Does Your Dog Need a Pet Vitamin Supplement?
by Geraldine Dimarco

Being healthy is something that everyone on this planet tries to achieve. We may not actually participate in everything that we should do in order to keep our bodies healthy, but we at least think about staying healthy. How could we not with all the media that is constantly surrounding us about getting and staying healthy?

However, do we ever stop to think about the one "person" that loves us unconditionally and their health? Our pets give us so much including being a huge stress reliever, that we sometimes overlook keeping them healthy. One thing that we can do everyday for our animals is to give them a pet vitamin supplement.

Did you know that dog vitamins will help your dog live a longer and healthier life? By giving them a good pet vitamin supplement you are helping to ensure that their immune system is running at its fullest potential. Just as with humans, our pets need supplements to keep up with the daily grind of life.

With the recent pet food scare coming out of China, our dogs need dog vitamins now more than ever. Even if you are even giving Fido a top quality dog food, he will still need supplements to stay at the top of his game. Many types of vitamins exist, including melatonin for dogs, and understanding which constitutes a good vitamin for your four legged friend can make all the difference in their health.

Where you dog are at in their life will determine the type of vitamins for dogs that you give to your dog. Take an active puppy for instance they will require specific vitamins to help them get the best start in their lives. A type of Omega-3 fatty acid should be included in the vitamin to keep the heart healthy.

A supplement for the older dogs is popular as well. Glucosamine for joint health and movement is included in many of the dog vitamins made specifically for senior dogs. You can find vitamins that are specifically designed for the overall health of an adult dog in the prime of his life - these are intended to keep the animal at their best and in the best possible health.

You should always find ways to keep your dog healthy no matter where they are in their life. What type of food you are buying them and what is actually in it should be of a concern to you. You should never buy a dog food just because it is on sale at the grocery store.

On the other hand, changing your dog's diet suddenly could lead to them having an upset stomach and other issues. It is important to remember that a dogs body is just as delicate as ours are. Every advantage that we give ourselves should be given to our dogs, including giving them a pet vitamin supplement to keep them strong and healthy. We want our pets to continue growing with us. When we think of staying healthy we have to keep them in mind for this task to be achieved.

Kidney failure in dogs is a common and serious condition that can affect many dogs. It is probably one of the leading causes of death in older dogs. There are two forms in which kidney failure can manifest itself, acute or chronic. The acute form can happen quickly and suddenly, while the chronic form begins slowly and progresses over time. Sadly for the dog owner, news of either form of kidney failure is upsetting.

Kidney failure causes a loss of approximately seventy percent of normal kidney function and it is these organs that act as the body's filtration system. If the kidneys do not work properly, toxins and waste products slowly build up in the blood. This can lead to a variety of problems, and sadly, eventual death. This unfortunately is the harsh reality of canine renal failure.

Dog kidney failure stops the ability of your dog's body to function properly. Toxins begin to build up in his body, and once this starts, a number of symptoms and warning signs will more than likely become apparent. Each form of kidney failure shows different symptoms - with the acute form your dog will possibly have become dehydrated. To test for hydration, gently pull on the skin of your dog's stomach. This should spring back. If it does not, there may be a possibility that your dog is dehydrated.

You may have noticed your dog not wanting to pass urine, or there may be no urine production at all. This is also is a warning sign that your pet may be a victim of acute canine kidney failure. Kidney problems in dogs can lead to your dog having extremely painful kidneys, and you may notice your dog moving with stiff legs or an arched back. These symptoms are signs for any dog owner to watch out for.

Chronic kidney disease in dogs shows different symptoms. They may well have a change of appetite with no desire to eat where normally they would happily gulp down their food. They may perhaps go off their food altogether. This will, over time, lead to weight loss. The first warning signs which highlight the start of the disease are increased thirst and water consumption. These are frequent signs of kidney failure in dogs. Sadly the dog may lose control of its bladder with frequent increased urination occurring. As time goes on urination will become painful, in some cases impossible and blood may appear in the urine.

Canine kidney disease is serious, and can be deadly, so if there are any signs of urine symptoms, vomiting, lethargy or depression in your pet, treat this as a warning sign and alert your vet straight away. If caught quickly it may be possible to gain control over the disease.

If your veterinarian suspects dog kidney failure, he will normally follow four steps to determine if the dog has kidney failure or not.

