Protecting Pets From Poisons - And How We Are Exposed To More Toxins Than You Humans

HACK!HACK!HACK!HACK!

Ahem. Excuse me. I've just come back from a howl-iffic visit with my pal, and his human was cleaning the house. We were running around, playing with his doggie kong, when all of a sudden I felt like I couldn't breathe - tears were burning in my eyes, and my skin was all hot and itchy. My human grabbed me and got me outta there, just in the knick of time. Dog bless her.

Turns out, our human host was cleaning with chemical household cleaners - totally toxic and not pet-friendly! In fact, not anyone friendly, but this post isn't just about anyone. It's about you and me. Pet pals.

Pets Exposed To More Toxins Than Humans

We, naturally, live in a natural world. But unfortunately our natural world is infused with chemicals - all around us! Humans are obsessed with detoxifying themselves, but often don't think about the toxins that we pets are exposed to. Well guess what people, we ARE exposed to chemicals, lots of them, and most of the time even more than you humans! Why? Primawily because we are so much smaller, and lower to the ground. Think about it: who spends time running through and munching on pesticidy grass? We do. Who eats tasty, stinky, rotting morsels off the ground? We do. Who loves to hunt around in moldy, asbestos and fiberglass filled crawl spaces? We do. We pets are exposed to more than just household cleaners: chemicals are in our flea sprays and collars, our non-organic foods, our plastic toys, your pesticides, your cigarette smoke, and your furniture.

The point is: we crawlers are constantly exposed to toxic substances, which can seriously harm our tiny bodies and potentially cause illness - and even death.

Herbicides And Bladder Cancer In Pets

Lets take, for example, a recent study at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., which revealed that the risk of bladder cancer was significantly increased among Scotties exposed to lawns or gardens treated with both herbicides and insecticides or with herbicides only. According to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, "The prevalence of bladder cancer in dogs examined at veterinary teaching hospitals in North America increased by more than 600 percent between 1975 and 1995" (from the Environmental Working Group) When chemicals are sprayed on a lawn, it's recommended that people and pets stay off the ground for 24 hours. Fine enough, but aren't the chemicals released into the air? We're still breathing the stuff in - and don't tell me that after 24 hours the grass we roll around in has NO chemical residue left. I mean, where the ruff does it go? Pu-leeze. My suggestion: use natural alternatives to lawn care, and eliminate the problem. Is a perfectly green, moss-free lawn that necessary, anyhowl?

Poisonous Chemicals and Death

Most peeps know not to use household cleaners around their kids. More and more families aren't using them, and are looking for natural alternatives. But many "single" pet "owners" don't think twice about using chemicals around their pets (which is crazy, because they're also exposing THEMSELVES to chemicals! Yapyapyap.). They clean out toilet bowls with bleach, then their pet pals come along and take a long drink. They clean their floors, then their beloved furry friend comes to eat lunch - probably dropping tidbits onto the floor, which is now swathed in a chemical. The result: liver and kidney damage, and/ or respiratory problems.

A Sad, Sad Story - A Poisoned Parrot

Lest you think that toxins are as obvious as pesticides and household cleansers, read this:

Teflon Tragedy Reminds Us That It Is Best to Not Keep These Pans in Homes with Birds

"On Dec 23rd, 2004 I was using an old pot that had most of the teflon worn off of it to boil water to put a little moisture in the air. I was doing this for the people in the house as well as for my 9 year old Soloman Island Eclectus, Ruby. I do not like it when the air is real dry in the house. It was about 11:00 pm when I fell asleep. At 2:30 in the morning on Christmas eve, Ruby started screaming for me. I ran to the cage and pulled of the cover. She was on the bottom of the cage, shaking like she was freezing. I picked her up and held her to my chest. She uddered a few tiny sounds, then she was gone. I walked into the kitchen, still holding her. To my horror, I saw the empty pot on the red hot coils.

I feel tremendous guilt over killing my baby. Please, everyone who reads this and is a parent to a parrot, believe with every ounce of your being, the dangers of teflon. The pot I was using was old and worn out, but still had enough teflon left to kill my baby from 30 feet away. I was playing with her the night before, and she cried for me like usual when I put her to bed. She was gone in an instant, don't let it happen to you." Jim in Tennessee

From Parrot Parrot (amazing bird advice, thanks guys!)

