THE DEVELOPMENT OF DISEASE

I have been dealing with dogs now for some 15 years and worked using alternative methods of treatment for around 30 years.

Allergies in dogs are becoming more and more frequent, and quite often go unrecognised as allergies and are treated using normal drugs which can make the situation worse, so I thought I would go into this side of things in a little more detail in order to help you with some basic problems you may encounter.

If you take your dog for its regular vaccination and you notice any change in the behaviour, report this immediately to your vet and contact someone to perhaps get a second opinion. Your vet has the necessary forms that can be filled out and sent to the manufacturer of the vaccine just in case there is a ‘rogue’ batch going round.

If your dog chews is feet, has numerous ear or eye infections, or seems below par, the dog is allergic to something. If he appears uncomfortable after a visit to the groomers, this could simply mean he is allergic to some product used and I suggest to most people that tell me about this, that they send a Sulphur or Sulphur/Coat Tar shampoo with their dog next time and ask their groomer not to use anything else on their dog. Most medications given will certainly make the dog more comfortable, but this is just masking the problem. In order to cure the dog, we have to get down to the root cause of this behaviour and start afresh. If you proceed to add more vaccines or anti biotics to an animal that appears to have these and other conditions, you will be making the situation a lot worse. You are adding additional toxins into a body that is already struggling with a weakened immune system. This is not being kind to the dog, and it is costing you money that usually doesn’t need to be spent. Over the years I have found that allergies are very misunderstood and overlooked. Before embarking on a spending spree of treatment contact the CanineCareGroup and get a consultation and advice. One telephone call could save you a lot of money and help your dog out of discomfort which is basically all we want to achieve is it not?

There are so many different foods on the market today, the usual canned meat, the kibble, and a lot of animals are on Raw diets. Strangely enough, I have found that raw beef is often a problem in some animals and is actually causing illness. So again, what you think is helping isn’t always doing so, but it takes time to work this out, and the owners need to be very patient and totally determined to work with the practitioner to get their animal well again.

These days, as I am sure a lot of people now realise, Alternative medicine is making headlines. It is more common now to use Alternative treatments, indeed, a lot of Insurance companies now cover your dog for homeopathic treatment, chiropractic help, and many other things. This is something I would suggest everyone looks into when insuring an animal. If normal veterinary treatment doesn’t work, then perhaps Alternative treatment may and it is always very comforting to know that you have the option to choose what you feel is right to do and have financial cover to do this.

Having said that, there are many people who will help rescued animals in particular, for free or at a very low cost. Sometimes it is necessary for charges to cover the remedies sent out, the time spent working out what the animal needs, and perhaps even a private visit.

Having lost an animal myself to Vaccine damage, I would like to point out that vaccines could be given homeopathically. Vaccines can cause severe illness in your animal and I will list below, courtesy of the Canine Health Concern who is working to help vaccine-damaged animals, some of the major problems, and also some ways of handling vaccination using Homeopathy.

PET VACCINE MYTHS

Vaccines protect our dogs against disease, helping to ensure they live long, healthy, happy lives.

Wrong: Vaccines only sometimes protect our dogs against disease (if at all). Scientific studies into human vaccines have shown that just as many vaccinated people, and sometimes more vaccinated people, contract diseases as do unvaccinated people.

A study conducted by Canine Health Concern during 1997, involving 2,700 dogs, showed that 68.2% of dogs in the survey with parvovirus contracted it within three months of being vaccinated. Similarly, 55.6% of dogs with distemper contracted it within three months of vaccination; 63.6% contracted hepatitis within three months of vaccination; 50% contracted parainfluenza within three months of vaccination; and every single dog with leptospirosis contracted it within that three month timeframe.

So vaccines represent - at best - only a 50/50 chance of protection. But if you doubt the validity of the CHC survey, ask around. It won't take long to find people whose dogs contracted these diseases shortly after being vaccinated.

In a parvo vaccine trial conducted by Dr Ronald D Schultz, head of pathobiology at Wisconsin University, three out of six parvo vaccine brands totally failed to give protection; two gave only partial protection; and only one was shown to be effective.

Vaccines have eradicated epidemics.

Wrong: Vaccine manufacturers like to claim this. But research shows that vaccines are generally introduced after the disease has died out: diseases die out after 67% of a population has been exposed to it. The smallpox vaccine is often quoted as having eradicated smallpox. In fact, scientists stopped using it when they finally admitted that it was causing too many side-effects. Only then did the disease die out.

There are strong arguments to suggest that vaccines keep diseases in the ecosystem. For example, the only cause of polio in the USA today is the vaccine itself. (You can get polio if you change the nappy of a baby who has recently been vaccinated against polio.)

Vaccines also shed into the environment, so a vaccinated or unvaccinated dog or cat can contract a disease from the urine and faeces of a vaccinated dog or cat.

Vaccines are extremely safe.

Wrong: No-one can legitimately claim that vaccines are safe because no-one has conducted the necessary research to make that claim. There are no long-term studies to show the long-term effects of vaccines on humans, let alone dogs.

Only a tiny minority of genetically susceptible dogs will suffer adverse reactions to vaccines.

Wrong: Whilst some dogs will have genetic weaknesses that make vaccines more dangerous to them, there are many other factors which can put your dog at risk. Vaccine manufacturers warn, in their data sheets, that "immunocompetence may be compromised by a variety of factors . . ."

1. if the dog is genetically defective

2. if there is something wrong with the dog's diet

3. if the dog was unhealthy when vaccinated

4. if the dog is stressed at time of injection

5. if the dog's immune system is incompetent

6. if the dog is exposed to a virus before or after vaccination

7. if the dog is taking immune suppressant drugs such as steroids

8. if the vet stores and handles the vaccine inappropriately

9. if the dog is incubating disease at the time of vaccination

"Immunocompetence may be compromised" means that the immune system may not be functioning properly, in which case the animal will be unable to mount a defence against the vaccine challenge. The consequence of this could be that the animal contracts the disease from the vaccine, or the animal could die.

And if no-one is recording the adverse effects of vaccines effectively, then how can anyone say only a 'tiny minority' have adverse reactions?

In the UK, vets are asked (not compelled) to report adverse reactions if they suspect an adverse vaccine reaction. If a dog falls down having an epileptic fit within half an hour, ten days, or a month of vaccination, the vet very often fails to suspect a link - even though vaccines are known to cause epilepsy, and the human Vaccine Damage Compensation Unit has paid up to £30,000 to parents whose children were made epileptic by vaccines. Even if the vet does suspect a link, there is no law to make him report the suspected reaction. Many vets are too busy to complete the necessary paperwork.

The same applies to other diseases which many scientists contend are vaccine-related - such as skin disease, arthritis, cancer, encephalitis, etc.

"I am a vet, and I have only seen one vaccine reaction in 20 years' of practice."

Wrong: you only think you have seen one vaccine reaction in twenty years of practice!

Vets have been trained to look for an immediate reaction - where the dog is allergic to the vaccine (this allergy is the basis for the genetic link claim). In the event of an allergic reaction - anaphylactic shock - the vet is advised to inject adrenalin into the animal to save his life.

Research papers published by eminent scientists show that the following diseases can be caused by vaccines:

Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia - a dreadful disease that usually kills a dog within days. Progress of the disease closely resembles the last stages of AIDS.

Cancer - Dr Denis W Macey was reported in an American veterinary paper as saying that up to 22,000 cats develop cancer at the site of vaccination every year in the USA.

The Salk Polio Vaccine administered to thousands of people in the 1950s and '60s was contaminated with a Simian (monkey) retrovirus (called SV40) that has been found at human cancer sites. An Avian (bird) retrovirus has also been found at human cancer sites, suspected to have come from the MMR vaccine. Monkey kidneys, chick embryos, hamsters, ducks, dog brains and kidneys, and cat brains and kidneys are all commonly used as vaccine culture media. If the animal used as a culture medium for vaccines carries its own species-specific retrovirus and this is undetected and left in the vaccine, the vaccine can permanently alter the genes of the animal or human receiving the vaccine.

Genetic defects - The significance of vaccines' gene altering potential is alarming. For example, SV40 has been found at cancer sites belonging to the children of people who received the SV40-contaminated Salk Polio vaccine. SV40 is said to switch off the part of the DNA that protects from cancer, and this defect can be inherited.

Although the British government was informed that the polio vaccine was contaminated at the time, they took the decision to use it anyway. Once it was decided it was too risky to continue using the contaminated vaccine on the UK population, it was sold overseas to unsuspecting 'foreigners'. So God help your dog.

Thyroid can be caused by vaccines, and it then becomes an inheritable condition. Once a dog has underlying thyroid disease, he or she only needs a trigger - from a vaccine, an environmental pollutant, from stress, or from dietary inadequacies - to develop full-blown autoimmune diseases. Thyroid disease can often be undetected. For example, behavioural problems, hormonal imbalances, nymphomania, and coat loss can by symptoms of thyroid disease, but are often treated at face value without establishing the underlying cause.

Leukaemia - Dr Jean Dodds, one of the world's foremost experts in canine vaccine reactions, writes: "Recent vaccinations with single or combination modified live virus (MLV) vaccines are increasingly recognised contributors to immune-mediated blood diseases, bone marrow failure, and organ dysfunction." Dr Dodds lists leukaemia, thyroid disease, Addison's disease, diabetes, and lymphoma as diseases that can be triggered by vaccines.

