[Oleanderz]

Zach M- The toothbrush bristles are moreso firm rather than soft. The smaller (precision) brush head is the softest of the two, but if Ginger’s teeth still hurt with the precision brush I’d go with the finger brush. If all else fails, then I think she might need to schedule an appointment for the primary teeth/gum care doctor. Dogs can’t really express pain as vocally and verbally as we do; they’d just keep it trucking if they can’t fix it themselves. So if something’s down I’d go get her checked out. Good luck!

[crazy4cats]

Hi Kate-
Thanks for popping in. You are right. THK does do a good job of packaging the food to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the box. I opened my last trial box last night. It is Force, a chicken flavor. I mixed 3 heaping TBS on top of my dogs’ kibble and added warm water, stirred it up, let it sit for a few, and then fed it. Wow! No funny looks this time. Either they like this flavor better, or it was because it was something new. Either way, I was glad I didn’t have to “doctor” it up. Their “output” was very good this morning. That’s a good thing as they struggle in that area. I didn’t dissect it or wash it off, but looked at it pretty closely. I’m no stranger to examining poop either. My family is pretty much sick of the subject. Lol!

I’m glad not to have to recycle another can as I go through so many, especially with my fleet cats. I just wish, still that it had a little more meat and it was a little less expensive.
But, great results with the Force flavor so far.

• This reply was modified 10 years, 10 months ago by crazy4cats.

[Kimi_forever]

the oven idea sounds great, i know my uncle uses a smoker to make his jerky and we had thought about getting a smoker ourselves, but the no investment oven idea sounds awesome. ill research it.

bobby, thanks for clearing that up for me. i also like the conveince of the freeze dried treats and i like that unlike meat in my refrigerator they dont go bad so quickly i’ve made the bag of orijen freeze dried i got last a month by giving her one every now and then with her biscuits. i was worried that maybe ideally i shouldnt be feeding her biscuits full of non meat stuff and mostly potato or tapioca but she loves them so much and my dad loves giving them to her, but i think ive got some good ideas for home made ones now and that ill try to use chickpea flour for so it wont be too bad. i also think i did the right thing probably by purchasing the turkey flavor over the lamb or beef as far as protein to fat ratio so i think i’m on the right track. i dont think i have to worry then because my akita is not over weight but thats some good info you gave about how to take care of an overweight animal. i have an over weight cat that i’m worried about and want to improve her diet. we tried some prescription food from the doctor for her i wish we didnt try, i recently read the article on catinfo.org about prescription foods from vets and it made me want to cringe…

[Barbara M]

Hi Michelle. My vet didn’t recommend supplements but I believe in doing my own researcher. Just like our human doctor practice western medicine and will treat you differently than a holistic doctor. So sometimes I do my own thing based on research and a holistic approach.

[Dori]

Cheryl and Kristin. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I agree with every single thing you have both said. It is plain and simple common sense. Throughout my life I have incurred many people that because of their science background (or their spouses) and all the classes they have taken forget that everything is not about the science. We do not live in olden times where if a doctor said something it was manna from heaven. We are modern people living in modern times and know that doctors, as anyone, make mistakes or don’t keep on with modern thinking. It’s common sense. How on earth would anyone who does not only hours and weeks of research, but years and also on going believe that a diet full of corn, fillers, and, excuse me everyone, but crap be good for your animals. Sure, eat it for a little while and it’s not going to kill them. Will they survive, maybe yes maybe no. I do know that you will spend 1/3 of the year taking your dogs back and forth to the vet to the detriment of your animal and your wallet. Your dogs will be put on antibiotics and all sorts of other drugs attempting to combat all the ills that these awful inappropriate feeds have done to your dogs. They will not thrive. All in the name of science. I sadly came to realize years ago that the majority of people have not a lick of common sense. If science is telling you one thing about a dog feed but you can witness with your eyes what it is doing to your dog, what do you believe? The science or what is right in front of your eyes? If you are feeding a quality dog FOOD (not feed), and your dog is thriving, skin great, hair or fur nice and shinny, great breath, no gas, good stools, not yeasty ears, no bladder, kidney, liver issues, no more scratching, etc. etc. will you continue to believe what scientist are telling you or, once again, will you believe what you are witnessing with your very own eyes. Scientists, like a lot of doctors, believe that they are “all that”. They are not. They are no where near being “all that”! They do have enormous egos. Anyway, these are just my opinions and my experiences with, unfortunately, having had dogs on crappy foods (when I was young and didn’t know any better) and now.

[Dori]

Bobby dog. Thanks.

I didn’t doubt that they do at all, I’d like to know why she thinks that they are the only one. Of course vets are going to get something for carry different companies foods in their practices. It’s a business. They are also not going to give up valuable space in their practices out of the goodness of their hearts. Don’t get me wrong, I love the vet practice that I take the girls to. I love all four doctors, all the techs and the front staff is amazing. All have been their for more years than I can remember. Great group. They are by far the most compassionate, kind animal loving group I have ever been to in all the states that I have lived in in my 66 years. It’s the reason I’ve stuck with them for 13 years and counting. BUT…it’s still a business. Anyone that believes that they are not getting some compensation from all the companies they carry, and probably also why they choose the brands of meds they sell, is being naive (sp?). Aimee has always had something against THK, of course, as well as others and I was just being my old curious self. I do know the old saying that “curiosity killed the cat” but I’ve always believed that “satisfaction brought him back”. I’m a New York City gal by birth, we’re nosy, curious, want answers to everything. I usually don’t butt into too much sometimes I’ll just read a post that bugs me especially when I read that THK is the only company that compensates (or the only one she knows about…you know that’s not true). She’s a really smart lady and because of that I believe she knows better.

[pugmomsandy]

Hound and Gatos Pork

houndgatos.com

Grandma Lucy’s Artisan Pork, Venison and Bison, Grandma Lucy’s Pureformance Rabbit and Goat

grandmalucys.com

Great Life Dr E’s Buffalo (has salmon oil) and Pioneer Naturals Pork

doctorsfinest.com

Addiction Perfect Summer Brushtail and Outback Kangaroo, Fig’Licious Venison (dehydrated), canned Black Forest Rabbit, Hunter’s Venison Stew:

https://www.addictionfoods.com/products/dog-formulas/raw-dehydrated/perfect-summer-brushtail

Merrick 96% Pork canned

merrickpetcare.com

Tucker’s Pork and Bison (raw)

tuckersbones.com

Bravo Blend Pork, Bravo Boneless Bison and Venison, Bravo Basics Rabbit

http://www.bravorawdiet.com/dog_frozen_blends_pork.html

• This reply was modified 10 years, 11 months ago by pugmomsandy.
• This reply was modified 10 years, 11 months ago by pugmomsandy.

[Charlotte P]

My boy Leo woke me up with incessant scratching to his right ear this morning, then kept his head cocked to the side while on our morning walk. I looked inside and was shocked to see so much blood. I took him to the vet and she said it only looked irritated, confirming it was the scratching that caused the bleeding, perhaps an allergy, and gave us some ointment. She was about to send us on our way when she asked if I’d like his anal glands expressed since he’d had an issue before. Sure. The right sac was blocked so she had me leave him for sedation and saline injection to break up the matter. Hours later, I’m told it’s completely blocked with too-thick contents and she wants to slice a new opening and insert a drain as she’s afraid it may further expand and rupture. It’s been a LONG and expensive day. My poor Leo. I realize he will need to have at least that right sac removed in the very near future. My late dog, Jake, had both removed and never had another problem. I asked if the ears and anal glands have a systemic connection, she brightened and said there was in fact a doctor who did a study. I don’t know if this is the doctor who did the study, but it’s the info I was looking for and I’m sure it will help a lot of other people looking for answers.

“Atopy and Anal Sac Disease Are the Same”
http://dogandcatsurgerywellnessclinic.vetsourcecms.com/analglands/

Anal Sac Disease is in the dermatological category:
http://penfieldvet.com/dermatological.php

And then there’s manual trauma:

“Vets and Groomers, Be Aware of Pet Anal Gland Problems”
(Unnecessary Trauma Through Recurrent Expression of the Anal Glands)
http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2009/12/23/your-pets-anal-glands.aspx

…Which leads me to wonder if anal gland trauma (clogged “trash-bin”) actually causes atopy.