Symptoms Your Pet Has Been Poisoned

Here are some symptoms that your pet has inhaled or ingested something toxic:

• panting
• drooling
• vomiting
• voiding green or black urine
• muscle tremors

Take your pet to the vet or emergency, immediately!

Protecting Pets From Poisons

It's true, many chemicals can kill a very large amount of bacteria and viruses. But they can also kill us. Isn't that insane? Especially considering that many natural ingredients have the potential to kill the same amount of germs, without the toxic side-effects. Here's a great link on how to protect us. And check out Green Paws, for info on pet products and how to avoid the chemicals in them.

As, always, I am your devoted health-servant for life, Buster

Photo Credit: dwipal

Zen And The Art Of Hyper-Pet Maintenance

Holy Cows, did I make my human crazy today! I was ruffing yapping all over the place one minute, then licking the walls the next. Koo-koo! I could not - absolutely not - hear a word she said. I refused to sit, even for treats. I didn`t have to, I was busy inhaling crumbs the size of my paws all afternoon. Hunh? What had gotten into me?

I`ll tell you what. Today was the toddler`s birthday, and a bus load of caffeine-fueled parents and their kids showed up - it was Grand Frantic Energy Central, that`s what. There was vegan strawberry cake (YUM), circus music, and balloons. Many popped, I peed with excitement. I was OUTTA control, in a frenzy, acting like a crazy pup.

Sound familiar? Probably. Humans have become obsessive compulsive about their ADD/ADHD, and we pets are no different. Some of us yap incessantly, some of us licklicklick (I don't know why, but the noise of my tongue against fur makes my human CRAZY), and some of us bounce off the walls.

It could be easy to interpret this kind of behavior as BAD, or deem your pet untrain-able. However, just like humans, there can be many reasons why an animal is hyper active - and you, dear human, can do something about it!

Hyperactivity In Animals

Like humans, we pets have sensitive systems. Loud noises, frenetic energy, and high-glycemic foods can all influence our moods - and can be extremely stimulating! The result: your pet, backing-and-forthing, barking and meyowling, and ripping up pillows.

Animals, like humans, have our own personalities. While it is in our animal nature to sometimes sleep all day (kitties), or nose around (doggies) or even run the treadmill at night (hammies), many times our consistency can be altered. Do you find that your pup goes crazy at the sight of his friends when they meet? Yea, typical. We're happy fellas! You can't begrudge us that. How many cats go from 0 to 60 at the flick of a string? Right. That sort of stuff is in our nature.

What's not in our nature is to be incessant or obsessive about things, as mentioned above (even though YES terriers are known to be super hyper, and we border collies have our quirks, too). Naturally, we can be brought back down to Earth.

Natural Chill Pills

Chilling us out can be simple, but you human's must be diligent. This means taking a look around our environments, to see what may be causing us to explode with energy! Here are some suggestions for calming us down:

Tip #1: Tone down the environment. Turn down the TV (better yet, keep it out of our space if you can) - the electrical energy, moving pictures and noises are incredibly stimulating! Turn down music too, and choose calm, soothing tunes.

Tip #2: Keep natural light, instead of bright, artificials on. The flicker of light bulbs can influence our own eye movement/brain waves, and natural is really the best. Better yet: turn the lights off. It works for my human when she's trying to get our little 4 year old Jake to bed!

Tip #3: Choose low-glycemic, gluten-free foods for us. High sugars spike our own blood sugar (just like humans) and cause all kinds of trubb! Like, for example, that vegan cake.

Tip #4: Exercise! Let us burn off that extra energy - either by taking us for a walk/run, or playing around with us.

Tip #5: Aromatherapy! Lavender is one of the chillest oils on the planet. Use it, dawgs. I`m telling yaw`ll. Read about it HERE.

The Zen Approach

Ultimately, worrying about calming down your pet will end up causing you anxiety. The best remedy: acceptance. Knowing that we pets, just like humans, can have moments of extreme behaviors, will help you to stay present. And calm. Remember, we catch your vibes, too!