Parvovirus - yes, parvovirus was created by vaccines. This disease didn't exist prior to the 1970s. In fact, scientists tell us it was created by vaccine manufacturers who cultured the distemper vaccine on cat kidneys that were infected with feline enteritis. This cat-enteritis-diseased distemper vaccine was then injected into dogs around the world, and parvovirus reared its ugly head around the world at the same time. A naturally occurring epidemic would spread slowly across continents. Parvovirus appeared in line with multi-national vaccine company distribution policies.

Similarly, human AIDS is thought by some scientists to be a vaccine-induced plague. HIV (humans), FIV (cats), and SIV (monkeys) are closely related viruses. Two separate scientific papers link the emergence of HIV in humans with the use of SIV-infected polio vaccines (cultured on monkey kidneys) on male homosexuals in New York, and innocent citizens of the Belgian Congo.

Arthritis - there are numerous scientific studies linking arthritis in with vaccination. Vaccine components have even been isolated in the bones of arthritic humans post vaccination.

According to one vaccine manufacturer’s data sheet, vaccines that are cultured on animal tissue can contain 'extraneous proteins' that can cause autoimmune diseases. Arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and it was found in the CHC survey to manifest in clusters nine months after vaccination.

Animals with a genetic predisposition to allergies (ie 'people' from families with a history of irritable bowel syndrome/Crohns disease/enteritis, asthma, hay fever, eczema, and so on), can become more allergic, or become highly sensitised, when you inject foreign proteins (serums and organ tissue) into them.

Veterinary manuals talk openly about serum reactions, and vaccines contain serum.

Allergies - There are many, many research papers showing a link between allergies and vaccines. In 1983, for example, Frick and Brooks published a paper to show that inhalant allergies (such as atopic dermatitis) have developed in dogs when vaccinated with distemper, hepatitis and leptospirosis vaccines just prior to, but not after, exposure to pollen extracts.

'Atopic' means an inherited predisposition to produce excess amounts of IgE antibodies in response to antigens (the things the animal is allergic to such as pollen, flea bites, dust mites, etc.). As a result the allergic individuals suffer chronically irritating skin inflammations. Other organs may exhibit signs of hypersensitivity causing, for example, conjunctivitis or rhinitis.

A study carried out at Purdue University showed routinely vaccinated dogs developing autoantibodies to a wide range of biochemicals, as well as DNA.

Homoeopathic vets treat a large proportion of skin problems as 'vaccinosis' (a morbid reaction to vaccines). Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and other digestive disorders have also been linked to vaccines.

Epilepsy - As stated earlier, it is scientifically recognised that vaccines can cause epilepsy in humans. Dr Hans Selye published a famous paper in 'Nature' in 1936 which explained how an organism will react to a massive challenge (such as a vaccine). Every system of the body springs into action, and a hormone called DOC can be released. This hormone can cause brain lesions and destruction of large parts of the brain. Epilepsy is a neurological (brain) condition.

The Merck Manual states that encephalitis can be caused by vaccines. It also describes epilepsy as a symptom of encephalitis.

Merck, a vaccine manufacturer, goes so far as to state in its manual that patients with B and T cell immunodeficiencies - features of which include eczema, dermatitis, food allergies, inhalant allergies, neurological deterioration and heart disease - should not receive live virus vaccines, as the vaccine can kill them.

Vaccine manufacturers have to undergo stringent procedures and tests to ensure safety.

Wrong: OK, partly true . . . vaccine manufacturers have to go through safety procedures and tests, but to claim that these tests are stringent is highly subjective. How, then, did SV40 get through; how did the avian virus get into the MMR vaccine; how did parvovirus slip through the net; and how did AIDS suddenly arrive from nowhere?

In actual fact, no-one is permitted (in the UK at least) to test the viral component of a veterinary vaccine except a vaccine manufacturer. They are the only ones with a license to do it. This means that if you suspect a vaccine killed your puppy, you have to take the vaccine company's word for it if they say it didn't. There's no-one to go to if you want an independent check.

It's better to risk a vaccine reaction than subject my dog to these deadly killer diseases.

Wrong: Firstly, very few of the classic canine diseases are deadly. Parvovirus is only generally deadly to puppies and, as maternal antibody can be present for as many as 22 weeks, and as maternal antibody cancels out the vaccine, vaccinated puppies are unlikely to be protected from parvovirus. Adult dogs rarely die from parvovirus.

Distemper kills only half of affected dogs. Indeed, dogs most susceptible to disease are those who are fed poor quality processed foods. A dog fed a natural diet, containing 'real' food, with a consequently strong immune system, is most able to combat viral challenges. Also, please be aware that there is an alternative to a highly risky vaccine - this is discussed later. My two two-year-old dogs have never been vaccinated, have received the homoeopathic alternative, and have tested positive for antibodies to both distemper and parvovirus. Both are extremely healthy.

Clinical signs of hepatitis and parainfluenza range from mild and invisible to death (the flu rarely kills; hepatitis can be caused by a range of factors, including poor diet, parasites, bacteria, fungus, chemicals and drugs, and the vaccine doesn't protect against all of the other dangers).

Secondly, no-one knows how common these diseases are. No-one records their existence. Leptospirosis, for example, is extremely rare (apart from which, leptospirosis is a range of over a hundred bacterins; the chances of the strain in the needle matching the strain in the field are remote; and the vaccine only confers protection for between three and six months, leaving vaccinated dogs 'unprotected' for up to nine months anyway).

Vaccines have also been known to cause the diseases they were designed to prevent. This happens when a vaccine is injected into an animal with a suppressed immune system (as explained earlier.); or when the vaccine manufacturer fails to render the viral component of the vaccine harmless in the lab. In the latter instance, the vaccine is withdrawn after it has killed 'more dogs than normally expected' (in the words of one vaccine manufacturer as it withdrew its vaccine).

Canine Health Concern's vaccine survey indicated that at least one in every hundred dogs is damaged by vaccines. As no-one has any reliable statistics to suggest otherwise, it should be up to vets and vaccine manufacturers to prove vaccines are safe and not the other way round. We whose dogs have died or suffered chronic debilitating diseases shouldn't have to take their word for it when the vaccine manufacturers deny responsibility. Our concerns should be taken seriously, and not strenuously denied in the face of overwhelming evidence.

The homoeopathic vaccine alternative is unproven.

Wrong: Existing research and experience shows that the homoeopathic nosode is as protective - but probably more protective - than vaccines.

Whereas the medical and veterinary 'professions' receive huge sums of money from international multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical conglomerates, please note that homoeopaths do not. Rather, vets who trust the less expensive homoeopathic alternative suffer serious financial loss by refusing to sell highly lucrative annual boosters.

A growing number of dog lovers are beginning to choose the homoeopathic alternative to vaccines. Some have been using the nosode for up to twenty years, and claim that they have never had a problem.

However, to be fair, you should understand that neither a vaccine nor the homoeopathic nosode offers guaranteed protection against canine disease. Louis Pasteur, the father of vaccines, conceded on his deathbed that the host's inherent resistance is everything. In other words, factors such as genetics and diet play a crucial role in disease prevention.

You should vaccinate your dog every year.

If you hear nothing else, if you can accept nothing else, please know that annual vaccination is not necessary. Please do not subject your dogs to the vaccine risk year after year until they drop. Once immunity to a virus exists, it persists for the lifetime of the host. In the case of leptospirosis (a bacterial disease), we have already explained that the vaccine is virtually useless and therefore not worth the risk.

Several American veterinary colleges have announced that annual vaccination is unnecessary, in reaction to consumer pressure and fears over adverse reactions. One veterinary college said that annual vaccination has no scientific basis, and we might as well have chosen 'every full moon' to stick the needle in. The AAVMA has circulated guidelines saying that puppy shots are enough, and then vaccination is no longer necessary.

And please be aware that a vaccine administered to a puppy, when his immune system is immature, is probably the most harmful jab of all, capable of wreaking havoc - havoc that you might not be able to detect immediately.

My doctor/vet knows best.

Wrong. Doctors and vets are trained in a very specific healing discipline. They know about pharmaceuticals, and some of them know about surgery. But they rely upon the pharmaceutical industry to tell them which drugs to use in which circumstances. They also rely upon the pharmaceutical industry to negotiate discounts which are important to their financial viability - and these discounts are often negotiated on the basis of whose vaccine is being used.

Homoeopaths do not claim to be able to reverse all vaccine damage, and conventional vets - not even recognising most forms of vaccine damage - have little success. Once you've administered the needle, you can never change your mind. Please STUDY THE FACTS, don't watch your dog die so you have to live to regret it.

 

The facts contained in this article are substantiated in the book, "What vets don't tell you about vaccines" from Canine Health Concern,

For less than the price of one vaccine jab, you can save yourself years' of expense and heartache, and your innocent animal friend the agony of vaccine damage.

Canine Vaccine Survey

It is well known that there are risks associated with vaccination of dogs, just as there are risks for humans. The trouble is, no one has adequately quantified the risks. Is it true that only a tiny minority of dogs suffer adverse reactions to vaccines, or is the problem more common? And what is a vaccine reaction? Is it something that happens immediately after the jab, or can you expect a reaction to manifest weeks or months later?

