Holistic Pets

There’s absolutely no doubt that the bond between humans and pets are incredibly strong. Pets are our loyal friends and confidants as well as having an almost magical ability to calm us.

With that in mind, it’s hardly surprising that most pet owners are keen to ensure their pet’s health and happiness – innocent animals that are completely at our mercy, dependent on us to understand when they’re sad, ill or just in need of a cuddle.

Owning a pet is a huge responsibility. You’ll need to provide any necessary vaccinations and other treatments and pet medicines (fleas, worms, supplements etc) that may be needed as well as the correct nutrition, a place to sleep, enough exercise and a huge chunk of your time.

While we all dream of owning a pet with a healthy coat, shining eyes and plenty of vigor, the fact is that every year a vast number of pets become ill and in need of veterinary care. If, for any reason, you believe you’re not in a position to be able to afford such treatment for the sake of your pet’s health , then it would be advisable to reconsider owning a pet.

As a responsible pet owner it’s imperative that you visit your vet whenever there’s reason to suspect all may not be well with your pet’s health and certainly before buying pet medicines online or by mail order. A vet is the only one with the knowledge and experience to prescribe the correct treatment and dosage. Always ask yourself whether you would risk taking a medicine that could have serious side effects without first discussing it with your doctor? You probably wouldn’t. Please don’t give them to your pet either – you could soon find yourself regretting it.

If, after discussing medication with your vet, you decide to buy your pet’s medicines online or by mail order, it’s extremely important that you check the expiry date as many medicines quickly lose their healing properties once expired.

As long as you know your dog well enough to notice any signs of illness and ensure he receives adequate veterinary treatment, there’s no reason why you and your pet shouldn’t spent many happy years together.

Many kinds of poisons from many sources can kill cats. Sometimes the poisoning occurs when a cat consumes a toxic substance. Other times it is the result of a cats self-grooming and ingesting poison. For example, a cat may walk through a rodent tracking powder, a petroleum product or antifreeze and consequent consumption of the toxic substance occurs during grooming. Still other poisons may be absorbed through the skin, particularly petroleum-based chemicals or coal-tar products.

Unless the cat has been seen consuming the poison, it may be difficult to diagnose the cause as rapidly as is desirable. Prevention is the best means of protecting your cat.

The following information is by no means complete as it lists some of the more common poisons. It is presented as an alert to keep toxic substances away from cats and to help you assess a situation in which you think your cat may have been accidentally poisoned.

Dangerous Household Products Here are examples of potentially toxic products found in the home:

Cleaning and household supplies: ammonia, bleach, cleaning fluids and disinfectants, drain cleaner, soaps and detergents, mothballs and matches.

Garage items: gasoline, kerosene, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze. Many cats are attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze and lap it up when it is spilled on the ground or not properly stored.

Agricultural products: insecticides, rodenticides, herbicides, fungicides, snail or slug bait, worm and mollusk toxicants and plant growth hormones.

Workshop supplies: paints, paint thinners and removers, wood preservatives and mineral spirits.

Medicines: aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol and other similar products), diet pills, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, laxatives and rubbing alcohol.

Cosmetics deodorants, hair coloring, nail polish and remover, permanent wave lotion, suntan lotion, hair spray and perfumes.

Other hazards: scrapings from lead-based paints; contaminated food; water from toilet bowels, especially if chemically treated.

To protect a cat from accidental poisoning, store products found around the home in inaccessible containers, properly dispose of empty containers and clean up spills promptly.

Dangerous Plants The list of plants potentially dangerous to cats is long. Some of the more common plants that can be poisonous to cats are:

Dieffenbachia, philodendron and caladium cause throat irritation and will burn the throat just as much coming up as going down. Do not induce vomiting and seek veterinary treatment.

English ivy, iris, amaryllis, daffodil and tulip (especially the bulbs) cause gastric irritation and sometimes central nervous system excitement followed by coma and, in severe cases, death. Induce vomiting and seek veterinary treatment.

Foxglove, lily of the valley, oleander, monkshood and larkspur can be life threatening because the cardiovascular system is affected.

