Alternative Veterinary Care - What Is It?
Apartment Living Tips for You and Your Pet
Having Fun at a Dog Park
Natural Pest Controls Safe for Poochie and Pussycat
Pets and the Garden
Pro-Humane Animal Shelters
Proper Etiquette for Dogs While Dining Out
Retirement for a Cat
Should You Train Your Dog?
Taking Home a Newly Adopted Dog

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Alternative Veterinary Care - What Is It?

Alternative veterinary care involves the use of “natural” healing techniques, natural substances and, herbal medicine to restore the body to health. Conventional or orthodox medicine, on the other hand encompasses the use of drug therapy to treat illness and disease.

In the same vein, “holistic” doctors try to treat the whole individual. Orthodox medicine seems to focus on “curing” isolated symptoms or individual diseases without emphasizing their relationship to the entire individual. Some of the techniques are controversial, but may include acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, herbal therapy, and clinical nutrition. Here is a brief overview of these techniques:

Most of us are familiar with acupuncture. After Richard Nixon visited China in the early seventies, the barriers between our two cultures were relaxed and the benefits of acupuncture were revealed. This is actually one of the few alternative therapies that has been clinically proven to work under rigorous scientific scrutiny. Acupuncture involves stimulating certain locations of the bodys surface to influence physiological functioning of a particular part of the body or the entire body. Acupuncture is based on the Chinese concept of energy transformation called “Chi”. Acupuncture reduces the blockage to this vital energy to promote healing.

Chiropractic medicine deals with the relationship between the articulations of the skeletal and nervous systems and their roles in the restoration and maintenance of health. Chiropractic adjustments include restoring misaligned vertebrae to their proper position in the spinal cord. Misaligned vertebrae can cause pain and dysfunction in muscles, lymphatic and organ systems, as well as an imbalance in the normal body processes. These adjustments (theory holds) allow the body to heal itself so it can be restored.

Homeopathy suggests that one can stimulate the body to heal itself. This practice takes the view that symptoms are not something wrong, but rather are a sign that the body is attempting to heal itself. “Remedies” are prescribed by homeopaths to bring about a “cure”. The symptom picture of the ill patient is matched to the medicine that causes that same pattern of symptoms in a healthy individual. The remedy itself does not heal; it stimulates the body to heal itself. However, each individual is unique and may require a different remedy for the same symptom, depending on the unique history of the patient.

Herbal therapy has a long history. It was practiced in Greek and Roman times and expanded exponentially after the discovery of the “New World”. Herbs are plants (or substances derivatives from plants) that are used for medicinal purposes. These plants are sometimes found growing naturally “in the wild”, or can be easily cultivated. The best kept records on the effects of herbs were kept by botanists and healers who were either Franciscan or Dominican monks, Jesuit priests, or explorers who spent time living with the “conquered” Native Americans in the “New World”. Many of our present day medicines are derived from plants (anesthetics, quinine for malaria, digitalis for heart disease). Herbs are used to improve the nutritional and biological plane of the individual, strengthen the immune system, and treat diseases.

Clinical nutrition gained prominence as research has clearly demonstrated that good nutrition will prevent some disease states and actually cure others. Beneficial components of curative and preventive foods include foods rich in vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, minerals, essential fatty acids, and botanicals. Many times a diet may be recommended or formulated that will greatly aid the patient in fighting disease or curing illness.

Article by Dr David Gordon , VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital

Apartment Living Tips For You And Your Pet

Pets can add both companionship and a wonderful dimension to apartment living. Theres something about a puppys cock-eyed expression or a kittens purr that seems to convey, ?Take me into your home and love me forever.? So when this means Fido or Fluffy are moving into an apartment, there are great benefits, but important responsibilities that come with the territory.

“For many of our residents, their pet is not only a companion, but also like a member of the family,” says Yolanda Daniels, Community Manager at Turtle Rock Vista Apartment Homes, located in Irvine.

The first tip to creating a harmonious home life for you and your pet is to look at your apartment as your pet would. During the weekdays, many people may spend from eight to twelve hours a day away from home. So while you may be running errands or and in conversation with coworkers, your pet is home alone. Without any outlet for exercise and interaction, your four-legged friend may take out frustrations on your couch, or climb the walls.

Theres nothing more memorable than coming home to a pet temper tantrum or a pets boredom -- but most destructive behavior can be prevented with a little planning on your part. A second tip is to make walking or running with your leashed dog a part of your daily exercise routine. Take in the local Neighborhood Park or get together with other dog owners in your community for a weekly excursion to a Dog-friendly Park or beach.

