Dogs N Claws: July 2012

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Disabled Man Arrested After Debate Over Service Dog at Little Rock Library

"Let me get my crutches here," he said leaning over the arm of the recliner with a grunt and a jingle of the leash in his left hand.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/disabled-man-arrested-after-debate-over-service-dog-at-little-rock-library?fromrss=1

Smelly Dog?

**By Dr. Becker**

> Dogs don't smell like freshly showered people – they're not supposed to!
>
> They have their own canine smell, which varies from dog to dog, but it's not unpleasant. In fact, many people will tell you they love to bury their nose in their pet's fur and inhale that wonderful doggy scent.
>
> A healthy dog who is regularly brushed and bathed (and hasn't just rolled in a pile of poop or dead animal remains, as many love to do) should not smell bad. If your dog has an unpleasant odor, there's a reason and you need to find out what it is.

## Is It a Yeast Infection?

> A [yeast infection][1] is a very common cause of stinky dogs. Yeast has a very pungent, musty, unique odor that has been compared to moldy bread, cheese popcorn, or corn chips. Some people actually refer to a yeast infection on a dog's paws as "Frito Feet."
>
> Stinky paws or musty-smelling ears are usually a sign of yeast overgrowth. So is scratching. Itchy ears, itchy paws and [butt scooting][2] are all signs of a potential problem with yeast.

## Speaking of Butt Scooting …

> Inflamed, infected or impacted [anal glands][2] will also cause an unpleasant odor to follow your dog around (literally).
>
> The anal glands or sacs sit just inside the rectum, one on either side of the anus at about 8:00 and 4:00 o'clock. The glands secrete a very smelly, oily substance thought to be a territorial marker. If there's a buildup of that substance in the anal glands, and especially if your dog spends any time licking or digging around back there, you'll notice a smell that is often compared to rotting fish.

## While We're on the Topic of Your Dog's Rear-end …

> Passing gas (flatulence) can also be the reason for a smelly dog. If you've ever driven any distance with a gassy dog in a vehicle with the windows rolled up, you know what I'm talking about. Some flatulence is normal, but a chronically stinky situation is not.
>
> There are several reasons dogs create excessive amounts of gas, including poor diet and intestinal parasites. If your dog's smelly gas is more or less constant, it's time to make an appointment with your vet, especially if he has other symptoms of a GI issue like abdominal distension, diarrhea with or without blood or mucus, constipation, or weight loss.

## Stinky Ears

> If your dog has an unpleasant odor but you can't seem to locate the source of it, check her ears. As I mentioned earlier, a yeast overgrowth in the ears can cause a musty odor.
>
> A bacterial infection with ear discharge might also be the source of the smell. [Ear infections][3] were the number one reason dogs visited the vet last year.
>
> [Ear mites][4] can also cause a waxy secretion and strong odor.

## Bad Doggy Breath

> Your dog's breath will never smell like yours after a session with your toothbrush and dental floss. Dogs don't care about minty fresh breath.
>
> But if your pet's mouth is clean and he's otherwise healthy, his doggy breath should not be offensive. There really shouldn't be much mouth odor at all unless he's just eaten, in which case you might smell remnants of his meal on his breath.
>
> Chronic bad breath in pets has the same causes as halitosis in humans. Most often it's poor [oral hygiene][5], but sometimes something wrong in the GI tract can also cause bad breath.

## Poor Diet and/or Food Intolerances

> What you feed your dog affects every inch of her, inside and out. A dog who is fed a biologically inappropriate diet or one that contains ingredients she's sensitive to is at risk for a wide variety of illnesses, some of which can give her an unpleasant odor.
>
> This is especially true for dogs with poor skin and coat condition due to a problem that started with their diet. Often these pets are deficient in [omega-3 fatty acids][6].

## Illness

> Some illnesses and chronic conditions can cause an unpleasant smell, including certain cancers, diabetes and kidney disease.

## Behaving Like a Dog

> Sometimes dogs stink themselves up deliberately.
>
> Some dogs will roll in another animal's poop if they get the chance. Some will [eat another animal's poop][7] or even their own.
>
> Some dogs roll in dead animal remains. Others pick up dead, decomposing animals in their mouths and carry them around, or present them to their owners as gifts.
>
> If your favorite furry friend has one of these distasteful tendencies, all you can really do is supervise him closely and limit his opportunities to channel his wilder nature. If he does manage to roll in something offensive or sample some random poop, a bath or a round of tooth brushing should get rid of the smell.
>
> One exception to this is, of course, the dreaded skunk encounter. For a simple, effective remedy for skunk smell, view my video [Far Better than Tomato Juice as a Skunk Rinse][8].

## A Chronic Bad Odor Shouldn't Be Ignored

> If your dog smells bad most of the time or you notice the same odor intermittently (which can happen with, for example, anal gland problems), I urge you to make an appointment to have your dog seen by your vet.
>
> It's important to your pet's health and quality of life to find and resolve the underlying cause of chronic bad odor.

Sources:

* [Natural Dog Health Remedies][9]

**Related Articles:**

![][10] [Itchy, Smelly Dog? This May Be the Problem...][1]

![][10] [Why Do Dogs (and Cats) Eat Poop?][7]

![][10] [How to Perform an at Home Wellness Exam on Your Pet][11]

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/08/01/healthy-dog-vs-smelly-dog.aspx

Sleepy Dogs

This is a cute compilation of sleepy and sleeping dogs. Enjoy!

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/08/01/sleepy-dogs.aspx

Cancer and Your Pet: Two Things to Avoid

**By Dr. Becker**

> I recently ran across an article about the link between nutrition and cancer in dogs and cats. According to PetfoodIndustry.com:
>
>> _"Despite significant advancements in companion animal cancer treatment over the last decade, the relationships between nutrition and veterinary cancer control and prevention remain in their infancy. Developing dietary strategies for reducing companion animal cancer incidence and mortality—overall and for specific cancers—will be an exciting and challenging endeavor that will take extensive research coordination using evidence-based designs."_
>
> Since this article -- though written by a professor at the Animal Cancer Center at Colorado State University – was published in a trade journal for the pet food industry, I think we can assume there will be pet food companies heavily involved in _developing dietary strategies _to address the growing problem of cancer in pets.
>
> And I doubt very seriously those pet food manufacturers will develop strategies that encourage pet owners to feed [real, whole, fresh food][1] and not the processed stuff they sell.
>
> Expect to see "cancer prevention" processed pet diets coming soon to a store and/or veterinary office near you. It's just a matter of time.

