How Pets Benefit From Holistic Medicine

Our pets mean the world to us and so we want the best for them because they are a part of our family. We provide love, shelter and food in order for them to live a long and happy life with us. Unfortunately either out of necessity or convenience we have had to alter their diet and lifestyle in ways that do not entirely benefit them.

Before our pets were domesticated they were not exposed to commercial foods which can contain low quality ingredients, chemicals and dyes. Before domestication they received plenty of exercise hunting in the wild. Many of the fresh grasses and herbs they ate (were holistic medicines), chosen from instinct during thousands of years in the wild, which kept them healthy by cleansing their intestinal track of impurities, keeping bacteria or any toxic substances they ate in check.

Health is directly related to diet and lifestyle for us and our pets. An insufficient diet containing inadequate protein with a large quantity of meat-by-products; parts of meat that contain very little meat and what is classified as waste "not fit for human consumption" is generally what is in the product versus the idyllic pet labels which state choice beef cuts, fish and chicken full of vitamins with all the nourishment your pet will ever need to live a long and healthy life?

Rendered (over processed) meat often includes animals that are diseased and cancerous so lots of flavor and vitamins must be added in order to comply with the pet food industry "standards". What happens when our pets are fed a modern processed diet? Many of the same illnesses that plague us have been showing up in our pets.

-diabetes

-inflammation causing joint discomfort

-cancer

-urinary tract problems

-allergies

-kidney failure and many more

Is it any wonder our pet's immune system is not as vigorous as it should be in order to fight off a majority of illnesses? It is very important to maintain a strong immune system in order to sustain our pet's health and vigor. There are ways to help your pet using the holistic approach. These include; a healthy diet and homeopathy along with natural products formulated for your pets specific ailment. Our pets can also benefit from holistic medicines as they also work with conventional medications by lessening the side effects if they must take them due to a chronic or life threatening illness.

Many conditions our pets have can benefit from holistic medicine such as:

-age related conditions (arthritis, energy levels, flatulence, prostate, thyroid)

-chronic conditions (diabetes, cough, urinary tract)

-preventative (liver, blood sugar levels, digestion, parasites)

-behavior and emotional issues (sadness, aggression and stress)

Our pet's shower us with love, attention, and devotion. It has even been proven that our pet's companionship helps to reduce our own blood pressure and even depression. Why shouldn't we give them a healthy life in return?

Discover Natural ways to enhance your pets immune system by visiting Natural Pet Health for more information or Pet Health Alternatives which has a full line of products for pet health.

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How to Stop My Guinea Pigs Getting Sick?

Your guinea pigs need a sound nutritious diet a clean cage and the occasional chance to be able to graze. My pigs get an occasional treat with a short visit to the vegetable patch. They think that's party time.

I line my pigs' cage with a thick pad of the local newspaper on the bottom of the cage and then cover that with pine wood shavings. The paper tends to soak up any fluids and keeps the surface fairly clear. Their bedding area is kept the same way but on top of that there are about ten sheets of crumpled up newspaper which they burrow into and make tunnels in as their sleeping area. The paper tends to keep the chill out as well and I have fun every morning trying to find where they are hiding. The girls tend to stick together whilst the boys tend to have their own individual area. I've noticed the girls tend to trample their newspaper whilst the boys don't but the paper is easily replaced. We're fortunate here because we get two weekly local newspapers delivered free and one has a very thick real estate section ms other is no shortage of newspaper for them. I could always ask a neighbour of I run short.

My guinea pigs go out to a grazing run every day so they are constantly eating fresh grass and dandelion leaves. They seem to have gone off clover at the moment which is a bit of a shame because there is plenty of that about.

My pigs get fed some dried lucerne chaff which has plenty of fibre stalks in and so they get plenty of chewing which helps keep their teeth short plus a selection of fresh vegetables as well. I have four pigs at the moment and none of hem like any of the pre-packed foods. When I tried them on the pre-packed food all they would eat was the greenery or lucerne from it and they just ignored the rest.

You want to encourage your piggies to exercise and some toys will encourage this. They are not like hamsters where they will work with a wheel like a hamster, in fact it's advised that you not try to introduce anything like that. A few places where they can hide is ideal. We have a few pieces of plastic pipe that they can fit into comfortably in their area and they enjoy using those to play in although mine seem to be sleeping most of the time in them.

My guinea pigs have been fit and well all the time that I have had them and I have not noticed any sickness with any of them Have a great time with your piggies.

John Evans is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great information, visit my website.

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A Day in the Life of a Happy Guinea Pig

My name is John Evans and I have been keeping and raising guinea pigs now for over ten years. I have worked out a system where my guinea pigs can remain fit and healthy and live happy lives. I have two cages for the four pigs that I have at present. A divided grazing run where the pigs can graze on the grass during the day. I also have two cages for them to spend their evening and night. The sleeping cage has their bedding area. There is no bedding area in the grazing cage.

