|
|
|
| |
April 30th, 2011
HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS
AFFECT HEALTH AND WELL-BEING?
۵ The extremely small molecular size of essential oils allows them to quickly penetrate the tissues of the skin, the olfactory system, and/or the digestive system.
۵ Essential oils are fat soluble and as such are capable of penetrating cell membranes, even damaged cell membranes! According to Jean Valnet, M.D., essential oils can affect every cell of the body within 20 minutes and are then metabolized like other nutrients.
۵ According to scientific medical research at the University of Vienna, essential oils stimulate blood flow, which increases oxygen and nutrient delivery.
۵ As determined by the ORAC scale, the test used to measure antioxidant abilities developed at Tufts University and used as the standard worldwide, essential oils are some of the most powerful known antioxidants in the world. Antioxidants work with the body to prevent mutations, fungus, and oxidation in cells, and work as free-radical scavengers in all systems of the body.
۵ Essential oils are naturally antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, anti-microbial, anti-parasitic, antiviral, and antiseptic. Different oils are stronger than others in each area, based on their natural chemical constituents as well as their electrical frequency. A number of essential oils have been shown to destroy all bacteria and viruses presented to them in scientific research.
۵ Essential oils are natural detoxifiers – detoxifying tissue, organs, and blood in the body. European scientists have studied the ability of essential oils to work as natural chelators, binding with heavy metals and petrochemicals and ferrying them out of the body.
۵ Essential oils containing sesquiterpenes (a naturally occurring chemical constituent) have the ability to pass the blood-brain barrier, giving them enormous therapeutic potential against neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Lou Gehrig’s, and MS.
۵ Essential oils stimulate the secretion of antibodies when needed, neurotransmitters, endorphins, hormones, and enzymes.
۵ Oils containing limonene (a naturally occurring chemical constituent) have been shown in scientific medical research to prevent and slow the progression of cancer.
۵ Essential oils, when diffused, provide therapeutic air purification by increasing ozone and negative ions in the air, eliminating odors from cooking, bacteria, mold, animals, and other sources, filling the air with a fresh, aromatic scent, digesting petro-chemical toxins in the air, and destroying bacterias, fungi, and viruses.
۵ Essential oils stimulate immune function, regenerate damaged tissue, and combat infectious diseases by eradicating bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
۵ Essential oils increase the uptake of oxygen and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel for individual cells in the body.
۵ The incredible combination of essential oils’ chemical constituents, electrical frequency, and aromatic fragrances, allow them to work synergistically to promote emotional, physical, and spiritual well being.
۵ Essential oils have a profound effect on emotions; different oils providing effects such as mood balancing, sexual desire, joy, calming, energizing, relaxation, acceptance, motivation, and more!.
۵ Essential oils are made up of three of the same elements as the human and animal body: hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon, making them a naturally assimilated substance for use in healing and well-being.
۵ Therapeutic-grade essential oils can be applied topically, inhaled or diffused for olfactory stimulation, or taken internally. Any of these applications will produce positive effects on the body, although in certain situations, one application may be more effective than another.
Posted in Essential Oils | Comments Off
March 28th, 2011
The following is actually from a Young Living Essential Oil Yahoo list I am on. The discussion is on fleas, ticks and parasites and what oils to use. There are some great tips shared here so I will pass them on.
I have used Young Living Essential Oils on my dogs for nine years instead of the toxic topical applications. They work great, smell wonderful and are very safe. For information on ordering the oils please email me at: Irishacres@new.rr.com.
I have not edited any of the following posts, I just compiled the information to pass on:
TICKS, FLEAS AND PARASITES:
Ticks and Bug Bites
Apply 1 drop PURIFICATION directly on live tick. Can also be applied to untreated tick wound and worked in with finger.
Fleas
Oils: Citronella, Melrose, Idaho tansy, eucalyptus, lemongrass, pine
Topical: Add 1-2 drops of oil to shampoo
Blend #3
Combine eucalyptus, orange, citronella, and cedarwood. Add blend to distilled water in a spray bottle, shake well, and mist over entire animal.
