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| | | From: Rene (Original Message) | Sent: 11/29/2005 6:08 PM |
"According to the World Health Organization, "Health is more than the absence of disease. Health is a state of optimal well-being." Optimal well-being is a concept of health that goes beyond the curing of illness to one of achieving wellness. Many of us have been brought up to believe that our health depends solely on the quality of the healthcare we receive. The truth is, your health is your responsibility. You are the only person who can make the lifestyle decisions that contribute to your well-being. You are the one who must take the steps to preserve your health and promote your wellness. Only you have the power to create wellness for yourself. Your power lies in the choices you make every day on your own behalf. Your behavior and the choices you make in your life affect your health. You can choose to do more of what's good for you and the world around you, and to do less of what is harmful. You can choose to learn more about your health and the variety of healthcare options available. All of us have incredible inner wisdom. As you gather information and experience, you will gain confidence in using your inner knowing to follow your path to wellness." The American Holistic Health Association Elimination of the symptom is NOT the same as elimination of the disease. The fastest way to restore wellness is to stop putting into the body the things that have caused the physical problem to develop in the first place, and then give the body the nutrients it needs to repair and rebuild itself. The holistic approach treats the whole person, ignites the body's internal healing force and stimulates the body's natural abilities to heal itself. Ignite your body's internal healing force Most modern maladies are caused by prolonged exposure to a combination of negative lifestyles and toxic environmental factors, including junk food and malnutrition, pesticides, antibiotics, microwaves, chemical pollution of food, water and air, lack of exercise and chronic stress. These factors are further aggravated by the failure of modern medicine to recognize them as agents of dis-"ease" and death and the consequent failure to take preventative measures against them. The same chemical companies that produce toxic chemicals also produce prescription drugs, veterinary medicines, a wide array of medical products. Families with toxin induced illnesses often spend large sums for drugs and medical treatment. This circle of profit is not conspiracy theory, but an easily provable fact. What you don't know can hurt you." Consumer Alert! - Raising Public Awareness
Animal Diseases and their Natural Care
A growing number of veterinarians state that processed pet food (kibbles and canned food) is the main cause of illness and premature death in the modern dog and cat. In December 1995, the British Journal of Small Animal Practice published a paper contending that processed pet food supresses the immune system and leads to liver, kidney, heart and other diseases. Dr. Kollath, of the Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, headed a study done on animals. When young animals were fed cooked and processed foods they initially appeared to be healthy. However, as the animals reached adulthood, they began to age more quickly than normal and also developed chronic degenerative disease symptoms. A control group of animals raised on raw foods aged less quickly and were free of degenerative disease. Michael Dym D.V.M. - "Over the past 40 years and 17 generations of dogs and, cats we are seeing tremendous increases in chronic ill health in our pets that was rare back in the early 1960's. Most of these illnesses revolve around breakdown in our pets' immune systems, and include chronic skin/ear allergies, digestive upset, thyroid/adrenal/pancreatic disorders, seizures, gum/ teeth problems, degenerative arthritis, kidney/liver failure, and cancer across all ages and breeds. We are also seeing a record number of behavioral and emotional disorders including alarming and unexplained fears/aggression, as well as difficulty focusing/training and paying attention. The analogy of these compared with escalating immune/behavioral diseases in children is quite disturbing. The two biggest factors in our pets' population health decline over these generations has been the severe overuse of multiple vaccines and nutrient poor and toxin filled commercial pet foods. We have also failed to address the underlying cause of disease by only suppressing symptoms with antibiotics, cortisone and related drugs, so the disease progresses and goes deeper. Homeopathy offers a viable alternative in truly curing pets and making their bodies healthier." William Pollak D.V.M. - "Recent studies have shown processed foods to be a factor in increasing numbers of pets suffering from cancer, arthritis, obesity, dental disease and heart disease. Dull or unhealthy coats are a common problem with cats and dogs and poor diet is usually the cause, according to many veterinarians and breeders. "Dogs, cats and other animals live for years on foods that come out of bags, cans and boxes. But do these foods promote health? If they did, our companion animals would enjoy long, happy lives free of arthritis, hip dysplasia, eye problems, ear problems, fleas and other parasites, gum disease, lick granulomas, thyroid imbalances, skin and coat problems, personality disorders, birth defects, breeding problems, diabetes, cancer and other major and minor illnesses." Charles E Loops DVM - "After 10 years of traditional veterinary practice I became tired of having no treatment for chronic disease, incurable conditions, and a plethora of allergic maladies which seem to plague all veterinary practices. I was frustrated with giving animals cortisone because I had no other solutions, or using antibiotics for infections which I knew were of viral origin. At this time I had some chronic health problems, which had been unresolvable allopathically, but they responded to treatment by homeopathy. It took some time but it worked.!" From Shirleys Wellness Cafe |
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 1/27/2006 8:30 PM |
Flatulence Preventer?
