Identify and Treat the
Causes of Disease
Illness does not occur without cause. Causes may originate in many
areas. Underlying causes of illness and disease must be identified and
removed before complete recovery can occur. Symptoms can be expressions
of the body's attempt to defend itself, to adapt and recover, to heal itself,
or may be results of the causes of disease.
Are Antibiotics Making Your Pet Sick?
Richard J. Holliday, DVM - "Antibiotics disrupt the normal population
of beneficial microbes in the gastrointestinal tract of all animals, these
beneficial bacteria are the first fine of defense against most diseases,
without them the animal is more susceptible to other infections. Antibiotics
depress the immune system by decreasing the number of circulating white
blood cells. This lowers the animal's ability to fight infections. Some
antibiotics, such as chloramphenicol, can cause irreversible damage to
the bone marrow. Many bacteria develop resistance to the effects of antibiotics,
This resistance can be passed to other bacteria, The concern is that if
humans are exposed to resistant bacteria from animals then the use of antibiotics
may be Ineffective in treating any resulting disease. This is the major
controversy regarding the use of antibiotics on a regular basis in food
producing animals." Learn
about safe and effective alternative to antibiotics.
Are Steroids Making Your Pet Sick?
Dr. Jeffrey Levy - "Corticosteroids (cortisone-type anti-inflammatory
drugs) are the most abused and dangerous class of drugs. Not only do they
not
cure the underlying cause of the problem, they usually make the underlying
problem, that is, the real problem, worse."
Learn
about safe and effective alternative to steroids
Why "Cures" Sometimes Fail by
Dr. Leo Roy, M.D., N.D.
There are obstacles, barriers and impediments to healing. Failing to
consider obstacles to healing is possibly the most under-considered and
neglected aspect to getting well. Not considering these obstacles sets
us up to have potential cures fail, even those that are the most perfect
and effective treatments, those that are most perfectly programmed to all
our healing needs. Healing isn't always simple, easy, painless or automatic.
Problems arise from many factors of which you are likely not aware. Learn
about The Nature and Types of Obstacles to Healing.
Excessive
licking of the paws Dr. Dee Blanco, D.V.M
-
"You take healthy animals and often very quickly after you vaccinate, you
can see simple things like itching of the skin or excessive
licking of the paws, sometimes even with no eruptions," said Dee
Blanco, D.V.M., a holistic practitioner in Santa Fe, New Mexico. "We see
a lot of epilepsy, often after a rabies vaccination. Or dogs or
cats can become aggressive for several days. Frequently, you'll see urinary
tract infections in cats, often within three months after their [annual]
vaccination. If you step back, open your mind and heart, you'll start to
see patterns of illness post-vaccination."
Holistic veterinarians believe that vaccinations may contribute to premature
death in animals whose
immune
systems were already compromised. "I had two situations where we had
spent a long time building up two older, severely immunocompromised dogs,
and then their owners had them vaccinated for just about everything known
to man," recalled Dr. Carvel Tiekert DVM, executive director and
founder of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association headquartered
in Bel Air, Maryland. "Both of those dogs died within about a month of
vaccination. Can we prove a cause and effect? No. Do I think there was
a cause and effect? Yes." Learn
more about the Health Hazard of Routine Vaccination: placing our animals
at risk
One of my rescue dog suffered
from severe painful inflamation of its paws as a result of vaccination.
I treated him with homeopathic remedies
to help remove the vaccine poisons and to detox him. I also boosted his
immune system with raw food diet, flaxseed
oil, greens, and
Transfer
Factor. He eventually recovered. Shirley
SICK
OF DRUGGING YOUR PET? Learn about safe and effective alternatives
Managing
allergies, flea bites and hotspots: drugless approach----Animal
Cancer: natural treatments ---- Steroids: the
sleaziest of drugs --- Optimum Pet Diet
Acute
or Chronic Canine and Feline Kidney (Renal ) Failure
The kidneys' main function is to eliminate excess fluid and waste material
from the blood. When kidneys lose their filtering ability, dangerous
levels of fluid and waste accumulate in the body — a condition known as
kidney (renal) failure.
Presumably, the term “chronic kidney failure” suggests that the kidneys
have quit working and are, therefore, not making urine. However, by definition,
kidney failure is the inability of the kidneys to remove waste products
from the blood. This definition can occasionally create confusion because
some will equate kidney failure with failure to make urine. Kidney failure
is NOT the inability to make urine. Ironically, most dogs in kidney failure
are actually producing large quantities of urine, but the body’s wastes
are not being effectively eliminated.
The typical form of chronic kidney failure is the result of aging; it
is simply a “wearing out” process. The age of onset is related to the size
of the dog. For most small dogs, the early signs occur at about 10-14 years
of age. However, large dogs have a shorter age span and may go into kidney
failure as early as seven years of age.
"Kidney failure" might mean compromised, overworked kidneys - or it
might mean damaged kidneys (i.e., severe, chronic renal failure).
Kidneys can be damaged - irreparably, so the veterinary information says
- by a whole slew of environmental poisons and veterinary treatment drugs,
and via other disease forces as well (such as kidney infections, diabetes,
leptospirosis, cancer, as examples). And kidney problems can be inherited
(especially by certain breeds). (By the way, I've read that kidney
failure is supposedly easier to treat in cats than in dogs.) Kidney
failure (renal disease - increased thirst, dehydration, loss of appetite,
urination changes, maybe nausea and pain) is common in elderly pets - systems
do fail as we get older, whoever we are. But the kidneys are one
of the critical factors in eliminating toxins from the body - and they
become less efficient with age, and with toxin loading. (Which can
be a problem at any age, just like with humans.)"