First, he will conduct a thorough physical examination. Secondly he will ask you about your dog's relevant history, including symptoms and behavior at home.

After completing the examination and history taking, your vet will conduct two further steps - a blood test and urinary test. Both of these are necessary as to conduct one without the other will give a less certain diagnosis. Both of these tests will confirm whether your dog has the acute form of canine renal failure, or chronic canine kidney disease.

If so, make sure you have sufficient knowledge to discuss ALL options with your vet.

Your dog’s body is full of intricate inner workings that enable the body to heal itself from within, given the correct nutrients and care. Pharmaceutical drugs in the long run add more toxins to the body that can debilitate the body even more, further compromising the healing process. Pharmaceutical drugs may help your dog live a short time longer, but for many dog owners that’s just not enough.

Pure drinking water, plant based vitamins and minerals, specific herbs to cleanse the blood, strengthen the immune system and repair the liver, hydrotherapy, and exercise can all play a part in repairing your dog's kidneys naturally.

You should always consult your vet before embarking on a natural treatment program, but there are natural means of reversing kidney failure in your dog that have been known to produce results even when a veterinarian has recommended euthanasia as the only option.

For more information on natural treatments for kidney failure in dogs, click here.

Many types of dog travel carriers are good for many different modes of travel. You will find some of the carriers for small dogs offer more ventilation. There are dog travel carriers for airplane travel, train travel, car and boat travel. You need sturdy dog carriers when traveling on public transportation.

In the car, you might need something to keep the dog calm and safe, so choose a dog travel carrier that will be comfortable to your pet. Some dog carriers for cars are designed for long periods of the dog being in the carrier. There are many carriers for pets that look very fashionable. Smaller dogs seem to have more to choose from where style is concerned. Some of the styles are the tote carrier, purse carrier, over the shoulder carrier and the carriers for larger animals.

The totes for small pets have different styles. There is the carrier with one, two or three viewing panels. These stylish dog travel carriers are for smaller dogs, but an individual can determine the size he or she will need. The carriers are made of durable materials and will hold up to twenty-two pounds in most situations. They come in different colors and have different looks. They also come with outside pockets for carrying along any necessary dog supplies. Airplane carriers for dogs in many situations have a rating for airplane travel and are approved by the airlines as a pet carrier.

There are dog travel carriers that are on wheels. These resemble the baggage totes on wheels and have panel openings for the pet to see out. This is sometimes easier on the dog if they can see where they are going. These carriers are great for airplane travel if the animal is traveling on the plane and not in the cargo area. In the cargo area, the carriers have to be made a certain way and a certain size for every dog. The other type of puppy carrier is the purse.

You may see many people walking down the street with a purse and a little head popping out. These are cute ways to tote around the little and other smaller dogs. Dog travel carriers are made for the dog to be comfortable and allow people to take his or her dogs to places that they otherwise could not. You will find some dog travel carriers in a wide range of colors too. You will find that they are just right for the type of dog you have.

Dog carriers can be found in many pet shops, pet boutiques and online at many pet web sites. You can find just about any type of dog carrier to make your dog’s travels comfortable. If you are looking for a dog travel carrier for using at home, many of the carriers are comfortable and have room for sleeping and a few toys if needed. These also have dishes for water and food. These are usually used for housebreaking, or essentially when you must leave the home for a while.

Small Dog Breeds

Small dog breeds are hugely popular with many people because of their size.  If you live in a small house, apartment or flat a smaller dog is easier to keep.  When choosing a puppy from the small dog breed there are many different breeds to choose from, all with their own characteristics.  Here are a few of the different breeds.

The Bichon Frise is well known of the small dog breed for their beautiful white puffball coat.  These little dogs are very affectionate and make a great family pet that get along with children, adults and other pets.  They are a highly affectionate little dog and don’t like being left on their own for to long.  The Bichon Frise is a great little indoor dog requiring minimal exercise, a few little daily walks should be sufficient.  Grooming is necessary to keep the beautiful pure white coat from matting.  The breeds are unsuitable as guard dogs or to live outside.

The Border terrier, or affectionately known as BT is a cute spunky little terrier with a coarse, wiry double coat.  He is an extremely intelligent little dog with dark lively eyes, short muzzle, black nose and small ears.  Border terriers are very alert, active and agile dogs, probably because these dogs were bred to hunt, and squeeze themselves down little holes.  They can soon run across course terrain at a high speed.