The different species of yew are also toxic because they affect the nervous system. If any of these are ingested, get the cat to a veterinarian immediately. Remember you are dealing with a life-threatening emergency.

Poison By Inhalation Cats are vulnerable to the following gases if inhaled: ammonia, carbon monoxide, fumes from heating or cooking gas. A cat suffering from poisoning by inhalation may exhibit weakness and dizziness, breathing difficulties, and bright red lips and tongue. Get the cat into fresh air as quickly as possible. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential.

Symptoms General symptoms of poison by ingestion include pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or collapse. Burns around the mouth, lips and tongue indicate that an acid or alkali such as drain cleaner or paint thinner has been swallowed or the cat has suffered an electric shock. An abnormal odor to the cats breath, coughing or bloody vomitus occur when a petroleum product such as kerosene or gasoline has been swallowed. If the poison is an acid, alkali or petroleum product, do not induce vomiting.

If the cat has swallowed medicine, cosmetics or other noncorrosives, an emetic such as syrup of ipecac can be used to induce vomiting.

Mental confusion, vomiting and eventual collapse are symptoms of antifreeze poisoning. All cases of antifreeze poisoning require immediate treatment by a veterinarian if the cat is to survive.

Insect Bites and Stings Insect bites and stings can cause a mild or severe reaction depending upon the potency of the venom and the sensitivity of the victim. Spider bites most often occur on the front paws or face of the cat. Swelling and reddening of the skin occur at the site of the bite.

Gastrointestinal upsets and nervousness are indications of a toxic reaction and the cat should receive immediate treatment by a veterinarian.

Inquisitive kittens and young cats are most often the victims of bee or wasp stings. The sting site will be red and swollen and the stinger may still be in the cats skin. The stinger should be carefully removed and cold compresses applied to the wound site. A paste of baking soda and water will help relieve irritation and itching. Severe cases may require treatment by a veterinarian. If the sting is in the mouth, swelling within the mouth, tongue or throat can block air passages. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential.

The Dangers of Rodenticides Rodenticides pose another danger to cats. Most rodenticides are formulated for use as toxic baits or tracking powders. When well designed, the baits are attractive to rodents and have little potential for direct ingestion by cats. However, secondary poisoning may result when a cat catches and ingests a poisoned rodent.

Tracking powders are a direct threat to cats. The powders adhere to the paws and the coat of the cat and are ingested when the cat grooms itself. If you observe your cat ingesting tracking powder, consult your veterinarian immediately. If, for any reason, this is not possible, check the package label for information concerning antidotes. If the label does not provide this information, induce vomiting with 1/2 teaspoon ipecac syrup and bathe the cat to remove tracking powder remaining on its body.

Many of the rodenticides contain anticoagulant (blood thinning) chemicals. When ingested by a cat, life-threatening hemorrhaging can result. Signs of anticoagulant poisoning include weakness, blood in the urine or stools, bleeding gums and nose bleeds. However, it can take several days before any of these signs are apparent, depending on the quantity ingested and the time period of ingestion. If your cat exhibits any of these signs, prompt treatment by your veterinarian is essential.

Another danger for cats is a new class of rodenticides, which cause organ failure and death through soft tissue calcification. The kidneys, heart and lungs are vulnerable to calcification. Signs of this kind of poisoning vary with organs most affected. They may include twitching, nausea and vomiting blood. The best protection against rodenticide poisoning is to use safety baits in a rodent control program. If tracking powders are used, keep all pets and children away from the area.

Pet Natural Spring: A Large Investment for Your Cat’s Health

If you are very much engaged about the Health and nutrition of your cat, then you will not recall doubly about investments in something that will watch her welfares. As such, maybe it is high time that you should think about realise her a pet Fountain. This equipment is the best matter that you can purchase to meet the need of your cat for clean and fresh water.

A pet Jet will also help tempt your cat to drink water more oft, especially if she ignores the water bowl. Because cats need a Some amount of water to stay decently hydrated, making a pet Fountain for her is definitely a stride towards her better Wellness.

