Natural Pet News

Making Things Easier

2008-09-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

There will be no more posts to this blog.

Enjoy the archives.

I recommend Healthy Pet News.
View a sample issue.

Visit my new website for pet information:

The Nature In Us

Natural Pet News - September 2007

2007-09-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM DONNA & SQUEEK

This will be the last issue of this newsletter for a period of time.

Squeek has been very jealous of the time I spend at work so I have decided to take a sabbatical to focus on the health challenge I have with rheumatoid arthritis. Squeek tells me my program will include 3 hours a day of time with her. :-)

Seriously, many of you are on other newsletters I do and already know that I will be taking some time to focus on beating this disease. I don't seem to be able to manage my work time wisely. I love working and I'm very task-oriented, so I'm a do-it-now person.

My sweet hubby, Randal, has encouraged me for five years to do this but it's been hard to let go. I've finally "seen the Light" as they say and will choose wisdom rather than follow the easy road of doing what I've always done. Taking care of me hasn't been a big priority so that needs to change for a season.

I have a personal blog set up that I will be posting to on my favorite topics of pets, natural health, wildlife, etc. and will add you to that mailing list. Each issue will have an unsubscribe link at the bottom and a reply-to address just as this has. I hope you'll continue to join me on this journey of life.

If you're not on Dr. Jane Bicks' free monthly pet newsletter, it's even better than this. I've promoted it before. There are great articles and important information. View a sample issue here and/or subscribe now.

Thanks to Jennifer Fry for mentioning other foods that pets can't have after I mentioned a few in the last issue. The ASPCA site has has more detailed information on what NOT to feed your pets. Visit the ASPCA site and click on Animal Poison Control.

FEATURED PET PRODUCT

Agility for Dogs & Cats

Agility is a natural, holistic multi-action joint support supplement containing scientifically tested ingredients with these benefits:

• Maintain healthy joint cartilage.
• Maintain healthy connective tissue health.
• Maintain production of healthy synovial fluid.

Ingredients include MSM, Glucosamine, Alfalfa, Yucca, Boswellia, Omega 3's and 6's, and Sea Mussels. Read the success story below and get more info on Agility.

SUCCESS STORIES

Heartworms Gone Naturally

"Abby is my lovely, mixed-breed rescue. She tested positive for heartworms. The vet at the time was incredulous that I did not want the conventional treatment for her.

I found Bandit's Buddies website and a very insightful article about the hazards of treating heartworms with Ivermectin. That confirmed my decision to avoid it. I decided to try Bandit's heartworm program.

I am so thankful to those who believed in the healing power of nature. Robin's website provided the affirmation that I needed, actually finding out about other dogs who encountered heartworms and survived. These testimonies gave me courage!

Abby is now 9 years old and in very good condition. She had tested positive for heartworms for six years, but now is healthy and heartworm free! Read the full story (and other heartworm success stories) at Bandit's Buddies.com."

No Rehabilitation Therapy Required After ACL Surgery

"I want to give you an update on Joey, my baby standard poodle who tore his ACL and had surgery 8 weeks ago. Yesterday we went back to the veterinarian for X-rays and to hear the recommended rehab therapy before being able to turn Joey loose. The vet explained we were looking at the plate he had put in Joey’s knee and the joints and bones in his leg on the X-rays. He said that the knee had healed extremely well.

The doctor said “Turn him loose!” I felt like he was saying to turn us both loose since I had eating, sleeping and working with Joey and have been confined with him! I asked about the therapy Joey was supposed to have. The healing was better and faster than he had ever seen in all his years of practice and said that no therapy was required. We were to just go home, give him free run, and let him do whatever he wants.

Immediately after the surgery, Joey was on Rimadyl and that worried me because I know the dangers of Rimadyl, so along with the Rimadyl I gave Joey Agility (2 tablets a day) and SeaLogix Omega 3 Fish Oil (1 teaspoon a day). Joey weighs about 55 pounds. About a week later I stopped the Rimadyl. I’ve had surgery and usually a week afterwards, the initial pain has subsided. Within a week after getting him on the Agility and Fish Oil he was using his leg. A little weight on it, then a lot. He continued to use the leg, putting more weight on it over the weeks.

I can’t attribute his healing to anything else other than love (lots and lots of it), Agility and SeaLogix Fish Oil. The vet has done this operation many, many times over the years and Joey was the one that healed the fastest." J. Bishop

DOGS

Dog Rescued From Storm Drain After Four Days

You'll be in tears of joy by the time you finish this short video on a dog rescue. A missing 14 year old Dalmation was found in a storm drain two days after he disappeared and after two more days of digging with a backhoe they got him out. Grab a tissue and enjoy the video.