## Obesity Increases Cancer Risk

> The PetfoodIndustry.com article also points out that, "_Caloric restriction has demonstrated the most consistent delay in the progression and prevention of tumor development across species."_
>
> Fewer calories, it has been shown, cause the cells of the body to block tumor growth.
>
> Too many calories, on the other hand, lead to obesity – and obesity is strongly linked to increased cancer risk in humans. There is a connection between too much glucose, increased insulin sensitivity, inflammation and oxidative stress – all factors in obesity – and cancer. And while there's been no direct link made yet to obesity and cancer in dogs and cats, it is assumed a link exists.
>
> So in addition to the clearly established connections between obesity and other health problems like [diabetes][2], arthritis, high blood pressure, [kidney disease][3], reduced quality of life and shortened lifespan, there is also increased risk that an overweight pet will develop cancer.
>
> And what is the biggest health problem for pets today? Overweight and obesity. Certainly the increase in cancer rates among dogs and cats is in part attributable to the [obesity epidemic][4].
>
> Overfeeding your pet is not a loving thing to do. Food is no substitute for quality time spent with your dog or cat. And keep in mind that fat doesn't just sit on your pet's body harmlessly. It produces inflammation that can promote tumor development.
>
> In order to be the best guardian you can be for your pet, you must insure she stays at a healthy weight. Parents of too-heavy and obese pets need to understand the tremendous harm they are doing to their companion animal's health and quality of life … before it's too late.

## Inflammation Leads to Cancer

> Anything that creates or promotes inflammation in the body increases the risk for serious diseases, including cancer.
>
> Recent research points to cancer as a chronic inflammatory disease. Inflammation kills the cells of the body. It also surrounds cells with toxic inflammatory by-products that inhibit the flow of oxygen, nutrients and waste products between cells and blood. This creates an environment in which abnormal cells proliferate.
>
> Preventing inflammation is crucial to the prevention of cancer.
>
> One major contributor to inflammatory conditions is a diet too high in omega-6 fatty acids and too low in [omega-3s][5]. Omega-6s increase inflammation, cell proliferation and blood clotting, while the omega-3s do the reverse.
>
> Unfortunately, the typical processed western diet – for both humans and their pets – is loaded down with omega-6 fatty acids and deficient in omega-3s.

## Nutrition for Cancer Prevention

> The best diet for cancer prevention is a diet that provides the nutritional components required to maintain healthy cells and repair unhealthy ones.
>
> Cancer cells need the glucose in carbohydrates to grow and proliferate. If you limit or eliminate that energy source, you do the same with the cancer's growth. That's one of the reasons I always discourage feeding diets high in carbohydrates. Carbs are [pro-inflammatory][6] nutrients that also feed cancer cells.
>
> Carbs you want to keep out of your pet's diet include processed grains, fruits with fructose, and starchy veggies like potatoes. All dry pet food contains some form of starch (it's not possible to create kibble without it), which is one of the reasons I'm not a fan of dry pet food.
>
> Cancer cells generally can't use dietary fats for energy, so appropriate amounts of good quality fats are nutritionally healthy for dogs and cats.
>
> A healthy, species-appropriate diet for dogs and cats – one that is anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer – consists of real, whole foods, preferably served raw. It looks something like this:
>
> High in high-quality protein, including muscle meat, organs and bone (protein should make up 75 percent of a healthy dog's diet, and 88 percent of a cat's diet)
> A few beneficial additions like probiotics, digestive enzymes and super green foods
>
> Moderate levels of animal fat
> A vitamin/mineral supplement
>
> High levels of EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids)
> High moisture content
>
> A few fresh cut veggies and a bit of fruit, pureed
> No grains; no starches

## Immune System Support for Cancer Prevention

> The health of your pet's immune system is vital to her ability to defend against disease. Balanced, species-appropriate nutrition is the foundation for a healthy immune system. You can also help keep your dog's or cat's immune system balanced and resilient by:
>
> * Insuring regular and adequate [exercise][7]
> * [Brushing your pet's teeth][8] every day or several times a week
> * Eliminating exposure to [chemical toxins][9], including [tobacco smoke][10]
> * Reducing the number of [unnecessary vaccines][11]
> * Taking a proactive approach to your pet's health with regular [at-home wellness exams][12] and twice yearly wellness visits to your vet to insure your dog's or cat's organs are functioning well and he's not harboring any silent infections or other illness

Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com August 6, 2011][13]

**Related Articles:**

![][14] [This is One Lump You Can't Ignore][15]

![][14] [New Simple Blood Test Can Detect Cancer in 'Man's Best Friend'…][16]

![][14] [How to Check Your Pet for Signs of Cancer][17]

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/08/01/pet-nutrition-in-cancer-prevention.aspx

Pet owner turns over every rock for return of pet turtle

More than a week of signs, newspaper ads and a pet detective paid off Tuesday for an Oakwood woman searching for a missing 10-year-old turtle.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/pet-owner-turns-over-every-rock-for-return-of-pet-turtle?fromrss=1

Budweiser Clydesdales on Display in Green Bay

The horses will be stabled at the park through Sunday. On Friday, there will be special events including a parade, pony rides, a trick [horse][1] and [beer][2] sampling.

[1]: http://www.topix.com/pets/horse
[2]: http://www.topix.com/living/beer

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/budweiser-clydesdales-on-display-in-green-bay?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-75bccc9f7cfba8d4737915a63df3139a

Why None of My Patients Get This Deadly Condition

**By Dr. Becker**

> Today we're going to discuss autoimmune hemolytic anemia or AIHA. The condition is also called immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).
>
> AIHA is a potentially life-threatening disease in which an animal's immune system destroys its own red blood cells. Antibodies produced by the immune system to fight pathogens instead target the body's red blood cells and destroy them. Red blood cells are necessary to carry oxygen to the tissues of the body, and animals cannot survive without adequate oxygenation of all of the body's tissues.

