How to remove tick from a dog

As we head back to work and school, what will happen to our pets?

With many of us working and attending school from home, adoptions of cuddly kittens and waggish puppies has been a hot COVID-related trend.

According to the PetPoint, animal welfare organizations in the United States saw a spike in the second half of March 2020 from 58% in the beginning of the month to 85% in the second half.

Many pets will display a mild case of separation anxiety when you go back to work or just get out more than you have during the pandemic.

Some tips from the article to help your pet with the separation:

• Prep your pet that you’ll be leaving for a time.
• Turn on the music to let them know you’re coming back.
• Plenty of exercise.

Click here to learn more

This is a informative article but don’t forget that essential oils can calm and soothe your pet. A few days before you start going back to work apply or diffuse Lavender and Magnolia to help reduce pet anxiety.

Are there any essential oils safe for cats?

Why essential oils  be applied on cats with caution?

Are there any essential oils safe for cats? Well essential oils are not benign substances and must be respected and used with care. Quality, purity, and the dose of essential oil used are critical to safe use of essential oils in all species and especially, cats. Cats are very sensitive to additives. Poor quality essential oils which often contain harmful contaminants are more likely to overwhelm the ability of the cat’s liver thereby causing an accumulation of toxic byproducts and signs of toxicity. Signs of toxicity may include
incoordination, salivation, disorientation, and vomiting.

How to apply  essential oils safely to the cats?

When using essential oils with cats, we recommend beginning with milder oils and only turning to stronger oils if necessary. We recommend diluting essential oils for topical use, delivering their benefits via diffusion, or adding them to the litter box.

How cats react to essential oils?

Cats are a unique species and they differ from dogs and humans in the way they metabolize medications, fragrances and other chemicals. The liver is the primary site for metabolism. Essential oils whether applied topically, inhaled or ingested are absorbed into the bloodstream and processed by the liver. Once in the liver, enzymes convert substances to usable forms.

Cats do not possess a particular liver enzyme called UDP-glucuronosyltransferase. This is one enzyme responsible for breaking down medications, essential oils and other chemical ingredients.

Lacking this enzyme, cats are slower to metabolize certain chemical structures, which may result in higher blood levels and greater sensitivity. Cats are uniquely sensitive to monoterpene hydrocarbons, phenolics, and other compounds that contain benzene rings.

Veterinary Aromatherapy for Cats

This does not mean cats cannot benefit from essential oils.
Veterinary aromatherapy is not new. By the mid 1800s, scientific
studies in Germany and France regarding the medical effects
of essential oils on animals and humans were quite advanced.
Thanks to positive clinical results, the practice of veterinary
aromatherapy was not uncommon in these countries by the middle
of the 20th century.

 

This article is excerpted from the book Dr. Frezzo co-authored: SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.  To learn more about holistic pet care and Essential Oils, visit the SpOil Your Pet Website or call 201-288-7800.

How To Cure Seasonal Allergies in Pets – Video

In this video Dr. Mia Frezzo speaks about seasonal allergies in the pets that results in cold and cough, make our pets suffer a lot. There is one natural and very effective remedy created by doTERRA, which is actually a blend of lemon, lavender and peppermint  essential oils in a capsule, called doTERRA TriEase

 

To learn more about holistic pet care, essential oils or to join Dr. Frezzo’s team, please contact her at info@vetinheights.com or call 201-288-7800.

Dr. Frezzo is a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and the co-author of SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.

Enhancing the Lives of Our Pets

Dogs and cats age from six to 10 years for each human calendar year. We call this an accelerated life plan. For example, dogs and cats reach puberty by 4 to 7 months old and are considered geriatric over 7 years of age. Their lives move quickly, and for pet lovers, never long enough.

We can take certain steps to help pets live the longest, healthiest lives possible. A biannual physical exam and annual routine bloodwork, much like our own, is very important. Early detection as the best prevention holds true for pets, as well as humans.

Routine health care for pets also includes good nutrition, dietary and therapeutic supplements, adequate exercise, and medical-grade essential oils. Additionally, dental care and parasite control help to extend a pet’s life. Vaccinations prevent both sporadic and epidemic diseases. Using natural alternatives can reduce the use of medications wherever possible.