Russell Swift, DVM on kidney disease - "Fortunately, since I
have turned to a holistic approach to wellness, I have seen many dogs and
cats outlive their death sentence by years. I believe there are three major
reasons for kidneys to degenerate and eventually fail: 1) poor
quality nutrition, 2) toxicity and 3) chronic
disease. I have discussed in many previous articles the failings of processed
foods. Inadequate and improper protein sources and low moisture content
(of dry foods) are the two major kidney stressors I believe occur in commercial
foods. The kidneys also take a hard hit from many toxins to which the body
is exposed. Many conventional medications, notably nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories
and certain antibiotics, are very damaging
to the kidneys. Ultimately, there is not much known about the long-term
effects of many food additives and preservatives; fluoride
in the drinking water; and all the pesticides and
herbicides used in, on and around our companion animals (and ourselves!).
Item number three on the list above is a term used by homeopaths to describe
a chronic disturbance in the body's function that results in symptoms.
When I am confronted with a dog or cat who has been diagnosed with
chronic renal (kidney) failure (CRF), I generally begin by educating the
animal's guardian about the dangers of commercial foods
and
the benefits of fresh-food feeding. Conventional veterinarians are under
the misunderstanding that low protein diets are the best way to feed an
animal with chronic renal failure. My experience is that such an approach
will lead to the death of the animal in a few months (thus bringing their
prognosis to fruition). I have found that just the opposite approach is
the most effective for most animals. I suggest feeding a high protein,
raw-meat-based
diet. I have seen dramatic reductions in elevated kidney blood tests
within two weeks in some patients. Why does conventional medicine do the
opposite? Because all of the conventional nutrition research is done with
processed foods. I haven't seen any done with raw foods. I believe this
is the reason for the research data.
Heat-treated animal protein, as found in commercial foods, is more difficult
to digest. This results in more protein (nitrogen) waste, which the kidneys
must remove from the bloodstream. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a protein
waste that is measured in a blood test. Therefore, a diet that has high
levels of cooked protein is more stressful to the kidneys and results in
higher toxicity (BUN) in the blood if the kidneys are not functioning well.
Raw protein, in comparison, digests more completely with less waste. This
results in more protein for healing and rebuilding tissue without the renal
stress. Remember, by nature carnivores eat a very high protein diet. They
should have the ability to handle it. Another benefit of the raw foods
is that they contain much more water than dry foods. This helps the kidneys
discharge waste material. I would not be writing this information if I
had not seen many animals improve on such a regimen. Other holistic vets
are having the same results." Chronic
kidney (renal) failure in cats
Kidney Disease / Diabetes - "I
have had diabetes for 38 of my 49 years and I've had kidney disease since1986.
In August of 1999, I went for my quarterly blood test for my kidneys. The
physician called me after the test was taken and said, "Not only are your
kidneys functioning well, after fourteen years, their function has improved
dramatically." My BUN (blood urea nitrogen) was near normal after fourteen
years of it being almost twice as high as it should be because my kidneys
weren't filtering well. The only supplemental change in my life was transfer
factor. Only once in my life did I endorse a product. I've been on
an insulin pump for seven years, and I've allowed my name, face, and testimony
to be used nationally. This is the second time, and it took alot to convince
me. Not only did it reverse my kidney disease, but this is the first year
in sixteen years that I haven't gotten a flu shot or gotten the flu or
bronchitis" Marc H. Blatstein, Former President,
Philadelphia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation
Dr. Sam Jones, DVM - "Two
cats, both about 8 years old, had severe diabetes. It was impossible
to get the insulin requirements adjusted. They had lost weight to a point
that they were skin and bones. Both cats had no quality of life left. After
one week of being on Transfer
Factor™; we were able to get their insulin requirements adjusted. It
is now 6 months and they have regained their weight and have a great quality
of life and health."
Feline kidney/bladder problem -
FELINE UROLOGICAL SYNDROME (FUS)
UTI-Free
is another remedy intended to soothe, lubricate, strengthen, and protect
urinary
tract tissues of dogs and cats. Holistic vets use this
herbal remedy and Transfer
Factor in the treatment of various forms of urinary tract
inflammation without irritating the kidneys. An antimicrobial, anti inflammatory,
soothing and tonifying designed to disinfect, sooth and protect the urinary
tract.
Diet
In the past, it was believed that a low protein diet was essential
in controlling Chronic Renal Failure (CRF). The idea behind this
is to cut down on the kidneys' load. However, studies done on dogs
in renal failure, show that a low protein diet did not help the GFR or
BUN of said dogs. Since cats have an even higher protein requirement
than dogs, it seems unlikely that they could thrive on low protein diets.
As an obligate carnivore, they need the nutrients only available from meat.
So one has to walk a fine line between making sure all the kitty's nutritional
needs are met, and keeping the stress on the kidneys as low as possible.
more
info
"Very Important to Feed a ALL Natural Diet
homeprepared meals of cooked or raw chicken ot
turkey meats ( any type of artifical foods that come
in tin or wrappter are full of chemical/toxins which will only continue
to burden the kidneys and add more toxins in the body. With more damage
the toxins that are normally filtered by the kidney begin to build up and
can cause depression, decreased appetite, a foul odor to the breath, oral
ulceration, and vomiting. In the end stage of renal failure, a low body
temperature, seizures, and severe depression and coma can result." Diana
Hayes DIHom
In his book Dr.
Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
Dr. Pitcairn write: "...Chemicals in food (like preservatives, coloring
agents and artificial flavoring agents) and in the environment (contaminated
water, air and soil) are directly stressful to the
kidneys and probably play a role in the development of the condition.
In addition, lack of adequate exercise and diminished exposure to natural
environments compound the problem of inadequate elimination and a sluggish
metabolism. ...Long-term skin irritation and eruption often seem to precede
eventual kidney failure in old age.
If the skin disorder is repeatedly suppressed with doses of cortisone or
related corticosteroid drugs, the relationship seems especially true."