Christopher Day, Honorary Secretary of the British Homoeopathic Veterinary

Association, told us that, in his experience, where the start date of a dog's illness is known, a high percentage (around 80%) begin within three months of vaccination.

Canine Health Concern tested this observation and has analysed the histories of over 3,800 dogs post vaccination. This critical mass, by any standards, is a very high number from which to draw valid statistical conclusions. Most commercial scientific research involves significantly fewer dogs (tending to base their conclusions on data involving a couple of litters of puppies, if that). We have been able to show a definite statistical correlation between a vaccine event and the onset of a number of specific illnesses. Our published conclusions have satisfied mathematical or inferential statistical tests at a level of confidence of 99% or better.

Overall, we found that 66% per cent of all sick dogs start being sick within three months of vaccination, which is considerably more than double the expected rate of illness. Worse, 49% of all illnesses reported in the survey occurred within 30 days of vaccination. This is over five times the expected percentage if vaccination had no bearing on subsequent illness. More damning still, 29% of sick dogs first became sick within seven days of their vaccine jab. This means that a dog is 13 times more likely to become ill within seven days of vaccination than at any other time.

In the study, 69.2% of allergic dogs first became allergic within three months of being vaccinated - more than double the expected number. 55.8% of dogs with autoimmune disease developed the condition within three months of being vaccinated - again, more than twice the expected figure. Of dogs with colitis, 65.9% developed the complaint within three months of being vaccinated and, of dogs with dry eye/conjunctivitis, 70.2% developed their conditions within three months - both nearly three times higher than expected. 73.1% of dogs with epilepsy first became epileptic within three months of vaccination. As 2% of all dogs in the UK are epileptic, vaccines are clearly causing horrendous damage. For statisticians, our Chi score for epilepsy is 96: any Chi test statistic higher than twelve gives a 95% confidence about the conclusions. Without doubt, then, the majority of epileptic dogs in our survey are vaccine damaged.

But perhaps most astonishing is the fact that a majority of dogs (64.9%) with behavioural problems appear to have developed their difficulties within three months of vaccination. Similarly, 72.5% per cent of dogs with nervous or worrying dispositions became nervous within three months of their jabs (with a Chi score of 112), and 73.1% per cent of dogs with short attention spans lost their attentiveness within three months of vaccination.

All of our evidence ties in with research in the human field, and a growing body of veterinary research, which says that vaccines cause allergies, hypersensitivity reactions, autoimmune disease, encephalitis, epilepsy, personality changes and brain damage.

The CHC results are statistically very significant, and carry with them very high statistical certainty. This means that the evidence is strong that the above diseases can be triggered or caused by vaccination.

Other diseases that were highly represented within three months post vaccination included cancer (35.1%) , chorea (81%), encephalitis (78.6%), heart conditions (39.2%), kidney damage (53.7%), liver damage/failure (61.5%), paralysis of the rear end (69.2%), and pancreas problems (54.2%). Research conducted at Purdue University shows routinely vaccinated dogs developing autoantibodies to a vast range of normal canine biochemicals - which corroborates our findings.

Interestingly, our study showed that arthritis and Chronic Destructive Reticulo Myelopathy (CDRM - a degenerative disease affecting myelin in the spinal cord) occur in clusters nine months after vaccination, suggesting that the damage from vaccines resulting in these two diseases takes longer to develop or to show their symptoms.

Many contend that vaccines are a necessary evil; that we need them to protect our dogs against certain deadly canine diseases. However, our survey found that high percentages of dogs are developing the diseases we vaccinate against, soon after vaccination.

Of dogs with hepatitis, 64% contracted it within three months of being vaccinated and, of those with parainfluenza, 50% developed it within three months of their shots. Also,

69% of dogs with parvovirus, 56% of dogs with distemper, and every single dog with leptospirosis in the survey contracted the diseases within three months of vaccination.

Our figures support the view that vaccines don't confer guaranteed immunity and may actually cause the diseases they're designed to prevent.

Our figures appear to demonstrate that vaccines cause illness in one in every hundred dogs - and this is a conservative estimate. For human beings, the World Health Organization considers a reaction of one in 10,000 unacceptable. Surely the same statistics apply to dogs. Worse - and bordering on corporate dogslaughter - is the fact that we are urged to vaccinate companion animals every year. There is no scientific justification for this; it is a crime.

Please feel free to contact us at the address given above about any problem you are having with your dog. We do not charge for advice or telephone consults. Be prepared to have your entire life changed to help your dog. His health is in your hands, for the sake of an e.mail or a consult, you and your dog can learn how to trust each other, and we can teach you how to help your dog become a healthy and happy family member.

ALLERGY INFORMATION

To detox I prefer to do something a little more radical than this particular one, but on a day to day basis, this has been found to cause no ill effects at all, it just keeps the animal's system a little cleaner, a little more free of toxins. If the animal has a severe skin problem, then I would certainly suggest using something a lot stronger along with other homeopathic remedies to suit the condition being treated.

The basic of a de-tox diet is to give it over a 3 week period. The diet/fast day is for one day per week only. 

Crab Apple 6 drops twice daily for 3 weeks 

Echinacea 400mg tablet med.sized dog, 2 per day for 3 weeks- One fast day each week

Observe all the following in general care to avoid a build up of toxins or any problem with skin caused by any source. Also, if you fast and cleanse intestine on regular basis, they will not have excess mucus which tapeworm love.
www.phdproducts.com/cleanse.htm a good site for animal health/de-tox  www.b-naturals.com/news.htm - another excellent webpage full of info. on skin problems 

Fasting is one of the best ways of detoxifying the body and stimulating healing. When energy is not being used up on digestive processes, the body can concentrate on repair, renewal and fighting disease. Fasting is particularly effective in healing infections, fevers, skin problems and digestive disorders. Animals in the wild will naturally fast when they are ill and so will many domestic pets. Regular fasting of healthy animals will bring enormous health benefits and help to boost their immune systems and keep their bodies free of harmful toxins. Some animals do this naturally on a weekly basis and you may wish to try introducing regular short fast. 

Fasting Do's and Don'ts 

veterinary supervision. Healthy mature pets can fast for a full day on a 
regular basis but no more than one day a week. 
During a fast you can give your pet liquid nourishment such as: 
Homemade barley water with our without honey added to it. This is rich in 
magnesium and helps ease rheumatism and skin complaints, and is also 
purifies the blood. Simmer one tablespoon of pearl barley in fresh water for 
20 mins. Cool, and strain. 
Homemade rice water. Simmer one tablespoon of brown rice in water for 40 
mins. Strain and cool. You can add a few fenugreek seeds for added flavour. 
Vegetable or chicken broth (the strained liquid only). Use a mixture of root 
vegetables, onion, garlic, potato peelings, and/or chicken bones simmered in 
water. 
Water and apple cider vinegar (plus honey if desired) 
Fish head broth (strained liquid only) 
Aloe Vera juice diluted with water - a wonderful detoxifier 
Dogs and cats can also be given bones on a fast day 
Leave out any additional vitamins and minerals while fasting 
Make sure your pet gets plenty of fresh air and light exercise 
Give them lots of affection during a fast so they don't feel you have just 
forgotten to feed them!! 
It's a good time to give them a bath with a natural herbal shampoo, 
especially if they have skin or coat problems. 
End the fast slowly with a small meal of wholesome ingredients. 
*So, what do you do with your itchy dog? After all, intense itching is serious, as a bout with poison oak taught me. Many itchy dogs are in horrible pain and discomfort, and the quality of their lives without suppressive treatments has been poor. What to do?

I believe that the first step is to improve the diet. Bad diet is considered an "obstacle to cure" in homeopathic theory, and most skin conditions resolve on their own, "from within outward," when the diet is addressed appropriately.

For those few that do not, treatment by homeopathy can effect a real, lasting cure, not suppression of the symptom. In its action on the vital force, it makes no difference if you suppress a symptom with cortisone or tea tree oil. Either way, you are driving the disease deeper and cutting the wire to that "check engine" light.

I.Allergies-Origins, Causes and Remedies
II. Essential Fatty Acids-An Answer for Inflammation, Tumors, Low Energy and Depression? 

I. Allergies-Origins, Causes and Remedies


Dog and cat allergies are probably one of the biggest reasons for today's pet owner to visit their veterinarian. Allergies can manifest themselves in a variety of symptoms in a dog or cat. Most often in dogs, these symptoms are loss of hair coat, skin eruptions or rashes, foot licking, ear infections, itching and scratching. loss of hair around the eyes, flaky skin, oily skin and hot spots. These symptoms are usually seen in cats by tearing of the eyes, urinary tract infections and sneezing. While most veterinarians will prescribe drugs to stop the symptoms, they can flair up again once the medication is stopped. 

Allergies are caused by the bodies over reaction to a substance. It is often a frustrating and difficult task to pinpoint the cause of the original response. It is speculated in research that one third of all allergic reactions are triggered by food. Other offenders include chemicals in our environment (including lawn pesticides and herbicides), cleaning solutions, shampoo's (such as those containing lanolin or flea killing agents), detergents, fabric softeners, preservatives in dog foods and vaccinations. 

Lawn chemicals can be absorbed through the dogs feet, and affect them systematically. There are several journal articles relating weed killers to lymphosarcoma in dogs as well. Remember, your pet breaths the air where these chemicals have been sprayed, and they walk and lay on the lawn. If lawn chemicals must be used, it is important to keep your pet off the area for at least a day, preferably three days. 