It’s common for an ailment or arthritic condition to be mistaken for aging—that an elderly pet is just slowing down, but this is often not the case. When a health problem is discovered and addressed, pets frequently demonstrate how well they feel. Veterinarians hear positive feedback from pet owners with pets that are rejuvenated after initiating a medical-grade essential oil treatment, performing dental cleanings, improving diet, reducing home chemicals, or instituting supplements and other therapies.

When a veterinarian hears, “He is running and jumping like a gazelle again. She’s like a puppy again, or My old cat is playing for the first time in years,” they feel fulfilled and happy for the families of their furry patients. With multimodal therapies and attentive veterinary care, owners can minimize a pet’s suffering and ensure that they live a long and happy life. Just like a good integrative physician, the goal an integrative veterinarian is to continually improve and extend the quality their patients’ lives.

Dr. Frezzo is a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and the co-author of SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.

You Are What You Eat

Nutrition is the foundation of good health.  Good nutrition optimizes the immune system, organ function and longevity.  Feed your pet a high quality diet in which the first ingredient is a protein such as chicken, beef, lamb, fish or soy and in which all of the ingredients are recognizable in comparison to a list of unpronounceable chemicals.  Beyond these basics, you may look for phrases such as human grade, no by-products and organic to indicate the degree of quality of the pet food. 

A recent surge of grain-free diets have arrived on the market.  Grain-free formulas are ideal for pets with known food allergies, particularly allergies to grains.  Some pets with digestive issues, skin sensitivities, or seasonal allergies may also benefit from a grain-free diet.  For most other pets, grain-free formulas are optional.  Some pets suffer protein allergies and will require a prescription diet.

An added benefit of a high quality pet food is evident in the yard or litter box.  A highly digestible diet (one without fillers) produces less fecal matter.  Although a high quality diet may cost more initially, most pets eat less since every bite is full of good, digestible nutrition.  Interestingly, most high quality pet foods are not advertised on television.  Choose a pet food which is not only affordable but is also convenient to obtain. 

What’s better, canned or dry pet food?  For dogs, I generally recommend dry formulas.  It may be helpful to moisten the food with warm water to facilitate digestion, especially in large breed dogs.  Cats, on the other hand, maintain their weight and protect their kidneys better with canned food.

Meal feeding or free choice (grazing)?  Offering your pet food at regular intervals will assist you in predicting when he or she needs to eliminate.    This is particularly helpful in housebreaking a puppy, since most pets will go to the bathroom about 15 minutes after each meal.   Many pets who have food available at all times tend to overeat.  Obesity is a becoming a pet epidemic in the United States and leads to a number of preventable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.

It is best to change your pet’s brand of food or formula gradually.  Pets’ digestive bacteria need time to acclimate and adjust to a new formula or brand.  They generally cannot tolerate different foods for each meal as we can.  So, gradually introduce a new food.   For example, a large dog who eats 1 cup of dry food per meal will convert to a new diet as follows.   Serve ¼ cup of the new food with ¾ cup of the existing diet for each meal for 3 days.  Then, give ½ cup of the new food and ½ cup of the “old” food for each meal for 3 days.  Then, give ¾ cup of the new food and ¼ cup of the old food for each meal for 3 days.  Finally, serve 1 cup of the new food for each meal.  This slow transition will help your pet avoid diarrhea and vomiting and ease him or her into the new food. 

Pets may continue to eat the same food for an extended period of time.  Although we need to eat a varied diet, high quality pet food is perfectly balanced for their needs.   Whichever high quality food you may choose, it’s important to  also make sure your pet gets adequate exercise and is well hydrated. 

Feeding your pet well can be confusing.  I hope that these guidelines are helpful as we all strive to give our pets the longest, healthiest lives possible.

For a list of high quality pet foods, click this link: http://vetinheights.com/pet-health/feeding-your-dog-or-cat/

Dr. Frezzo is a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and the co-author of SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.

How To Reduce Separation Anxiety In Pets – Video

 

To learn more about holistic pet care, essential oils or to join Dr. Frezzo’s team, please contact her at info@vetinheights.com or call 201-288-7800.