(danger of cortisone)
Dr.Hamilton DVM says ... 'diets
that are low in potassium can cause renal failure.' In general Commercial
diets are of poor quality protein and poorly formulated and may have
led to the development of renal disease. (Natural
Kidney Diet)
Marine
Phytoplankton is great for pets too! Marine
Phytoplankton contains all the essential components of life. The percentage
of rejuvenating elements in plankton remarkably exceeds those present in
brewer's yeast and wheat germ. Plankton corrects the deficient or unbalanced
nutrition, common in the customs of our present-day civilization of consuming
incomplete foods, often with added chemical ingredients, which expose us
to physiological problems as various as they are numerous.
- Learn about Marine
Phytoplankton Medical Miracles
Natural Treatments
with suplements, herbs and homeopathy
Bladder
Stones
Dr.
Dunn DVM - "In dogs and cats, grain-based diets contribute to alkaline
urine; meat-based diets promote a more acid urine.
If a bacterial infection does occur the waste products of those bacteria
promote an alkaline urine. Plus the bacteria may provide a nice little
solid object upon which dissolved minerals can precipitate (come out of
a solution and become a solid). Any patient who has had repeat urinary
tract infections should always be evaluated for bladder stones. Kidney
stones, fortunately, happen far less often in dogs and cats than bladder
stones; but the possibility of kidney stones should always be considered
in urinary tract disease. Certain types of urinary tract stones can
be prevented by special dietary changes. Genetic programming of kidney
function and structure plays a role in the formation of bladderstones and
certain breeds (Schnauzers, for example) often seem more predisposed to
kidney and bladder trouble than some other breeds. The Dalmatian
has a unique physiology and displays a type of stone formation called Urate
Stones. Modern veterinary medicine can be of great assistance
to dogs and cats that develop bladder stones. Good diets and follow-up
care can help our dog and cat friends survive and thrive... even after
a surgery such as this." Bladder
Stone Surgery In A Dog
Canine
Hip Dysplasia
Symptoms: Less energy and movement; difficulty rising; lameness
in the back legs; reluctance to use stairs (particularly to go up); reluctance
to jump or stand on hind limbs; swaggering gait, bunny-hopping gait; soreness
after lying down; soreness after heavy exercise.
Ester-C: Miracle
Cure for Hip Dysplasia?
Dr. Geir Erick Berge, a veterinarian in Oslo, Norway, performed a study,
that was reported in the August-September 1990 issue of The Norwegian Veterinary
Journal. Berge selected 100 dogs with a variety of joint ailments. His
testing revealed that 75 percent of the dogs rapidly improved on Ester-C,
some only slightly, some almost totally. Dr. Berge added that large amounts
of Vitamin C metabolites, substances essential to a body's metabolic processes,
are required in rebuilding diseased joint tissue. Corroborating data
were also reported by Dr. N. Lee Newman, who conducted 18 months of clinical
tests using Ester-C to combat degenerative joint disease in performance
horses. She reported a remarkable 90 percent success rate, ranging from
good to excellent. Furthermore, 80 percent of the improved horses remained
sound after Ester-C was discontinued. Newman credited supplemental Ester-C
with maintaining the integrity of collagen and connective tissue and with
mobilizing white cells in the immune system, while deactivating free radicals
that damage cell membranes.
My poodle, Sydney, was experiencing
excruciating and continuous neck and back pain which the Veterinarian diagnosed
as Degenerative Disk Disease. Consequently, the Vet prescribed an anti-inflammatory
(steroids) and pain medication. Knowing that steroids have
very bad side effects and were nota cure, I searched for an alternative
to "modern" medicine. I discovered Transfer Factor Advance
Formula which I hoped would at least help Sydney's auto-immune problem.
Once I received my first shipment of Transfer Factor products I began to
safely wean Sydney off the steroids. Within 4 days of taking the
Transfer Factor, minimal steroids and NO pain medication, Sydney appeared
to experience no discomfort and ease of mobility. I have continued
administering Transfer Factor Advanced Formula with no steroids or pain
medication. During his first week on this "new" treatment", he ran
and played like a puppy without pain. Today, he continues to be very mobile,
frisky, and seemingly pain free. My wife and I believe that his disease
is due to excessive in-breeding and more importantly over
vaccination. We have since ceased his Veterinarian prescribed
heart worm medication, provided an alternative heart worm therapy (Parasite
Dr.), and continued administering Transfer Factor Advanced Formula. ( Danger
of heart worm medication - Transfer
Factor in veterinary medicine )
Noticing Sydney's success,
I began taking Transfer Factor Advanced Formula for my psoriasis.
Whether my auto-immune system was compromised as a child with vaccinations,
I do not know. However, I do know that the evidence of psoriasis
has greatly diminished. I now plan to increase my dosage. I believe,
Transfer Factor products accompanied with a healthy lifestyle has changed
my dog's and my health. Houston Ham (850) 245-8527
email: hham *@* hcsmail.com
Ester
C vitamin
Cushing's
Disease
The adrenal glands of dogs with Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocortism)
produce excessive amounts of cortisol, a hormone with potent anti-inflammatory
and immuno-suppressive effects. The large amount of cortisol in
the body suppresses the immune system and allows the pet with Cushing’s
disease to get bacterial infections. Sometimes it is the adrenal
glands themselves that cause the levels of cortisol to rise if a tumor
is present. Tumors may also be present in pituitary glands. These tumors
may be benign or malignant. Dogs that have been previously treated for
allergic conditions or immune disorders can also contract Cushing’s disease
from prolonged use of corticosteroid drugs. This is called iatrogenic
disease. If this is the case in the dog, the veterinarian will reduce the
current steroid treatment in to lower cortisone levels.
One of the most common, and often the only visible symptom of Cushing's
Disease is a drastic increase in thirst, which causes excessive water intake.