The Boston terrier is known for having a sunny disposition, a native American breed.  This dog loves to go for walks; they are a compact well muscled little dog great house pets and companions.  In America this is one of the most popular breeds who has rightfully been given the name of the American Gentleman, and has a fantastic affectionate nature.  These dogs may only be small but they’ll soon let you no if someone is at the door. 

Cairn Terriers are hardy active dogs; they are free in movement, strong, but not heavily built.  They are great little house dogs and very good with children, very energetic and alert.  You will hear them barking if any strangers are near the home, great house dogs.  They differ to other terrier breeds; the head is shorter and wider with masses of hair giving a foxy expression still a cute dog, always ready for a walk.

Of all the small dog breeds that resembles lady out of the Disney classic (Lady and the Tramp), has to be the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This breed is known for its beautiful eyes and long fluffy ears.  It has a flat skull with the muzzle conical in shape, they may only be small dogs but they have a solid muscular body.  There are four colors to this breed, Blenhiem, Ruby, Black and Tan and lastly the Tri-color.  They will be fine living in an apartment or flat providing they are given sufficient walks.

The Chinese Crested breed makes an excellent family dog and is very intelligent.  They are not prone to outbursts of energy like some breeds; the hairless variety can often be the cause of conversation with a total stranger asking about the breed.  There are hairless breeds that have hair on its head, tail and feet.  They have a wide skull, long muzzle, dark eyes and large ears, their body size ranges between small to medium.  Powder puff breed has a long coat.         

The Best Dog Health Diagnosis Is From Your Vet

Your dog is more than your pet. He is your best friend, companion, and protector. When he is not feeling well, the last thing you want to do is worry that there is something seriously wrong. Therefore, off you go to the veterinarian for a dog health diagnosis.

This really should be done on a regular basis (annually is highly recommended) instead of waiting until your dog is actually sick. Your veterinarian can help you to know which things to look for if you suspect that your dog is ill. On basic trips to the vet, your dog should have several things done to keep him healthy to start with.

Vaccinations are controversial. Several diseases are the culprits behind many dog deaths, but whether vaccinations are required in adult dogs is greatly in dispute. Your dog may be required by law to have his rabies shots, but other vaccines are not usually a requirement (except by a large proportion of boarding kennels).

Keeping your dog free from fleas is important to his health. Similarly other parasites such as worms of the various types, including heart worm.

Older dogs can have asthma or even a form of Alzheimer’s which is best treated by your vet. The importance of having regular check-ups for your faithful friend cannot be stressed enough, particularly if he has already been diagnosed with some type of health problem. But that said, don't overlook the possibility of treating many of these dog health diagnoses with natural remedies. Always discuss with your vet, but by the same token, don't go to a vet who doesn't have an open mind to alternative treatments.

Many times dogs can get the same types of illnesses people get. From a common cold to full-fledged fevers, even cancer. So one of the most important things that you can do to make sure your pet is in the best health he can be is to have regular check-ups.

When you keep your pet in the best health he can be by getting check-ups on a regular basis, he will be much happier and so will you. Having a dog that mopes or acts like he does not feel well is worrisome. Just like a child who is too young to tell you what is bothering him/her, when your dog does not feel well, he cannot tell you his stomach hurts or his head hurts.

He is relying on you to make sure he is healthy the same as he depends on you for being fed, walked, bathed, and loved. There are many things you can do to keep your friend feeling great and preventing serious illness. Your vet may recommend natural remedies to keep your dog in top health.

Making sure his diet is one that is recommended for his age and his particular needs can make the difference between having an energetic, healthy pet and one that does not feel like playing or leaving his bed. You should avoid commercial brands of dog food that have high concentrates of sugar and preservatives. Exercise cannot be stressed enough, and look at it this way. It is as healthy for you as it is for your dog.

A dog health diagnosis is the way to make sure there are no problems, even if they are little ones that could turn into something more serious later. After all, if you find out a few things about how to keep your dog healthy and happy, he will be around for a long time to be a faithful companion to you. He will love you unconditionally, greet you when you come home, and best of all, he will always be your friend.

Have Blast With Your Dog By Enrolling Into Dog Agility Training

If you are looking for an activity that your dog will enjoy, while learning something constructive at the same time, then consider enrolling your family dog into agility training classes. Dog agility training is also very satisfying for the owners themselves, as we get to watch our lovable canines run through obstacles, balance their way around agility props, and participate in team events.