How To Teach A Dog To Play

Question: I recently adopted a dog from the shelter. He’s very loving, but he doesn’t know how to play. Is it possible to teach a dog to play and fetch a ball.

Answer: Dogs who have been kenneled most of their life or isolated from interaction with humans, often don’t understand the concept of play. Many dogs adopted from shelters have had to live on their own as strays and survival was the name of the game. Others were left tied up in backyards with minimal interactions with humans.

It’s not uncommon to adopt a dog from a shelter only to find they have no concept of how to play. It is, however, possible to teach them the joy of interacting with humans. Patience and time is what is needed.

Many dogs are indifferent to toys. You will need to find a toy that will really entice some interest. A rope toy or a floppy stuffed toy designed for dogs is a good place to start. You may want to make the toy tasty with a little chicken broth to help entice the dog to take the toy in his mouth. If he does take the toy, praise him. You may want to put this on command by saying “Take it” every time the dog puts his mouth on the toy, and really praise him each time.

Get down on the floor and play with the toy yourself. Show the dog how much fun you are having. So, you look a little silly, who cares? If the dog doesn’t show an interest in the toy, you’ve at least had a good time and probably brought a few smiles to those watching!

Note: Never leave a dog alone with a toy until you have determined how safe the toy is - a dog that ignores a toy when you are there may tear it up when you are gone and possibly ingest it.

Second-hand dogs often come with a lot of baggage from their past life. You must be patient and loving and let things come on the dog’s own timeline, not yours. Some of your expectations may have to change. The dog may never fetch a ball, but I’m sure he has other wonderful qualities that you can enjoy for years to come. Take time to celebrate every minor accomplishment in the dog’s life. Show this furry fellow how great humans are to be with, and one day he may surprise you by picking up that ball and dropping it in your lap - slobber and all!

Source: Center Hill School

Ask About Your Pet's Behavior Problem

Answer: The very first thing that comes to mind is a potential urinary tract infection (UTI). Any time an animal starts doing something out-of-the-blue, I like to eliminate health problems first. Get the cat to a vet and have her checked out. Often the stress of a new home can bring on a UTI.

Once you have eliminated that option, then it’s possible she’s peeing on your bed due to stress. People often mistakenly think that their animal is doing this out of spite. Animals, unlike people, don’t think in terms of revenge (thank goodness).

When an animal pees on a bed (and there are no physical ailments), it’s usually because the animal needs to relieve stress. The bed smells most like their human; it’s a place they go to relax; and urinating relieves stress.

You need to find out what the stress is. Your cat may be upset that you are leaving. A packed suitcase has come to mean being left alone for a longer period of time than just when you go to work. Just the process of packing can start the stress. You can help eliminate this kind of trigger by packing your bags at other times when you aren’t leaving. Pretty soon a packed suitcase doesn’t have a negative meaning for your cat, and it won’t trigger a stressful response.

Animals who suffer separation anxiety begin the stress cycle long before their human leaves the house. Everything the human does to get ready - showering, shaving, putting on a coat, picking up keys, builds anxiety in the animal. It’s important to desensitize the animals to these triggers - pick up your keys and put them back down when you aren’t going anywhere. Put your coat on and take it off again. The triggers suddenly don’t mean the same thing anymore.

Also be sure to leave your animal with something to do. Dogs often enjoy having a stuffed Kong or a BusterCube to work on when their human first leaves the house. This keeps them busy for the first 30 minutes - the time when most of the damage is done. Cats may enjoy a timed feeding dish where there are different treats that are available at different times throughout the day. Put a catnip toy in one of the dishes so when it pops open there’s something new to explore.

There is an article on the website (www.centerhillschool.com) that gives further ideas for helping animals with separation anxiety. Because this particular cat urinated on the bed when you were home, I’m leaning more towards the idea that this is a medical problem, so please be sure to take her to a veterinarian for an assessment.

Source: Center Hill School

Ask About Your Pet's Behavior Problem

Cheryl Falkenburry has traveled the world helping people make sense of mind-boggling animal behavior. Working with animal behaviorists in Tucson, Arizona and England, majoring in psychology, and becoming a certified parenting educator prepared Cheryl to teach both humans and animals. Get details on phone and email consultations.

