Holistic Pets

Anxiety and panic attacks can be one of the most frightening experiences in a person’s life. Rapid heartbeat, a feeling of losing control, fast breathing, sweaty hands, shaking uncontrollably. All of these are symptoms of anxiety.

Just the thought of these symptoms can trigger some people to have a panic attack. It is certainly not ideal to live life in fear, but neither is having to spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars on medication. So what’s the alternative? Natural treatments, such as meditation, exercise, certain herbs, and relaxation techniques.

First take a look at what is causing the anxiety issues. Figure out if there’s a way to eliminate those trigger aspects. If there is a way to get rid of the cause without too much of an impact on daily life, that’s great. If there’s no way around the situations that cause the anxiety, find a treatment that works best for you.

People have been meditating for thousands of years. Meditation is not only used for religious purposes. It can also be used to center oneself and relax the body. By sitting quietly in one spot and focusing on the breath, the body relaxes and can relieve the symptoms of an anxiety attack.

By shifting the mind from focusing on the trigger point to focusing on the rhythm of breathing a calming effect takes over. It may be difficult at first to stop thinking about the issue, but with practice and focus, it will become easier.

It might also help to silently repeat a mantra to yourself. For example on the inhalation say to yourself “calm”, “slow” and on the exhalation say to yourself “breathing helps”. Focusing on words in addition to the breath requires more attention and helps to keep your mind on the task at hand.

Exercise is also a very good way to overcome anxiety and panic attacks. If the feelings of anxiety are becoming more noticeable, that is when it’s time to take action. Before the attack gets too overwhelming, stop whatever activity is going on and go for a short walk around the block. Sometimes that’s all it takes.

A regular exercise routine can help stave off the effects as well. Exercising just three or four times a week can release the pent up anxiety before those feelings take hold and can manifest into a full blown attack.

There are certain herbs that have been said to help relieve anxiety. The herb kava has been known to calm the mind without affecting a person’s clarity, even though it is a tranquilizer. It can be taken in either pill form or be brewed as a tea.

Valerian is sold as a nutritional supplement and works best for anxiety if it is used over a long period of time. To help with mild anxiety California poppy is a good herb. It also helps with relieving pain. Hops, which is commonly used in brewing beer, can help with restlessness and sleep disorders.

The herb passion flower is helpful in relieving worry and insomnia as well as anxiety. Lemon balm can be brewed as tea or may be used as aromatherapy. It has mild sedative properties and has a calming effect. The herb chamomile not only helps with relieving anxiety, it can also help to settle upset stomachs.

An odd sounding alternative is catnip. This herb which is usually used in cat toys can relieve tension headaches and help with falling asleep.

Some relaxation techniques that can help with anxiety and panic attacks are: writing in a journal, reading a book that holds your attention, drinking a cup of hot tea (herbal or not), taking a hot bath with scented candles.

Or just plain laughing is a good way to relax. Laughing increases endorphin level and decreases the amount of stress hormones. Sometimes there’s nothing to do but laugh. Calling up a good friend or relative and letting the conversation relieve the worries and troubles of the mind is also a good relaxation technique.

Rather than being in a drug-induced stupor to relieve anxiety, the better alternative is one of the natural remedies mentioned above. Remember to check with a doctor before starting any type of exercise routine.

Although the chances of your catching swine flu are relatively low, it is still possible you could become infected. But if it does happen, don’t lose hope. The virus can be fought with natural immune system boosters and antiviral substances. During this pandemic, natural remedies can help you recover from even a deadly disease.

Furthermore, proper natural remedies can help prevent you from catching this disease, or any disease, in the first place. By strengthening your immune system, you increase your body’s ability to fight disease, viruses, and bacteria.

One way to boost your immune system is to take large amounts of Vitamin C. This antiviral vitamin can block the enzyme known as neuraminidase, which is needed by a virus in order to reproduce. There are anecdotes of people surviving the Spanish Flu by drinking large doses of Vitamin C. The elderly should take Vitamin E along with Vitamin C, to enhance the effects of the vitamin.

Garlic is common in most kitchens and it can also be used in the fight against the swine flu epidemic. It is an efficient natural antiviral herb. It is most potent when freshly crushed. Garlic must be consumed within one hour of crushing. Recommended dosage is two to three cloves per day. Organic garlic is more potent and effective than non-organic garlic. But remember that it can burn the stomach when taken in large amounts, so its a good idea to eat it with bread or yogurt.