Heythere'stheneighbor'scatIgottaflyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy - Buster

Myrrh- An Ancient Ingredient For Allergy Treatment

A ruffing long time ago, three very smart humans supposedly brought some very special stuff to a certain special someone. That kid was the lucky recipient of the most valuable goods of the times: gold, frankincence, and myrrh.
Photo Credit: sonya
Ancient Ingredient

Gold was obvious, since a kids need more than just a wooden-leg up in the world - they wanted to give him every opportunity to make it! Frankincense makes sense too, to ward off evil spirits and bad energies - c'mon, you've all seen Frankenstein, right? And Myrrh, well this cure-all healing herb was the best anti-inflammatory around - perfect for a newborn's allergies, of course! That poor babe was brought into the world surrounded by animals and hay - prime breeding ground for asthmatic conditions and respiratory ailments. Of course those wise men brought that kid some immune-enhancing stuff! It just so happens that we animals are affected by allergies too - and when we have a reaction, we need help.

Allergic Symptoms In Animals

Animals get allergies just like humans - we just don't always show ours the same way.
Some symptoms that show we are allergic are:

• Allergic rhinitis (nasal cavity reaction to dust, mold, cigarette smoke, litter dust etc.)
• Allergic pneumonia in dogs (lung reaction from Aspergillus fungus, pollen, heartworm microfilariae etc.)
• Allergic dermatitis (skin reaction due to food allergy, contact allergy, cutaneous drug eruptions, atopy-allergic inhalant dermatitis etc.)
• Allergic gastroenteritis (reaction of stomach and intestines - vomiting, diarrhea due to food allergy)
• Allergic blepharitis (eyelid reaction to molds, dust, pollen, topic medications etc.)

Myrrh To The Rescue

Most important to humans - and now animals! - is Myrrh's use in medicine. It is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and can help move the blood - so it is great for circulatory and nervous problems, as well as cleaning wounds. It can help strengthen the immune system, by reducing inflammation - and allergic reactions.

Myrrh Makes Me Purr

Myrrh is a reddish-brown tree sap (similar to the one that sticks to my fur like gum), that comes from a number of different trees: all native to parts of Africa and the Middle East. This sap is really earthy smelling - not stinky like I like it - and has been used by humans for thousands of years to make incense, perfume wine, and preserve bodies. It has also been used as a haling ointment and drink, to stimulate immunity, heal wounds and reduce inflammation. It is also mildly analgesic (yapyap: a pain reliever) so it is especially good in tinctures, healing ointments and on skin irritations - which is why my human Sage uses it on my flea bites (I am pawticularly sensitive to these critters). I feel so doggone ancient when she "annoints" me with her precious salve!

I really am a Holy Dog.I may be a forward thinking dawg, but I sure like my paws steeped in ancient wisdom. Especially when they help stop my allergic reactions!

High-five At-choooooo (excuse me!), Buster

Photo Credit: glenmaclarty

Cutest Animal Babies In The World!

Ah, babies. I loves them. Who doesn't? Every month I get piles of letters and photos from my animal pals around the world, and sometimes they're just too cute not to share. Behold some of the bestest! Couldn't you just roll over?!

Photo Credit: macjewell

Little Jersey from, you got it, Jersey. Isn't she adaw-able? I just love her little pink nose.
Photo Credit: bigtallguy

Ok, Baby Borscht. Someone has to teach li'l one to quit cramming! Unless he's studying. Ahem.
Photo Credit: carolyncoles

Seriously. Are you really this ca-yute?
Photo Credit: wili

Well lookie here, the Easter Bunny dropped a little something off early this year! Those EARS! Sigh. Gorgeous. Photo Credit: mindfire

You, little cheep cheep, make me want to bury my nose and sniff hot air into you.
Photo Credit: cliche



And you, dollface, are a little poundcake. Smooches, pooches.
Photo Credit: photos

Feline And Canine Warts - Can Humans Catch Them? No.

Oh, Dog. I've been chewing and chewing at this little nubbin' all day, thinking that it was a little tick poking out of my fur. It's a small, red, hard spot, and nothing's doing! My human Sage finally came around to check out the spot, and swiftly offed me to the vet.

Turns out, I have "viral papilloma" - a wart. Yes, I have a ruffing growth, ok? It's no big deal, it's benign. Meaning not cancerous. It doesn't mean I'm dirty or gross or anything like that (even though I think I look paw-ticularly my best when I'm dirty and, ahem, gross).

Cause Of Warts

A wart is most often caused by a virus, that's all. While older dawgs and cats are more prone to them, they can occur in a younger fella, like me - the Papilloma Virus usually affects us youngins, when our immune systems are underdeveloped. Warts can also develop in subaceous glands, or grow on the face and eyes - these can sometimes be cancerous. But for the most part, warts are often painless, light-colored growths, and don't bother us at all. And they shouldn't bother you, either!