Finicky felines feeling neglected may uproot carpet and shred draperies, upholstery or clothing. Another tip is to purchase a scratching post, jungle gym, or window ledge for your cat to enjoy when youre not at home. Although cats may not require daily walking and bathroom breaks, they do need a few minutes of bonding time with their owners day. Common household items like ribbons, feather dusters and paper bags may turn your cuddly cat-napper into a happy jungle animal.

Article by The Irvine Companies Apartment Communities, providing the best possible home for people as well as their pets, and offering more than 70 apartment communities, many of which are pet-friendly.

To inquire about any of Irvine Apartment Communities apartment homes, call the toll-free apartment information line at (888) 484-9281, or visit the rental living Apartment Information Center, located in the Harvard Place Shopping Center at Harvard and Main Streets in Irvine. For a listing of pet-friendly communities, please visit Irvine Apartment Communities on the Internet at www.rental-living.com.

Having FUN At A Dog Park

Being able to take your dog off leash to socialize and play with other dogs in a fenced, off-leash dog park is a real treat in communities where the standard rule is that a dog must stay in the yard or be on a leash.

Because the first dog-park visit can be a little stressful for the novice user (human and dog), first-time visitors might consider visiting the park at non-peak times, mid-day Monday through Friday. It may take a couple of tries, or even a few weeks of visits, before your dog comes out of his/her shell. Make the first several visits short in duration. With regular dog park visits you may find your pet friendlier, well-adjusted and more playful.

Here are guidelines to follow that will make your dogs experience the best it can be while playing in the park:

• First and foremost, make sure your dog will come when called. This is an important command in case there is trouble. Practice before you go to a park.
  
  
• Ensure that your pet is currently vaccinated against common canine diseases. Contact your veterinarian if youre not sure which shots are important. Dog Parks are like elementary schools. Your canine child will be exposed to many different diseases while playing. You dont want to bring them home with you.
  
  
• Only bring adult and non-aggressive dogs to the park. Also, small children and dog parks usually dont mix well. Dog parks were created for socially adept dogs. Dog fights in dog parks are rarely a problem, because dogs consider it to be neutral territory.

Here We Go...

Walk your dog on leash from the car to the dog park entrance. The parking lot is not safe for loose dogs. Most dog parks have a double entry door system. Use this to your advantage, making sure that at least one of the doors is closed at all times. When the vestibule is empty, take your dog inside and close the first door. Remove the leash and then walk with your dog through the second doorway. Close the door behind you. Reverse this action on the way out. Once inside the park, all dogs should be off-leash, since leashed dogs may feel threatened and growl or bark when approached by off-leash dogs.

• If you wish to take a toy with you, make sure it is not your pets favorite. Dominance issues (DONT TOUCH MY TOY!) may arise which could cause your pet to become unusually aggressive and bite.



• Please clean up after your dog! Always, always scoop the poop right away! Its easy to forget, and all eyes will be on you! This is the single most important thing owners can do to insure the ongoing success of the Dog Park.

Supervise your dog closely at all times. Some dogs are easily stimulated and overwhelmed by all the activity. Watch for signs such as: increased barking; intense or obsessive (not playful) chasing; hiding; growling; snapping; and finally, fighting. Now, go have fun!

Article by Delores Keyes, Director at Irvine Animal Care Services. For more information on our park and shelter call 949.724.7740

• ANTS: Catnip, lemon juice and rind, tobacco tea spray, natural ant traps [keep up from chewers]
• APHIDS & WHITEFLY: Spray with hose, tobacco tea, ivory liquid solution. For roses plant Society Garlic among bushes.
• CUTWORMS: Can and paper collars.
• FLEAS/TICKS: Oil of Orange, Yeast and Garlic in pet food, Eucalyptus and Pennyroyal herb teas rinse.
• NEMATODES: French Marigolds planted among the vegetables.
• SNAILS: Broken egg shells, beer in shallow pans, citrus peels [this may also keep cats out of your garden as they don’t like the smell of citrus]

**Few bugs can tolerate a hot pepper spray solution. This may also deter “a pruning pet” [see below].Many of the strong smelling herbs such as mint, rosemary, opal basil, tansy and coriander planted throughout the garden will repel insects. Choose your herb carefully making sure to leave plenty of room for the “spreaders” like mint.

