Natural Pet News - 9/22/06
September 22, 2006
Sponsored by Healthy Pet Corner
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A NOTE FROM DONNA
In Central Virginia we've got Fall in the air. Mornings are chilly and afternoons luxurious. The colors in the garden are still vibrant and the hummingbirds have not had their fill to make them ready for their long journey south.
This week we had the opportunity to visit an American Chestnut Restoration Project over in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Nelson County. It was a beautiful day and we learned a lot about American Chestnuts which were devasted with a blight that killed most of them in the earlier 20th century. This tree provided wood for many things since it was a fast-growing hardwood, easy to split and bug-resistant. We took photos of our American Chestnut Field Trip where we got to see wildflowers also.
If you enjoy reading things about the natural world around us, be sure to join me at A Touch of Nature for a twice-monthly mailing. I love learning and sharing about the birds, critters and plants, along with some green living and shopping tips.
Note From Last Month's Issue:
You will notice that we are no longer linking to the sites referenced in the newsletters unless they are maintained by us. This is because over the years we have archived thousands of issues of our newsletters and as sites have shut down, change platform languages which makes previous links dead, and with the fact that news site links become dead after a certain period of time, we end up with a bunch of dead links on our websites which affect our search engine rankings. Taking off these links one at a time has been very laborsome over the years, so we've changed our format on the newsletters. The segments that have links outside of our own sites will not be clickable ones, but you can cut and paste them into your browser bar.
Give your pet a hug from me today :-)
Donna
NATURAL HEALTH FOR PETS
Our website has a detailed pet section with an online catalog by health topic, natural health information for pets, free consultations, natural heartworm programs, instructions on how to give herbs to pets, and lots more. Visit The Herbs Place for Pets.
PET NEWS
Healthy Pet NewsletterNatural Pet News is now sent once a month instead of two. We would like for you to replace the other issue with another professional monthly newsletter with content from nationaly-known veterinarian, Dr. Jane Bicks.
View a sample issue or join the mailing list. Here's an article on Separation Anxiety that was in one of their issues. This seems to be a growing problem. I guess the stress of our lives and world have spilled over into the pets' nervous systems also.
One Year After Hurricane Katrina for Pets
100,000 companion animals were left homeless because of Hurricane Katrina. Tens of thousands have been rescued and are in adoption shelters around the country, but due to the enormous amount of pets displaced by the storm, there is very little space left in U.S. shelters, so there is nowhere to send the thousands who still need to be rescued.
If you are considering a new pet, please adopt from a local shelter. By doing so, you will be helping to make room for the others still waiting for a place to be fed and cared for, and hopefully at some point, that wonderful feeling of being "home."
BEHAVIOR ISSUES
Separation Anxiety & MoreOnce again, a new school year begins. Consequently, some parents are dealing with separation anxiety issues with their children. And, with busier school and activity schedules, it’s also the time when pet parents may begin to notice separation anxiety symptoms in their companion animals, too.
The most common definition of separation anxiety is that when left alone, your pet exhibits destructive behaviors. There are differences of opinion among pet professionals regarding the diagnosis and treatment of this complex behavioral issue, but all are trying to achieve the same result – the reduction and/or elimination of these destructive and harmful behaviors. The information presented here is intended to help you identify whether your companion animal might be suffering from your absence, and to provide some idea of available treatment options.
Although more common in canines, separation anxiety can be exhibited in both dogs and cats. In dogs, the destructive behaviors can include: constant barking; destroying furniture; chewing doors or the walls; ripping apart books; urinating and/or defecating in the house; and self-abuse (like chewing their paws raw). In cats, separation anxiety manifests itself in any of the following ways: indoor spraying; urinating or defecating in closets or on clothes; refusing to eat or drink; and hiding from you when you are at home.
Professionals attribute separation anxiety to a wide array of internal or external causes, or a combination of both. External causes range from changes in the environment, a lack of exercise or stimulation, and changes in behavior of the pet parents. Internal causes can include illness, persistent pain, nervousness, being in season and negative physiological changes due to poor diet.
To determine whether your companion animal might be suffering from separation anxiety, ask yourself these questions:
• Does your pet exhibit unusual behavior when you are getting ready to leave the home?
• Does the destructive behavior occur only when you are not at home?
• Does your pet greet you frantically, following closely wherever you go when you are home?
If all of these are true for your pet, you could be dealing with separation anxiety.
Once you have established that your companion might be experiencing separation anxiety, it’s critical that you are aware of the following:
• Do not punish your pet when you arrive home and discover the damage – this will only aggravate the problem.
• Do not bring another pet into your home. Introducing another being at this time will only add additional stress. Although it seems logical (i.e., your anxious pet will now have a companion), the separation anxiety is due to your absence.