Humans Can't Catch Pet Warts; Pets Can't Catch Human's Warts

The wart virus, Papilloma, cannot be transferred across species lines. Therefore, you can't get your human's wart, and they can't get yours. But we can, us dawgs or cats, give it to eachother. The incubation period can be up to 1 -2 months.

Pet Warts: Not Dangerous!

Most warts clear up on their own, as our immune systems take care of them. Many vets will recommend removal and biopsy, since they are a growth, but they can safely be left alone and just monitored. Sometimes, an unfortunate pup will have a serious overgrowth - and will be left unable to see or chew foods. In this sad case, some warts can be removed and made into a virus, or doses of azithromycin can be given. Natural approaches to treatment are also available!

Natural Treatments

My human favors the natural treatment approach, most of the time. Try applying Vitamin E or castor oil directly to the wart, a few times a day for several weeks. And make sure your pet's immune system is strong, by ensuring proper nutrition (read my gluten-free post HERE) exercise, and happiness.

Lick you later (since I'm not contagious!), Buster

Photo Credit: photo_blackangel

Doggy Daycare - Tips On Choosing The Right One!

As yaw'll know by now, I am one social dawg. I'm a regular at our community daycare, where me and my pals hang around a lot together. My gal is there too - you know, the one with the long red hair. She's such a peach. Sigh.

My human Sage was getting so busy around the house, what with her home-based writing and our new baby. I needed attention! So she found the best place ever for me: doggy daycare. I run around, play, learn new tricks and obedient behaviors. They feed me delish treats, and sometimes I even get a mani/pedi (my nails grow fast, dawgs!).

Sounds de-luxe, right? My human did good. Of course. So how do you get your human to pick the best daycare ever?

Why Pet Daycare

Pets are family members, too. And when caregivers get too busy to be with pets all the time, daycares can provide stimulation and companionship. Pets won't be lonely at home (which can lead to all kinds of trouble, including aggressive acting out by pet, ruffing up the house, and anxiety). Pet daycares are also great for teaching pets proper behavior, and how to socialize.

Not All Pet Daycares Are Created Equal

Your pet pals are like your babies. Choosing a daycare is like choosing a babysitter for your child- you want to give them the best care around! Here are some tips on choosing a daycare:

Tip #1: What are you looking for? Ask yourself what you are looking for: a few hours of play? Full grooming? Outdoor time? What is your budget? Answering these questions will help you narrow down a location.

Tip #2: Source and Referral. Yap of mouth is key. Ask your vet, fellow pet caregivers, and local pet store for referrals. And check for reviews online - these days everyone loves to give their opinion!

Tip #3: Certification! This is key, humans: make sure the daycare is certified, licensed and bonded in your state! You're not hiring your local teenager to babysit your pet.

Tip #4: Yap up! Ask as much as possible. If your pet is little, you'll want to ensure a class with like-sized dawgs. Same goes with a larger animal. And let the caregivers know what sort of a pet you have: confident, shy, affectionate, super-yappy - your daycare provider can help remedy these situations.

Tip #5: Audition. You should be able to observe, and watch the daycare in action. That way if you notice anything you don't like, you can cross the daycare off your list. If you do like it, as for a drop-in. You and your dog can see how you feel there, and gradually get into the new routine.

Sourcing A Daycare

We've found a great daycare directory, HERE. You can search by area, and all states are covered.

And now I'm off to see my pals, and playplayplay!

Love, Buster

Photo Credit: jimwinstead

The Herby Pet - Aromatherapy For Animals!

I've yapped about this before, but my Dog my human is a Mistress Manipulator of my moods! When I'm wound up, she calms me down, when I'm lazy she knows how to energize me. Notonly that, she knows how to keep me flea and tick-free. What's her secret? Something called aromatherapy!

See, just like our humans, we pets are affected by scent. Deeply affected.

What Is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the healing use of botanicals, in their essential oil form. When the molecules are sniffed, they instantly become part of our body's central nervous system. Not only that, topically they can kill bacteria and viruses - on surfaces and in the air. Bugs can't survive in the presence of some oils, and other oils can help heal wounds when they are put onto the skin.