• Flowers That Add Color And Also Repel Insects:
• Marigolds repel aphids.
• Nasturtiums draw aphids away and repel whitefly & squash bugs.
• Geraniums keep beetles from roses.
• Petunias repel ants & black aphids.
• The Pyretheium flower which resembles a daisy is one of the most potent bug and insect repellents and can be ordered from most seed catalogs.

DOGGY DIETARY DETERRENTS... OR BAD TASTING POTIONS YOUR POOCH [OR PUSSYCAT / OTHER PET] WON’T LIKE

ALOE AGGRAVATION: use commercial aloe jell or partially peeled leaves [put in juicer or blender] from your plant and mix approximately 1/2 lb. to 2 gallons of water . Sprinkle on leaves or use medium size brush to paint on plant. This gives a bitter taste and also repels rabbits.

PEPPER POOCH AND PUSSYCAT PROHIBITOR: There are pepper sprays on the market made up of cayenne peppers and a water solution. Some contain wax to aid in the solution adherence. You can also make your own potion by placing 2 Tbs of cayenne pepper and 6 drops of dishwashing soap in one gallon of water. Place solution in a spray bottle and apply to plants make sure to avoid spraying when your pet is around so as not to get near eyes or fur.

KITTY CITRUS CONTEMPT NO.5 and No. 6: Cats don’t care for citrus! Spray a citrus scented oil such as oil of citronella lightly on the soil near your plants. Scatter pieces of orange and lemon peel over the ground around your plants. If left on all night, these peelings will also so attract snails in the garden that they will be found clinging to the pieces and can be readily picked off in the morning.

For more information, call: [760] 631-7886 and find out how you can get a copy of the upcoming “PLANTING WITH YOUR POOCH” garden book.

Pets and the Garden ...Can Your Plants and Pooch Be Friends?

Are you hesitating to adopt a pet for fear of losing your beautiful lawn or garden? Here are some tips that may help you, your pet AND the garden to coexist happily.

Now that your pet is surrounded by safe plants, how do you keep your plants safe from your pet? Is your pet a “digger?” Digging is an ancient instinct going back to hunting days. For your dog, it may be related to comfort, hormonal urges or just plain fun. Compulsive digging often occurs when a dog is left alone for extended periods of time. Your pet may be expressing his loneliness in a very physical way. Daily leash walks with a chance to do some territorial “marking” can help.

If you have a true digger or area terrorizer, there is an option: You can divide the yard into two parts – one landscaped area for you and one for the dog. But remember that dogs like to be close to us, and if possible arrange it so he can perhaps even see in the house windows. Put a fence around his special area where it will be okay to dig and enjoy doggie fun. You may also bury some treats there for a “doggie” treasure hunt! Allow him in your part only when you are there to supervise his activities. Make his yard inviting to him; include some sand for digging, platforms for sunning (not too close to the fence for jumpers), include some chew toys, and perhaps a plastic swimming pool for those water loving breeds.

If you can catch your pet in the act of digging a hole, hold your dogs head to the hole and correct him in a low warning voice, then guide him over to his “ok” area and praise him soothingly. And remember, NEVER punish your animal in anger. Dogs speak tone of voice and body language, not English, and certainly not harsh punishment.

Does Your Community Have A Pro-Humane Shelter? Why Not?

Every year, countless numbers of animals are quietly euthanized at county animal control facilities.  Few citizens know that when they call about a stray animal theyve found, animal control has no choice but to send that animal to a central facility that is overwhelmed with dogs and cats.  That was the situation in San Clemente and Dana Point, until a few unassuming citizens worried about a stray dogs plight.  Looking for help for medical bills and hoping to find like-minded individuals…a simple ad in a local paper became the spearhead for animal advocates to band together and form a volunteer group to help the abandoned and lost animals in their community. A converted skating rink was a starting point in 1983.  Through hard work, fundraising and a strong pro humane philosophy, the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter was constructed and opened in 1996.  That group of volunteers, now know as Pet Project Foundation, Inc.  made the difference in their communities…you can too.

If you do not have an animal shelter in your city, find out why.  Check with neighboring cities that are operating a pro humane facility and ask questions. Almost all shelters have an active volunteer force that is organized and can offer a wealth of knowledge.  Funding is available in a variety of sources, a favorite sounce being Maddies Fund.  (www.maddiesfund.org). Visit local shelters and ask for a tour.  You will find plenty of volunteer organizations eager to help you and your group be an advocate in creating a proper home for your cities abandoned animals.   In San Clemente and Dana Point, the volunteer group works in partnership with  CASA (Coastal Animal Services Authority), the city arm of the shelter operations.  CASA handles the  Animal Control services, licensing and management, while the volunteer group supplies funding for medical, food, training, beds, toys, treats and hands on nurturing.