• This reply was modified 10 years, 12 months ago by Charlotte P.

[bill c]

Susan, everything you just wrote can be applied–literally–to what I face (and have conducted seminars about) in terms of human nutrition and doctors.

I feel like a putz not making the same connection for canines.

Thanks for the slap!
🙂

[Karen J]

Yeah, I use enzymes, she never goes in the same place but I do use enzymes. She was spayed at 4 months I believe, she had the stitches when I got her from the rescue. The vet is looking into incontinence. It’s not often but it seemed like the new diet, no grain etc was doing the trick but now not always. I have house guests and it’s been pretty stressful. When I work I’m gone for too long to crate her and I close an number of doors in the house so she doesn’t have free run.

She doesn’t appear to have the struvite crystals or an infection but waiting for the other test to come back. She always used the doggie door until this started a few months ago. Her PH level is lower than the doctor likes, so I’m trying things like adding low sodium chicken broth to one of her filtered waters to see if she will be better hydrated.

Thanks for your input.

[tecknik]

What some don’t realize is that your dog’s allergies may not be food related. That turned out to be the case for my dog. Here I was trying all different food concoctions, then the useless Dinovite and it turns out my dog has many environmental allergies including Wool, willow, dust mites, mold mites and about 20 other things.
I’ve always had her on a raw diet (Abady) which is helpful and keeps her coat nice and shiny. (less poop as well due to minimal carbs, too) I also add unrefined coconut oil for more nutrients as well as a good dog vitamin.
As for dog treats, I buy $3.99lb london broils or stew beef then grill it medium rare, then cut into bite size pieces. I will buy in bulk and freeze the remaining. It’s a little work but not that much and if you look at the ounces of a bag of good dog treats, you will find that you are paying over $10 a pound! (usually $4 to $5 for a 6oz bag of treats) It’s the best type of treat to give your dog and you know exactly what is in it.
For my dog’s treatment, we first had the allergy testing done. Yes, it is expensive and thank God I have insurance so I get reimbursed. ($500 because dog has to have anesthesia)
Second step was to remove as many of her allergens as possible from the environment. That meant giving up my two brand new wool carpets. :/ Now I clean an extra day a week as well to ensure there is no dust.
Third step was medication to cure her symptoms. She had ear infections, yeast infections and sores from all the scratching. The doctor prescribed a slew of medicines including prednisone which really stopped her scratching. Unfortunately, this can not be used long term because it can be harmful to the liver and other organs.
Fourth step (and this is where we are now) Allergy shots. It started every other day and now we are at once a week. The scratching is down to a minimal and hopefully over time her immune system will work against her allergies and she will be a happy dog for good.

[Susan]

Hi Akari, she may need a course of Metronidazole for 2 weeks, Metroniazole is an antibiotic for the bowel this kills the bacteria she may have in her bowel that is causing the diarrhea, also Tylan alot of dogs with IBD take Tylan powder, apparently you can buy Tylan powder online or anywhere in America, this also helps with diarrhea, You’d have to google how much her dose would be given with food as it taste awful, Maybe stop the can & see how she goes.. Patch cannot eat can wet foods fat % is tooo high, Im trying the new Hills i/d low fat restore wet.. but I’d say she needs some antiboitics & after the metronidazole a good dog probiotic, can a vet or Doctor write you a script for Metronidazole it only cost me $9 from chemist..

[Cynthia R]

At one time you could have your traditional vet run titers, and send the results to Dr. Dodds for consultation. I’m not sure if she offers the service now.
Sadly, I just lost a dog to cancer, but I was taking him to one of the top University Veterinary teaching schools/hospital for chemo treatment. The chief of oncology told me that my boy could never have another vaccination as long as he lived. I asked about rabies, and the doctor told me not to worry, that she would give him a medical excuse to abide by our state law. She told me that she and the staff were vaccinated for rabies, and they run titers on themselves all the time. She said her vaccine has lasted a very long time. My point is…if the University doctors test themselves through titers, I would think they are reliable. Honestly, I think some vets really need to go back to school!!!

[Lance B]

Hello,

My Dane is 15 weeks old and is being fed this food:
http://www.doctorsfinest.com/Healthy_Chicken_dog_food_p/dr%20es-gfb.htm

I know the feeding instructions say up to 1.5 cups per day since he’s <50 lbs, but I thought he might need to be eating more given his caloric needs. For what it’s worth, I’ve been feeding 2 cups of this food per day (previously, he was on Nutrisource Large Breed Puppy and was being fed about 4 cups a day before I swapped to this food on account of diarrhea).

[Susan]

Hi Jakes mom, the only thing I can think of is to hide the insulin pen in the middle of ur palm going up ur palm & act normal then when he’s looking else where or chewing on a toy or sleeping, calmly pat him, then just do it very quickly so he just feels a little pick, then quickly hide the insulin pen & act as if nothing has just happened, dont make a big deal when its time for his injection… My daughter just had a baby & she had diabetes the last 2months of her pregnency & she too didn’t want the injection & choose the tablets first but they weren’t working, so doctor said she’ll have to use injection pen & she was surprised, she said she didnt really fell the prick, these new insulin pens are different to the olden days….some dogs make a big fuss, like my rescue boy if he see the nail clipers he runs, hides, snaps at me, so someone must of hurt him when they trimmed his nails… I call him a big sooky baby, so when he’s sleeping at night, I get the nail clippers out hide them under my leg, then start to pat him around his paw then get the 1 nail that always grows & curls then quickly cut it, then he wakes up, jumps off the bed looking down at his paw & I show him, look there’s ur nail, he looks at his paw & realises he still has his paw & I haven’t chopped it off, the big baby…. LOL

[H&N]

Hi everyone! I’m thinking of switching to Manitok Red Meat formula (from Zeal, a New Zealand brand). I have some doubts though. My concerns lie with monosodium phosphate, oligofructose & salt listed in the ingredients.

From Wiki, oligofructose is a sweentener extracted from fruits and vegetables, and that list include onion and leeks, which are off-limits to dogs. Should I be concern that this is added to the kibble?

Monosodium phosphate, from what I find from the web, is a combination of the synthetic forms of phosphorus and sodium. Phosphorus can be found in many foods and it’s rare for humans to be deficient in this, and usually doctors would make the recommendation if a supplement is needed. I have no idea if dogs need it in supplemental form, but surely additional sodium is not necessary, right?

And the salt, should I worry that the manufacturer add salt to the dry food? I don’t see it mention in the review and discussions. Am I being too paranoid? Any help is much appreciated!! Thank you!!

[Punky T]

Thank you, theBCnut. I switched Gigi when the bumps broke out the first time; took her off the Orijens mixed protein source, and now have her on Six Fish, which my doctor approved of. I will know more by end of this week when he rechecks her.

And thank you, Nita P… very helpful information. I appreciate you taking the time to write. I’m curious is your Bella gained weight with Dinovite?

Thank you both1

[Anna S]

Thank you. I thought they were doing well on Acana but this summer two of them had to go to doctor for steroids and antihistamines were not working. So I am going to try changing foods before I have to spends hundreds of dollars on allergy testing.

[Bobby dog]

He did something to his left eye. It’s not bothering him in the least. His inner eye lid is not opening all the way. If this makes sense you can only see about half of his eye because the eyelid doesn’t retract all the way. It is not weeping or anything and their is no damage to or around his eye. I noticed it Saturday evening. I am thinking he was itching his face with his hind leg and did something to it. The pupil reacts to light and the Vet was able to manually retract it with little reaction from him. I have some eye drops to use and I’ll see how it goes.

On top of his eye problem, the Doctor was checking out his teeth, removing some tarter, and a tooth fell out. I don’t even think the kitty realized it. He does not have very good teeth, I clean the tarter off of them a couple of times a month. So since his tooth fell out, I was sent home with some antibiotics as well. I noticed his breath didn’t smell too good yesterday, but he had just had his dinner and I thought that was the reason

I am thinking I shouldn’t have cut back on the kefir and coco oil, his skin is a little dry again. With the antibiotics I’ll be feeding kefir to him daily to help his digestive system. He’s laying on my bed right now acting like he doesn’t have a care in the world.