HEALTHY PET CHOICES
(The Foods Have Never Been Recalled)

Healthy Pet Food, Treats, and Supplements
Video: What's In Your Pet's Food?
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Pet Foods & Treats
How To Feed Natural Foods
Non-Toxic Cleaning - Industrial Strength But Safe
Free Samples of Healthy Pet Net Food & Supplements

CUSTOMER COMMENTS

"I thought Katrina, our cat, was going to whistle dixie when she got the new food. I am sure I have not experienced that pause in eating, to have a look into my eyes to make sure I was watching her enjoy the grand meal. I also simply love the Immune & Body Support nuggets." Shirley

DISTRIBUTORSHIPS AVAILABLE

It's such a good feeling to earn an income helping pets. It's a lot of fun to help their owners also. Do you know other pet owners? Share the great news about healthy and safe pet products. These are the two opportunities we've been enjoying for many years:

Healthy Pet Net (For Pets, People and the Planet)
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Foods & Treats

ANOTHER NEWSLETTER OPTION

We recommend this complimentary monthly email pet newsletter which contains:
* Helpful Pet Information
* Interesting Stories
* Nutritional Advice
* Insight From Veterinarian, Dr. Jane Bicks

Register now to get the next issue or view a sample issue.

REFER OTHERS TO THIS BLOG FOR ARCHIVED ISSUES

If you enjoyed what you read, please forward this link to your pet-loving friends: www.healthypetcorner.com/NPNblog/petnews.html

COPYRIGHT & REPRINT INFORMATION
© 2001-2007 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.

USE OF THIS NEWSLETTER IN PRINT OR ONLINE

You may use this copyrighted newsletter on a website if you include the following credit with an active link:

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

Natural Pet News - August 2007

2007-08-10T15:10:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM DONNA & SQUEEK

Summer seems to be Squeek's favorite time. I already knew she didn't like winter. Although she's a feral kitty, that is now known as a "happy, health, Virginia house kitty," I know she's cold when she snuggles up to me in bed every night in winter.

But in summer .... she lives for the screened porch. We have a kitty door through the wall onto the porch and that's where her litter box is. In winter she makes short trips outside, but in summer we only see her when she's ready to eat and get brushies. She loves to be brushed, unlike some pets I know. If it's hot, she lies inside the porch door on her ruggie. The same one that was at the door 8 years ago when she first began eating at our home in Alabama.

It's summer and we hardly see her ... unless there's a rumble in the sky. Then she heads for Randal's nightstand in the bedroom. When we bought this furniture I deliberately chose it because it was raised off the ground and would give the kitties cubbies to hide in during storms. We didn't have to post a sign for Squeek. She knows exactly what it's for.

So, feeling ignored, Randal and I take off now and then for our own kind of enjoyment. A few weeks ago on a cool day in July we went to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. The photo journal includes waterfalls, wildflowers, an herb farm, grist mill, nature trail and more. View here.

ABOUT PETS

Summer Heat Can Be Deadly To Pets

Be informed about summer heat and cars and outside animals. Read these alert signals so you can know if your pet is having a problem. Knowing what to look for and the tips for summertime pets can mean life or death to your animal. Read it all here:
www.awla.org/summer-heat.shtml

No-No Foods For Pets

We've been told not to feed chocolate, coffee and alcohol to dogs and cats, but here's a few more items that are on the NO list of foods for pets:

Dogs: Avocados and macadamia nuts
Cats: Grapes and onions
Turtles: Spinach and rhubarb
Birds: Avocados and apple seeds

FEATURED PET PRODUCT

Trout and Sweet Potato (Fish and Chips)

This Flint River Ranch all-natural formula is oven-baked under carefully controlled conditions and temperatures. Added probotics, digestive enzymes, essential vitamins and chelated minerals result in better nutrition, palatability and digestibility.

The fish are purchased frozen with no additives and it remains frozen until the time of production and then Mixed Trocopherols are introduced. Fish and Chips contains no corn, wheat, and chicken. No by-products. No BHA, B14T or ethoxyquin. Omega Fatty Acids and Natural Tocopherols (Antioxidant) are added.

As you can see from the bag, Flint River Ranch gives you lots of information on their formulas right on the bag where you can find it. View ingredients and other information on Trout and Sweet Potato formula.

CUSTOMER COMMENTS - SUCCESS STORIES

Fatty Tumors Gone

"I have a sixteen year old Shelti mix with multiple fatty tumors. I began giving her Nature's Sunshine Noni capsules 2-3 two times a day. Her tumors are almost gone and her energy level has increased." CJ

Allergies Gone at Bichon Rescue

"I co-founded a Bichon rescue in San Diego and we put all our dogs on Flint River Ranch. It was great because we got so many that were abandoned due to allergies and the Trout and Sweet Potato cleared it up. They were highly adoptable after just 3 weeks! They can switch to the Lamb and Millet formula also, depending on the breed." Mena

Send in your pet's comments on our products and I'll be happy to post them in a future issue of this newsletter. If you send a photo I'll include that also.