PetAlive Flatulence Preventer contains the following 100% natural ingredients: (Contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives) Pimpinella anisum (anise) has been used for centuries to treat digestive disorders and cramps. Anise helps to relieve gas and promote healthy digestion. Foeniculum vulgare: Like anise, this herb helps to relieve the symptoms of gas and bloating and also acts as a digestive aid. Fennel can help to prevent the 'rumbling stomach' syndrome and also relieves stiff, aching joints and helps to detox the system. Magnesium Phosphate C6 (Mag.Phos.) is a biochemic tissue salt which is very helpful for the relief of flatulence, heartburn, nausea and colic. Deficiency in the body can cause diarrhea, intestinal mal absorption, bowel and stomach cramps and even liver disease. Mag. Phos. is often prescribed for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Spastic Colon. Carbo veg C30 is a proven homeopathic remedy also recommended for flatulence and indigestion. It is known as a natural purifier for its ability to absorb gases and toxins in the body. It can be very effective for the animal that tends to suffer indigestion, sour belching, wind and bloating and is also an excellent antidote for fatigue. Nux Vom. C30 is a proven homeopathic remedy with a variety of uses and is often prescribed for digestive disorders, indigestion and either constipation or diarrhea. It is also an effective remedy for flatulence, abdominal cramping and bloating. Lactose (inactive ingredient) From: http://www.nativeremedies.com |
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 5/10/2006 12:41 AM |
When Pets Go Natural
You’d have thought she was a model coming straight from aphotographer’s studio. “Strike a pose,�?Dan Mullaney would tell Tiffany, and she’d move into position for the camera, ready for the perfect photo. “There was no doubt she knew exactly what she was doing,�?Mullaney says. Tiffany Louise, a most precocious sable Pomeranian, was quite the little lady.
So when Tiffany’s fur started falling out in 2002 and she began having seizures, Mullaney and his wife, Teri, launched a desperate crusade to help their beloved pet. Her doctor, a respected conventional veterinarian, ran tests and diagnosed Tiffany with liver failure. Her prognosis: two months to live. The vet suggested that the Mullaneys give their dog milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and a commonly prescribed pharmaceutical drug, which the Mullaneys quickly had to drop because it made Tiffany even sicker. Unwilling to accept the finality of their vet’s report, the Mullaneys sought a second opinion. Their search led them to Shawn Messonnier, DVM, a holistic veterinarian near their home in Plano, Texas. Based on details in Tiffany’s blood work, Messonnier, author of the Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats (Prima Publishing, 2001), arrived at a different diagnosis: Cushing’s disease, a glandular disorder that causes the overproduction of the hormone cortisol and, consequently, obesity, muscle weakness, osteoporosis and other conditions. “Many vets mistake Cushing’s for liver disease,�?says Messonnier, “because there are similarities in blood-test results.�?He suggested several natural therapies such as a whole-foods diet, a multivitamin supplement, an herbal supplement and a glandular support formula. Cushing’s can be fatal on its own or can lead to other life-threatening conditions such as diabetes, liver and kidney failure and congestive heart failure, but Tiffany rallied on the holistic treatments. And even though the Mullaneys had to say a tearful good-bye to Tiffany just before her 14th birthday in January of this year, Mullaney says, “I don’t have any scientific proof, but I believe the holistic approach bought us another 21/2 wonderful years with Tiffany—and that’s a lot better than two months.�?/FONT> Complementary avenues for healing Over the last decade, the U.S. medical community has slowly begun to recognize the importance of alternative and complementary therapies, and now the same process is under way in veterinary healthcare, explains Allen Schoen, DVM, a pioneer in integrative veterinary medicine and author of Kindred Spirits: How the Remarkable Bond Between Humans and Animals Can Change the Way We Live (Broadway, 2002). Indeed, veterinary medicine looks a whole lot different than it did in 1982 when Carvel Tiekert, DVM, founded the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA). More vets than ever are answering public demand for alternative care for all types of pets, including birds and exotic animals. “Membership in AHVMA has increased 50 percent in the last 10 years,�?says Tiekert, now the organization’s executive director. And, he adds, AHVMA has spawned a number of medical specialty groups, such as the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association and the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association. So, what’s driving the increased acceptance of complementary approaches to pet care? As is true for people, sometimes no conventional treatments exist for an animal’s condition. For example, explains Messonnier, leaky gut syndrome, which is very common but not often diagnosed by conventional veterinarians, responds well to probiotics and the amino acid glutamine—just as it does for humans. Many consumers also believe that natural therapies are safer for their animal companions than conventional ones. Consider the first-line conventional treatments for osteo-arthritis, a condition that usually affects older animals and often manifests as stiffness, limping or difficulty rising or lying down. Vets often prescribe corticosteroids and anti-inflammatories, but Messonnier cautions that both have potentially nasty side effects, such as diabetes, Cushing’s disease, liver and kidney disease and gastrointestinal ulcers. On the other hand, he notes, glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate are research-supported, effective and safe natural alternatives for pets as well as people. But in opting for alternatives, don’t throw the puppy out with the bathwater. If an animal has been hit by a car or faces some other emergency, conventional medicine is still your best bet, says integrative veterinarian Robert Silver, DVM, founder and medical director of Boulder’s Natural Animal in Boulder, Colo. “You determine the most important thing to do first but then reassess as you go along. Often that means using conventional treatment to get through the emergency and then including natural therapies for long-term support and recovery.