“My parents have passed away, and I don’t have a lot of family, so we wanted to make sure Lulu Bell was taken care of no matter what happened,” explained Jerry. “It actually relieved a lot of stress. At least we know we have set aside a little bit of money, some instructions and there is a person willing to take care of her.”

Many pet owners assume that they will outlive their beloved pets, but that isn’t always the case. Unfortunately, when animals get left behind, they sometimes wind up in a local humane society where they could be euthanized. A pet trust ensures the animal will continue to receive care and housing even after the death of the pet’s human companion.

The Wilkerson’s pet trust includes about $2,000, simple instructions for care, and entrusts the animal to a cousin who already loves Lulu. The money is primarily to help cover any large expenses that Lulu might incur, like veterinary bills, after the Wilkerson’s deaths.

“It’s interesting to note that very few states allowed pet trusts until 1990. Since then the concept has really taken off, and now more than 42 states allow pet trusts, including three states that passed legislation in 2009. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were allowed in all 50 states ultimately,” says Adrian Hochstadt, assistant director of State Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

“Today, pet trusts are still relatively unusual in practice – most people choose to will a pet to a trusted family member,” he says. “Pet trusts are one of the fastest growing segments of animal law today.”

Pet trusts can vary according to a person’s needs, and most pet trust laws allow people to will a certain amount of money toward the care of their pet after they are gone.

Missouri was one of the first states to have pet trusts. Gregory Dennis, an attorney in Missouri, says that the state has allowed pet trusts in some form since 1973.

Dennis advises that veterinarians should be made aware of trusts when they treat an animal. If a pet is covered by a trust, it’s the trust that will likely be paying the bill and the trust also may stipulate what kind of veterinary care the animal should receive.

Dennis also notes that bequests that haven’t been carefully drafted and, for example, leave exorbitant sums of money to a dog or cat, could be subject to legal challenges. People may argue that excessively large trusts are a sign a person was not mentally competent at the time the trust was drafted.

“Many state’s pet trust laws include provisions that allows the courts to reduce a pet trust to a reasonable amount if it’s excessive,” says Linscott R. Hansen, an Illinois attorney who helped draft the Illinois pet trust law, which passed in 2004. “I advise people interested in setting up a pet trust to put into a trust just what the pet needs, and that’s enough.”

Hanson explains that pet trust acts allow people to create a trustee to oversee funds and another to care for the animal, which is a good way to help ensure the proper care of the animal. Dennis adds it may be a good idea to include a clause requiring two veterinarians to separately determine when a pet covered by a trust should be euthanized, and perhaps leave any remaining funds in a trust to a charity after the pet’s death.

Michael Cathey, head of the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), said that his charitable organization does receive bequests from animal lovers who want a part of their estate to go toward protecting and treating pets. The AVMF funds disaster response efforts for pets, veterinary scholarships and animal health studies, and donors can and do bequest their donations to specific programs. For example, if a dog owner lost a dog to cancer, they may elect to bequest some money to the AVMF to go toward animal health studies, Cathey explains.

“A donor’s wishes are always honored as long as those wishes fit in well with one of our programs,” Cathey says. “If we accept a gift, we will put that money toward whatever program the donor has requested. We’re really trying to help people understand that this option is available to them.”

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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(ARA) – When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, Richard Colar’s neighborhood was flooded with 13 feet of water. He lost his home and lived in a FEMA trailer for over three years following the storm. Even more devastating for Colar was that he was forced to flee without his beloved pet, a Siberian husky named Princess.

Miraculously, veterinarians located his lost dog weeks after the storm. The dog had been evacuated to Delaware. Due to the work of many volunteers, Colar and his family were among the lucky Katrina survivors who had their pets returned to them.

“It was so important to me to get my dog back, and I was so thankful,” he says. “Veterinarians saved my dog. I never knew that there were so many animal lovers in the world.”

Colar’s story illustrates why it’s so important for people to be prepared for natural disasters. This means planning an evacuation, not just for you and your family, but also your pets, livestock and horses.

The American Veterinary Medical Association offers a brochure on the subject, Saving the Whole Family, as well as an informative video with helpful instructions to help people evacuate with their pets in a disaster.

