Lyme Disease

Great read by Dr. Jane Bicks from the July 2014 Life's Abundance Newsletter:

It’s the height of summer, which means that mountain trails, bucolic meadows and forested thickets are beckoning your dog to romp and explore. This impulse may be at odds with concerns about new research on Lyme disease, which may have you more inclined to restrict your canine companion’s activities to the Great Indoors. Before you put the kibosh on outdoor fun, make sure you know all the facts about canine Lyme disease. According to Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2014 State of Pet Health Report, based on the medical data from over 2.3 million dogs, incidence of canine Lyme disease has increased 21% since 2009.

 As of last year, one in every 130 dogs carries the disease-causing bacteria. The risk of Lyme disease depends on where you live. In New England, Lyme disease rates are much higher than the rest of the country. New Hampshire has the highest rate of Lyme disease cases, with one in every 15 dogs affected! Compare this with Washington and Oregon, where only 1 in 1,000 dogs carried the bacteria. In the last five years, populations of the two species of ticks that carry Lyme disease have skyrocketed. As white tailed deer populations have escalated (chiefly due to declines of predator species), so too have the tick species that feast upon them. This is especially true in states east of the Rocky Mountains.

While much smaller in stature, but just as problematic in the Northeast, the white footed mouse is another carrier of the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. Greater numbers of animals that attract ticks translates to an increased likelihood that pet kids will be bitten. Lyme disease is caused by the corkscrew-shaped bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi. The bacteria are carried by ticks which transmit the infection when they feed on animals and humans. The disease can cause generalized illness in animals and humans. Even though about 75% of dogs living in endemic regions are exposed to infected ticks, only a small percentage develop symptoms.

Lyme disease was first discovered in 1975, when an unusual outbreak of rheumatoid arthritis occurred in the children of Lyme, Connecticut. In the U.S. today, it’s the most common disease transmitted to humans by insects, and perhaps dogs as well. Infections can also occur in horses and cattle … even cats. The most common sign of Lyme disease in dogs is arthritis, which causes sudden lameness, pain and sometimes swelling in one or more joints. Other symptoms include fever, lack of appetite, apathy and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, the infection can lead to kidney failure, which can prove fatal, although this outcome isn’t common (thank goodness). If your pet kid is diagnosed with Lyme disease, don’t assume that you too are contaminated. Transmission of the illness from companion animals to humans, or vice versa, is highly unlikely. You wear sunblock to prevent sunburns, so why not take preventative measures to deter ticks?

There are many highly effective veterinary products that will kill ticks before they can transmit the bacteria. Just keep in mind that the best way to avoid the problem is to steer clear of tick-infested areas, especially in the spring when young ticks are most active. After spending time outdoors, do a thorough search for ticks, on both yourself and your companion animals. If you locate any, they should be removed carefully with tweezers, pinching the tick near the head, where they enter the skin.

Researchers have learned that infected ticks must feed for about 24 hours to transmit the bacteria to a susceptible animal. That means quick removal greatly reduces the chance of contracting the illness. Fortunately, Lyme disease is easily treated in dogs with antibiotics.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. 

 Dr Jane Bicks

Dr. Jane Bicks

Cat, Dog, Human: Heart Disease

How wonderful to have Dr. Jane Bicks - important article regarding Heart Disease:
a must read!

Courtesy of Life's Abundance and the January 2014 Newsletter:

Heart Health Awareness Month is right around the corner, beginning February 1st. While technically concerned with human heart health, I think it’s vital that we expand the scope of the conversation to address canine and feline heart health, too.

Most people have a basic understanding of the risks of heart disease in humans, but when it comes to the heart health of our pet kids, that area remains a mystery to many. In the following seven frequently-asked questions, we’ll consider the parallels between all three species (humans, canines and felines), to better understand heart disease.

How Widespread is Heart Disease?

Humans: In America, heart disease is the #1 cause of death. Annually, about 600,000 people die of heart disease, one in every four deaths.

Dogs and Cats: Although reliable statistics are not readily available for adult felines or canines, heart disease is not the pressing problem that it is for humans. That being said, heart problems are still common, with one in ten dogs developing valvular heart disease. As with many health issues, the risk for heart disease increases with age, especially for dogs over the age of nine (the age varies from breed to breed).

When it comes to cats, tracking heart disease proves extremely challenging, as felines present virtually no physical symptoms from this condition.

What’s the Most Common Form of Heart Disease?

Humans: In adults, coronary artery disease is the most prevalent kind of heart disease. The main type involves plaque build-up in the arteries, which affects their ability to deliver blood to the heart. As the layers of plaque thicken and harden, blood flow to the heart is further restricted.