Playing Your Cat’s Need for Water

Water is the most grave affair for any graphic being! The water need of your cat is more than the dry food that she consumes every day by two and a half times. This volume of water is doubled or tripled during other times like when the windward is very hot or when you have submitted your cat to some uses. If your cat is also wet, then she will also need more water. So a pet Fountain is really a very smart purchase if you want to find out the healthy state of your cat by Taking On her water exacts. Because a pet Fountain allows fresh, clean, and falling water every day, then your cat’s water exacts will be met at all times.

Other Advantages of a Pet Fountain

While having smooth water for your cat may already be enough of an vantage when it comes to amazing a pet Jet, going clean water could already be considered a Great bonus. There are pet natural springs that come with water percolates like gray, which will work by getting rid of the impurenesses in the water that you are giving to your cat. Although there are other pet natural springs that bear these filters out for the re-circulation of the flowing water, there are others that really have these water filters out for the sole function of picking water. So this intends that your cat will be amazing potable water from your pet Natural Spring.

Another Extensive thing about buying a pet Spring for your cat is that its Rewards are not set only for your pet. This is because there are also Rewards to corrupting this equipment that have-to doe with you. For one, you no ampler have to leave your faucet slightly open the whole day to check the constant dripping of water. This is because there are pet natural springs that bear some mechanics that will work at providing an endless flow of filtered water for your cat. This intends that you will be good on your water expenses as well.

So if you have already determined to get a pet Outflow for your cat, then you should visit Pet Depot Online now. Here, you will be able to take your pick from the option of high character pet fountains that are available for fair prices.

If you’ve noticed that your dog seems to have trouble urinating, you may be wondering, “Do dogs get urinary tract infections?” The answer is yes, they do. In this article, you’ll learn how to spot an infection, treat it quickly and prevent your dog from ever having to suffer from one again.

One of the signs that your dog has a urinary tract infection (UTI for short) is pain during urination. This is just one of many possible symptoms. There are also others: excessive drinking of water, refusal to drink water, lack of appetite, blood in the urine, straining during urination. What is going to alert you to the possibility of an infection is a change in your pet’s urination habits, so it is important to pay attention to how your pet behaves when things are fine.

While the question, Do dogs get urinary tract infections is important to follow up on by making a visit to the vet, you should also be aware that your vet is likely to prescribe antibiotics if your dog is diagnosed with a UTI. Although most people think that antibiotics are completely safe, there are a few issues that you should be aware of. First, antibiotics have side effects that can make your dog’s condition worse. Second, they do not heal what cause the UTI, instead, they just suppress the symptoms until the body can heal itself. Obviously, this does not always happen. Also, since bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, this is another reason why using them can lead to recurring infections.

An alternative treatment choice is to consider natural remedies. Unlike drugs, they have no side effects. More importantly, they actually heal what causes a UTI in the first place by restoring the proper pH to the bladder (so that bacteria dies and bladder crystals dissolve) and also reduce pain, swelling and inflammation quickly.

It’s important to know that although there are many natural remedies on the market, not all are created equal. Since you want your dog’s urinary infection to heal quickly and completely, look for the best supplement that money can buy. Get a supplement that contains clinically proven ingredients, including Uva Ursi, Berberis, Cantharis and Staphysagris. These herbal ingredients are gentle, but effective and can be used to treat as well as prevent infection. They a smart and effective answer to the question: do dogs get urinary tract infections?

Two other things that you can do in terms of prevention is to make sure that your dog eats healthy kibble (watch out for preservatives, dyes, and other chemicals). Put a little bit of water in the kibble, so your dog is not always eating dry food. Also make sure that your dog always has access to fresh, clean water and can urinate as needed.