My favorite way of taking large amounts of garlic, to fight normal colds and flues, is by spreading butter on toast and then adding garlic slices, or crushed garlic.

Possibly the best alternative to the medical drugs, Tamiflu and Relenza, is Green Tea. This is a highly effective antiviral. It decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a, and inhibits the reproduction of neuraminidase as well. Best of all, it is natural, and therefore it doesn’t have any of the harsh side effects that synthetic drugs have. If you want to use Green Tea for this purpose, remember that what you find on the shelves of a grocery store will probably be relatively ineffective. Organic varieties, particularly those grown for health or medicinal purposes, are the best.

Another antiviral you can get is Resveratrol. It comes from the Japanese Knotwood root, from red grapes, and from raisins. It causes your cells to stop manufacturing viruses. There are supplements available in liquid form, for better absorption, and it has no toxic effects.

Apple juice is an antiviral which is available just about everywhere. But if you want to have the best results, try making your own, in a juicer. You should include the skin and pulp. This is more powerful than simply using commercially-available apple juice.

Scuttellaria, better known as Skullcap, is an herb that can be taken as tea. It is an effective antiviral that is also used as a mild tranquilizer. Just like other natural antivirals, it inhibits the reproduction of neuraminidase.

Cat’s Claw, or Uncaria Tomentosa, boosts one’s immune system as well as decreasing the production of cytokine TNF-a. Your white blood cell count can be increased with this treatment. Although no toxicity is noted, however, it should not be used by children and pregnant women. This is due to its damaging effect on the DNA of growing cells.

There are still plenty of other natural treatments for the swine flu that you can find in your cupboard. You don’t necessarily need to drink synthetic medicines, or get vaccinations that can be harmful to your body.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute medical advice. If you are ill, you should consult your doctor.

Do you want to gain quick relief from all the itching and burning? Do you want something that is safe and effective? With no side effects? Then this herbal cure for yeast infection might just be your best solution.

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No one is safe against these infections. It can affect anybody. It can affect women, men, children, babies, the elderly, and even dogs and cats. Symptoms may vary slightly, but oftentimes, the telltale sign is a white cottage cheese like discharge. This natural remedy can be used by everybody.

And it destroys not just the yeast roots, but also its spores, so that you will be completely free from it after the treatment. This is one of the benefits of this route that make this course unique. It’s interesting to note that many of the over the counter medications and even some prescription drugs are only able to kill off the roots. When the spores aren’t killed off also, it leaves you in the position of a possible re-infection. And at the same time, it provides the environment for a drug resistant strain to be born. That would not be good for you if there was an outbreak!

Click for 12 Hour Natural Cure For Yeast Infection

And also, just because a certain remedy is labeled natural, does not make it completely safe for you to use. There are some that people will recommend, but they have inherent risks. For example, olive leaf extract is shown to be very effective. However, a possible side effect is fatigue due to the substance overtaxing your liver which could result in excess poisons leaking out into your system and thus making you sick. If you were to use this, you would have to use it with great caution and of course, it is not be used with children or the elderly.

The best herbal cure will be one tailored to your body’s needs. Because everyone reacts slightly differently to different products. There are people who have written guides to help you in this matter. These people have done their research and have found that certain combinations of common remedies can be very effective and yet are very safe to use. So safe in fact, that pregnant women and babies and children are able to use it with no ill effect.

Click for 12 Hour Natural Cure For Yeast Infection

UTI or urinary tract infection is very common both in humans and in dogs. The symptoms of this disease in your pets are very much the same as it is in you. More often than not, this disease is caused by bacteria such as the E. coli. If left untreated, UTI may develop into a disease of the kidney that could otherwise cause death to your pet.

To treat UTI, dogs are usually given antibiotics. But sometimes, the high dosage of antibiotics can produce some side effects on your pets that are equally harmful. To rid yourself of thinking about these side effects and to keep your pet from suffering from it, you can try giving natural herbal medicines to your dog for urinary tract infections.