Please remember though, this is ONE symptom, and it is not even a symptom
of Cushing's exclusively! This is also a symptom of Addison's disease,
which is the direct opposite of Cushing's Disease. Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
which involves appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness.
Dr. Lauren De Rock
- "I see Transfer
Factor and Transfer Factor Plus as wonderful preventative for horses
under stress for any reason, or horses subjected to the diseases they can
be exposed to at barns, shows, and travel to other parts of the country.
It is the first line of defense. If given early, the horse may completely
eliminate the problem. Even if given later in the course of a disease
process, many times it will significantly shorten the course of the disease.
Here is a list of the kinds of conditions that Dr. Slagle, other
veterinarians and I have treated successfully with Transfer Factor and
Transfer Factor Plus: Various non-malignant, and malignant tumors: canine
lipomas, canine/feline hepatic tumors, squamous cell carcinomas, equine
melanomas, sarcoids, feline leukemia, feline and canine oral tumors, sebaceous
cysts, and canine basal cell tumors. Viral/Bacterial conditions: upper/lower
respiratory infections, canine/feline dermatoses, equine/bovine/porcine
scours, equine septic arthritis, abscesses (including a life-threatening
deep Clostridial abscess in a horse), Dry Land Distemper, Strangles, EPM.
Other: Head-shaker syndrome, Periodic Ophthalmia, hives, and girth
itch. COPD, Cushing’s Disease, Pre- or Para-
Cushing’s Disease, Laminitis, Founder, reproductive dis-function. The list
goes on and on. When I started working with 4-Life products, there were
no horse formulas. We used human capsules, both TF and TF Plus with huge
success. "
How
To Modulate Your Animal's Immune System
Natural
treatments for animal cancer
Gum disease in our pets
A study demonstrated that the daily addition of the chew to the dry
diet was effective in reducing plaque (at one week and three weeks) and
calculus (at three weeks) accumulation on the tooth surfaces. The daily
addition of the chew also reduced the severity of gingivitis as compared
to feeding the dry diet only. The reduction of the severity of gingivitis
is promising. though whether such a reduction will prevent the development
of periodontitis or not remains to be shown. Further work is required to
establish the long term periodontal health benefits offering dietary regimens
designed to improve dental hygiene. Dental
Hygiene: Maintaining Periodontal Health in Dogs
Dr. Pitcairn DVM - "In the natural state, carnivores do not develop
calculus (tartar). Domesticated animals, in contrast, are not eating their
natural diet and the softer food accumulates on the outside of the teeth
in an area where it cannot easily be cleaned off. It is familiar to us
that we can put our tongue in between our teeth and the inside of the cheeks
to clean out accumulated food. Dogs and cats cannot do that as their teeth
are too sharp. In the natural state, carnivores keep the outside teeth
clean by gnawing on bones, a process you can still see with both dogs and
cats accustomed to eating bones. If you observe the position they take,
you will see that they use their side teeth in a sliding motion along the
bone and this scrapes off any residue left from eating. The obvious solution
to the problem of tartar accumulation in domestic animals is to give them
bones to chew on. In my experience this is the most effective method and,
for many animals, will clean the teeth to perfection." Dr.
Pitcairn DVM
Dr Tom Lonsdale - "Now we treat the periodontal disease
and provide the pets with a natural diet. The removal of the poisons allows
the immune system to recover and owners frequently report that their old
pet is like a puppy/kitten again. Modern processed diets are known to be
responsible for periodontal or gum disease which affects more than 85%
of domestic cats and dogs. Foul breath odour is an early sign suggesting
that more severe heart, liver and kidney disease may follow. An article
published in the December 1995 issue of the British Journal of Small Animal
Practice confirms that processed pet foods produce periodontal disease
which often leads to an AIDS-like condition in affected animals. (JSAP
1995 36, 542-546) Dr Tom Lonsdale of Riverstone NSW the author of
the paper admits that he, along with almost everyone else, used to recommend
processed pet foods."Previously we thought animals were suffering the
effects of old age when in fact they were wasting away with periodontal
disease and diet-induced AIDS." Many
pets not old but stricken with diet-induced AIDS
I let my dog Shasta chew on a RAW bone everyday
to promote a good jaw work-out. It massages her gums/glands, cleans her
teeth, reduce plaque, prevent gingivitis and provide much needed nutrition
and minerals. Shirley
"The most significant conclusion of this study is that conventional
dog biscuits are of NO EFFECT as a teeth cleaning aid for dogs. Sodium
hexametaphosphate is commonly used as part of household detergents! The
simplest and most cost effective way of keeping a dog's teeth and gums
healthy is a natural diet which includes raw meaty bones. " Study
Conclusion of clinical trial about Heinz
Tartar Check Dog Biscuits
Lyme
disease - Fact from Fiction
(One aim of my website is
to present views which do not necessarily conform to the views of the establishment.
Shirley
)
Not all ticks carry a disease
causing organism, and just because you had a tick bite does not mean you
will get Lyme disease. Even if a tick is a carrier, its bite may not always
cause the development of disease, but proper caution and care always is
crucial in prevention.
Dr. Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S. "...Lyme disease has often
been nicknamed the great imitator. This is because many of the symptoms
can mimic symptoms of many other diseases because it can effect so many
different organ systems. I remember one gordon setter puppy I saw and the
first symptom of Lyme disease that showed up was lack of appetite and an
arrythmia in the heart that I picked up on my exam. It only got stiff and
lame three days later. Fortunately I knew the heart problem wasn't there
a few weeks prior on a normal exam and was suspicious of Lyme and we treated
it successfully and the heart problem resolved. When considering Lyme disease
as a possibility, one must also think about other tick-transmitted diseases
such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or canine erlichiosis. Arthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, other joint diseases as well as kidney failure or
heart problems from other causes need to be considered as well."