I hope your kitty gets back to normal, sorry to hear she is not herself. 🙁 And if she still won’t eat I hope you are able to find something she will at least nibble on.

[BRT]

I’m just catching up with all of the replies. Thank you all so much. I’m really not feeling well these days. In constant pain daily and fatigue. I’m able to manage to get myself to work. I have endometriosis and was feeling fine for a couple of years after my surgery until my husband and I split up. Boy, does stress do a job on your body. I’m in worse shape now than before. Am exploring other treatment with my doctor that I’m not really looking forward to.

Anyway, I feel like I’m at the end of my rope. This morning I was getting ready for work and heard yorkie/shih tzu bark, came out of the bathroom, and maltese was tugging on my comforter! Tore a huge rip in it. I don’t know what compels him to do these things.

I just switched them to Wellness Simple Salmon and White Potato (couldn’t find the one with peas). As soon as I’m done with that bag I’m going to buy the Salmon and Peas formula.

So much has changed for us since we moved out. We’re in a small condo now in a much smaller neighborhood. We left all of his friends behind. My walks with him are definitely shorter. I have to find it within myself to really structure out some one on one time with him. It’s been so hard. For example, I took an Aleve about an hour ago and am still not getting any pain relief. My lower back is throbbing and I’m sitting at my desk fidgetng.

Thank you all so much for your support and continued advice.

[Kelly D]

Hi everyone! First time poster and I’m super excited I found your forum (so hopefully I’m posting in the right place). We have three dogs – two mutts and a pure-bred Newfoundland. For about two years now, the Newfie (he’s 6yrs old) has had problems with his ears. They’re juicy (gross, but best description), inflamed and painful for him. Our doctor has tested them for bacteria but none really so she says it’s some sort of allergy. We have done the elimination diet SOO many ways. I finally got him allergy tested through ImmuneIQ (much more affordable than vet) and they claim he’s allergic to so many things.

Do you all have any other suggestions as to what this could be? We’ve fed him daily yogurts; kept him away from our two cats, their food and litter box; he’s always been on flea and tick medicine. What could it be??

Here are the ImmuneIQ results:

Can you all recommend a food or should we start making our own?
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU so much in advance!

Kelly

[crazy4cats]

Wow! Thanks, Losul. Some of this information would be very helpful if it was on his website in which he sells the mix. I’m guessing it must not be on the bag either as it sounds like you use it occasionally. I think I am going to order some. I’d like to use it now and then also to take a break from kibble. Hang in there, Cyndi! We’ll figure out how to make Bailey better! You have a great team of “doctors” at your side. lol!

[Liz K]

Thank you all for your kind responses! It really helped me last night. I still didn’t get much sleep and woke up at 6:45 this morning to get her ready to take her to the vet, which turned out to be quite the ordeal, which I feel compelled to detail here as I learned a very valuable lesson today.

I usually take Izzie to a place called Three Trails where she has seen by the same doctor since she was a baby (she’ll always be MY baby). I called one of my good friends crying hysterically and she told me Izzie’s normal doctor wouldn’t be in as he is off on Thursdays (she takes her pups to the vet a LOT). She recommended that I take her to another place, we’ll just call it IAH for short, since they opened at 8 and I had to work today. We (my mom, Izzie, and I) ended up getting there shortly past 8 this morning and this place did not smell good. Not like dog, not like cat, just yuck. We sit in the waiting room and there is this beautiful, sweet, goofy big dog and she just feels compelled to talk…and talk…and talk. It wasn’t bothering us or anyone else. Dog’s bark. It’s what they do. A nurse came out and asked who was barking and said let’s just get this done and took her back immediately. I don’t know if she was annoyed or what, but that should have been my first clue. We get back into the room where the doctor doesn’t even pet her, doesn’t really ask questions or anything. I am in tears because I think that my baby has cancer. He then proceeds to tell me that all lumps have cancer in them. That doesn’t ring true, but it also scares me half to death. He sticks a huge needle in there twice (doesn’t look at anything under the microscope) and says it’s not bleeding and there is no hair in it, so it’s good. I mentioned the microchip and he said that wasn’t where they insert them. I asked what it could be and he gave a lot of random answers and recommended we cut it out. He said we could do it today or we could wait a bit, that it wasn’t urgent. My mom looked at me and said we’ll wait. I was a frazzled mess and so completely miffed that I left the vet with more questions that I had when I went in. We get to the car and my mom looks at me and says that there was no way in hell she was leaving our girl with him. We were so unbelievably upset that people actually send their kids to this guy, not to mention that our friend had recommended him. I decided to try to go to Three Trails and see if they had a walk in appointment available.

We get there and they didn’t have a walk in appointment available but after explaining to them what we had just gone through, they agreed to squeeze us in. We only waited about 45 minutes and then got back into the room. The nurse, whom Izzie generally loves, tried to stick the thermometer up her butt and Iz was none too pleased because she had just been poked on. The nurse was super understanding and tabled that for a bit. Dr. A comes in and we start explaining and she seemed a bit perplexed at the idea that I had just come from a vet and was now coming to see her. She seems to start to understand the issue after we explain more about what happened. The first thing she did was get to know Iz and then scan her microchip. Guess where the microchip was? In the middle of that lump. It had moved from the initial injection. She scanned it twice, which is two more times than the previous vet did. She starts to explain what she thinks it is and also adds that she had a lot of injections at her last appointment and it looked like an injection sight reaction. She said reactions to microchips are rare, but they do happen. She eased my fears as I was crying asking about cancer (google is a dangerous beast when you’re afraid). She explained every thing in detail, told us what we were going to do to get her better and laid out the next steps should it not work. We left with Benadryl, Prednisone, Pill Pockets and most importantly, peace of mind. I only spent 40.00 which I thought was a bargain considering I had just went to a “vet” who charged me 20.00 for nothing.

I keep getting told that Three Trails is more expensive. And you know what? Maybe they are. But isn’t it worth it to know that my baby is okay and have her be comfortable? And I don’t find them to be that much more expensive than any other place. She’s happier there, they re friendlier and they know her. I didn’t even have to tell Dr. A about the microchip. She just looked at her records and knew. The biggest lesson I learned today is if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. She’s been going to Three Trails for all of her life, and as long as I can help it, will go there for many years to come.

[losul]

Lisa: yes good news on keeping it down this time. Has the vet ever communicated to you what he/she thinks has been the cause of the vomiting then? Seem’s to be some communication issues and antagonism from both sides, it might be time to find a new vet relationship, Will you be switching vets now?

Lisa, that earlier pic I linked was of a very large hernia, the opening of which may have been large enough as to not restrict intestinal flow.

These pics are also definitely large enough hernias for the intestines to fall through, and they have, but they are small enough to restrict intestinal flow and cause problems;

http://www.firehousechihuahuas.com/UmbilicalHernia.jpg

http://www.asiahomes.com/dogpix/030603tn_umbilical_hernia_11weeks_Shih_Tzu_Singapore.jpg

This one would be considered a small hernia, and apparently the intestines haven’t pushed through the opening to a large degree…yet….

http://www.waggintailsdachshunds.com/Lance%20Bubble%202.JPG

Bobby dog; Thnx! Yes important to be aware, the Docs aren’t always so aware, but they definitely hear all the “plusses” from the pharmaceutical companies. Glad to hear the eventual outcome for you and family was more positive than it could have been otherwise!
————————
Be sure to ask your doctor if “blank” is right for you, even though the pharmas TV ad gave no indication what the drug was for, sheesh. Thank goodness for DVR’s, lol.

[losul]

Hi Sue66b,

I know you are trying to be helpful, like everyone else, and I truly feel for you and Patch.

You might find it counterintuitive, but I actually thought Betsy’s suggestion for trying ACV was a reasonable and sensible one with little harm done if it didn’t work. It works or it doesn’t. I think there’s a decent chance it could’ve helped, and if it were me I would have been willing to give a try, if only for a short period. It’s inexpensive, non-toxic, and could actually have been a simple solution. It would have been much better if it had been tried sooner before Lisa’s pup’s situation became as dire, but at least it’s good that her pup is now going back to the vet today.