�?For example, surgery may be required to repair a fracture or a large laceration, but once the immediate crisis is over, alternative treatments such as acupuncture for pain management or herbs to reduce inflammation can be very effective. A cockatoo named Jaffa Birds and other more exotic pets can benefit from natural therapies, too. In 1995 when Cynthia Lankenau, DVM, first met Jaffa, a sulfur-crested cockatoo in her mid-20s, the doctor was deeply saddened by the large parrot’s condition. Jaffa’s grief over the death of her first human companion had led to serious feather picking and self-mutilation. “Birds are very sensitive and emotional, so it’s not surprising that up to 80 percent of the health conditions I see are behaviorally or emotionally based,�?explains Lankenau from her clinic in Colden, N.Y. In Jaffa’s case, too many hours left alone, too many emotional upheavals and an undetected food allergy had caused the bird to pick many of her own feathers and tear at her own flesh, resulting in a crusty sore that covered her entire chest. Her new caretaker did her best to help, using many conventional treatments such as antibiotics and a cone over Jaffa’s head, but all had dismal results. Lankenau first treated Jaffa with acupuncture (birds respond especially well to acupuncture, she says) and homeopathic remedies such as Pulsatilla and Natrum muriaticum. Just a few months later, Jaffa had allowed her feathers to fill in, and her chest ulcer had shrunk to the size of a nickel. Unfortunately, Lankenau didn’t see Jaffa again for nine years. This time she was in even worse shape and was scheduled to be put down. Her whole chest was once again an open sore, and she had plucked out all of her vent and flight feathers. “Her owner had many emotional traumas in her life and very little time to devote to Jaffa,�?Lankenau explains, “so we decided Jaffa should come live with me.�? Now, after more homeopathy, nutritional supplements and dietary changes to address her allergy, Jaffa is a brand-new bird, contentedly spending her days either riding around on Lankenau’s shoulder during veterinary client visits or chatting with office staff. “It’s a big commitment to care for one of these birds,�?Lankenau says. “These creatures are worth the effort though,�?she adds. “Even when things were the worst, Jaffa was always very kind and loving. She gives great bird hugs.�? Two paws up for holistic therapies Many pet lovers can be classified as either dog people or cat people. Ann Huey definitely falls in the cat-loving category and feels she owes a great deal to holistic vet care. Huey’s gentle 3-year-old tortoise-shell-and-tabby cat, Deluxie, is a running, jumping tribute to the value of integrative medicine. But she wasn’t always this healthy and active. Diagnosed in September 2003 with polyarthritis (arthritis occurring in multiple joints), Deluxie nearly died in February 2004 from her high daily dose of prednisolone, a steroid prescribed by her veterinarian. Intended to address the pain and inflammation associated with her condition, initially the drug gave Deluxie a much-needed reprieve, Huey says. Yet, after a few short months, low dosages were no longer helping, and the increasing dosages took their toll. In horror, Huey watched as Deluxie found it harder and harder to move. And her previously alert ears started collapsing, a sign that the steroid was causing the cat’s tissues todegenerate. When a veterinary technician picked Deluxie up to do a routine blood draw, her skin literally ripped. Huey knew something had to change, and fast. They tried taking Deluxie completely off the prednisolone on numerous occasions, but her condition immediately deteriorated each time. What they ended up with, Huey explains, is a plan that combines a greatly reduced dose of prednisolone with natural therapies such as a more wholesome diet, an antioxidant supplement and various homeopathic remedies directed at treating Deluxie’s arthritis and supporting her immune system. Did the holistic plan work? If you could catch Deluxie she’d say “yes,�?but right now she’s way too busy: “It only took a few weeks, and we got to watch Deluxie run again,�?Huey says. “Now she’s climbing trees and is even up on the roof of our storage shed.�? Veterinary Alternatives for Common Conditions “Some of the most common life-threatening ailments for dogs and cats include kidney disease, heart disease and cancer,�?explains holistic veterinarian Shawn Messonnier, DVM. And like their human-physician counterparts, holistic vets are finding that natural modalities are important tools for treating these conditions. Consider the following comparisons. Cancer Conventional medicine. Depending on the type of cancer and its location, surgery may or may not be used to remove the tumor(s). Radiation, chemotherapy or both may also be included. Holistic medicine. The best defense against most types of cancer is a strong immune system. However, depending on the type and location of the cancer, as well as the animal’s general condition, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy may or may not be used initially to remove or kill cancerous cells. Regardless, nutritional changes offer additional support. For example, decreasing carbohydrates can “starve�?cancer cells (glucose is a cancer cell’s favorite fuel) and increasing omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit the formation and spread of cancers and guard against wasting. Antioxidant supplements and immune system-enhancing herbs such as the antimicrobials garlic (Allium sativum) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) are other options for ongoing treatment and to protect animals against the toxic effects of conventional treatments. Kidney disease Conventional medicine. Treatment generally consists of dietary changes such as reducing protein, phosphorus and sodium while increasing B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Additional options include increasing subcutaneous or intravenous fluids, as well as pharmaceuticals to relieve vomiting from uremic toxin overload. Holistic medicine. Dietary changes and additional fluids form the treatment base, but many alternative therapies also may help, such as the herbs astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) to improve kidney circulation, dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale) for anti-inflammatory activity and waste elimination, echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) for its immune-stimulating and antimicrobial effects, and garlic (Allium sativum) to increase detoxification enzymes and for its antimicrobial activity. Homeopathic remedies, such as Silicea to boost stamina or Thuja occidentalis for urinary tract infections, may offer additional support. Heart disease Conventional medicine. Besides dietary recommendations and exercise, there’s virtually nothing in conventional veterinary medicine to address heart disease. It’s not until the condition progresses to heart failure that conventional drugs such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics and calcium channel blockers become somewhat helpful. Holistic medicine. In contrast, earlier is better for treating heart disease with alternative therapies such as the herb hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha), which both strengthens the heart and stabilizes it against arrhythmias. You can also use homeopathic remedies such as Adonis vernalis to strengthen heart contractions and Strophanthus hispidus to tone heart muscle (both remedies help remove excess fluid as well). Carnitine and taurine amino acid supplements may also be beneficial since deficiencies of both have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (congestive heart failure). Good health for your pets DOGS AND CATS The Honest Kitchen: Verve, Force and Embark dog foods. (www.thehonestkitchen.com; 858.483.5995) PetGuard: Organic Adult Dry Dog Food and Organic Chicken and Vegetable Entrée for Cats. (www.petguard.com ; 866.364.3362) Rx Vitamins: MegaFlex for arthritis and Formula CV for heart disease. (www.rxvitamins.com/pets; 800.792.2222) Animal Health Options: Proanthozone, an antioxidant for cancer. (www.animalhealthoptions.com; 800.845.8849) Nutri-West: Cardioplex for heart disease and Whole System Kidney for kidney disease. (www.nutriwest.com; 800.443.3333) BIRDS EntirelyPets: Missing Link Avian Formula. (www.entirelypets.com/mislinavfor3.html; 800.889.8967) Herbs ’n Birds: Herb Salad for Birds. (www.herbsnbirds.com) Nature’s Pet: Dr. Harvey’s Parrot and Pet Bird Foods. (www.naturespet.com/birds.html; 210.796.0627)
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RX Ear Infections
By Victoria L. Freeman, PhD
Ask a conventional veterinarian what to do about your pet’s ear infection, and you’ll likely learn about antibiotics and other drugs directed specifically at the ear. Naturopathic healing, on the other hand, views ear infections as evidence of an underlying problem and treats them as such. “Ear conditions are rarely an acute infection,�?explains all-natural veterinarian Cynthia Lankenau, DVM, from Colden, New York. “Rather they are usually a sign that the body is trying to detoxify a deeper chronic disease, which is why ear conditions tend to reoccur when you treat them in isolation.�? The liver and gallbladder meridians commonly detoxify through the ear, Lankenau explains. Thus chronic ear infections may signal the presence of some common liver or gallbladder irritants: poor-quality food, food allergies, vaccinosis (vaccine-induced chronic disease), or exposure to environmental toxins like commercial weed killers or chemical-laden household cleaners. If you notice symptoms of infection—such as an offensive odor, a yellowish discharge, head shaking, ear scratching—tend to the irritants. Then take the following steps, which Lankenau recommends to make your pet more comfortable while allowing the discharge to continue. �?Gently clean the ear using a flush of tepid green tea, a mild topical astringent that draws out excessive moisture, reducing inflammation and pain. Place 10 drops in the outer ear canal, massage, and let your pet shake out the excess. �?With your veterinarian’s OK, give your pet herbs such as eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) and rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia), which reduce inflammation and mucus production. Chinese herbs such as coptis (Huang lian) and skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) reduce damp heat, which Traditional Chinese Medicine associates with ear conditions. Use tinctures or tablets, depending on the animal’s preference, with dosages ranging from a human dose for large dogs (100-plus pounds) down to one-sixteenth of a human dose for a small cat. Check with a holistic veterinarian for appropriate amounts for your pet. �?Consider combining acupuncture with Chinese herbs; acupuncture moves stagnant qi and herbs move blood and phlegm. Together they can be quite powerful. �?Homeopathy, also a strong healer, tends to each animal’s unique constitution. Early treatment with homeopathy often proves difficult because the veterinarian can’t pinpoint the best remedy until the animal’s various symptoms become clear. But many homeopathic remedies, notably Graphities and Pulsatilla, treat ear conditions successfully.