"What is the best treatment? As I mentioned previously, this is one
place where I feel strongly that immediate antibiotic therapy is imperative.
It appears that doxycycline and amoxicillin seem to be the best antibiotics
against Lyme disease. I suggest staying on antibiotics for a minimum of
a month, sometimes even longer. I have seen dogs that were only on antibiotics
for two weeks and then it comes back with a vengeance and does not respond
as well afterwards. A holistic approach would also include using probiotics
such as acidophilus to keep the healthy bacteria alive in your pets gastrointestinal
tract. In addition, it has been found that the organism can actually further
suppress the immune system. So I usually recommend nutritional
and herbal support to boost the immune system as well. This would include
Echinacea
and garlic as I have mentioned in previous columns of the Healing Arts.
Sometimes I see chronic Lyme disease in a dog or cat and I will also use
acupuncture to boost the immune system and relieve the pain and inflammation.
Homeopathic
remedies have also appeared to be helpful. The most successful of these
include homeopathic Ledum and a Lyme nosode. Lyme nosode is a homeopathic
remedy that is made from the killed organism, diluted, successed and potentized
to the point that nothing of the original organism remains. For appropriate
dosages of these remedies, you should contact a homeopathic
veterinarian."
Excerpt taken
from Lyme Disease:
Fact from Fiction by Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S.
Ticks may carry various infectious organisms that can transmit diseases
to cats and dogs. The following listed symptoms of Lyme disease are similar
to the "Vaccinosis" symptoms of vaccines side effects.
and/or the side effects of some allopathic pet medications.
-
babesiosis: lethargy,
appetite loss, weakness, pale gums
-
ehrlichiosis: high fever,
muscle aches
-
Lyme disease: lameness,
swollen joints, fever, poor appetite, fatigue, and vomiting (some infected
animals show no symptoms)
-
tick paralysis in dogs:
gradual paralysis, seen first as an unsteady gait from uncoordinated back
legs (some infected dogs don't develop paralysis)." Dixie Farley- FDA Consumer
magazine (July-August 1996)
Treatment of acute Lyme Disease or other tick borne diseases in pets with
Natural remedies
Testimonials
of
amazing animal health improvements and cures of cancer and other chronic
disease with natural, alternative health care and optimum nutrition. This
is a collection of emails I received over the years and for which I received
the permission to publish on my site. With each testimonial you will find
an email address to facilitate correspondance, feedback and support.
The
Allergy Cover-Up The natural way to treat allergies
Alfred
Plechner, DVM - "The most common and most visible symptoms of nutritionally
caused deficiencies are allergies of one kind
or another. Because many commercial foods are woefully deficient
in key nutrients, the long term effect of feeding such foods makes the
dog hypersensitive to its environment ....It's a dinosaur effect. Animals
are being programmed for disaster, for extinction. Many of them are biochemical
cripples with defective adrenal glands unable to manufacture adequate cortisol,
a hormone vital for health and resistance to disease." click
here fo more information on managing allergies, flea bites and hotspots
naturally
When
a veterinarian has determined the cause or factors contributing to the
allergy, he or she will make some recommendations. If the gut needs attention,
most will suggest changing your companion's diet to one that is home prepared
or the equivalent. Common food allergens such as wheat, beef, corn, soy,
and sometimes rice, chicken, plastic feeding bowls and utensils, chemical
cleaners, detergents and sometimes even vitamin and essential fatty acid
supplements must be eliminated. Dr. Tom Boekbinder of the Carmel Holistic
Clinic in Carmel, California, recommends serving raw
meat and veggies and eliminating grains.
"Turkey and fish are the least inflammatory," says Dr. Boekbinder, "but
you must cook west coast fish. For severe hotspots on dogs, I recommend
starting with a seven to ten-day fast with just water.
The skin clears up quickly on a fast but few people are willing to fast
their dog. It's too hard for them to see their animal go hungry." You should
keep in mind that, in a study, dogs were fasted for 62 days, at which time
they could still jump onto the examination table and, although thin, showed
no signs of illness. Food was gradually reintroduced and all the dogs regained
their weight and strength. Fasting is never recommended for cats because
of the risk of hepatic lipidosis, a serious and often fatal condition.
Dr. Beltram says that most commercial foods "are processed at high temperature
and pressure, which creates an interaction between the carbohydrates and
the protein in the food and produces 'maillard' proteins. These new chemicals
are highly allergenic. If the bowel is leaky, the allergens will go through
the filter." When changing your companion's food to home prepared,
make sure you do your research so you feed a well
balanced diet.
Routine Vaccination Can Trigger Allergies
Dr. Blanco, D.V.M - "You take healthy animals and often very quickly
after
you vaccinate, you can see simple things like
itching of the skin or excessive
licking of the paws, sometimes even with no eruptions. We see a lot
of epilepsy, often after a rabies vaccination. Or dogs or cats can
become aggressive for several days. Frequently, you'll see urinary
tract infections in cats, often within three months after their [annual]
vaccination. If you step back, open your mind and heart, you'll start to
see patterns of illness post-vaccination." more about
vaccinosis
Sometimes, infections are secondary to the underlying cause of the allergies.
Tommy, a 9 1/2-year-old golden retriever, was suffering terribly from allergies.
He had itchy skin and ears, scabs, open sores, hair loss and impacted anal
glands. While his problems used to be seasonal, he now scratched throughout
the year. He was on medication for hypothyroidism (which is often an underlying
cause of various skin problems) and Panalog for his ears. I changed his
diet to raw meat and vegetables with no grains
and added a multi-vitamin supplement as well as digestive
enzymes, probiotics, homeopathic remedies
for support and detoxification and a natural enzyme based ear drop (Zymox)
for the secondary infection in his ears. After two to three weeks, his
condition was not improved and his guardians were worried.At four weeks,
I received a phone call to let me know Tommy's turnaround was absolute;
he stopped scratching and his skin started healing.