The grazing cage is made of a wooden frame with two hinged doors on top at either end. These doors are so that the pigs can be easily caught and removed when they are being moved between cages. Every morning the pigs are removed from their sleeping quarters and moved over to the grazing cage which is placed on fresh grass for the day. The grazing cage is covered in a fine mesh wore so that no wildlife or birds can interfere with the pigs. The top of the cage is covered with shade cloth which allows them to have shade in the bright sun. I have a waterproof cover which covers the majority of the grazing cage if the weather is going to be a little wet. If it is really stormy they spend the day in their overnight cage which has an exercise and feeding area and also their sleeping quarters.

You'd be surprised at how much grass the guinea pigs will eat in a day. I currently have four, two males and two females. The divided cage keeps them apart most of the time although I have found a cross over when the ground has been a little uneven and there has been room enough for a determined young lady to go and visit her beau. Fortunately we have not had any unwanted problems from the unscheduled visits. We have chosen not to breed at the moment. They eat enough that I could move the cage onto fresh ground halfway through the day but I normally supplement their grazing with an apple shared between the four of them.

You can buy two story cages that are open on the ground level allowing your guinea pigs to graze. My grandchildren have one of these cages and they move it around to fresh grass every day. The cage is light enough to be easily carried and moved by two young boys. The ramp from their sleeping quarters down to the grazing area allows their pigs to enjoy their grazing at will. They have access to their sleeping quarters by a ramp which can be secured to prevent them from going down to graze if you choose to. The variety of grazing combined with the security of their sleeping quarters makes for a very happy group of contented guinea pigs.

John Evans is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great guinea pig care information, check out my website.

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Climate Change and Animals

A while back we wrote an interesting article highlighting the effects of climate change on amphibians. I highly recommend that you take a moment to read that article, which you can find the article if you click my username and browse my submitted articles, as it does a great job at investigating the effects on a species that is very in tune and dependant on its environment. But what about the effect of climate change on everything else?

We've heard the stories and press releases for years - holes in the ozone layer, the polar ice caps melting and migration patterns disrupted. The out-of-season weather patterns are also disrupting wildlife. These factors are all compound and have been growing in magnitude for some time. Often, these issues are interlinked, and the wildlife of the world is being affected more and more obviously.

The melting polar ice caps are of particular concern as they broadly affect a number of species that are dependent on the ice plateaus as home and hunting ground. The Arctic circle's ice loss has reached the point where the Northwester Passage has been carved open, with commercial vessels able to navigate the gap; in the past, only specially designed ice-breakers were able to traverse the passage before it froze over again.

This will lead polar bears, and other Arctic animals, to migrate. There is already going to be strain on the areas where they will migrate to, which will impact on all local wildlife. Of course, should the polar bears not manage to migrate then we can expect them to become extinct, as they rely on the pack ice and ice floes to hunt.

The severe changes in weather are having an unusual effect on wildlife as well. In Britain just last week, the out of season heat brought animals out of their pre-programmed hibernate rituals as the trees and plants began to blossom once more. Whilst this doesn't seem like it should be a big problem, now that the weather has turned those same animals can find it hard to readapt now that the time has come to hibernate again.

These weather patterns don't just affect hibernating animals though. Drastic changes in weather can damage crops and kill plant life when the environment changes too much, leaving animals without their necessary foods. This may start at the bottom of the food chain, but if animals lose their food supply, they will migrate or die out, leaving those animals that prey upon them to suffer as well. It is a vicious cycle that has repercussions for the entire hierarchy in the animal kingdom.

Climate change is a very real issue that is already affecting wildlife worldwide, but given enough time it will encompass all walks of life and change the world - we can help the future by starting today and aid in the preservation of those creatures that are being affected already.

Head to our website, http://www.animalfriends.org.uk/ to read more about what we do. For every quote made online we'll donate 50p to an animal charity with the goal of donating a million pound to animal charities by the end of 2012. Keep up to date with all things Animal Friends related on our Feel Good Park Facebook page, where every 'like' we receive we'll donate £1 to an animal welfare charity.

Visit our website for fantastic pet insurance policies.

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Pest and Pets: FAQs About the Dangers of Fleas and Ticks for Your Pets

While the warmer months, known for bringing an onslaught of flea and tick problems, are nearly over, it is still important to protect your pets from pests. After all, being a pet owner comes with a responsibility to keep your dogs, cats and furry or feathered friends healthy and happy. With that in mind, we would like to help clear up any misconceptions regarding the dangers of fleas and ticks for your dogs and cats. Here are nine FAQs sure to help.

1. How do I know if my pet has fleas, before they start incessant scratching? Brush over your pet with a damp white sheet or paper towel. If there are any small dark spots, then you need to take action to get rid of the fleas.