You actually said “ask ur new vet can you have a script & try the Metronidazole,” ( I’ve seen you say similar to others) Vets know all about metronidazole and prednisone without asking them or pressuring them to “try” it. Metronidazole is a very important antibiotic/drug, but can be dangerous and one that shouldn’t be taken indiscriminately, especially not to just to “try” it for diarrhea without knowing what may be causing it. It has some immuno-suppressive and anti-inflammatory effects in the digestive system, but how often is that temporary and not getting to the root problem? It’s a good thing human doctors don’t prescribe it as freely as some vets seem to, or at least I hope they don’t, and especially with repeated and/or higher dosage rounds. Ask any woman that had to take flagyl(metro) at high and/or repeated dosages for certain bacterial infections. Chances are they then expirienced serious yeast overgrowth, or a new yeast infection,- oral thrush, esophageal thrush, vaginal candida, etc., and then had to take fluconazole for the yeast infection. There’s also the issue of certain bacteria selectively building up resistance such as clostridium, staph species, etc. In some humans, sometimes even vancomycin is sometimes no longer very effective against serious c. difficile infections. Hopefully for those folks, whose benificial bacterial flora has been obliterated and can’t seem to ever get the upper hand, fecal matter transplants from healthy donors could hold the key. And maybe some day for dogs also….
__________________________________________________________________
My intent is NOT to scare folks from metronidazole altogether, just to make them more aware, not to take it’s usuage lightly. As I’ve said, it’s a VERY important drug when it’s really needed.
_____________________________________________________________________

Nothing to do with you Sue, but for others-I’m a firm believer that it should not be used as a first line defense for giardia, when there is a safer, cheaper, usually more effective, non antibiotic alternative-fenbendazole (panacur).

Here’s what CAPC Companion Animals Parasite Council says;

No drugs are approved for treatment of giardiasis in dogs and cats in the United States.

Metronidazole is the most commonly used extra-label therapy; however, efficacies as low as 50% to 60% are reported. Safety concerns also limit the use of metronidazole in dogs and cats.

Albendazole is effective against Giardia but is not safe in dogs and cats and should not be used.

Fenbendazole (50 mg/kg SID for 3 to 5 days) is effective in eliminating Giardia infection in dogs. Fenbendazole is approved for Giardia treatment in dogs in Europe, and available experimental evidence suggests that it is more effective than metronidazole in treating Giardia in dogs.

and their reccomendations;

CAPC recommendations for treatment of dogs

Administer fenbendazole (50 mg/kg SID) for 5 days.

Alternatively, fenbendazole (50 mg/kg SID) may be administered in combination with metronidazole (25 mg/kg BID) for 5 days. This combination therapy may result in better resolution of clinical disease and cyst shedding.

If treatment combined with bathing (see Control and Prevention) does not eliminate infection (as evidenced by testing feces for persistence of cysts), treatment with either fenbendazole alone or in combination with metronidazole may be extended for another 10 days.

http://www.capcvet.org/capc-recommendations/giardia/

—————-

Metronidazole is known to cause cancer in mice and rats, it’s not proven to do so in humans or dogs, but here’s what the U.S. National

Toxicology Program (NTP) says;

“Metronidazole is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity from studies in experimental animals”

http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/twelfth/profiles/metronidazole.pdf

————————

[Veronica D]

Does any one use SoJo’s? If so what is your opinion of this food. I have been feeding my 5 Cavaliers this food for years. I cook chicken breast for the protein to go with it. Lately all of their anal glands have been really hard to express. They said that they are very hard, thick substance. The doctor said it’s probably the food that I feed them. I have also thought I was feeding them good. Any thoughts???

Thanks Ronnie

[Nancy C]

Just for the record, my 10 yr old Golden hs been titered since age 2 when she finished the mandatory vaccinations. Every single year the blood work has come out GREAT. The breeder of my first golden who lived over 15 yrs told me to TITER and not vaccinate. She was always healthy. She also told me to ONLY give heart work meds during May through September, which I did. I also did that with my present 10 year old Golden and 1 year ago my vet chewed me out, saying she could get heartworms and I should do it ALL THE TIME. IT scared me so badly I started full time. HOWEVER, I am researching a protocol that is not unsafe and is holistic which I will share later. When I took my two dogs in back in May for annual check ups the vet gave me a pamphlet on LEPTO VIRUS. NOW she wants to vaccinate BOTH DOGS for that virus. I have been studying it and from what I can tell there are several strains of it and not all are covered by the vaccine, plus getting the vaccing CAN CAUSE PROBLEMS… in other words, like ALMOST ALL VACCINES it is not risk free. The vet office called me yesterday to SCHEDULE THE 1st LEPTO SHOT (they come in twos apparently) and I told her I was not ready to commit.
I am sharing this because the vets are tied in to BIG PHARMA, sorry, but they are. It is part of their bread and butter. The Pharmaceutical Industry is HUGE and they are in bed with the FDA. Don’t be fooled that the FDA is looking after you. NOPE. They look after themselves. BIG HUGE MONEY. At the 9/11 tragedy in NYC of all industries in the USA, BIG PHARMA did the best economically. I studied for 6 yrs with one of the FOUNDERS of the AMERICAN HOLisTIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION and learned more than I could absorb about the Pharmaceuticals. Marcia Angel MD writes a wonderful book, THE TRUTH ABOUT THE DRUG COMPANIES; WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT. She was the EDITOR IN CHIEF of the NEw Engl Jour of Medicine for 20 years and explains HOW the Pharmas control the journals now. PRESSURE. And the clinical trials — watch out. Enough on that but suffice it to say that you DO need to keep your eyes open and go HOLISTIC when you can. Last comment: My daughter is a doctor at Stanford Medical Center and I will tell you that MEdical People are marinated in Pharma Talk. IT’s all they have: Meds and Surgeries (Procedures)…. and I am suggesting that mainstream vets are pretty much prey to them too.
That’s it for me. Good luck.

[Anita L]

Akari,
At Sam’s it’s BetterBody Foods Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (56 oz) for $14.98.

Bobby’s Mom,
Again…WOW!
I have checked out the links and love them. Can’t wait to get over to the cat site. I read a piece of it the other day and am very excited!

I have the food list (GF Potato Free). Money is an issue. We are a 1 income family (by choice) but I finally decided to suck it up on the dry food and re-arrange a few things to make that work. Now, I’ll be looking for ways to make the canned food fit in that budget. I have your list from earlier.

My other question on the canned food is how much to give them? Is it on the can or are there other suggestions? Considering I’m using it as a topper….

On the ACV…..I have a personal problem with it. A few years ago, I had a major soar throat that wouldn’t go away and felt like it was coated with fuzzy/fluffy stuff. So, in my infinite wisdom, I made this concoction “to help” (I did NOT want to go to the doctor for their steroid and antibiotics that I didn’t think I needed) of ACV, touch of ginger and cayenne, and honey and then I chugged it…..Until the next day, I just wanted to throw up! All I could taste was the ACV. I was so miserable. So I now laugh at myself (especially since I made and drank about 5-6 oz instead of 1-2 oz….more was NOT better! LOLOL)…but I still cringe at drinking ACV. But I will keep it in mind for my pups. 🙂

One last question….just to clarify. I figured out about refined coconut being best and that refined was the same as virgin. So is extra virgin good as well…just extra refined? I’m thinking yes b/c I want to say I remember one of your links to the one you use was extra virgin. But I want to make sure….especially before I buy more today.

[BRT]

Dori,

Thanks so much for your post. Yes, I’m learning certain things about his vet. She would have him on Prescription Hill’s Canned W/D forever if I would allow it, which is nothing but corn! I absolutely agree about the antibiotics for the staining. That’s why I’ve never done Angel Eyes.

Do you actually feed yours NV Raw? I just bought the 4 lb bag of the Venison bites and once I get them switched over completely I might move to the medallions. Just curious how long a bag lasts you with your three.

I’ve been one of those people who always thought the vet knew best because they are doctors. However, I am learning that’s not the case and I need to do what’s best for my boys. You’re right, I’m the one who takes care of them and knows them the best.

Thanks so much!