Our
pets are prone to suffer from minerals and trace mineral deficiency. For
optimum health, I supplement my animal's diet (and my diet too) with the
following: fulvic minerals and/or marine
phytoplankton (consist of an immense arsenal and array of naturally
occuring powerful phytochemicals, biochemicals, supercharged antioxidants,
free-radical scavengers, super oxide dismutases, nutrients, enzymes, hormones,
amino acids, antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals); bee
pollen (rich in naturally occuring vitamins); kelp
(marine plants to enhance health and detoxify), the
right kind of salt
(not common table salt); clay
(to promote healing and to detoxify) and with flaxoil
(also knows as linseed oil - rich source of omega 3 fatty acids). My animals
do not drink
tap water. I give them only carbon filtered water which
is free from toxic chlorine and fluoride and I add therapeutic clay to
the water. I never cook or warm up food in a microwave
oven. Please read about the Hidden Hazards of
Microwave Cooking
Limit exposure to toxins and allergens
For obvious reasons, it"s best to avoid further toxins as much as possible.
Avoid pharmaceutical drugs such as flea and heart worm prevention unless
deemed necessary, as well as antibiotics,
antihistamines,
steroids, etc. Vaccines
are toxic and you should have a titer test done to determine if your
animal is still protected from previous immunizations. According to Dr.
Beltram, "the complex chemicals (aluminum, mercury salts) and antigens
in vaccines trigger an erratic reaction of the immune system. Vaccines
given when the animal has a high titer are even more damaging because a
state of hyper-reactivity already exists. If the animal is revaccinated,
the immune system is pushed one more time and may start reacting with other
substances such as food. So often the stage was set for allergies after
the second or third booster vaccination." If your animal experiences allergic
symptoms after vaccination, try using homeopathic thuja (two pellets of
30CH once a week for three weeks).
Also try to avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides (wipe your animal
down after a walk), contact allergens such as poison ivy, fleas, toxins
in meat (use chemical-free or organic meat when possible) and veggies and
fruits (use organic or peel these). Use spring, distilled or reverse osmosis
water. Check the pollen count and keep your animal inside during peak times.
You can also consider putting a pollen filter on your furnace and using
the air conditioner on high pollen days.
Supporting the immune system Because
70% of the immune system is in the gut (Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue),
healing the gut and providing Probiotics
goes a long way in supporting and regulating the immune system. In addition,
you can balance the system with
immune
modulators such as Moducare (plant sterolins and sterols) or Ag Immune
by Body Wise. These substances will down regulate a hyperactive immune
system in an allergic patient and/or up regulate a lowered immunity in
cases of repeated infections.
Hotspot areas should be shaved or scissored
to clear away hair and then gently cleansed with a mild soap and water
solution. For painful spots, Dr. Harcourt recommends bee propolis, which
she says numbs the skin. As well, she suggests providing pleasurable distractions
such as walks, playtime, massage and raw bone chewing to get through difficult
hotspots. As much as possible try not to use suppressive
treatments such as hydrocortisone, which can do long-term damage.
Making better health your goal
Although
different holistic vets use different approaches with allergic animals,
their goal is the same and their results similar. Using
natural means, mildly allergic animals will usually recover quickly
and completely. Severely allergic animals may take six to twelve months
or more to get to a complete cure. A few may improve tremendously and get
back to only seasonal allergies as opposed to year-round suffering. Whatever
the case, combining time and patience with your holistic veterinarian's
recommendations will help your companion's health improve and won't cause
any further damage in the future.
Sidebar: Naturopathic principles for animals suffering
from allergies
-
Do no harm. The animal's condition must not be made worse in the long run
to alleviate symptoms. Vaccines and flea
and heart worm prevention can add to the body's toxic load, which can
lead to further immune system compromise.
-
Identify and eliminate the cause/s and obstacles to cure.
First, rule out skin parasites such as mites, fleas, ringworm (a fungal
infection), Leishmaniasis (for dogs from warmer climates) and systemic
diseases such hypothyroidism, Lupus, Vasculitis, Phemphigus, etc. Identify
and, if possible, avoid allergens to give rapid relief. Look at the animal's
environment when considering allergens (pollens, plastics, nylon, wool,
etc.), toxins (pesticides, chemicals, etc.), irritants and more.
-
Use the curative power of nature. By eliminating causes and supporting
organ and immune function with good diet, detoxification
and supplements, the body will heal itself.
"Allergies represent more than a local inflammation of the skin.
They reflect a constitutional state. From a holistic standpoint, the approach
to treatment recognizes the deeper constitutional state and restores order
and balance to the whole animal." Cynthia Harcourt, DVM, Queensville,
ON
This article is reprinted
by permission of Animal
Wellness Magazine
Dr. Nancy Scanlan, DVM
-
"When pet foods are heat processed, as most are, enzyme concentration is
significantly reduced. For this reason, adding digestive
enzymes to your pet's food will enhance absorption of nutrients. A
high quality, broad spectrum supplement provides the required enzyme activity
to help your pet achieve superior digestive health. With daily use, you
should see marked improvement in the skin, coat and energy of your pet,
and less gas formation (or flatulence) and improved consistency in the
stool."
