Natural Pet Health Education

What Causes Constipation in Dogs and Cats?

What causes constipation in dogs and cats? Below, we provide the answer to this question that includes the most common factors that could be contributing to your pet’s constipation. Poor Quality Food The majority of processed pet foods contain highly refined and low-fiber ingredients. These often poor quality ingredients facilitate the condition of constipation in our dogs and cats. Very often ingredients such as tomato pomace or beet pulp are added to pet foods as a source of fiber, however, being by-products (or waste products) of the human food industry they generally make poor additions to pet foods. In the wild our canines and felines would consume fur, providing ample fiber, and bone, providing bulk, to provide normal stools and prevent constipation. Ingredients such as ground bone are found in commercially available raw foods and help to create healthy stools and naturally express anal glands. In addition to the above, dry, kibble pet food often leads to constipation for another reason. Raw foods, as our dogs and cats have evolved to eat, contain high amounts of moisture. Compare this to kibble pet food that usually has a maximum moisture content of 10%, but is usually closer to 5%. This low level of moisture is necessary to preserve the food for extended shelf life, but is a major cause of constipation in dogs and cats. Kibble pet foods can be especially detrimental to cats that have evolved from desert felines that don’t drink very much water and should be getting the majority of their fluid intake from the food they eat. Kibble is yet another example of how large pet food corporations put shelf life and profits ahead of your dog or cat’s health. Dehydration As indicated above, dehydration is a major cause of constipation in our dogs and cats, and the major contributor is dry, kibble pet foods. Constipation due to low moisture occurs because fluids help to move waste through the digestive tract. By the time digestive waste gets to the colon much moisture has been lost, and it is in the colon where water is removed and stool is formed. When the waste is already dry it will become even dryer in the colon thereby slowing its elimination and causing a chronic condition of constipation. Poor Digestion Poorly digested food is a common problem in our dogs and cats and often contributes to constipation. This occurs because larger food particles are not broken down properly into their smaller constituents that allow for normal absorption through the digestive tract. These larger food particles can contribute to damage and disease in the digestive tract and the inefficient movement and elimination of waste. Age As dogs and cats age, the wave-like movements that move waste through the digestive tract, called peristalsis, get weaker along with other tissue and organ systems within the body leading to constipation. Often, stimulant laxatives will be prescribed by the veterinarian leading to dependence on these drugs along with numerous potential side-effects. Exercise (as discussed below) alone, or when combined with a healthier diet, can often be very helpful if age is contributing to your pet’s constipation. Drugs Certain drugs can cause constipation by increasing the amount of time it takes waste to move through the digestive system resulting in more moisture being removed and drier stool. Drugs can increase nonpropulsive contractions in the middle of the small intestine while decreasing beneficial propulsive peristalsis. Certain drugs can also partially paralyze the stomach so that food remains in this digestive organ for a longer period of time while at the same time reducing digestive secretions and the urge to defecate. All of these drug side-effects can result in food that fails to travel through the digestive tract properly and subsequent constipation. If your dog or cat’s elimination behavior changes soon after the addition of a new medication there is a very good possibility that the drug is contributing to the constipation. If you aren’t sure you can do an online search to check for the side effects of the medication you are using. Imbalances / Disease Various imbalances, or disease states, that our companion animals experience can contribute to constipation. This occurs for similar reasons to the use of certain medications. Different conditions can interfere with the normal movement of waste through the digestive tract and the formation of healthy stool in the colon. Conditions that may cause constipation include hormonal conditions like hypothyroidism, tumors in the colon or rectum, neurologic conditions, or injuries and painful conditions, like osteoarthritis, that can make it uncomfortable to pass stool. Lack of Exercise A dog or cat’s lack of exercise can contribute to constipation in a similar way to aging as described above. Muscle movement contributes to peristalsis and also lymphatic flow within an animal’s body. This is because these systems do not have a pump as the circulatory system has the heart to move blood around the body. Instead, peristalsis relies on smooth muscle movements, so when an animal becomes out of shape and lies around a lot with no exercise, lean muscle becomes weaker or is lost altogether. This