“During disasters it’s not unusual for hundreds of thousands of pets and livestock to be displaced. Many times this is the result of the fact that the owners have not made a thorough evacuation plan,” explains Dr. Heather Case, head of disaster preparation at the AVMA. “That’s why we urge everybody to make disaster plans today that include every member of the family, including those with four legs or wings, fur, scales or feathers.”

Case explains that in order to evacuate with an animal, pet and livestock owners need to have something in which to carry the animal. With pets, this would be a pet carrier that is large enough for the animal to spend a few days in comfortably. Even if you relocated to an emergency shelter that is willing to accept a pet, the animal will have to spend most of its time in that carrier or cage. For cats, the cage will have to be big enough for a small litter box.

If you are a livestock or horse owner, you’ll need access to a livestock carrier that can be towed by truck. Many times, farms will form cooperative evacuation networks as a cost effective way of ensuring that everybody’s animals are evacuated.

The AVMA also recommends that pet and livestock owners put together emergency kits. These kits should include enough food to last a week, any medications the animal requires, written prescriptions and other documentation, a photograph and identification information for the animal and, most importantly, a telephone list of feed suppliers, family members and veterinarians in the area where you expect to end up.

Proper identification is another important consideration. Consider preparing disaster tags for your pet’s collar. These should include your cell phone number, but also the telephone number for an out-of-town family member or friend, and perhaps the name of a hotel where you expect to evacuate. With this information, rescue responders will have a better chance of locating you if they rescue your pet.

The best kind of identification is imbedded microchip identification. Even if you put an informative tag on your pets collar or your horse’s halter, if it becomes separated from your animal the results can be disastrous. Microchips are embedded under the skin of an animal between the shoulder blades or on the neck and can be read with a scanner, ensuring the animal is never without ID.

For more information on this and other issues, visit www.avma.org or www.avmatv.org for a disaster preparation video.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., with two of her dogs, including Blake (left), in 2004 not long before Blake died of sarcoma of the scapula. They are seated on Blake's favorite couch, where he died.

(ARA) – When Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., discovered one of her Great Danes had cancer, she was faced with a difficult decision, but she felt fortunate that her veterinarian, Dr. Alice Villalobos, was familiar with veterinary hospice care and introduced her to the concept. 

“I knew Blake, my dog, was old enough that I didn’t want to go through any heroic measures to try to keep him alive. I wasn’t going to consider chemotherapy. Dr. Villalobos explained that we could keep him as pain free as possible until the end,” Brennan explains. 

“He passed very peacefully thanks to Alice being there with me,” she continues. “He died literally in my arms. I had moved an old couch outside for him, so he could sleep on it. One night he came in and was looking at me in a strange way. I laid down with him, and his breathing was very labored so I called Alice. It was his end.” 

Hospice care — physical and physiological care for the wellbeing of the terminally ill — has a long history in the United States. But hospice care for animals is a very new concept. Villalobos treated Blake’s end-of-life discomfort with pain medications and homeopathic medicines. 

Veterinary hospice is a philosophy that is really in its infancy. In 2000, the movement gained national attention at the annual convention of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) where Villalobos spoke on hospice care. The first international symposium wasn’t held until March of 2008 at the University of California-Davis, and the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC) is currently being established. 

Dr. Amir Shana, owner of the Compassionate Care Veterinary Clinic in Chicago, has been offering hospice care to animals for well over a decade. Shana provides house calls for patients who are too sick to make it into his office and also runs a hospice facility, where animals can be boarded. About half of his practice is in pet hospice services. 

“Hospice is a philosophy of care, it is also a program of care and in certain cases it is an actual place where patients are being cared for,” Dr. Shana explains. 

For Villalobos, the new movement really recognizes something that has been happening for many decades. “Veterinarians have always offered care to animals at the end of life,” explains Villalobos. “Until now, it has not been a recognized philosophy, and it hasn’t had a name.” 

Villalobos says that one of the most important aspects of this new movement is that it’s seen as a philosophy that is accessible to all veterinarians so they can better serve their patients. And it doesn’t require that pet owners give up hope, she adds. Pet hospice care can be incorporated with measures taken to attempt to save the pet’s life. It means simply that the animal’s needs are taken care of with pain control and other efforts to reduce suffering. 

