Pets Can Improve Your Mood:
For those who love animals, it’s virtually impossible to stay in a bad mood when a pair of loving puppy eyes meets yours, or when a super-soft cat rubs up against your hand. Research supports the mood-enhancing benefits of pets. A recent study found that men with AIDS were less likely to suffer from depression if they owned a pet. (According to one study, men with AIDS who did not own a pet were about three times more likely to report symptoms of depression than men who did not have AIDS. But men with AIDS who had pets were only about 50 percent more likely to report symptoms of depression, as compared to men in the study who did not have AIDS.)

Pets Control Blood Pressure Better Than Drugs:
Yes, it’s true. While ACE inhibiting drugs can generally reduce blood pressure, they aren’t as effective on controlling spikes in blood pressure due to stress and tension. However, in a recent study, groups of hypertensive New York stockbrokers who got dogs or cats were found to have lower blood pressure and heart rates than those who didn’t get pets. When they heard of the results, most of those in the non-pet group went out and got pets!

Pets Encourage You To Get Out And Exercise:
Whether we walk our dogs because they need it, or are more likely to enjoy a walk when we have companionship, dog owners do spend more time walking than non-pet owners, at least if we live in an urban setting. Because exercise is good for stress management and overall health, owning a dog can be credited with increasing these benefits.

Pets Can Help With Social Support:
When we’re out walking, having a dog with us can make us more approachable and give people a reason to stop and talk, thereby increasing the number of people we meet, giving us an opportunity to increase our network of friends and acquaintances, which also has great stress management benefits.

Pets Stave Off Loneliness and Provide Unconditional Love:
Pets can be there for you in ways that people can’t. They can offer love and companionship, and can also enjoy comfortable silences, keep secrets and are excellent snugglers. And they could be the best antidote to loneliness. In fact, research shows that nursing home residents reported less loneliness when visited by dogs than when they spent time with other people! All these benefits can reduce the amount of stress people experience in response to feelings of social isolation and lack of social support from people.

Pets Can Reduce Stress—Sometimes More Than People:
While we all know the power of talking about your problems with a good friend who’s also a good listener, recent research shows that spending time with a pet may be even better! Recent research shows that, when conducting a task that’s stressful, people actually experienced less stress when their pets were with them than when a supportive friend or even their spouse was present! (This may be partially due to the fact that pets don’t judge us; they just love us.)

It’s important to realize that owning a pet isn’t for everyone. Pets do come with additional work and responsibility, which can bring its own stress. However, for most people, the benefits of having a pet outweigh the drawbacks. Having a furry best friend can reduce stress in your life and bring you support when times get tough.

Sources:

Evenson RJ, Simon RW. Clarifying the Relationship Between Parenthood and Depression. Journal of Health and Social Behavior. December 2005.

Siegel JM, Angulo FJ, Detels R, Wesch J, Mullen A. AIDS diagnosis and depression in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study: the ameliorating impact of pet ownership. AIDS Care. April 1999.

Original post: http://stress.about.com/od/lowstresslifestyle/a/petsandstress.htm

Help for dogs with dry skin

Take these steps to take care of your dogs hair and skin:

- Bathe your dog as little as needed to keep its coat clean.
- Brush your dog often to remove dead hair and dander.
- If bathing is necessary, use a moisturizing shampoo made for dogs. Their pH is different from ours, so don’t be tempted to use a human shampoo- it is much to harsh   for their skin.
- Follow a bath when necessary with a moisturizing rinse made for dogs and their special needs.
- Don’t forget that healthy hair and skin comes from within. Use a good quality, name brand food and consult with a veterinarian about the addition of fatty acid supplements which can make for healthier, glossier hair.

Help for cats with dry skin

Dr. Crimi offers these suggestions for taking care of your cat’s hair in the winter:

- Comb your cat’s hair often to remove dander and loose hair.
- Don’t bathe your cat unless you need to clean the hair coat of grease, oil,or dirt. Remember cats give themselves baths everyday.
- Use a conditioning rinse after your cat’s bath. Don’t use oils and lotions that are designed for people. “You’ll find they will just gum up the cat’s hair and attract a lot of dirt,” says Dr. Crimi.
- Feed quality, name brand foods to provide adequate nutrition for glossy, healthy hair.
- Consult with your veterinarian about increasing fatty acids and vitamins in your cat’s diet.

