Sept 16, 2013
Hi all! Finally, my first blog post. well, actually, this is a copy of the email that I sent out today, but for those of you who are not on my list, you may not have seen this.
As many of you may have heard (or experienced), there is a new strain of canine influenza going around the MD/VA/DC area...in addition to another virus spreading around the country. In times like this, the best thing to do is not to panic, but be prepared...and the best way to be prepared is to build your dog's immune system. Nothing can beat this.
Some of the things that I do include preparing a bone broth that I use as a daily 'gravy' over my dogs' raw food. If you are feeding kibble, you would want to soak the kibble until it already expanded, so that the broth doesn't expand it in the dog's stomach and cause potential problems with bloating (we do recommend feeding raw). I do this at least 3-4 times a week, and more during 'cold' season. To prepare bone broth is simple: I throw a few duck feet or chicken necks into a crock pot, add water, and sometimes a little kombu (seaweed), and turn it on low for 12-48 hours. Voila-- chicken soup for the dog!
Another way to build immune system is to supplement with Vitamin C...especially during times of stress. I recommend Ester C by Wholistic Pet. http://www.thewholisticpet.com
Diffusing essential oils is another way to keep you and your pet's environment free from harmful pathogens; these days, we are diffusing such bacteria/virus killing oils as Rosemary, Purification, Thieves, Clove and Lemon in the grooming area. I use Young Living essential oils...they are the best. I use them on your pets and mine, on myself, and these are the only oils I would recommend for therapeutic use. More info on the oils and diffusers can be found here: http://www.youngliving.org/ckraham
On the subject of essential oils, the Raindrop Technique-- a process in which a series of immune-supporting essential oils are dripped down the dog's back and 'feathered' (lightly massaged in with the backs of the fingernails) into the fur-- is highly recommended for immune support. If you can have this done monthly, this is optimal. Dogs with health issues can have this more often (ie, weekly). We are now offering this as a service at PAWS...call or email for more information.
Another thing you can do for your dog is, after or when anticipating exposure to other dogs (dog park/vet/groomer/dog show/anywhere where you will encounter other dogs) is b adding colloidal silver to the water. I also like to have a herbal antibiotic/antiviral on hand, such as Vibactra Plus, in case I see any symptoms. The benefit to an herbal blend is that the virus/bacteria etc cannot develop immunity, as with synthetic pharmaceuticals. Please note: I am not suggesting anyone use this instead f seeking veterinary care and advice: I am just sharing what I use and what has worked for me and other 'natural' folks. Both Vibactra Plus and colloidal silver can be found at one of my favorite websites: http://www.wolfcreekranch.net Everything they sell on this site is great. We also stock the Vibactra Plus at PAWS.
Probiotics are another part of the immune building process--especially is your pet is or has been on antibiotics. I give probiotics daily. Colostrum is another great one for immune support/building; I am fortunate enough to be able to get raw colostrum from a farm in PA (I belong to an organization where we are able to get the raw milk legally), but the next best thing is New Zealand powdered colostrum. Wolf Creek Ranch sells that as well.
These are my top picks for immune support. Please do be extra careful during this 'flu' season, and please...if your pet is exhibiting any signs of weakness/vomiting/diarrhea etc, seek veterinary care at your discretion. Please do not bring your pet to PAWS if s/he is not feeling well.
Well, now it is time to go and beautify some pets who are in my care today. Have a terrific day, all, and we will see you soon!!
And just as a reminder, our terrific Chiropractic Clinic is next Thursday...this is great for supporting the immune system as well!
And we are OPEN for grooming this and next Sunday; we have a few spaces open for small dogs.
Best in health and beauty! Inside and out,
Cassandra and PAWS