## Triggers for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

> Autoimmune hemolytic anemia can be either a primary or secondary disease. If it's a primary disease, there is no underlying cause that can be identified. Primary AIHA is rare in cats.
>
> In secondary AIHA, the immune system produces red blood cell antibodies in response to an underlying condition such as cancer, chronic inflammatory disease, a drug reaction, or exposure to an infectious agent. Newborns can acquire this disease from their mother's first milk, which is colostrum, although this is pretty rare.
>
> The surface of the red blood cells becomes altered by an underlying disease process or a toxin. These alterations catch the attention of the immune system, which sees them as foreign invaders or pathogens. The immune system targets the altered red blood cells and destroys them through a process known as hemolysis, either within the red blood cell vessels or as they circulate through the spleen or liver.
>
> Some of the known underlying triggers for secondary autoimmune hemolytic anemia are infectious agents like leptospirosis, babesia, ehrlichia, and the feline leukemia virus. Also heartworm disease, IBD, certain drugs like the sulfa drugs, heparin, and quinidine, hypersensitivity reactions (for example, to bee stings), and vaccines can all over-stimulate the immune system and cause AIHA.

## Link Between Vaccines and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

> According to the traditional veterinary community no "statistically significant association" has been proven between vaccines and AIHA, and they are only willing to consider a link if the onset of the disease occurs within four weeks of a vaccination.
>
> Now, those of us in the holistic veterinary community absolutely believe there is a direct and prevalent link between vaccines and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
>
> As a holistic vet working in a large traditional vaccine clinic early in my career, I saw a lot of cases of AIHA – one or two a month. However, for the last 11 years since I've been in private practice, I've not seen a single case in my own patients. I believe this is because in my own practice, we titer rather than automatically give traditional adjuvanted vaccines.
>
> The cases of AIHA I see now are referred from traditional vet practices that are probably continuing to [over-vaccinate][1].

## Which Pets Are More Likely to Get AIHA?

> Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a life-threatening condition. It is much more common in dogs than cats. When it does occur in cats, it usually happens when they're young, and the Somali breed is predisposed to the disease.
>
> AIHA can occur in dogs of all breeds, both sexes, and at any age. But studies suggest it is more prevalent in middle-aged spayed female dogs. There may be a risk of acquiring the disease more commonly in May and June. Holistic veterinarians correlate this to early spring vaccines rather than simply the season of the year. But certainly, traditional veterinarians would argue the opposite.
>
> Breeds predisposed to autoimmune hemolytic anemia include the cocker spaniel, miniature poodle, Irish setter, and the Old English sheepdog.

## Symptoms

> The symptoms of autoimmune hemolytic anemia are similar to those seen in other types of anemia and can include:
>
> Loss of appetite
> Rapid breathing
>
> Vomiting
> Pale gums
>
> Lack of energy, tendency to tire easily
> Yellow tinge to the gums and whites of the eyes
>
> Excessive thirst or urination
> Dark-colored urine
>
> Weakness
> Bloody or dark, tarry stool
>
>
>
> Jaundice, which is a yellowing of the gums and eye tissue, occurs when the liver can't efficiently process bilirubin. Bilirubin is the yellow byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells.
>
> A healthy liver can process the byproducts of red blood cells as they reach the end of their normal lifespan. But in an animal with autoimmune hemolytic anemia, the liver can't keep up with the amount of bilirubin produced by the immune system's destruction of the red blood cells. This is why pets with autoimmune hemolytic anemia have a yellow discoloration of the mucus membranes, which is especially noticeable in the gums and eyes. You can also sometimes see it on the inside of the earflaps in both dogs and cats.
>
> Other symptoms vets look for are an enlarged liver, enlarged spleen, enlarged lymph nodes, and potentially an intermittent heart murmur.

## Diagnosis

> A diagnosis of autoimmune hemolytic anemia can't be made until other causes of anemia have been ruled out. Unfortunately, this means a number of diagnostic tests will be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Your vet will take a complete history and perform a medical examination.
>
> Diagnostic tests will include a complete blood count, a serum biochemical profile, and a urinalysis. A packed cell volume or PCV is a simple and fast test to determine the red blood cell quantity. Testing for reticulocyte count will show if there are enough new red blood cells being produced, and a saline agglutination test may show whether the red blood cells are clumping normally.
>
> Other tests may include looking for infectious diseases and parasites, a Coombs test to check for an immune system reaction in the bloodstream, and a flow cytometry test. X-rays and ultrasounds are sometimes ordered to rule out evidence of cancer or metastatic disease (cancer that has spread).
>
> If your cat is suspected of having anemia, a test for feline leukemia and FIV may be needed to check for an underlying cause.

## Treatment

> Conventional treatment for AIHA is usually aggressive. The goal is to stop the destruction of red blood cells, so they can regain their ability to efficiently move oxygen to all the body's tissues.
>
> If there is any known underlying condition contributing to the destruction of red blood cells, this must be addressed. And the animal's health must be supported until their red blood cell supply is back to normal.
>
> If the disease is life threatening at the time of diagnosis, the pet may need blood transfusions immediately. This can be risky because while the immune system is still attacking red blood cells, an increase in the number of them through transfusion can trigger an even more aggressive immune system response.
>
> Sometimes a blood substitute called Oxyglobin is used. This is a substance that has the ability to carry oxygen to all of the body's tissues and potentially avoid the risk associated with transfusion of real blood to your dog or cat.
>
> Drug therapy is also typically introduced in the form of a corticosteroid like prednisone to intentionally suppress the immune system, so it will slow down or stop attacking the red blood cells. These drugs are usually given in very high doses, and if the animal's response isn't sufficient, even stronger immuno-suppressants are administered, including chemotherapeutic agents.
>
> Needless to say, all these drugs have pretty significant side effects, and some of them are quite serious.
>
> Some minor success has been seen with the use of intravenous immunoglobulins, which come from human blood. In rare instances, usually only in specialty veterinary hospitals, a process called plasmapharesis, which removes the antibodies from the blood, is also used. Sometimes a splenectomy is performed.

## Supportive Care for AIHA Patients

> Supportive care for autoimmune hemolytic anemia is really critical, and can include recurrent transfusions, nursing support, hospitalization, medications and IV fluids to keep the animal as hydrated and healthy as possible.
>
> Holistic veterinarians offer adjunctive therapies while the initial crisis is being treated.
>
> The Chinese herb Yunnan paiyao has been proved to effectively reduce bleeding anywhere in the body. Homeopathic phosphorous can also be very beneficial in this condition, as can the traditional Chinese medicinal formula Qing Ying Tang.