contributes to an overall weaker animal, but as pertains to this topic, less effective peristalsis and the inefficient movement of waste through the digestive tract leading to constipation. When Should I Bring My Dog to the Vet? Bring your dog to the vet if your dog or cat does not have a normal bowel movement in 48 hours. Natural Treatment for Constipation Natural treatment for constipation can be as simple as changing over to a more natural diet, adding more fluid to your dog or cats food, adding a soluble fiber source to your pet’s food and/or making sure they get more exercise. We have a Natural Constipation Protocol we developed to assist you with some helpful product recommendations and lots of useful information. We are here to help so feel free to contact us by email or toll free at 888-683-3339 if you need more personalized attention. References Causes of Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC). Retrieved from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/oic/causes-of-opioid-induced-constipation.php Constipation in Dogs. Retrieved from http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/constipation-in-dogs/7684 Hoffman, D. (2003). Medical herbalism: The science and practice of herbal medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. Kidd, R. (2000). Dr. Kidd’s guide to herbal dog care. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing. Messonnier, S. (2001). Natural health bible for dogs & cats: You’re a-z guide to over 200 conditions, herbs, vitamins and supplements. New York, NY: Three Rivers Press. Murray, M. T., & Pizzorno, J. E. (1998). Encyclopedia of natural medicine (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Three Rivers Press. Pitcairn R. H., & Hubble-Pitcairn S. (1995). Dr. Pitcairn’s complete guide to natural health for dogs & cats. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, Inc. Pitchford, P. (2002). Healing with whole foods: Asian traditions and modern nutrition (3rd ed.). Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books. Puotinen, CJ. (2000). The encyclopedia of natural pet care (2nd ed.). Los Angeles, CA: Keats Publishing. Tilford, G. L., & Wulff, M. L. (2009). Herbs for pets: The natural way to enhance your pet’s life. (2nd ed.). Irvine, CA: BowTie Press. Thibodeau, G.A., & Patton, K.T. (2008). Structure & function of the body. St. Louis, MO: Mosby. This information is for education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition. Information on herbs and supplements has not been evaluated by the FDA.

Cats
Dogs
Health

How to Feed Your Dog

Although dogs are in the classification of carnivore they are not obligate carnivores like cats. What this means is they can utilize nutrients from varied sources to stay alive. Although our domestic dog has descended from wolves they have been living with humans for thousands of years and have adapted to a more varied diet than their wild cousins. What to Feed Your Dog We recommend a whole food diet over processed pet food. Generally, a biologically appropriate raw food diet is our first choice however there are times, and individual dogs, for whom a home-cooked diet may be the better option. Lower down on this page we offer suggestions for prepared diets you can purchase locally or online. The following information is for those that may wish to home-prepare their dog's diet. In an attempt to make it easier for people who wish to home-prepare a diet for their dogs I have boiled down the basics to a percentage formula: 50%-65% - animal products (meat, fish, dairy, eggs, raw bones) 10%-15% - organ meats 25%-40% - vegetables and other plants Animal Products Meat – beef, lamb, venison, rabbit, turkey, chicken etc. Can be fed raw, cooked or browned on the stove top. Fish – try to stay mostly low on the food chain like sardines, anchovies and mackerel. Avoid salmon – Pacific and Atlantic as well as tuna and shark due to high levels of contamination in these fish. Dairy – cottage cheese, yogurt (goat milk yogurt is more digestible) and raw milk. Organic dairy is always preferable as are pasture raise eggs. Organ Meats Kidney and liver are the most readily available. Our Multi Glandular supplement is another easy way to provide organs and glands to the diet Vegetables and Other Plants Try to rotate various vegetables so your dog has a variety and not just the same sweet potato and green beans. We like lower starch veggies like zucchini and squash and lower oxalate greens like organic leaf lettuces. Veggies should be steamed and greens liquefied. You can also add berries like cranberries, blueberries etc. in small quantities. Grains: I did not add grains to this plan because they can be pro-inflammatory, feed yeast and people tend to lean too heavily on them at the expense of other ingredients in the diet. If you want to add grain then small amounts of quinoa or oatmeal are good choices. *[IMPORTANT] Calcium – this is a critical nutrient that MUST be added to a home-prepared diet to ensure balancing out the phosphorous in the meat for the proper calcium to phosphorous ratio. If feeding a raw diet, then raw bones (bones should not be cooked because they can splinter) will do the trick. If you are cooking the diet (or are a raw feeder uncomfortable with bones) then