Dr. Frezzo is a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and the co-author of SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.

Próxima clase de aceites esenciales doTERRA en español

Aprenden de los aceites esenciales en espanol.
miercoles 12 de agosto a las 7:00 pm
Escuchen Online por Zoom.
Numero de la reunion: 975 7608 5497 Codigo: 671962

Managing your Pet’s Thunderstorm and Noise Phobias

Loud sounds can be distressing to our pets. Stormy weather such as thunderstorms, heavy rain and high winds, and noises coming from fireworks and construction equipment can be upsetting to our pets. At certain times of the year, during severe weather such as thunderstorms, or fireworks, anxious behavior can be a common occurrence. What used to be a single celebration for July fourth, has evolved into a week long display of parades and fireworks in various surrounding towns. While families and children may enjoy the festivities, our pets often do not.

Many dogs and cats are quite fearful of these loud noises. Some dogs are so nervous that they hide, shake, soil in the home and become destructive to themselves or their homes. Cats tend to hide and isolate themselves in fear. It is saddening to see our pets suffer this way.

Our pets sense our energy and emotions. So, our calm demeanor projects comfort to our pets. Reassure your pet, but not to the extent of coddling so as not to encourage fearful behavior. Be confident, relaxed and minimize the disturbances outside. Take the time before a holiday, like July fourth, to let your dog sniff and smell the outdoors. Walking dogs for exercise is, of course, always beneficial. But, sometimes letting them be still and sniff to their heart’s content is very calming and joyous for them. This can help to relax your dog.

Engage your cat in play time. Cats love to fetch, play with cat toys, chase a flashlight, and play find the treat.

Chewing can help your dog to expend energy. Get Kongs (made of hard rubber and designed for different chewing strengths) or bones, and stuff them with peanut butter, cream cheese, yogurt, raw food, or whatever your dog likes. Keep a number of stuffed Kongs or bones in the freezer, and give them to your dog during the fireworks to keep him or her busy.

Music is soothing to the savage beast. Canine music therapy can help provide balance. Classical music has been proven to calm dogs. I recommend “Through a Dogs Ear”, which has been created in what is called a passive hearing mode (rather than active listening). Passive hearing techniques facilitate relaxation. Honestly, it’s not only calming for the dogs (and cats, in many cases) but equally relaxing and enjoyable for people. Sound is a potent energy that is not to be taken for granted. It has profound effects on all species.

Essential oils can be soothing to both your pets and you. I suggest applying and diffusing essential oils hours prior to the onset of a storm or a few days prior to fireworks.

For mildly anxious dogs and cats, apply and diffuse Restful Blend or Lavender and Grounding blend. Moderately nervous pets may benefit from the addition of Frankincense and Copaiba or Vetiver. Some other suggestions include Reassuring Blend and Comforting Blend. Those dogs who are severely afflicted may benefit from oral preparations of Copaiba and Restful blend. In the most extreme cases, a prescription medication may be needed as well, although Dr. Frezzo tries to avoid medication if possible. Be prepared for the upcoming firework and thunderstorm season.

To learn more about holistic pet care, essential oils or to join Dr. Frezzo’s team, please contact her at info@vetinheights.com or call 201-288-7800.

Dr. Frezzo is a member of the doTERRA International Veterinary Advisory Board and the co-author of SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats.

Bacteria Proven to Help Anxiety in Pets

Did you know that 80% of pets’ immune systems reside in their digestive system?   New research shows that maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract not only supports good digestion and a strong immune system, but also reduces anxiety.   This finding is significant since so many of our pets may show signs of anxiety from time to time.  Some pets are anxious all of the time or quite frequently.   Anxiety may be demonstrated in our cats via hiding, vocalizing, refusing to eat well and avoiding the litter box.  Anxiety in dogs may be demonstrated by hiding, trembling, excessive barking, chewing, destructive behavior, pacing, circling, and loss of appetite.   Living with an anxious pet can also cause feelings of nervousness and worry by the family members and disrupt the household.  Physical measurements of anxiety include an increased heart rate and increased level of cortisol, a stress hormone.