Garlic can be given to dogs suffering from urinary tract infection. Just sprinkle garlic bits in your dog’s meal so that your pet can ingest them. Garlic proves to be very effective in removing infections inside the body. This spice can also be added generously on your pet’s food if you feed home cooked meals for your dog. Aside from garlic, Echinacea is also an effective herbal remedy for dogs with urinary tract infection. The effects of this herb are very much the same with that of garlic.

Rosehip is another herb that can help a lot. It contains irons, which is needed by dogs with UTI. Rosehip also has high levels of Vitamin C, which could alleviate your dog’s condition. Uva Ursi and alfalfa can also be given alternately. These herbs are known to reduce the acidity in the dog’s urine and treat the irritations present in the mucosal lining of the dog’s stomach in the process.

Yarrow and buchu are two herbs that can cure urinary tract infections in dogs. Yarrow can increase the vitality of dogs, while serving as a tonic for their nervous system and the blood. Buchu, on the other hand, can cleanse the blood of your dog, ridding it of impurities that can form into bladder stones. Buchu is in fact, the best natural remedy for UTI in dogs.

These herbal remedies for urinary tract infections are the best complement of the antibiotics given by the veterinarian to speed up the dog’s healing process. However, you should inform the vet with your decision to give natural remedies to your pets before actually administering them. Some chemical antibiotics may cause unexpected reactions with the natural elements of these herbs. Aside from the vet, herbalists may also give sound advises when it comes to these matters.

More than herbs, your dog need to maintain a healthy diet to keep the urinary tract infection from recurring. Treating your dog from UTI is just the first step. You should make sure that you give your dog the diet that it needs on its recovery stage and several years thereafter. Urinary tract infections in dogs can strike again if you’re not particular about your dog’s diet. If you dog had suffered from UTI, a total lifestyle change is necessary. You should start giving your pet foods that are natural, with absolutely no preservatives added.

There are several types of cat bladder infection treatments. In this article, we will look at the two most often used treatments with the pros and cons of each, so you can choose the best option for your pet.

When your cat is suffering with a bladder infection, it is essential to get treatment right away. Left unchecked a urinary tract infection can cause the kidneys to shut down and lead to other serious complications. This is why a good treatment for cat bladder infection is essential.

If you suspect that your cat has a urinary tract infection, you should take your pet to the vet for a diagnosis that will tell you exactly what is wrong. Sometimes what looks like a bladder infection could be something else. If your vet determines that your pet has an infection, your pet will most likely be prescribed antibiotics.

Although antibiotics can work to clear up an infection, you should be aware that these drugs can have side effects that can increase suffering and worsen your pet’s condition. This is because antibiotics just suppress the symptoms in the belief that the body will heal itself. Obviously, things don’t always work this way, which is why antibiotics can sometimes have a negative outcome. People sometimes forget that antibiotics are drugs and drugs do not heal. In addition, all drugs have side effects.

This is why many pet owners are taking their pet’s health into their  hands, just as they have reclaimed their right to choose alternative medicine for themselves. This brings up the other option  for cat bladder infection treatments which are natural remedies. These remedies are made from 100% herbal ingredients that  have been proven effective in treating pet urinary problems. They have no side effects and will not interact negatively with any other meds that your cat might need to take.

Natural remedies are an effective treatment for cat bladder infection because they actually get to the cause of the problem and restore the proper pH to the bladder which kills bacteria, soothes inflammation, reduces pain and allows the body to heal completely, so the infection does not recur. This is what you want: something that gets to the cause, rather than just suppressing the symptoms.

Make sure to look for quality, natural cat bladder infection treatments that contain proven herbs like Uva Ursi, Staphysagris and Berberis.  These herbs are very effective, but gentle at the same time. This means that they can be safely used for treatment and daily prevention, especially for elderly cats or those who tend to have bladder issues.

In addition to giving your cat a remedy, make sure to feed healthy food that contain quality ingredients. Cats are carnivores and need protein. Stay away from products that have byproducts, cheap grain fillers and chemicals as these can alter the pH of the bladder. Also, make sure your cat always has a bowl of fresh clean, filtered water because this helps keep the bladder healthy and flushes toxins from the kidneys.

If you’re anything like me, you want only the best for you loving pet. Your dog is a family member that depends on you for his health and well-being. And you probably spend a lot of money at the vet on medications that sometimes work but many times do not. If you think about it, you’ll realize we can all use some really good dog health tips. Especially if these tips can show us an alternative to the chemicals we find in regular dog medicines.