From: http://www.alternativemedicine.com
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 7/8/2006 6:01 AM |
Bach Flower Remedies for Animals
Just as humans benefit from flower essences, so can your animals.
Many have seen incredible results using the Bach Essences. When you think about it, Bach Flower Remedies are to the emotional body what Homeopathics are to the physical body. So if the Bach Flowers resonate with the emotional body to re-establish balance and harmony in a human's physical body why wouldn't your pets also benefit. The following information will give you an idea of how the remedies can be presented in connection to animal behavior. I highly recommend this page to you ! Hugs |
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 7/8/2006 6:12 AM |
Another excellent resource for pet owners: Ethoxyquin is used as a preservative in many pet foods and human foods. Even if the label doesn't list ethoxyquin (a carcinogen), it could still very well be in that food. Because of labeling law loopholes, many pet foods containing ethoxyquin do not have to list it on the label. If the food you buy already has ethoxyquin in the fat, it doesn't have to be listed on the label, because the food manufacturer didn't actually put it in. For instance, if it was added to oils, grease and fats recovered from restaurants to keep them from going rancid, it does not have to be listed on the label. Most pet food companies coat the kibble with these oils and fats to make it more palatable to our pets. The use of Ethoxyquin has been implicated with thyroid problems, hair loss and reproductive disorders and more. ........... Scroll on down the page to read the rest of this article............. http://www.puddytatandtiggertoo.com/id28.htm |
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 10/12/2006 10:07 PM |
Tales of four cats... and a dog
homeopathy for pets
By Eirc Asher and John Saxton
All these stories emphasise the fact that homeopathy is a universal healing principal. Eric Asher is a medical homeopath (or medical doctor practising homeopathy) and John Saxton is a homeopathic veterinary surgeon. Eric’s prescriptions are based on his knowledge of treating people and a deep understanding of the cats and dog involved �?their personalities and little idiosyncracies that are so important in homeopathic healing. However, before sharing his experiences with others, he invited John Saxton to comment on his treatment approaches. Lynx
A long time ago, in a galaxy far away...(well it was Australia, ten years ago, but it does feel like a galaxy away from UK) there was a much loved, if moderately simple tom named Lynx. He was a Russian Blue/Burmese cross and most handsome indeed. His silky fine coat was the pride of the family. A philosopher cat, a studious cat; not one given to hastiness. His indecision was indeed a source of some annoyance, especially in a household already given to this Libran vice. When he developed scabby eczema at the base of his spine, his vet muttered darkly about a series of cortisone injections. While this is perfectly sensible conventional veterinary advice, it did not sit well with his family so we reasoned that homeopathic remedies might work as well for him as for the human patients. Lynx was a chilly lad and such a scabby boy. His little face would look out the door in perplexity. Should he go out for a stroll or not? What weighty matters for a feline brain to bear. Like many cats he would hog the heater and seemed, again like many cats, almost impervious to heat. The poor fellow spent such effort trying to stop the infernal itching but scratching only seemed to make it worse. His refined bearing and fine silky coat made me think of some Silica children I had seen, although they were somewhat cleverer than the cat. I gave him Silica and then finally Psorinum, based more on the keynote of itch and chilliness than any other clue such as smelliness. Smelly? My cat? His eczema left him never to return. JS: The standard conventional veterinary approach to problems such as this is either steroids, as recommended in this case, or hormones. These latter take the form of the contraceptive pill (in an animal formulation), administered either orally or by injection. Unfortunately the other knee jerk reaction of many conventional vets is a diagnosis of “flea bite allergy�? This removes the hormonal approach from consideration, but substitutes heavy and routine application of flea treatments, in spite of the fact that no fleas have been seen in the household within living memory! This is an extension of the widely propagated idea that if there is an animal in a household then a flea infestation is inevitable which, in my view, is not the case. Although modern flea treatments have moved on from the organo-phosphate days, they are still strong chemicals which should not be administered without good cause. Fortunately for Lynx, none of these approaches would “sit well with his family�? Although the remedy Silica was selected on purely physical criteria, it is interesting how aspects of the mental picture can be seen in Lynx. The love of heat is there, and in the literature phrases such as 'faint-hearted', 'anxious' and 'irresolute' are used about Silica. When assessing an animal’s 'cleverness' it is always necessary to remember the species involved, as their social and intellectual priorities may be very different from those of the human assessing them. Similarly with 'smelliness', this is an emphasis made from the human perspective, and although some animals needing Psorinum do indeed smell (and how!), it is not an absolute imperative. The full reason behind the need for two remedies is beyond the scope of this commentary, but the combination was obviously correct. Lottie