Probiotics are the friendly bacteria in the gut, necessary for digestion of food but also to discourage infectious or pathogenic bacteria from taking over.   Pets with a depleted bacterial flora (population of digestive bacteria) are more likely to develop other diseases.  In other words, their immune systems become weakened, putting them at an increased risk of illness.

The amount of good digestive bacteria in our pets’ gastrointestinal tracts directly affects their mood.  This means that their physical well-being and emotional well-being are closely linked to the health of their digestive systems.  In a study of anxious Labrador Retrievers, 90 percent of those receiving a probiotic supplement showed a reduction in anxious behavior.  Following the administration of the probiotic for several weeks, their heart rates and blood cortisol levels reduced.   In a similar study, probiotics were shown to be as effective as antibiotics in treating stress colitis (diarrhea due to stress) in shelter dogs.

To support your pet’s immune system and gastrointestinal tract, offer your pet a high quality pet probiotic.  Pets’ digestive flora, or bacterial population, is different from ours.   So, it is best to seek a veterinary or pet product that is concentrated, potent and contains a variety of live bacteria.   The bacteria in the supplement must be viable (alive) and able to reproduce to be beneficial.  A good quality product will be formulated to withstand the highly acidic stomach.  Thus, the bacteria reach the intestines alive where they are most useful.

Dr. Frezzo’s patients are recommended to consume a high quality species-specific food ( cat food for cats, dog food for dogs, people food for people), a probiotic and an omega-3 supplement for optimal daily nutrition.   Additionally, her patients benefit from medical grade essential oils to further combat anxiety and support the immune system.

Sources:

• International Journal of Applied Research in Veterinary Medicine, Vol. 10, No. 3, 2012
• Probiotic Compared to Drug Therapy for Treatment of Acute Stress Colitis in an Adult Canine Shelter (pgs 57-58)were
• Proceedings. Nestle Purina Companion Animal Nutrition Summit, 2016:87-93

 

Mia Frezzo, DVM
Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights
doTERRA member of the International Veterinary Advisory Board

Easter Pet Safety

Chocolate

Chocolate contains an ingredient called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs and cats. The purer the chocolate, the more theobromine it tends to have. Make sure to keep all chocolate, including cocoa powder and hot chocolate, out of reach of your pet this Easter.

Flowers and Plants

There are many flowers and plants that are poisonous to cats and dogs, and many of them are common houseplants. Lilies, daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, bluebells and many, many more common plants can be harmful to our pets, especially if the bulb is ingested.

Easter Grass

Colorful grasses are often used to line Easter baskets for Easter egg hunts or decoration. These usually contain plastic materials, which can be harmful to pets if swallowed.

Spring Bulbs

All spring bulbs and often what grows out of them are poisonous to pets. Dogs are most likely to be affected as they can be curious when in the garden and root them up, especially when freshly planted in autumn or coming into flower in spring.

Human Sweets

Don’t feed your pet any human sweets or sweet treats, especially those that say they are sugar free as they may contain xylitol, which is a synthetic sweetener which is toxic to cats and dogs.

Plastic Eggs

If ingested, plastic egg pieces can cause choking, GI irritation, or intestinal blockage.

Beat the Bugs this Summer with TerraShield®

Each Summer my entire family gets together to go camping. Despite all the long-sleeves and layers, We come home riddled with bug bites! This year I made sure to pack doTERRA TerraShield spray to protect my husband and me while we sit by the fire each night. I personally love the doTERRA TerraShield spray for its blend of Vanilla Bean Absolute instead of the regular insect repellant that smells of synthetic alcohol.

“Whether you’re a hiker, biker, camper, or outdoor enthusiast of any kind, you will love the convenience and protection that the newly formulated doTERRA TerraShield Spray provides. You can keep it in backpacks, purses, and vehicles to ensure bug bite prevention on the go. It is easy enough for the whole family to apply and is safe on your little ones! Help your kids take advantage of their summer outdoor activities by keeping them protected from insects.”

Read the Product Spotlight for doTERRA TerraShield here: https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/spotlight-terrashield-outdoor-blend