[Susan]

Hi, sounds like ur dog is allergic to fleas as you said you washed him & killed some fleas… some dogs can just have 1 flea bite & they will itch, scratch & go mad with itchness…I know I wrote to use Antiseptic lotions (Betadine) just becareful with the iodine & antiseptic lotions as they will dry the skin more, they will kill any bacteria but will also make his skin very dry & more itchy, I only use when Patches paws are real bad & his cortisone cream isnt helping, another very cheap way to relieve his itch & dry skin is what my Dermo doctor told me to do, was go to supermarket in the breakfast section buy some oatmeal that we cook & eat its very cheap he said add some water & make a paste & I was to put this oatmeal paste on my itchy skin & face as I suffer from Scleroderma, the oatmeal will soften his skin & stop his itch & its cheaper also he can eat some & it wont hurt him.. try to leave on for 10 mins then rinse…I would try this before the Antiseptic lotion as it sounds like his skin is very dry & furless from fleas…you should start to see an improvment & fur starting to grow back within 2 weeks & try to keep the fleas off him, in the summer at night when Patch is sleeping I go on a flea hunt thru his skin & kill the fleas on him he loves the massage.. he often picks up fleas from the dog park as I dont use no flea products on Patch as he had a real bad reaction to Advantage spot on & was so sick for 1 week his mouth swelled up, his ear swelled up & was spewing blood 7 hrs after applying the Advantage spot on so vet has said dont use any spot ons or Comfortis she said that the Frontline spray was good but its dear if you have a big dog.. Good Luck as its summer over there, Im having winter & I hate the rain & cold, prefer the heat & beach..

[Bobby dog]

Hi again Leslie R:
It was late last night when I posted my reply, “Some of these canned foods may not be supplemented with vitamins, and they are only for supplemental feeding.” I meant to write some of these canned foods may not be supplemented with vitamins and are labeled for intermittent feeding.

I have fed prescription diets to several pets in the past. I have no problem with some prescription diets; those diets were life savers and improved their health. My Vet worked with me and our goal was to rehab them so they could resume eating what they normally eat. I believe it is important to think outside of the box when feeding ill pets. If he is doing well on a prescription diet, you may want to consider continuing to feed him one.

Here’s are some links to companies that can help formulate homemade or prescription diets for your pet. I have not personally used their services or know anyone who has, but maybe you can find some other options that can help your pup:

You’ve Got Options

http://petdiets.com/?

https://secure.balanceit.com/

http://justfoodfordogs.com/

http://susanwynn.com/Home_Page.php

http://www.raynenutrition.com/default.asp

http://www.doctorsfinest.com/

http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/why-your-dog-doesnt-need-that-expensive-prescription-diet/?inf_contact_key=6679a6279cfecd30f1b6a7ddebba86b877e6fb7d4d6a17482cbaf5be1b62f1e6

[Mareo T]

I was reading an article related to food for dogs or any breed. It is clearly mentioned and doctors also say give chicken bones or mutton bones but the proportion should not be excess. It does not means that you are giving thrice a day. there are many more things to give like milk , egg and fish. today doctors and dog training academies provide food chart for different breeds. It really works and helps.

[Lisa D]

I cook my Yorkie’s food everyday. For breakfast it is a combo of scrambled egg with low carb vegies like green beans, cauliflower, bean sprouts, kale, celery……whatever is in the frig. For dinner it is some sort of fish…canned salmon, sometimes fresh salmon, tilipia and again with a low carb vegie medley. I used to feed him carrots, sweet potatoes but now I am buying into the NO SUGAR. I bathe him in the Malapet shampoo which does not require a doctors prescription. I spray him with white vinegar mixed with water, rinse him in it and I try to stay away from ACV because I think it might have a sugar property. Next I am researching for his immune system. Best of luck to you!

[Yvonne E]

Hi
I have a 16 month old, 6 lb. shihpoo and in Nov. 2013, I found this fully cooked and frozen dog food from Maverick Pet Food, called Nature’s Kitchen Supremium Dog Food. I usually get chicken or Turkey with rice, but they also have grain free and Beef as well. Now the reason for this request is my little wonder, as I’m sure many other small breed, is a very fussy and picky eater. Since finding this brand all I do is slice a portion heat it up a little in the microwave and as soon as I put it down for her she gulps it down immediately. Now since I got her at 8 weeks, she has never showed enthusiasm about any food, kibble, canned, soft pack’ anything, till I found this brand. I did take their analysis to her veterinary doctor and she said it looked ok but not enough fiber content. So I get frozen or canned, salt free green beans and add a few to her food and she loves it. It would be helpful to get an independent review of this product and Dog Food Advisor claims to be just that. So I put it before you to Advise me, and others about this product. Now it bears mentioning that this product is not found in supermarkets or major pet store or pet supermarkets. I’ve only been able to find it in pet bakeries and specialty pet stores.

[Dori]

Hi Shawna. Thanks so much for seeing my post and responding.
All four of Hannah’s liver values was sky high. Last year at this time of year for her physical only one value was high and that was only 1 or 2 points over the high normal so they didn’t mention it because they didn’t think it was any big deal. This year is total different. This year is also when I switched all the girls to all commercial raw for ever meal. I was occasionally rotating in THK Zeal and/or Preference. Katie developed intolerance to alfalfa so I stopped THK. (Katie is the poop eater and though I’m vigilant about being the human pooper scooper, if I’m out and my husband just opens the door and lets them out in the yard. Doesn’t pick up after them. Too be fair, he has macular degeneration pretty bad and probably really doesn’t see it too pick up). Their diet has been Answers, Darwins, Stella & Chewy’s, Primal Pronto, Vital Essentials. As you know all very high proteins, higher in fats than I would like but they all seem to be that way. I did try Natures Variety for a bit but I didn’t like anything about it so that was just one bag between the three of them.

Your friend in California. Does she only rotate between Honest Kitchen Preference and Steve Brown’s Dinner Mix and if so, what proteins, fruits and veggies does she add? Did she ever go back to any raw meals solely or always the pre mixes with protein. Why Premix with oats? Do you know what brand or what it is?

Yesterday was a really really bad day for me. I tried keeping myself together while Hannah was around but I was near hysterical and stressed beyond belief yesterday. If I wasn’t crying I was shaking. I spent almost all day on the computer yesterday trying to digest as much info as I could. The more I read the more nervous I got. I dropped Hannah off this morning (after fasting 12 hours) and just picked her up. They’ll have results back tomorrow afternoon. They were just checking liver at today. They did not want to test for Cushings today because they felt that we needed to take one step at a time. All four doctors in the practice spoke with me today and explained that the Cushing’s test needs to be given medication first (steroids???), and because of the fasting then feeding fatty food and then rest and retesting for the liver test that felt that would interfere with true bloodwork for Cushing’s test and wouldn’t be accurate. Sounds logical. So one step at a time. Depending what they find with results of tests for both liver and Cushing’s they’ll do a liver ultrasound. Best case scenario it’s something that they can reverse levels with food and Sam-E type prescription product. Worse case scenario could be tumor or cancer of the liver. At her age it would be a matter of keeping her comfortable. She’s certainly too old for surgery, chemo, radiation or anything else that goes along with it.

They did tell me no more rabies vaccines for her (unfortunately she had one on Friday during her yearly physical) and definitely no more HW preventative, Sentinel, for her either.

So I’m interested in knowing more about your friend in California and what she fed along with the premixes. That’s the one thing I want to work on immediately. I certainly don’t want to have to put her on one of their prescribed foods so I’m trying to get a jump on getting and ordering whatever I need to change her diet to. This has come as a shock to me. All the issues with her I could justify with other problems she has like loss of hair would be hypothyroid. No jumping on furniture and trembling loss of hind leg muscles and weakness I attributed it to mid spine degenerated discs. One thing I do know is that she is drinking enormous amounts of water.

I’d appreciate any guidance you can give me.

[DogFoodie]

Dr. Dan was a referral from my regular vet. My regular vet practices integrative medicine. I just remembered that my vet used to work at Natural Family Pet, Dr. Becker’s clinic (which is also not too far from me), before she came to the city in which I live. Maybe ask your traditional vet if she works with lasers. Anyway, I started out with Dr. Dan because I was worrying about Sam’s limping on his front leg (which was pano) and his right front leg sometimes trembles.