My cat-in-law in the West Midlands also had cat eczema, a few years later. Now, compared to her, our Lynx was a marvel of determination. She too would stand for extended periods at the back door considering the pros and cons of going outside. At times a helpful boot would assist her decision-making process. Lottie was a dyspeptic and rather flatulent. Her family made hurtful comments about her 'cheap nylon fur' and indeed, though an unkind description, this was more or less the effect it gave. Her scabs were impressive and seemed to be of crusty white tenacious material on her upper back. Her vet had given her several cortisone injections but these had made no difference whatsoever. She had not a cruel claw in her paws and this made Anacardium seem unlikely. In chatting with her mummy, my sister-in-law, I confirmed all the above and suggested that before giving even more cortisone, that she go to chemist and get some Graphites 6c. She did this and three weeks later the scabs were better and at six weeks were gone, never to return. Moreover Lottie has a lustrous shiny coat and now, at seven-year follow-up, we never hear any more nasty talk of cheap nylon fur (indeed!). JS: The unsuccessful use of cortisone here emphasises the common pattern in many skin conditions treated in veterinary practice. Unfortunately, as outlined above, the conventional approach offers few alternatives although antibiotics may be thrown in periodically for good measure. The accurate diagnosis in this case was obviously 'Graphites deficiency', and the remedy addressed not only the presenting worry of the scabs but also the underlying imbalance in the body. As with Lynx, a remedy selected on local grounds also fitted the broader picture, in this case of dyspepsia, flatulence and indecision. Bully Beef
Bully Beef is a large, nervous and affectionate boy with thicker white fur. In Oz he would always be sunning himself despite my advice that it would give him skin cancers on his face. The 'white cat �?no ears' syndrome seemed inevitable. Eventually an early cancer did develop on most of his right forehead. The vet suggested treatment with radioactive gold needles. Before proceeding to mortgage our house to pay for this, I suggested we treat him as if he were a human, with Fluorouracil cream, a cheap anticancer drug. The vet agreed. It worked a treat, but took months to heal properly. Now, Bully Beef was a thirstless cat with a passion for cuddles and butter. Easy one! Pulsatilla. This used to keep him generally well in Oz. However, once in UK, he became a thirsty cat with a definite aversion to cold and particularly to sudden noises. We thought no more of this until the cancer started to return at the edge of the treatment field after several years. I did not have the heart to have him blasted with the chemotherapy cream again immediately, so I studied his case: thirsty, affectionate, desire to be stroked, startles, elegant, epithelioma (cancer of the face). Only one remedy stood out: Phosphorus. The cancer went. He needs a repeat dose each three to six months. He recently developed insulin dependent diabetes. Phosphorus, acting on the pancreas (among other tissues) seems to have helped keep his insulin requirements to the lower end of the treatment range. JS: The quarantine experience obviously did not have the same effect as it did with Poppy, but there were definite changes after coming to the UK. It is interesting to speculate as to the influence of the change of hemisphere in these, as in the remedy based on the north pole of a magnet, marked sensations of coldness in the body are reported. Be that as it may, another possible influence could have been the confinement of quarantine tipping Bully Beef towards a remedy which is even more loving of company than Pulsatilla. The tendency to cancer was present in both locations and the local treatment, although apparently helping,was obviously not the answer. The influence of the Phosphorus on the insulin requirement raises the question of the effect of constitutional remedies on the functioning of endocrine glands. This primarily involves the pancreas and the thyroid glands. Whether the problem is one of over- or under-activity, if constitutional remedies are being used successfully to treat associated conditions, they will tend to normalise the gland function. Hence any animals who are receiving treatment for such conditions will require closer monitoring of those conditions than would be normal. This is an area where close cooperation with a vet is essential. This is an edited extract and the view article can be viewed at www. trusthomeopathy.org The British Homeopathic Association and Faculty of Homeopathy web site aims to be accurate, reliable and evidence-based - information you can trust. The site has three main sections - one primarily for members of the public, one for healthcare professionals and one about research in homeopathy. www. trusthomeopathy.org |
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| | | From: Rene | Sent: 5/7/2007 6:25 PM |
Creature Comforts - Bodywork for Pets Animals respond remarkably well to techniques developed for their caregivers.
Once upon a time the word bodywork referred only to something that happened inside an auto repair shop. But as interest in alternative therapies grew, health-minded people everywhere came to realize their bodies could use an occasional tune-up, too. These days, just about everyone has reaped the benefits of a massage therapist’s skillful touch, a chiropractor’s precise adjustments, or an acupuncturist’s qi-freeing needles. But humans and Volkswagens aren’t the only ones to experience the healing potential of bodywork-pets are getting in on the game, too.