• Do not make a big production out of leaving or entering your home. There is strong support for a relationship between your displays of heightened emotion at these times and the destructive behavior of your companion animal.
There are numerous training techniques that can help you deal with this pressing issue. These usually incorporate desensitization strategies as well as changes in your own behavior. We advise consulting a professional trainer or animal behaviorist for the best way to deal with your unique situation.
As with all training, affecting behavioral changes takes time. Here are some short-term solutions that can help to alleviate these symptoms while you are away from home.
• Have a friend or relative care for your pet.
• Place your pet in a day care facility.
• Bring your pet to work.
If none of these options are available to you, there are other stress reducers you can try on your own. When leaving your home, give your dog a toy (be sure it’s one that’s safe for him or her to have without supervision) like a treat ball – this will keep your dog occupied and provide a source of pleasure and gratification that your dog will learn to associate with your absence. For cats, make sure they have unobstructed views through windows, use a water fountain, play soft music or a DVD with birds and butterflies to engage their attention. For both dogs and cats, try leaving a pillowcase or a recently-worn article of clothing in an area where they commonly stay – just the smell of you may bring them some comfort.
The time you spend now addressing this issue could save you and your companion animal grief and distress in the future. If you suspect that your companion animal is experiencing separation anxiety, we strongly recommend you speak with your vet and a trainer with whom you feel comfortable. With patience, persistence and a lot of love, you can help your pet overcome this syndrome.
Source:
This article was taken from the Healthy Pet Newsletter, a free monthly email newsletter.
ADDING A PET TO YOUR HOME?
Cat or Kitten - Which Is Best For You
There are few things more adorable than a kitten. Kittens are entertaining and full of fun, but like a puppy, they will have more needs for attention and supervision than adult cats. As a kitten learns about the world by playing, your curtains, couch and flower arrangements can become sacrificed in the process. An adult cat can settle in faster, and choose to nap in front of the window instead of climbing the window draperies. If you're trying to decide which way to go when you adopt your next feline, read more in this article: www.sspca.org/KittenCat.html
Dogs Are A Big Loveable Responsibility
Since dogs have a life span of 12-14 years, a little planning will prevent your dog from being one of the 4 million dogs entering animals shelters next year. There's a lot of information being written about the benefit of pets in the home, but before you make that addition to the family, take the time to read about what's involved in owning a dog. They are a big responsibility and knowing how to be a responsible pet owner is your first step to truly being able to enjoy your new addition. Visit this website for a great article and list of resources too: www.thedogsbestfriend.com/yournextpurchase.htm
PET NATURAL HEALTH SUCCESS STORIESCystitis
"I awoke to find our cat leaving bloody drops of urine every where. I began JP-X hourly through that day until she was going freely without blood. The next day she slept a lot as usual which was a great change compared to frequent runs to the litter box. I gave her 1-2x/day for a week. No antibiotics! How wonderful! After having another cat that had recurring cystitis, this is a miracle for our family!" W.D.
Constipation
"My cat was having small bowel movements and they were tan or clay colored. It concerned me because she seemed to look like she was gaining weight and I wondered if she had a lot of "backup" in the intestinal system. I read the information about what stools tell you to determine what the problem was and began using LIV-J since it indicated a bile and liver problem. She is also a very nervous cat, so I thought I had better feed her nervous system with the STRESS-J to tackle the problem from both angles and to get her feeling a little less stressed which definitely affects the health of an animal. LIV-J and STR-J were designed to be used together, so I thought it was a good program. I began adding it to her food when it arrived and it was like she knew she needed it. She gobbled it up and only a few days later I noticed her bowel movements changing. She's doing so much better and we really enjoy a more relaxed kitty. Thanks for the great info and products!" D.P.
Compulsive Chewing
"My dog has had a problem with compulsively chewing his back near his tail. I've tried several things and they don't seem to work for long. I saw Soothing Mist on Healthy Pet Corner's site and decided to give it a try. The herbs in it sounded very soothing and healing. I added some Tea Tree Oil because I like to deter fleas. I've used a spray of Lavender and Tea Tree to prevent fleas for years, but he always ran from me when I wanted to spray him. When I get the bottle of Soothing Mist, he comes to me and sits still, so I think he knows it's helping him. I've been using it on my cat that has skin issues also and it's been doing good." Robin
These herbal formulas and supplements can be found online at The Herbs Place. You can also find more success stories on the site.
FEATURED HEALTH PRODUCTSAdvanced Daily Supplement for Dogs
Bandit's Buddies is featuring this supplement which provides a broad spectrum of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, natural plant oils and green foods.
Read more about the product and find lots of great health info for pets at Bandit's Buddies.
FEATURED PET FOOD PRODUCTBonita Fish Flakes for Cats
These dried fish flakes will have your cat begging for more. Got something you need to get down the kitty in her food but it makes her turn her nose up at it? Sprinkle on some of these flakes and she'll dive in.