And what about the safety of the over-the-counter pet products you buy from your vet or at the pet supply store? There are certainly many reasons to be concerned, especially if you stop to read the long list of almost unpronounceable ingredients contained in those products. Today, more and more loving pet owners are looking for a better way and are finding that one of the best dog health tips is to switch to more healthy, natural treatments for their dog.

Okay, you’re probably thinking that natural remedies are going involve running all over town trying to find exotic and expensive ingredients. Well, you’ll be surprised to discover that many of these natural home remedies for dogs are quite easy to obtain. For example:

Do you have garlic in your kitchen? Most people do and use it to cook up tasty dishes but never consider that it is an effective flea repellant. Does you dog ever get ear infections or ear mites? Got some mineral oil, olive oil, or almond oil? These are also common household items that can be used to treat these problems and also a variety of other problems. You must have some oats around the house. They are excellent for adding to your dog’s bath water if he has problems with allergies and as a result spends a lot of time itching and scratching. Just a handful of oats added to your dog’s bath water can help to soothe his irritated skin. Does your dog have problems with his feet? Here’s one both you and your dog can use: Epsom salts. Just add a bit to some water and then soak your dog’s feet. Remember to take care that he does not drink the water. Do you treat your own skin with Vitamin E? It’s a common way to soothe irritated and dry skin. If your dog suffers from irritated skin as a result of allergies, try applying a bit to his skin to see rapid improvement.

We look for dog health tips because we all love our dogs and want only the best for them. My tip to you is to consider healthy, all-natural treatments for your dog. There are safe, easy and inexpensive solutions to many health problems that may plague your dog.
For more information on herbal pet remedies and natural pet cures visit my website at http://www.naturalcuresforpets.info.

Herbs have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes, and many herbs have proven to be very successful in relieving and healing many health conditions, especially health issues that involve the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, there are a number of herbs that can be helpful to GERD sufferers in providing natural heartburn relief treatments.

The following is information regarding six different herbs that can be used to for acid reflux relief and other related digestive conditions. The information provided will explain how these herbs may help to subdue acid reflux symptoms when taken orally, as well as if there are any warnings you should be aware of before you consider taking any of these natural remedies:

Chamomile (alternative names: Genuine chamomile, Anthemis nobilis, German Chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, Goberneradora)

Chamomile has been used for centuries for its sedative and antispasmodic effects. When taken orally, chamomile can induce relaxation and has a calming effect, which has also led some to believe that it has anti-anxiety effects. Nevertheless, despite its possible anti-anxiety effects, chamomile also appears to be antispasmodic which might be linked to one of its chemicals, bisabolol. The antispasmodic properties make it gentle and soothing to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and may be beneficial at relieving minor GI symptoms including: gas, nausea, and stomach cramps

Furthermore, chamomile has also been found to provide soothing relief to irritated tissues in the nose, throat, and mouth, which can be beneficial to those who experience acid reflux in the throat.

Other studies suggest that chamomile may also have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects, all of which could benefit GERD sufferers who have inflammation within their esophagus (esophagitis). However, no study has yet successfully proved this theory.

Side effects- Vomiting can occur if very high doses of chamomile are ingested. Chamomile can also cause allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to daisies, as chamomile is part of the daisy family.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Chamomile may interfere with the blood’s ability to clot and may cause drowsiness. Therefore there is the possibility that it might interact with the following medications and herbs:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets
- Drugs that promote sleepiness
- Sedative herbs (I.E. saw palmetto, ginger, danshen, devil’s claw, garlic, gingko, papain, red clover, etc.)
- Herbs that effect blood clotting (I.E. hops, kava, valerian, catnip, and st. john’s wort, etc.)

You should refrain from taking chamomile if you are pregnant because its antispasmodic effects could cause the uterus to relax, which could potentially lead to miscarriage.

Dandelion root (alternative names: Irish Daisy, Blowball, Leotodon taraxacum, Taraxacum officinale, Canker Wort, Lion’s Tooth, Puffball, Wild Endive)

Dandelion root has been used orally for years to treat various health problems including arthritis, gout, diabetes, cancer, liver problems, and heartburn. Dandelion has also been used to combat indigestion because its bitter flavor encourages the production of saliva which can be beneficial to GERD sufferers, as saliva helps to neutralize acid. In addition, it is believed that dandelion root may have some anti-inflammatory effects.