Many animals with autoimmune hemolytic anemia unfortunately require long-term or even intermittent lifetime therapy, because relapses are really common.
>
> It's critical, in my opinion, that these animals' immune systems never be unnecessarily stimulated again by any type of vaccine.

**Related Articles:**

![][2] [How Often Should You Vaccinate Your Cat or Dog?][3]

![][2] [Why Re-Vaccination is the WORST Reason for Routine Vet Visits…][4]

![][2] [Avoid This Popular Pet Drug Until You Learn the Shocking Details…][5]

[** Comments (25)][6]**

[1]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2009/08/04/when-it-comes-to-vaccinating-your-pet-less-is-more.aspx
[2]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif
[3]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/05/31/what-your-vet-didnt-tell-you-about-all-those-puppy-and-kitty-vaccines.aspx
[4]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/02/24/reasons-to-visit-your-veterinarian.aspx
[5]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/17/stop-using-pet-steroids-until-you-read-these-disturbing-truths.aspx
[6]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/30/vaccine-causes-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/30/vaccine-causes-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia.aspx

Why None of My Patients Get This Deadly Condition

**By Dr. Becker**

## Triggers for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

## Link Between Vaccines and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

## Which Pets Are More Likely to Get AIHA?

## Symptoms

## Diagnosis

## Treatment

## Supportive Care for AIHA Patients

**Related Articles:**

[** Comments (24)][6]**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/30/vaccine-causes-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia.aspx

Cat Tunnel Sofa Gives Cats More Comfort Than Humans

People love their pets. Oftentimes, they even treat them better than themselves or their own children, pampering them with toys, treats, clothing and even furniture of their own.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/cat-tunnel-sofa-gives-cats-more-comfort-than-humans?fromrss=1

Diagnosing and Managing Tetanus and Botulism in Horses

Editor's note: This article is part of TheHorse.com's ongoing coverage of topics presented at the 2012 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum, held May 30 - June 2 in [New Orleans, La][1].

[1]: http://www.topix.com/city/new-orleans-la

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/diagnosing-and-managing-tetanus-and-botulism-in-horses?fromrss=1

New Parasite Prevalence Maps Help Pet Owners Prepare

**By Dr. Becker**

> The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has redesigned its website[1][1] for pet owners and now features a set of maps you can check for information on parasite prevalence in a specific area.
>
> If you're only interested in heartworm disease, you can select your state from a drop-down menu on the right side of the home page to see the infection risk for your state. If you'd like more extensive information, you can view the entire U.S. map.
>
> If you choose the second option, you can find out the risk for several different diseases for dogs and cats individually, by state. The maps include infection rates for:
>
> * Tick borne diseases (Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis)
> * Intestinal parasites (roundworm, hookworm and [whipworm][2])
> * Heartworm
>
> You can also click on a state and see infection rates for individual counties, then hover your mouse over a county to see its name.
>
> According to Dr. Christopher Carpenter, executive director of CAPC, _"Our unique parasite prevalence maps provide localized statistics about diseases that affect dogs and cats in consumers' backyards, and we update them monthly."_

## Keep Your Pet Safe from Overuse of Parasite Preventives

> I think these maps are useful for pet owners looking for general information about the prevalence of a certain disease in a certain location. The intent of the maps is to _"… help drive clinic visits,"_ according to Dr. Carpenter, because _"People respond to and appreciate it when experts share pertinent information."_
>
> He goes on to say that CAPC hopes veterinarians leverage the maps _"… to strengthen client relationships and consistently 'tap consumers on the shoulder' with facts that underscore the risk of parasitic disease that exists everywhere."_
>
> Since the Companion Animal Parasite Council is sponsored by a "Who's Who" list of major veterinary drug manufacturers, I think it's safe to assume the real intent of the maps is to get pet owners to buy into the belief that every dog and cat in the country should be on parasite preventives year-round.
>
> And while I agree pet owners appreciate learning information pertinent to the health of their furry family members, I think it's extremely irresponsible of veterinarians to encourage the overuse of parasite preventives. These drugs, like all drugs, have side effects.
>
> Just because a drug is used as a preventive doesn't automatically put it in the category of "better safe than sorry." This is a lesson the traditional veterinary community is slowly learning about vaccines. Every single thing we put into or onto an animal should be carefully assessed to insure its benefits outweigh its risks.
>
> And keep in mind that even pets loaded down to the point of toxicosis with chemical preventives still frequently wind up with pests and parasites. There is no absolutely foolproof method for keeping every single pet protected from every single pest.
>
> Around this time last year I saw my first dog patient with Lyme disease AND heartworm disease – conditions she acquired while taking a monthly, year-round heartworm preventive drug AND a spot-on flea/tick preventive prescribed by her regular vet. This is a good illustration of the ineffectiveness of some of these drugs, as well as the fact that [parasites are growing resistant][3] to them because they are being overused.

## Preventing Tick Borne Diseases

> * In the spring, summer and fall, avoid tick-infested areas.
> * If you live where ticks are a significant problem, check your pet for the little blood suckers twice each day. Look over his entire body, including hidden crevices like those in the ear, underneath his collar, in the webs of his feet, and underneath his tail. If you find a tick, make sure to [remove it safely][4].
> * Use a safe tick repellent like [Natural Flea and Tick Defense][4]. If you live in a Lyme endemic region of the U.S., your veterinarian will probably recommend you use a chemical repellent. Remember: it's important to investigate the risks and benefits of any medication before you give it to your pet. Natural repellents are NOT the same as toxic preventives … they are not a guarantee your pet won't be bitten by ticks….they only reduce the likelihood of infestation. So frequent tick checks are really important.
> * Create strong vitality and resilience in your dog or cat by feeding a [species-appropriate diet][5]. Parasites are attracted to weaker animals. By enhancing your pet's vitality, you can help her avoid the ill effects of a tick borne disease.

## Preventing Intestinal Parasites

> * Puppies and kittens can get intestinal parasites from an infected mother – either across the placenta or from their mother's milk.
> * Beyond that, most pets acquire intestinal worms by eating infected poop. So the best way to prevent infection is to make sure your pet's environment is clean and 'feces-free.' Pick up your pet's poop and make sure she doesn't have access to infective feces from wild or stray animals around your property or anywhere else outdoors.
> * Whipworm eggs in the environment are extremely resilient and resistant to most cleaning methods and freezing temperatures as well. They can be dried out with strong agents like agricultural lime, but the best way to decontaminate a whipworm-infested area is to replace the soil with new soil or another substrate.
> * Keep your pet's GI tract in good shape and resistant to parasites by feeding a balanced, species-appropriate diet. I also recommend either periodic or regular [probiotic supplementation][6] to insure a good balance of healthy bacteria in your pet's colon, as well as a [good quality pet digestive enzyme][7].
> * Have your vet check a sample of your pet's stool twice a year for GI parasites.