What To Expect From Dog Agility Training

Dog agility training will not only have your pet becoming physically healthier, but also sharpening his mental skills by learning to negotiate many obstacles that include tunnel walks, A-frames, teeters, tires, the classic table and closed chute, measured jumps, weave poles, and standard dog walks.

Once your dog has learned these obstacles to a suitable level (as per the instructor's requirements), the handler will then move the learning process up to team-negotiating. This is where your dog will have a chance to enjoy agility trials, in which a judge will present several courses for your dog to take part in. The handlers will take a personal tour through the course ahead of time, while strategically planning how they will manage their dogs through the trial successfully.

What Are The Requirements To Enroll Your Dog Into Dog Agility Training?

Dog agility training is an amazing way for your pet to become an avid sports dog, no matter what size and shape he may be. Entering agility competitions is not necessary, nor is it a requirement, but many families just enjoy watching their dogs receive these advanced training sessions.

Standard requirements for dog agility training may vary slightly from school to school, however, it is very common that the enrollment only accepts dogs from the age of approximately 8 months and older. If your dog is smaller in size, or a miniature breed, then be sure to ask the dog agility training school if they offer separate classes for small dogs only. Most reputable agility training centers will offer both small dog classes in addition to an all-size class.

Agility Training Class Levels

Dog agility training schools will typically have several skill levels. Newcomers to agility work will start at the basic, introduction class. During this period your dog will be introduced to the agility equipment, as mentioned previously, which will include tunnels, weave poles, jumps, chutes, and tires.

The next level up from the  beginner dog training agility class will generally be the intermediate class. Only dogs that have successfully been acquainted with the equipment from the beginner lessons will be allowed to enroll here. The animals will learn how to work the courses, practice sequencing the various obstacles, and become accustomed to the handlers, all before entering dog agility training competitions (should you have the desire to see your dog compete).

Holistic dog health care is becoming a natural way for pet owners to ensure that their cherished pets are at their healthiest, living long, happy lives to the absolute fullest.

Nutritional needs are perhaps the most important aspect to consider when it comes to a dog's health, as theirs are somewhat different from ours and will require a certain balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to ensure everything from the digestive systems to the bones, joints, and organs as well as the skin and coat are as healthy as possible. A diet of meat, vegetables, and whole grains without any processed foods or unnecessary fillers is usually recommended when following the holistic approach to dog care.

Your Dog's Health and Herbal Remedies

Using a combination of various essential oils, flowering essences, plant extracts, and certain herbs, people have been treating a host of ailments and health conditions for the last few thousand years. As of recently, these ancient healing practices have found their way into pet care and are now becoming increasingly popular as more and more dog owners are looking for safer, healthier, and less invasive alternatives to treating their pets.

Some of the plant life that's used for treating dogs include both calendula and chamomile for promoting the healing of wounds, and the latter is often used for the treatment of respiratory ailments as well. For dogs suffering from constipation or bowel disorders, crushed flaxseed mixed with plenty of water may do the trick. For dry, itchy skin, oats are as soothing to a dog's skin as they are to a human's, and if your pup is having trouble sleeping, smelling some lavender may help them to relax and finally fall soundly asleep.

Before concocting any type of herbal remedies of your own, make it a point to do plenty of research and be absolutely certain that what you're giving your dog isn't toxic or harmful in any way, as not all herbs and flowers are safe for pets, or even people for that matter. Also, ask your veterinarian for their input and recommendations when it comes to holistic dog health and using all-natural remedies for their care.  (Don't necessarily expect your conventionally trained vet to be in favor of natural remedies, however).

Holistic Veterinary Care

Today there are an increasing number of veterinarians who are putting great stock in holistic dog health, making it a large part of their practice. A veterinarian who practices holistic pet care treats animals as a whole, rather than identifying a certain problem and prescribing one type of treatment related to that specific injury or illness.

For instance, if your dog has suddenly come down with some sort of rash on his skin causing irritation, redness, itching, a possible infection, and some fur loss, a "regular" vet would probably prescribe an antibiotic to treat the skin infection and then perhaps a topical ointment to address the itching.

A holistic veterinarian may also prescribe those two remedies, but there will be more emphasis on finding out what could have caused the rash to occur in the first place, which, of course, was the root of the infection. With holistic care, the dog's indoor and outdoor environment, his daily lifestyle, eating habits and nutritional intake are all taken into consideration before attempting to diagnose or treat the animal.