Cleaning solutions, especially in the dogs living area or kennel, can be big offenders in activating allergies. Many are scented, which can add to the allergic reaction. It is recommended that plain bleach be used, mixed at a proper ratio with water for cleaning runs, kennels and crates. 

Many pet shampoo's contain irritating and immune lowering ingredients, including lanolin and flea repellents. These agents can be also be absorbed through the skin, and create more of a problem by coating the skin. The best shampoo's to use are gentle, herbal based or an oatmeal based shampoo. A good home remedy for a dog with constant itchy skin is to put some sliced lemons in a glass gallon jar. Let sit for a day or so, and use the solution as a rinse for your dog. This can often soothe the skin and stop the itch. 

Preservatives in dog foods include BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin. These are generally used in animal fats used in dog foods, and put in the fat before it reaches the dog food plant. They have also been proven to be cancer causing as well. Always read the bags ingredients closely for these particular preservatives, and select foods that use vitamin C and vitamin E for preserving the food. Try to choose dry dog foods that use plant oils (avoid canola and cottonseed though) rather than animal fats. Add your own source of animal fat, such as whole milk yogurt, raw chicken, beef with fat and raw meaty bones. 

Veterinarian researchers and holistic veterinarians are becoming more aware of the affects of vaccinations on our pets. Often, dogs react to the suspension used in the vaccine. This can show up as itchy skin, hair loss and reaction to food substances. Some dogs react stronger to vaccines, through hives on the skin, difficulty in breathing, redness of the skin and even in brain swelling and inability to breath. Always monitor your pet for at least two hours after a vaccination. Cancerous growths have also been found at the sight of the vaccination, years after the shot was given. It is recommended to vary the site of the vaccination, and do not vaccinate next to the spine, such as between the front shoulders. 

The last area of allergic reactions are to food. Alfred Plechner DVM, in his book, "Pet Allergies: Remedies for an Epidemic", report the top food allergens for dogs are: 

Beef and Beef By Products
Milk
Yeast and yeast products
Corn
Pork
Turkey
Eggs
Fish
Wheat 

For cats, Dr Plechner lists: 

Beef and Beef By Products
Tuna
Milk
Yeast and yeast products
Pork
Turkey 

It has been recently discovered that any form of soy, as well as corn gluten meal contribute to allergies. Wendy Volhard, in her book "The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog", suggest the grains that create the most problems seem to be corn, wheat, rice and rye. She reports the least allergic reactions come from oatmeal, buckwheat, millet and quinea. 

In Dr Richard H. Pitcairn's book, "Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs< and Cats", he recommends a diet he formulated, and suggests trying it for at least two months, to determine if the cause of your pets allergies are food related. He states that if no improvement is seen, then the cause of the problem may not be an allergy. His diet for dogs is as follows: 

Dog Allergy Diet 
1/2 cup lamb, mutton or chicken
6 ounces tofu 
1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice, buckwheat, millet or oats
1/4 cup grated or chopped vegetables
daily supplements as recommended (use a B vitamin rather than yeast)
Combine the ingredients and serve
yield: about 3 cups 

Cat Allergy Diet 
1/3 cup lamb, mutton or chicken
4 ounces of tofu
1/4 cup cooked brown rice, buckwheat, millet or oats
2 tablespoons grated or chopped vegetables
daily supplements as recommended (substitute B vitamin for yeast)
Combine the ingredients and serve
yield: about 1 1/3 cups 

Supplements and Nutrients 
From the literature on allergies, there seems to be a consensus that certain supplements can help boost the immune system. Some holistic veterinarians and naturopaths believe that the body over reacts and reads common substances incorrectly. If the body can be graduated built up to develop a healthier and stronger immune system, and the dog's environment can become as toxin free as possible, allergies can be combated. Here are a few of the most effective choices: 

Vitamin C with bioflavanoids 
Vitamin C in therapeutic doses can act as an antihistamine. It is also felt that the bioflavanoids help in boosting the immune system work well with vitamin C. 

Vitamin E 
This vitamin is also an antioxidant, and can have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also good to use topically for minor skin irritations. 

Biotin 
This B vitamin helps fight allergies, and can be found in eggs or by a pill supplement. 

Quercitin-C 
This is another bioflavanoid that helps boost the immune system. 

Alfalfa 
Is high in chlorophyll, and help to alkalize the body and detoxify the system. It is also a good source of some enzymes. 

Seaweeds 
The seaweed family, which includes blue green algae, spirulina, and kelp are great for their content of selenium (an immune booster), B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc and biotin. They are great for hair growth and condition of the skin. Sea Supreme Original is one of the best blends I have found for a seaweed mix. 

Yucca 
Yucca has cortisone properties without all the nasty side effects. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, which removes the itch and swelling. Yucca Intensive, a yucca tincture, works fast in the dogs system, and is used at one drop per 10 pounds of the dogs body weight. 

Enzymes 
The use of enzymes in the food is important.It helps break down and digest the food faster, and pancreatic enzymes help in breaking down the proteins in the diet, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions. Digest Zyme is a good blend of enzymes, including the pancreatic enzyme, and is easy to add to the diet. 

Herbal Blends 
Tasha's Skin and Hair Support Formula is a blend of herbs that is useful during seasonal changes, or right when an outbreak occurs. It also contains flower essences to give relief as well. 

Tasha's Immune System Support contains echinacea, red root and several other herbs that can help boost the immune system, and get a dog back into condition. I have also used it topically on skin irritations. 

Flax Seed Oil 
Essential oils are necessary for good health of your pets skin and coat, and for immune boosting. Flax seed oil is best purchased at a good health food store, and can be found in the refrigerated section. Always keep it refrigerated at home as well. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. 

It is good to take good external care of your pet as well. Good shampoo's include Pet Botanics Herbal Shampoo, which contains pennyroyal, rosemary, eucalyptus, lavender and horsetail, and Pet Botanic Oatmeal Shampoo, which is great for hypersensitive skin. 

Tea tree oil is excellent to use as a rinse after bathing. Mix one half teaspoon to a pint of water, rinse with it, and leave on. It is made from the melaluca tree, and besides being a natural skin softener, it has antibacterial and anti-yeast properties. 

The best defence for allergic symptoms and reactions is feeding your dog or cat as many fresh foods as possible. A fresh diet is rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids. The food you feed your pet is what will help build the immune system and provide your pet's body with the proper defense against allergies and other immune related problems. Good books to use for recipes include Dr. Pitcairn's "The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats", and Wendy Volhard's "The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog". 

II. Essential Fatty Acids-An Answer for Inflammation, Tumors, Low Energy and Depression? 

Essential fatty acids are generally found in fish oils and many vegetables and vegetable oils. The body can not make EFA's, and they must be provided through our diet. The Omega 3 fatty acids are proving to be the most beneficial. Since most of our pet foods are made with animal fat, most are woefully lacking in the EFA's. EFA's good properties break down with heat processing and can grow rancid if not properly refrigerated. All rancid fats become free radical carriers, and are suspected of producing cancer in us and our dogs. 

Purdue University recently conducted tests showing that a lack of EFA's in the body can often be the cause behind depression. Further studies by the National Institution of Health (specializes in studies of EFA's) shows that children with low levels of EFA's are more likely to have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. EFA is also necessary for proper brain growth in infants and children and essential to the proper functioning of the central nervous system. EFA's are also needed for good energy levels, ability to concentrate well, function in mineral absorption and weight gain. 

There are several good sources for EPA's. 

The first is from fish oils, although not all fish provide enough EPA's. Good sources of fish include: salmon, mackerel, sardines, lake trout and herring. Most dogs enjoy having mackerel or salmon added to their food two or three times a week. Four ounces of salmon can provide 3,600 milligrams of Omega 3 fatty acids. Salmon oil is also an excellent choice for a supplement for fatty acids. 

The second source is flax seed oil, fortified flax seed, primrose oil, black current oil, and spirulina. Flax seed oil also contains potassium, magnesium, B vitamins and zinc. Flax seed is rich in another EFA, called DHA (docosahexanoil). This EFA has shown to help improve vision, reduce tumors, help alleviate depression and asthma, and has shown some effectiveness in Crohn's disease (chronic inflammation of the intestine). Flaxseed also has been noted to be effective in reducing inflammation in some arthritis, if used consistently for at least three months. A good dose for dogs is one teaspoon for a small dog, half a tablespoon for a medium dog, and a tablespoon for the larger breeds. Another good source for DHA is blue green algaes. 

I have found my dogs do well with daily use of flaxseed oil, Sea Supreme Original (contains spirulina and blue green algaes) and mackerel or salmon at least three times a week. Not only does the EFA's give a healthy coat and skin, but assists with inflammation due to arthritis, gastrointestinal inflammations, shrinking some tumor growths, boosts energy, helps with vision and can lift some depressions. 