Side effects – Although unlikely if side effects are felt an upset stomach would be the most likely side effect of dandelion root.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Dandelion may have an effect on blood sugar, work as a diuretic, and increase acid production. Therefore it may interact with the following medications:

- Diabetes medications for lowering blood sugar
- Diuretic drugs
- Acid blocking medications such as antacids, H2 receptors, and proton pump inhibitors.

Individuals who should avoid taking dandelion root are those who are prone to or have gallstones or other problems with their gallbladder. Dandelion can irritate the gallbladder by increasing bile production. People with diabetes should also avoid taking this herb as it may affect their blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that not everyone who suffers from acid reflux and GERD can take dandelion root to treat their symptoms because there is a risk that this herb will increase stomach acid production, which can cause symptoms to become more frequent or worsen. Furthermore, if you have stomach ulcers or gastritis (stomach inflammation) you should not take dandelion root.

Meadowsweet (alternative names: Queen of the Meadow, Bridewort, Filipendula ulmaria, Dropwort, Lady of the Meadow, Spirea ulmaria, Spirea)

Meadowsweet can be used to help treat stomach problems such as diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. However, the effectiveness meadowsweet has on these GI conditions is unknown. Meadowsweet also contains a mild degree of anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for individuals who suffer from gout or other inflammatory conditions.

Aside from assisting in the relief of stomach issues, meadowsweet has also often been used to provide slight relief from symptoms caused by respiratory conditions such as congestion, fever and pain related to colds and similar ailments.

Side effects – Meadowsweet can cause constriction to occur in the muscles of the small airways of the lungs, known as a bronchospasm. This side effect could worsen asthma or trigger asthma attacks. Another side effect that has been reported by some individuals who take meadowsweet is nausea.

Drug interactions and other precautions – Meadowsweet could increase the risk of side effects in Narcotic analgesics (I.E. morphine), and may affect the blood’s ability to clot and interact with medications and herbal remedies such as:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets
- Aspirin
- Herbs that effect blood clotting (see chamomile above)

Pregnant women, individuals with asthma, and those who have allergies to aspirin should avoid taking meadowsweet.

Cats claw (alternative names: Uncaria guianensis, Peruvian Cat’s Claw, Uña de Gato, Samento, Saventaro, Uncaria tomentosa)

Cats claw is comprised of many active chemicals and substances that are beneficial to the immune system. Due to its antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, this makes it extremely beneficial for treating individuals who suffer from various health conditions.

Cats claw has also been used to help individuals who suffer from gastrointestinal problems find relief for conditions including gastritis, and gastric ulcers.

Side effects – Some side effects that have been reported include stomach discomfort, nausea, headache, and dizziness. You should not take cats claw if you are allergic to plants in the Rubiaceae or Uncaria family.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Cats claw has the potential to enhance a person’s immune function which could cause it to interact with drugs designed to suppress the immune system.

Cats claw was traditionally used as a form of contraception, and when taken in high doses may prevent pregnancy. Therefore, it should not be taken by women trying to become pregnant, pregnant women, or women who are breast feeding.

Individuals who have had organ transplants should not take cats claw due to the potential effects it can have on the immune system. In addition, it may cause unpredictable results in those who suffer from autoimmune disorders such as Crohn’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis.

Licorice (alternative names: Gan Cao, Sweet Root, Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice contains a substance known as glycyrrhizin which reduces the activity of two particular enzymes that contribute to the removal of PGE (prostaglandin E) from the body. Stomach conditions including gastritis, colic, and ulcers are associated with low levels of PGE. Therefore, licorice can actually increase the levels of PGE and allow more PGE to circulate through the body. The increase of PGE can reduce the production of stomach acid and promote the production of stomach mucus. Thus, licorice is often used to treat ulcers and many other stomach problems.

In addition to stomach conditions, licorice has also been found to be beneficial for treating respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, as well as for suppressing coughs, soothing sore throats, and has the potential to boost immune system function.

Note: the Licorice that is being referred to is the herb and not licorice candy. Licorice candy does not typically contain much of the active chemical present in the true herb, and, therefore, is not likely to provide the same positive or negative side effects.