Arthur
Young DVM, a Certified Homeopathic Veterinarian, uses glyconutrients/saccharides
in his practice on all animals from birds to horses. He always advises
his clients to add glyconutrients to their pets diet. Decades of consuming
nutritionally questionable commercial pet food products, the proven harmful
effects of over vaccination, combined with the unfortunate dependency on
steroids and antibiotics have, according to many reliable sources greatly
contributed to a national decline in animal health. The innate ability
of the body to heal itself has been seriously compromised in many animals,
particularly dogs, cats, and horses. Glyconutrients/saccharides are compatible
with any type of treatment prescribed by both conventional and alternative
practitioners. These essential carbohydrates strengthen the body’s inner
environment which, in turn, enhances the energy that stimulates the immune
system, as well as a process called “cell communication”. This communication
network results in all of the organs working with one another in an orderly
sequence of body reactions. Without these activities, good health is impossible
to attain. Although the formulation is produced for human consumption,
holistic veterinarians have also recognized the importance of glyconutrients
in supporting the handling of health challenges in animals. Credit goes
to Günter Blobel, M.D., Ph.D. (Rockefeller University), winner of
the 1999 Nobel Prize for Medicine "for the discovery that (glyco) proteins
have intrinsic signals that govern their transport and localization in
the cell." More about nature's enzyme therapy
Ear
Inflammation/Irritation
Dennis W. Thomas, DVM - "As a pet owner, it is
important to know that persistent or recurring ear infections in a dog
commonly are manifestations of other concurring disease processes. Allergies
and hypothyroidism are good examples. Systemic allergies often cause dermatitis
and itching in the ear canal, which predispose self-trauma and subsequent
ear infection. Hypothyroidism may manifest itself as increased thickness
of the skin and continual release of exudate in the ear canal, which favors
an environment for otitis externa. It is not wise
to use cotton tip applicators in the ear canal. This can be quite painful
to the dog. Also, I don't recommend using alcohol in a dog's ear.
Alcohol
will dry the ear, but if there is inflammation or small scratches in the
canal, the alcohol will burn and cause tremendous pain and further
inflammation. If you must use a product from the shelf at home,
use
white vinegar diluted 50:50 with water. " more
on dog's ear care
At the recent American Veterinary Medical Association meeting in Philadelphia,
Craig Griffin of Animal Dermatology Clinic and Animal Allergy Specialists
in San Diego, said normal dogs do not need to have their ears cleaned.
"There is something wrong with a dog if it needs to have its ears cleaned
all the time. That "something wrong" is often allergies.
Griffin said 80 percent of food-allergic or atopic dogs (dogs who have
skin problems because of environmental allergens) will have a history of
ear problems and/or have to have their ears cleaned to prevent ear disease.
Hypothyroidism will also cause chronic ear problems, as will an ear mite
infestation." Knight
Ridder
Note
from Shirley: My dog Kuuma had injured his left ear while scratching
it and it was bleeding from that small wound. The ear became inflammed,
bright red, hot, itchy and Kuuma was miserable, shaking his head constantly.
Kuuma never't let me touch the inside of his ears but I managed by
surprise to quickly pour into his ear about 20 drops of a mixture
of 50% organic white vinegar and 50% colloidal
silver water with an eye dropper. I also gave him homeopathic
remedies to soothe the inflammation (acontine 3c, belladona 1M,
arnica 30c, and rhus tox 30c, a few pellets of each, repeatedly every 5
minutes for up to 3 or 4 doses.) and whithin a 20 minutes, the pain
and inflammation had gone down 99%, the bleeding stopped and the color
was back to normal, he stopped shaking his head was able to rest comfortably.
Usually I don't bother his ears. He keeps his ears clean by shaking his
head which expulses wax out effectively. When I see a problem starting
to develop with his ears, I gently apply the Recovazon
Topical Gel (contains aloe very and natural healing herbs) into the
ears to soothe the emerging inflammation and irritation before it becomes
too severe.
Natural Treatment
for Ear Mites
by William Pollak D.V.M.
Ear mites are common in cats and dogs. Cats usually start them and they're
the last to be treated. Direct physical contact is an important part of
transmission from one animal to another. A cat with ear mites will scratch
its ears frequently and a deposit that looks like dried coffee grounds,
black, gray or even white will form down in the ear canals. A dog will
scratch and shake its head and its ear canal may look quite red and inflamed.
Bacterial and fungal infections secondary to ear mites is another layer
of imbalance. Reducing redness and inflammation from secondary infection
is the first order of business, as medications and remedies that help kill
ear mites can sometimes act as an irritant to a sensitized ear canal.
Homemade, natural, Ear mite treatment suggestion:
Step 1:
Make a mixture of 1/2 ounce of almond or olive oil and 400 IU vitamin
E in a dropper bottle. Warm to body temperature and put about 1/2 dropper
full in the ear, massaging the ear canal well for a minute or so. Let your
pet shake its head and then gently clean out the opening with cotton swabs.
Q-tip type applicators may compact material already in the ear canal. Apply
the oil every other day for six days. Then let the ears rest for 3 days.
(The oil mixture will smother many of the mites and start a healing process.)
Step 2:
Using a tincture of the herb Yellow Dock, dilute it with water (9 drops
to 1 tablespoon of water). Treat the ears with this mixture, as described
above, once every 3 days for 6 weeks. Ear mite eggs are quite resistant
to just about anything after they have already hardened, that is why a
six-week period of treatment is recommended. The eggs will continue to
hatch out in cycles and if medicine is present for six continuous weeks
(medicine administered will last for four days) there will be no more eggs
present.
You may need to thoroughly shampoo the head and ears (and the tip of
the tail), because the mites can leave the ears; they do like to go for
night trips to check out the terrain and might crawl back in after treatment.
The tip of the tail may have a few mites from when it is curled near the
head. Make a tea infusion of yellow dock and use it as a final rinse.
Generally a healthy animal will have fewer problems with ear mites,
so improving the diet will help in prevention and recovery. Feeding a natural
raw meat diet or a super-concentrated, preservative free commercial diet
like PHD will improve overall health and reduce the likelihood of frequent
parasitic infections. Supplementing with garlic and brewer's yeast is especially
helpful.
Has your dog suffered from ear infection after ear infection after ear
infection? Are you sick of giving your dog antibiotics and other
expensive toxic drugs while your precious dog still has chronic ear infections?