The following checklist may help you identify the need for additional nutritional support to assist with repair and maintenance for healthy hips and joints:

Limps after exercise

Reluctant to climb stairs

Reluctant to jump into vehicle

Stiff for awhile after getting up from rest

Tires easily while exercising

Reluctant to engage in exercise

Rests more often than usual

Bites or licks at certain joints on legs

Is uncomfortable when touched on hips or tail and other joints

Does not seem comfortable when squatting to eliminate waste

Doesn’t want to sit or stand; prefers to lie down

Liquid Formula for Enhanced Absorption:It is important to find a pet supplement offering the advantage of a LIQUID formula that contains high-potency glucosamine and chondroitin as well as other liquid antioxidants and nutrients.   Any specialized liquid formula should NOT contain binders, fillers and coatings needed in solid tablets and capsules which can cause allergies and sensitivity, and which slow down the absorption process.

Pet Supplements should have these high-potency impact ingredients:

Glucosamine HCL/Sulfate – Building block for cartilage and joint repair

Chondroitin – Support for synovium fluid and lubrication

MSM – Protein synthesis and enzyme function for tendons and cartilage

Type II Collagen – Formation of cartilage and anti-inflammatory support

L-Proline – Synthesis of collagen (protein) for formation of connective tissue

Vitamin C – Collagen support for ligaments, bones and joint repair

Manganese, Boron, Calcium and Magnesium – Healthy bone formation and joint flexibiliy

These Active Ingredients have been used effectively to support the formation and maintenance of new cartilage, tendons and ligaments in humans and animals. The inclusion of Type II Collagen and L-Proline is hard to find in the marketplace but it is extremely vital plus it aids in cartilage, connective tissue and anti-inflammatory support. Vitamin C and Grape Seed Extract as well are other key minerals which assist muscle and bone repair and maintenance of healthy hips and joints.

Middle-aged and Older Dogs: These ingredients have been shown effective in supporting cartilage formation for dogs showing the effects of osteoarthritis (bone density/strength challenges). The nutritional support also assists with joint mobility, comfort and bone/tendon strength. As dogs age, the maintenance of healthy joints is essential since constant wearing down of cartilage needs repair.

Young Dogs: Veterinarians recommend glucosamine in younger animals as it delays the onset of joint damage while dogs participate in daily activities of running and jumping. These ingredients are effective in maintaining healthy joint function especially for dogs who experience cartilage reduction due to physical stress from strenuous physical activity and nutrient deficiencies. In addition, chondroitin promotes synovium fluid health to promote joint flexibility.

In conclusion, you should make sure that the pet supplement you select provides veterinarian recommended, ultra pure and high-potency nutrients to support healthy hip and joint mobility for active dogs and delivered in an all-liquid design is formulated for enhanced absorption and performance for:

 Joint Mobility

Cartilage Health

Joint Comfort

Bone & Tendon Strength

Basic High-Potency Ingredients:

Glucosamine

Chondroitin

MSM

Antioxidants

Type II Collagen

You want the best for your pet and so do we!

Loss of dog bladder control is usually a symptom of something else: a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, an injury or aging. something that can happen if your pet has a urinary tract infection or is getting old. Although your pet’s inability to control its bladder may be inconvenient, it is not your dog’s fault and requires attention right away. In this article, you’ll learn what to do to help your regain voluntary control of the bladder.

The first thing you need to do is get your pet to the vet for a conclusive diagnosis. If it is determined that your dog does not need surgery, he probably has a condition (such as an infection or struvite crystal) that will require bladder control medicine. While most vets will prescribe antibiotics for these conditions, this is not always the best way to go. This is because antibiotics are drugs and all drugs have side effects. Some of the side effects may actually make your dog’s suffering worse.

It’s also important to know that antibiotics do not heal the conditions that cause a dog bladder control problem in the first place. Instead, they just suppress the symptoms, giving the body time to heal itself. Of course, this does not always happen, which means that your dog could become the victim of recurring infections or bladder stones.

Instead of giving your dog prescription drugs, do what hundreds of thousands of pet owners are doing and use a natural remedy instead. These remedies will suppress the symptoms and also get to the source of the problem and heal what caused the condition in the first place. In addition, they also restore the pH of the bladder which will prevent bacteria and stones from forming. Since they are gentle enough to use every day, they can be a lifesaver for dogs who are prone to bladder control issues or who are having urinary problems due to aging.

