Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Canine Hypothyroidism And Seizures in Dogs



Young Golden Retriever With Hypothyroidism
Notice the symmetrical hair loss and thin tail



Did You Know? Seizures in dogs are often associated with low or borderline low thyroid function.  Thyroid values can vary considerably and vets interpret results differently.  Just as in people, symptoms of hypothyroidism should weigh in heavily in the overall assessment of the pet.    Hypothyroidism is very common in middle aged dogs, but many dogs are undiagnosed.   Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs:  lethargy, weight gain,  symmetrical hair loss or thinning hair especially on the tail, chronic ear and skin infections, dull coat, slower heart rate, constipation, seizures and more.  If your dog is having seizures or any of these symptoms, ask your veterinarian about testing your dog’s thyroid and confirm that the values are mid-range not at the low end of "normal".   

Dogs with hypothyroidism can benefit from Amazing Omegas, a powerful omega 3 supplement, along with Power Probiotic, AllerEaze and K9 Digestive Enzymes.  Maintaining proper digestive health and controlling food allergies is important as any signs of stress can trigger seizures. Seizures can be triggered by allergies, stress and gastrointestinal issues  which is why it is so important to keep dogs with hypothyroidism on a regular schedule, feeding them 3 daily meals with plenty of exercise.  To learn more about how to help your dog with seizures, please read our comprehensive article about holistic care for dogs with seizures. 

Monday, February 27, 2017

What Are Soybean Hulls and Why Are They in Your Dog's Food?



Ingredient of the Week #1:  Soybean Hulls

Each week, we will be featuring a pet food ingredient to help pet owners be more aware of what is in their pet's food.  Sometimes the ingredient may be a healthy ingredient and sometimes it may not.  Our goal is not to pick on brands or pet food manufacturers but rather to encourage you to READ the LABEL!  If you can't pronounce an ingredient in your pet's food, then maybe it shouldn't be there.

What Are Soybean Hulls?

Seriously, do you really want this in your pet's food? Soybean hulls are an inexpensive filler used to add bulk to animal feeds.  It is seen in reduced calorie pet foods as a source of fiber so the pet feels satiated.  Why not add nutrient rich sources of fiber to your pet's food such as green beans or pumpkin? Soybean hulls are the skins of soybeans and a waste product remaining after processing soybeans into oil and meal.  Soybean hulls offer little nutritional value, if any, and can be problematic for a variety of reasons.

First, do you really want soybeans in your pet's food to begin with, let alone the WASTE PRODUCT of soybeans.  Most soybeans are genetically modified (contain GMOs) but pet food manufacturers like to add soybean oil, meal and hulls because they are an inexpensive form of oil, protein and bulk.  High levels of the chemical pesticide RoundUp are found in GMO soy--a potential carcinogen for your cat or dog.  The soybean itself contains toxins that can be hard to digest for some pets and cause gastic distress.  Soy also interferes with thyroid function AND is linked to seizures in cats and dogs.  The list goes on and on.  We do not recommend feeding your pets treats or pet foods containing soy and especially not soybean hulls.  Some common brands containing soybean hulls:  Hills prescription diets (some varieties), Hills Science Diet Light, Purina Dog Chow Light.

Join us now on Instagram! Be sure to follow @Ask.Ariel for cute pet pictures and pet health tips!
www.instagram.com / ask.ariel/
Thursday, February 23, 2017

Natural Remedy For Pet UTI Prevention Contains Cranberry And D-Mannose


Is your dog or cat getting repeated bladder infections? Pet UTI Prevention Formula   can help. Pet UTI Prevention Formula is a natural remedy for dogs and cats to stop pets from getting repeat urinary tract infections. Sold in veterinary hospitals since 2005, Pet UTI Prevention Formula contains ingredients such as cranberry and d-mannose scientifically proven to:

• Acidify the urine
• Prevent Adhesion of Bacteria to the Bladder Wall
• Promote a normal urinary pH

You can help your pet and stop the cycle of chronic UTIs using diet changes and the Pet UTI Prevention Formula along with Power Probiotic.  Chronic UTIs can be discouraging but when you look at the quality ingredients and see the many testimonials, there is hope!  If you need any help, please don't hesitate to email us at support@askariel.com


Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Pet Symptoms That Require An Emergency Vet Visit

Just when you are walking out the door or leaving for vacation, you notice something is "off" with your pet. But, when is it an emergency? If your pet has any of these symptoms, please call your vet right away.

· Any eye trauma
· Blood in urine or stool
· Vomiting or diarrhea--more than 1 instance
· Pet is lethargic, listless
· Insect or snake bites (a small bite can cause a severe reaction)
· Sudden limping
· Swollen stomach
· Punctures and abrasions (fur can hide a much deeper wound)


Need help with your pet? Please email us at support@askariel.com  
Please know we cannot provide veterinary advice but we will be happy to provide you with articles and information regarding your pet's health concern.



Monday, February 20, 2017

In Memory of a Dear Friend


Just devastated to learn of the passing this week of a very dear friend Stanlee Phelps. Stanlee was an inspiration to all who knew her. Stanlee had a profound impact on my life and I loved her so much. Small in stature, but large in life, Stanlee lived every day to the fullest. Through her valiant battle with both breast and ovarian cancer, Stanlee was forever the optimist, uncovering new ways every day to keep on going, keep on fighting the fight. Stanlee helped me personally and professionally. She was a great source of encouragement when I wanted to pursue my dream of working with animals. She will live forever in my heart and I will miss her terribly. Rest in peace my dear friend. It was a blessing to call such a beautiful person my friend.     


Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Don't Forget to Love the Abandoned Animals That Need Our Help

On Valentine's Day and every day, please remember the abandoned cats and dogs that need our help. They need our love and attention right now.  Many thanks to all of the wonderful rescuers who tirelessly go to the kill shelters to pull these animals out and all of the kind pet owners who adopt them. If you can't adopt, please consider fostering, volunteering or making a donation. #rescuedog #animalshelter #rescuecat #fosterdog #fostercat
Friday, February 10, 2017

Support Dogs Help Children With Autism

  Dr. Lynette Gebler

This article was contributed by Dr. Lynette Gebler from Focus Formulations.com
Our history with dogs is a long one, spanning from once being an indispensible part of a work team to now becoming part of our families.   Whatever role a dog may play in your family, more and more dogs are becoming trained as “support animals”.  Support animals provide therapeutic benefit to an individual with a mental or psychiatric disability and can also provide emotional support. 
Research has demonstrated that petting a cat or dog helps your body release a relaxation hormone and cuts down on levels of a stress hormone, which can lower your blood pressure.   This ability to help humans relax has made dogs a perfect companion for children and adults with autism.  This is especially true when they  find themselves in certain situations too overwhelming to handle. Children with autism may benefit from interacting with dogs, which can provide unconditional, nonjudgmental love and companionship.
Parents should consider their children’s sensitivities carefully when choosing a pet to ensure a good match. For example, a child who is easily agitated or is sensitive to noise may have difficulty with an extremely active dog or one that tends to bark. Bringing a dog into a home is a lifetime commitment and care should be taken that the dog is a good fit for your family. Ultimately, a well thought out decision to bring a support animal into your home is one that will bring years of joy and fulfillment to the family.
To learn more about autism, please visit FocusFormulations.com  We provide the latest on autism treatment and advances and we would love to have you share your story with us.