Archive for July, 2009



Dog’s with Cancer – How Nutritional Support can Increase Their Lifespan

Friday 24 July 2009 @ 5:54 pm
by Helga Schmitt

Many people have for years suspected that nutrients play a key role in our prevention, control and treatment of malignancies in dogs. Now, it is finally accepted by experts and scientists that it is not folklore but a truth. Experts are optimistic that nutrients can be effective measures in preventing and treating certain types of cancers.

Traditional therapies such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and biologic responsive modifiers, can be combined with micro nutrients. Working in combination they are highly effective. An adjuvant therapy is the combining of any nutrient with other forms of anticancer therapies.

An extremely important metabolic consequence of cancer is Cachexia. This causes a continual decline in weight despite all of the nutritional requirements being met. Unfortunately, any dog that is inflicted with this condition has a shortened survival time and a decreased response to treatment. Metabolic changes of Cachexia have already taken effect in the dog before the condition is diagnosed.

There are three phases of cancer cachexia. The first is silent and the dog does not exhibit any outward signs of the disease but the biochemical changes and alterations in amino acids are present. During the second phase the dog will start to lose weight, appear anorexic and lethargic. In the third phase, the dog has marked debilitation, weakness and is losing carbohydrate and protein stores in the body.

Unfortunately, the physical effects of the cancer and the alterations in the metabolism, cause these dogs to waste away. It is the carbohydrate metabolism in these dogs with cancer, that has the greatest metabolic impact. Some scientists believe that a diet high in simple carbohydrates increases the amount of lactate produced. This excessive energy is then used by the host to convert the lactate. This is damaging for dogs with cancer.

The cancer is fueled by the carbohydrates at the expense of the host. Tumors usually utilize amino acids for energy via glycogens. Many important bodily functions become altered from this. The most significantly affected is the immune system, gastrointestinal function and surgical healing.

The host and the cancer cells both compete for the amino acids. If the diet cannot supply the need, the malignant process takes them from the host. High quality amounts of proteins should be provided. Amino acids like arginine and glutamine really benefit the host by helping the immune system and reducing gastrointestinal toxicity for dogs with cancer.

Much of the weight loss that occurs in cancer cachexia is from the wasting of fat. Diets that are high in fat and low in simple carbohydrates can benefit animals with cancer. N-3 fatty acids have shown to reduce many metabolic alterations in the dog with cancer. These fatty acids have an anticancer effect and reduce the adverse effects associated with radiation.

Every dog is different in their genetic make-up. So every dog that has cancer needs to be assessed individually for the appropriate type and amount of nutrients which they should receive. It has been determined that Retinoids have the ability to regulate cancer cells. In the treatment of various types of malignancies, studies have shown that these work well in combination with other agents or by themselves.

For treating certain cancers, Vitamin C has got the most potential. As an alternative for overcoming drug resistance in various cancer cells, Vitamin C is the choice. This is also the Vitamin given for preventing cancer of the stomach and the esophagus.

One of the great capabilities of Vitamin E is its tendency to block mammary tumors and colon cancer. In the makeup of Vitamin E, it has chemo-preventative properties which work against various malignancies. In studies that were done on dogs, it was shown that some had a complete remission in cancer and others had a 50% reduction in tumor size.

Also suggested as chemo-preventive or anticancer agents are the minerals; copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, lead, iron, potassium, sodium, arsenic, iodine, germanium and selenium. In addition to these, numerous amino acids have been used for inhibiting tumor growth.

Another helpful enzyme is L-asparaginase. This has been used in treating lymphomas and leukemia in dogs. Another anticancer alternative is garlic extracts. This has been used on animals that have been subjected to carcinogens.

Feeding your dog a holistic diet of fresh foods and supplements, avoiding preservatives, additives and chemicals, will support the body and reduce their chances of getting cancer as well as reduce the impact if they do get it. Add anticancer herbs like green tea and turmeric to their foods daily.

Recognize the signs of cancer: a fussy appetite, lumps and bumps, weight loss, sores that won’t heal, odors, lethargy, difficulty breathing, stiffness or soreness, loss of enthusiasm, difficulty urinating or defecating, and persistent discharges.