Avoid oils that have been heat processed, solidified, or allowed to go beyond the self life. Most good flax seed oils are found in the refrigerated section of a good health food store. Avoid oils such as soybean, corn, safflower, sunflower, coconut and palm oil. 
Lew Olson LMSW-ACP PhD Natural Health 
lewolson@earthlink.net
www.b-naturals.com/
Not to be reprinted without authors consent

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*BY MARINA ZACHARIAS
Skin problems are unfortunately very common in all breeds. The skin being truly the largest organ in the body, is in fact the easiest way for the body to eliminate toxins. We have been conditioned by the medical establishment that when we see any skin abnormality, it is to be viewed as troublesome and unsightly and must be gotten rid of it as fast as possible ( i.e. the usual route of antibiotics and possible steroids). When nothing but conventional treatment is used it leads to a suppression of symptoms. But what happened to the toxins the body was trying to eliminate? The problem may appear gone, and may stay that way for a short term. When the body feels up to " housecleaning" again, the symptoms may return. Again, if suppression methods are used for treatment, you are effectively pushing back the problem deeper into the body. Soon the body will give up trying to eliminate through the skin and will choose to go through the organs instead, leading to a much more serious illness.. 
Holistic methods will help the body to deal with the underlying problem so that a true healing response is obtained. There are a great variety of methods used and all are aimed at helping the body help itself. There are cases when a problem warrants antibiotic treatment. Sometimes you have to put the fire out before the clean up crew can go in and do the job. When this is combined with giving the body support holistically, good results can be achieved. 
I will try to touch briefly here on a few of the more common skin problems and some good remedies to treat them. In cases of serious illness veterinarian advise should always be sought. 
Demodectic Mange has become quite a problem which usually afflicts the younger dog. 
( However, chronic cases are becoming more frequent in the older animal.) The usual course of treatment after diagnosis is to use harsh chemical dips until all signs of the mites are gone. In severe unresponsive cases, Ivermectin is being tried on a daily basis. A problem with active mange is a compromised immune system which must be addressed. Dips only further hurt the immune system and in cases of very sick animals have actually caused death. We have been very successful in treating mange holistically. 
Topically Lavender oil is used alternately with lemon juice directly on the spots. Internally the immune system must be helped. A glandular nutritional supplement called Immuplex combined with BHI homeopathic remedies called Skin and Inflammation are used. NR Herbal Compounds are also excellent to help boost the immune system and should be used regularly for maintenance and prevention. This is a Juliette de Bairacli Levy formula that combines garlic, sage, thyme, eucalyptus, wormwood, rue and vegetable charcoal that has given excellent results over decades of usage. This is wonderful when given routinely to all dogs (and cats) as a preventative and for their overall good health. Vitamins are also important in the mange case. Supplementation of vitamins, E; C; B and zinc should be given. Diet is of course important and as much fresh food should be given as possible. If the mange surfaced after a period of vaccination, then detoxifying with the homeopathic remedies Thuja and Sulphur are good to help clear the body of the residual effects.
Dermatitis and staphylococcus infections are common problems. They can occur by themselves or as secondary infections. The same homeopathics and supplements as mentioned previously can be used, in conjunction with BHI Lymphatic. This will help rally the lymph glands into helping boost the immune system to fight infection. Chinese herbal complexes are excellent to use. Isatis 6 is a combination that will not only fight bacterial infections but also viral and fungal as well. Astragalus 10+ combination helps the immune system especially in chronic situations. This complex has also given good results in severely depressed immune systems. If the staph. infection is persistent then a homeopathic nosode can be given to help the body build its own immunity to the bacteria. This has been quite effective. A homeopathic remedy called Cutis comp. ( Heel) has a deeper action on the skin and also can give good results. 
A great substitute for antibiotics is Colloidal Silver. This forgotten remedy ( due to the high power pharmaceutical companies) has proven itself throughout history. There are almost no disease causing organisms that can live in the presence of even minute traces of chemical elemental silver. It has the ability to destroy not only bacteria, but viruses and fungi as well. However one has to be extremely careful as to the quality of the product. Many companies are promoting it as the panacea to all problems. Colloidal Silver should not be used prophylactically on a long term basis. Be very wary of companies marketing hype that tell you otherwise. 
Unfortunately in the process of healing skin conditions it is common to suffer hair loss. Reducing the amount of hair loss and aiding in speeding up the regrowth process can certainly be helped with holistic remedies. Homeopathically, BHI Hair & Skin combined with BHI Enzyme greatly help the body in triggering the proper enzymatic function for hair growth. Fresh chopped Dandelion leaves can be added to the food and the affected areas can be bathed in an infusion of Rosemary or Marigold. Providing the proper trace elements and minerals is also very important. I have relied on NR Seaweed Mineral food for the last ten years. This is a blend of deep ocean Seaweed from Europe (made from the whole plant and not just the surface growth) combined with other key herbs such as Nettles, Cleavers and Uva Ursi. When used daily it promotes strong thick coat; good pigmentation; supports bones, reproductive organs and Thyroid function. Many breeders tell me the dramatic difference they see when using this product over the current kelp products that they had been using ( many of which come from polluted N. America shores or are so highly heat processed they have lost the essential nutrients). 
Fatty Acid supplements are also important to the overall health and in particular help the skin and coat when used daily. The supplement should be high in Omega 3 fatty acids and should be in the form of cold pressed oil. If high heat is used in the processing ( i.e. capsules, or powder forms) it will kill all the benefits of the product. The only brands of oil that I trust to be correctly labeled are: Flora; Omega Nutrition; or Seymour Organics. I prefer Flax seed oil. Please do not think that by reading this ingredient on your dog food or supplement label, that this is enough. The body needs a truly cold processed product in order to utilize it.
A very common problem in any breed is ear infections. The usual fare of antibiotic or steroidal ointments are commonly used. This may clear the problem temporarily, but quite often the ears become chronically infected. Yeast infections usually being the predominant trouble. To help this I have had good success using the Herbal Earwash to cleanse the ear as needed. Externally Traumeel liquid (Heel) is put in the ear twice daily to help decrease the itching or inflammation. Internally a Chinese herbal complex called Picrorrhiza 11 is given. This herbal combination helps the body fight yeast infections while at the same time it helps boost the immune system. As the ears improve the Traumeel would be discontinued and normal cleansing with the Herbal Earwash would be maintained. The Picrorrhiza 11 can be used long term if needed ( i.e. in a genetic problem). 
Many ear problems can also be related to allergies, either inhalant or food related. A wide variety of dermatological conditions may originate with allergies. Allergies are at epidemic proportions today both in animals and humans. The causes are many and the entire subject is certainly beyond the scope of this article. Each animal needs to be treated on an individual basis, to help determine the underlying cause of the sensitivity in the first place. However I can touch on a few suggestions to help get things on the right track.
Allergy symptoms can be troublesome and often show up as itchy skin. Homeopathically BHI Allergy and Skin remedies can bring on relief ( instead of using anti-histamines). If the itching is severe then Chinese herbal complexes called Zaocys and Xanthium 12 are extremely helpful in reducing irritation. A bath in Murphy's oil soap ( made from pure vegetable oils) or an epsom salt soak can be soothing during the healing. If the skin is "hot" to the touch or red and irritated then a supplement called Beta Thym would be used. This supplement contains Thymus, L-ornithine and Beta Sitosterol ( a plant derivative of cortisol) which greatly helps to reduce the inflammation in the body naturally, while also helping to boost the immune system. 
Often, in chronic allergies or when there has been a history of drug use, the body's adrenal function is stressed and thus compromised. By giving a glandular nutritional supplement called Adrenal Complex this helps the body pick up the nutrients it needs to heal. Any allergy is a sign of a weakened immune system which needs to be supported. This can be helped with the supplements mentioned for mange. Additionally Pycnogenol is excellent in helping to reduce histamine production while increasing the bioavailability of vitamin C. Pycnogenol is made from Pine Bark and has been a long favored anti-oxidant in Europe. Again one must be very careful as to the source of supply as most companies have only 30 % bioavailability to the body. A good supplement should have 90% + bioavailability. ( This is wonderful for us humans too!) I use Pycnogenol from Da Vinci Labs.
If you know what your dog is allergic to ( which can be tested for), a desensitization program can be utilized. In place of using serum injections of the antigens, homeopathy can be used with excellent results. The antigens are made into homeopathic remedies called allersodes and are given to the patient orally. These help to create the correct immune response to achieve desensitization without any risks of side effects or overdosing which can occur with the injections ( less costly too!) This has proven very successful in flea allergies. For flea desensitization we use a product called Biting Insect Mix. 
Hot spots can occur from a variety of problems and can be treated in several different ways. I prefer using a homeopathic ointment called Traumeel externally on the spots. Often, when caught early this is enough to dry up the spot. Or this can be used in alternation with colloidal silver. Orally BHI Skin ,Inflammation, and Traumeel work well to promote healing and stop the progression of any further outbreaks. These same formulas work well for interdigital cysts too. If these problems are reoccurring then again the immune system needs help. Generally, NR Herbal Compounds and / or Immuplex provide the needed support.
In cases of eczema or dandruff type conditions where the animal has been given the proper Omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin E but the trouble still persists, this can be indicative of liver congestion. The liver is the toxic eliminator for the body. Through aging; overuse of drugs; poor nutrition, etc. the liver becomes less efficient at waste removal. Nutrients that are needed by the blood supply to nourish the skin become "backed up" and can not be utilized. To help this a Chinese herbal combination called Tang Kuei 18 is given. This aids in nourishing the blood supply and alleviating congestion, while giving aid to the liver function. The skin then has a chance to heal. 
In any skin condition it is common to find that the liver function is stressed. Most dogs today need liver support just simply due to environment; processed food; heartworm preventatives, etc. To give good ongoing support to the liver a glandular called Livaplex can be given routinely. This is extremely important and can give an amazing relief of symptoms when combined with Immuplex. Seniors, in particular, can benefit from this supplement. Milkthistle and Dandelion also aid in supporting the liver.
A bloodwork analysis called a Metabolic Nutritional Analysis is extremely useful for all animals. This allows us to determine where the animal may be out of balance regarding endocrine function and then what specific nutritional support is needed to help the body regain a functional balance to heal itself. This can be done preventatively before physical symptoms are apparent and of course it is most important during illness. This has truly saved the lives of many "hopeless" and "untreatable" cases, that were given up on by conventional treatments. Used alone or in conjunction with conventional therapies results are outstanding.
As more and more prestigious Universities are adding courses in natural medicine to their curriculum, it would appear that access to a greater variety of health care is a growing demand. There is a great deal of new science behind holistic treatments that is being brought to the forefront daily. Modern technology is providing the tools to help us understand that there are effective methods of dealing with health problems other than poisoning, cutting or burning.
We can all benefit as long as we continue to be open to learning. 