Villalobos says that one of the biggest hurdles in veterinary hospice care is dealing with the shock that owners feel when discovering that their pet has a condition that may precipitate end-of-life care. 

“A decade goes by and it is quick for us, but it is the lifespan of a pet. It’ takes a lot of compassion to help people to understand it. It sneaks up on them. We have people who are in shock that their four-footed, beloved companion is now geriatric,” Villalobos says. “The philosophy of hospice is letting the pet owner know the pet is dying.” 

The second international symposium on pet hospice will be held over Labor Day weekend on the campus of University of California-Davis. This new group, which recognizes veterinarians, veterinary technicians, social workers, psychologists, ethicists and clergy, has a great deal of work to do setting standards for this new field. For example, members will begin establishing protocols and guidelines for pain control, the place of euthanasia, and quality of life. The field is so new that attendees will even be charged with the task of defining pet hospice care. Visit www.avma.org for more information. 

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Pets cannot tolerate heat the same way as people. One big reason is that dogs don’t sweat, thereby lacking a natural way to cool down. To help ensure your pets don’t suffer from the heat, veterinarian Tracy Chase-Thompson, department chair of the veterinary technology program at Brown Mackie College in Michigan City, Ind., offers advice. “Heat exhaustion is one of the big things that can occur,” she says. “It happens more with dogs than cats, but it can occur with both.”

Heat exhaustion is a dangerous condition in animals that occurs due to lack of protection from hot weather and humidity. “It doesn’t take much time for heat exhaustion to develop,” says Chase-Thompson. “A dog can overheat in a hot vehicle in just 10 minutes.” Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy panting, drooling and labored breathing. “Gum color is another indicator. If gums appear red instead of pink, that’s a sign of an animal in distress.”

If it happens, Chase-Thompson recommends moving the animal to a cool spot immediately. “Give the dog water to drink, and wipe a cool washcloth over the fur. Don’t just dump water over the animal. It helps to place the paws in cool water as well,” she says. She does not recommend an ice bath. “If an animal cools too quickly, it can go into shock.”

Normal body temperature for a dog is between 101 F and 102 F. “A temperature higher than 105 F signals heat exhaustion,” says Chase-Thompson. In this case, the dog would require veterinarian care with IV fluids for hydration, and close monitoring of body temperature.

Pet owners can take a number of precautions to prevent heat stress and exhaustion in pets. If your dog will spend any amount of time outside, Chase-Thompson advises providing a shelter so that the dog can access shade at all times, and walking your dog before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when sunlight and humidity are less powerful. “It is safer to leave your pet at home on hot or humid days rather than in the car, even with the windows cracked. If you must take your pet, park in the shade, open the window, and don’t leave for more than 10 minutes,” she adds.

Another concern among pet owners is how to protect a pet that is afraid of the noise from fireworks and thunderstorms. “Some pets have a fear of noise at a young age. Others are fine when they’re young, yet become bothered by loud sounds as they grow older,” says Chase-Thompson. “It’s impossible to make the noise go away, but there are ways to minimize or disguise the noise.

“If you leave the dog alone, it could help to leave music playing. Turn on the radio or TV, or even a loud fan or air conditioner,” she advises. “If the animal’s reaction is really bad, I recommend staying with your pet to provide reassurance. There are anti-anxiety medications that a veterinarian can prescribe.” Chase-Thompson advises discussing with your veterinarian whether your pet is a good candidate. “Medications can help, but they don’t always work. It is important to lessen your pet’s fear with other types of comfort,” she says.

Try to give your pet a safe place where they won’t hurt themselves. And forget about reprimanding behavior that results from fear of loud noises. “They can’t simply change,” Chase-Thompson says. “Some pets like an item of the owner’s for comfort, like a T-shirt or old shoe.” A little knowledge can go a long way in protecting your pet from the pitfalls that summer brings.

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(ARA) – Americans love their pets and there are certainly lots of them to love. Sixty three percent of U.S. households own a pet and the most popular animals — dogs and cats — make up 82 percent of all pets, according to the American Pet Products Association.

With all those furry friends, it’s no surprise that pet-friendly design is one of the fastest growing interior decorating trends. From high-end home items to the basics, decorating is literally going to the dogs … and cats. Beyond pet-proofing a home for safety, pet-friendly decorating has an increasing number of animal lovers choosing and incorporating pet-friendly fabrics and building materials into their homes’ decor.

