[Anonymous]

Newman’s Organics is a decent food, check Chewy.com for prices….if you go too cheap, they could end up with health issues. Then you will have to figure out how to pay for veterinary care. Just saying, some dogs can get away with a poor diet, just like some people can, but some don’t.

[Anonymous]

Yes, I would be concerned about it’s ability to actually kill fleas/ticks. Pay attention to the critical reviews….. Good luck

PS: I would probably use it in conjunction with something else, maybe even a Preventic collar (amitraz). It depends on how bad the fleas/ticks are in your area as to what type of protection would be best. Or, you could still use it inbetween a topical…
I use Wondercide spray on my dogs, but I wouldn’t trust it alone to do the job. I think it helps s little, sometimes I spray some on myself too.
People tell us we spell like their grandma’s cedar chest!

[Anonymous]

I have tried these type of products, I tend to think of them as repellents, at best, they also keep people away from you and your dog because they stink (just my opinion) 🙂
Consult your vet for recommendations on adequate flea/tick control products.

PS: There are a lot of reviews for the product at the link you provided.
I have not used this specific product. It might very well be a lovely dog shampoo.

[Anonymous]

Give it at bedtime. The “holistic” stuff isn’t medication. They are considered food supplements. It will say right on the package that they are not intended to cure or treat medical conditions.

Find a vet that you trust and go by what he recommends. If you don’t have one already.
Did a vet approve the Benadryl and clarify the dosage? What is the dog’s diagnosis?

[Anonymous]

If the Benadryl is helpful and the vet approves, I wouldn’t be afraid of it.
The specialist told me that with dogs, it goes through their system quickly, doesn’t accumulate like some meds do. Just make sure you don’t give it more than how it is prescribed.

[Anonymous]

“I do not want to give her Benadryl every day for the rest of her life. Any good natural med’s that are safe to give out there”?
@ Shirley,
If the vet that is treating your dog has recommended prn Benadryl, and the dosage is correct for the dog’s weight…it shouldn’t hurt your dog (once a day, or however your vet has prescribed it).
The thing is, Benadryl doesn’t always do much to relieve symptoms. I still use it for my dog with allergies, when she has a flare up. I think it helps a little, in conjunction with her regular treatment..

Some vets recommend a fish oil capsule once a day, may help with dry itchy skin (pruritus)

[Anonymous]

http://skeptvet.com/Blog/2011/09/integrating-myths-and-nonsense-with-standard-advice-for-allergic-pets/ (excerpt below)
Bottom Line
Allergies are a serious medical problem that causes a great deal of suffering for pets and their owners. Causes are complex and involve both genetic, developmental, and environmental factors, and symptoms tend to come and go unpredictably, which makes evaluating the effects of any particular intervention challenging. While there are many safe and effective therapies that can help manage allergy symptoms, there is no cure. Only complete avoidance of the antigens the individual is allergic to can eliminate symptoms entirely, and this is often not possible. No treatment that has any benefit is completely without risks, and the risks and benefits must always be carefully and rationally weighed.

The variability and chronicity of the symptoms and the complexity of the causation create fertile ground in which to sow myths and misconceptions about causes and treatments, as this article does vigorously. Providing treatments based on sound scientific understanding of the physiology of allergies and supported by reliable scientific evidence of safety and efficacy is the best way to help patients with this serious condition. Myths about allergy causes and treatments that are without a rational, scientific foundation or any real evidence of safety and efficacy are not legitimate “choices” or “options” to offer pet owners looking for real help. Integrating unproven methods and outright nonsense with established allergy therapies doesn’t add value or reduce risks, it diminishes our ability to help these patients and their human families.

[Anonymous]

Seriously, if these symptoms you describe have been going on for over a year (4 seasons) with no significant periods of relief, despite diet changes, frequent bathing, etc.
It’s time to consider having IDT (intradermal skin test) done by a board certified veterinary dermatologist. That’s my recommendation, based on my experience and positive results 🙂

[Anonymous]

Intradermal Skin Tests http://www.allergydogcentral.com/2011/06/30/dog-allergy-testing-and-allergy-shots/
“An intradermal skin test involves the injection of a small amount of antigen into your dog’s skin. This procedure is most often performed by a veterinary dermatologist or pet allergy specialist. Here’s how the process works”.