## What You Need to Know About Heartworm Disease Prevention

> According to [heartworm preventive dosing maps][8], there are only a few areas of the U.S. where dosing your dog with 9 months to year-round heartworm medicine might be advisable. Those locations are in Texas and Florida, and a few other spots along the Gulf coast. The rest of the country runs high exposure risk at from 3 to 7 months. The majority of states are at 6 months or less.
>
> Preventives don't actually stop your dog from getting heartworms. What these chemicals do is kill off the worm larvae at the microfilaria stage. These products are insecticides designed to kill heartworm larvae inside your pet. As such, they have the potential for short and long-term side effects damaging to your canine companion's health.
>
> To reduce your pet's risk of exposure to heartworms, control mosquitoes:
>
> * Use a [non-toxic insect barrier][9] in your yard and around the outside of your home.
> * Don't take your pet around standing water. Eliminate as much standing water as possible around your home and yard by cleaning your rain gutters regularly and aerating ornamental ponds and decorative water gardens.
> * Stay out of wet marshes and thickly wooded areas.
> * Keep your pet indoors during early morning and early evening hours when mosquitoes are thickest.
> * Make liberal use of a safe, effective pet pest repellent like my [Natural Flea and Tick Defense][4].

## If You MUST Use a Chemical Heartworm Preventive …

> If you live in an area of the U.S. where mosquitoes are common and you know your pet's risk of exposure to heartworm disease is significant, here are my recommendations for protecting your precious furry family member:
>
> * With guidance from a holistic vet, try using natural preventives like heartworm nosodes rather than chemicals. Make sure to do heartworm testing every 3 to 4 months (not annually) as natural heartworm preventives can't guarantee your pet will never acquire the disease.
> * If your dog's kidneys and liver are healthy, try using a chemical preventive at the lowest effective dosage. This could mean having the drug compounded if necessary for dogs weighing in at the low end of dosing instructions. Give the treatment at 6-week intervals rather than at 4 weeks, for the [minimum number of months required][8] during mosquito season.
> * Remember, heartworms live in your pet's bloodstream, so natural GI (gastrointestinal) dewormers, such as diatomaceous earth, and anti-parasitic herbs (such as wormwood and garlic) are not effective at killing larvae in your pet's bloodstream.
> * Avoid all-in-one chemical products claiming to get rid of every possible GI worm and external parasites as well. As an example, many heartworm preventives also contain dewormers for intestinal parasites. Remember – less is more. The goal is to use the least amount of chemical necessary that prevents heartworm. Adding other chemicals to the mix adds to the toxic load your pets's body must contend with. Also avoid giving your pet a chemical flea/tick preventive during the same week.
> * Follow up a course of heartworm preventive pills with natural liver detox agents like milk thistle and SAMe, in consultation with your holistic vet.
> * Always have your vet do a heartworm test before beginning any preventive treatment. A protocol I put in place in my clinic last year is to run a SNAP 4Dx blood test every 6 months on dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors during warmer weather. The 4Dx tests for heartworm and tick borne diseases. Because parasites are becoming resistant to overused chemical preventives, the sooner you can identify infection in your pet, the sooner a protocol can be instituted to safely treat the infection with fewer long-term side effects.

**References: **

* * *

* [1][10] [Pets and Parasites][11]
*

Sources:

* [dvm360 May 1, 2012][12]

**Related Articles:**

![][13] [Lyme Disease on the Rise][14]

![][13] [Why Haven't Pet Owners Been Told These Facts about Heartworm?][8]

![][13] [New Warning About Serious Drug Side Effects - Is Your Dog's Breed At Risk?][15]

[** Comments (20)][16]**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/18/pets-parasite-infection.aspx

Heartbroken Poole girls appeal for help to find missing cat

THREE girls are desperate for news of their pet cat, which has been sighted recently after going missing from their Poole home seven weeks ago.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/heartbroken-poole-girls-appeal-for-help-to-find-missing-cat?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-d232afde9283b56ef8e499aeb5ba2ade

Dog Changes Life for Kirkwood Boy With Autism

It was the first time in four years that Tommy Schiller, 10, of [Kirkwood][1], slept through the night, and it was because of a dog.

[1]: http://www.topix.com/city/kirkwood-mo

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/dog-changes-life-for-kirkwood-boy-with-autism?fromrss=1

London Police Rescue Hamster After It Falls 12 Feet, Escapes Chasing Cat [Hamsters]

Rolo the hamster had quite the adventure over the weekend, apparently. First Rolo fell twelve feet out of a first floor window.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/london-police-rescue-hamster-after-it-falls-12-feet-escapes-chasing-cat-hamsters?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-3a49a55adbacd88a246164959059e9db

RSPCA 'rehomed family's pet cat'

Mark Smith, of Ravensbourne Drive, Woodley, says he, his wife Fiona and their son Reiss, have "hit a brick wall" with the local branch of the charity since they discovered eight-year-old Henry was missing in June.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/rspca-rehomed-familys-pet-cat?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-8fd335c4700f760cbaf01a14352195b8

Saturday, July 28, 2012

FDA Releases Chicken Jerky Treat Test Results

**By Dr. Becker**

> I have a minor update for you in the long-running, tragic, frustrating, infuriating situation with toxic chicken jerky treats from China.
>
> According to NBC News, _"Federal Food and Drug Administration officials unexpectedly posted summaries this week of lab results of nearly 300 jerky treat samples collected and tested in the U.S. between April 2007 and June 2012."_
>
> The FDA released the data[1][1] a day after it refused to release to NBCNews.com the results of February inspections of Chinese plants that make the chicken jerky treats. _"The agency said releasing the information would violate rules protecting trade secrets and confidential commercial information and that it would interfere with enforcement proceedings. That data remains confidential,"_ according to NBC.
>
> The results do little more than confirm the FDA hasn't identified what is making so many dogs sick, while the number of pet illnesses and deaths linked to the treats has now climbed to over 1,800.