Whether it’s massage, acupuncture, chiropractic, or craniosacral, bodywork helps pets heal-with impressive results. Read on to learn about some of the more tried-and-true modalities, as well as a few new ones on the horizon.
Chiropractic
Chiropractors realign musculoskeletal problems that can cause joint and nerve dysfunction. They examine the body-from toe to jaw-looking for inflammation, spasm, muscle loss, or neurological problems that result from a skewed musculoskeletal system. Sometimes the signs don’t appear to relate directly to structure. For example, rough coats and hair loss may signal compressed nerves. When chiropractors find abnormalities, they use low-force adjustments like stretching, gentle pulling, and guiding limbs to restore normal range of motion.
The therapist should tread gently with pets because of their delicate disk material, says certified animal chiropractor Julie Kaufman, DC, owner of The Animal Holistic Care Specialists in Marshall, Wisconsin, and author of Joint Yoga for Animals (Xenophon, 2006).
Patricia McConnell, PhD, author of For the Love of Dogs (Ballantine, 2006), has taken all five of her dogs to Kaufman, from 4-month-old Will to 15-year-old Pip. Will favored his right shoulder, leaning over to one side-sometimes called a lazy sit-and McConnell wanted to address any problem before it became chronic. After minor adjustments to his neck, right shoulder, and hip, Will was sitting straight, says McConnell. And although she has seen results firsthand, McConnell admits that the movements are so gentle she sometimes wonders if anything is happening.
Some pets look startled after adjustment, yawn (which can indicate they’re feeling stressed), and stretch. "Pathology of disease is due to conflict within the nervous system," explains Betsy King, DVM, CVA, of Mesa, Arizona. "Realignments reset the nervous system, thereby enhancing the flow of qi."
Craniosacral therapy
Craniosacral therapy (CST) aims to bring balance to the membranes and fluid around the brain and spinal cord, collectively called the craniosacral region. A subtle rhythm or pulse moves through those fluids and tissues, and a disruption-or strain-in this rhythm produces a ripple effect throughout the body. This can cause balance problems and neurological disorders, says Narda Robinson, DO, DVM, who teaches complementary medicine at Colorado State University in Fort Collins and practices craniosacral therapy on cats.
CST practitioners detect rhythm changes by placing their hands along the head and neck and sense the subtle movements of the cranial bones. Any motions exerted by the practitioner onto the cranium are light, like moving a wet bar of soap along a surface. The goal is to alert the body, a self-regulating mechanism, to the imbalance and facilitate release of the strained motion. Practitioners follow the motions and releases within the craniosacral system and allow their hands to follow the cyclical motions of the craniosacral rhythm. Using an informed and delicate influence, the practitioner can assist the body in self-correction. "The body is so capable. If it realizes things are awry, it will make corrections," Robinson explains.
CST worked for Marley, a 9-year-old pug who suffered from seizures caused by Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Ehrlichiosis, two tick-borne diseases that weakened his immune system and left him unable to stand or walk properly. His owner, Sara Hassler, consulted eight veterinarians in Connecticut before finding relief. After one craniosacral session, Marley’s front paws showed signs of straightening, and his spirits soared. "I can’t describe it," says Hassler, "but it works so well."
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, relatively new to animals in the US, boasts a long history in China-possibly dating back 3,000 years to when horses first benefited from needling. Now it’s gaining favor with mainstream Western veterinarians who recommend it for dermatological issues, pain management, and digestive problems, though it is still most popular for chronic musculoskeletal ailments.
Based on the animal’s particular illness, acupuncturists insert needles into specific points and leave them in for anywhere from 10 seconds to 30 minutes. These sites, dense with blood vessels and nerve endings, lie close to the skin’s surface and strongly influence the animal’s physiology. Stimulating the points increases qi and circulation to the point and clears blockages that contribute to illness and discomfort.
If Rook could talk, the 11-year-old German shepherd, crippled with arthritis, would surely recommend acupuncture. After several sessions, he now romps with deer in Montana and jumps on the couch without assistance. "We saw an obvious change after the first visit," says owner Cherry Moon of Columbia Falls, who was able to wean Rook off pain pills and steroids completely because of acupuncture’s successful results.
Aquapressure puts a different spin on acupuncture, using hypodermic needles (instead of thin acupuncture needles) to inject fluids (usually saline mixed with B12) into acupuncture points. This therapy works well for wiggly pets who will not sit still for acupuncture treatments, since it is fast and can provide targeted delivery of medications. For pets with kidney disease, aquapuncture can deliver subcutaneous fluids into kidney points located on the back. For animals with joint problems, it infuses vulnerable areas with nutrients or medications while stimulating acupuncture points-a two-for-one treatment, says Liz Fernandez, DVM, CVA, who owns a mobile veterinary service in Simi Valley, California. "You can use your knowledge of acupuncture points to inject medications or fluids anywhere that is appropriate," she says.