ABOUT DOGS

Baby Panther Adopted and Nursed by Dog

A rejected baby panther in Serbia was adopted by a dog, who feeds the cub as if she were her own, licking and nursing the panther along with a litter of pups. Watch the video on this site:
www.goodnewsnetwork.org/content/view/2238/

Puppy Born With Heart-Shaped Mark

A chihuahua puppy has become Japan's latest heartthrob after he was born with a heart-shaped mark on his coat. The dog, named "Heart-kun," was born in May to a breeder and pet shop owner, who believes the puppy has brought her luck. She's even won the lottery. Read the story here:
www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSSP5208920070716

HERBS FOR PETS

Online Catalog by Health Topic
Pet Success Stories Using Natural Remedies
Natural Heartworm Programs

ABOUT CATS

Cat Senses Final Hours of Elderly Patients

Here's a wonderful story about Oscar, a cat that snuggles up beside residents of a nursing home four hours before they die. It's happened so often that nurses now know to call family members to let them know their loved ones are near death. Read the story here:
www.projo.com/news/content/death_cat_07-26-07_7O6GOJL.34bbc90.html

Dog Nurses Kitten Found Under SUV Hood

Ever since a stray kitten was found under the hood of a moving SUV in Texas and brought home, it has been nursing from a 3-year-old dachshund named Lillie. Read the story and see photos at ABC news:
abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=3360384&CMP=OTC-RSSFeeds0312

HEALTHY PET CHOICES
(The Foods Have Never Been Recalled)

Healthy Pet Food, Treats, and Supplements
Video: What's In Your Pet's Food?
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Pet Foods & Treats
How To Feed Natural Foods
Non-Toxic Cleaning - Industrial Strength But Safe
Free Samples of Healthy Pet Net Food & Supplements

DISTRIBUTORSHIPS AVAILABLE

It's such a good feeling to earn an income helping pets. It's a lot of fun to help their owners also. Do you know other pet owners? Share the great news about healthy and safe pet products. These are the two opportunities we've been enjoying for many years:

Healthy Pet Net (For Pets, People and the Planet)
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Foods & Treats

BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING
From Center Hill School

Q: I’m sick and tired of people allowing their dogs to bark incessantly and animals that roam and poop in my yard - including cats. Is there anything I can do to get the neighbors to control their animals? I work hard to keep my animals under control, and it’s so inconsiderate that they don’t do the same.

A: Everyone has different ideas of how to take care of their animals. Some feel that dogs and cats should be free to roam like animals do in the wild in order to keep them happy. Some like to leave animals outside for a warning system if someone approaches.

Although, I can understand this thought process, it is difficult to keep animals safe when they are left to roam or kept outside all the time. They do not understand boundary lines unless they are taught and supervised.

There are wild animals, cars, and diseases that can harm animals who are allowed to roam. Dogs kept tied up or kept in a fence all day begin to bark at everything out of boredom, soon the barks are ignored taking away the effectiveness of a warning system. It is much more responsible to keep animals at home and supervised.

Cats should be kept indoors to keep them from catching serious diseases like Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). If people are concerned that their cat will not be happy indoors, they can build an enclosed cat run where cats can go outside in a safe environment.

As far as barking dogs, a bored dog is a loud dog. As much as I love animals, I don’t like to hear them barking incessantly either. It’s difficult to think or sleep with all the noise. People should be considerate of their neighbors even if they live in a rural area. Some barking is to be expected. Dogs bark when they play, they bark when someone approaches, and they bark at deer running by. I personally like to have my dogs bark a little to warn me that something needs my attention. I also enjoy watching dogs happily playing and barking with joy. However, uncontrollable barking is annoying. Dogs should have an “off” switch to their barking - such as a “Quiet” or “Enough” command. Unfortunately when a dog is left outside all the time, there is no human there to give the command.

For those of you who have a barking Bowser next door, you may want to give your neighbor a gift basket with interactive toys for the dog (Kongs and Bustercubes) and a copy of my Barking Bowser article found on my website. (If you don’t have Internet access, call me and I’ll send you a copy.) This is a nice way to give a hint that perhaps they need to work on their barking issue.

If cats are relieving themselves in your garden, you can get some motion sensor sprayers (Sscat is one brand for cats) to put around and make your garden less attractive. Tin foil under the bushes also helps as cats don’t like to walk on the crunchy foil.

The bottom-line, though, is everyone should be responsible for their own animal. Even if you live in an area where there are no leash laws and barking dogs are exempt from noise ordinances, take the time to pay attention to what your animals are doing. Is it possible they are being a nuisance to someone else? Is there something you can do about it to be a good neighbor and a responsible animal guardian? When we make animals a part of our family and teach them to be responsible canine and feline community members, everyone is happy—the neighbors, the family, and most important - the animals.