www.naturalrearing.com/

*Indicates permission was granted by author to re-produce this document. 
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Pet Allergy 

First cut out all possible allergens from diet and environment. A one day fast is helpful in clearing out the system of toxins and then reintroduce foods staring with foods that are not usually a problem like brown rice and lamb. A few very small Raw carrots can also be added to their meal along with fats and oils. Stick to this for at least a week with no other type of food and see if your pet's symptoms improve. After a week you can begin to 
reintroduce new foods one day at a time and watch to see if they cause and adverse reactions. If not, you can be fairly sure that your pet can tolerate that new food and it can become part of the whole diet. Any food that does cause an adverse reaction should be left out. When allergies are suspected, it is best to use bottled or filtered water. 
The most likely allergic trigger is brewers yeast or a yeast based B vitamin or vitamin complex. Many of the cat and dog multi minerals and vitamins are also free of the other possible allergenic substances such as dairy products, sugar, soya, gluten, corn, wheat, egg, artificial colourings and flavourings so look out for these. Use better quality supplements. 
Adding digestive enzymes to meals helps in cases of allergy. 
BACH REMEDIES 
For cleansing use Crab Apple. 8 drops daily on food, in water, or directly 
into dogs mouth. 
OR do a mix using the following individual remedies. 
Crab Apple, Beech, Vervain, Elm, Gorse 
Just get a small amber dropper bottle. Fill it almost to the top with mineral water then add 2 drops of each of the above remedies. Then just give as directed for Crab Apple. Keep bottle in the cool and away from sun. Keep the dosing up for at least 3 weeks then you should see a difference. With a pup, only give one Echinacea tablet per day!!! 

OTHER REMEDIES 

Give 4 Echinacea tablets (400-500mg) daily for one month then stop a month. 
Go back on the herb but only give 2 tablets daily for one month. Then off a month. Then back on etc. It builds up the immune system. 
Use Calendula lotion for bathing spots. 
Use Organic Apple Cider Vinegar for bathing spots as long as they are not open or weeping or this stings! 
Nelsons make an excellent cream called HYPERCAL which is a combination of Hypericum which guards against bacteria for want of a better description, and Calendula which is soothing. 
These are all non toxic .
A herbal shampoo such as seaweed or birch will help to relieve scratching. 
You could also bathe the dog in water with a few drops of Tea Tree Oil added. The most important steps are to change to a natural diet allergy free diet, and use filtered or bottled water. 
Sulphur 6c is a homeopathic remedy for general care of skin which is prone to spots, itching etc. and is freely available at any good chemist or health food shop. Just use as stated on the container. 
Raw Garlic cloves, 2 a day should be regularly fed to the dog to help cleanse the internal system and it does act as a form of anti biotic. It also keeps worms at bay. 
Aloe Vera Gel is also good for spraying or rubbing onto the area affected by spots and it has a soothing and healing effect. 
Valerian tablets have a very soothing affect on the animal and works on the nervous system. It can alleviate the desire to scratch. 
You can also make a herbal tea drink for the dog out of any herb tea you feel could help, like Nettle, Camomile etc., look for things that calm, soothe, help skin irritation etc. There are plenty to choose from. Make the tea, let it cool, and give it to the dog instead of water 2 or 3 times a week just to keep everything clear. 
For a nice healing and soothing rub, make up a liquid of Tea Tree Oil which is antiseptic, and Lavender Oil, which is soothing. Make sure these are PURE essential oils. Take one teaspoon of Almond, Olive or Sunflower oil, and add 2 drops of each oil, and rub into skin. 
You can also try Biocohemic Tissue Salts (sold usually as New Era) - Use 
Combination D for minor skin complaints; Kali Phos. For greasy skin, scaly skin; Kali Sulph. For dry skin, and silicea for skin that is slow to heal. 
Vitamins - give 500mg - 5,000mg Vit.C daily but build this up very slowly over a period of a month so that the stomach and digestive system can get used to the increase, and also make sure to give a good Vit. B complex which is yeast free. 
Check on the dog food you are feeding. Too high protein, say of 17% is not good. For a normal, healthy dog with a reasonable amount of activity, 10% should be enough, bearing in mind that you will feed titbits of one form or another to the dog which will increase the protein intake anyway. 
Feed good quality food. Raw meat should be organic, preferably. This is hard to find and also expensive, so if you do feed raw, just make sure it is good. A Raw Diet Plan can be given to you if you want to take this route. Allergies exist for a number of reasons, the animal gets rid of the toxins in varying ways, but usually through the skin so it is important to watch the diet, let the dog get plenty of exercise, don't overfeed on titbits, (feed fruit if you have to), make your own Liver Treats. Be careful on grass 
if your dog has an allergy, this could also be a cause. Keep the dog out of long grass and away from grass cuttings. 
For cleaning in the house, use white vinegar and water, or a spray made up of Bicarbonate of Soda and water, either of these are pure and will not harm the dog. 
Use bland soaps, don't use towels on the dog that have been washed in biological powder, and don't wash the dog's bed, blankets etc. in that manner either. 
Long illness or injury, surgery etc. can certainly produce reactions. Remedies can be taken to assist in recovery or lessening of severe reactions. 

Once you have got the dog sorted out, if you just keep to a routine for maintaining good health, with luck, your dog will lead a happy and very healthy life. 

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Allergic Skin Disease

Allergies are the bane of many animal and human lives, and the signs, although variable depending on species, cause misery in a variety of ways. 
Atopy is a common allergy to pollens, grasses, house molds and a host of other allergens, and can affect both dogs and cats. These allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or sometimes absorbed through the skin; the resultant 
hypersensitivity causes a variety of clinical signs that are attributable to itchiness (pruritis). These signs may appear in the spring or fall, or even year round, and, like human allergies, cannot be cured-only controlled. 

Atopy is usually inherited, and pets begin to show signs between six months and eight years of age. The most commonly affected breeds are terriers, Golden and Labrador retrievers, Schnauzers, Poodles, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and bulldogs. You may see your dog exhibiting foot licking, face rubbing, leg chewing, armpit scratching, head shaking, tail biting, discharges from 
the eyes or nose, and even post nasal drip (which is sometimes described as wheezing, snorting , reverse sneezing or trouble breathing). Related problems may include skin and ear infections and anal gland problems. Cats usually have small crusty lesions over part or all of the body, usually round the neck or over the back (Scott, et al, 1995). 

Your pet's treatment may vary according to the severity of the problem. The easiest, least expensive control measure is to switch your pet's diet to a good quality natural food. Grocery store and even some premium brands may be composed of poor quality ingredients and contain preservatives, dyes, antibiotics (Markus, et al, 1989), and other chemicals that may contribute 
to overall ill-health or even be a source of allergic sensitivity in some animals (Parke and Lewis, 1992). Consider a high end chicken, turkey or lamb diet, available from pet stores, health food stores or your veterinarian. If one can improve overall health of the animal (and, therefore, of the skin), allergies and fleas will not usually cause such violent skin reactions. 

Conventional veterinary recommendations for the treatment of atopy usually include fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoos and topical treatments (preferably oatmeal based), antihistamines, skin testing and allergy shots, and as a last resort, steroids . Allergy shots (or hyposensitization treatment) are effective approximately 50-80% of the time 
(Scott, et al, 1995). Different antihistamines are usually tried until the one that best controls the itching is found (in my practice, we will usually try 3 different antihistamines to find the one that works best for an individual dog; cats are not usually treated with antihistamines as successfully). Topical medications can be used to soothe hot spots and ear infections. Antibiotics and antifungals are used to control secondary bacterial and Malassezia (yeast) infections. 

Holistic alternatives to these treatments will not only increase the health of the pet, but allow you to use fewer conventional drugs In addition to a superior natural diet, some nutritional supplements may prove helpful. A basic veterinary vitamin-mineral supplement is a must, to start with. High doses of Vitamin C may have an antihistamine-like effect (Johnston, et al, 1992). Some veterinarians have found a combination of antioxidant elements to be helpful; these include carotene (or Vitamin A, in the case of a cat), Vitamin E, and selenium. Other antioxidants, such as quercetin, are used in human allergies. Antioxidants are best used in a broad combination, since most depend on the presence of the others for best action. 
A fatty acid supplement is vital. Fish oil is best, since it supplies the highest levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Flax seed oil is a good second choice-it is not converted to these fatty acids, but may still be helpful. Other vegetable oils, such as safflower oil, sunflower oil or even commercial products such as DermCaps®, contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids and will not control itching as well. 