“First, your dog will be administered a mild sedative, and a 4”x8” area on their side (near the armpit) will be shaved – so it is easy to see the skin. Next, the Dr. will inject small doses of a wide variety of common, regional antigens into their skin”.

The above test is what I’m talking about, I never did the blood test. The specialist told me that IDT is the most accurate for identifying environmental allergies (which is often the problem).
It does not test for food allergies/intolerances.
You get the results right away and leave with a treatment plan (that was my experience).

[Anonymous]

Please consider making an appointment with a dermatologist/specialist for diagnosis and testing. Environmental allergies get worse with age and have nothing to do with the food.
/forums/search/allergies/ (I don’t necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed)

From what you describe, it sounds like your dogs are suffering. For serious conditions you need to go to a specialist, it makes a BIG difference. Best of luck.

[Anonymous]

The echo is important to rule out a leaky valve, found a decent article on mitral valve insufficiency. Excerpt below: Can’t post the link but you can find the complete article at:
Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education, Search articles for: Heart Failure (Mitral Valve Insufficiency) in the Dog

Treatment of dogs with mitral insufficiency depends upon the size of the heart and if clinical signs are present. Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of valvular heart disease in dogs are based on classifying dogs into several stages:
•Stage A: Dogs with no murmur or symptoms but who are at risk of developing valvular heart disease. These include Cavalier King Charles spaniels and small breeds of dogs.
•Stage B1: Dogs with no heart enlargement or symptoms.
•Stage B2: Dogs with enlarged left atriums and/or ventricles but no symptoms.
•Stage C: Dogs with heart enlargement and symptoms of congestive heart failure.
•Stage D: Dogs not responding to treatment for congestive heart failure.

Dogs in Stages A and B1 generally do not receive treatment, but are monitored for any changes in heart size or progression into symptoms.

Treatment of dogs in Stage B2 is controversial. Some veterinarians believe treatment of these dogs will slow progression of the disease, others do not.

Treatment of dogs in the Stage C with heart enlargement and symptoms is based on medications to help the heart pump more efficiently. Drugs that may be used include diuretics that cause the dog to urinate more and thereby remove excess fluids from his lungs. These include furosemide (Lasix) or spironolactone .
Medications such as pimobendan or an angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitor like enalapril may be given to help the heart pump more efficiently. Digoxin, another heart medication may also be prescribed. If the dog does not respond well to these medications and is in Stage D, other therapies such as amlodipine may be used. Cough suppressants and bronchodilators may be prescribed is there is a chronic cough.

Diets lower in sodium may assist in decreasing the fluid build-up. It is important to maintain adequate protein intake. Attempts should be made to maintain the dog at his ideal weight. The use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements is often recommended.

What is prognosis for dogs with mitral valve insufficiency?

Many dogs with heart murmurs due to mitral valve insufficiency may live for years before developing any symptoms. They should be carefully monitored however, so treatment can be started as soon as warranted. In those dogs with heart failure, approximately half will not survive for more than 6-12 months.

[Anonymous]

“Basically all I’m asking for is advice to make sure his murmur stays the way it is or goes away”.

No one can guarantee this. Your best bet is to make an appointment with a specialist.
Take things day by day, he looks good and is responding well to the diet and care you have been providing (from what you describe).

Like I said, in my experience, most murmurs are benign….I have one myself (since I was a kid) it has caused me no problems and I am on no meds because of it. (I had the echo and stress test, blah, blah, blah)

[Anonymous]

I think it may be best to find a vet that you trust and listen to his advice.

organ meat
noun
the entrails and internal organs of a butchered animal, i.e. heart, kidneys, liver, sweetbreads; variety meat
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/organ+meat

[Anonymous]

Organ meats are higher in fat, therefore I would lean toward lean meats as a topper, broiled chopped up skinless, boneless chicken breast, cooked lean sandwich steak or similar chopped up.
Dogs love chicken, but keep in mind, that chicken tends to be naturally high in sodium.
They love occasional chopped up broiled chicken liver (just a little) added to kibble 🙂

I get my meat for the dogs in the reduced price section of the market, been doing this for years, sometimes I freeze it first, no problems yet.