A number of cost-effective ways to maintain a fabulous-looking home are also practical and comfortable for both you and your pet. Here are five tricks of the trade:

Common sense color.
It’s one of the simplest interior design tricks — matching your furniture fabric to your pet’s fur color to help conceal dog and cat hair. For example, if you have a multi-colored pet, opt for a small pattern that closely matches your pet’s coloring. If you have a white poodle or feline, skip the all-black sofa and choose a lighter fabric color. If your heart is still set on black, accessorize with black pillows or a throw blanket. The same holds true if you own a pet with darker fur — the darker your fabric choices, the easier it will be to hide pet fur.

Skip the slipcover.
Thanks to recent advances made in the manufacturing of furniture fabric, there’s no need to hide your couch under an unsightly slipcover in order to protect it from the wear-and-tear of your pet. Look into purchasing furniture made with Crypton, a synthetic textile that’s easy to clean and highly resistant to stains, water and even bacteria. A less expensive option is ultrasuede microfiber. If either of these choices is still out of your price range, make sure your furniture is protected with Scotchgard. However, if you go this route, know that there are still some fabrics to avoid, such as denim, flannel, corduroy and velvet. Each of them has a tendency to hold pet fur.

Pet-friendly paint.
Keeping your walls clean and free of dirt marks can be a feat if you have a pet. Choosing a high-quality, durable paint really does make a difference. Dutch Boy’s Refresh paint, a new paint formulated with exclusive Arm & Hammer odor-eliminating technology, is ideal for pet owners. It provides a beautiful finish that’s also extremely durable, so cleanup of dirt and marks is easy. Plus, it actually removes odors, including pet smells, from the air. You’ll not only have great-looking walls, but a fresh-smelling home, too.

Fitting floors.
Flooring options for pet owners can be tricky because carpet holds stains and odors, and hardwood scratches easily. If you’re looking at replacing your carpeting, there are choices specifically designed for pet owners. One of them, Pet Agree Carpet, claims that it withstands any damage made by a pet. It’s made from a material that traps liquids, such as pet urine, and stops them from soaking through to the carpet padding and floor below.

If you prefer hardwood floors, but don’t want to deal with scratches that can be made by your four-legged friends, think laminate. Today’s laminate flooring, like the new North American collection from Tarkett Residential, is far more durable, and scratch- and indentation-resistant than softer real wood flooring. These surfaces also install faster, are about half the price and still offer a vast choice in unique wood finishes.

Less is more.
Another smart design tip: keep knickknacks and accent pieces to a minimum. Today’s trend in creating clean, streamlined spaces is not only aesthetically appealing, but is ideal for pet owners. A well-thought-out design means you’ll enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free environment while keeping unnecessary, decorative items out of reach of pets’ sweeping tails and curious jaws.

Ensuring you, Fido and Fluffy live harmoniously doesn’t mean you need to spend a bundle, or sacrifice your sense of style. By doing your research, formulating a decorating plan and choosing your materials carefully, you can easily create a home that’s fit for man and beast.

For more information about Refresh paint, visit www.dutchboy.com/refresh, or call (800) 828-5669.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Moving away from home can be traumatic. Add to that living with strangers and having to leave behind beloved pets, and it’s a wonder anyone wants to go to college at all.

Luckily, some colleges are starting to recognize the fact that when students are allowed to bring their pets with them to live in the dorms, it’s better for everyone (except those with allergies, I guess, but even then, the animal-friendly rooms are on designated floors).

Although currently only a handful of colleges are open to the idea, those that are require pets to be up to date on all vaccinations, and students must also pay a deposit for the privilege of having Fido or Fluffy live with them.

Most colleges that do allow pets have their own set of rules as well, however.

The housing contract at California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, takes things a step further by requiring students to specify who will care for their pet if they cannot.

Eckerd College requires students to have the pet at home for at least a year prior to enrollment.

At Stephens College, they have teamed up with Columbia Second Chance (a rescue group) to allow students to foster pets in the dorms.

Indiana University allows small rodents, reptiles, rabbits and amphibians.

UCLA, Caltech and MIT allow cats (the Caltech Animal Team, or CAT, even helps with the feral cat population on campus).