Herbal treatments may help decrease itching. Chinese herbs are quite effective in some cases, but should be prescribed according to Traditional Chinese Medical principles by a trained practitioner (Bensky and Gamble, 1993). Western herbs that are occasionally helpful might include yellow dock, burdock, nettle, cleavers, chickweed and various tonics, as well as specific antimicrobial and immunostimulant herbs, depending on the presence of concurrent infections. Calendula may help relieve irritated hot spots (Weiss, 1994; Tyler, 1994; Moore, 1994). Even black tea (such as Lipton) can help calm hot spots. 


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Using Homeopathy to help 'counteract' some bad vaccine reactions: 
Thuja is ONE of the many remedies that are good for side effects of vaccines. The ONLY time that Thuja works is when the symptoms of the patient FIT the symptoms of the remedy (i.e. Thuja). Giving Thuja in a mechanical way is not homeopathic, but allopathic. ONE of the basis of homeopathy is "like cures like" or more appropriately said, similar cures similar. Thuja is beneficial to the side effects of vaccines when these symptoms are present: diarrhea, vomiting, eye inflammation, urinary problems, rear leg paralysis and difficult breathing. ONLY when these symptoms are present, is Thuja the right remedy to prescribe. Other remedies that are vaccinosis related are Silicea, Ars. Album, Pyrogenium, Sulphur, Belladona, Antimonium Tartaricum, Apis Mellifica, Aconitum Napellus, Stramonium, Arsenicum Album, Platina, and some others. And each of these remedies has its own symptomatology, which MUST be similar to the symptomatology of the animal in order for them to work.

Magda Aguila
Aquiline Great Danes
Animal Nutrition and
Homeopathic Consultant 
www.danesonline.com/aquilinegreatdanes.htm


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Canine Health Concern:
Interim figures from the Canine Health Census 41 showed that, of those dogs whose owners had reported cancer amongst their animals, 31 percent occurred within three months of vaccination. Of those with a cancerous tumour or other growth at the vaccination site, 67 percent were within three months. 
Other three month vaccine/disease correlations included:

diarrhoea - 68%
allergies - 55%
auto-immune diseases - 55%
colitis - 57%
epilepsy - 65%
loss of appetite - 80%
nervousness - 55%
skin problems - 46%
vomiting - 72%
weight-loss - 63%
behavioural problems - 55%
encephalitis - 75%
kidney damage - 40%
lameness - 52%
liver damage - 47%
rear-end paralysis - 64%
nasal discharges - 84%
'...overall, 55% of all illnesses reported by participants, occurred within the first three months of vaccination. If the vaccine had no bearing on the illness, you would expect to see no more than 25%... 41.75% of all illnesses start within 30 days after vaccination...if vaccination had no bearing...you would expect only 8.2%... 24.56% of illness occurred within seven days, when statistically it should only be 1.92%...' 42
Where dogs contracted the disease they were supposed to be vaccinated against, the three month figures are:

hepatitis - 63%
parainfluenza - 50%
parvovirus - 68%
distemper-55%
leptospirosis - 100%...


'This supports the view that either vaccines don't protect or can cause the disease itself.' 42 'Routine vaccination is probably the worst thing we do to our animals. They cause all types of illnesses.'
Christina Chambreau DVM

'Acute "diseases" are discharges of toxins and energies...preventing these discharges, vaccines result in chronic disorders.'
Russell Swift DVM

'...introducing foreign material via subcutaneous or intramuscular injection is extremely upsetting...In response to this violation there has been increased auto-immune disease, epilepsy, neoplasia, behavioural problems.'
Mike Kohn DVM

Research, reports etc are at CHC's web site: This is the site of the CHC who work against dogs having vaccines. I lost my horse through vaccine damage, so many complications set in. They also have a wonderful list which is www.egroups.com/group/k9health 
www.asr-svcs.dircon.co.uk/wwwchc/ 

I just wish I had found this group whilst my horse was alive, but it was, sadly, too late. He died through vaccine complications. It should never have happened. All I ask is that you read their site content and draw your own conclusions. Do not leave it until it is too late.

Disturbances of the brain may be either functional or organic. In the former there are no structural changed in the nervous tissue and such conditions in the dog are of less importance than those which fall in the organic category. The main functional disorder of importance is a form of epilepsy which has no obvious cause. It is of fairly common occurrence. Clinical Signs: The owner's attention is first drawn to the occurrence of minor convulsions which last sometimes less than a minute and are usually unaccompanied by loss of consciousness. These attacks tend to become more serious but less frequent as the animal gets older. Attacks can come on suddenly without premonitory symptoms but occasionally the animal appears restless and uneasy immediately prior to the seizure and is lethargic and sleepy looking afterwards.

Treatment: If there has been a history of short attacks which pass off quickly the following remedies will help delay the onset of further seizures. They will also help during the actual attack, limiting it considerably.

Belladonna 30c. This is one of the most frequently indicated remedies, for attacks which are associated with dilated pupils and throbbing pulse. The animal will usually feel abnormally hot.

Stramonium 30c. This remedy has a somewhat similar picture to the preceding one, but there are usually premonitory signs such as staggering with a tendency to fall towards the left side. /Eyes again are dilated and staring.

Hyoscyamus 30c. Indicated when attacks are preceded by shaking of the head and an unsteadiness of gait indicating vertigo. There may be spasmodic closing of eyelids and the mouth is flecked with foam.

Bufo 30c. They symptoms indicative of this remedy frequently commence when the animal is asleep. There may be an accompanying nose bleed. Attacks are usually short in duration.

Cocculus 6c. The main use for this remedy lies more in the preventative sphere and is useful to ward off subsequent attacks. It should be given at regular intervals over a period of a few months. One I use a lot.

Ignatia 6c. Consciousness is usually lost when this remedy is indicated. The head may be shaken to and fro and this precedes hysterical turns.

Cuprum Met. 30c. A useful remedy when convulsions are associated more with meningitis than encephalitis. The head usually assumes a lowered posture and there may be attempts to press it against any suitable object.

Cicta Virosa 30c. This remedy also is associated with meningitis both cerebral and spinal. A prominent indication for its use is a turning of the head and neck to one side. There may be a history of concussion leading to convulsions.

Oenanthe Crocata 6c. This lesser known remedy is associated with sudden convulsive attacks accompanied by twitching of the face head and muscles and symptoms suggestive of lock-jaw.

Absinthum 6c. Indicated when attacks are preceded by excitement and twitching of various kinds. The dog tends to face backwards and ther bay be unequal dilation of pupils.

Some forms of epilepiform convulsions have their origin in conventional vaccination and the possibility of this should always be borne in mind. If it is suspected that attacks date from such vaccination, the nosode Distemperium or other appropriate one should be used in conjunction with selected remedies. Usually two doses of any nosode are sufficient, spacing them one week apart.

Epilepsy can take different forms, Myclonic,Absence, light sensitive, sound sensitive. Somewhere there is a trigger. If you read through the remedies and spot one that describes as near as possible the dogs problem, that is the one to try first. Also, watch out for food triggers and check on vaccination dates. Keep a short diary of the dog between attacks so some pattern may be seen forming. What you did, what you fed, what exercise, how the dog appeared etc. this is what I had to do, but eventually, a pattern formed, and it was easier to prescribe.

Taken from The Treatment of Dogs with Homeopathy by George Macleod with additional information courtesy of L. Nuttal

IRRITATED EYES

One of the most common eye conditions we see in our pets is conjunctivitis. It's also known as pinkeye and is an inflammation of the membrane covering the inside of the eyelids end the front of the eye. The eyes may very, be red, have crusty discharge, itch or show lots of pus in them. Some simple remedies can be used to reduce the discomfort.

The condition of a pet's eyes can also frequently be an indication of the total health of the animal. It can tell us about other things that are out of balance or need attention. Runny eyes for instance could be a symptom of worms or an infection or allergies. You should always take the temperature of the animal to be sure it's not an indication ofa more serious problem like distemper. Many of the stresses we put our pets through show up immediately as eye problems: vaccinations, poor feed, physical stress, pollution, chemical medications and preservatives for starters. Other things that show up as eye troubles are liver problems and thyroid imbalances.

Some breeds are pre-disposed to having eyelashes that rub the eye or tear duct problems. Also, hair may be in the pet's eyes irritaing them. You can either trim the hair short or brush it back away from their eyes.Another thing that can cause red or dry eyes is windy conditions. Keeping your dog's head inside the car when it is moving is one way to stop this happening. There is also the possibility that something could get blown into the dogs eyes this way.

One of the first things you need to do, regardless of the cause of the problem is to clean the eyes and out and make sure they are kept clean. You may need to do this up to 3 or 4 times a day. You can use any of the solutions as listed below dipped onto a paper towel, or plain tissue or gauze and wipe around the eyes. Cotton Wool is not good as some of the fibres may come away into the eye and cause even more problems.

