Search online for one that meets your needs.
The American Red Cross offers pet first aid classes in many areas of the country. You can find a listing of the classes that are offered and their locations at: www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses/pfachapter.html. The American Red Cross also offers pet first-aid books (Dog First Aid and Cat First Aid) which can be purchased through their website. Some local ASPCA organizations, offer first aid classes as well. The ASPCA offers first aid kits, informative booklets and instructional videos through their online store www.ASPCA.org. There are also many interactive pet first aid classes offered online that will teach you the basics of what to do in case of an emergency. Search online for one that meets your needs.
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