## "You can't find what you don't look for."

> Pet owners and advocates are unimpressed with the FDA's efforts to find the source of the illness caused by the treats.
>
> _"When I scanned down through the list of testing, they all seemed to be centered around the same handful of tests,"_ said Susan Thixton of [TruthaboutPetFood.com][2]. She thinks the FDA must broaden its view to include other potential toxins. _"You can't find what you don't look for,"_ she said.
>
> According to Thixton, in order to find the contaminant in the massive 2007 pet food recall, scientists had to work backwards. There was no precedent for testing for melamine. Investigators analyzed the kidney tissue of pets killed by tainted food. They found crystals in the kidney tissue that ultimately led to the discovery of melamine contamination.
>
> Instead of testing and re-testing for the same small group of known toxins, why isn't the FDA taking a similar approach to investigating chicken jerky treats? It's now five long years of no progress finding the contaminant in the treats, while beloved family pets continue to get ill and die.
>
> The only real finding in the FDA's released test results was some undeclared propylene glycol in a dozen samples. Propylene glycol keeps food soft and chewy. It's also antifreeze that at certain exposure levels can be toxic to pets.
>
> Phyllis Entis of [efoodalert.net][3] points out that there aren't any studies available on the effect of propylene glycol when mixed with other pet food ingredients. Entis also asks this highly relevant question, given the extreme processing pet food and treats undergo:
>
>> _"… has anyone at FDA thought to examine the chemical reactions involving propylene glycol that may take place during the manufacture of pet treats? Dow Chemical lists several reactions that could occur under favorable conditions of heat and oxidation. Has anyone investigated the effects of irradiation on propylene glycol? Some manufacturers irradiate their pet treats to ensure microbiological safety. There are, no doubt, several possible avenues of research here."_

## Is the FDA Even Up to the Task?

> In 2009, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released an audit report [2][4] on the FDA's handling of the 2007 pet food recall. Here is an excerpt from the Executive Summary:
>
>> _FDA has developed procedures for monitoring recalls and assessing a firm's recall effectiveness. However, FDA did not always follow its procedures in overseeing three of the five recalls that we reviewed. Furthermore, FDA's procedures were not always adequate for monitoring large recalls. FDA's lack of authority, coupled with its sometimes lax adherence to its recall guidance and internal procedures and the inadequacy of some of those procedures, limited FDA's ability to ensure that contaminated pet food was promptly removed from retailers' shelves._
>
> Both Thixton and Entis believe the FDA's lack of resources dedicated to investigating the jerky treat problem and its lack of a systematic approach to the investigation are behind the lack of progress to date.

## I'm Repeating Myself, but …

> I can't in good conscience end this article without my usual warning to pet owners:
>
> Please **DO NOT BUY OR FEED** chicken jerky treats, chicken tenders, chicken strips or chicken treats made in China to your pet – and this goes for any treat you aren't 100 percent sure originated entirely in this country. Buying pet food made in the U.S. won't remove all risk of winding up with a tainted product, but it will certainly improve your chances of keeping your pet safe.

**References: **

* * *

* [1][5] [Jerky Pet Food Lab Samples Analyzed - 1/1/2007 - 7/2/2012][6]
* [2][7] [08-12-2009 Review of the Food and Drug Administration's Monitoring of Pet Food Recalls][8] ****
*

Sources:

* [NBCNews.com July 19, 2012][9]

**Related Articles:**

![][10] [The Latest on Chicken Jerky Pet Treats from China][11]

![][10] [Toxic Chicken Jerky Treats: Pet Owners Square Off Against FDA][12]

![][10] [Warning: If You Feed Your Pet These Popular Treats - Please Stop Now][13]

[** Comments (46)][14]**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/27/chicken-jerky-treats-test-results.aspx

How to choose the right puppy for your home and family

All puppies are so cute and cuddly with their own characteristics and personalities.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/how-to-choose-the-right-puppy-for-your-home-and-family?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-d53a7a3be96d4ddb5fc3226f31ac26a2

Does Your Dog Comfort You When You Cry?

**By Dr. Becker**

> If your dog seems concerned when you cry, chances are you're not imagining things. New research indicates dogs actually respond in a unique way to human tears.
>
> Researchers at the University of London found dogs are more apt to approach a person who is crying than one who is talking or humming. And even more interesting is that the dogs in their study[1][1] displayed submissive behaviors with people who were crying.
>
> The researchers used humming because it's a relatively unique behavior the dogs probably had not been exposed to. It would be a curiosity for them and pique their interest. According to study researcher and psychologist Deborah Custance, _"The fact that the dogs differentiated between crying and humming indicates that their response to crying was not purely driven by curiosity. Rather, the crying carried greater emotional meaning for the dogs and provoked a stronger overall response than either humming or talking."_

## Your Dog May Be Trying to Comfort You

> Custance and Jennifer Mayer, the University of London researchers, recruited 18 dogs and their owners for their experiment. The dogs were Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, a few other popular breeds, and mixed breeds.
>
> The experiments were conducted in the dog owners' living rooms. Mayer would visit each home and ignore the dog so it would quickly lose interest in her. Then she took turns with the owner talking, pretending to cry, and humming.
>
> Of the 18 dogs, 15 approached their owner or Mayer while they were pretending to cry. Only six approached while either was humming. These results suggest it's the emotion of crying, not curiosity, that prompted the dogs to respond.
>
> Even more fascinating is that the dogs always approached the person who was crying – not the quiet one. This seems to indicate the dogs were trying to provide comfort rather than seek it.
>
>> _"The dogs approached whoever was crying regardless of their identity. Thus they were responding to the person's emotion, not their own needs, which is suggestive of empathic-like comfort-offering behavior,"_ Mayer concluded.

## Is Your Dog Showing Empathy?

> Thirteen of the 15 dogs who approached the crying person displayed submissive body language, tucking their tails or bowing the heads. (The remaining two showed alert or playful behavior.)
>
> Submission is another behavior consistent with empathy. However, the University of London research team was careful to explain their study provides no definitive answers as to whether dogs truly feel empathy. They do think their experiment paves the way for more study of the emotional lives of dogs.