HORSES
Parasites
Oils: Lavender, Di-Gize, Cedarwood
Rub on paws to release parasites
Supplements: ParaFree
Flies
Oils: Idaho tansy
Add 1-5 drops to 1 ounce water in a small spray bottle, and mist over animal to keep flies away (maybe it will
Geranium Oil is our oil of choice for tick repellant – they seem to hate the
smell. I use it all spring and summer on us and our Golden Retrievers.
Spray for pet bedding – 1 cup spray bottle, spring water, 10 drops of
Purification, 5 drops Orange, 2 drops Rosemary. I use this when I change
bedding every week and in between. It helps with any fleas that might be
brought in on our animals. I spray the area under the bedding and the
bedding. I use it wherever my animals lie. It is great. I use on cat and
dog bedding. I some times end up spraying the whole house, floors and sofas
etc.
Orange Oil is sometimes called Orangacide by fleas. I found this quote on
the Internet: “Orange Oil breaks down the wax in their exoskeletons almost
right away and they die FAST. I noticed that within 5 minutes of using it
most of them were dead, within 45 minutes I had a one hundred percent kill
rate.” If your pet is infested, grab a couple fleas and put them in a jar
and then drop in a drop of oil and let us know how it goes!
Orange Oil destroys the exoskeleton of fleas and then they die! It is safe
to spray all around. You could also mix it up with borax and baking soda to
apply to the carpet. Some folks have used the Thieves Cleaner diluted also.
Flee fleas for your lives! Orange Oil is gonna get you! Celeste
We had problems with fleas/tics I’m not sure which, last year. Our cat’s
back was very scabbed from them biting him. At time he would be just laying
there and cry out. We started using some pet store remedy that only seemed
to slow it down some. It was recommended to apply every month as a
preventative measure but using it weekly was needed to slow it down. But it
never really removed the problem. So I thought with the oils I have I should
begin and use them. Peppermint was the oil I used. So one day as he was
going outside I dropped two drops on the back of his neck. The next day when
we checked him we could not find any varmints crawling around and shortly
thereafter the scabs were gone and he has had no problems thus far, however I
am thinking I should probably give him a drop to prevent the situation again
this year. The oil was right from the bottle not diluted.
Hope this helps.
>..our 5 1/2 year female cat loves her Lavender baths…makes her coat and skin very shiny and sweet smelling. Jewel freaks out with running water so I soak her wash cloth with hot water and add about 3 to 4 drops on the washcloth and rub her down….works wonders!!! Gottta love YL oils
Posted in Natural Health Care | 3 Comments »
March 25th, 2011
I have been receiving tons of questions on the format and layout of the Blog and Website. The Blog is done with WordPress. The Blog and Website were designed by Virtualtech Web Site Design and Promotion, Inc. in Appleton, WI. Please check out their website at: www.virtualtech.com and contact them by email at: information@virtualtech.com .
I love to write and share natural health information on pet, however, I am very “technically challenged” so they handle all of the design of my website and created the blog format. Thanks for all of the compliments on both, all the credit goes to Virtualtech. Please contact them with any questions on format or layout.
Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments »
March 23rd, 2011
Basic Information for Raw Feeding
There is a wealth of information available today concerning feeding a raw diet, both on the internet and in books. Here is just a short list of some of the major health benefits:
- Increase in energy level and stamina.
- Increase in lean body mass and loss of unwanted fat.
- Significant improvement in dental health.
- Less skin problems – pets on raw food diets have thicker, healthier coats and fewer skin problems.
- Reduction in ear infections and ear problems related to food allergies.
- Overall strengthening of the immune system.
- Reduction in anal sac problems – firm stools help empty anal sacs regularly.
- Greater mobility and fewer problems with arthritis.
- Hormonal balancing and help with incontinence issues.
- Improved water balance and reduction in urinary problems including urinary crystals/stones.
- Reduction of dry eye syndrome.
- Increased resistance to parasites.
- Less likely to develop diabetes because of low level of carbohydrates in the diet.