Dogs and Cats: The biggest difference here is that pet kids are not at-risk for coronary artery disease. While that’s good news, there are other medical conditions that dogs and cats face. Dogs can suffer from mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Mitral valve disease describes a condition where a valve on the left side of the heart fails to close properly. The problem with this is that blood pools into the left atrium, rather than exiting the left ventricle. Older, small-breed dogs are more likely to develop mitral valve disease, and the condition is only worsened by periodontal disease. DCM weakens the heart muscle so that it pumps less vigorously and regularly, a condition more common in large breeds.

Cats, on the other hand, are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Here, the walls of the heart thicken and the muscle becomes less flexible. The unfortunate result is that the heart pumps less blood. HCM is a genetic disease that is found in both pure and mixed breed cats.

What are the Symptoms of Heart Disease?

Humans: Symptoms vary depending on the disease, but patients with coronary artery disease often have chest pain, arm pain and shallow breathing. And, of course, there’s the big wake-up call of a heart attack.

Dogs and Cats: Dogs typically exhibit signs such as low energy, trouble getting comfortable, labored breathing and a low-pitched, chronic cough. On occasion, they might actually collapse or faint.

Cats may also become lethargic, as well as sleeping or hiding more than is typical. Often, cats will also lose their appetite. If a blood clot is swept from the heart and travels down through the aorta, felines can suffer a painful, sudden paralysis in their hind legs. Important note:

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately. And, if your companion animal experiences any of these symptoms, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

How Do You Test for Heart Disease?

Humans: Doctors can choose from a variety of diagnostic testing, including blood exams, treadmill tests, electrocardiograms and imaging analyses.

Dogs and Cats: For veterinarians, a stethoscope is the most effective way to identify heart disease. That being said, it is difficult to detect an issue absent a murmur. Sometimes an x-ray, ECG or echocardiogram may shed light on an undiagnosed problem.

What Medications are used for Treatment?

Humans: If you were to be diagnosed with heart disease, doctors might prescribe a blood-pressure medication, a blood thinner or a cholesterol-lowering drug (among other things). Patients often use medications to make the heart beat more slowly and to relax blood vessels.

Dogs and Cats: Many of the drugs we use are also used by dogs and cats. Treatments vary according to the animal and kind of heart disease. The important thing to note is that there are treatments available, and new research is presenting new avenues for improvement.

Can Diet Help to Prevent Heart Disease?

Humans: Diet has a big influence on heart health. Eating foods heavy with saturated and trans-fats can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries. Conversely, a diet rich in omega fatty acids, whole grains and fiber can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and help prevent heart disease.

Dogs and Cats: A healthy diet has not been proven to significantly alter the rates of canine and feline heart disease … however much more research has been done on humans in this regard. It’s hard to overstate the importance of quality food and your companion animal’s quality of life.

What About Exercise?

Humans: Yes, definitely! Exercise lowers the risk of heart attack and reduces stress, another risk factor for heart disease.

Dogs and Cats: The kinds of heart disease commonly found in cats and dogs can't be avoided through exercise. But, as with people, regular exercise will improve overall health and help prevent obesity in pets. And don’t forget what researchers, healing experts and therapy animals have been demonstrating for decades … that by taking care of a dog or a cat, you’ll also be taking care of your heart.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals.
Dr. Jane Bicks

Moving Tips for your pets

This article is from Dr. Jane Bicks, Life's Abundance Blog October 2013: It is an excellent article and contains awesome tips for you and your pets for a smooth transition as possible to a new place.

Moving to a new residence can be a nerve-wracking event for everyone involved. With the average American moving 11-14 times, that’s a lot of trips to ‘Stressville’. Between sorting through your possessions, packing up boxes, traveling to the new location, switching utilities and all of the other steps that go into a move, it’s easy to become frazzled at the mere prospect of all that work. Coordinating all of these elements can prove challenging even for folks with a knack for organization. Moving with a companion animal adds an extra layer of complexity. Whatever stress you experience on moving day goes double for companion animals, who have no idea what to expect from the commotion of a move. But, with some strategic planning and a little bit of elbow grease, you can make the transition easier on yourself and your companion animals.

GENERAL TIPS

Make sure your dog or cat wears ID tags at all times, because the likelihood of pet kids becoming separated from their people goes up dramatically during a move. If you maintain registry with a national microchip agency, be sure to update your contact information. Once you’ve moved, call your veterinary office to update your address and phone number. Did you know that a rabies tag includes the contact information for your vet’s office? It’s a built-in safeguard if your pet kid ever becomes lost, so make certain your veterinarian has your most up-to-date contact information. Call your local animal regulatory office and/or homeowner’s association to learn of any rules or legislation regarding companion animals in your new neighborhood.