In light of growing concerns over pet food recalls, questions about whether or not to vaccinate, or how many immunizations may be "too much," or if we're overmedicating our pets as well as ourselves as a society, dog owners continue to search for effective ways for keeping their beloved best friends as healthy and happy for as long as possible.

And the great thing is that the more holistic your approach to the care and health of your dog, the less you'll actually need expensive veterinary treatment - because your dog will always be in great health!

If you're interested in holistic dog health and saving on vet bills, the Vet Secrets Home Study Course is invaluable.  It's a course compiled by a holistic veterinarian to assist pet owners to keep their pets healthy naturally!

Knowing about Pug Dog Health can keep your Pug Happy and Healthy

If you are a dog lover you probably know that all dogs have certain dog health problems that need to be looked out for, especially when a dog gets into its older years. If you know the specific risks for the type of dog you own you will know what to look for and how to got about taking care of the problem if it should come up. Understanding pug dog health risks can actually save the life of your best friend.

Here are some pug dog health problems that you should look out for if you own or are considering purchasing a pug.

One: Hip Dysplasia.  This is actually a common problem among many dogs including golden labs. This occurs when there is some malformation of the hip joint and the femur bone does not fit correctly. This can cause the dog a lot of pain and in severe cases the dog may need surgery or have to be put down. Mild cases are easier to deal with, they mainly need a good diet and exercise routine.

Two:  Stenotic Nares. This is when the nostrils of the pug are narrow or otherwise constricted. This problem can put strain on the body making the dog have an enlarged heart. Signs of this condition include mouth breathing and nasal discharge that is foamy. The condition can be corrected with surgery.

Three: Entropion, this is a condition where the eyelids can roll inward causing the eye lashes to rub against the eye. This is a serious problem as it can cause ulcerations, scratches and irritation of the eye. Noticing the problem and taking care of it can be very critical to your pug's health and well being. The condition can be corrected by surgery, which is the most common form of treatment.

Four: Dry Eyes. Just like with humans, a dog can have a problem producing enough tears to keep their eyes nice and lubricated. There are a few things that can cause the tear ducts not to produce enough tears, blockage of the duct, failure of the tear ducts or lack of nerve stimulation to the tear ducts. Treatment is dependent upon how severe the condition is.

Five: Demodectic skin mites. This is a common problem among many dogs and comes in two forms. The first form, localized demodectic mange, appears as small hairless patches of skin that looks health. This form is seen in dogs under one year of age. The second form is generalized demodectic mange, which appears in one large patch of hairless healthy looking skin and can appear in a dog of any age.

There are many more health conditions that you should look out for if you own or intend to own a pug. If you suspect that your dog has any of the problems listed above or problems that may not be listed make an appointment with your vet and have your dog evaluated. The problem could be very serious, especially if left untreated.

Gillian Alsop, from Coventry, Warwickshire, in the United Kingdom, is one of my readers.

For many years Gillian had worked with dogs, until she realized that there were many feral cats in dire straits, so for the last 8 years Gillian's life has been dedicated to them - feeding, coaxing, and taming them to be rehomed.

This is Gillian's story in relation to one of those cats, a border collie puppy, and a wexie cross staffie puppy that Gilian adopted as well, and the effect those animals had on each other and on Gillian's family:

"My last feral Tomcat was a challenge indeed. He was the Alpha male of a small colony…un-neutured…excessively big…and by far the most aggressive Tom it has ever been my pleasure to meet.

Having taken in two myself previously,I knew he would be the third. The fiery eyes held many a threat, and after 7 weeks of trying to reverse his misfortune, I was no nearer to bringing him in, but I could see something beyond the hatred, and so I carried on. I took a week's leave…thinking the Tom would be fine, but upon my return, I found the Tom in distress. His coat was matted…his ear torn, and he'd shed many a pound, although the fire still burned brightly in his eyes. His last defiance was to snarl quietly, as I scooped him into my arms and took him home. But for many months he remained aloof…making no commitment, frightening everyone with those "evil eyes". I named him Storm.

On February 14th, our daughter presented us with a 7 week old border collie pup, much to our dismay. The pup was weak, very frightened, and ran from the slightest sound. Our concern was for her safety…having brought in the Tom only a few months previously. We knew not whether he had any encounter with dogs, but we agreed to keep the pup for a few days. Getting her to eat was nightmare, and we eventually ended up spoon-feeding her with Sherley's Lactol…just to keep her alive. She would not touch anything that we produced…from tin, packet or dried, and we had resigned ourselves to her inevitable passing.