[Anonymous]

Did the vet do a lung x-ray? To rule out other reasons for the congestion? Most of my older dogs eventually have murmurs. But, your dog is young…. doesn’t mean that it might just be congenital and benign. Good luck, let us know what they find.

PS: For the age related murmurs, my dogs were never prescribed medication, as they were asymptomatic. No supplements were recommended either, just a healthy lifestyle and avoid high sodium foods.

[Anonymous]

Check The SkeptVet for info, click on Herbs and Supplements.

[Anonymous]

Is your vet a specialist (cardiac)? I would spend my money on that first, before supplements. See what the specialist recommends.

[Anonymous]

Is the dog on medication? I don’t understand why you think raw food is indicated? What does the vet that examined your dog recommend?
Heart murmurs are not that unusual, often they are benign and asymptomatic….just saying.
http://skeptvet.com/Blog/category/nutrition/

Daily brisk walks may help, check with your vet first.

[Anonymous]

You may find some helpful tips here, in General Guidelines: http://www.homeovet.net/dynamic/php/downloads/dog-c8470f2c75dbe4b683205c3919ee2310/dog_diet_complete.pdf

and here http://skeptvet.com/Blog/category/nutrition/

Age 7 is considered senior for a dog, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have a geriatric workup done, lab work etc. See what your vet recommends….. otherwise, one or two feedings per day, long walks, an occasional snack (just a bite), should do the trick.

Adequate elimination, one or two bowel movements a day, are a good thing. Constipation would be more problematic. Also, make sure they are getting enough water, as dogs get older they are more vulnerable to bladder stones.
The best scenario is to offer a bathroom break at least every 4 hours (minimum).

[Anonymous]

A word to the wise. Forget about it.
Example: /forums/topic/rectal-issues/
I stopped serving my dogs raw bones (or any bones) after 2 trips to the emergency vet due to them.
Not worth the risk, in my opinion.
Did you check the search engine? Example: /forums/search/bones/ Hope this helps.

[Anonymous]

I just wanted to make sure that you understand that the saliva and hair tests are not allergy tests.
/forums/search/allergies/
http://www.allergydogcentral.com/category/symptoms/

Canine Nutrigenomics by Dr. Jean Dodds: Science as Windowdressing

PS: Many dogs suffering with these issues end up at shelters or the pound, as people are unwilling, for a variety of reasons, usually financial, to take them to a dermatologist.
Best of luck.

[Anonymous]

BTW: I have been binge watching the tv show “Damages” on Netflix, the dog that plays Patty’s (Glen Close) dog Cory is an Australian Cattle Dog. Beautiful dog, reminds me of my Corgi.

[Anonymous]

Glad you had a positive experience. It really is important to find a vet that you trust, and listen to him. It can be so expensive nowadays…..I just cancelled my own checkup, but, I made sure my dogs got their annuals 🙂

[Anonymous]

Did you check the search engine to see a variety of opinions on the product you mentioned?
Example: /forums/search/nutriscan/

[Anonymous]

When my dog was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, I was devastated, at first they (emergency place) said they would remove the big tumor for $, then they said it had spread to her lungs and that there were no treatment options. I went to 2 or 3 other vets to get her comfort meds. It was the longest month of my life. It broke my heart. I have lost dogs before, but this one really affected me.

I hope the vet you contacted gets back to you. Peace.

[Anonymous]

“Treating Canine Lipomas”
“Another article in this issue addresses the treatment of a common benign tumor called a lipoma. These are aggregations of fat which typically occur in middle-aged and older dogs. The exact cause is not known. They are more common in certain breeds and possibly in overweight dogs. Research in humans suggests possible genetic risk factors, but the definitive cause is not known. This, of course, provides an open field for rampant speculation of how to treat and prevent these benign tumors”.
Excerpt from: A Vet Takes a Skeptical & Science-Based Look at Veterinary Medicine http://skeptvet.com/Blog/2015/04/science-through-the-looking-glass-the-integrative-veterinary-care-journal/

[Anonymous]

I would get the thing removed if your vet thinks she can tolerate the surgery. You said it is affecting her ability to walk, thereby causing discomfort.
I know of no food or diet that will make it go away….
Best of luck, with whatever you decide.