2. Are fleas and ticks no longer a problem when summer ends? No. Lower temperatures do not equal the absence of pests. It is recommended that you still apply flea and tick control products until after extreme winter conditions become common.

3. Can the same flea products be used for both dogs and cats? No. Many of the products designed for dogs are harmful, and even fatal if used on your feline friends.

4. What is the best way to prevent fleas and ticks? Use monthly topicals to protect your pets from discomfort, prevent spreading and avoid possible infestation. Of course, using pest repellants and insecticides, medicated flea collars plus cleaning and fumigating their play areas often will also lower the chances of fleas and ticks.

5. What preventative measures can be taken for outdoor pets? If you have outdoor pets, or bring your pets outside to play, be sure that their area is free of leave piles, brush and tall grass. In addition, brush your pets thoroughly when they come back inside.

6. What problems are caused by fleas and ticks? Ticks transfer Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrilchios, to name a few. Fleas can cause tapeworms, hair loss due to the intense and frequent scratching done by the animal, skin irritation and even anemia in kittens and puppies. It should also be noted that people are susceptible to some of these problems due to being exposed to an animal that is carrying it.

7. I have heard that spot-on flea and tick control products can be dangerous. Is this true? Yes. The EPA released a warning in 2010 alerting pet owners to this fact. Along with the warning, there were marketing changes made requiring better labeling, clearer dosage guidelines and specific restrictions for some of the ingredients.

8. Are there breeds of dogs that are more susceptible to adverse side effects of pest control? Yes. Mixed breeds as well as the Chihuahuas, Shih Tzu, Miniature poodles, Pomeranians, Dachshund, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers and the Bichon Frise have the highest risks.

9. Are there any natural alternatives to medicated pest control items? Yes, there are quite a few options. Here are a few suggestions from the American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association to implement into your pet care routine:

· Fresh garlic and brewer's yeast can be given to dogs and cats to prevent internal and external parasites. Talk to your vet to determine the proper amount for your pet.

· Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, geranium, lemon grass and citronella work great as parasite deterrents. You will also want to talk to your vet to determine the proper dosage.

· Cedar oil can be used to eliminate fleas and ticks from the body of your pet.

· Use shampoos that contain D-limonene, natural citrus extract, as this will help eliminate fleas and ticks.

· Add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your pet's water to help prevent ticks.

· When taking your pets outside, many holistic veterinarians recommend applying eucalyptus and citronella oil to the pet's collar or on a bandana to be worn by the pet. Also, it is not recommended to ever treat cats with a topical natural treatment!

The best way to protect your pets from pest is by being proactive. After all, you want your pets to happy and healthy for a long time. By using these preventatives, you can do just that. If you have more questions or concerns, talk to your vet or contact us here at Sleep Eas...ZZ, we're glad to help!

Mardella Berg
A-1 Pet Care from Sleep EasZZ Pet Care
Raleigh, NC 27615
http://www.sleepeaszz.com/

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Pet Cremation Services - How to Compare Costs

When a pet dies, the grief is just as real as it would be with the loss of any other loved one and, while the steps we go through in our grief may be similar for both, some parts of the burial and cremation process are different to that of having a human cremated. Fortunately, pet cremation services are evolving every year and you have a wide variety of options to consider when you are researching what to do with your beloved family friend after their death.

Decide if you would like your pet to be picked up. When you lose a pet, whether it's sudden or as the result of old age, one of the most difficult decisions you will have to make is whether you would like to handle the body and transport it to the pet funeral home or crematory, or you would like to take advantage of their pet cremation services by allowing them to come pick up your pet's body. It can be an emotional decision and most homes and crematories charge a pick up fee if you elect to have them handle the remains.

Make the choice to have a memorial service or not. Your pet was a part of the family, so there is no reason to feel guilty about wanting a memorial service for them. It can be small or large; that is up to you. There are no rules when it comes to memorial services, but they do cost extra since they are out of the normal pet cremation services spectrum.

Choose between individual and communal cremation. This can be a huge money saver in terms of pet cremation services. Pet funeral homes and crematories typically charge for cremation on a sliding scale based on the size and weight of your pet, meaning you can pay upwards of $400 if you own a giant breed dog. To reduce the cost of your pet's cremation, opt for communal cremation. This is a process in which several pets are cremated at the same time and the ashes are a mixture of several pets. It's an option that is not for everyone, so don't feel pressured to go either way.

Let the funeral home know if you want to watch the cremation. Another extra cost that you may choose to add to your pet cremation services is to view the cremation itself. Many pet funeral homes and crematories are amenable to owners watching their pet being cremated, but they do charge extra for this option.

Purchase an urn that suits your beloved pet. After your pet's cremation, you will be given either a bag or a cardboard box with your pet's ashes. You can opt to purchase a pet urn from the funeral home or crematory, or you can look online for an urn that you think is perfect for your pet's cremains.