Warning signs that your pet has more than dry skin

Pets scratch for many reasons, including allergies, parasites, or infection. All of these conditions may appear to be “dry skin” to the pet owner, but they actually require treatment by a veterinarian. Attempting home remedies may only complicate the problem or delay treatment. According to Dr. Crimi, you can’t “assume that chewing and licking to the point of hair loss is from nerves. It usually isn’t.”

Plus, Dr. Crimi warns that often skin problems and poor hair quality in pets are merely symptoms of something else such as kidney, liver, adrenal or thyroid gland problems.

If you notice any of these conditions or if the initial skin problem persists for more than a week, consult with your veterinarian for treatment.

- Skin irritation, including redness, bumps, and rashes.
- Open sores of any kind.
- Excessive hair loss, either in concentrated patches or all over.
- Dull, dry hair that pulls out easily.
- Constant foot licking or face rubbing (with or without runny eyes or itchy ears).

Original post: http://www.healthypet.com/PetCare/PetCareArticle.aspx?title=Dry_Skin

Note: All content provided on HealthyPet.com, is meant for educational purposes only on health care and medical issues that may affect pets and should never be used to replace professional veterinary care from a licensed veterinarian. This site and its services do not constitute the practice of any veterinary medical health care advice, diagnosis or treatment.

To help your pet reach and maintain an optimum level of health and well-being, consider Poly-MVA for Pets. Poly-MVA for Pets contains many nutrients crucial to maintaining not only proper nutrition and health, but also to maintaining general quality of life as your pet ages or faces a difficult disease or treatment. This supplement will help to eliminate the deficiencies and weaknesses that can contribute to the development of everyday health issues and serious illness. Learn more about Poly-MVa for Pets here.

Did you know that smoking in your home can kill your indoor pets? Dogs, cats and birds have shown to be affected. Research from Colorado State University has found that secondhand tobacco smoke has a clear effect on dogs and their chance of disease. One study shows that the more members of a household who smoke, the higher their dogs’ risk of developing certain kinds of cancer. It’s such a direct connection that dogs with long noses are at an even greater risk of developing certain nasal and sinus cancer, as they expose more tissue to the carcinogens when they inhale. Short and medium-nosed dogs are more susceptible to lung cancer, as the carcinogens more quickly pass the nose and settle in the lungs.

Likewise, a study done at Tufts College of Veterinary Medicine found that cats exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased chance of developing a type of oral cancer that smoker’s often fall victim to–squamous cell carcinoma. It is suspected that because of the grooming behavior of cats, they expose the mucous membranes of their mouth to the cancer-causing chemicals. Cats living with smokers are also twice as likely to develop malignant lymphoma, a cancer that occurs in the lymph nodes and that is fatal to three out of four cats within 12 months of developing it.

Anyone with a pet bird knows to avoid using Teflon-coated pans because of birds’ sensitive respiratory systems–so it’s no surprise that birds are also at risk for lung cancer, as well as pneumonia, from secondhand smoke.

Of the 5,000 chemicals identified in tobacco smoke, public health authorities have classified between 45 and 70 of those chemicals (including carcinogens, irritants and other toxins) as potentially causing the harmful effects of tobacco use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 126 million Americans who don’t smoke are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes, vehicles, workplaces, and public places. This exposure causes thousands of lung cancer and heart disease deaths among nonsmokers every year, according to the California Environmental Protection Agency. Now, we can add pets to this sad set of statistics.

Melissa Breyer is the Senior Editor for Healthy Living. She is a writer and editor with a background in sustainable living, specializing in food, science and design. She is the co-author of True Food (National Geographic) and has edited and written for regional and international books and periodicals, including The New York Times Magazine. Melissa lives in Brooklyn, NY.

Original post: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/secondhand-smoke-harms-pets.html

To provide nutritional support for those pets who may be at risk for compromised immune systems, consider Poly-MVA for Pets, a uniquely formulated combination of minerals, vitamins and amino acids designed to support cellular energy production and promote overall health in your pet. Read more about Poly-MVA for Pets here. 

An apple a day keeps the doctor away — unless you’re a dog or cat, in which case a crunchy Golden Delicious can prove poisonous! Lots of “people food” and pretty plants can have harmful, even fatal effects on our furry friends. Keep them safe with this checklist of natural toxins; you might be surprised at what you find.

FOODS
Apples: All the non-meat parts of an apple — the stem, leaves, and seeds — contain cyanide, which is poisonous to animals and humans.

Avocado: Avocadoes contain persin, a toxic fatty-acid derivative that can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory distress, fluid around the heart, and even death. All species — domesticated animals, cattle, even fish — are susceptible, so keep the guac well out of reach of your pets.

