The goal of a "wellness program" is to keep our pets healthy for their whole life, maximize the animal’s comfort and utility, and extend the animal’s life expectancy. However, health is more than the absence of clinical disease. Health is started by planning a good genetic background. That is the breeder's responsibility. A well bred animal results in limitation of any predisposition to chronic disease problems. Health is then optimized by the human caretakers of the pet, starting at the time the pup is whelped. A holistic, healthy, clean environment is not only visibly clean, but free of harmful toxins and chemical agents, i.e. a home where daily exercise and human interaction occur, and where pure water, air and whole foods and nutrients are available in the correct proportions for the specific type of pet. A holistic home is where the proper nutrients are available, where stress is minimized, and where loving care and training is abundant. These are the things that foster a healthy lifestyle for your pet. Proper nutrition is paramount to good health and results in a strong immune system which will support the body in its continuous battle to ward off bacterial and viral invasions. However, many nutrients required for optimum health cannot be purchased in a bag or can and may not be available in the grocery store or at Wal-Mart. If you want the best for the dog, expect to pay a fair price for it. You'll get what you pay for.
The following are KEYS in establishing a pet's wellness program:
1. DIET. The average commercial foods contain the incorrect ratio of fat and protein, low quality proteins such as soy and corn which are not well digested by pets, the wrong types and amounts of fiber, no enzymes, dangerous chemical preservatives, synthetic vitamins, lack of friendly, beneficial bacteria (probiotics), minerals and antioxidants, too much sugar and salt, cheap fillers, second class ingredients and animal by-products from the human food processing system, fragmented vegetable and grain (flour) matter and even diseased, dying or contaminated animals. A proper holistic wellness program begins with a premium food with no corn, no wheat and no soy since corn and wheat gluten often cause allergic responses in animals and soy is not bio-available to dogs and cats. A high quality commercial food can be obtained from distributors or directly purchased from the manufacturers (See our recommended list. For further information on brand ingredients for many foods on the market, see our web site link to Earl Wolfe's comparison of ingredients). We also recommend following a bonafide raw food plan, either of a published “time tested” formula such as the BARF diet or a pre-packaged brand (See our recommended list) as long as careful calcium-phosphorus ratios are followed and the proper ratios of enzymes, minerals, vitamins, oils and antioxidants are added. Perhaps the best for convenience is the use of a combination diet: Part premium dry food plus raw meats and bones added several times per week, or even daily. Substitution of some rolled natural freeze dried foods can be used in lieu of raw meat, bone and vegetables as long as the salt and nitrate content is low.
2. SUPPLEMENTATION. Organic dietary or primary yeast (not brewer's yeast), cold-pressed fatty acids with Omega 3 and 6, fish oils such as salmon, menhaden and cod supply EPA, sea vegetables such as kelp, quality whole herbal based vitamin and mineral supplements, probiotics (beneficial acidophilus and bifidophilus bacteria) should be selectively added to a holistic dietary plan, based on the specific needs of the animal. Remember, each pup is an individual and has individual dietary requirements (See the attached recommended list). Another misconception about canine and feline diets is equating the fat content of foods with human dieting. Animals require more fat than people.
3. VACCINATIONS. The puppy's immune system was boosted at whelping by the colostrum from the mother. Our practice is to assist the mother in transferring immunity by giving her and the pups beneficial bacteria as soon as the first milking is completed. The first immunization against parvovirus and distemper is administered after weening. We strongly recommend separating immunizations into single shots and only recommend parvovirus and distemper two additional times plus rabies per your local legal requirements. Each shot needs to be separated by at least 2-3 weeks to allow the immune system to recover from the last shot. "Shotgun" vaccinations have been proven to cause the immune systems of pups and kittens to be overwhelmed, which can cause epilepsy, toxic shock reactions, HOD and even sudden death (symptoms similar to "crib death" in humans). We especially avoid leptospirosis vaccines because of their highly antigenic nature and frequent side effect reactions. The rest of the routine vaccines normally recommended are not necessary, especially if #1 and #2 above are religiously followed (or in the case of pets who react to everything allergically, do not use vaccines at all, use homeopathic nosodes only). After a series of three puppy shots and an initial rabies vaccine, annual boosters are not indicated unless a blood titer is drawn proving a low immunity exists. Vaccinations for "kennel cough" are virtually useless, since this viral disease is little more that equivalent to the human cold and the shot frequently causes the disease to occur. Canine diseases other than parvo, distemper and rabies are not life threatening and only rabies is required by law (since it alone is a hazard to humans if transferred by a rabid animal). Again, refer to #1 and #2 above. Keep your dog healthy with good nutrition and the practice of life long vaccinations is an unnecessary and unwarranted invasion of the animal's immune system that could actually hurt them instead of immunize them. Remember—titer, then decide if immunization is indicated. And NEVER immunize an animal that is not in perfect health. Immunizations administered during an illness could be fatal to the animal.