Did you look at the ACVA link, here are the doctors in Georgia with several near you (I once lived in the South so I have a general idea where you are):

M. Spencer Newman DVM Marietta GA 404-822-1110
Heidi Bockhold DC Kingston GA 678-207-6678 [email protected]
Kara Yarbrough DC Marietta GA 678-612-4488 [email protected]
Evelyn Laura Orenbuch DVM Marietta GA 678-803-2626
Charlene Kickbush DVM Bishop GA 706-769-0230 [email protected]
Gaile Daley DC Pendergrass GA 770-851-7849 http://www.heartfelthealingarts.com
Kimberly Neff DVM Cumming GA 770-906-1030 http://www.horsesnhoundsvet.com
Bill Connolly DVM Snellville GA 770-972-0447
Karen Voss DC Savannah GA 912-312-2046 [email protected]

Very exciting stuff!

I’m running off to church and will check in with you when I return!

[DogFoodie]

Hi Dori,

I would totally look into that if I were you! I started taking Sam to a TCVM who practices both (actually my regular vet does acupuncture too, but she suggested that I see the other vet) and I felt like it helped Sam a great deal. Sam would come home after an adjustment and be so calm and just nap away. When Sam starts limping, I take him in for a recheck. When I was dealing with food intolerance and the resulting reoccurring ear issues, my TCVM helped me with that as well and actually, chiropractic adjustments can help with some of those symptoms as well also. I give it a big thumbs up! Wish you were close to me, I’d take you to my guy. : ) http://www.avcadoctors.com/avcadus.htm

Edit: Actually, I know that laser therapy is something that my vets do quite a bit of for joint pain / issues also. I’m also adding a link to my vet, even though I know you aren’t close to me, I seem to recall he had some interesting info on his website. You can see him do an adjustment on a horse! http://evetclinic.com/

[Akari_32]

Alright guys, I have a problem. I’m certain this cat has a urinary tract infection. I barely have the money for shots and possible neutering (I’m seriously paying for it out of my savings, and it’ll be about $200), but I likely can’t afford to have the cat diagnosed and treated in the time frame it needs to be done (it really just depends on if the vet takes pity on me or not….). I mean, I’m canceling my own doctors appointment so I can have that extra money for his shots and whatever else he needs…. Does anyone know if I could contact local cat rescues and possibly have them help me with the bills? Would they do that? And does anyone know of any sort of programs that provide veterinary help for low income pet owners? I mean, shelters are full, I’m sure someone would rather fork out some extra money to keep an animal in a home it already has rather than it get dropped off because it has medical needs.

• This reply was modified 11 years, 9 months ago by Akari_32.

[losul]

Just some info bits i’m picking up here and there;

Pharmacokinetics of Milbemycin Oxime
After oral administration to dogs milbemycin oxime is quickly and almost completely absorbed. Peak plasma concentration is reached 2 to 4 hours later, and subsequently declines with a half-life of 1-3 days. Bioavailability is about 80%.

In rats, metabolism seems to be complete, since unchanged milbemycin oxime was not found in urine or feces. High concentrations of milbemycin oxime are found in the liver and in body fat.

As a general rule, due to a different pharmacokinetic behavior the anthelmintic effect is longer for milbemycin oxime than for ivermectin, although this strongly depends on the delivery form and the administered dose.

http://parasitipedia.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2673&Itemid=3005
—————
WARNING: Dogs of some breeds are sensitive to milbemycin oxime, other macrocyclic lactones or other drugs (e.g. emodepside) that can cross the blood-brain barrier. They can suffer more or less serious adverse effects if treated at dose rates higher than the recommended ones. Consequently dosing must be as accurate as possible. This is the case for Collies and related breeds, which have a mutation in the MDR-1 gene that affects the blood-brain barrier and makes it more permeable to such compounds than in dogs without this mutation. Besides Collies, other dog breeds have shown similar problems, although the MDR-1 mutation has not been confirmed in all of them. The breeds more affected by this mutation are (% frequency): Collie (70%), Long-haired Whippet (65%), Australian Shepherd (50%, also mini), McNab (30%), Silken Windhound (30%), English Shepherd (15%), Shetland Sheepdog (15%), English Shepherd (15%), German Shepherd (10%), Herding Breed Cross (10%). Other less affected breeds are: Old English Sheepdog, Border Collie, Berger Blanc Suisse, Bobtail, Wäller. The only way to be sure that a dog is affected or not by the MDR-1 gene defect is to test for it. As more dogs are tested it is likely that the mutation is discovered in other breeds, or that the frequencies change. Besides Collies, other dog breeds have shown similar problems, although the MDR-1 mutation has not been confirmed in all of them. The breeds more affected by this mutation are (% frequency): Collie (70%), Long-haired Whippet (65%), Australian Shepherd (50%, also mini), McNab (30%), Silken Windhound (30%), English Shepherd (15%), Shetland Sheepdog (15%), English Shepherd (15%), German Shepherd (10%), Herding Breed Cross (10%). Other less affected breeds are: Old English Sheepdog, Border Collie, Berger Blanc Suisse, Bobtail, Wäller. The only way to be sure that a dog is affected or not by the MDR-1 gene defect is to test for it. As more dogs are tested it is likely that the mutation is discovered in other breeds, or that the frequencies change.

http://parasitipedia.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2673&Itemid=3005

——————–
This is only referring to humans, and they don’t mention anthlemintics here, most people don’t use dewormers though.

“Inform the doctor if you are also on anxiolytics, antipsychotics, anticoagulants, anticancer drugs, statins, and seizure prevention drugs, as most of these are worked upon by some major hepatic enzymes and thus, milk thistle might disrupt their course of action.”
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/milk-thistle-dosage.html

——————
A bit on moxidectin

Pharmacokinetics of Moxidectin
After absorption into blood moxidectin is well distributed throughout the whole body including target organs such as the gastric and gut mucosae. The highest concentrations are found in body fat that acts as a depot from where it is progressively released to blood. Moxidectin is more lipophilic than ivermectin and consequently it is stronger deposited in body fat, which results in a higher residual effect and a longer protection against several parasites than ivermectin (by comparable delivery form and administered dose).

http://parasitipedia.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2669&Itemid=3008

[Dori]

Again, Losul, I would insist on x-rays and ultra sound. Yes, doctors can listen to you with a stethoscope but can they REALLY know what’s going on with further testing be it x-rays, ultra sound or whatever. I can only go by what I go through myself with my medical issues but are we really so different than our furry family members. Not really. Not in diagnosing illnesses and the extent to which they have ravished our bodies or not. I certainly would not be content with a doctor holding a stethoscope to me listening to my heart and lungs and giving me a diagnoses. I want details. Some doctors are excellent and they still order tests. My doctor is head of his department at Emory Medical University Center in Georgia but he would still and always does order every test under the sun. X-rays, ultra sounds, CT scan, MRI’s. Funny thing is, if he made suggestions without further testing I would follow his lead. But, he’s been my doctor for this illness for the past 11 years and he was a student of my doctor at Cornell with I lived in NYC. Gottta trust your doctor (vet) or go with more testing.

[Dori]

Thanks so much Losul and Shawna. I’ve been researching like crazy but I have to stop for a few minutes. Dogs and hubby are hungry. I will continue after dinner cleanup. Dr. Karen Becker says dose milk thistle for 7 days right after heart worm prevention if you must use it in areas of mosquitos (southern states year round). I have found other sites that contradict her thoughts. So far what I’ve come up with is “damned if you do and damned if you don’t”. I’ll continue research and report later this evening.

Losul. Ive continued to research your situation and the majority of the sites suggest x-rays and/or ultrasound. Some sites say at minimum due x-rays. Others say both. If you have the finances I’d do both. As someone with an autoimmune else (connective tissue muscles and skin involvement called Dermatomyositis) I’ve always been told that blood tests, x-rays and ultra sounds are the way to go by all my different doctors with all their different specialties) because X-rays will pick up some issues that ultra sound won’t and vice versa. I would assume that that is true with everything. As I say, if your finances allow it I would do both. But no judgment if you do neither. Trust your instincts, they usually work well by us. Also you have fabulous help in some of the posters, others, like myself just want to give you some moral support and prayers. As I’ve said before, Shawna and Aimee are real gems but in the end you’ve got to go with your gut. Listen to it, it serves us well.