our Natural Bone Calcium is an easy way to add the nutrient profile found in whole bone to the diet. Adding additional calcium is not necessary if feeding a commercially prepared/packaged diet as these companies already add a calcium source. Daily Multi Plus – Our whole food multi vitamin includes our digestive enzyme & Probiotic blend along with New Zealand glandulars and multi-nutrients from USDA Certified organic plants. Omega fatty acids supplement – We recommend either Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet or Organic Chia seed Oil. How Much to Feed Your Dog To determine how much to feed your dog a day the basic rule for a dog who is ideal weight is 2.5% of their body weight per day. If you are feeding your dog twice a day then divide this amount between both meals. You must use a kitchen scale to properly determine the proper amount of food. Break your dog's weight down to ounces and use ounces to determine the amount of food. Example: Your dog weighs 25 lbs and you want a maintenance diet of 2.5% of his body weight. His weight in ounces is 400 ounces (25 x 16 (ounces in a pound)). 2.5% of 400 equals 10 ounces (400 x .025). Meaning your dog would get 5 ounces of food twice per day. Here is a percent feeding calculator used by Primal Pet Foods: 1.5% Weight Loss 2.0% Non-Active 2.5% Maintain Weight 3.0% Slight Weight Gain 3.5% Significant Weight Gain 4.0% Kittens/Puppies (8 weeks-1 year) 4.5-8.0% Kittens/Puppies (4-8 weeks) 4.0-8.0% Pregnant/Lactating The above are guidelines, keep in mind that everyone is an individual so start with the percentage that seems right for your dog but don’t be afraid to make adjustments if you think it is too much or too little for your dog. Supplement Serving Size Table For any meals larger than 10 ounces just combine two columns. For example for 12 ounces combine the 10 and 2 columns. Using the precise serving size is not required when using whole food supplements. Your dog will utilize what he/she needs and safely eliminate any excess. Don’t make yourself crazy about getting the serving exact and estimate as best you can. Grams/Milligram measurements have been provided only for those wishing to be more precise. *Err with more rather than less for the Daily Multi Plus. **Double serving of Natural Bone Calcium for puppies and pregnant/nursing females. ***Select only one of the calcium supplements offered. Amount of Food in Ounces Daily Multi Plus* Multi Glandular Seaweed Calcium*** Natural Bone Calcium**(***) 1 1/8 tsp (250 mg) 1/16 tsp (140 mg) 1/16 tsp (190 mg) 1/8 tsp (500 mg) 1.5 Rounded 1/8 tsp (313 mg) 1/8 tsp (210 mg) 1/8 tsp (285 mg) Rounded 1/8 tsp (750 mg) 2 1/4 tsp (376 mg) Rounded 1/8 tsp (280 mg) 1/8 tsp (375 mg) 1/4 tsp (1 gram) 2.5 1/4 tsp (439 mg) More Rounded 1/8 tsp (350 mg) Rounded 1/8 tsp (570 mg) Rounded 1/4 tsp 1.25 grams) 3 1/4 tsp (500 mg) 1/4 tsp (420 mg) Rounded 1/8 tsp (570 mg) Rounded 1/4 tsp 1.5 grams) 3.5 Rounded 1/4 tsp (584 mg) Rounded 1/4 tsp (490 mg) Just Under 1/4 tsp (665 mg) Just Under 1/2 tsp (1.75 grams) 4 Rounded 1/4 tsp (668 mg) More Rounded 1/4 tsp (560 mg) 1/4 tsp (750 mg) 1/2 tsp (2 grams) 4.5 1/2 tsp (752 mg) More Rounded 1/4 tsp (630 mg) Rounded 1/4 tsp (855 mg) Rounded 1/2 tsp (2.25 grams) 5 1/2 tsp (836 mg) 1/2 tsp(700 mg) Rounded 1/4 tsp (950 mg) Rounded 1/2 tsp (2.5 grams) 5.5 1/2 tsp (920 mg) 1/2 tsp(770 mg) Just Under 3/8 tsp (1045 mg) Just Under 3/4 tsp (2.75 grams) 6 1/2 tsp (1 gram) 1/2 tsp (840 mg) 3/8 tsp (1,140 mg) 3/4 tsp (3 grams) 6.5 Rounded 1/2 tsp (1,100 mg) Rounded 1/2 tsp (910 mg) Rounded 3/8 tsp (1,235 mg) Rounded 3/4 tsp (3.25 grams) 7 Rounded 1/2 tsp (1,200mg) More Rounded 1/2 tsp (980 mg) Rounded 3/8 tsp (1,323 mg) Rounded 3/4 tsp (3.5 grams) 7.5 3/4 tsp (1,300 mg) More Rounded 1/2 tsp (1,050 mg) Just Under 1/2 tsp (1,411 mg) Just Under 1 tsp (3.75 grams) 8 3/4 tsp (1,400 mg) 3/4 tsp (1,120 mg) 1/2 tsp (1,500 mg) 1 tsp (4 grams) 8.5 3/4 tsp (1.5 mg) 3/4 tsp (1,190 mg) Rounded 1/2 tsp (1,600 mg) Rounded 1 tsp (4.25 grams) 9 3/4 tsp (1.5 grams) 3/4 tsp(1,260 mg) Rounded 1/2 tsp (1,700 mg) Rounded 1 tsp (4.5 grams)/td> 9.5 1 tsp (1.75 grams) Rounded 3/4 tsp (1,330 mg) Just Under 5/8 tsp (1,800 mg) Just Under 1 1/8 tsp (4.75 grams)( 10 1 tsp (2 grams) Rounded 3/4 tsp (1,400 mg) 5/8 tsp (1,900 mg) 1 1/8 tsp (5 grams) Prepared Diets For those that home-preparing is not an option (although for acute, severe illnesses it might be a good idea even if just for the short term) the following are some companies that make prepared diets in various categories that do an above average job: Recommended Prepared Diets for Dogs Best: To be included on “Best” list food must be sourced from organic and/or sustainable agriculture, include bones as a calcium source (if raw) and organ meats. Animals must be treated humanely. No HPP processing of raw diets. Minimal to no synthetic vitamins or chelated minerals. Good: To be included on good list food must be sourced from USDA certified ingredients that were fit for human consumption. Some of the companies on the list will source better ingredients than others with more information available on their websites. The cleaner the sourcing of the ingredients the better for your pet but also usually more expensive as well. These formulas will include some synthetic vitamins and/or chelated minerals but use far less than most other companies. Raw Food Diets for Dogs Pros Feature whole food nutrients, usually in the form of a biologically appropriate ratio for dogs. We do not recommend those “complete” diets with added synthetic vitamins and minerals. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics and extra nutrients and antioxidants. Nutrients are in a form easily recognized and utilized by the body Maintains healthy gastric hydrochloric acid levels for proper digestion Lower high-glycemic carbohydrates so animals fed these diets usually maintain a healthy weight and avoid disease related to fluctuating blood sugar levels - especially when compared to the average high carb kibble diet. Have appropriate moisture content so animals fed these diets avoid urinary and kidney diseases experienced by dogs fed dry kibble and high carbohydrate canned food diets. Cons Some people have a concern with bacteria that may be present in raw pet food. With proper raw meat handling this fear is baseless. The following is our educated response: The natural pH level of a dog’s stomach is a pH of 2 or lower. Pathogenic bacteria need a pH above 4 to survive and multiply. So pathogenic bacteria will be killed by gastric secretions in a healthy dog's stomach. When fed a processed diet a dog’s stomach pH can rise to a pH of 4 and above. This makes pets fed kibble and canned foods much more susceptible to bacteria than raw fed dogs. This is shown in the number of animals that have been sickened by kibble and canned food diets and the resulting recalls. When you think back to the number of recalls and the thousands of animals that have died or become sickened, what was responsible? The answer is kibble and canned food diets. These diets can of course be more expensive for obvious reasons – they use real meat and other ingredients – a BIG difference in quality for sure! Raw, whole food diets can change a dog’s life, we have personally witnessed this numerous times, so the next time you hear the fear mongering from your veterinarian or a friend or neighbor, realize one thing: their fear of raw food diets for dogs and cats is based in ignorance. BEST Raw Food Diets for Dogs Small Batch Pets Viva Raw Solutions Pet Products Wild Coast Raw (only available on West Coast) Dr. B’s Longevity (only available on the East Coast) GOOD Raw Food Diets for Dogs Darwin’s Natural Selections OC Raw Raw Dynamics Shine Specialized Raw Diets for Health Issues: Shine – Kidney Diet (raw frozen) Any other raw food diet you may find locally made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients in a biologically appropriate ratio for dogs that does not use synthetic vitamins or other additives. Pre-Mixes for Dogs Pros Are an easy way to provide whole food nutrients to your dog without all the preparation of a home-prepared diet. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics and extra nutrients and antioxidants. If you aren't going to feed a prepared raw food diet or make a home-prepared diet then this is a good choice. Allows you to use the meat that is best for your dog so you can customize the diet for any special needs your animal may have. Also allows you to provide the meat raw, lightly browned or cooked. These diets are typically dehydrated at lower temperatures when compared to the higher temperature processing of kibble and canned diets so more nutrient content of the food is preserved. Because this is whole food it helps maintain healthier gastric hydrochloric acid levels for better digestion when compared to processed pet foods. Are easily rehydrated so they provide appropriate moisture content for all animals but especially those with kidney issues. Nutrients may be more easily digested by older or debilitated animals because the dehydration process does begin to break down the food. Cons Since you have to feed the ingredients that are included in the diet, this does not allow you the full customization of a home-prepared diet, though you can select the protein source. Most include the addition of a blend of synthetic vitamins and isolated minerals which we usually try to avoid when possible as we prefer to get nutrients from whole foods. GOOD Pre-Mixes for Dogs Dr. Harvey's Raw Vibrance Cooked Whole Food Diets for Dogs Pros Feature whole food nutrients, usually in the form of a biologically appropriate ratio for dogs. We do not recommend those “complete” diets with added synthetic vitamins and minerals. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics, various nutrients and antioxidants. Nutrients are in a form easily recognized and utilized by the body Maintains healthy gastric hydrochloric acid levels for proper digestion Generally do not contain too many high-glycemic carbohydrates so animals fed these diets usually maintain a healthy weight and avoid disease related to fluctuating blood sugar levels Generally provide appropriate moisture content for all animals but especially those with kidney issues. Some animals just don't do well on raw food for various reasons. Nutrients in cooked foods may be more easily digested by older or debilitated animals because the cooking process does begin to break down the food making it easier to digest for some animals. Cons Proteins may be