4. PARASITES and PESTS. Your puppy is normally dewormed at weening. However, only a fecal sample during a vet visit, will ensure deworming is complete. In the interim between first parvo shot and second shot, it is unwise to allow a pup to walk around on any other property except your own yard until the first vet visit, second shot and fecal sample are complete. Repeat a fecal sample every 6-12 months and whenever any digestive system problems arise. However, if you follow #1 and #2 above, maximum resistance to parasites will be maintained. One herbal supplement that helps detoxify and prevent worm infestations is HOKAMIX®. We recommend using it 3-7 days per month along with #1 and #2 above as an insurance against parasite problems. Heartworm testing is a must starting at 6-9 months of age and at least annually thereafter. Heartworm treatment with Interceptor or paste ivermectin is a matter for your own conscience and locale. If you are close to a mosquito area, we recommend using a heartworm treatment every 45 days from March through December. If you believe in holistic and herbal approaches to health as we do, use black walnut instead of the pharmaceutical products. We add a small amount of black walnut powder directly to the animal’s food twice per week and do heartworm blood test twice per year. A nice residual effect is that the black walnut both detoxifies their large intestines. It purges all intestinal parasites and improves adrenal glad action all at the same time.
5. FLEAS. Flea control is a must. The methods need to be natural controls whenever possible (Frontline is highly effective, but also a toxic, noxious chemical). Use of diatomateous earth in carpet, nemetodes in yards, herbal supplements like "THREE" and garlic, use of essential oils and good nutritional habits, all limit your dog's exposure to fleas. Once the flea cycle is broken in your home, less controls are generally required, however, be on the lookout for new fleas especially if you travel with your dog or go to dog shows frequently. Never use flea collars, whole house flea bombs or other noxious chemicals and poisons on your animals or in your home. The side effects are not worth it. Recently, natural flea control products have been proven as effective as the chemical brands.
6. ENVIRONMENT. Exercise, pure water, sunlight for the pineal gland, proper training, loving care and grooming are positive aspects of a "wellness program". Twice per day exercise helps limit stress, keeps the animal muscle toned and happy, has positive cardiovascular effects, helps maintain proper weight and encourages proper excretion and detoxification. Besides, the interaction between pet and master is fully appreciated by the pet and the exercise won’t harm the master either.
7. KENNEL TRAINING/HOUSETRAINING. Your pup is normally started in paper training. Your main training effort for the first weeks after getting a puppy will be to train it to eliminate outside where you designate. Kennel training is rapid and easy for longer periods when the pup will be left alone. Make the kennel its "home" by making it a fun place to go with rewards and praise. Get this training done ASAP after getting a puppy. Bad habits are much harder to change than good habits are to adopt.
8. PERIODIC VETERINARIAN CHECKUPS. Annual health check ups are worth the money spent. Vets are normally great diagnosticians. Try to find a vet who is willing to use alternative therapies and natural care whenever possible. Special certifications for structural (OFA) and eye (CERF) genetic issues can be performed by referral from your regular vet. The Alternative Veterinarian Association can recommend one of their membership to you by going to their web site, http://www.altvetmed.com/.