DOGS ARE FAIRLY EASY

 Moving a family dog is pretty simple. Keep your dog on a leash, buckle his car harness and drive him to his new digs. If your new place features a fenced yard, show him the locations of his food, water, bedding and kennel [if your dog spends part of his day outdoors]. The new sights and smells will likely keep them occupied for hours. If there’s any anxiety, consider using a calming herbal supplement. Aside from canines with compulsive disorders, most adapt to new routines relatively quickly.

CATS REQUIRE MORE FORETHOUGHT

Cat Relocating cats can prove a bit more complicated. Cats not only bond to their people but they bond to their territory as well. As many outdoor cats are free-roaming, it can be difficult to get them to stick around long enough to establish a new territory. There are many stories of cats ending up back at their old addresses after a short-distance move, and other heartbreaking stories of cats being lost forever after a long-distance move. To keep your cat safe before, during and after a move, confinement to a secure space is required. Before the move, keep your kitty in an empty, climate-controlled room. The room should include a litterbox, bedding, food, water, toys and a scratching post (clawing is a fantastic stress reliever). Post a sign on the door, letting movers know the room has been cleared and that it should remain closed at all times. When transporting him to your new home, I strongly advise using a portable crate. If your cat is apprehensive about car travel, only going for rides to see the veterinarian, lightly spray the carrier with a feline-hormone spray that reduces stress.

Put something inside the kennel that reminds them of home, such as a favorite toy or a pillowcase that smells like you. Even if you are staying at a hotel, you should not let your cat out of the carrier - even if your kitty complains, it’s necessary to keep your cat safe, as frightened cats are likely to dart. Keep the carrier partially covered with a towel or sheet so it feels like a den. Once you’ve reached your destination, set aside a room (such as a bedroom or bathroom) to serve as a transition area. This simple step will help your kitty become acclimated to your new home. In these instances, the best medicine is time … giving your cat the personal space to settle in. Visit occasionally while you unpack, providing food, water and treats. If there’s a window, consider setting up a perch, which will give your kitty a view to his new world. Do not let your cat out until the movers are gone, the furniture is arranged and you can keep an eye on your furry friend as he explores the rest of the home.

If you would prefer not to confine your cat to a safe room, consider boarding your cat during the move. For his protection, staying at an extended-care spa or a vet’s office offers a comfortable, caring solution (also good for dogs, too). If you’ve ever considered training an outdoor cat to become an indoor-only cat, moving is a great opportunity to do just that! Short distance moves within the same neighborhood can actually prove more problematic for cats than moving to a completely new area. If your kitty knows he’s near his marked territory, he might drive you bonkers trying to convince you to let him out. In a new neighborhood, however, your cat has no established turf, so he should be less likely to prowl-yowl. If you still want to allow your cat outdoors but have concerns for his health and safety, consider investing in a harness and leash.

I hope that you’ll find these tips helpful, and wish you and your pet kids a safe move and a future of happiness in your new home.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. 

Dr Jane Bicks

Dr. Jane: Awesome tips for you and the pet sitter

From the Life's Abundance September 2013 Newsletter:
From Dr. Jane Bicks:


Pet Sitting Tips:

1. Make sure that the pet sitter you hire is bonded and insured. Ask if they have any certifications relevant to sitting. And don’t be afraid to ask for references. A big plus is if they are current members of a pet-sitting organization.

2. Try to make reservations as far in advance as possible. Some of the best sitters book up months in advance, so plan ahead to ensure the best care for your pet kid.

3. Gather everything needed to care for your pet in one easily accessible area. Supplies could include food, treats, food and water bowls, medications, a leash, a can opener, toys, garbage bags, litter and scoop, a dustpan, a broom, a watering can for plants, etc. Be sure to leave your supply well-stocked on the off-chance your return is delayed.

4. Clean out the refrigerator and empty the garbage before leaving the house, to help avoid food spoilage and to remove all temptation from your dog to go excavating. Pre-program the thermostat before you leave and give specific instructions for the sitter about an acceptable temperature range. Remember – an unventilated home can become very hot, very quickly.

5. Notify your veterinarian in writing that a pet sitter will be caring for your pet. Pre-authorize the sitter to provide emergency medical and/or surgical care during your absence, should a crisis arise.

6. If you plan to leave a gift for your sitter, i.e. garden produce, candy or a tip, leave a note of explanation. As a group, pet sitters pride themselves on honesty - if you don’t make it explicit that the gift is for them, they usually will not take it.

7. Communication is key to a successful pet-sitting experience. By-and-large, pet sitters want to learn as much as possible about your pets. They want to know about their health, habits, routine and how they might react to certain situations. In addition to exchanging contact information, they also want to know detailed information, such as if the toilet tends to run, if other people will be checking on your pet and veterinary contact information. Specific information helps a sitter to do their job to the best of their abilities.