denatured which means they will be altered from their raw form to some degree. Since canines have evolved on a diet of raw food the effects of this are hotly debated. Some nutrients are damaged in the cooking process such as certain vitamins, enzymes and beneficial bacteria. Using our Daily Multi Plus can help with this issue. Using an enzyme formula is important because cooking destroys digestive enzymes. BEST Cooked Food Diets for Dogs Evermore Pet Food (www.evermorepetfood.com) – superior sourcing of ingredients GOOD Cooked Food Diets for Dogs All Provide – Dr Judy Morgans food is called Pup loaf which is the better option available through All Provide’s website. Emma Lou’s – pressure cook in small batches which retains more of the natural nutrients Milk Pet Foods – no synthetic vitamins. Raised Right Dehydrated Diets for Dogs Pros Maintain a better, less processed nutrient content than kibble or canned diets. Easier to digest than kibble pet foods. Reconstitutes (absorbs water) better than freeze-dried foods. Cons They are still processed (the meat can be heated to 170 degrees or more) although less so that kibble and canned diets. Air-dreid varieties we have listed od not use heat for drying so are good choices They are not “like raw” as some marketing has indicated. Many use synthetic vitamins and isolated minerals. One that we know of sources all ingredients from China (we do not sell this food), so research the company thoroughly beforehand. Using an enzyme formula is important because heating destroys digestive enzymes. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics and extra nutrients and antioxidants. GOOD Dehydrated Diets for Dogs Raw Bistro Amore (air dried) – no synthetic vitamins Sundays (air dried) – no synthetic vitamins The New Zealand Natural Pet food Company(air dried) – “Woof” Kibble Diets for Dogs Pros Convenience Cons Moisture content is very low - 5% compared to 75% for raw diets! Usually low in protein and high in carbohydrates. The opposite of what dogs need to thrive. Often use proteins with a low Biological Value (meaning they are not as easily utilized by the body and/or don't provide the optimal ratio of essential amino acids) Have been found to be very high in the herbicide glyphosate. The vast majorities don’t use human quality ingredients and many utilize Four-D animals. Processed food diets no longer contain digestive enzymes and naturally occurring beneficial bacteria and other important nutrients because of the high heat used. Supermarket quality foods are high in grains and other fillers. Many grain free diets must use starches, such as potato, as a binder, that is a high glycemic carbohydrate and some animals may have difficulty digesting it properly. Using an enzyme formula is important because cooking destroys digestive enzymes. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics and extra nutrients and antioxidants. Recommended Kibble Diets for Dogs We are not comfortable making recommendations for kibble diets as we don't feel even the better kibble diets are a good choice to feed a dog. However, you can take a look at the two foods below. Open Farm appears to source their ingredients better than others and Nature's Logic relies on whole foods as opposed to synthetic vitamins for the nutrition in their dog food. Open Farm - (https://www.openfarmpet.com/) Nature's Logic - (https://www.natureslogic.com/) Canned Diets for Dogs Pros Convenience High-quality, meat-based, canned diets are an alternative for consumers that don’t wish to feed a raw food diet because of the higher moisture content found in canned diets compared to kibble. Cons Most commercial brands are grain-based and low in meat content. Many metal can liners contain hormone-disruptor bisphenol A (BPA). The vast majorities don’t use human quality ingredients and are made with Four-D animals. Processed food diets no longer contain digestive enzymes and naturally occurring beneficial bacteria and other important nutrients because of the high heat used. Many contain fillers and soy based palatability enhancers (MSG). Many are going to contain synthetic vitamins. Using an enzyme formula is important because cooking destroys digestive enzymes. If you like, add a high-quality, whole food vitamin supplement such as our Daily Multi Plus to provide your dog's daily needs of enzymes, probiotics and extra nutrients and antioxidants. GOOD Canned Diets for Dogs There are so many out there. Select the canned foods with the highest meat content, least amount of fillers, no synthetic vitamins (when possible) and all, or the majority of, the nutrition comes from whole food sources. If they are packaged in BPA-free cans then all the better. K9 Naturals (www.k9natural.co.) ZiwiPeak (www.ziwipets.com) Nature's Logic (www.natureslogic.com) Freeze Dried Diets for Dogs Pros Freeze drying can retain important nutrients close to their original nutritional state and offer storage convenience since they do not need to be kept in the freezer. Cons Because the freeze-drying process draws so much water out of cells these diets are extremely dry, much more so than even kibble or dehydrated diets. They also do not rehydrate well so even if you mix in water the food will fail to thoroughly absorb the moisture all the way through. This can lead to chronic, low level dehydration (because the added water more quickly leaves the body as it remains separate from the food) which can contribute to kidney damage and nutrient malabsorption. REMEMBER it is not true that these foods can just be placed in a bowl and fed dry! If you choose to feed a freeze-dried diet we recommend that you put it through a blender or food processor with water to insure thorough rehydrating prior to feeding. Many of the companies under Raw Food Diets for Dogs above also make freeze-dried diets.