Melody Jamali is the Founder and President of (Une Belle Vie), a Colorado company dedicated to bringing choice of cremation to public light. Their company offers the widest selection in decorative urns for cremation and includes a wide collection of resources designed to help families and friends in their time of need. From tool for the grieving to informative articles about planning, support and other uplifting thoughts, Une Belle Vie is a company dedicated to helping your celebrate the life of the one you love - on your terms.

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Dog Vomiting: Causes And Cures

Dog vomiting is quite a natural canine behavior. All dogs do it, and some do it frequently, and for a number of reasons.

So before you grab your car keys to rush the dog off to the vet, stop awhile! In most cases, there is no need for concern. Vomiting is just a natural way in which dogs remove unwanted matter from the body.

Of course, I'm not suggesting that you ignore it completely, because sometimes vomiting does suggest a more serious problem. But you'll need to observe the dog for other symptoms, for example, diarrhea, loss of appetite and general listlessness.

If you notice these symptoms it's time to visit the vet, although most likely it is still nothing to be overly concerned about.

Here are some common reasons why a dog may throw up;

Eating too fast - Many dogs tend to woof their food down, a throw back to the days when they could be attacked while eating. Feeding 3 to 4 smaller meals rather than one large meal may sort out the problem and will also protect against bloat, a potentialy deadly condition.

Consuming Grass - Nobody really knows why dogs eat grass, but many of them seem to love it. Some experts believe they eat grass to induce vomiting, while others say that eating too much grass makes them vomit. Either way, eating grass often makes a dog throw up.

Eating the wrong things - Dogs that are fed on junk food and table scraps, and dogs that make a habit of raiding the trash can, are always likely to throw up. A healthy diet and preventing access to the trash will sort this out straight away.

When should I be concerned?

Although vomiting is usually nothing to worry about, it should also not be ignored. The first thing you should be alert to is the frequency. Once in a while is not a problem, once or twice a day, merits a veterinary check up.

Also be alert for the symptoms I mentioned earlier, lethargy, lack of appetite, and diarrhea, as well as other signs, like blood, or unusual coloration in the vomit. In these instances, get the dog to the vet right away.

Vomiting may also be due to a more serious cause, for example your dog may have eaten a household poison, like a pesticide, or even a poisonous plant. If you think this may be the case then immediate veterinary treatment is called for.

How To Prevent Your Dog From Throwing Up

If you have a dog that throws up on a regular basis, there are a number of commonsense measures that you can put in place to reduce it.

Start by feeding your dog a healthy diet. Cut out all table scraps and junk foods and ensure that your dog cannot get into the trashcan. Feed your dog more frequent, smaller meals and add a fibre suppliment, so the dog is less inclined to eat grass.

These steps should be enough to reduce dog vomiting, but if not, it is advisable to speak to your vet.

For more advice on dog health, including what to do about dog vomiting and dog diarrhea, visit dogsanddogtraining.com

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Pet Health Care - 5 Things To Consider When Insuring Your Pet

Pet insurance is a very important part of pet health care as it protects both your finances and your beloved pet. Here are some important factors to consider when purchasing your pet insurance.

1. Do your research as there are plenty of pet insurance providers out there. By going for a recommended insurance provider you are less likely to experience nasty surprises compared to going for the cheapest option. This could seriously affect the type of coverage you receive in the event of serious pet health care problems, so read the small print before you buy.

2. Another thing to consider is the probability of your pet developing conditions that will require medical care. Perhaps your dog's breed has genetic weaknesses that might affect your dog later in life, or maybe your cat was born with a condition that doesn't bother her now but might lead to related illnesses in the future. Check that the policy you intend to buy covers any of these potential conditions, and do let the insurer know about any previous or existing conditions. If you fail to provide that information there could be a hefty bill for you to pay out.

3. Check that the policy covers ongoing conditions such as diabetes or arthritis as some providers don't offer this as part of their insurance product. You may have to buy lifetime cover in order to secure coverage for this type of condition. There are many common ongoing conditions that pets can suffer from, so it is worth looking into in more detail.

4. Consider the age of your pet. Some insurance providers have age limits on their policies while others provide lifetime coverage. Common age limits for cats are 10 years while it's normally slightly less for dogs (8 years).

5. Ensure that you are aware of the maximum payout for single claims and total annual claims. There are large differences in policies so check that you get most value for your money.

There might be a few lucky pet owners who rarely need to take their pets to the vet, aside from the usual check ups, though most of us will have had some experience with pet health care issues such as ear infections, fractures and other serious illnesses that can't necessarily be foreseen. In the event of injury or accidents it is important to act preventatively and protect your pet in the best possible way.

For specialist information on a range of pet health care issues visit the Pet Health Information website. We offer a wide range of informational articles on pet health care information.

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