Since all natural remedies are not created equal, look for one with ingredients like Uva Ursi and Cantharis which are herbs that have proven to be effective for dog bladder control issues. Also, make sure that the company stands behind their product with a money-back guarantee.

To ensure that your dog stays healthy once healed, make sure your pet gets plenty of fresh clean water and has easy access to the backyard. Feed your dog healthy, organic kibble with no chemicals or byproducts because these ingredients can alter the pH of the urine.

Dog bladder control issues do not have to be painful and humiliating for your pet or a source of irritation for you. Follow these simple steps: get your pet to a vet to determine exactly what is wrong and treat your faithful friend with a natural, safe and effective dog bladder control medicine that will help him recover quickly and completely.

Two years ago, you simply could not resist those two brightly colored parrots in the pet store window. What a mistake! Now you want a new home for your parrots, and are thinking of selling them. If you place a short ad in the local newspaper, how will it read?

1. Virginia parrots for sale
2. Quaker parrots for sale

There are many ways to advertise, even with as few words as that, but do you really need to “sell” your parrots? Might you find a better home through parrot adoption?

What Is Parrot Adoption?

Parrot adoption is very much like baby adoption. Those who have parrots they cannot care for offer them to people who want a parrot. The adoptive parrot owners may not be able to afford the initial outlay, or they may simply want to give a good home to a parrot that must be relocated.

Parrot adoption does not always mean “free” parrots. The term is also used for inexpensive parrots purchased from former owners.

Finding Interested Homes

Parrot adoption requires good homes, of course, but how do you find them? One way to begin is to place a newspaper ad, as you would if you were selling. You might write: “Parrots for adoption” or “Quaker parrots for adoption to good homes” or “Adopt a parrot”.

If you are unsuccessful with ads, try contacting a parrot rescue foundation or parrot adoption organization. They may be able to put you in contact with someone wanting parrots like yours. They may have someone on their waiting lists.

Evaluating Prospective Homes

”But it’s just a parrot!” you squawk. Not really. It is a creature that will live many years. During those years, it will need health, safety, love, and happiness. You will want to try your best to provide those by asking a few questions of prospective owners – getting to know them a little. You will want to try, also, to ensure your parrot will not have to move soon again. For proper parrot adoption, begin with these questions.

1. Why do you want a parrot? One wrong answer is, “My child has been begging for one, and I think it would be cool to have a talking pet.”

2. Does anyone ever smoke in your home? Smoking can kill a parrot very rapidly, and you want assurance that yours will go to smoke-free homes.

3. What other pets do you own? Parrots have natural predators, and will not be safe or healthy if they share a home with one of them.

4. Can you afford to take the parrot to a veterinarian when necessary? Your parrots have a long life expectancy, and will need occasional visits to a veterinarian.

5. For other important questions, you should contact a parrot adoption group and get advice.

Delivering an Adopted Parrot

Once you have found good parrot adoption homes, you will want to do your best to make the transition smooth. Take your parrot’s cage (It’s his home, and you won’t need it.), his toys, perches, and the food to which he’s accustomed. Take time to get the parrot settled before you leave him. Be available to visit now and then during the first week, if asked.

The Other Side of Parrot Adoption

The flip side of parrot adoption is the adoptive family. Parrot adoption can be preferable to purchasing a baby parrot from parrot breeders or a pet store.

Your parrot will be far less expensive, in most cases. It will likely have a cage and accessories, as well, which will save money and time for you. Parrot adoption lets you skip the toddler and adolescent stages, and your bird will likely have a vocabulary, with knowledge of how to add to it. In some cases, an adopted parrot will know some tricks. It will be accustomed to human handling and – hopefully – enjoy it.

The Downside of Parrot Adoption

The upside outweighs the downside of parrot adoption, but there are things you should know.

1. How does the parrot behave? Parrot adoption is often initiated by an owner who does not want to deal with behavioral problems. The parrot may have become aggressive: biting and screeching. You will want to observe the parrot in its home before agreeing to adopt it.