Natural Pet News - July 2007

2007-07-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM DONNA & SQUEEK

The dog days of summer have hit Virginia, but Squeek seems to love them. Although she's a feral cat, she snuggles up with us when it's time to turn the heat down and go to bed, so I know she doesn't like the cold. Watching her lie outside in this heat makes me feel even hotter.

Our 4th of July was cool enough and we had a good time at Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's home) with the naturalization ceremony. If you're into gardens, history, architecture, or simply patriotic, view the 4th of July Photo Album. Sam Waterston (of Law and Order) was the speaker.

Maybe you'd rather see birds, wildlife and flowers of our place that we call Bluebird Cove. You can drop by virtually in our photo album, but if you're ever going to be in the Central Virginia area, let us know. We love getting to meet our customers and subscribers.

ABOUT PETS

HSUS Encourages Amazon.com Boycott

Rev. Deborah Baxter in Buffalo, NY writes: I thought you might be interested in this HSUS (Humane Society of the United States) campaign to stop Amazon.com's sales of illegal animal fighting materials.

Amazon sells both cockfighting magazines and bloody, graphic dog-fighting DVDs. The company is so determined to continue selling these materials that it filed a motion against The HSUS in federal court, essentially asking that federal and state laws to protect animals be gutted to accommodate Amazon's sales of animal fighting paraphernalia!

Please ask Amazon to remove these materials from its website. Here is a link for more information:
community.hsus.org/campaign/US_2007_amazon_fighting3

FEATURED PET PRODUCT

BioDeodorizer Spray eliminates odors on tile and grout pet accidents, carpet pet accidents, litter box, pet bedding, trash and garbage receptables, recycle bins, bathroom floors and fixtures, hampers, drain line odors and other soils.

32 oz. bottle and heavy duty sprayer for $14.25. Use your own spray bottle and get the 32 oz. refill for $11.95

ABOUT DOGS

Single Gene Determines Dog Size

In a recent article in the journal Science, researchers report the discovery of a genetic sequence that they believe is responsible for determining the size of a dog.

By studying the genetic differences between small and large breeds, researchers found that smaller breeds had a mutation in the sequence next to a gene known as IGF1. The hormone regulated by the IGF1 gene helps determine growth rates of mammals. The mutation found in smaller dogs like Chihuahuas prevents them from growing to be the size of Great Danes.

The study was comprehensive, investigating thousands of dogs comprising more than 140 breeds. Those involved in the study hope that this discovery will lead to advances in cancer treatment, which seeks to control or reverse unrestrained cell growth, as well as many of the nearly 300 diseases that canines and humans have in common.

Source: Healthy Pet Newsletter - May 2007

Dog Vaccines Need Not Be So Often
www.news.wisc.edu/8413

PET SUCCESS STORY

"Our cat, Juliet, had problems with digestion and bleeding from the anus. I began using Intestinal Soothe and Build to deal with it herbally. I sprinkle one capsule over her dry food every morning. She has had no bleeding and her little rear end looks very healthy (she used to have some slight redness there, but that has gone away). She seemed rather suspicious of the herbs at first but I think she has gotten to like them. As a matter of fact I think she is becoming a real herb lover. I brought home a fresh cutting of peppermint and Miss Juliet went wild for it. It was very cute." S.F.H.

HERBS FOR PETS

Online Catalog by Health Topic
Pet Success Stories Using Natural Remedies
Natural Heartworm Programs

ABOUT CATS

Cat Vaccines Can Lead to Cancer - Be Informed
catvaccines.misterlinks.com/

Taking the Pounce and Bite Out of Tigger

Many cats bite in play and others bite out of fear. It is your responsibility to teach the cat what is appropriate and inappropriate. The following suggestions may help with cats who like to use their teeth and claws. Please contact an animal behaviorist for help with an aggressive animal.

1) Spaying/Neutering: If the cat sharing your home is not spayed or neutered, you may want to consider starting with this. Spaying and neutering is not a cure-all, but many behaviors are driven by hormones which spaying and neutering help remove. Male cats are ruled by testosterone; the female cat ovulates frequently and stays in heat up to two or three weeks. The male cat courts with caterwauling catcalls as does the female in heat. Spaying and neutering will help take away some of the disturbances that normal mating instincts cause and the aggression that sometimes accompanies it.

2) Temptations: Avoid loose pants, flowing skirts, and loose shoe laces that will entice a cat to chase, bite and/or claw. Teach children not to run around animals.