It is very important to greatly reduce the carbohydrates in the diet and to increase with fats and proteins. The best fats to add are fish oil (preferably salmon) and cold pressed flax oil. Some anticancer foods are beetroot, broccoli, parsley, berries, apples, pears, peaches, plums, cabbage, sage, garlic, yams, cauliflower, shitake mushrooms, green and orange vegetables, yogurt, fish, carrots, watermelon, spleen, fresh thymus and extracts. Feed approximately 60% meat and 40% vegetables.

Supplement the dogs diet with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Co enzyme Q10, Omega-3 fatty acids, and digestive enzymes. All anticancer diets are from fresh foods or home cooked foods. Good nutrition is extremely important in anticancer diets. You can dramatically increase the lifespan of your dog by feeding them a top quality diet. Thy food is thy medicine.

About the Author:




Did You Say Food?

Friday 24 July 2009 @ 8:09 am
by Kathy Davison

You would need to be living in outer Mongolia to not have seen all the articles about Commercial dog food. This information is what is turning dog owners to natural feeding.

There are numerous articles and research studies showing the toxic effects of what we feed our dogs and the result of all this information is that many dog owners have taken a serious look at what they presently feed their dogs and have moved to a more natural diet.

Deciding to go natural is the easy part but you need to make sure you have an easy and convenient source of food.

You will be able to get most of the food you need from a supermarket. If you have a local butcher at hand that would be even better. Going organic is good but it may be too costly.

When you get started with a natural diet make sure you take these precautions

1. Worm your dog every two months after the initial puppy worming.

2. Place all bowls and utensils into boiling water after normal washing

3. Clean the ground outside after bone eating and remove all shards of bone

4. Keep all raw food seperate from other food.

5. Store the food in plastic containers while it is defrosting.

6. keep an eye on the puppy when he is eating bones untill he has got used to it.

7. Wash your hands before and after preparing raw meats.

As the dogs canine teeth are not used from grinding bone then you will have to clean with with a brush or cloth once weekly.

Large dogs try to eat Chicken wings whole in one lump.You can stop this by holding the food as they eat but perhaps it is better and easier to feed them the larger chicken frames.

Read as much as you can about natural feeding. As you start to research online you will find alot of information that will confirm in your mind that you are doing the right thing.

By feeding your dog naturally you will add years to his life.

About the Author:




5 Questions For The In Home Dog Training Candidate

Friday 24 July 2009 @ 7:54 am
by Geraldine Dimarco

How many chewed up shoes do you have in your closet? Do you constantly have to spot check your home for little souvenirs your dog might have left over for you to clean? Thats not a lot of fun now is it? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired with your dogs manners then maybe its time to get some dog training in to his life.

Owners who want to personally train their dogs but cannot do so for whatever reason, are beginning to appreciate the mighty services of trainers who are hired to teach your pet. These professionals (either individuals or company connected) train your dogs for you while you sit back and watch the progress from the comfort of your very own home. Yes, in home dog training is the answer but what are the questions? Here are the five important things you need to ask before launching into the world of canine home education.

At what level of obedience is your dog? If your canine is already moderately well-mannered, this means that you have been at least a little bit successful in dog training. You may want to continue in this. However, if you believe you are not qualified to teach him anything, then you should call in the experts as soon as you can.

Where can I look for the excellent trainers? The good trainers are known by the dogs they have handled. Ask your family,friends, or neighbors if they have had experience with these professionals. Search through the internet and yellow pages for the services of a company or individual that comes highly recommended by canine organizations or blogs and forums. Inquire on their fees and set an appointment with one that seems to give you the best value for your dollars.

What are the qualities of a good trainer? The most important of all is his manner of teaching and handling the dog. There should be no kicking, yelling, rough handling at all in his part. You are putting your pet in his hands so it is your right to ask for records and referrals he should have which you can check for yourself. While no official government licenses are available for animal training are available; veterinary/animal schools give certification to graduates who have taken the necessary courses to be professional trainers. The International Association of Canine Professional offer CDT and CDTA certification, if your trainer has this then chances are he is well equipped to teach canines.

Should I enroll him in individual or group classes? Naturally, if you can afford it a one-on-one session between dog and trainer will help the animal learn faster because he has the full attention of the trainer. However, if you have enrolled him in a group class”it can work out well also. Your pet will have a chance to develop his social skills”an important aspect of dog training as a whole. An experienced professional can effectively customize his teaching to suit each dogs educational need. If you do opt for group classes, form one with dogs that you know are well taken cared of. These canines will be playing and roughing it out with each other often and you want to avoid any situation where fleas and infections can take place.