Be a animal champion in your community!  Develop a Mission Focus, build a Strong Relationship between your volunteer group and the city, have a Plan for growth and orientation, be Flexible in your pursuit of the Mission and Celebrate Success early on and on an ongoing basis! 

The Pet Project Foundation continues to explore new and exciting opportunities to educate the public on pet overpopulation and its consequences.  We are also proactively seeking new and exciting ways to expand our facility, allowing all pet loving citizens to learn about the care and training of healthy, happy animals.

Valerie Treaster, Chairman of the Board
Pet Project Foundation, Inc.
www.petprojectfoundation.org  

Proper Etiquette for Dogs

At the Park:

• Park users and dog owners assume all risk related to park use.
• Enter at your own risk. By entering these parks, you agree to assume all duties and releases of liability as set forth in the Citys Waiver & Release of Liability.
• Owners must remain with dogs and carry a leash within fenced areas.
• Owners must clean up after their dogs.
• Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.
• Dogs exhibiting dangerous behavior are prohibited.
• Dogs must be wearing a collar with identification at all times.
• Puppies under four months of age are prohibited.
• Dogs in heat are prohibited.
• Limit three dogs per person per visit.
• An adult must closely supervise children.
• Dogs must be leashed prior to entering and upon leaving the park.
• Most County parks have a 6' leash regulation.

• Retractable leashes are considered to be LONGER than 6' even if they are constrained to extend LESS than 6 feet.
You may receive a citation and a fine for using a retractable leash in some County parks*

Dining with Doggie, Cuisine with Kitty:

We have a number of wonderful pet-friendly cafés in our business listings pages who are happy to accommodate well-mannered pets and their owners on patio facilities. Please show them your courtesy by following these suggestions:

1. Government health regulations require pets to remain outside in patio facilities only. Your cafe host will be happy to direct you to the right location.
2. Bring pets that will either stay in a quiet manner on leash or in a small carrier by your table.
3. Occupy your pet with a favorite chew toy while you dine.
4. Dont forget to bring along a portable water bowl just in case the café cant provide one.
5. Please remember when you take your pet in public, you represent all pet owners. Be sensitive to other diners and thank the Management. Be sure to tell the Management you found them through the PetLovers Publications Web Site or in one of our Pet Guides or Handbooks!

Email us at judypetluv@hotmail.com

Retirement For A Cat ...You've Got To Be Kidding!?

No, were not kidding. National Cat is just one of the many Humane Shelters that has a retirement center for cats. A place where (for a prearranged fee) cats who can no longer be cared for by their human companions can live out the rest of their lives in a clean, safe loving environment.

The reasons one might want to consider prearranged retirement plans for their cats are varied. A couple of important ones are the possible, sudden onset of a debilitating illness, or even death. Many people mistakenly think their relatives will take in their dearly beloved pet. Dont count on it. Many relatives cast them out on the street to fend for themselves or dump them at Animal Control where more than likely they will be euthanized because of their age. Some will try (unsuccessfully) to place them at a private shelter.

Fact: Most private shelters are always at capacity and have a waiting list of 8 months to a year to bring a cat in for adoption. Most will not take a cat that is 6 years or older because they are not as adoptable as a younger cat or kitten. So if you have a cat you dearly love you may want to consider the option of prearranged retirement.

For more information on preparing for this possibility please contact us at:

"Planning for the Future" c/o National Cat: 6904 W.Coast Hwy • Newport Beach, CA 92662
Phone: (949) 650-1232
Fax: (949) 650-7367

San Diego County at 9031 Birch Street * Spring Valley, CA. 91977
Phone: (619) 469-8771
Fax: (619) 469-245

Should You Train Your Dog?

Whether you have a new puppy, a dog with behavior problems, or have adopted an older dog, training your dog should always be considered. Dog training and behavior modification gives dogs a sense of structure and teaches them to follow specific rules and guidelines. Usually, the most severe cases of bad behavior are due to a lack of structure. With consistent rules and guidelines your dog will be most content, and more importantly, better behaved.
When choosing a professional dog trainer, whether it is for basic obedience or major behavior issues, there are many things to consider. Two major factors to consider are what is his or her philosophy on training, and what is his experience with basic dog training, problem solving and behavior management.