- Improvement in behavioral problems including erratic behavior and hyperactivity.
- A longer, healthier life with fewer degenerative diseases and decreased risk of cancer.
So how do you start?
The easiest way to switch over is to purchase a premade raw diet. Most raw diets come in the form of patties or medallions. Quite simply, you defrost it (not in the microwave please!) and put it in their dish.
How much should I feed?
When feeding kibble you feed in cups, when feeding raw you feed in pounds. The recommended amount for a mature dog is 2% of their ideal body weight. For example a 50 pound dog would get approximately one pound a day. One-half pound in the morning and one-half pound in the evening. Puppies need anywhere between 6% to 10% of their body weight until they reach their adult weight. Every dog is different; you need to consider their activity level, age, and metabolism. Simply put, for an adult dog, if they are gaining weight cut back, if they need to put on weight increase the amount you are feeding.
The easiest way to be accurate in the amount you are feeding is to purchase an inexpensive food scale. Put their dish, (a stainless steel one is best) on the scale and 0 it out, then add the food. Don’t be afraid to add variety to their food, raw eggs (with shells); small amounts of fresh fruits or vegetables, chicken necks, wings, turkey necks, sardines packed in water, the list is endless. Just be sure you stay at the right amount. If you are feeding one half pound per meal, make sure everything combined equals one half pound.
Once you are comfortable with the concept of raw diet you may want to venture into making your own. It is extremely easy and if you have a large dog, or several dogs in your pack, it is much for economical. I have been making my own food for my dogs for the last eight years and honestly it is no more complicated than putting together a batch of chili. It is also a wonderful way to use all those extra vegetables in your garden!
But, my vet said…….
When asking questions and gathering information be careful of whom you ask. If you are asking your vet about feeding a raw diet first ask if he/she has any experience or training in feeding raw. Unfortunately, most vet schools do not include much training about nutrition as part of their curriculum. What is presented is usually by a representative of one of the dog food companies that supports the vet school. Just as you wouldn’t ask your hairdresser about a problem with your car, make sure you find someone who is knowledgeable about raw diet when you ask questions!.
My dog is older, is it too late to switch?
It is never too late to switch to raw food. In fact, as they age, the harder it is for them to digest dry food. I switched two of my 12 y.o. goldens over to raw when I first began eight years ago and was amazed at the increase in energy level and mobility.
If you have never considered feeding raw, or have just been thinking about it, it is time to do some research, get your questions answered. Your dog will love you for it!!!
Here is my basic raw diet recipe which I have been using for nine years. This makes approximately 60 pounds of raw food. You can certainly cut it in half.
20 lbs raw ground chicken w/bone
10 lb raw ground beef
10 lbs ground veggies (dark leafy greens are best but you can use
any that are in season)
5 lbs tripe
5 lbs organ meat (liver, kidney, etc.)
5 lbs muscle meat if available (heart, tongue, gullet)
1 dozen raw organic eggs with shell (I put mine in the food processor)
(you can also add an egg several times a week when you feed if you
Prefer)
1 cup Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother)
1 cup Aloe Vera Juice
I put everything together in a 10 gallon Tupperware tub, stir well and pack in 5# containers and freeze.
In addition to this mixture I also rotate feeding whole chicken backs, necks, wings, lamb breasts, turkey necks – what ever is available or on sale. Be sure to use only grass fed poultry or beef to avoid hormones and antibiotics.
Whether purchasing premade or making your own, you will be doing the very best thing for your dog!
Below is our youngest golden doing what she loves best – agility! Journey has been raw fed from a pup. She has tons of energy, is in excellent health and loves her raw food!
 Run Baby Run!
Posted in Raw Food | 35 Comments »
March 22nd, 2011
Since yesterday was the first day of Spring and anyone NOT living in Wisconsin may already be planning or working in their garden, I would like to share this information on Round Up. Round Up is widely used by both farmers and home gardeners for a weed killer. If you cats or dogs are allowed outside by your garden or flower beds they wil be walking in or near where this is applied. The pads of their feet are just like our skin. Everthing they absorb through their pads goes directly into their bodies and can affect every organ of their body, therefore, it is crucial that you are aware of what chemicals you are exposing them to.