2. Has the parrot ever been injured or struck with anything? You will have a lot of work to overcome this problem and get the parrot to bond with you.

3. Is the parrot healthy – and can you talk to his veterinarian? If the parrot has never been taken to a veterinarian, there may be hidden health concerns. If he has been taken, the veterinarian will be able to tell you about potential problems. Any prospective parrot adoption should include consideration of health information.

Finalizing Parrot Adoption

When you adopt a parrot, you adopt a long-term commitment. It will be your responsibility to care for the bird throughout its lifetime. It will give you affection, and will expect the same from you. Before you enter into parrot adoption, think it through carefully. Then enjoy your parrot fully.

WHILE reaching for toys, a child in a remote Bolivian village touches a window ledge in the adobe hut and comes in contact with an insect, the vinchuca, or its excrement. Later, the child suffers from inflammatory swellings, symptoms of Chagas disease. A man, sleeping on the dirt floor of his dwelling, is bitten by the same type of insect. Years later he has an advanced case of Chagas disease. From the southern border of the United States to the central regions of Argentina, it is estimated that 12,000,000 people suffer from this affliction. It is called one of the biggest problems of Latin America.

What, then, are the symptoms of Chagas disease? Once contracted, how can the disease be alleviated? What preventive measures might be taken to avoid contracting the affliction? Particularly if you live in the tropical countries of South and Central America, it would be good to know the answers to these questions. Even if you do not live where Chagas disease is most prevalent, there are sound reasons to learn more about it.

The vinchuca is one of the principal carriers of the dreaded Tripanosoma cruzi, a tiny one-celled parasite, which multiplies in humans and animals, and which is the cause of Chagas disease. It was in 1908 that Charles Chagas discovered the parasite for the first time in the intestine of the vinchuca. But the disease can also be transmitted to humans from dogs and cats.

Central and South American countries have participated, separatedly and also jointly, in studies surrounding Chagas disease and its eradication. In Bolivia, studies have intensified since the 1940s. According to one Bolivian investigation, 1,800,000 people in that country of nearly 5,000,000 inhabitants are exposed to the possibility of vinchuca bites, and 600,000 actually have been bitten.

Harm Done by the Vinchucaand Chagas Disease

These studies have revealed that some vinchucas do not carry the parasites, and those that are carriers do not infect a person by the original bite. When filling its body with blood from the victim, a carrier insect may leave its excrement near the puncture. It may drag its posterior part over the bite, thus introducing the parasites into the victims bloodstream. Or, at times, the victim immediately scratches the bitten area and infects himself.

Why is the victim not aware of the vinchucas presence? This insect is active at night. Often it drops from the ceiling onto the sleeping victim. It sticks its sharp, daggerlike snout into the victim, usually around the eyes, where the skin is very soft, or into the supple skin of the neck. The bite is painless. Therefore, without the victims being aware of what is happening, the vinchuca may suck off a small quantity of blood. Later, however, an inflammation develops around the bite. The eye may even swell shut. There may also be a glandular swelling.

Once in the bloodstream, the parasites reproduce rapidly. In the first few weeks, the parasites are detectable by laboratory analysis. Afterward, because of the production of antibodies in the victim, the parasites multiply less rapidly, making it more difficult to detect the disease by medical examination.

In the final stages of the illness, the parasites cause troubles ranging from heart failure to liver and spleen infections. Harm may be done to the lymph nodes and the brain. The victims blood pressure drops. Sometimes the parasites get into the heart. As they begin to multiply and grow, they cause clotting or stoppage in the blood vessels. Worse still, they burst the veins. Some victims suffer from enlargement of the large intestine. Digestive and elimination problems may result.

Certain victims of Chagas disease develop these serious reactions later on in life. The progress of the disease has been likened to a great iceberg in water. One small part of the total mass can be seen above the water, while the greater portion is submerged. It is the same with the symptoms of Chagas disease. Quite often the victim and his physician are unaware of the patients having contracted the disease, and the effects usually show up 15 to 20 years later, when the disease is much more advanced.