Side effects – There are many side effects associated with licorice, but the severity of these side effects differ depending on how much licorice is ingested. The more common and less severe side effects of licorice when a single recommended dose is taken for longer than six weeks may include: headache, fatigue, muscle spasms, increased blood pressure and swelling.

Large doses of licorice may cause a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, which causes the following symptoms: excessive thirst, increased urination, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, low potassium levels, weight gain.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Licorice can increase the time required in order for blood to clot, can cause possible potassium deficiency, can interfere with medications used to suppress tissue inflammation, and mimic the female hormone estrogen. Therefore, licorice can interact with the following medications and natural remedies:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets
- Corticosteroid drugs (drugs that treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, etc.)
- Diuretics (“water pills that can cause potassium loss)
- Estrogen replacement therapy or oral contraceptives
- Testosterone therapy
- Aspirin
- Laxatives (can promote loss of potassium)
- Herbs that effect blood clotting (see chamomile)
- Herbs that deplete potassium (I.E. aloe, senna, rhamnus frangula, rhamnus purshiana, rhamnus cathartica)

Pregnant women and women who are breast feeding should not take licorice, as it may increase the risk of premature labor or miscarriage. Other individuals who should avoid taking licorice include:

- Men with prostate cancer
- Women who suffer from uterine fibroids, endometriosis, cancer of the breast, ovaries, or uterus.
- Individuals with congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, liver condition or kidney disease.

Slippery elm (alternative names: Elm, American Elm, Japanese Elm, Indian Elm, Red Elm, Sweet Elm, Moose Elm, Ulmus rubra, Ulmus fulva, Winged Elm)

Slippery elm is recognized for having significant mucilage, a substance that swells and becomes slippery without dissolving in fluids. Mucilage is believed to help people find relief from coughs, and a variety of other symptoms involving the respiratory system. Furthermore, mucilage is also recognized for its positive effects on the GI tact, and it antioxidant effects that have the potential to decrease intestinal inflammation.

Slippery elm provides the mouth, esophagus, and GI tract with a coating. The slick residue it leaves in the GI tract can help alleviate sore throats; pain associated with stomach ulcers or colic; and can also help relieve inflammatory bowel symptoms. Additionally, slippery elm may encourage mucous production in the GI tract, which helps to protect the stomach and intestinal linings.

Side effects – When taken orally, slippery elm has no reported side effects. However, it may cause an allergic reaction in sensitive people when slippery elm products are touched, or pollen from the tree is breathed in.

Drug interactions and other precautions- There are no known interactions between slippery elm and medications or other herbal products. Nevertheless, due to the fact that the mucilage may coat the stomach and intestines, the mucilage could potentially delay or block the absorption of nutrients or drugs. Therefore, it is recommended that slippery elm be taken orally a minimum of 2 hours before eating or ingesting medications.

Pregnant women should not take slippery elm.

What you should know before taking any herbal products: You should not take any herbal remedy to treat your acid reflux or GERD symptoms without first consulting your health care provider. This is especially important if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or have another health condition and are taking medications. Furthermore, you must ensure that you take herbs according to the recommended dosage prescribed by a professional or as noted on the product information label on the herbal packaging.

Remember to speak to your doctor should you have any questions or concerns, and immediately stop taking any herbs should you experience an allergic reaction. Allergic reaction symptoms include:

- Skin: redness, rash, itching, or hives
- Eyes: red watery or itchy
- Nose: blocked, runny or sneezing
- Lungs: tightness in chest, wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing
- Stomach: nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Swelling: face, tongue or throat.

Contact your doctor or pharmacist should you experience an allergic reaction or any other side effect to any natural heartburn relief treatment.

Dogs, just like humans have their off days; they can mope around, spend more time sleeping than they usually do, go off their food or avoid human contact all together. Usually, they revert to being their usual selves, with their blue mood going just as quickly as it appeared, however, if their low moods persists, it is something to be aware of and take seriously.

Dogs experience a deep and varied emotional life, and we as dog owners often witness the expanse of these emotions throughout our dogs lives. Because dogs share a similar neurological make up to humans, they to are capable of experiencing a series of complicated emotions, such as depression.