[Dori]

Chiribaya Shepherd. Very well said. I don’t work for a vet nor have I ever but you have said what I have been saying for years. I’ve had my dogs microchipped since it’s inception with never a problem. As a matter of fact, and I mentioned it before, I was present at my insistence, and only one cried BUT not at the injection. She started crying the moment I walked in the vets office as she always has and 4 1/2 years later she still does.

The idea that your dog or cat is never ever going to get out of the house by a quick dart through the door is being naive. I have never understood anyone thinking that a breakaway collar would give them a measure of peace. As you said, and so many others, breakaway collars breakaway. It’s what they are meant to do. If your dog gets loose and someone is trying to he helpful and catch it, they are going to do that by the collar which WILL breakaway. It’s suppose to do that. That’s it’s purpose.

I have three toy dogs. I do not keep collars on them in the house. That would be irresponsible of me. Toy dogs are prone to collapsing tracheas. Toy dogs, as most dogs in the same home, play hard and rough. They can get themselves caught up all on their own and choke themselves on something you would never expect. My sense of peace is knowing that my dogs are microchipped. I have moved many times over the years and always update our address to one and all sites that my dogs are registered with. That is my responsibility. If I move and forget to change address with post office, banks, insurance, magazines, whatever that would be my fault. We all do all of that when we move, why would we not remember to change our address with the vets office, the sites that our dogs are registered with and their insurance if you have VPI or another health insurance for your dogs which I do. We don’t forget to update our own doctors and insurance. It’s our responsibility to keep all their records up to date. I’ve known plenty of people who’s animals have gotten out and have been found because of their microchip.

[ChiribayaShepherd]

As someone who works in a vet clinic I strongly recommend getting your dog or cat microchipped. In less than a year we have had a least 6 dogs brought in with no ID but a microchip and got them reunited, including one who had been missing for about a week and was about an hour drive away from home. I have had plenty of calls of people reporting their dog missing with no tags on but a microchip, only to call in a few hours later that someone had found the dog or cat and taken it somewhere where it was scanned and they were able to get their pet back home. I just had one of those calls

today

I can only imagine how many pets are reunited at the shelter.

Yes the needle is not tiny, but plenty of pets get on just fine having it done. Some pets will yowl in fear/pain at anything you do. Having it done during a routine surgery such as a spay or neuter is a good idea if you’re concerned about the pain.

While it seems a legitimate concern not to microchip your laboratory rat, even the staunchest opponents list single digits of cases of dogs and cats who had a chip in or near their sarcoma as their “evidence”, some of which are cancer prone breeds, out of the millions of pets who are microchipped each year. While heartbreaking for their owners, this less than one in a million, doctors acknowledge that the presence of a foreign body may have triggered the cancer but that does not show causation that the microchip would be of special concern over another type of foreign body. Two of the cases listed aren’t even cancer related, but due to human error in injecting the microchip improperly. More pets have developed sarcomas from vaccines.

Not knowing who has what scanner, or an owner’s failure to to update the registration is not a reason not to do it, it’s a reason to have better scanners and for owners, veterinary practices and shelters to be more vigilant in keeping records up to date.

Nobody realizes their dog or cat could escape from where they escaped from until it does. I didn’t know my dog could run down a cliff that was at least a 50 degree angle until he was 150 feet down it; owners don’t know their dog can scale an 8 foot fence until it already has; or that their indoor cat would bolt past them that one time after years of showing no interest in that door. And trying to grab a breakaway collar to catch them means it should, well, break away! How is that a fail-safe way to keep an ID on a dog exactly?

Microchipping is not a “false” sense of security, and for every dog with a chip that couldn’t be read, there are hundreds if not thousands who never get back home because their owners didn’t microchip their pets in the first place.

[ChiribayaShepherd]

I work in a veterinary clinic (not a vet) and I’ll be honest, I don’t know what makes Hills, or any other prescription food for that matter, any better or worse than a quality food from a regular store. I have seen many patients have success with Hills, but I don’t know why. For that matter, I don’t think the vets in our practice could tell you why. And that is the best question to either get the right answers or really humble them. Simply ask what ingredients in either the food they’re recommending or any food from any source will do to improve the condition and why, and ask to see a bag or can and have them go over it with you. If they don’t know and they’re good vets (because they really don’t get enough training in nutrition), they will want to know for themselves and say they want to look into it more and consult back with you. If they insist you stay on a certain diet and only that diet for the rest of their lives, find a new doctor. We carry several brands of prescription food and I know a lot of their recommendations come from seeing great results in their other patients, but they don’t say “must use Hills”… Their wealth of knowledge is valuable, because they see so many different animals with the same issues as yours and have seen the results of their treatments, but a good vet is willing to admit when they need to look into it further and do that. (And ours do!)

[Lablubber]

Thank you guys for all of your quick responses and I sure hope I don’t get associated with being lazy but you know what? I go to a doctor who is very much into natural cures and holistic medicine as was my mother. And so I take a complete array of herbal medicine and my health, blood work and every part of my being has improved greatly so I continue in this approach.

But when I came here, my dog was on puppy chow from the breeder who raved about it as well as my own vet. recommended it as well unless I wanted to switch to Royal Canin. Upon coming here in just a short time, I started transitioning to what I thought was a great food from all I had read on my own, which was a bad choice so I referred to what you guys suggested and quickly learned my wisdom was severely lacking and I needed to make another change…..

So that is why I am now asking to not make another mistake. I am taking newsletters from Raw folks, holistic vets, folks in the know such as you but trying to disseminate it all has really become quite confusing….One says, it causes yellow stools and the next says it contains one bad ingredient…Garlic, rosemary extract, some chemical that is bad and so then when I am just about decided on what I want to switch to next before the raw… Boom then here comes another post from someone I respect as very knowledgeable in this field and there I am back to square one again…

and so really I just want to cut to the chase because I am at the point food wise that in order to transition to another brand or type…. I have to move quickly or otherwise I will have to go buy more Blue to accomplish that and I don’t want to do that.

So I just looked at Chewy.com and wished I would have gone there long ago and I will order several different bags just to try and see how he does on them and if one seems to agree with him better than the other, that you guys recommended than I will stick with that or use both and switch them in and out as I converge over to raw.

Thank you all so very much for your help…

The Lablubber

[Dori]

Just looked at Hannah’s soloxine prescription bottle and it says give with food. Well, I’m taking her next week to get her levels checked and insist they send them to either Hemopet or Michigan State and also to find out why she’s having them type to give with food when that it not the best way for her body to utilize this med. Honestly, it’s getting to the point that you can’t trust them with anything, not food certainly, and now I have to question how to give her meds and is she sure. Crazy, and for what they charge the moment you walk through the door you’d at least think they knew how to prescribe meds. Though I have to say my pharmacist has caught mistakes some times on what my doctor has prescribed to me that are contraindicated in other meds I take (have an autoimmune illness) and my doctor knows every med I take so go figure??

[Tucker]

Hi Patty, RDM, and everyone who has been so helpful. Hope everyone is having a wonderful day wherever you hail from. I think Tucker’s OCD is making me OCD…lol

After reading everything here, following the links, talking to my breeder, my ortho surgeon who is the Pioneer of reconstructive surgery, and a bunch of stores, and an AKC trainer and show people I have finally come to a conclusion. To all of you newbies out there as overwhelmed as I am wanting to do the very very best for our kids I hope this helps you on your journey for perfection. I understand the madness 🙂

First anyone who is considering food from Costco… DONT! My Dr. was adamant about not using there food for all of the reasons that are listed in the thread. So if it helps anyone, that is what I got from the doctor’s mouth and he is old school conservative. As a side note, I asked about the antlers and he said he wasn’t as concerned about the calcium as the little horns or pieces breaking off and getting stuck in the gums and causing abscesses. he has gotten a couple. Who would of thought? just wanted to share the 411.

As for the food I am starting off with Earthborn Meadow Feast. You get grain free, perfect calcium balance and a slightly higher protein percentage than most of the standard stuff with grain. There seems to be a lot of problems with soft stool ramping the protein in such a jump so this should help for a smooth transition and eliminate both the chicken and grain as potential itchy causers.