Chagas disease is not necessarily contagious. If one member of the family has it, all will not necessarily contract it. The principal way in which the disease is transmitted is by the bite of a carrier of the parasite. However, babies born of diseased mothers can get it, as the parasite penetrates the mothers placenta and reaches the developing infant during the last months of pregnancy. It is also known that a suckling baby can get the parasite through the milk of a diseased mother.

The vinchuca is not limited to crawling, but can also fly. It bites animals, too, even though it lives mainly on human blood. Interestingly, poultry, doves and other domesticated birds do not develop the disease. Nevertheless, where there are animals or birds in or near the home, there is an open invitation for bloodsucking insects to enter the house and thereafter introduce Chagas disease to the occupants.

Another Danger Blood Transfusion

The book Usted y la enfermedad de Chagas (You and Chagas Disease) points to another danger the passing of parasites from donor to patient by way of a blood transfusion. According to the publication Tropical Diseases Bulletin, Chagas disease, along with African trypanosomiasis (African sleeping sickness), yaws and filariasis (hairlike worms from two to three inches [5 to 8 centimeters] long), is transmittable through blood transfusions. In areas where blood is donated indiscriminately by the public, serious danger exists of contracting Chagas disease. Hence, those who obey the Bibles law to abstain from blood, both animal and human, are more likely to remain in good health.

It should also be noted that international travel can quickly transport disease-carrying parasites from Latin America to any other part of the globe. Hence, those who avoid blood transfusions are, to that degree, not running the risk of being infected by the disease.

Prevention

To date, there has not been a successful way to cure this disease completely. Drugs often produce problems that are nearly as bad as the malady itself.

Some suggest internal and external use of herbs in order to counteract the effects of the disease. Herbs and blossoms of the spilanthe plant are recommended. It is also suggested that one eat oceanic plants like kelp, as their iodine content can be assimilated by the organism. Herbs appear to lessen the effect of the disease, but they do not eliminate the parasites.

Cleanliness is the most important preventive measure. This is because the vinchuca makes its home in the dark, unhygienic areas of houses made of mud, straw, palm leaves and other rudimentary materials. Therefore, it has been suggested that new structures be made of cement, plaster and lime to eliminate possible habitats for the vinchuca. Also, the regular cleaning of houses and outbuildings is of utmost importance.

Charles Chagas, the discoverer of the insect carrier, recommended the destruction of the vinchuca as the only solution for eliminating the disease. Since there is no satisfactory cure for the infection, many are in agreement with this. At present there are insecticides that destroy the vinchuca in all its stages, including the egg stage.

The term heartworm dog is really asking for information on heartworms in dogs or canines. We will discuss causes and treatment.  You are intelligent to know that heartworms can be serious in dogs as can the side effects of standard treatment. Imagine being able to effectively treat your dog and save a few dollars at the same time.

WHAT CAUSES HEARTWORMS IN OUR PETS

Heartworms are caused in our pets when our pets are bitten by mosquitoes which have become infected with heartworms from biting other infected animals.  A number of animals can be host to heartworms. They include dogs, cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and even humans.  When the infected mosquito bites our pets the mosquito deposits larvae into the skin of our pets. The larvae are from the parasitic roundworm known as dirofilaria immitis. The larvae migrate to the heart and within 6 months they hatch or transform into worms that look like pieces of thread. The heartworms can in found in the chambers of the heart and in the two main arteries leading to the heart (Pulmonary artery and vena cava). From there they move to other parts of the body including the lungs and liver.

HEARTWORM SEASON

Heartworm season runs from one month before mosquito season until one month following mosquito season.

HEARTWORM SYMPTOMS |HEARTWORM DOG

Breathing difficulties Coughing Vomiting Weight loss Collapse Convulsions Sudden death Tiredness Decreased appetite Heart failure Difficulty exercising Bloody sputum Loss of consciousness Abnormal lung sounds May take years after initial infection to show up

HEARTWORM DIAGNOSIS |HEARTWORM DOG

Vets will normally perform the test Usually diagnosed with a blood test

TREATMENT ONCE YOUR PET HAS HEARTWORMS | HEARTWORM DOG

Several drugs were given by veterinarians in the past but not so much today. Today the treatment usually involves injecting a drug containing arsenic. The injection is given in the lower back. Two injections a day for two days is the normal treatment.  After the injections your pet will be prescribed rest in order to absorb the dead heartworms.