The following article is a recent study on Round Up:
New Evidence Establishes Dangers of Round Up Weed Killer
Chee Yoke Heong
New studies from both sides of the Atlantic reveal that Roundup, the most widely used weed killer in the world, poses serious human health threats. More than 75 percent of genetically modified (GM) crops are engineered to tolerate the absorption of Roundup—it eliminates all plants that are not GM. Monsanto Inc., the major engineer of GM crops, is also the producer of Roundup. Thus, while Roundup was formulated as a weapon against weeds, it has become a prevalent ingredient in most of our food crops.
Three recent studies show that Roundup, which is used by farmers and home gardeners, is not the safe product we have been led to trust.
A group of scientists led by biochemist Professor Gilles-Eric Seralini from the University of Caen in France found that human placental cells are very sensitive to Roundup at concentrations lower than those currently used in agricultural application.
An epidemiological study of Ontario farming populations showed that exposure to glyphosate, the key ingredient in Roundup, nearly doubled the risk of late miscarriages. Seralini and his team decided to research the effects of the herbicide on human placenta cells. Their study confirmed the toxicity of glyphosate, as after eighteen hours of exposure at low concentrations, large proportions of human placenta began to die. Seralini suggests that this may explain the high levels of premature births and miscarriages observed among female farmers using glyphosate.
Seralini’s team further compared the toxic effects of the Roundup formula (the most common commercial formulation of glyphosate and chemical additives) to the isolated active ingredient, glyphosate. They found that the toxic effect increases in the presence of Roundup ‘adjuvants’ or additives. These additives thus have a facilitating role, rendering Roundup twice as toxic as its isolated active ingredient, glyphosate.
Another study, released in April 2005 by the University of Pittsburgh, suggests that Roundup is a danger to other life-forms and non-target organisms. Biologist Rick Relyea found that Roundup is extremely lethal to amphibians. In what is considered one of the most extensive studies on the effects of pesticides on nontarget organisms in a natural setting, Relyea found that Roundup caused a 70 percent decline in amphibian biodiversity and an 86 percent decline in the total mass of tadpoles. Leopard frog tadpoles and gray tree frog tadpoles were nearly eliminated.
In 2002, a scientific team led by Robert Belle of the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) biological station in Roscoff, France showed that Roundup activates one of the key stages of cellular division that can potentially lead to cancer. Belle and his team have been studying the impact of glyphosate formulations on sea urchin cells for several years. The team has recently demonstrated in Toxicological Science (December 2004) that a “control point” for DNA damage was affected by Roundup, while glyphosate alone had no effect. “We have shown that it’s a definite risk factor, but we have not evaluated the number of cancers potentially induced, nor the time frame within which they would declare themselves,” Belle acknowledges.
There is, indeed, direct evidence that glyphosate inhibits an important process called RNA transcription in animals, at a concentration well below the level that is recommended for commercial spray application.
There is also new research that shows that brief exposure to commercial glyphosate causes liver damage in rats, as indicated by the leakage of intracellular liver enzymes. The research indicates that glyphosate and its surfactant in Roundup were found to act in synergy to increase damage to the liver.
UPDATE BY CHEE YOKE HEONG
Roundup Ready weed killer is one of the most widely used weed killers in the world for crops and backyard gardens. Roundup, with its active ingredient glyphosate, has long been promoted as safe for humans and the environment while effective in killing weeds. It is therefore significant when recent studies show that Roundup is not as safe as its promoters claim.
This has major consequences as the bulk of commercially planted genetically modified crops are designed to tolerate glyphosate (and especially Roundup), and independent field data already shows a trend of increasing use of the herbicide. This goes against industry claims that herbicide use will drop and that these plants will thus be more “environment-friendly.” Now it has been found that there are serious health effects, too. My story therefore aimed to highlight these new findings and their implications to health and the environment.