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Dogs
Nutrition

Are you Over-Vaccinating Your Dog or Cat?

We have compiled the following information for the benefit of your animals. Vaccinations are a sign of the times, and even though evidence has been mounting as to the very real potential for adverse reactions to many vaccinations, the number and frequency of vaccinations seems to be growing. However, among a more educated, or knowledgeable, section of our society we are viewing the growing pressure to vaccinate for more and more potential threats, and the pressure to subject animals to constant booster vaccines as a real concern. We recommend you view the video below. This vet is very passionate about what he views as a very serious issue. Just to be perfectly clear: we are not "anti-vaccine". The "core" vaccinations that include rabies, distemper and parvovirus offer protection against diseases that are prevalent in the environment and are potentially life-threatening. We are "anti" vaccine abuse that is a result of greed, fear or ignorance, but in the end winds up with an animal receiving repeated booster shots and/or unnecessary vaccinations that endangers the health of the animal receiving them. Dogs and cats can become very sick and potentially die from vaccinations (consider autoimmune reactions like IMHA), we see it most every day in our business. So if you decide to get your animal a vaccination make sure you weigh the benefits with the potential for side-effects that can sometimes be very serious. To make a decision on what is best for your animals you have to be educated, not with fear, but with facts. There is a very powerful influence in our society that pushes the use of vaccinations, and profits enormously from their use, and in addition, I might add, the resulting reactions. But because it is scary to "buck" the system, we can't fault people for being afraid. But we can educate you and help you to make the right decision for your beloved pet. Dr. Dee Blanco, D.V.M - "You take healthy animals and often very quickly after you vaccinate, you can see simple things like itching of the skin or excessive licking of the paws, sometimes even with no eruptions and licking of the air. We see a lot of epilepsy/seizure, often after a rabies vaccination. Or dogs or cats can become aggressive for several days. Frequently, you'll see urinary tract infections in cats, often within three months after their [annual] vaccination. If you step back, open your mind and heart, you'll start to see patterns of illness post-vaccination." Dr. Christina Chambreau, DVM - "Routine vaccinations are probably the worst thing that we do for our animals. They cause all types of illnesses but not directly to where we would relate them definitely to be caused by the vaccine. Repeating vaccinations on a yearly basis undermines the whole energetic well-being of our animals. Animals do not seem to be decimated by one or two vaccines when they are young and veterinary immunologists tell us that viral vaccines need only be given once or twice in an animal's life. First, there is no need for annual vaccinations and, second, they definitely cause chronic disease. As a homeopath, it is almost impossible to cure an animal without first addressing the problems that vaccines have caused to the animal, no matter what the species." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association - Adverse events diagnosed within three days of vaccine administration in dogs - A study of more than 2,000 cats and dogs in the United Kingdom by Canine Health Concern showed a 1 in 10 risk of adverse reactions from vaccines. This contradicts what the vaccine manufacturers report for rates of adverse reactions, which is “less than 15 adverse reactions in 100,000 animals vaccinated (0.015 percent). Additionally, adverse reactions of small breeds are 10 times higher than large breeds, suggesting standard vaccine doses are too high for smaller animals. Every day more information is being published advising against the over-vaccination of our beloved animals. However, conventional vets across the country continue to advise their clients that vaccinations are absolutely necessary and safe; that not giving them is putting their animals in harms way. Some vets even go so far as to tell their clients their loving companions will die without them. So, what is a loving and responsible guardian supposed to do? Who do you believe? How much is too much? Which vaccines are really needed? Which ones are actually required by law? The answers begin with guardians gathering information, learning how to find the truth in all the hype, not being intimidated by those thought to be in authority, and taking responsibility for an informed final decision. The intention of this handout is to give you truthful information and resources to be sure you are making the right decision for you and your animals. Here are a few things to consider: 1. Most vets agree, even in the holistic community, that initial puppy shots are helpful, and do protect your animals against certain conditions. However, once the animal is a year old additional vaccines should not be necessary. Rabies is the only exception. In most states this is the only vaccine required by law. More information on this is provided later in this handout. 