EARLY STAGE HEARTWORM TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

There are many commercial products used to treat heartworms in the early stages where they can be killed. These medications contain pesticides which are used to kill the larvae before they hatch into adult heartworms. Common ones include Revolution, Heartgard, Interceptor, and Iverhart.

ALTERNATIVE PREVENTION FOR HEARTWORMS | HEARTWORM DOG

Because many veterinarians now recognize that long term use of preventative medications can cause side effects in our pets many people are turning to alternative methods to prevent heartworms. The methods will help overall but you should discuss using them with your vet.

Provide a healthy diet. Many people are now avoiding commercial pet food and feeding their pets natural vegetables, fruits, and raw meat Boost your pet’s immune system Strengthen your pet’s heart and circulatory system In areas where heartworms are prevalent think about regular de-worming Black walnut extract and garlic are also being used as preventatives Prevention is much cheaper than treatment at the vet’s office

Many current medications produce harmful side effects in our pets. That is why a growing number of concerned pet owners have decided to use natural remedies. Many natural remedies work quite well and save you a bunch of money in the process. Read on through the last paragraph and find out home remedies secrets that are safe and effective.

Heartworm pills for dogs are used to both prevent and treat heartworms in our canine friends. You are smart enough to know that you need to take some action to prevent heartworms in your dogs and to treat your dog if they do come down with heartworms. What you may not know is that there are some harsh side effects that go along with treatment and prevention using traditional medications. We will discuss both. Imagine being able to treat effectively and avoid the side effects.

WHAT CAUSES HEARTWORMS IN OUR PETS

Heartworms are caused in our pets when our pets are bitten by mosquitoes which have become infected with heartworms from biting other infected animals.  A number of animals can be host to heartworms. They include dogs, cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and even humans.  When the infected mosquito bites our pets the mosquito deposits larvae into the skin of our pets. The larvae are from the parasitic roundworm known as dirofilaria immitis. The larvae migrate to the heart and within 6 months they hatch or transform into worms that look like pieces of thread. The heartworms can in found in the chambers of the heart and in the two main arteries leading to the heart (Pulmonary artery and vena cava). From there they move to other parts of the body including the lungs and liver.

Today’s commonly used heartworm medications are used to kill larvae that are already in our dog’s bloodstream and thereby prevent the larvae from becoming heartworms that can invade our dog’s organs and heart.

HEARTWORM PILLS FOR DOGS | PREVENTION

Revolution – This is a broad spectrum medication that has been reported to be the top of the list for dogs. This medication also protects your dog from flea infestations. Interceptor – This medication is reported to prevent heartworms, hookworms, whipworm, and roundworms. Heartgard – This medication is widely available that prevents heartworms, hookworms and roundworms. Very few side effects have been reported with this medication. Iverhart Max – This medication is used for heartworms and tapeworms. There do not seem to be many reported side effects with this medication.

Active ingredient in Heartgard and Iverhart  is ivermectin. The active ingredient in Interceptor is milbemycin and the active ingredient in Revolution is selamectin oxime. These medications work as a preventative in the sense they are actually using chemicals to kill off heartworms in their early stages. So while some say they are preventative they are also treatment.

VETERINARY ADVICE ON HEARTWORM PILLS FOR DOGS

Because heartworms are such a serious issue you should not administer heartworm medication without consulting your veterinarian. It is just that simple. While you can also use home remedies to fend off heartworms infesting your pets these should be used at the advice of your veterinarian.

Many current heartworm pills for dogs produce harmful side effects in our pets. That is why a growing number of concerned pet owners have decided to use natural remedies. Many natural remedies work quite well and save you a bunch of money in the process. Read on through the last paragraph and find out home remedies secrets that are safe and effective.