[Anonymous]

Diet? Have you seen a veterinary oncologist? They may have some treatment recommendations for her….. after a thorough physical examination, diagnostic testing, and review of her medical history.
PS: I am assuming your dog is receiving treatment by a veterinarian, what do they suggest?

[Anonymous]

I hope so, too. I bet she knows how much she is cared for.

[Anonymous]

Did you check the search engine? Example: /forums/search/bladder+stones/

[Anonymous]

I have a 9 pound poodle mix who does well on 1/4 cup of kibble and a tablespoon or two of wet food or chopped up cooked chicken breast, twice a day. Occasional chicken liver (broiled) as a topper instead, or chopped up cooked lean meat.

I give an occasional bite of chicken or something as a snack after a walk, carrots are okay, but I would just use the regular ones, the baby carrots are treated with something?

I don’t remember the exact amounts when she was 4 months, I think I fed her 3 or 4 small meals per day and tapered down to two meals per day when she was about 6-7 months old.

I like Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea for dry (base). I like Wysong for canned.
She’s a healthy girl at 7 years old, except for her environmental allergies :-/

PS: Start brushing his teeth every evening, see YouTube for how to videos, small breeds have lousy teeth.
You will learn what amounts work best, dogs have different metabolisms….my 20 pound dog eats only a little bit more per day.
If you don’t see the pup going to the water dish, add a splash of water to meals, some dogs don’t drink enough water. These small breeds are vulnerable to bladder stones down the road.

Tips: http://www.homeovet.net/dynamic/php/downloads/dog-c8470f2c75dbe4b683205c3919ee2310/dog_diet_complete.pdf

http://skeptvet.com/Blog/category/nutrition/

[Anonymous]

What does the vet that examined him advise? Has the dog had blood work done? A GI workup? What was the diagnosis and treatment prescribed? Where you referred to an Internal Medicine Specialist?

That’s where I would start.

[Anonymous]

Did you check the search engine? Example: /forums/search/bladder+stones/
I don’t necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed. Hope this helps.

[Anonymous]

Yes, maybe if you blend the chicken with a little water or chicken broth, make it a lumpy gravy consistency and mix it together with the prescription kibble, she will have to eat the kibble to get all of the chicken….you might be able to hide the meds in there too. Watch her though, you know how sneaky they can be.

[Anonymous]

I have friends that tell me their dogs are very picky eaters. But, I personally have never met a dog that didn’t like chicken 🙂
Look at it this way, it’s probably cheaper and better than a lot of dog foods, and as long as you are using the dog food as a base, the dog should be getting the other stuff that’s needed. I’m glad that your vet approves.
PS: I hope she beats this thing.

[Anonymous]

I didn’t rush to a dermatologist either. I spent a year doing various elimination diets, trying various expensive foods, going back and forth to the regular vet and the emergency vet, prednisone, benadryl, fish oil (which I still give) blah, blah, blah. Oh, I forgot, yes, ear infections, prescription drops…
At one point I had 2 air purifiers and a dehumidifier going at the same time (both went to the Goodwill). Daily baths, special shampoos, etc.
My dog found relief after seeing the specialist. Yes, the initial testing is expensive, but the maintenance isn’t bad at all.
It is an option, and it worked for my dog.
PS: I tried raw too, it made my dog vomit uncontrollably. And the raw beef marrow bones resulted in a blockage that required emergency veterinary care.

[Anonymous]

I look for skinless, boneless chicken breast in the reduced price meat section of my local Shaws. I have been doing this for years without any problems, Often I put it in the freezer first. I don’t even eat the stuff, I’m a vegetarian.
My 15 year old Peke (he has periods of confusion) sometimes goes to the fridg or sits in front of the stove in the middle of the night and barks. Demanding that I get up and cook for him!