Baby food containing onion or garlic: Baby food is often recommended for ill felines; Layla Morgan Wilde, cat behavior guru and founder of the Annex Cat Rescue, notes that it’s “excellent for cats that have lost their appetite, but check the ingredient labels” first to make sure no onions lurk within.

Bread dough: Cindy Wenger, animal communicator, comments that “a little bit of bread dough can cause a big problem.” Why? “A dog’s stomach creates the perfect warm environment to allow bread dough to do what it does best, and that’s rise,” Wenger says. “Bread dough can quickly expand in a dog or cat’s stomach, causing it to distend beyond its capacity, cutting off its blood supply.” On top of that, fermenting yeast can produce ethanol; once that’s absorbed into the bloodstream, your pet may appear uncoordinated and disoriented. (Drunk, in other words. Not good.)

Chocolate: Large amounts cause stomach cramping and vomiting in dogs and cats. (Keep in mind too that, for a cat or small dog, a couple of mini Special Dark bars is a large amount relative to their size.)

Grapes/raisins: It’s unclear how many grapes or raisins your pet would need to eat to cause kidney failure — some sources think it could take as few as four — but why risk it?

Mushrooms: All kinds — not just the sketchy-looking ones in your back yard — are poisonous to dogs.

Nuts: Macadamias and walnuts contain a toxin that affects the digestive and nervous systems of dogs, and could cause seizures.

Onions: In raw or cooked form, onions — and their cousins, like chives and leeks — are toxic to cats and dogs. They contain thiosulphate, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and shortness of breath in pets. What’s worse, says pet expert Steven May of The Daily Growl, “Typically the symptoms won’t show up for a day or two.” May recommends taking your pet to the vet right away if you think she’s eaten onions; better safe than sorry.

Sugar-free gum and mints: Sugar-free snacks and candy sometimes contain Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s the enemy of your dog’s liver.

Shine Pets: Keep track of these toxins and more with a handy infographic

PLANTS
Aloe: A wonderful topical treatment for humans, it’s bad for cats and dogs.

Baby’s breath: Also poisonous to cats and dogs. Keep bouquets out of pets’ reach, or just pull this “filler flower” altogether before putting flowers in a vase.

Bulbs: Including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

Carnations.

Chamomile: Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

Grass: “But my dog/cat eats grass all the time! It’s what dogs/cats do!” And usually it’s fine — unless, says Wilde, “it’s sprayed with pesticides.” Natural grass is okay, she says. But if you don’t know what the lawn guy put on the grass, don’t let your pets nibble it.

Hyacinths: Not just the bulbs; the rest of the plant is poisonous as well.

Hydrangea.

Lilies: Bruce Silverman, VMD of Chicago, IL deems lilies “probably the most common natural toxin I see ingested by cats.” Lilies “are toxic to a cat’s kidneys after a cat licks or chews on any part of the plant or flower,” Silverman says, and the cat will need IV fluids and other professional care “to try to get the kidneys back into healthy condition.”

Poinsettias: Now that the holidays are over, poinsettias pose less of a danger, but some folks do replant them outdoors.

OTHER OUTDOOR AGENTS
Insects: Often harmless, but Dr. Silverman relates a funny story about dogs and cicadas: “A few years ago half the dogs in the Chicago metro area went crazy scarfing down cicadas during their 13-year-cycle. Between the diarrhea and vomiting, and the twisted ankles from all the dogs jumping into the air to catch the cicadas mid-flight, the veterinary community had its hands full.” The occasional moth shouldn’t be a problem, but if your pet is snacking on a pile of bugs — or you live in an area with poisonous spiders — keep an eye on any bug snacking.

Rock salt: De-icing salt can cause burning and cracking to paws. If it gets stuck between your pet’s toes and he licks his feet to work it loose, it could irritate his stomach. If your pets go outdoors (and cats generally shouldn’t), add a quick paw rinse to your wintertime post-walk routine, and check the animal’s feet to make sure uncomfortable boluses of salt or dirt haven’t gotten trapped.

COFFEE, BOOZE, AND CIGARETTES
Alcohol: “Some people think it’s cute or funny for a pet to drink, i.e. a beer, not realizing alcohol is toxic to both cats and dogs,” Wilde says.

Caffeine: Could cause collapse and seizures, among other symptoms, in pets.

Nicotine: Smoking kills — secondhand smoke is bad for pets, too — and nicotine in any form, whether cigarettes, patches, or gum, can cause heart and respiratory failure in pets.