Aromatherapy comes in many forms: incense, potpourri, diffusers and room sprays, which work to release the scent molecules into the air; and perfumed personal care products, which enter the body through the nostrils or the skin.

My human uses perfumed sprays for my fur, which I inhale all day long. They help calm me, and keep me from barking incessantly. She also lights her aromatherapy burner sometimes, like when I hurt myself and I need to calm down.

Aromatherapy For Pets

My human uses essential oils alot, to keep our home bug-free and me happy. Try these easy at-home tips:

Tip #1: Fleas hate tea-tree oil! Add 20 - 30 drops of tea-tree oil to your pet shampoo. Massage all throughout your pet, and try to leave on for at least 5 minutes. Tea-tree oil is really strong smelling, and has a cooling, mentholating effect - just watch our eyes! Stingy!

Tip #2: Cedarwood is Anti-Buggy! A few drops of cedarwood oil, blended with a little cayenne pepper powder, will keep bugs from nesting. My human blends in a spray bottle, and sprays the door frames, corners, and window frames at least once per month.

Tip #3: Natural Flea-Collar! Purchase a nylon or cotton collar, and soak it in a mixture of 10 drops lavender and 10 drops eucalyptus oil, blended with water. Don't wash it, just let it dry. Then let your pet wear it! It will work as long as you can smell the oils - replace when you can't smell anymore. Your pet will be flea-free!

Tip #4: Ticks Don't Do Cloves! Mix a blend of cloves and cinnamon in a spray bottle of water: 20 - 30 drops. Spray your feline or canine before heading into the woods - we won't bring any ticks home with us!

Tip #5: Soothe Itchy Scratchy. I wounded myself last month, and my human applied lavender oil straight from the bottle to my wound. It was a little burny, but helped get rid of the sting almost right away. She said it killed the bacteria, helped my skin restore, and calmed my nervous system. It helped that she burned lavender in her aromatherapy burner, too!

I know we pets love to roll around in some dog-awful smelly stuff. But I really don't mind smelling sweet - when my human takes the time to help me stay clean and clear! I know you won't too, fuzzy pals.

Herbaliciously yours, Buster

Photo Credit: ellievanhoutte

Cop Chicks, Bitches!

Lest you think all chicks are pure feather-brains.

Wheat Gluten - Not Part Of Pet's Natural Diet!

My human Sage wrote recently about man's search for immortality. I myself wouldn't mind living like a cat with nine lives! If I were a wild dog, chances are I would live to approximately 40 - but domesticated like, my life span has dwindled to 12 or 13, like my pal on the left. Why? Chalk it up to a totally inappropriate diet!

Ok, so to be fair my human Sage feeds me fresh meats and veggies - I'll probably be yapping long after some of my pals are gone. Dog she's smart. She feeds me what my body is naturally predetermined to digest and use as fuel. But most folks rely on their vet's advice on food, and guess what? It's ruffing filled with wheat and grains, totally not what animals are supposed to eat!

Pizza Not For Pets!

You see, wheat gluten may play a role in chronic illness and degenerative diseases in your beloved pets. We are, by nature, meat chompers. According to researchers (read this book), a wild dog's natural diet consisted of "bones, pieces of carcass, rotten greens and fruit, fish guts, discarded seeds and grains, animal guts and heads, some discarded human food and wastes". Stinky, the way we like it. Cats are completely carniverous, loving their small mice and rats. This means our diets are made up of large amounts of animal protein and fats, water, and little in the way of carbohydrates.

Pets Should Avoid Gluten!

Most vets and their training books educate that cats and dogs don't do gluten. We don't need it, and we don't eat it. So why is most commercially prepared - and vet prescribed - pet food filled with grain?! Not only that, they're low in proteins and water. I don't know about yaw'll, but I only gnawed on cardboard once. And it was howl-ible. Wet food may look more like the meats that we like to eat, but again, they're filled with wheat gluten. Blech! People, we can't digest this stuff! It leaves us bloated, crampy, gassy, and nauseous. You've probably noticed that happens to you and your bums when you eat gluten, too. Right? Keep that golden shaft away from us, please.