3) Training: Yes, cats can be trained. Teach the cat to come by calling his name and giving him a treat when he comes to you. Many cats come when they hear the can opener; they too can learn to come when called. This will help you to control the cat in different situations. When you see the cat getting ready to pounce on Grandma as she shuffles by, you can interrupt the behavior by calling her to you. If you see the cat getting ready to pounce, interrupt her behavior with tin foil balls that you can have conveniently placed around the house. This way you will teach the cat to chase after more appropriate objects than the humans in the house.

4) Playing: Have kitty cat play sessions a few times a day. This will entertain the cat and make her more tired. Cats often follow the same sequence in play that they would use in a hunt. They stalk, pounce, kill, and eat their prey, so be sure to have play times fulfill all those needs. Often humans tire of the game and then leave a cat in a heighten state of arousal causing the cat to bite the nearest thing—the human they were playing with. If using a laser light to play, be sure to allow the cat plenty of time to chase the light, then throw a catnip mouse where the light is and allow the cat to play with the mouse. Put a morsel of food on the floor at the end of play to simulate eating the kill. If you are tired at the end of a busy day, all this can take place right from your armchair during commercial breaks if necessary, but usually the cat will be much more entertaining than the television!

5) Bite and Claw Inhibition in Play: Teach the cat appropriate use of claws and teeth by shouting “Ouch” every time a cat bites or claws hard during a play session. Get up and walk away. After a few minutes, call the cat to you and start the play session again. Soon the cat will realize that biting and scratching hard ends fun games and the cat will learn to modify her behavior in order to keep the game going. Use the phrase “No claws” and “Stop biting” so the cat learns to associate this phrase with the action. Then if the cat jumps on your lap and begins to knead excessively, you can use the phrase “No claws” to get the cat to stop without having to reprimand the cat and remove her from your lap. If the cat is an affectionate nibbler, you can say “Stop biting” before the nibbles begin to hurt so you don’t have to reprimand the cat for what she thinks is affection.

6) Rule Making: Set limits in the household. Cats pounce, bite, and scratch in the middle of the night if they are allowed to. Decide what the rules are and enforce them. If you don’t want the cat pouncing on your feet in the middle of the night, then teach him to get off with a hiss and a quick squirt of water. Don’t get up and play with the cat thinking he is lonely. This only rewards the cat’s behavior and before you know it you will be getting up several times a night. Have quiet play toys for the cat. At night, put the cat in a separate room with lots of climbing apparatuses and toys.

7) Socialization and Handling: Cats who were not socialized early in life or those who experienced excessive or inappropriate reprimands or handing by humans often have a great fear of being near people. These cats need to be taught that having humans around can be quite rewarding. Please see the article entitled Socializing the Fearful Cat for more information on how to help build confidence in the fearful cat.

Ask About Your Pet's Behavior Problem

Cheryl Falkenburry has traveled the world helping people make sense of mind-boggling animal behavior. Working with animal behaviorists in Tucson, Arizona and England, majoring in psychology, and becoming a certified parenting educator prepared Cheryl to teach both humans and animals. Get details on phone and email consultations.

CUSTOMER COMMENTS

"We have a cleaning service, and one of our major customers is a B&B, called the Doghouse Resort in Jefferson, NC. Obviously a dog friendly environment. We've been using your [non-toxic cleaning] products for over 2 years now, and we love them, and most importantly the owners of the B&B love the results too! Thank you so much!"

Kevin Denny
President, Mountain Maids, Inc.

HEALTHY PET CHOICES
(The Foods Have Never Been Recalled)

Healthy Pet Food, Treats, and Supplements
Video: What's In Your Pet's Food?
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Pet Foods & Treats
How To Feed Natural Foods
Non-Toxic Cleaning - Industrial Strength But Safe
Free Samples of Healthy Pet Net Food & Supplements

DISTRIBUTORSHIPS AVAILABLE

It's such a good feeling to earn an income helping pets. It's a lot of fun to help their owners also. Do you know other pet owners? Share the great news about healthy and safe pet products. These are the two opportunities we've been enjoying for many years:

Healthy Pet Net (For Pets, People and the Planet)
Flint River Ranch Oven-Baked Foods & Treats

ANOTHER NEWSLETTER OPTION

We recommend this complimentary monthly email pet newsletter which contains:
* Helpful Pet Information
* Interesting Stories
* Nutritional Advice
* Insight From Veterinarian, Dr. Jane Bicks

Register now to get the next issue or view a sample issue.