MEDICINES
Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, prescription drugs, and medications intended for use by humans should never be given to pets. Topical preparations for humans — sunscreen; bug repellent; rubbing alcohol, e.g. — should also be kept well out of their reach.

And drugs and medicines that are intended for your furry friends should be administered as directed. Do not borrow prescriptions from friends, or freelance the dosage; do as your vet advises, and if you aren’t sure how to give a medication, call and ask.

SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR
Excessive thirst
Lethargy
Panting or shallow breathing
Seizures
Vomiting/diarrhea

If your pet doesn’t display these symptoms, but you saw the cat nibbling a daffodil or the dog is behaving oddly after digging in the trash, don’t take chances. Call your vet, an emergency-care clinic, or an animal poison-control hotline (here’s the ASPCA’s) right away.

Original post: http://shine.yahoo.com/pets/keep-your-pets-safe-from-harmful-natural-toxins.html 

In this article I shall describe five common cancers found in dogs, including some of the symptoms of these cancers. (And toward the end of the article, you’ll find research and information on the role Poly-MVA for Pets may play in integrative cancer protocols.)

The prognosis for the cancers I mention is not particularly good; the figures are broad generalizations, but they do highlight how important it is to detect and treat cancer as early as possible to give your dog every chance of a successful recovery or good remission prospects.

Cancer can be divided into two broad categories, defined below.

1. Carcinomas – These are malignant growths made up of epithelial cells (these are the cells that cover the lining of any body surface – such as skin, bladder and blood vessels) that pass into the surrounding tissues and give rise to metastases (the spread of cancer cells).
2. Sarcomas – These are malignant tumors that originate from connective tissue (such as bone, cartilage, muscle, blood vessels and lymph tissue). There is usually a prefix that describes the tissue of origin, for example, osteosarcoma is cancer of the bone.

Here is a list of five of the most common forms of cancer in dogs, and their symptoms:

1. Lymphosarcoma (Lymphoma)

This cancer is associated with your dog’s lymphoid system, which is an important part of his immune system. Lymphoid tissue is found in many parts of the body including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and skin. The most common form of lymphoma in dogs is the multricentric form that occurs in the lymph nodes.

A major symptom of lymph node cancer is swelling of the lymph nodes, and there are five major lymph nodes that you can feel on your dog. Speak with a very about locating these.

Other forms of lymphoma will show symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss and lack of appetite (gastrointestinal form), shortness of breath (chest form) and single or multiple lumps in the skin or in the mouth (skin [cutaneous] form).

Middle-aged to older dogs (aged approximately seven to ten years) are more prone to lymphoma, and no breed is particularly susceptible. This cancer can be very aggressive, and if left untreated the prognosis is a matter of weeks. With treatment, your dog’s life can be extended by several months to a year.

2. Hemangiosarcoma

This cancer originates from the cells that form your dog’s blood vessels. It can occur in any part of your dog’s body, but is mainly found in the spleen, liver, heart and skin.

The first sign of the cancer being present is usually a ruptured tumor, and because the tumor is formed from blood vessel cells, it is often full of blood.

If the tumor is in the liver or spleen, the ruptured tumor will cause anemia and weakness in your dog through the loss of blood. If the tumor is present in your dog’s skin, then a lump may be felt under the skin, and if it’s in the bones then a swelling of the bone may be felt.

Hemangiosarcomas usually occurs in older dogs, and some breeds seem to be predisposed to it – Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Portuguese Water Dogs and Skye Terriers.

The tumors aren’t usually detected until their late stages. In internal organs this is usually when the tumor has ruptured, and the prognosis is poor; less than 50% of dogs will survive more than 6 months. Survival rates are better when the cancer occurs in the skin because it can usually be detected and treated earlier.

3. Osteosarcoma

This is cancer that originates in your dog’s bones, more usually in the limbs but can occur in any part of the skeleton.

The symptoms include lameness, pain in the bones, swelling, and reluctance to exercise. Ninety percent of osteosarcomas spread to the lungs, and so your dog may show symptoms such as coughing and difficulty in breathing too.

Large dog breeds are more prone to osteosarcoma – Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Irish Wolfhounds in particular. Heavily built dogs such as Rottweilers, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Weimaraners, and Boxers are also at an increased risk.

Unfortunately this cancer is rarely detected before it has spread from the bones to other parts of the body. The prognosis is often poor; less than 50% of dogs will survive more than a year.

4. Mammary Carcinoma

Mammary tumors are the most common tumor in female dogs that haven’t been spayed – the risk of your dog developing this cancer is almost eliminated if she is spayed before her first season.