For three nights she cried for her mum, and on the fourth night, at 2:15am….the crying stopped.

With a heavy heart, I crept downstairs, and approached her basket. It was a sight I knew I would never see again. The Tom's body enveloped the sleeping pup, and both were in the land of dreams. Storm had made his first real commitment….to a dying pup! The following morning, as I opened the back door, Storm proudly entered with a token he was to bestow on Skye (so-named because of her china blue eys).

She scrambled out of the basket and pawed the large offering (a newly dispatched rat) but found it not to her liking. The unlucky animal was banished to the garden, but several minutes later, Storm returned. He proceeded to relinquish most of his breakfast onto the kitchen floor. Seconds later, the pup having picked up the scent, proceeded to demolish it, and was ready for more!! Felix catfood was to become her favorite food.

The bond that developed between them, was wonderful to watch, and from that day Skye never looked back. The Tom taught her many things, and protected her from harm, being by her side from dawn till dusk, but another bond was developing, which was even more amazing.

When Skye was 5 months old, my husband was diagnosed with acute Emphysema, and life was now a burden to him. Skye seemed to sense this and would sit beside him for hours, with her head in his lap. One evening, feeling rather unwell with migraine, my husband declared that he would supervise Skye's last walk of the night. They were away for several hours and I began to worry. I was waiting with growing concern until they arrived home and declared what a wonderful walk it had been.

As Skye grew, they enjoyed many more wonderful walks and she gave my husband back his life.

But at 10mths, Skye's life was to change dramatically. Storm collapsed on the bedroom floor and we rushed him to the veterinary surgery. Sadly, Storm died in my arms 20 minutes later….he had suffered a massive heart-attack. The vet informed me that Storm was at least 14 years old.

Our household mourned that night for a cat who had given us so much joy, but none more than Skye. For hours she paced the floor…waiting…hoping that he would appear in the doorway. Although we tried to console her, her grief was immense, and she remained depressed, alone,and refused to eat. This went on for 10 days, and Skye's depression was getting worse.

One morning, my husband threw Skye's favorite ball across the living room floor. She took a dive at it, and within minutes she was gasping for breath. The ball had lodged itself in her windpipe. Luckily, the ball contained a bell, placed there with a direct tiny hole that went through each side. As we tried desperatly to remove the ball, it moved direction, but still remained firmly lodged. I knew there was a chance that she would not make it to the vet, as it was the school run traffic and the vet's surgery was 4 miles away.

Grabbing my mobile phone in one hand, and with the help of our granddaughter rushing Skye to the car, I phoned the surgery. Immediately they were on standby, and my husband drove like a madman…through traffic lights and over kerbs, all the time knowing that every minute counted. By the time Skye arrived, both her tongue and gums were a bright blue, and her eyes glazed. I knew Skye was only seconds from death.

We waited what seemed like an eternity, until we were ushered into the surgery. It seemed that three things had saved Skye's life. The ball had turned to allow a little air through the hole, my husband,s driving skills, and the fact that she was a very healthy dog, but of course we know that the veterinarian's skill of removing the ball within a 45 second time gap, before her heart stopped for good, had made all the difference.

Skye has recovered, although it has left her with epilepsy, and went on to save the life of a 4 week old pup, who lost his mum. With her tender loving care, he is now a year old and a happy healthy dog (a Westie cross Staffie) who dotes on her. They are a team, and it is like having one dog.

So you see, we owe Skye a lot. She gives us her complete trust, her unconditional love, and above all knowing that she would defend us with her life. Although they are both terribly spoiled, it is little in return for the love they bestow on us.

Just for the record…we named the new pup Storm!"

Gillian has written a novel based on her experiences with looking after these and other animals, called "The Ninth Life".

If you've been reading my dog newsletter for long, or visiting my websites here or at www.HealthyHappyDogs.com very often, you'll know that I'm dead against the dreaded annual vaccinations for our adult dogs.

Well, Dr Larry Siegler is of like mind. Vaccinations can and do cause serious health problems in our pets. They're not only unnecessary, they're positively harmful. And the tragic thing is that any vet worth his or her salt would agree that they're unnecessary.