What age should I start training my dog? Right now! Of course, the most optimal time would before 8 weeks old but adult dogs can still definitely learn their sits and roll-overs. Now with in home dog training”a simple and convenient way to a trained dog can be a reality to you.

About the Author:




Excellent Puppy Potty Training Tips

Thursday 23 July 2009 @ 9:36 am
by Geraldine Dimarco

Bringing home a new puppy is one of the best things ever. Everyone is excited, cooing and crowding around the little fur ball. Then the romance begins to die down after a few weeks, people start getting busy again. You’ve guessed correctly, it’s time for puppy potty training to commence

This special time will also be the beginning of many unique bonding moments you will share with your furry friend. Sure, potty training can sometimes be inconvenient, but it is small change compared to years of cleaning up the surprises your dog will leave in the future. Here are some puppy training tips to help you and your home stay poop free.

Recognize your puppy’s limitations. They will not be able to control their bodily functions quite as well yet so do not serve them their meals right before their sleeping time. In the beginning, you will have to wake up in the night to bring your puppy out to relieve himself. You’ll be a little cranky and impatient but do not rush the dog if he’s not yet ready. At this point, it is important to instill in him good habits that he will carry his whole life.

Have a schedule for their meal times daily and do not vary from it as much as possible. His body needs to be accustomed to a certain pattern of eating and eliminating. Take him outdoors to discharge early in the morning and late at night. After meals, bring him to his designated potty place to do his business. Keep repeating a phrase the puppy will associate with toilet activities like ‘go potty’ until he does.

Immediately after successfully eliminating, reward the puppy with enthusiastic accolades and a treat. Play with him for a few minutes before walking back indoors. The puppy should realize that ‘going potty’ at that particular spot was a pleasant and satisfying experience for him. After an hour go back to the spot and wait to see if he wants to do it a second time. Establishing good habits is the most important thing in puppy potty training.

After setting a pattern of toilet practices he is learning to follow, you can now teach him how to ask to go outside. No, not audibly with words but with a bell. Tie a rope by the door with a bell dangling at the end of it. Give the bell a light push and say ‘go potty’ loudly for the puppy to hear on your way out for your special walks. After two weeks of doing this consistently, say ‘go potty’ by the door but don’t do anything. If all goes well the dog will nudge the bell himself and when he does, be sure to praise him well. If he doesn’t understand fully yet, gently guide him to move the bell and say ‘go potty’.

Keep doing this after meal times and each time you feel your puppy needs to go out and do his thing. He will understand after a while what you want him to do. Give him plenty of attention and play time when he does. Before long, your puppy will be tapping the bell or scratching the door on his own when he needs to unload.

That wasn’t too hard was it? When done correctly and consistently, these puppy training tips should have a well-mannered dog to show for itself. Now on to the next puppy adventure!

About the Author:




Do You Know The Importance Of House Training A Puppy?

Thursday 23 July 2009 @ 9:03 am
by Alex Pendry

As a society there are over a million puppies that are adopted each and every year; when we bring a new puppy into our homes most of us do not realize how quickly they will grow into adult dogs. In fact; most of us do not realize that they are just puppies for a very short while before we have an adult dog in our home.

If you have gotten a new canine friend for your home and are wondering what the importance of house training a puppy is; then you have come to the right place. Every pet owner should be concerned with house training a puppy so that they can teach puppy obedience and raise the best behaved dog possible.

House breaking a puppy is extremely vital if you want to make this the best experience possible. Your new pup is looking to you to implement rules and guidelines that she needs to be able to grow up strong and healthy.

Most pet owners who do not take the time to implement the proper puppy obedience training when they get a puppy; realize that their dog becomes uncontrollable. They begin to notice all types of dog behavioral problems that they could have prevented had they done the proper training.

People who neglect this training eventually face the harsh reality of dealing with a dog who has issues such as; aggressive dog behavior, anxiety separation issues and so much more. Therefore if you want to avoid these behavioral issues; you have to begin properly training your pup.

As pet owners we all want to live with obedient dogs that are healthy and willing to listen to our commands; that is why it is so vital that we all begin discover how important house training a puppy can be. Stop by our site below and discover how easy it can be for every pet owner to raise a healthy new puppy and help them grow into an obedient dog.

About the Author:




Next Posts »» «« Previous Posts