Not surprisingly, Monsanto came out refuting some of the findings of the studies mentioned in the article. What ensued was an open exchange between Dr. Rick Relyea and Monsanto, whereby the former stood his grounds. Otherwise, to my knowledge, no studies have since emerged on Roundup.
For more information look to the following sources:
Professor Gilles-Eric, criigen@ibfa.unicaen.fr
Biosafety Information Center, http://www.biosafety-info.net
Institute of Science in Society, http://www.i-sis.org.uk
The GOOD news is that there are many natural, healthy alternatives! If you prefer to make your own natural, inexpensive week killer take a spray bottle, add at least 1/4 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of white vinegar, fill the rest with water and spray away!
There are now many organic lawn care companies around. Give them a call to help keep you lawn, your pets and family healthy!!!!!!
Posted in Natural Health Care | 74 Comments »
March 16th, 2011
I am going to put my rescue hat on for a moment. I have been involved with golden retriever rescue for over twelve years, fostering, helping dogs with medical problems, assessing dogs at shelters and doing home visits for potential adopters. The things I have seen in those years as I have rescued the dogs have almost broken my heart.
Before you bring a puppy home – think! They are adorable when they are little but they will soon grow up. Do you have the time to train them, socialize them, feed them properly, not the junk that comes in a bag from your discount store. Will you have funds to take them to the vet when needed? Puppies are miracles with paws! A dog will bring untold joy and love to your life, he will be your best friend forever.
The following poem has been around for awhile. It is my hope that it will make someone stop and think before they decide to bring a pup home. For the hundreds of dogs we rescue there are hundreds we can’t.
DO I GO HOME TODAY?
My family brought me home cradled in their arms.
They cuddled me and smiled at me and said I was full of charm.
They played with me and laughed with me and showered me with toys.
I sure do love my family, especially the little girls and boys.
The children loved to feed me; they gave me special treats.
They even let me sleep with them – all snuggled in the sheets.
I used to go for walks, often several times a day.
They even fought to hold the leash, I’m very proud to say.
These are the things I’ll not forget – a cherished memory.
I now live in the shelter – without my family.
They used to laugh and praise me when I played with that old shoe.
But I didn’t know the difference between the old one and the new.
The kids and I would grab a rag, for hours we would tug.
So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed the bedroom rug.
They said that I was out of control and would have to live outside.
This I didn’t understand, although I tried and tried.
The walks stopped, one by one; they said they hadn’t time.
I wish that I could change things; I wish I knew my crime.
My life became so lonely in the backyard, on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long to keep from going insane.
So they brought me to the shelter but were embarrassed to say why.
They said I caused an allergy, and then they each kissed me goodbye.
If I’d only had some training as a little pup.
I wouldn’t have been so hard to handle when I was all grown up.
“You only have one day left”,
I heard the worker say.
Does that mean I have a second chance?
Do I go home today?
Posted in memory of all the dogs in all the shelters that will never have a chance at a second home. Please feel free to share.
Posted in Uncategorized | 66 Comments »
March 9th, 2011
Spring is just around the corner! Yes, I know in our neck of the woods, Wisconsin, that is hard to imagine with 6 inches of snow still on the ground, but have faith warmer weather will be here soon. Along with the warmer weather comes the pests we have to deal with with our pets, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, etc. Before you reach for the topical monthly liquid or spray, you need to be aware of the facts.
I am adamant about not exposing my dogs to toxins. Many pet owners use these products and never think about what they are acutally putting on their pets, or the side effects of using these products. The following is an excerpt from Dr. Steven Eisen’s book:
Dog Cancer: The Holistic Answer
FLEA AND TICK PRODUCTS
“Commercial flea and tick shampoos, collars, dips, sprays, and “spot on” products all contain cancer-causing agents. Worse yet, the effects are cumulative over time. The more commercial flea products that have been applied to your dog, the higher the probability that he/she will become sick. I cannot emphasize this too much: you need to eliminate the application of all commercial flea and tick products if you want to keep your dog healthy.
A 2000 report by Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Poisons on Pets: Health Hazards from Flea and Tick Products, documented a statistically significant association between exposure to topical flea and tick dips and the occurrence of bladder cancer in dogs.