So why do the majority of pet owners continue to vaccinate their pets?

Dr Siegler suggests it's because vets don't want to lose the income from giving the annual vaccinations. I like to think that most vets do have our dogs' wellbeing at heart, and that the reason for hauling you in each and every year for these unnecessary and harmful booster shots isn't purely profit.

It IS important to have your dog checked out annually to make sure s/h e is generally healthy and that there is no health problem which you haven't noticed, which your vet will pick up. While I think it's a misguided method, I like to think that many vets get you in on the pretext of required vaccinations, to make sure that your dog is in good health.

But whatever the reason, I strongly recommend that you think twice before following your vet's advice to vaccinate annually.

Here's the article

The Truth About Pet Vaccinations

by Dr. Larry Siegler

Most guardians have never been told the truth about vaccinations. On the contrary, you are likely to get annual notices from your veterinarian that your companion is “due for their annual booster shots”. The evidence against vaccinating, however, is overwhelming. Most veterinarians just choose to ignore the research because they don’t want to lose the income from giving booster shots to all those animals each year.Vaccinations represent a major stress to the immune system. They can not only cause side-effects and allergic reactions, they also contribute significantly to long term chronic disease. Chronic health problems frequently appear following vaccination including skin allergies, arthritis, leukemia, upper respiratory infections, irritable bowel syndromes, neurological conditions including aggressive behavior and epilepsy, auto-immune diseases and cancer.

I have been practicing veterinary medicine for over 20 years and I see sicker animals at a younger age now than when I began. It is more and more common to see cancer in dogs and cats under 5 years of age. Autoimmune diseases are on the rise as well. Our companions are suffering from generations of over-vaccination, which combined with inadequate nutrition, poor breeding practices and environmental stresses are leaving each generation more susceptible to congenital disorders and chronic disease.

Vaccinations do help prevent serious illnesses, but they should be used with restraint. Before vaccinating, consider the risk. If your cat is indoor only and will never be exposed to unvaccinated animals, the risk of infection is low. The decision about vaccinations is very individual and should be guided by your own research on the subject before you go to the veterinarian.

Puppies and kittens should not be vaccinated until at least 12 weeks of age. Their developing immune systems are especially vulnerable to the stress of vaccines. Request individual vaccines and vaccinate at least three weeks apart if possible. Until 12 weeks of age keep your companion safe by avoiding exposure to public areas such as parks and pet stores. Keep them close to home and only expose them to animals you know are healthy. For puppies consider parvovirus and distemper at 12-15 weeks, and not until after 6 months of age for rabies. For kittens - consider one Panleukopenia combination (FRCP). Again, if available, give the vaccine components separately spaced three to four weeks apart. Feline leukemia and FIP vaccines may not be necessary for your cat. Consider its lifestyle and environment. IF your cats go outside and you have rabies in your area, give a rabies vaccine at six months of age. (Legal requirements vary from state to state.)

Vaccinations do not need “boosting”. Studies have shown that a single vaccination for parvovirus, distemper and panleukopenia results in long-term protection from disease. Simple blood tests can determine if your companion’s antibody levels for parvovirus and distemper remain high enough to resist infection. Next time your veterinarian suggests a booster shot, request the blood test first. (Rabies may be required by law every three years. Check the regulations in your state.)

I do not recommend vaccinations for Bordetella, corona virus, leptospirosis or Lyme vaccines unless these diseases are endemic locally or at a specific kennel. The currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis today, so it is generally not a useful vaccine.

Homeopathic Nosodes are an alternative some guardians are using when choosing not to vaccinate. They can also be used before three months of age if an animal is at risk. Many guardians use these homeopathic medicines to help protect their companions against Parvovirus, Distemper, Kennel Cough, Panleukopenia and FIP. Some nosodes seem to work more effectively than others. Homeopathic nosodes are not vaccinations. They do not produce titers against these diseases like a vaccination. They do seem to offer some protection by reducing the severity of illness if the animal is exposed, even if they don't prevent it.

Never vaccinate a sick or weakened animal. If your puppy or kitten is showing signs of allergies or skin problems, WAIT. Vaccinating an already compromised immune system is almost sure to compound the problem!

Educate yourself. Your veterinarian cannot make this decision for you, nor should they. You are your companion’s guardian. It is your responsibility to give them the best care you can by researching and carefully weighing your decisions about their healthcare.