Provided the tumor is detected early enough, this cancer can usually be successfully treated. The symptoms are a solid mass or numerous swellings in the mammary glands; they tend to start off small and grow quickly grow in size.

As the cancer can spread to other parts of your dog’s body, any unusual swelling in the mammary glands should be investigated by your vet as soon as possible so that any malignant tumor can be treated.

5. Mastocytomas (Mast Cell Tumors)

Mast cells form part of the body’s tissue and play a role in the body’s immune system. Mastocytomas are most commonly seen in the skin, and can spread to the lymph nodes, spleen, liver and bone marrow. Not a great deal is known about this form of cancer – because it does not occur in humans, less research has been undertaken.

Symptoms include raised masses on or under the skin – single or multiple lumps, which may be smooth, bumpy or ulcerated. Your dog may also show a lack of appetite, vomiting and abdominal pain.

These tumors usually occur in older dogs. The prognosis depends upon how far advanced the cancer is; broadly, if the tumor is on your dog’s limbs then he has a better prognosis than if the tumor is in the nail bed, genital areas and mouth. Mast cell tumors in the internal organs usually have a poor prognosis.

In conclusion, there are many forms of cancer, and each is a disease in its own right which has its own specific treatment and prognosis. Inform yourself about these and other canine health risks but doing your own research (online, talking with other dog owners, etc) as well as talking with your veterinarian about your specific pet’s needs and potential issues.

How Poly-MVA May Help Support Your Pet

Palladium Lipoic Acid Complex (referred to as PdLA and available in supplement form as Poly-MVA and Poly-MVA for Pets) has shown a remarkable history in research for supporting various types and levels of cancer patients because it targets basic cellular functions that support the body and healthy cells. That research is detailed below, and notable is the fact that a majority of the most common canine cancers have seen positive results when PdLA is a part of an integrative cancer protocol:

• The largest clinical integrative cancer investigation of PdLA was a veterinary oncology program, with over 900 dogs enrolled since its inception in January 2004. Patients received the PdLA supplement as part of their chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgical protocol. The PdLA seemed most effective in the cases of solid tumors (i.e. soft tissue sarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, mast cell, transition cell carcinoma, lung, anal sac carcinoma, renal carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, fibrosarcoma, melanoma, menigioma, neuroblastoma, mammary adenocarcinoma). Some of the most effective findings were apparent in the osteosarcoma patients. (Notable is that the cause/origin of osteosarcoma in large dogs is considered identical to the disease progression in humans.) In this study, integrative PdLA support (PdLA + amputation) improved the animals’ median survival time 62% (103 days more) compared to surgery alone. When the PdLA supplement was added to the chemotherapeutic regimen, the dogs exhibited a 27% longer median survival (79 days more).

• A leading veterinary oncologist used PdLA in his practice and concluded that following PdLA complementary support, chemotherapeutic animals demonstrated improvements in various objective parameters (i.e. weight, anemia, liver and kidney function).

• In addition to the above enhanced clinical parameters, a subjective owner Quality of Life Survey resulted in an 86% improvement following the addition of PdLA adjunctive support.

To learn more about the benefits of Poly-MVA for Pets, as well as pet owner and veterinarian testimonials, please visit our website at www.polymvaforpets.com or give us a call at 866-POLY-MVA.

One major difference between the dog’s aging and a human’s aging process is that of course the canine life-span is significantly shorter, with the medium to large breeds living between eleven and fourteen years and the smaller dog breeds living even longer. You may have heard that one human life-year is equivalent to 7 dog years; this isn’t quite correct as dogs reach adulthood in the first two years of life. So the calculation is slightly different: the first two years of a dog’s life are near equivalent to 10.5 human years (each year) and then after the first two years of a dog’s life the near equivalent is that one human year is like 4 years for the dog.

You can tell when a dog is entering ‘old age’ by noticing some behavioral and health changes, and it’s important that the pet owner takes a pet into their home knowing that they will need to offer close attention to them for more than a decade so as to ensure they live as comfortably, healthy and happy as possible. Decreased interest in goings-on around the house or neighborhood is one of the first signs of aging, though it could also be that your dog is bored and not getting enough attention/change of scenery. Sleeping sounder and for longer periods of time is also an indicative quality of the aging canine, as is the observed difficulty getting up from said night’s sleep or nap.