The symptoms of canine depression are similar to the symptoms experienced by humans. Typically the dog will show some of the following common symptoms:

Lethargy

Loss of appetite

Weight loss, due to refusing to take food

Loss of interests in play activity

Withdrawal from people

Clinging to owner

Restlessness

Again, as with humans, dogs can experience depressive symptoms for a whole host of reasons, however, depression is usually a reaction to a stressful event, or a imbalance in the dogs neuro chemical make up, usually referred to as clinical depression.

In the case of an imbalance in the dogs neuro chemistry, medication can be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of depression in the dog, by restoring the chemical balance.

Reactive depression can be due to a number of reasons that could include any of the following:

The loss of a human friend or the dogs owner

The loss of a canine friend

Illness

Trauma

Bad treatment

Weather changes

Environmental changes, for example, change of house or location

Loss of attention due to a new addition to the family, such as a baby

Separation from it’s owner for long periods during the day

Boredom due to being left alone

Lack of exercise and mental stimulation

Depression is a challenge to diagnose, especially to the untrained, therefore, if you have a dog who is exhibiting the symptoms outlined above, it would be sensible to take your dog to the vet, in order that a correct diagnosis of your dogs condition can then be made, as a physical illness or condition could be the root cause of the symptoms, and not depression.

If the diagnosis confirms your dog has depression, then there are a number of ways it can be treated, depending on it’s origin. If your pets depression is due to a chemical imbalance, then your vet may recommend a course of medication, such as Prozac.

If your dog is experiencing depression due to a stressful event, then a programme of rehabilitation will help him overcome his strong feelings, and a return to his normal state of being. Begin by identifying the root cause of your dogs depression, then work from this point. If your dog is depressed due to the loss of a canine friend, you may want to consider getting a new friend for him. If you have a dog who has eperienced bad treatment from a previous owner, and has developed depression as a result, then it’s time for you to help your dog renew his faith in human kind.

Spend time with your dog playing his favourite games, or alternatively, take regular walks to your local park, or some other of your dogs favourite out door places. Giving your dog a chance to stimulate his senses, especially his favourite sense-his sense of smell, will give him respite from his depressive feelings.

Try not to leave your pet alone during the early stages of his recovery. If you have a friend or neighbour who is willing to spend time with your dog, for a while during the day, then take advantage of the kind offer, alternatively you could contact a pet sitting service.

If you are not totally happy with giving your pet medications prescribed by the vet, such as Prozac, then you may want to try more natural remedies. You may want to try using some or all of the following, to help restore your pets emotional balance, naturally:

Bach flower remedies

Flower essence’s have proven to be of benefit to humans experiencing all manner of negative emotions. Flower essences are also as safe and beneficial in helping depressive symptoms in dogs.

Herbal remedies

St. Johns Wort is one herbal remedy proven to help depression in humans, that is also safe and effective treating depressive symptoms in dogs.

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils is another safe and totally natural way to help your pet. Oils can be dispersed around the room with the use of a burner or diffuser. Your dog can then be left to inhale the oils calming and restorative properties.

Alternatively, you can use massage along with your essential oils. Touch alone will have the effect of promoting your dogs natural ‘feel good’ chemicals. However, when massage is combined with essential oils, the healing process will accelerate.

Trent Consultants News: Lowers blood pressure, encourages exercise, improves psychological health— these may sound like the effects of a miracle drug, but they are actually among the benefits of owning a four-legged, furry pet.

This fall, the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction (ReCHAI) will explore the many ways animals benefit people of all ages during the International Society for Anthrozoology and Human-Animal Interaction Conference in Kansas City, Mo., on Oct. 20-25.

“Research in this field is providing new evidence on the positive impact pets have in our lives,” said Rebecca Johnson, associate professor in the MU Sinclair School of Nursing, the College of Veterinary Medicine and director of ReCHAI. “This conference will provide a unique opportunity to connect international experts working in human-animal interaction research with those already working in the health and veterinary medicine fields. A wonderful array of presentations will show how beneficial animals can be in the lives of children, families and older adults.”

Earlier this year, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), one of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), co-hosted two workshops with The WALTHAM® Centre for Pet Nutrition, a division of Mars Incorporated, bringing together leading experts to discuss the benefits of human-animal interaction in childhood. With support from a grant from NICHD and sponsorship from WALTHAM®, the conference will continue this discussion.

Marty Becker, known as “America’s Veterinarian” and a veterinary contributor to ABC’s “Good Morning America” for more than 12 years, will give a special presentation at the conference called “The Power of Love: the science and the soul behind that affection-connection we call The Bond.”