The Kind To Canines Dog Training and Behavior Management methods are those of positive reinforcement consisting of praise, affection, repetition, and most importantly, nothing that inflicts pain to gain a specific response from your dog. In my professional opinion, any ethical trainers philosophy should be that of a similar mindset. As far as experience is concerned, the prospective trainer should have numerous referrals and case studies which resemble the situation with your dog, including the breed of dog as well. This will show that the trainer has been in the profession for a number of years, keeping track of their case studies, whether its a basic obedience case or a very complex behavior problem.

Most obedience cases, whether new puppies or long time family companions, are easily solved with the advice and help of a professional trainer. For more information on dog training and pro blem solving, go to www.kindtocanines.com.

Dan Atkinson, Certified Trainer/Owner of Kind To Canines Obedience Training

Taking Home Your Newly Adopted Dog or Pet

Want a dog, cat, rabbit or other small pet? Have you given thought to visiting your local animal shelter? Approximately 40,000 animals enter the Orange County Animal Care Center annually. As long as there is a need to find homes for lost and stray pets, the need for county animal shelters will exist.

Some other alarming facts are that in California about 600,000 dogs and cats are euthanized each year. This is about 45% of the animals brought into public shelters. Dogs that spend a great deal of time pent up become territorial and, as a result of this and being alone, are 2.5 times more likely to bite. Every day dogs are brought into shelters and labeled as having behavior problems. Many of these behaviors are correctable when an owner devotes some educated time and energy working with the dog.

As a pet owner, you can do to help your new dog transition from shelter life to your loving home:

• Take your new dog (and any other dogs you may already have) on a long walk in a neutral area before you introduce the dog to your home. A tired dog is less stressed in a new situation.
• If you have other dogs, they need to learn to get along first, without toys and food available. Provide separate water bowls. Feed separately when it is time to eat.
• Stay with your dog as much as possible the first few days. This allows you to provide comfort in you dogs new surroundings and constantly work on leadership skills.
• If your dog is nervous or uncomfortable, do not cater to this behavior but provide relaxed and stable leadership. By nurturing the dog at this time, you are reinforcing the unwanted behavior.
• Always walk your dog prior to leaving for any extended time. Adult dogs should be exercised everyday. Play time is not exercise (walking) time.
• Feed regularly each morning and evening.
• When you leave or return home, do not say good-by or greet your dog with a big hello.
• When it is time to sleep, place your dog in a large kennel or a secured and safe area. I use my kitchen and never the bathroom.
• A chewy treat at bedtime may make this a pleasant experience.
• Dogs have short memories. They need time to learn where to play, potty and eat. Take your dog outside for potty breaks constantly in the beginning. Go to the place where it is OK to potty and give lots of praise when everything goes well.
• If an accident happens, immediately take the dog to the designated potty place, wait and praise when done correctly. Punishing after a mistake is not the answer. If you catch the dog “in the act” a verbal cue may help (shaking a can with rocks or pennies).
• Its your responsibility to remove tempting “play and chew” items such as shoes, socks and other destroyable things.
• Safe dog toys are great and will keep your dog busy when you are away, like a Kong toy stuffed with healthy treats and sealed with canned dog food or a bit of peanut butter. I prepare my Kongs and keep them in the freezer.
• Make your first trips away as short as possible. Your dog needs to learn that you will return. Remember, no big good-bys or hellos. This makes coming and going a non-stressful event.
• An evaluation from a professional dog trainer/behaviorist is highly recommended! A good dog begins with an educated owner.

Members of FOCHP and other volunteers foster puppies and kittens until they are ready to be adopted. We walk, exercise and play with animals at the shelter to help socialize them. Funds are raised to support medical care, training, and assist in temporary boarding and foster care. To make kennel life more comfortable we have begun to purchase cots for the dogs. Future goals are to purchase special shelves for the cat cages and enough cots for each dog kennel.

You can learn more about FOCHP and its effort to homeless pets by becoming a Paw Partner. Membership is only $15. You can join by logging onto our web site at: www.fochp.org.

Submitted by Lisa Clem, President and Joan Stringer, Executive Secretary of Friends of Orange Countys Homeless Pets (FOCHP). A Non Profit foundation whose mission supports shelter pets to find permanent and loving homes.