9. DENTAL MAINTENANCE. The second leading cause for vet visits is mouth and dental problems. Even if your pet is on a completely raw natural diet, they need an effective oral hygiene program and need to be taught as a puppy to allow you to clean and brush their teeth. A raw diet will be much better for the dog's teeth and mouth, however, all dogs need some help to prevent gingivitis and periodontal diseases and infections in the mouth and under the gumline that can result in rapid degradation of organ health and shorten an animal’s life expectancy. Our program does not eliminate the need for dental cleaning by a vet, but can extend the time between cleanings by 2-6 times. Additionally, our products can mitigate mouth problems if they have already taken root and even heal damaged gum lines (See the recommendation list).
10. EAR CLEANING. The third leading cause for vet visits is ear infections. Due to the "L" shaped ear canal, wax collects in a dark place and becomes a breeding ground for mites, yeasts and bacteria. Weekly ear cleanings can ensure improved aural health and prevent common ear problems (See recommendation list). Look for alcohol free products or herbal formulas that are safe for daily use.
11. GROOMING. Your pet's skin and coat will automatically be healthy if you follow #1 and #2 above. You will need to trim your pet's nails twice per month and bathe it based on your tolerance for body odors and how much outdoor dirt your pet drags into your home. There are a myriad of shampoos and conditioners on the market. Use natural and herbal based products that limit added fragrances, chemicals and whiteners (See recommendation list).
12. GERIATRIC MAINTENANCE. Watch out for overweight conditions as your pet matures. Antioxidant use throughout a pet’s lifetime will assure it a comfortable, long life. Oral hygiene becomes increasingly important in older animals. Joint health can be optimized by use of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, sea mussel, Omega 3 and fish oil products. If you have followed #1 and #2 above throughout your pet's lifetime, you will have limited health problems and they'll have a long, active life. When the common age related problems start to come up, remember to balance health with appropriate nutritional support, herbal remedies, homeopathics and alternative modalities and treatments (see the list below). Treat the cause, not the symptom.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
1. Brands of food to consider (in descending order of preference):
Dry Foods Rolled FoodsRaw Foods Flint River Ranch Pet Deli HPPI Life’s Abundance Natural Balance The Honest Kitchen
2. Supplements (in descending order of preference):
Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) Enzyme & Herbal Supplements Fastrack for dogs, cats, horses Missing Link Canine NZymes Bac Pack Universal Enzyme Formula Nupro Hokamix Nutra Vet Enzymes & Supplement Dinovite
3. Anti-parasite products (many herbal and essential oil products are available from Nature's Sunshine Products) Hokamix 30 Neem oil Tea tree oil THREE from Nature's Sunshine Garlic powder or garlic oil Black Walnut Hull powder and extract Oxy-Drops
4. Dental products: Pet Gel from Oxyfresh Pet Oral Hygiene Solution from Oxyfresh Petz Life Raw Meaty Bones
5. Ear Cleaning: Pet Ear Cleaner from Oxyfresh Herbal Ear Formula from HealthyPetNet Absolutely Natural Ear Cleaner Oxy-Drops
6. Grooming items: Pet Shampoo from Oxyfresh Herbal Skin & Coat Conditioning Shampoo from HealthyPetNet Absolutely Natural Nutravet Conditioners and Shampoos
7. Geriatric Products: Missing Link Plus with Glucosamine MSM plus Agility Formula for Bones and Joints from Healthy Pet Net Nupro Silver Nutravet Products
8. Flower Essence Therapy: Bach Rescue Remedy and individual essences Distress Remedy from Nature's Sunshine
9. Aromatherapy: Nature's Sunshine, available in singles and combinations Nelson-Bach, single oils only
10. Eye Health: Eyebright from Nature’s Sunshine EW from Nature’s Sunshine Oxy-Drops
12. Detoxification: Vaccination Detox from Nature’s Sunshine Hokamix
Note: All the above products and company names are trademarked. Eagle Crest is an Independent Distributor/Independent Business Owner that retails the highlighted quality products above.
These and many more holistic products are available mail order or drop shipment. Contact EAGLE CREST by calling toll free 800-269-7847 or e-mail at EagleCrest2000@att.net .