Other variations on acupuncture include electroacupuncture, which applies electrical current to needles for additional stimulation, and acupressure, which replaces needles with very deep hand or finger pressure.
Tui Na massage
Massage may be the most popular form of pet bodywork, but Tui Na, a Chinese hybrid of massage and acupressure, is gaining popularity. It alleviates joint, musculoskeletal, and nerve pain. It also relieves emotional and physical stress on the body and supports immune function.
In Tui Na workshops, Fernandez teaches pet owners to heal with intentional touch. Massage and acupressure release tension and pain in soft tissues while balancing internal organs such as lungs, heart, diaphragm, and the small intestine. While massaging the back, where many points are located, pet owners learn to listen to a pet’s needs and respond with confidence. "Don’t be afraid to do whatever comes to you to do," Fernandez tells clients. "The most powerful healing force in the world is love, and if you connect, you can be very powerful. I encourage people to get out of their heads, into their hearts, and really connect."
Finding a practitioner
When seeking bodywork for pets, make sure to research choices, ask for client testimonials, and check local laws regulating animal therapies. Kim Jonah, a craniosacral therapist in Glastonbury, Connecticut, says testimonials provide the best gauge for bodywork professionals. "You really can be judged by the results," she says. Courtesy of Alternative Medicine
[http://www.alternativemedicine.com] |
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Reply
| | | From: Rene | Sent: 1/15/2008 6:33 PM |
January 15, 2008:- You've heard it said before that pets resemble their owners. That's true in more ways than one. The diseases they get are all too familiar, too: heart disease, cancer, arthritis. The rise in human diseases among pets is no great mystery. They're getting sick for the same reasons humans are: too much cooked, processed food. The difference is that you have a choice; they don't.
And if they're not getting adequate nutrition through their diets, you should at least considering investing in supplements. You know that I've long defended multivitamins against arbitrary and alarmist attacks by the media and medical communities. Not too long ago, there was a study that made the absurd suggestion that daily multivitamin use could be harmful and even deadly. But I was here to let you know that while I may not agree that the multivitamins that are commonly available are as good as they claim to be, they certainly aren't going to kill you. But today's item is about the benefits of multivitamin and supplement use, not the nonexistent dangers. And it comes to us from the veterinary community. Even pets at an advanced age can benefit greatly from pet supplements. Take Sierra, for example. Sierra the cat wasn't doing so well. She couldn't jump on the counter. She didn't want to play. She seemed to be in pain. But since she's started taking vitamins, this 13-year-old feline is frisky as ever. She's jumping up on the counter. She's chasing balls of yarn. In short, she's got her old life back. In Sierra's case, the improvement in quality of life was significant after the introduction of a multivitamin supplement. The pet supplement industry is growing because the results have been good for pets taking supplements. In the case of Sierra, the multivitamins she took included glucosamine and chondroitin, both of which are enormously beneficial for joint ailments. Glucosamine is a key component of joint cartilage, and is commonly used for treatment of osteoarthritis, along with chondroitin. Anyone familiar with dietary supplements knows of these two elements and is aware that they're often combined. What you may not know is that there's been a fair degree of controversy over their actual effectiveness in the treatment of humans with joint pain �?in spite of the many cases of positive results in several clinical trials. That stink you smell is Big Pharma. Is it any wonder that there are doubts about the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin? After all �?these are natural elements that needn't be formulated or created by labs �?the source is the exoskeletons of crustaceans, arthropods, and fungi. And as many bows as Big Pharma likes to take, there's no way they can be credited for the existence of lobsters or mushrooms (though it wouldn't surprise me if the buggers tried!). And according to vets, these supplements are working like gangbusters for older cats and dogs that have the same kinds of degenerative joint issues that humans have. The vet community was wary of multivitamins and supplements at first. Their benefits weren't generally taught in veterinary schools, and there weren't many on the market. But it's hard to argue with results. (And even the smartest pooch hasn't figured out the placebo effect.) Veterinarian Dr. Tim Montague was one of those unconvinced about the benefits of pet supplements. Then he tried them on his Golden Retriever Ayla, who was suffering from an arthritic shoulder. "She could barely make it up the stairs, but with within a week after the supplement, she was running and catching Frisbees in the yard. That sold me," Montague said. Now don't go slipping your dog or cat one of your own supplements with their breakfast, since the effect of many human supplements are untested on pets and the dosages can be very different. In fact, vets claim that many of the supplements actually made for pets are of dubious quality, and of a lower standard than the quality of supplements for people. Knowing what I know about the so-called "quality" of human supplements, that's a frightening thought. The lesson here is that the right vitamins can be a boon to the health and quality of life for people and their pets. But if you're going to take them �?or give them �?be sure to get them fully "vetted" out by your doctor or vet. William Campbell Douglass II, M.D
[http://www.douglassreport.com/dailydose/freecopy.html] |
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