In 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said it received 44,000 complaints regarding “spot on” pest prevention products. These are liquid pesticides that are usually sold in small tubes and squeezed onto the pet’s fur and rubbed into the skin. The reactions ranged from skin irritation to seizures and even death. In April 2009, the EPA announced that it was going to scrutinize such products more vigorously. More information can be found here: http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/health/flea-tick-control.html.
If you are still not convinced of the dangers posed by these products, please read Ticked Off With Dangerous Flea (and Tick) Control Products? On the blog at www.petside.com “
Dr. Eisen is stating what I have been preaching for years now. The skin is the largest organ in the body and what you put on the skin is absorbed into every organ in your pet’s body! I have not used any pesticide flea and tick control product in over nine years and have never had a problem. The are many natural alternatives that do not compromise your pet’s health!
The following are some safe alternatives to consider:
Shoo Tags – Shoo Tag is an animal/people specific tag that uses frequencies targeted against specific pests. These frequencies are encoded onto the magnetic strip of Shoo Tag. The energy field of the wearer expands these frequencies thereby creating a non-toxic barrier against pests that lasts up to four months. Tags are available for flea/tick and mosquitoes. See more at: www.Shootag.com and check with your holistic vet.
Natural sprays are available at: www.Cedarcidestore.com – all-natural sprays for your pet and your yard to control mosquitoes, fleas and ticks.
www.Mercola.com – look under pets, they have a natural spray available.
I make a spray up from Young Living Therapeutic Essential oils that I have used on myself and my pets for years. If you would like the recipe please email at Irishacres@new.rr.com.
Diatomaceous earth can be used to control fleas on your pet and in your yard. You can also mix this powder in with their food to help control internal parasites. Azmira puts this out in a 3 pound container called ParaClear.
The bottom line is the healthier your pet’s immune system is the less likely he/she will be to attack fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. Consider a species appropriate diet and natural health care alternatives to protect your pet from serious auto-immune diseases.
Posted in Natural Health Care | 107 Comments »
March 5th, 2011
Based on the hits and responses to the posts on essential oils people are looking for information. I had a question posted if I am making this up. No! Everything I post I have used on my dogs, my foster dogs and clients dogs who have come to me to help with medical conditions. One of my dogs is a nine year old golden who I have had since a pup. She is raw fed and recently come through a very serious health challenge with an essential oil protocol we put together for her. I will post more on that later. She is my first agility dog and has qualified to go to the AKC National Championships this year. The following post is some of the things I do to keep her healthy:
Essential Oils and Supplements
For Older Dogs
Sulfurzyme Powder – For joint issues, inflammation, skin conditions, overall good health. Sulfurzyme combines wolfberry with MSM, a naturally occurring organic form of dietary sulfur needed every day to maintain the structure of proteins, protect cells and cell membranes, replenish the connections between cells and preserve the molecular framework of connective tissue. Also supports the immune system, liver, circulation and proper intestinal function and works to scavenge free radicals.
Longevity Oil or Capsules– Contain oils that are the most powerful antioxidants known. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals and lessen the day-to-day oxidative damage. Contain ingredients that score 1,500,000 on the ORAC scale.
NingXia Red – Give daily for optimum health: Small pets ¼ tsp a day; Medium pets ½ tsp a day and Large pets 1 tsp a day. Extra large pets 1 Tbs. a day.
Lemon Oil – 3 drops in food daily to help gently detoxify.
PanAway – For any joint pain issues. Massage directly on location.
Thieves – For any type of infection. Give orally in gel caps 5-6 drops two X a day.
AromaSiez – for stiff, sore muscles from too much exercise. Combine with OrthoEase Massage Oil.
These are just some basic suggestions. As you use and become familiar with the oils and supplements you can customize them to you dog’s specific needs. Remember, the oils work on animals the same way they work on people. Become familiar with their properties and you will have an unlimited range of all-natural options to choose from!
In addition to this I will be taking my oils for Raindrop Therapy with me to address any sore muscles or injury.