Here are some examples of unclear and clear communication to help you know what level of detail you should share with your pet sitter:

Unclear: Feed twice daily, fill the bowl half-way.
Clearer: Feed 1 cup of Life’s Abundance kibble in the morning and 1 cup in the evening. Food is located in the pantry off the stairs, and the bowl should remain by the back door.

Unclear: Pills in the morning and evening.
Clearer: Willy gets 1 tablet (0.4 mg) levothyroxine in the morning and in the evening with food. Willy and Starfox each get one tablet of Life’s Abundance Skin & Coat Supplement once daily in the morning. Pills are on the counter next to the kitchen sink. Willy and Starfox will eat the Skin and Coat supplement, but you have to hide the levothyroxine for Willy in a piece of cheese. Starfox will eat the medication if Willy drops it, so make sure Starfox is in a different room when you give Willy his medication.

Unclear: Feed dogs separately.
Clearer: Starfox eats his food more quickly than Willy, and then tends to bully Willy away from his food. This has resulted in a couple of aggressive acts, but that’s rare. Feed Starfox in the living room and Willy in the kitchen. Be sure to keep them separated until they’ve both finished their meals. It generally takes Willy 20 minutes to finish his food. Each dog may have one dental treat after they finish their meals. Willy prefers to have his cookies broken in halves.

This information should be kept in the same area as all the supplies. Save everything in a computer file and you won’t have to duplicate the task every time you hire a sitter. Providing the right information, with all pertinent details, not only makes your sitter’s job easier, but keeps your pets happier and safer, which is the common goal we all share!

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. Dr Jane Bicks Dr. Jane Bicks

Probiotics in Pet Food

Lately there are numerous commercials explaining gut health, good bacteria, special yogurt and more for humans and better health.

Could that be true for pets as well?

For me it has always been something important for my canine and feline family members. With Life's Abundance I feel confident feeding my pets not only because of the ingredients but the probiotics are listed in the guaranteed analysis.

 Please click here below to read a great article from Dr. Jane Bicks, formulator of Life's Abundance pet food about probiotics.

Pet Teeth and Dental Care

Dr. Jane Bicks explains how your pet's teeth and dental health is so important.
  

Dental Disease Can Be Painful, Even Deadly
I'm sure all of you know that dental disease causes "doggie breath", but you may not be aware that chronic inflammation can cause pain, lead to infections, and serves as a precursor to much more serious issues. For instance, severe periodontal disease is significantly correlated with increased risk of heart disease, such as infected heart valves (Glickman et al., 2009). Chronically inflamed and infected gums also increase the risk for kidney disease, limiting the amount of toxins they can purify from the blood (Glickman et al., 2011). I'd ask that you keep in mind that inflamed and infected gums are just as painful for dogs as they are for humans, potentially lowering your companion animal's quality of life. The bottom line is, a healthier mouth makes for a happier dog!

Please visit the March 2012 newsletter to read more!

Feline Digestive Disorders

From the Life's Abundance Pet Newsletter for February, 2012
Dr Jane Bicks shares about feline digestive disorders:

"Second only to upper-respiratory illness, digestive disorders are the chief reason for feline veterinary visits. Cats with digestive problems exhibit symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea, to weight loss, constipation and excessive gas. While the causes are many, feline IBS and IBD are two common digestive disorders. On many occasions, they are mistaken for one another, which is unfortunate because they call for very different treatments. In this post, we'll cover the basics and try to clear up the confusion surrounding these disorders." Please click here to read the entire article

Life's Abundance Pet Newsletter

We are pleased to share with you the Life's Abundance Pet Newsletter (click) for November 2011:

Dr. Sarah has a great video discussing dog park guidelines.
Some great points that you would think everyone should know.

Dr. Jane has a great article on your children wanting a pet but possible allergies.
She discusses great ideas and tips on how to handle this situation.

Please enjoy the newsletter!

Lifes Abundance, Antioxidants, Vitamin E, and Your Pet

"As a holistic veterinarian, I feel it is incredibly important to take the whole animal into consideration when it comes to nutrition. And, whenever practical, my preference is to provide nutrients, minerals and vitamins in their natural forms. In this post, I’d like to talk to you specifically about vitamin E, to review both the strengths and weaknesses of natural and synthetic forms.

Vitamin E is an incredibly complex and important nutrient that, among other things, functions as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are naturally occurring nutrients that promote health by slowing the destructive aging process of cells (a breakdown called “peroxidation”).

Antioxidants like vitamin E are crucial to the health of companion animals of any age. They can improve the quality of the immune response and the effectiveness of vaccines in young pets, and help maintain a vital immune system in seniors."

Why this source of antioxidants is so important to your pet's long-term health?

How can you determine if the products you are using contain the synthetic or natural form of vitamin E?


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Lifes Abundance dog food contains natural Vitamin E