Then jump to Earthborn Coastal Catch with 32% protein – same family of foods with a moderate protein jump. Best chance of easy transition.

If all goes well with the protein the we jump to the Wellness Core Puppy with 36%. Get a blend of meats and see how the itchies hold up. I’m guessing not an issue since his diet will be so well balanced he will be GLOWING by that point!

If there are any issues with soft poop from protein I will slide a bag of Dr. Tim’s Kenesis in there to stay at 26%.

Tucker is 4 months now so that rotation will take him to 8 months. Should I do another round to a year old or does the debate start all over again at that point lol 🙂 If all is good I would guess we head to the higher proteins for the 8-12 months and beyond? I am in Los Angeles so fortunately I can get just about anything.

As for toppers the store gave me samples of THK zeal, embark, and love. Now I see what you are talking about. That is quite expensive. But as a topper just a little here and there not bad at all. I also got a can of PetKind wild salmon and Lamb Tripe. Is anyone familiar with these? Are they OK?

I didn’t focus as much on the toppers reading, but figured that was the next step in the evolution here so I bought a few to get ready 🙂

I have small bags of other 5 star foods on the list that I am not going to use in the rotation. Is it OK to use those as training treats or best to stick with what he is eating.

Also if there are a few magic toppers or daily doses you all swear by I would love to know.

Thank you again for helping me figure this all out. It feels right and makes sense.

After speaking to everyone else out there I can confidently say there is no better place for nutritional advice than right here! Thanks

ps. how do we get a photo up there like some of you have? I would love for you all to meet Tuk

[Lablubber]

Hi KMS

Every vet I have been to with all my dogs recommends Royal Canin Feed for dogs. And I have to be straight up honest with you too…..

This whole dog food issue is driving me absolutely nuts but I study it like a beast and I read and read and read and this is what I have concluded in all that I have read, been advised to do, and from what I have seen first hand in all of….

The Raw diet, although I know that it can be really great and it does seem like the most natural thing to do for your dog. But this is also from my studies of it, know to be a fact……

First the whole reason you are reading this anyway because you like myself, want only the best for your dog and so you want to be absolutely sure your dog or pup is getting everything it needs and requires in it’s diet… And so yes….If you use absolute extreme caution in prep and storage and you get all of your ingredients from a for sure, organic farm and ranch. And if you want to be absolutely sure that your supplementation is correct that you are going to use. the only for sure way that you can do that is by having bloodwork ran on your dog and having a nutritional spectro analysis ran to know the correct amounts of each vitamin and nutrient is being met in his diet and then no one can argue that the Raw diet is a great way to go.

But… the big But word….. The downside to the Raw diet has been, that due to prep work and non organic ingredients being used and this has happen to people who are OCD about it…But it has led to some very serious bacteia infections in people’s dogs and has even caused death in dogs due to the bacteria present in raw food. This bacteria has caused dog’s intestines to actually sluff off the inner lining and pass blood so bad that if they made it through the IV treatment and antibiotics regime then they were fine or otherwise dwindled down and they died.

So the downfall to raw is obviously, the chance you take in that happing, the expense of the spectro analysis, not to mention food cost involved…

Then the super high tech foods that everyone reccomends… The stuff like Blue, Innova, Dr. whatever and all that list on here… They all have high cost, but at least because they were processed in a high temp. situation…The biggest majority of all bacteria has been removed from it. So that is not a worry…. But then you read and know people who have fed that feed and some dogs have bleeding problems associated with it because of the high protien involved in it… Or whatever causes it….. It is not a rarity either….

Then a big push by folks for this food is they say that is like the food that animals in the wild eat and so let me say this as a country boy to as well as being an avid predator hunter, I have never in my life, seen wolves nor coyotes…..Ever eating carrots, blueberries, potatoes, kelp, etc. So in reality then….What is a person to think???? Not like a wild animals diet at all….

Then you come to the more old tried and true….The per say….Puppy Chows and High Pros and the Iams and Eukanubas etc. and yet more and more people are having their precious dogs come down with all different kinds of cancers and tumors. And for me being an avid reader of medical stuff in humans and from all I have read about Monsanto and the genetically mutated corn and the serious ill effects and cancer causing issues they have had in humans because of it….Then it also makes me extremely leery of any pet product containing any corn or corn by product….But yet, even myself I had to learn from folks on here of the ill effects of non-regulated calcium uptake in puppies, especially large breeds and yet I have never raised a lab pup that I didn’t put milk replacer or powdered milk in their food when I feed them…

So needless to say…..It is a very scary world out there for all of us as pet owners…. But one thing I have learned about some vets is…. They like doctors will treat a dog, until you say this is enough and I have been there some times before myself. So one thing I have learned and also saved many a dog with even those who had been left to die of parvo is if you are truly serious about your dog as much as most of us are on here. I will share my country boy diet that has saved quite a few dogs, exhibiting the very same symptoms your dogs is showing…

Go to a local rancher/farmer who raises ducks or chickens near you and and one who lets them fend for them selves for feed and buy them. Then butcher the ducks and boil them down to pieces and I mean everything….the livers and gizzrds and hearts and then add cooked organic brown rice or even quinoa and feed your dog exclusively on that for at least several weeks or even a month after all signs of bleeding ceases to exist in his stool…. As well as, only allow him or her to drink only alkaline water. If you have to buy it….I know Fiji water is akaline but it is also fairly expensive.

Then I would also add 3 capsules of tumeric or curcumin which is the same thing, to his food daily everday and continue that from there on cutting back to one to two capsules a day after he is healed. You can get this at any health food store or pharmacy…

If your dog were showing any signs of weight loss or delapidation in any ways whatsoever…. As I did in the ones that had parvo, I would also recommend adding acidophilus to his food as well as Goat colostrum and I can tell you, your dog’s bleeding should stop within a 4 to 5 days and he will be well on his way to recovery although I would recommend keeping him on the chicken and brown rice regime for at least a month and then begin to transition over to what ever food you want him to be on from then on, always watching closely for any recurrance of bllod in the stool.

Myself I would use the Goat Colostrum and Acidophilus anyway if money permitted regardless of weight loss or not…. But anyway if you couldand if you really wanted to recharge his system as well…. I would keep him on the acidophilus, tumeric and Goat colostrum for at least several months afterwards and then I would also start adding high flora yogurt to his feed when the bleeding stops…

I am not an expert by any means, but I am just a country boy who loves animals and refuses to watch any animal die if I can stop it. I will be honest…. I have lost faith in the medical field when it comes to humans and am quickly losing for the veterinarian field as well due to drug manufacturers and feed manufacturers getting in some of their pockets….

Yiour are well blessed if you have a vet who is in it for all of the right reasons… Very few and very far between… The love of money is the root of all evil and yes it has creeped down into the Vet world as well.

[beagleowner]

I feel I have come to the acceptance that Henry is gone and as the doctor told me there was nothing I did or could have done that would have preventend this. His heart failed and he was dying. However I was not present when they euthanized him. I was so distressed and shocked that he was dying I couldn’t bear to be there . When I talked to one of my family members and they heard that I was not present for the procedure she said that pets want you there to comfort them so they know you loved them. Reading some articles on the web, many are saying the same. Now my guilt has set in and I am dwelling on this. I let him down at the last moments. While he laid on the table for an exam, I petted him, kissed him and scratched his head and told him I loved him. My husband also did the same and in fact Henry put his chin on my husbands hand. Neither of us stayed for the procedure, but I did see him after it was over and he looked so peaceful. But I can’t get the guilt out of my mind. You have all been such a comfort to me. Thank you.

[Duke The Boxer]

patty have you tried this brand or have heard about it? Obviously it is not one of the foods on HDM’s list but some of their formulas looks pretty good. i like how this formula has a good amount of glucosamine in it. please let me know your consideration.
http://www.midamericapetfood.com/victordogfood/joint_health.html

PS
I should also add that Duke is doing good on Coastal Catch but he is still having random regurgitation of his food a couple hours after eating it. It was happening towards the end of the wellness core bag and im still transitioning with the wellness core and the CC. Please if any one if you ladies not just patty can please maybe give their 2 cents to come to some leads for figuring out why he is doing this. he is going to the vet tomorrow to get reweighed for his demodex medicine and i will mention it to the doctor.