FORWARD THIS TO A FRIEND

If you enjoyed what you read, please forward this newsletter to your pet-loving friends. Click on the envelope at the bottom of the post or use the forward option on your email program. Send them this link to the online version: http://www.healthypetcorner.com/NPNblog/petnews.html

COPYRIGHT & REPRINT INFORMATION
© 2001-2007 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.

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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

Natural Pet News - June 2007

2007-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you for sharing this newsletter with your other pet-loving friends. To keep it from being dumped into your Junk Mail folder due to it's length, add our mailing list address to your Address Book: newsletters@thefrugallife.com

A NOTE FROM DONNA

Our cat is well entertained since we live on wooded property and there are plenty of squirrels that delight in teasing her. This little one was only inches away from our dining room window where I have a feeder placed to keep the views interesting for Squeek, our indoor kitty.

One of my best friends, Robin Sockness, had to say goodbye to her dog last month and although he lived to be 17-1/2 years old ... it's never easy to let go. Many parts of Robin's life revolved around Bandit, especially when she began helping others with the natural heartworm program that had saved Bandit's life. Read more about Bandit and Robin below.

As many pet parents unfortunately already know, losing a companion animal is devastating. And yet, we don’t receive the kind of emotional support from some in our community like we might expect if we had lost a human family member -- especially from those who have never shared a special bond with a companion animal.

Losing a companion animal is losing a member of your family. Here's an article that provides tips to deal with the grief: www.healthypetnet.com/newsletter/may07/page2.asp?realname=10037649

NEW PET WEBSITE

Free Samples

All About Pets and People launched only a couple of days ago. The site offers free sample packs of food, treats and supplements for dogs and cats. If you're in the Dallas area, you might want to take advantage of their pet sitting and poop scooping services. Watch an online video about what's in your pet's food.

PET NEWS

Avoiding Pet Scams

If you have ever loved -- and then lost -- a pet, you know how devastating the experience can be. If you are then a victim of pet scams, the loss is even more devastating.

There are unscrupulous people who have found ways to capitalize on your lost pet situation in order to dupe you out of money. This article has a few of the ways this can happen:
www.scambusters.org/petscams.html

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease and Stress

As a pet parent, it’s important that you know about potential problem areas for your companion animals before they become serious.

Unfortunately, urinary tract problems are all too common in cats. Here are the warning signs of which you need to be aware:

• Frequent urination
• Urination in places other than the litter box
• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urination

There is evidence to suggest that stress can be one of the primary causes of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Stress can lead to the release of hormones that constrict the muscles of the lower urinary tract. Changes in the household routine, a new companion animal in the home, changes in weather and lack of attention can all lead to increased stress in cats. Be as in-tune with your cat as possible, and take steps to decrease or eliminate stressors in his or her life.

Cats evolved as desert animals, so they don’t have a strong instinctive drive to drink water. This can result in the accumulation of minerals in the kidneys and bladder, leading to the formation of crystals or stones. Using a continuous water fountain can attract the attention of cats, encouraging them to drink more. Using canned foods like Instinctive Choice that contain water from biological sources will help to increase the amount of fluid intake.

By taking preventative measures now, you may be able to prevent your cat from developing urinary health issues, helping him or her to live a longer, healthier life.

Source: This article was taken from the Healthy Pet Newsletter, a free monthly email newsletter.

Dogs Are Thinking

Dog owners have long maintained that their pooches have a lot more going on between their furry ears than scientists acknowledge. Now, new research is adding to the growing evidence that man's best friend thinks a lot more than many humans have believed. The provocative new experiment indicated that dogs can do something that previously only humans, including infants, have been shown capable of doing: decide how to imitate a behavior based on the specific circumstances in which the action takes place. Read entire article

CUSTOMER COMMENTS

"Leo and Linus LOVED the Immune and Body supplement as treats and the Life's Abundance cat food.

They both meowed at me until I placed the order for the autoship so they could be assured of getting the treats and food without fail!

We are hooked and we feel much safer than buying those unknown foods and treats out in the stores. Thank you very much."

Diane, Leo & Linus

BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING

Q: Our Chihuahua does not like having her nails clipped. She goes nuts the minute she sees the nail clippers and bites and growls at us when we try to clip her nails. Is there anything we can do to get her over her fear?

A: Nail clipping can be a pretty fearful process for animals. Many animals don’t like to be held tight and have someone touch their feet. If the nails are cut too short, the quick may be cut causing the animal pain and leading to even greater dislike of the process.

To help animals get over the fear of having their nails clipped, you need to start with some handling exercises. Get your animals used to be touched all over. If your animal is sensitive to touch (some cats get over-stimulated and lash out), just touch your animal a few times for the first few sessions. Slowly increase the amount of touching. Don’t just touch your animals on the back and head. Handle their feet, look in their ears, lift their lips and look at their teeth.