How Wheat Gluten Can Poison Us:

Veterinarian John B. Symes yaps that the lectins of gluten (wheat, barley, rye) dairy products (e.g. casein, lactalbumin) soy, and corn are all capable of inducing serious health issues in those humans who are sensitive to them - and us pets! He barks: "The Irish Setter is a breed known to suffer from gluten intolerance, but it is clear that gluten is affecting many other breeds of dogs and cats. And why wouldnt it? It is affecting humans and we have had millennia to adapt to eating wheat. Our pets have only been eating wheat-based pet foods for about 20 years now." According to him anyone who consumes or feeds these foods to their pets on a daily basis will encounter resulting health problems-rheumatoid arthritis, type-one diabetes, lupus, etc. On a grain-based diet, it's just a matter of time. Yelp!

Why We Pets Shouldn't Have Gluten:

Basically, gluten creates inflammation. Inflammation means acidic tissues, and that's where disease loves to grow! I'll bark again: we need meatmeatmeat, a few veggies, and lots of pure water. That's it! Commercial pet foods are high in grains, increased fiber and carbohydrates - especially senior, light and diet foods. Older and overweight pets usually respond well to increased protein and fats gained through a diet rich in meat, not grains. Also, many dogs on the dangerous non-steroidal and steroid drugs so commonly prescribed for dogs may see marked improvements in their conditions and, in fact, may no longer need such drugs, which tend to shorten dogs lives. Many owners who feed their pets fewer grains see less inflammation.

List To Avoid!

Read your food labels. Avoid the following:

- Wheat Flour

- Barle

- Rye

- Oats

- Soy products

- Food starches (cornstarch)

- Brown rice syrup

- Sausages

- Malt vinegar

- White pepper

- Pastas

- Pickles

- Semolina

- Bulgur

- Wheat Grass

What You, Human, Can Feed Us!

If you have the time and energy, homemade food is best. Check out these recipe links: HERE , and HERE . Or, find a great pet food that is gluten free.

All this yapping is making me hungry. I'm going to forage around for something chewy... Who wants a treat?

Me too. Love, Buster
Photo Credit: ma1974

Your Pet May Predict Your Death!

Ever wondered when or how you were going to die?

Your live-in pet may know.

When I was little (er), my human Sage and I were in Los Angeles visiting family when all of a sudden I started whooping it up. The urge to yelp came from deep inside me - I couldn`t control it! I felt as though something were wrong, terribly wrongwrongwrongwrongwrong! I had to go outsideoutsideoutside! Wouldn`t you know it, a short while later we had an earthquake. I had been feeling the Earth move, before my humans did. I had smelled it.

For years as long as dog`s ears, humans have told about animals sensing death and natural disasters before they happen.

It has been yapped that after the Asian Tsunami in January of 2004, few dead animals were found - they had moved to higher ground just before it hit. In July 2007, the New England Journal of Medicine profiled the now famous Oscar the Cat, who predicted deaths of patients in nursing homes by sitting with them in their beds, hours before they passed. According to the BBC, we canines are now being trained to sniff out diabetes in our handlers, after it was proven that we can sniff out certain cancer cells, illegal drugs and explosives. I even heard a bark about a dog who kept alerting its human to a cancerous freckle, and a woman who says her pet-pal warns her that she`s going to have a seizure 40 minutes before it happens.

It`s believed by scientists that with our super-human (pardon the pun) smell, we pets can identify dangerous substances in the air long before humans. It is said that humans once possessed this most amazing ability, but through evolution and revolution you have lost it. Let me tell you, people, I would work on bringing it back to speed. It`s a gift I think we should all have.

The next time your fuzzy friend comes to nuzzle you a little too much - like say, in the same area over and over again - consider it a good idea to head to the docs for a check-up.

Either that or take a bath.

Smell you later, Buster

Photo Credit: Piez

Photo Credit: Fazen

Yipee, N. Algozine! You've Won Testimonial of the Month!

Dear, dear, Petlovers,

On behalf of my fellow beasts, we loveslovesloves you! We love that you care for us and feed us, and help us stay happy. We know you loves us, too.You tell us all the time.

This month I'd like to extend my paw to N. Algozine, who tells us how much she loves her kitties, how her kitties have prospered, and will live longer!Congratulations N. Algozine, to thank you for your winning testimonial you'll be receiving your coupon from me in the (e)mail!N. Algozine writes:

"... Tara was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomopathy (HCM) back in June of this year. All of a sudden we noticed she was getting thin and she was "hiding" on the other side of the house, not wanting to do anything. She didn't even want to run around the house with her brother, which is her favorite thing to do. We thought she had a fever or cold. She was SO sad and lethargic. We took her to the vet and they put her on antibiotics, figuring it was a fever or cold. They told us to come back in a few days if she didn't get better.