Nothing in these packages but 100% Shaved and Dried Bonita Fish Flakes. Order this Flint River Ranch product here.
This allergy formula for food-sensitive dogs has received rave reviews. No wheat, corn or chicken. This Flint River Ranch all-natural formula is oven baked under controlled temperatures to ensure a very nutritional and digestible product with added probotics, enzymes, vitamins and chelated minerals. Read the list of ingredients here.
Talking Dog
A guy is driving around Wadsworth, Ohio and he sees a sign in front of a house: "Talking Dog For Sale." He rings the bell and the owner tells him the dog is in the backyard.
The guy goes into the backyard and sees a Labrador retriever sitting there. "You talk?" he asks.
"Yep," the Lab replies.
"So, what's your story?"
The Lab looks up and says, "Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the government, so I told the CIA about my gift, and in no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping. I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running."
"But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn't getting any younger so I decided to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I'm just retired."
The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog.
"Ten dollars," the guy says.
"Ten dollars? This dog is amazing. Why on earth are you selling him so cheaply?"
"Because he's lying, he never did any of that stuff."
PET SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS
There are three ways toxic chemicals enter the body: by swallowing, by breathing, or by contact with the skin or eyes. An EPA report concluded that toxic chemicals in household cleaners are three times more likely to cause cancer than oudoor air pollution. In one study conducted over a 15-year period, women who worked at home had a 54% higher death rate from cancer than women who had jobs away from the home. The study concluded that the increased death rate was due to daily exposure to hazardous chemicals found in ordinary household products.
What is not being reported are the slow poisonings that occur in every home from continual exposure to household cleaning chemcials. Cancer, birth defects, heart disease, genetic changes - almost any symptom imaginable, both physical and psychological, has been associated with certain chemicals in common household products. At greatest risk are fetuses, children, the elderly, pets, and those who are already ill.
Microbest Safe Cleaning ProductsSunshine Concentrate Household Multi-Use Cleaner
PET FOODS
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Pet Foods
The baking process results in a greater degree of nutrient absorption. All natural ingredients include chicken, lamb, fish, whole grains of wheat, rice and millet, vitamins and chelated minerals along with flax seed and herbs for super nutrition. No by-products, chemical preservatives or anything artificial. Read testimonials about Flint River Ranch.
Read about the Flint River Ranch Difference and shop here.
Healthy Pet Foods & Supplements Formulated by Dr. Jane Bicks
Your pet depends on you to make the right choices when it comes to his or her health and happiness. HealthyPetNet is a family-owned company that wants the best for their pets and yours. That’s why they promise to provide veterinarian-formulated products that are inspired by nature and made using good science. Read more about or shop for Healthy Pet Net foods and supplements.
Learn More About Pet Food Ingredients
Diet is so important for our own health, so we know it's important for our pets. Many health issues directly link to diet and it definetly affects long-term health. Consider your pet's diet if you are having recurring health problems or if you want to know that your pet is getting the best your money can buy. Read more about what's in pet foods.
Nature's Sunshine Herbs and Supplements for People
Find a natural solution for yourself. Many pet owners do everything to keep their pet healthy, but neglect their own health. One reason to keep yourself healthy is because your pet needs you! Be sure you're taking supplements to stay healthy and avoid the expensive drug prices. Shop for Nature's Sunshine Products - 100% Guaranteed.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Poison Control Number: 800-548-2423
ASPCA Poison Control Number 888-426-4435
There may be a charge for these calls.
ADOPT A PET
Find the perfect pet for your family at PetFinder.com. You can search by breed, locality, age, size, gender, etc. It's so rewarding to take an animal who really needs a home.
FORWARD THIS TO A FRIEND
If you enjoyed what you read, please forward this newsletter to your pet-loving friends. If you are receiving this in email format, you can simply forward it. If you are on the blog site, forward by clicking on the white envelope below, or sending them the link to this site by email.
COPYRIGHT & REPRINT INFORMATION
© 2006 Healthy Pet Corner
The stories, suggestions, and information in this newsletter are not meant to diagnose or prescribe. If your pet has amedical problem, you may want the advice and recommendations of a veterinarian. All stories and information content that is passed along in this newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not necessarily endorsed by its editor, Donna L. Watkins, its sponsor, HealthyPetCorner.com, or its owner, Sunshine Life Center, Inc.
Forwarding and Use of This Newsletter
You may forward this to a friend and/or use this copyrighted newsletter on a website if you include the following credit:
Editor, Donna L. Watkins, of HealthyPetCorner.com, provides this free newsletter to subscribers. Healthy Pet Corner provides quality natural pet foods. Visit now to subscribe or shop: http://www.healthypetcorner.com

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