As is the case in older humans, stiffness and aches need to be slowly worked out after a good rest. Making sure your dog gets ample exercise will help stave off this age-related stiffness. Temperature intolerance is also noted in aging dogs, where hot summer days or extremely cold winter days or nights when your pet used to run outside without flinching suddenly instill trepidation. Aging dogs are sensitive; however, they also can be non-sensitive too in the fact that loss of eyesight and hearing can make them appear disinterested and unaffected. Loss of these two senses is very common in aging dogs!

You will also notice changes in the fur coat of your aging dog, as just like human’s whose skin loses collagen with age the same affliction occurs in the canine and thus affects their ability to produce and maintain a healthy coat. With age all body systems deteriorate, in dogs you will see symptoms of the bladder and/or kidneys ceasing to function as well as other signs indicative of liver and heart-health decline. Immune system health also deteriorates with age, though ensuring that your dog had proper nutrition in the first few days (yes, days) of life can impact the rate at which their immune system breaks down in old age.

Supplements may be given to improve their collagen, either topically or to be mixed in their food i.e. flax seed oil. There are also dog supplements available that can help maintain their eye health, as well as any other organ that naturally deteriorates with time. Dog supplements used in addition to their core pet diet are widely available and quite necessary to be chosen and catered to your dog’s specific health and breed needs. Proper nutrition can help stave off the health problems that inevitably come with old age, if only for a few years. Adding a few years to your dog’s life is like adding a decade in the human equivalent, and who wouldn’t want to keep their best friend / companion as healthy and at peak vitality for as long as possible?

Editor’s Note: For this and many other reasons, a powerful supplement to consider is Poly-MVA for Pets. This unique supplement not only protects and maintains your pet’s health, but it will also support and supply energy as your family friend gets older. Help your pet live a long and healthy life by keeping them protected and supported with Poly-MVA for Pets. Learn more here.

Original URL: http://www.whypetsupplements.com/dog-supplements/information-about-aging-dogs.html

Cold weather creates its own set of stress for all animals, but your pet needs your undivided attention now more than at almost any time of the year. Here are some winterizing tips for optimizing your animal’s comfort and well-being.

When the temperatures reach sub-zero, it’s time to give the outdoor cat and dog a break and invite them in, even if it’s in the garage. By “inside,” that doesn’t mean letting dogs and cats in and out of a warm house from night to day. Creating an abrupt temperature contrast can increase the risk of some infectious diseases. Consider housing them in the shelter of a well-built doghouse or bringing them into a tool shed or garage.

When you take your inside pooch out for “bathroom break,” stay out with them. If you’re cold enough to go inside, it probably is too cold for the pet to stay out much longer as well. When you bring a pet in, wipe its paws and underside, making certain there are no ice balls clinging between the toes or on the sole of the foot. They can cause frostbite to an animal that is left outside for a significant time in sub-zero temperatures.

If you opt not to bring the dog inside, make certain its shelter is clean, dry and well insulated with straw, wood shavings or a blanket. Animals drag a lot of moisture onto their bedding from every trip outside in snow. Plan on changing the bedding as frequently as necessary or simply placing it in the dryer for a warm-up. Equally critical, position the opening, which should have a door flap, away from the direction in which snow and wind usually comes.

Outdoor cats will seek warmth and sometimes this includes near or on a car engine. This means that if they don’t move when you go out to start the engine the next time, they can be seriously injured or killed. Before starting the engine, rap on the hood a couple of times to chase them off from beneath the hood.

Pets that move about on sidewalks, driveways or streets run the risk of picking up rock salt, ice and other chemicals in their foot pads. Each time they are brought in, make certain to wipe all four feet thoroughly. There is a tendency for them to lick the salt off their feet, which can cause an inflammation of the digestive tract.

Keep an eye on your pet’s outside water. If it is not heated, it will need to be changed several times daily when temperatures dip far below freezing. Ice is not a substitute for clean water. Pet stores sell heated bowls, which can prevent water freezing.

For short-coated animals, you might want to put them in a protective sweater before taking them outside. They will become chilled quickly after leaving a 72-degree house and walking onto single-digit-temperature turf. Also realize, sweaters are not a substitute for shelter. They can get wet and actually remove more heat from an animal than they conserve.

Be particularly careful when escorting elderly, arthritic pets outside. They will become stiff and tender quickly and may find it difficult to move about in the snow or ice. Keep them tethered tightly to your side if the route to the yard is icy. A bad slip can cause a ruptured disc, broken leg or other major injury.

If you live near a pond or lake, don’t allow your pets to run loose without some thought on your part. They may head for thin ice and fall through if they are not familiar with icy ponds. It is very difficult for a pet to escape these situations and equally challenging for you to reach the site safely.