Well, we took her back and they did more tests and took an X-ray and saw that her heart walls were thickened and she had water around her heart. They said she has HCM. My husband and I were so upset. The vet said that she would probably only live a couple of more years. She is on 3 medications - Benazepril, Atenolol,and Furosemide.

My husband was looking on the internet for additional things that might help Tara and found your product, Hearty Heart. We immediately purchased 2 bottles and started giving it to her daily, in her food. After a while we started to see our Tara up to her old tricks - running around with her brother and out in the screen room "hunting" for lizards.

We just took her back for a check-up earlier this month and got an excellent report. Her breathing is great and the water around her heart has lessened. Tara is back to her normal self, and I believe that the Healthy Heart has helped Tara's overall health and heart disease. I will continue to give her the Healthy Heart indefinitely. Attached is a picture of Tara and her brother. Tara is on the right."

Well bitches, not only do we love to hear your amazing stories, we love to keep helping you! An online Gift Certificate goes to the winning testimonial every month, so you can keep providing the best ruffing stuff to your pets. Send your testimonials my way! Email them to me at

Bow-wow, Buster

Photo Credit: polandeze

Images shared by: N. Algozine

Trade Cockatiel for Wedding Ring - WTRuff?!

Sometimes I wonder what the ruff humans are thinking. Don't they know that pets are people, too?

Recently a little birdie I know gave me an earful, regarding a certain human and his prized pet. Seems he has want for a certain shiny something, and has publicly offered up his feathered companion through an ad, in exchange. Oh the howl-orror! I just had to share.

Bow-wow, Dude Harrington. My huge heart is with you! I hope by now you've found yourself free as a bird from that oppressive, unjust human.

I'm sure glad that my human thinks I'm worth more than just a yapping rock.

My tears are like diamonds, Buster

Conjuctivitis - Not Just Rosy Colored Glasses!

I'm one happy go-lucky doggy. I look at the world through rosy-colored glasses, and hot dawg is this a great place to be! But this morning I couldn't see a thing - my eyes were ruffing sealed shut with shtuff! When I finally managed to wrench my gooky orbs open, a hazy peek in the mirror told me that my eyes were more than rosy - they were red! And itchy. And watery. Ickickickick! I have Canine Conjunctivitis (also called pink eye)!

I was at doggy daycare again the other day, and that long-eared red-headed bitch (I've mentioned her before) was there, with eyes to match. I hafta admit that she's kinda cute, and I do spend time nipping those ears. I must have caught it from her!

Pets get conjunctivitis the same as humans, and it can spread from dog to dog and cat to cat just as it spreads from human to human. My human Sage doesn't have to worry - she can't get it from me. Thank Dogness. Pink eye is an inflammation of the membrane covering the inside of the eyelids and the front of the eye. Symptoms range from:

- crusty eyes (here!)

- itchy, red eyes (here!here!here!)

- running, teary pus (here.)

While it can be caused by trauma (dog fights, stick in the eye, rolling in poop) and irritations ( hair in the eyes - proper grooming for prevention is key here, folks), it's more often caused by a bacteria. Conventional vets most often prescribe antibiotics (ruffing surprise, right?).

My human takes the natural approach as much as she can, and this morning she immediately grabbed a warm compress and held it over my eye for a few minutes. Oh boy, it felt good and helped soothe that itch! She's been treating me with that a few times this morning, and it's keeping my eyes from sticking shut. She's also been using this stuff called Easy Eye - she puts two to three drops into my eyes throughout the day. Already my eyes look and feel better.

Doggy conjunctivitis isn't hard to treat, but any infection can result in permanent damage if it's left untreated! If after a day of natural treatment my pink eye turns raging red, Sage will take me to my vet and probably go the conventional route. Otherwise, I risk going blind. ACK!

Today is just as rosy as ever, even if it's a little hazy. Forecast: clearer skies tomorrow!

Stay happy, Buster

Photo Credit: aikijuanma

My Top Ten Enlightened Resolutions!

Happy ruffing New Ear, everypals!