Get your animals used to all sorts of touching, looking, and holding. Start the process when an animal is young so they will think it’s natural to be touched all over. This will make vet visits and grooming much easier.

As far as a fear of nail clippers, start associating the clippers with good things. Put them next to her food dish as she eats. Show the clippers to her and give her a treat. Touch her nails with the clippers, but don’t cut them. Give her a treat.

Desensitizing a dog to any kind of fear takes time. This process cannot happen in just one day. Spread it out over a few weeks. If your animal is not ready to go on to the next step, take a few days extra. Don’t push too fast and always end on a positive note.

When you do get around to clipping the nails, only do one nail the first day. Give lots of praise and a treat. It may take over a week to get all her nails done at first, but a least they are getting clipped. Long nails can damage an animal’s foot. Eventually you will be able to clip more nails at a time. The idea is to leave things on a happy note.

Ask About Your Pet's Behavior Problem

Cheryl Falkenburry has traveled the world helping people make sense of mind-boggling animal behavior. Working with animal behaviorists in Tucson, Arizona and England, majoring in psychology, and becoming a certified parenting educator prepared Cheryl to teach both humans and animals.

Cheryl recognized that the concepts of positive parenting and loving leadership worked whether her clients were parents of human children or furry ones and applies her positive parenting skills to her animal training sessions. She has helped thousands of people develop new and exciting relationships with the animals who share their lives. Get details on phone and email consultations.

PET PRODUCT INFO

Life’s Abundance Offers Exceptional Nutrition

For nearly a decade, HealthyPetNet has attempted to educate the public that many of the mass produced pet foods currently manufactured use ingredients that you would never knowingly feed your cat or dog.

Life’s Abundance Premium Health Foods for Dogs and Cats are nutrient-dense and contain premium selections of the freshest possible ingredients. We use high-quality meat proteins, rather than by-products, corn, wheat, gluten or soy. You can be confident that you are providing your companion animal with the healthiest possible diets, because our products are completely free from chemical preservatives, sugars, artificial flavors and colors.

The Life’s Abundance diets are formulated to be highly digestible, so that the nutrients are more easily absorbed, and therefore convey more positive benefits. These premium foods contain a superior blend of vitamins, proteinated minerals, antioxidants and healthy bacteria cultures known to significantly improve the overall health of pets.

When you feed your cat or dog Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food, you’re providing the complete nutrition that your pets need, and the tastes they crave.

If you haven’t already, we encourage you take steps today to make a positive change in the life of your companion animals. Your cat or dog deserves nothing less than Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food.

For Dogs
For Cats

If you’re ready to start building your companion animal’s foundation of health, try Life’s Abundance today! Compare your food with Life's Abundance.

BANDIT SAID "GOODBYE"

Many of you know Bandit and his mom who works with pets who want a natural alternative to heartworm programs.

On May 23, Bandit said goodbye to this world. He lived 7-1/2 years instead of the 6 months that the vet gave him. The heartworm program not only took care of the heartworms but made him so much healthier and like a puppy again. This dog was a hero in every battle he fought and was the love of Robin's life long before she fell in love with her wonderful husband, Steve.

He is missed by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on as Robin continues to help other animals, as she promised Bandit she would do when he tested negative on his heartworm test after the program. Bandit continued to test negative at each annual checkup and Robin continued to help hundreds of animals each year not only with heartworm but other health issues. Bandit is still grinning and one day, we will all be together again.

His Journey's Just Begun
E. Brennenman

Don't think of him as gone away
His journey's just begun
Life holds so many facets
This earth is only one.
Just think of him as resting
From the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days and years.
Think how he must be wishing
That we could know today
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away.
And think of him as living
In the hearts of those he touched
For nothing loved is ever lost
And he was loved so much.

Read Robin's Tribute to Bandit. While you're on her site, read some of the wonderful success stories that happened because of Bandit and Robin's desire to help others.

HERBS FOR PETS

Herbs for Pets Online Catalog by Health Topic

Pet Success Stories Using Natural Remedies

Herbs and Supplements for Pet Owners
One reason to keep yourself healthy is because your pet needs you! Find a natural solution for yourself. Many pet owners do everything to keep their pet healthy, but neglect their own health. We use Nature's Sunshine Products.

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 Products
Sunshine Concentrate Household Multi-Use Cleaner

HEALTHY PET CORNER

This site provides links and resources for dogs, cats, birds, horses, rabbits and reptiles. You'll find links to basic care, health, safety, etc. Visit Healthy Pet Corner.

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COPYRIGHT & REPRINT INFORMATION
© 2007 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