**References: **

* * *

* [1][2] [Animal Cognition 2012, DOI: 10.1007/s10071-012-0510-1][3]

Sources:

* [Discovery News June 8, 2012][4]

**Related Articles:**

![][5] [Dogs Probably Feel Sorry for Us][6]

![][5] [Why You May Be Healthier if You Own a Pet…][7]

![][5] [Fascinating Insight into Your Dog's Many Ways to Communicate…][8]

[** Comments (7)][9]**

[1]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1
[2]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_ednref1
[3]: http://www.springerlink.com/content/u514vmqvg2627pk4/
[4]: http://news.discovery.com/animals/dogs-sadness-120608.html#mkcpgn=rssnws1
[5]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif
[6]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/26/pet-dogs-probably-feel-sorry-for-us.aspx
[7]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/04/07/why-owning-a-pet-is-good-for-your-health.aspx
[8]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/06/09/fascinating-insight-into-your-dogs-many-ways-to-communicate.aspx
[9]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/27/dogs-submissive-behavior.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/27/dogs-submissive-behavior.aspx

VIDEO: Dog, Blind Cat, Seven Gerbils Look For Forever Home

If you're looking for a [pet][1], drop into theA Connecticut Humane Society's [Waterford][2] branch A and have a look around.

[1]: http://www.topix.com/pets/guinea-pigs
[2]: http://www.topix.com/city/waterford-ct

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/video-dog-blind-cat-seven-gerbils-look-for-forever-home?fromrss=1

Does Your Dog Comfort You When You Cry?

**By Dr. Becker**

## Your Dog May Be Trying to Comfort You

## Is Your Dog Showing Empathy?

**References: **

* * *

* [1][2] [Animal Cognition 2012, DOI: 10.1007/s10071-012-0510-1][3]

Sources:

* [Discovery News June 8, 2012][4]

**Related Articles:**

![][5] [Dogs Probably Feel Sorry for Us][6]

![][5] [Why You May Be Healthier if You Own a Pet…][7]

![][5] [Fascinating Insight into Your Dog's Many Ways to Communicate…][8]

[** Comments (6)][9]**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/27/dogs-submissive-behavior.aspx

The Pets of Salem County: See hundreds of photos of our local pets online

Take a look, The Pets of Salem County are here. When we asked Today's Sunbeam's readers to send us photos of their favorite pets for the contest, they responded.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2012/07/the-pets-of-salem-county-see-hundreds-of-photos-of-our-local-pets-online?fromrss=1

FDA Releases Chicken Jerky Treat Test Results

**By Dr. Becker**

## "You can't find what you don't look for."

## Is the FDA Even Up to the Task?

## I'm Repeating Myself, but …

**References: **

* * *

* [1][5] [Jerky Pet Food Lab Samples Analyzed - 1/1/2007 - 7/2/2012][6]
* [2][7] [08-12-2009 Review of the Food and Drug Administration's Monitoring of Pet Food Recalls][8] ****
*

Sources:

* [NBCNews.com July 19, 2012][9]

**Related Articles:**

[** Comments (45)][14]**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/27/chicken-jerky-treats-test-results.aspx

URGENT: If You Feed Raw or Plan to in the Future, PLEASE READ THIS

**By Dr. Becker**

> Next week on August 2 or 3, 2012, the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) will vote to adopt a policy against raw feeding of cats and dogs.
>
> The resolution to be voted on, titled _POLICY ON RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL-SOURCE PROTEIN IN CAT AND DOG DIETS,_ takes the following position:
>
>> _"The AVMA discourages the feeding to cats and dogs of any animal-source protein that has not first been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens because of the risk of illness to cats and dogs as well as humans." _
>
> The full resolution can be found in this [document][1], page 12.
>
> On July 18th, the AVMA posted a [blog entry][2] titled _The Facts on AVMA's Proposed Policy on Raw Pet Food Diets._ The post is intended to clear up "misinformation" the AVMA feels is in the public domain concerning the policy.
>
> In my view, the July 18 post doesn't clear up a thing.
>
> In order to clear up "misinformation" about their raw feeding policy, the AVMA must be forthcoming about what's really behind it. Why a formal resolution against all forms of raw or "undercooked" pet food? And why now?
>
> The only type of pet food and treats under near-constant recall for potentially deadly contaminants is the processed stuff. Year in and year out, it is mass marketed processed pet food and treats that cause illness and death in dogs, cats and people.
>
> So why the sudden need for a formal policy banning a type of pet food that is not and has never been the cause of product recalls, illness or death?

## AVMA → Delta Society → Purina Petcare

> At the end of the formal AVMA policy linked above, there is a statement about the resolution which says in part:
>
>> _"At its spring 2011 meeting, the Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine (CPHRVM), drafted a new policy to address an issue brought to its attention by Animal Welfare Division staff and the Delta Society (a non-profit organization that works with companion animals for animal assisted therapy, service animals, and other volunteers). Having a policy specific to raw diets and associated public health concerns, the Delta Society inquired if AVMA had a related policy." _
>
> More than a few raw feeders and others interested in the issue of species-appropriate pet nutrition are questioning the Delta Society (now called Pet Partners) link.
>
> I published an [article][3] two years ago when Delta Society banned raw fed pets -- and any pet living in a home with raw fed pets -- from its highly regarded Pet Partners therapy program. It was an unanticipated move that stunned Delta's membership, affiliates and raw pet food enthusiasts across the U.S.
>
> In researching possible explanations for this ill-advised decision, I uncovered a few clues:
>
> * On the [home page][4] of the Delta Society (Pet Partners) website you will find the following sentiment: _"Thank you to our incredible partner, the passionate pet lovers at Purina."_ It's a safe bet the Purina logo is prominently featured on other Delta Society/Pet Partners marketing materials as well.
> * On the Delta Society's [Board of Directors][5], you'll find Purina's Marketing Director.
> * In the Delta Society [Medical Advisory Group][6], you'll find member Dr. Deborah S. Greco, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, of Nestle Purina Petcare in St. Louis, Missouri.
> * In 2008, [Purina gave the Delta Society $400,000][7] – the largest grant ever received by the organization.
> * On the Purina One website, you'll find their marketing position on ["Why You Shouldn't Feed Your Pet Raw Meat"][8].
>
> Clearly, Delta Society/Pet Partners is influenced by Nestle Purina. And according to the AVMA, Delta Society is one of two organizations that brought the "issue" of raw feeding to their attention, prompting the about-to-be-voted-on formal resolution against raw feeding.