I can't believe we're already into 2010 - things have been so zip-a-di-doo-da that I haven't been able to put paw to paper. I've been busy with my brand new set of New Ear's Resolutions!

This Ear I have decided to become enlightened, by giving in to all of my beastly instincts, wants and needs. In doing so, I hope to know myself best - and also end any self-destructive patterns! I think I spent too many nights last ear in the Dawg House - this ear will be different.

And, it's important to keep my doggy traditions alive, so that I can pawse them on to my youngin' AND stroke my sense of self. My human Sage takes care of my body, I take care of my ego. You know.

For you critters out there familiar with a doggy's drive, the following will come as no surprise to you. For the rest of yaw'll, I share the inner workings of my poochy mind:

1. I resolve to better groom myself in a calm, gentle manner. No longer will I incessantly, compulsively licklicklick just anywhere: I will choose each hair carefully, lingering only long enough to coax that hair to its place. This will not only keep my ego in check (I will be dapper: check, I will look slick: check), but will assist me in maintaining a zen-like state.

2. I resolve to keep my herd circled, and within my control. All small objects, including single socks and children's toys, will flock together while I keep watch. This will fulfill my deep drive to protect my stock - and my need for strict organization. I will do this daily, more than several times. In a non-obsessive way, of course.

3. I resolve to maintain my high-energy needs with fresh, healthy food. I will not beg for tasty, though nutrtious-less, human-made morsels. No. I will stay disciplined in my dietary choices, and will feed only when my human schedules me. My body will thank me (probably later and when I am sleeping, but I will know).

4. I resolve to continue to alert my humans to any and all potential dangers. Particularly the tall, gauze-like ghosts that blow in from the windows; and the small, white, paper aliens that descend through the door. But I will refrain from using bite, and use only my bark. I need not harm these dangers with physical force - I am bigger than that.

5. I resolve to let the neighbor's cat think that she is Mistress. I will humor her. She thinks that I am a silly, simple animal - but she knows not the power of the Border Collie. Most importantly, I will train myself to remain still and not respond to her beckoning me to chase her - I will show no display of reaction. Instead, I will maybe raise one eyebrow as I calmly, gently lick my hairs into their place - before I circle and nap. This will make her crazy.

6. I resolve to further engage with the neighbor's cat - but only enough to show her that I, am an enlightened animal. By not reacting to her bullying, manipulating ways, she will learn that I am one cool pup. She will bow-wow to me - and in turn I will bow-wow to her. We will see our evolved selves in each other. We will be free from our perceived conditions. Namaste.

7. I resolve not to prematurely dig up my buried bones. I will not be impatient, but instead will allow the bones to reach their putrid maturity in their own time. The stink will be worth it. I will be so happy.

8. I resolve not to chew my human's brand new, shiny, florescent green shoes. Even if they resemble my favorite tennis ball. I will allow my nose to gently press against the heel, and the tip of my tongue to graze the toes - but this is all. Indulgence in destructive behavior is a symptom from within, and this ear I will control myself.

9. I resolve not to eat poop.

10. I resolve to continue to help my fellow furry, feathered, slithery, slimy, and otherwise, friends stay happy and healthy. I will continue to send love and affection to all beasts, guiding us as we enjoy the best ear yet!

Pals, if you haven't put down your resolutions yet I encourage you to do so. Tend to your instincts, don't suppress them - but temper the self-destructive bits. You and your humans will be so much happier!

Love always, Buster

Photo Credit: tinyfroglet

Happy Birthday Capricorn!

Oh Capricorn, you are baaaaaaaaad! You love climbing like I love digging - a lawt. I've watched my ambitious Capricorn friends scale all kinds of walls and counter tops, to get to the treats that they want! Almost nothing stops you, Cap, when you aim high.

In fact, you're one of those critters for whom, when you want to get to something, instead of going through the door you bust it down (again, you tha rammer!). All that jumping and climbing means you need your energy - and lots of it! Like a car needs gas, your fuzzy tummy needs the best kind of food, packed with vital nutrients. Try Verve for dawgs or Prowl for kitties - it'll keep you bouncing!

And your grounded, earthy (and sometimes dirty) nature keeps you close to your roots - you loves your family (well who doesn't love the hands that feed?). Balance your explosive energy with lots of heavy petting. Come on, don't be sheepish (I know you're not!) - climb up a lap or two every day!

Love, Buster

Photo Credit: jono2k5