2. When reviewing suggested vaccines think about your pet’s potential for exposure to this condition. Is it life-threatening? Are there safe and natural treatments should your pet succumb to the condition? Overall, which is the greater risk…the vaccination?... Or the condition? If you decide to vaccinate is the vaccine known to be effective and safe? 3. A strong immune system goes a long way in protecting your pet against many illnesses. Begin early to support your pet’s immune system. 4. “Vaccines should NEVER be given to unhealthy animals. It goes against the recommendations in all vaccine inserts as well as those of virtually all immunologists. Says Dr. Don Hamilton, DVM. 5."Side effects from vaccines include everything from irritating skin allergies, epilepsy, upper respiratory infections, irritable bowl syndromes, auto-immune diseases, excessive licking of the paws, urinary infections, thyroid imbalances, and aggression, to life-threatening cancerous conditions. This can be seen as quickly as 24-48 hours following the injection. However, often times the symptoms might take months or years to present themselves making it harder for the guardian to connect the symptoms to an earlier vaccination." - Catherine O’Driscoll, founder of The Canine Health Concern in the UK, offers an educational program based upon ten years of research on canine healthcare, including the side effects of over-vaccination. 6. Single vaccines, given several weeks apart, are far safer than combined serums all given at the same time. 7. Geographic location plays a part in one’s decisions regarding vaccines. Someone living in a tropical climate such as Florida will have different considerations compared to someone living in the Rocky Mountains. For instance, heartworm and sand fleas would be a serious consideration in Florida, while not a problem in the rocky mountains. One protocol is not necessarily correct for everyone. 8. A strong immune system is your best defense. The holistic approach to caring for an animal is to give the body, mind, and spirit everything it needs to work on its own behalf. The purpose of the immune system is to protect the body against unwanted invaders. Vaccines suppress the immune system making it difficult to fight not only the toxicity of the vaccines, but other environmental toxins and illness invaders the animal may have been exposed to. Suggested Vaccine Schedule for Dogs W. Jean Dodds, DVM, is an internationally recognized authority on thyroid issues in dogs and blood diseases in animals. In the mid-1980's she founded Hemopet, the first nonprofit blood bank for animals. Dr. Dodds is a grantee of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and author of over 150 research publications. Through Hemopet she provides canine blood components and blood-bank supplies throughout North America, consults in clinical pathology, and lectures worldwide. Hemopet provides blood testing to check for vaccine antibodies instead of automatically re-vaccinating companion animals unnecessarily. She has written excellent articles that everyone, especially our veterinarians, should read. The following is her suggested vaccine protocol for dogs: The following vaccine protocol is offered for those dogs where minimal vaccinations are advisable or desirable. The schedule is one I recommend (Dr. Dodds) and should not be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It’s a matter of professional judgment and choice. 9 – 10 weeks of age Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV e.g. Merck Nobivac (Intervet Progard) Puppy DPV 14 – 15 weeks of age Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV 18 weeks of age Parvovirus only, MLV Note: New research states that last puppy parvovirus vaccine should be at 18 weeks old. 20 weeks or older, if allowable by law Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines Mercury-free (thimerosol-free, TF) 1 year old Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV This is an optional booster or titer. If the client intends not to booster after this optional booster or intends to retest titers in another three years, this optional booster at puberty is wise. 1 year old Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines 3-year product if allowable by law; mercury-free (TF) Perform vaccine antibody titers for distemper and parvovirus every three years thereafter, or more often, if desired. Vaccinate for rabies virus according to the law, except where circumstances indicate that a written waiver needs to be obtained from the primary care veterinarian. In that case, a rabies antibody titer can also be performed to accompany the waiver request. Visit The Rabies Challenge Fund for more information. Suggested Vaccine Schedule for Cats Dr. Charles E. Loops is a Homeopathic veterinarian specializing in disease treatment, alternative cancer treatment, and behavioral problems and disorders. The following is his suggested vaccine protocol for cats: 12 weeks Panleukopenia combination (FRCP) If available give vaccine components separately spaced 3-4 weeks apart. 