Another use for these solutions is to use them as a compress. Soak a cloth with the lukewarm solution end gently place this over the affected eye and allow to soak for a few minutes. It your pet has hard, crusty discharges, this may be a necessary first step in softening them enough to remove them without hurting your friend.

Do not use human eye drops which contain various chemicals which can be injurious to your animal friends.
Various substances can be used as solutions to aid in cleaning the eyes. A simple salt solution is effective. Make it by dissolving a teaspoon salt in a pint of distilled water. To this you can add herbal tinctures like a drop of euphrasia extract. If you cannot get hold of euphrasia extract, use a homeopathic pill, 30c, mixed with mineral water. Put the pill into an amber dropper bottle, without handling it. Then percuss, this means banging the bottle onto the palm of your hand until it dissolves, then it can be used. It is wise to percuss prior to each use. About 12 times should dilute the pill, but do make sure before using.
Infusions of herbs can be soothing too. Some of the herbs that can be used are: chamomile, fennel, balm leaves, raspberry leaf, elder blossom euphrasia (eyebright}, chickweed, or ground ivy. These can be made by steeping a heaping teaspoon of

The herb in a cup of boiling water, straining after 5 minutes and cooling.

Also soothing is the juice of raw cucumbers or I drop of olive oil, castor oil or cod-liver oil for dry eyes placed directly in the eye. Milk with an herbal infusion in it could also be used.

To administer eye drops you can either use a small dropper or dip your clean forefinger into the solution and let it drip oft your finger into the animal's eye. Also, soaking a tissue or bit of paper towel with the remedy and Letting it drip into their eye can be done.

Herbs can be helpful when used internally as well adding parsley and dill to the diet can help with maintaining good eye conditions. Also, euphrasia ofricinalis can be used internally. It can be given as an infusion by steeping ½ teaspoon of the herb in 1 cup of boiling water. Strain and cool This can be added to their food: 1 teaspoon to cats and small dogs and 1 tablespoon for larger dogs.

An herbal mixture that could be used as a daily tea could include salt or some of these plants: bilberry to enhance the vision, echinacea root to help combat infections, euphrasia (cyobright) for inflammation, red raspberry oaf to strengthen the eyes, red root to help remove toxins and usnea lichen to help combat infectons. The same dosages as for the euphrasia infusion would apply.

Nutritional supplements can also aid in keeping the eyes healthy. Vitamin A given as cod-liver oil will help. Give cats 14 teaspoon a day, medium dogs 1 teaspoon and larger dogs 2 teaspoons a day vitamin E should be given too: cats and small dogs get 5 100 U a day, medium dogs 200 U, and larger dogs get 400 IU daily. Vitamin C is another excellent supplement to give Dosage should be raised up to bowel tolerance.,Of note, is that Vitamins complex including niacin and pantothenic acid can be helpful, but only if the formula does not contain yeast as it can cause eye allergies. 10-50 mg daily should be given Trace minerals also maybe helpful and the quantities to give are one eighth of a teaspoon daily for small dogs and cats,one quarter of a teaspoon for medium dogs and half a teaspoon daily for larger dogs.

Several homeopathic remedies can be helpful when treating eye conditions, but you must be sure to carefully match the remedy to the animal's condition. Arsenicum Album can be used when the eye discharges cause skin irritation. Euphrasia can be given internally or as a homeopathic eye drop. It is indicated when there is sticky mucus in the eyes, Kali Bichromicum can be used when the eyelids are swollen and the discharge is yellow and ropy When the eyelids stick together in the morning, Kali Carbonicum may be indicated. An injury to the eye would be helped by Symphytum. Zincum Metallicum is frequently used for conjunctivitis when there is itching and soreness with squinting or rolling of the eyes. Silicea can also be used when debris is in the eye. Apis can help wth eye troubles brought on by allergies

The remedy shoud be given in the form of the lower doses, under 30c. You can either place the tablets or pills directly into the animal's mouth or mix them in a little water and give the water. The rate at which you give the remedy will vary. You can start by giving it once, and waiting for half an hour. If there is some improvement, give it again. This can be done several times, as long as you see continued improvement. If there is no improvement within 24 hours, the correct remedy was probably not used and you should discontinue use of the selected remedy

If a substances gets in the eye that you need assistance to remove, you can rinse the eye with fresh milk or you can rinse with a bone acid solution made by dissolving ¼ teaspoon boric acid in ½ cup boiling water. Cool and store in the refigerator.Keeps for about a week. Also, a mix of Bicarb.of Soda in boiled and luke warm water can be used. You may want to take your friend to the vet if there appears to be significant scratching of the eye for a check.
A poultice of grated raw potato can be placed in gauze or other soft fabric and placed over the eyes to relieve swelling of the eyelids.

The need for a good, balanced raw foods diet cannot be stressed too heavily when trying to overcome chronic eye conditions. Of the long list of healthy foods that should be fed, a few stand out as being particularly helpful. Carrots, celery, including the leaves, sesame seed, honey, molasses, carob, potatoes, eggs, rabbit, cod, beef, beef liver, chicken gizzards, ground port, brown rice, corn, spinach, lettuce, poultry, wheat.

Foods that shouldn't be fed include yeast or any of the foods that an animal may be allergic to including some of those stated above like wheat or poultry. Occasionally, even beef can cause allergy problems.

Chronic eye conditions that are not alleviated by the simple techniques and remedies described, should be diagnosed by your veterinarian and dealt with properly through a holistic approach. We certainly don't want to ignore the underlying problem by treating just the eye symptoms. But in the meantime, you can make your pet much more comfortable.

Watery eyes can be due to a trace element deficiency leading to a lack of vitamin B12. This vitamin is made by the bacteria of the gut using cobalt and, if there is not enough cobalt to make it or not enough of it, one result is that the tears lose their viscosity and become watery. Thus, they run out of the eye instead of lubricating it. You could give a mineral/trace element supplement such as Trace AniMinerals daily in food, plus some B12 for perhaps a week. There is no good scientific (or any other) reason for vaccinating annually. You could have blood titres done or simply go for boostering every three years (but not into old age).

Conjunctivitis

Diet: change to natural preservative free diet and good supplement programme. (I have these on file if you want a copy). Zinc is a brilliant supplement for healing eye problems. Slices of cucumber held over the eyes can cool hot, inflamed eyes, or the juice can be used as eyedroppers!

Aromatherapy: Soak some cotton wool in boiled tepid water with a few drops of chamomile and hold over they eye.

Herbs: Tea made from eyebright or goldenseal can be used to bathe the eye. Vit. E can be added to the liquid to enhance the healing process. A pad of cotton wool soaked in witch hazel can be held over shut eyes. Eyebright and goldenseal can be taken internally as well.

Homeopathy: Use euphrasia diluted in water for bathing the eye, apis mel for sudden attacks and swelling. Use euphrasia tablets for profuse watering and argent.nit for uncomplicated eye cases.

Euphrasia Tincture / Homeopathic -Mix 1 level tsp. table salt to 1/2 pint (300ml) boiled, cooled water. Add 2 drops of euphrasia tincture. For relief of eye inflammation.

Nutritionally, cataracts can be induced by deficiency of vitamins B2 and C, and the mineral calcium. May be prevented (in humans) with 10mg B2 daily, 500mg C daily, and 500mg calcium daily. (Thorson's Complete Guide to Vitamins and Minerals)

Eyebright formula:
The new Dr. Schulze formula is equal parts of eyebright herb, bayberry bark, red raspberry, and goldenseal and one half to one full part of cayenne.

The best way to use it is make a tincture of these herbs, putting them in a blender and pouring in enough 80-100 proof vodka to cover them. Then turn on the blender and make it into a mash, like apple sauce. Make it on the New Moon and let it sit until the Full Moon, making sure to shake or stir it everyday. On the Full Moon, press or strain off the liquid.

Use the tincture as an eye wash. Put five to ten drops into an eyecup, along with distilled water. Wash your eyes with it six times a day for severe cases and use internally, three to six dropper fulls a day.

Well, Dr. Christopher put in one-eighth part cayenne, that was his high dosage of cayenne. I started adding four to eight times that for the average person. That becomes one-half to one full part of cayenne, and the cayenne I recommend is 250,000 heat units strong.

I have not seen any real effect with that formula without the cayenne. I have never met or run into anybody who said they only used eye bright and healed
their eyes. It just didn't happen. But here in the clinic, I saw people get rid of their glasses and I saw lots of cataracts go away.

Eyewash:

Cold infuse over night: Eyebright, Chamomille, Comfrey, Chapparral. Simmer
on low 30 minutes, add Goldenseal tincture, take off heat (alcohol will
diminish in no time).

I took what I needed the first day and kept the rest on the herbs for two
more days, straining only today to fridge...warm slightly before use. Wash/rinse with it and keep a compress on eye for a few minutes.

A few drops in eyes of Colloid Silver will quite often help soothe irritation as it is well known as an antiseptic anti biotic.

Combination of article courtesy of L. Nuttal and unknown author

FLEA TREATMENTS

Why not try some Bach Crab Apple to cleanse the dogs system, just in case there is an allergic reaction to something, even the fleas. It can't harm.

This is a paragraph on Fleas taken directly from 'The Natural Way for Dogs and Cats' by Midi Fairgrieve.

Although fleas can affect any pet, the healthier the dog is, the less likely it is to become infested. Fleas prefer animals in poor health with lowered immune systems and are usually o