Nutrition is a particularly important concern. Outdoor pets require more calories in the winter to generate energy to ward off the cold. As a result, add 10 to 15 percent more to its daily diet to allow it to meet those needs. Another way to meet cold weather calorie requirements is by adding some fats to their regular ration. Be careful though, fats can lead to diarrhea and dehydration if too much is added. And make sure they’re getting their supplements, for increased energy as well as overall health!

Editor’s Note: With winter bringing increased travel and stress levels, pets need more protection and nutritional support than ever. Poly-MVA for Pets, with its antioxidant effects and superior nutritional support, is ideal for cellular protection and energy restoration. Click here to read more about Poly-MVA for Pets and how it has helped pet owners and veterinarians in supporting overall pet health.

Recently, the New York Times reported that the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, part of the National Institutes of Health, is looking to study whether or not animals can have a positive effect on sick children.

According to the article, dozens of volunteers regularly take their dogs to visit patients at Children’s Hospital of Orange County in Southern California because children being treated for serious illnesses often have the blues, anxiety, or depression. “The dogs brighten them up,” said Emily Grankowski, who oversees the pet therapy program at the hospital.

My dog, Beepo, certainly fit that bill! As a kid, my colon cancer ruled our family’s world. Doctor visits and trips to the hospital filled up our days, in addition to all the “normal” routine activities and responsibilities that a family of five has on a day-to-day basis. Clearly, there was no room for a dog in our lives. My parents had enough to take care of between one sick child, two healthy children, their jobs, and running a household.

Of course, I always wanted a dog. What kid doesn’t? I would continually ask, but the answer was always no. One day, my therapist convinced my parents that a dog would actually be one of the best forms of therapy for me. So my parents got me a pet – Beepo.

Beepo came with her own name, and I didn’t want to change it. She was a beagle, and I loved her. It was a real special treat to have this dog. We took to each other right away. She slept under my bed, became my company, and even went to therapy with me. My therapist used Beepo as a way to talk to me, too. Looking back now, although Beepo was the family pet, she was clearly my dog. Even now, I am amazed at how pets sense when you are sick, and they snuggle with you, provide comfort, and want your attention. Pets are simple, so they make life feel simple.

It’s natural for them to do so.

Here are a few things to consider when introducing a pet into your home as a part of therapy:

- It doesn’t matter what the pet is as long as the animal is of interest to your child. A goldfish may provide amazing comfort to one child while a cat or dog will for another. Determine what type of pet you child wants first, and don’t assume that it has to be something your child can pet or snuggle up with. If your child doesn’t want a dog, then getting one won’t provide the therapeutic benefits. There must be a connection for your child for the greatest benefits.

- Consider your routine and schedule before committing to a pet. The last thing you need is added stress in your life, so select a pet that will work with your day-to-day schedule. Think about what the pet will require for care and who will be responsible for that. The responsibility should be your child’s, but what is the backup plan to care for the pet when your child is having a rough day? Again, a furry (or not-so-furry) friend that is low maintenance might work best for your family.

- Kitten or cat? Puppy or dog? Of course, the smaller the furry friend the better, right? Yes and no. While it’s great to get a young kitten or puppy because early stages of the socialization period in their lives allows you to bond with the pet, there are a whole host of other responsibilities that come along with having a “newborn” or “baby” on your hands. However, adopting an older pet takes time, as well, because you need to find one with a suitable disposition to match with your family’s personality and traits. Don’t be quick to jump at the first free pet available. Do some homework and find the best match for your child and your family.

In my book, Everything’s Okay, I dedicate a chapter to Beepo. I still remember that nothing felt better than to be loved by my dog – it was unconditional, non-judgmental, and probably one of the best things my parents could have done for me.

About the Author
When Alesia Shute was diagnosed with cancer at the age of seven, her life was redirected as was that of her entire family. She would go on to survive six major surgeries that had never been tested on a child, several minor surgeries and countless hours of pain and months of hospitalization. Alesia had to grow up quickly and adjust to being sickly and different from others. As shared above, her beloved pet played a major role.

Everything’s Okay is her story of survival that details not only her recovery, but also her struggles through school, boys, marriage, and pregnancy, with some hilarious tales of life and family to boot. Contact Alesia directly at Alesia@EverythingsOkayBook.com

Article Source: http://www.bizymoms.com/expert-advice

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol made from a part of birch trees. This naturally occurring product is used as a sugar substitute in many sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and toothpastes.