24 weeks Rabies – follow-up vaccines are based on the legal requirements of your state. Dr. Loops says, “Risk of Exposure should be the main guideline for consideration of whether to vaccinate and what to vaccinate against. If your cats are indoor only, or if your dogs' outside activities are on a leash or within a fenced area under supervision, there is little risk. The other considerations for a vaccine's use are its proven safety, its effectiveness, and whether the disease is so serious or life-threatening that vaccinating is necessary. Remember, VACCINES ARE NOT HARMLESS. Only vaccinate if the threat is real.” What About Yearly Boosters and Vaccines Not Listed On The Above Protocols? The only vaccine that is required by law is rabies. Check the legal requirements in your area for frequency (ie., every one or three years). More and more studies show that early vaccines provide long-term immunity to distemper, parvovirus, panleukopenia, and other diseases. Dr. Schultz, professor and chair of pathobiological sciences at School of Veterinary Medicine University of Wisconsin has been studying the effectiveness of canine vaccines since the 1970’s. He’s learned that immunity can last as long as a dog’s lifetime. A simple blood test (known as a titer test) will show how much protection your animal still has against a given disease. Imagine the overload animals are getting by receiving unnecessary boosters every year. Vaccines for Lyme Disease, common viral infections, Bordetella (kennel cough), and Adenovirus -1 are not recommended. Many dogs have become symptomatic after receiving the Lyme vaccine. There is no clear evidence that this vaccine works. Vaccines to prevent common viral infections are usually not recommended because a dog's immune system reaction is normally sufficient protection. Puppies over 6 weeks old are immune whether vaccinated or not. Bordetella is similar to the common cold. If a dog’s immune system is strong it’s unlikely it will be a problem. If a dog should come down with Bordetella there are a variety of natural remedies that will support the immune system, and it is not a life-threatening condition. Dr. Jean Dodds feels that Adenovirus, also known as Canine Hepatitis, is rarely seen today and is treatable with early intervention. The Adenovirus-1 vaccine can cause a clouding of the cornea. Amputations and Vaccines Many veterinarians have changed their protocol on what part of the body to administer vaccines on animals. For years it has been common to give the injection on the back of the neck, between the shoulders. Because so many animals have developed sarcomas at the injection site practitioners are now injecting on the leg. The thinking being that the leg can be amputated should a sarcoma develop, saving the life of the animal. Rabies Vaccines vs. State Laws The Rabies vaccine is the only vaccine required by law. In most states it is required every three years for dogs and every year for cats. Even though a titer test will show that an animal is completed protected against this condition the titer is not recognized by law. Until the law is changed we are all forced to over-vaccinate our animals putting them at serious risk. World-renowned vaccine research scientist and practicing veterinarian, Dr. W. Jean Dodds of California, and pet vaccine disclosure advocate, Kris L. Christine of Maine, have established The Rabies Challenge Fund to raise money to fund a 7 year rabies vaccine challenge study in the United States. In addition to the challenge study, the fund will finance a study of the adjuvants used in veterinary rabies vaccines and establish a rabies vaccine adverse reaction reporting system. Anyone interested in donating money to support this study should send their contribution to: Hemopet, 11561 Salinaz Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92841. It is also suggested that you contact your local representatives to get the ball rolling in your own community in an effort to change the laws and protect your pets. What If My Pets Have Already Been Over-Vaccinated? The level of damage done by vaccines varies from animal to animal. Many animals have been able to regain their health by eating a whole food diet, taking proper supplementation, and experiencing sufficient detoxification. The staff at The Pet Health and Nutrition Center can help you design a protocol that’s right for your pet. Be an Informed Guardian for Your Pets The ultimate goal of pet lovers around the world is to have a deep and loving relationship with a happy, healthy, and long-lived animal. One way to achieve this goal is to be an informed and responsible caregiver. Be the best voice you can be on behalf of your beloved animal companions. Some information has been reproduced with permission from www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com

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