It is important to note that these are all Young Living therapeutic essential oils. These are not oils found in your health food store. For more information on the oils please contact me at the email address on my website.
Posted in Essential Oils, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
March 3rd, 2011
What is Kefir?
Kefir is simply cultured milk! To make Kefir, a Kefir culture is added to milk before the fermentation process begins. Traditional style Kefir has a tart, refreshing taste, and is usually effervescent, owing to the presence of carbon dioxide, which is an end product of the fermentation process. Fermentation is among the oldest methods of food preservation and used by mankind, and is one of the easiest and best ways of preserving food! After the fermentation process, the lactose is virtually eliminated, and so even lactose-intolerant people and pets can enjoy the benefits of Kefir.
Why eat Kefir?
Kefir is often said to have ‘magical properties’ and is documented to have aided treatments in disorders such as Tuberculosis (Trum Hunter, 1973), Intestinal stomach diseases (Koroleva, 1988), Chronic constipation (Koroleva, 1991), Allergic reactions (Koroleva 1991), the control of High Cholesterol (Gorski, 1994) Lactose Intolerance (Rosell, 1932; Trum Hunter, 1973), and the list goes on and on.
We have over 400 species of bacteria living in our intestine and many of those bacteria aid in the digestion process. These helpful bacteria are referred to as ‘friendly bacteria’ or ‘healthy flora’ and without them; the act of digestion cannot take place properly. Good healthy greatly depends upon the quality of intestinal micrflora! Unfortunately for us, the western society foods that we eat (cooked and processed!) do nothing for our intestinal microflora, resulting in the rapid and nearly complete depletion of these ‘friendly bacteria’. Millions of people, as a result of our poor eating habits, are suffering from poor digestion, and most of them may not even realize that this is the cause of their symptoms of less-than-optimal health! Many sufferers of allergies, headaches, fatigue, skin problems, and many more serious illnesses are simply sufferers of poor nutrition and/or digestion!
So, what can we do to help correct this?
The best, and tastiest, answer, for young and old, for you and your pets is Kefir! Kefir aids in the restoring of a healthy microflora by replenishing the ‘friendly bacteria’ essential for good digestion! Unlike yogurt, most kefir cultures contain multiple strains of strong friendly bacteria, as well as live “food” for these bacteria in the form of FOS – simply meaning that your gut generally gets more “goodness” from Kefir than from yogurt!
This article was written by Kelli Johnson, who was a natural breeder and Mysti, the golden on our website, is out of one of her litters.
Kefir can be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. It comes in a variety of flavors and the dogs love it. I give about 1 TBS a day on their food to help keep their guts healthy. I also use it to make smoothies for myself. If your dog has been on any type of antibiotic this is a must.
Posted in Raw Food | 69 Comments »
February 28th, 2011
I wanted to share this with all of you. If you are here reading these posts you probably have at least one pet you cherish. I have owned Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. I currently have five that share and bless my life. Two are rescued dogs that came to stay and two are from wonderful breeders who also embrace natural health care for pets. I compete with them in agility, we are working on our tracking titles and soon will venture into the obedience ring. They are a joy to train and work with. The fifth is a current foster dog that has been with us since November to work on some health issues and is ready for adoption.
As you can tell, I am passionate about natural health care for myself, my family and my dogs! The following affirmation was shared in a class that I took several years ago by an amazing holistic veterinarian who is also passionate about her work. I share it when I teach natural healing and pet health classes:
I am responsible for my health and wellbeing and for that of my animals in my care. I will become a knowledgeable advocate for myself and my animals in all realms of life. I understand that life, healing and health are always changing, requiring me to learn and evolve in order to be an effective advocate. I will not abdicate this repsonsibility to any person or doctor. The health of my animals rests in my hands.
It is the purpose of this blog to share many of the things I have learned in my journey for natural health care for my dogs and my family.
Posted in Natural Health Care | 9 Comments »
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Copyright © Irish Acres Pet Health. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy
|
|
Virtualtech
Web Site Design and Promotion, Inc.
|
|
|