[Anonymous]

Positive thoughts 🙂

The vet may tell you that when she is stable there is no reason why she can’t have the rabies shot. However, if it was my dog I would have concerns, considering how ill she was. Example: http://www.thedogplace.org/VACCINES/Rabies-exemption-form-states-2012.asp
Anyway, it’s worth discussing with your vet (imo). Maybe he would let you do a titer instead…

PS: Now you will have to cook some fresh chicken every 2 or 3 days. And the other pets in the household will want some too! LOL

[Anonymous]

Consider seeing a dermatologist for allergy testing (not a mail-in saliva test) for the most accurate results.
/forums/search/allergies/
http://www.allergydogcentral.com/category/symptoms/
PS: In my experience, sprays and OTC stuff, supplements don’t work. You could try a grain-free, potato free food. An elimination diet under the guidance of a vet might help, however if the allergies are environmental, it won’t make much difference, if any.

[Anonymous]

Glad to hear it. Thanks for the update.
BTW: When she is due for a rabies shot, ask the vet about a waiver.
Note: The labels on rabies vaccines state that they are for “the vaccination of healthy cats, dogs…” There are medical conditions for which vaccination can jeopardize the life or well-being of an animal.

[Anonymous]

It can cost $1000-$2000 (ball park figures) to check for everything and often the treatment options may be limited. People get upset, so they (the vets) check for the obvious things first. X-rays show a lot. Blood work shows a lot.

Another trick, broiled chicken liver, just a tiny bit mixed in with the prescription food. Dogs love it! But, I am not sure your vet would approve, it is an organ meat.

[Anonymous]

Consider seeing a dermatologist for allergy testing.
/forums/search/allergies/
http://www.allergydogcentral.com/category/symptoms/
PS: In my experience, sprays and OTC stuff, supplements don’t work.

[Anonymous]

You are doing everything you can to help her. Please take care of yourself, too.
I lost a dog suddenly to hemangiosarcoma around this time of year, 2 years ago.
Sometimes there is no explanation for these things. But, I hope your dog is different and has some more time.

[Anonymous]

You are welcome. If she is not going to the water dish and drinking water on her own, it wouldn’t hurt to add a splash of water to her meals.
if fact, you could soak the prescription kibble overnight in water in the fridg. Adequate hydration helps relieve nausea. Confirm this with your vet.
PS: If you soak the kibble in the boiled chicken water it might taste and smell better 🙂

[Anonymous]

The 2 main reasons a dog won’t eat are usually nausea and/or pain. The only other reason I can think of, is old age or chronic illness, they give up and want to go.
I don’t mean the occasional skipped meal, but no interest in food for more than 72 hours is always a concern.

I hope Sallie feels better soon.

[Anonymous]

How old is the dog? Is your vet a specialist? You may want to seek another opinion.
Just boil a chicken breast for an hour or two and pour a little of the water over her food.
If that agrees with her, break up the chicken meat and mix a spoonful in with the prescription stuff. Assuming your vet says it’s okay.

[Anonymous]

Make sure she is comfortable, ask about Tramadol for a pain med? If she is dying, aren’t comfort measures important? Tell the vet that is a priority.

PS: Nausea is often a side effect of some of the antibiotics.

[Anonymous]

Ask the vet if you can add a tablespoon or two of homemade chicken broth (no additives), or a tablespoon of boiled bland chopped up chicken breast or scrambled egg made with water?

Call the vet’s office and ask the vet to call you back when he has a minute.
PS: What medications is she on……some meds can cause nausea resulting in poor appetite.
Go over this with the vet, sometimes they can make changes.

[Anonymous]

Maybe your dogs symptoms have nothing to do with the diet? I would listen to a veterinarian that has personally examined your pets and reviewed their medical history and diagnostic tests.

[Anonymous]

“Because of that my only choice was to cook for him and did a saliva test by Dr. Jean Dodds and the results were not good news at all. He is sensitive to most carbs (Rice, Oatmeal, Potatoes, sweet potatoes), all fish, chicken, beef, Duck, Venison”.

Canine Nutrigenomics by Dr. Jean Dodds: Science as Windowdressing

[Author]

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