Learn
why chronic ear infections occur as a result of overuse of antibiotics.
Vinegar
and Water Ear Wash
Dennis W. Thomas, DVM
- "As a pet owner, it is important to know that persistent or recurring
ear infections in a dog commonly are manifestations of other concurring
disease processes. Allergies and hypothyroidism are good examples. Systemic
allergies often cause dermatitis and itching in the ear canal, which predispose
self-trauma and subsequent ear infection. Hypothyroidism may manifest itself
as increased thickness of the skin and continual release of exudate in
the ear canal, which favors an environment for otitis externa. It
is not wise to use cotton tip applicators in the ear canal. This can be
quite painful to the dog. Also, I don't recommend using alcohol in a dog's
ear. Alcohol will dry the ear, but if there is inflammation
or small scratches in the canal, the alcohol will burn and cause tremendous
pain and further inflammation. If you must use a product from the shelf
at home, use white vinegar diluted 50:50 with water. " more
on dog's ear care
Herbal
Ear Formula for pets An effective blend of therapeutic herbs
and mild cleansers. Cleans ears and eliminates odor - Dissolves ear wax.
- Removes dirt and debris - Soothes minor irritations. -Leaves ears dry,
which discourages regrowth of harmful bacteria and fungus. - Non-toxic.
NutriBiotic
Ear Drops are an excellent topical treatment for ear infections and
aches, swimmer’s ear, and over-production of wax. This soothing, antiseptic
formula helps ease pain, treat local infection, and soothe itchy, irritated
skin.
Natural
Pet Ear Cleaner Solution Dirt and wax accumulation in the outer ear
and ear canal can lead to infections and discomfort for your pet. If your
pets are rubbing or scratching their ears regularly then get close to them
and have a look.
Additional natural safe herbal
treatment for ear inflammation or infections:
Grapefruit
Seed Extract, Golden Seal, Echinacea
and Mullein
You can learn more about Infectious Disease: Effective
Alternatives to Antibiotics
How To
Boost Your Animal's Immune System
Effects
of Symptom Suppression
by Russell Swift, DVM
Although many symptoms can be very difficult to tolerate, especially
skin and ear problems, one must bear in mind the very high cost (in terms
of future wellness) one pays for simply suppressing them. "Would I rather
my dog itch or have liver problems?" is the type of question an animal
guardian needs to bear in mind whenever the temptation to suppress a symptom
arises.
A puppy has a skin rash. The rash is treated with medicine. After the
rash is gone, the puppy has diarrhea. This is a move from level one to
level two. This is going in the WRONG direction. The symptom has been suppressed
and the animal's immunity has been further weakened. The diarrhea is treated
with another medicine. The stools normalize but the pet begins to limp.
It has been suppressed to level three
A cat has ringworm. The ringworm is treated with a medicine which makes
it disappear. However, the cat develops a urinary tract problem. Again,
this is movement from level one to level two meaning suppression. This
is treated with medicine and the cat has cardiomyopathy one year later.
This is suppression from level two to level four. more
Why elimination of the symptom is NOT the same as elimination
of the disease
Some veterinarians encourage health; they "give health a chance" and
are conduits of healing rather than dispensers of medicaments designed
to patch over and temporarily conceal what the body is screaming out loud
for.
Dr. Bernstein DVM - "Modern medicine feels, in most cases, that
the elimination of the symptom is the same as elimination of the disease.
In allopathic medicine a symptom is usually thought of as the patient's
real disease and the goal is to hold back, decrease or eliminate this symptom.
This is often done without addressing the underlying cause. If your tooth
hurts and we inject a local anesthetic, the pain goes away but that does
not mean the problem is gone! If we use medications to suppress these symptoms
then the vital force tries to create new symptoms to compensate for the
imbalance that is still there. If the vital force is strong then the original
symptom may return. Otherwise, it may be unable to express on the same
level and create a symptom that is more interior and could be much worse
per Herring's Law.
One example is a skin rash that is treated with cortisone. The rash
and itching will probably go away quickly. Later the patient begins to
exhibit liver problems that "were caused by the cortisone".
The liver symptoms are actually an expression of this suppressed imbalance
on a deeper more interior level. Many things can be suppressive. Vaccines
and allopathic medications are a major source of suppression where homeopathy
is concerned, but herbs, acupuncture and incorrect homeopathic remedies
can also be suppressive."
Dr.
Bernstein DVM
Want
to see your veterinary bills drop by 65%?
Catherine O'Driscoll has owned Golden Retrievers since 1985. During
the early years visits to veterinary surgeons were frequent and expensive.
Three of her dogs died at very young ages - 4, 5 and 6 years. After the
first died she began to research the issues of dog health. What she found
was astounding and changed the lives of her dogs for the better. So much
so that the veterinary bills dropped by more than 65%. Others, who have
followed her advice, have seen their visits to veterinarians reduce by
85% and their dogs are fitter and healthier than ever before. But more
than that, Catherine has developed the application of EFT for the treatment
of animals. EFT can be learn by people quickly and easily without the need
for veterinary support. So if you would like to know more about how you
and friends or fellow dog owners can achieve these benefits
visit her website
Holistic
veterinary care - part
1 - part 2 - part 3
- part 4 - part
5
Dr.
Jones DVM - "The Truth Behind The Pet Food Recall"
WHAT
VETS DON'T TELL YOU ABOUT VACCINES Read
the comments of veterinarians who believe that vaccines are damaging our
pets. This information will make you cry and aware of the scam that is
the mainstay of the veterinary field. Learn the truth about the terrible
suffering of pets and their owners and what can be done to protect your
animals from the drug companies and ignorant vets. 'Shock
to the System' covers the latest information on the vaccine issue,
and puts the other pieces of the puzzle into the picture. Diet, environmental
toxins, pharmaceuticals and stress all play a part in the health of companion
animals.