Other conference discussions will include ways that human-animal interaction benefits humans and animals, new facets of human-animal interaction, and ways to apply new human-animal interaction knowledge to their fields. Some of the presentations will highlight the special role of companion animals in facilitating reading and physical activity in children and adults.

“Pets are of great importance to people, especially during hard economic times,” Johnson said. “Pets provide unconditional love and acceptance and may be part of answers to societal problems, such as inactivity and obesity.”

ReCHAI sponsors several projects that attempt to further the understanding and value of the relationship between humans and animals. In 2008, ReCHAI sponsored the “Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound and Stay Fit for Seniors.” In the preliminary program, a group of older adults were matched with shelter dogs, while another group of older adults were partnered with a human walk buddy. For 12 weeks, participants were encouraged to walk on an outdoor trail for one hour, five times a week. At the end of the program, researchers measured how much the older adults’ activity levels improved.

“The older people who walked their dogs improved their walking capabilities by 28 percent,” Johnson said. “They had more confidence walking on the trail, and they increased their speed. The older people who walked with humans only had a 4 percent increase in their walking capabilities. The human walking buddies tended to discourage each other and used excuses such as the weather being too hot.”

NICHD is interested in building upon existing research and spurring more studies involving children and adolescents.

“The few studies that have been conducted suggest that pet ownership may have multiple health and emotional benefits for both children and adults,” said James Griffin, a scientist at NICHD. “But there has been relatively little rigorous research documenting these benefits and examining how and why they occur. By providing support for this conference and additional research studies, we hope to generate some answers.”

The Human-Animal Interaction Conference will bring together people around the world working on similar projects as ReCHAI, Johnson said. These people include nurses, physicians, veterinarians, social workers, psychologists, physical and occupational therapists, and activity directors.

“Today, pets are in more than 60 percent of American homes,” said Charlotte McKenney, assistant director of ReCHAI. “Research involving human-animal interaction can be extremely beneficial. More people are incorporating pets into their leisure time, such as making them part of their exercise routines, taking them to dog parks and bringing them to family events.” Adapted from materials provided by University of Missouri-Columbia.

Trent Consultants Dog Care and Training is all about helping pet owners enhance their relationships with their pets. Our professional pet-care services includes boarding, grooming, training, now available in Korea. When you’re at work, your dog can be playing and getting the attention he needs at Trent Consultants. Dogs that come for day care have opportunities to play throughout the day in one of our three fenced outdoor play areas with our doggie playgroups. You can visit us at www.trentconsultant.com. Email us info@trentconsultant.com.

There are 100 different forms of arthritis identified by the AMA, and there are almost as many natural arthritis treatments for those who desire to treat arthritis naturally.

The name arthritis means “joint inflammation” – and this can come from wear and tear as in osteoarthritis, or from immune deficiencies as in rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis affects approximately 3 million Americans in different degrees of severity and there are a number of ways to treat the symptoms.

Natural arthritis treatments are treatments which come 100% from the environment, and they are virtually free of side effects unless you happen to be allergic to the particular plant.

Check with your physician whenever trying a new product, just to be safe.

Natural arthritis treatments include plants, minerals and vitamins.

Within the past 20 years, natural remedies have become more widespread as the public discovers alternatives to prescription medication.

For many years people have treated arthritis, as well as many other diseases, with natural remedies and ingredients found in the house.

Some natural arthritis treatments that are easily obtained and have been proven to work both recently and over the years.

You can try one or all of them until you reach the results that you desire. There is no hazard in mixing natural arthritis treatments.

• Alternate cold packs for 20-minute intervals.

• Soak affected joint in Epsom salts and warm water for 20 minutes.

• Take antioxidants – Vitamin C and E, lipoic-acid to improve immune system and circulation and to fight free radicals that occur.

• Take Omega – 3’s to support cardiovascular system and circulation.

• Use glucosamine and chondriton to promote joint and cartilage growth.

• Shark cartilage has also been associated with cartilage growth.

• Exercise keeps joints loose and improves circulation.

• Get plenty of rest for joints to recover.

• Herbs to reduce pain are cat’s claw, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne.

• Herbs to promote rest and calm are valerian root and melatonin.

More remedies can be found on the Internet for treating arthritis with natural treatments.