## Pet Nutrition: The New "5th Vital Assessment" According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)

> Coincidentally, I also wrote an [article][9] earlier this year on the AAHA's move to add a fifth vital assessment for veterinarians in determining the health status of cat and dog patients. (The first four assessments are temperature, cardio function, respiratory health, and pain.)
>
> On the surface, this seems like an absolutely excellent initiative.
>
> However, while I certainly agree _species-appropriate_ nutrition is fundamentally important to the health of all animals, I am dismayed that a major manufacturer of "therapeutic" pet food (Hill's) provided an educational grant to print the _AAHA Nutritional Assessment Guidelines for Dogs and Cats_ in several languages.
>
> I think focus in the traditional veterinary community on companion animal nutrition is long overdue. But it is troubling to me that each nutrition-related initiative -- whether it's a new "vital assessment" or a policy on raw feeding – seems to come with strings attached to a major manufacturer of processed pet food.
>
> Sometimes the strings are visible, as in the case of the Delta Society's sponsor, Purina, and the Hill's grant to the AAHA. Other times the strings are less obvious, as in the case of the AVMA's illogical and oddly timed resolution against raw feeding.

## Possible Outcomes of the AVMA Policy Against Raw Feeding

> The AVMA resolution, if passed, will not "ban" the sale of commercial raw pet food diets. To quote the AVMA: _"... this proposed policy would be an AVMA policy if approved, not state or federal law. The AVMA cannot, and will not, regulate what pet owners choose to feed their pets. If you already feed raw food to your pet, that's your choice."_
>
> But here's the problem. The vast majority of traditionally trained veterinarians in the U.S. do not study nutrition. Most vets learn about companion animal nutrition from a handful of self-interested pet food manufacturers who are a constant presence at vet schools and clinics around the country. The AVMA's membership is veterinarians who for the most part are far behind the curve in understanding species-appropriate nutrition for pets.
>
> Most pet owners take their vet's recommendation when it comes to feeding their cat or dog. A formal resolution by veterinarians' own professional organization against raw feeding will seal the deal for many vets who will, with a clear conscience, continue recommending processed pet food diets to cat and dog owners.

## A Possible "Chilling Effect" on Commercial Raw Pet Food Companies

> Another concern among raw feeders and other proponents of raw food for pets is that pet food companies producing commercial raw diets will cave under the anti-raw pressure and begin to use heat or high pressure pasteurization (HPP) processes. In fact, some already have
>
> Here's how one raw feeder, [Dr. Amy Nesselrodt][10], a DVM and member of the AVMA expresses her concerns:
>
>> _"Those of us who feed raw want to feed raw. We do not believe heated food nor High Pressure Pasteurized (HPP) food is the same as raw. We believe (and the evidence e.g. the pet, has shown) that raw, truly raw with enzymes and probiotics, is beneficial to our pets. As a busy professional, I want the freedom to choose commercially available prepared raw food. Truly raw food._
>>
>> _"Those of us who support raw feeding (and have seen the health benefits of doing so) don't want more regulation of raw, limiting our choices and driving up prices. AVMA's passing of this resolution would likely cause a chain reaction of FDA creating more regulation. Regulation would drive up commercially prepared raw food prices and make it cost prohibitive."_
>
> Dr. Nesselrodt also makes the point that raw pet food manufacturers are regulated the same way kibble manufacturers are. Commercial raw pet food is tested and subject to recall just as processed pet food is, yet the recalls have all involved processed kibble and treats.
>
> Nesselrodt asks a valid question of the AVMA: _"Why discriminate against commercial raw?"_
>
> Another possible outcome of the AVMA policy against raw feeding is it could put some commercial raw pet food companies out of business. These companies are mostly small operators committed to providing high quality food for pets. Many will close up shop before compromising the principles of healthy nutrition for cats and dogs upon which their businesses were built.

## What You Can Do

> If you feel the AVMA's proposed policy against raw feeding has the potential to negatively affect the health of your pet or your freedom to choose how to feed your dog or cat, let your voice be heard before the August 2/3 vote.
>
> To contact the AVMA …
>
> * Headquarters:
>
> 1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360
Phone: 800.248.2862
Fax: 847.925.1329
>
> * Governmental Relations Division:
>
> 1910 Sunderland Place, NW
Washington, DC 20036-1642
Phone: 800.321.1473
Fax: 202.842.4360
>
> * Email: [avmainfo@avma.org][11] (include in the subject line: AVMA Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine)
> * The AVMA's [July 18th blog post][2] is also open for comments.

Sources:

* [The Facts on AVMA's Proposed Policy on Raw Pet Food Diets July 18, 2012][2]

* [TruthAboutPetFood.com July 18, 2012][12]

* [DrAmyRawDogFoodResearch.com][10]

**Related Articles:**

![][13] [Nation's Leading Dog Therapy Organization Shoots Self in Foot with Ban on Raw-Fed Pets][3]

![][13] [The Completely Healthy 'Pet' Food Your Vet Probably Vilifies...][14]

![][13] [Saying No to Poor Quality Pet Food... Even When It's Recommended by Your Vet][15]

[** Comments (59)][16]**

[1]: http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/jul12/120715_resolutions.pdf
[2]: http://atwork.avma.org/2012/07/18/the-facts-on-avmas-proposed-policy-on-raw-pet-food-diets/
[3]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/05/nations-leading-dog-therapy-organization-shoots-self-in-foot-with-ban-on-raw-fed-pets.aspx
[4]: http://www.deltasociety.org/Page.aspx?pid=183
[5]: http://www.deltasociety.org/Page.aspx?pid=252
[6]: http://www.deltasociety.org/Document.Doc?id=676
[7]: http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/Veterinary+news/Purina-giving-400000-to-Delta-Society/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/514828
[8]: http://www.purinaone.com/pets/all/diet-and-nutrition/why-you-shouldnt-feed-your-pet-raw-meat
[9]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/09/nutrition-the-fifth-vital-assessment.aspx
[10]: http://dramyrawdogfoodresearch.com/RawDogFoodResearch/Welcome_1.html
[11]: mailto:avmainfo@avma.org
[12]: http://www.truthaboutpetfood.com/articles/very-bad-news-for-raw-feeders.html
[13]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif
[14]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/02/15/raw-meat-the-best-and-healthiest-diet-for-pet-cats-and-dogs.aspx
[15]: http://www.everypeteverytime.com/index.html
[16]: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/25/no-to-raw-feeding.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/07/25/no-to-raw-feeding.aspx