According to the National Cancer Institue, sugar substitutes – also called artificial sweeteners – are substances that are used instead of sucrose (table sugar) to sweeten foods and beverages. Sugar substitutes are many times sweeter than table sugar, and therefore, smaller amounts are needed to create the same level of sweetness. Common brand names are Nutra-Sweet and Equal.

The Rise of Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs

The red flag is up for animal owners that xylitol can potentially cause serious and even life-threatening problems for pets. According the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the number of xylitol-related cases continues to rise.

Researchers Sharon Gwaltney-Brant and Eric Dunayer, along with staff at the poison unit of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Urbana, Illinois, have recently conducted a study on eight dogs treated for eating products containing xylitol. The study showed that each of the eight dogs became ill, and five died or had to be put down due to liver failure, possibly from ingesting xylitol.

According to Dr. Dunayer, dogs ingesting substantial amounts of items sweetened with xylitol could develop a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. “These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion of the product. Therefore, it is crucial that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately,” Dr. Dunayer said. He also said that there appears to be a strong link between xylitol ingestions and the development of liver failure in dogs. “With smaller concentrations of xylitol, the onset of clinical signs could be delayed as much as 12 hours after ingestion. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that even if your pet does not develop signs right away, it does not mean that problems won’t develop later on.”

Additionally, as was published in the December 2006 edition of Veterinary Medicine, xylitol – once thought to cause only hypoglycemia in dogs – has recently been discovered to also produce acute, possibly life-threatening liver disease and coagulopathy. And the number of reported exposures to xylitol has been increasing.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center strongly urges pet owners to be especially diligent in keeping candy, gum, baked goods or other foods containing xylitol out of the reach of pets. As with any potentially toxic substance, should accidental exposures occur, it is important to contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for immediate assistance.

The bottom line: keep products containing xylitol away from pets! Feed your pets only healthy snacks, and be sure to research appropriate foods for your specific animal (talking to your veterinarian is a great place to start).

Editor’s Note: As part of an overall approach to pet health and well-being – including providing your loved one with a healthy diet, adequate exercise, and monitoring his mental health – Poly-MVA for Pets can give your pet superior antioxidant and nutrition support while providing cellular protection. Learn more about Poly-MVA for Pets now.

Heart Health
Yes, your dog loves you, and he lets you know every time you’re away for more than five minutes. However, research shows that owning a dog has more than just an emotional effect on your heart. Dog owners are much less prone to suffer from heart and circulatory problems. Also, studies show that those who have suffered from severe heart attacks have a significantly lower chance of experiencing a repeated heart attack after bringing a new canine companion into their lives.

Exercising and Your Dog
Staying physically fit in a busy world can be tough, but having a four-legged friend makes it easier for us to use the two we have. Whether you take your dog to the park for a rousing game of catch, walk him around the block a few times every morning before you go to work, or have him as your best running partner, you’re burning calories and staying fit. Your heart is pumping, your bones are moving, and your muscles are working. Who knew your pup could be your personal trainer?

Fighting Allergies
We all know someone who can barely step outside during allergy season, much less be around any kind of animal. Chances are they never grew up with pets in the home. Research shows that having a dog in a home with small children introduces them to dander and other common allergens early in life and potentially desensitizes them to these allergies as they grow.

Stress Relief
Stress can be dangerous. It can increase blood pressure, slow digestion, cause anxiety and trigger depression, just to name a few. Recent studies have shown that spending time with your dog during stressful situations promotes a more soothing and relaxing experience. The simple act of petting him can lower the heart rate. Also, the idea of coming home to a loyal and dependable companion who won’t judge you for having a bad day significantly reduces stress levels and fosters a calm disposition.

Social Interaction
Human interaction is very important to your health and well-being, and owning a dog can often make this easier and more comfortable than, say, a blind date. Dogs are excellent conversation starters and can provide a buffer between two strangers. Most dogs also have excellent intuition about their surroundings, detecting safe and dangerous situations and potentially saving you from an uncomfortable encounter.

Your dog will love you unconditionally and provide you with a loyal companionship like no other. And best of all, even though he may not have a “Dr.” title, he can also help you live a healthier and happier life.

Along with a healthy diet, adequate exercise, and monitoring mental health, supplementation can be an effective approach toward your overall health and well-being goals. With Poly-MVA, you and your pet can get the same great antioxidant and cellular protection benefits, providing needed nutritional support and enhancing both you and your pet’s quality of life. Follow the links for more information on Poly-MVA (for humans) and Poly-MVA for Pets.