Looks like the next dorm party might resemble Animal House in the literal sense!

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Think Twice Before Taking Your Pooch to a Picnic

This scenario plays out everywhere. You’re about to head out to a picnic or other outdoor gathering and you know that dog of yours loves going to the park. It can be difficult to leave a beloved pet at home. However, before you melt and reach for the leash when the dog looks at you with pleading eyes, there are many things to consider.

“Taking your dog with you on a picnic can be a wonderful experience. It can also turn into a nightmare if you are not properly prepared,“ says Paula Lind (CVT, BS) chair of the veterinary technology program at Argosy University, Twin Cities. According to Lind, you should inquire ahead of time whether the picnic location allows pets. Many parks ban dogs altogether, and arriving with your pooch could prohibit you from attending the event.

To help ensure an enjoyable experience for all, Lind recommends that dog owners consider several basic issues before taking a pet to a picnic.

* Vaccinations. The New York Department of Health reports that raccoons present a growing risk for rabies, particularly across the eastern seaboard. Be sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date before exposure to wooded areas and other wild or domestic animals.

* Obedience Training. “A dog must be trained at home with no distractions,” says Lind. “Children running and throwing balls are big distractions that can put stress on a dog. It’s impossible to teach anything when a dog is stressed. If the ‘down’ and ‘stay’ commands are not heeded in the home, it’s not fair to expect that the dog will behave elsewhere. Another consideration is proper off-leash obedience. Do you have reliable recall? Can you get him back if he takes off? If not, it becomes a safety issue.”

* Socialization. “Many unfortunate situations can occur when a dog is not properly socialized. Consider how your dog reacts to children, strangers and other animals” says Lind. A dog that jumps up to say hello can frighten a child and become a nuisance to other guests. One that becomes aggressive toward other dogs should not attend a gathering where another animal could be present.

* Supplies. When a trusted dog with established training accompanies you to a picnic, it’s important to take supplies with you. Lind outlines these basic items: water supply and bowl, food, leash and/or chain, appropriate treats, a toy to keep your pet occupied, and “poop bags” for waste disposal. Lind recommends not allowing guests to feed your pet “people food,” which can cause an upset stomach on the ride home.

* Backup Plan. If your pet disrupts an event away from home, you will need to remove the dog to a safe place. What will you do? “Cars become dangerously hot in the summer months, even with the windows down. Unless you’re prepared to leave early and take your pet home, you will need to arrange for the dog’s safekeeping for the duration of your stay at the event,” states Lind.

“It’s all about training, socialization, and common sense,” says Lind. A dog that is well behaved at home, and proven to be a “good canine citizen” in public, can be a welcome addition at a picnic or outdoor gathering. “As a general rule, if the dog can’t walk on a leash properly around the neighborhood, please don’t take him,” Lind says.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Petiquette for the Modern Pet Owner

Petiquette for the Modern Pet Owner

“Like with any relationship, there are pros and cons. And because they are amazing creatures that give an incredible amount of love, they are worth the time, energy and expense that it takes to care for them,” comments Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of “The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette.” As an owner of three dogs, three cats and one parrot, she knows both the joys and stress that pets can cause.

“The modern pet owner considers pets one of their children, but they need to be socially responsible as well. There are some things that should to be considered in order for your pet to be a positive part of your life without taking it over. Pet etiquette or rather petiquette, is about understanding that good behavior has to be practiced at both ends of the leash.”

* It is good manners to have a clean pet?

One of the first issues that many pet owners have with their pets is that they can be very messy. They spill food, ravage furniture, and leave fur everywhere and can be smelly. But just because you have a pet doesn’t mean you should let your house go.
“My cats love to curl up by my printer and computer because they give off heat. The hair sticks to the static and collects fast. For fast cleanups, seek out vacuums that are known to be tough on pet hair.”

The vacuum Reed recommends for pet owners is the Dyson DC16 Animal handheld vacuum. Specially designed for pet hair pickup with a motorized brush bar and twice the suction power of other handhelds, Reed says “it’s great for quick cleanups for an upcoming date, family dinner or any unexpected visitors. I even use it in my car.”

To eliminate odors, Reed advises to wash or groom your dogs monthly. If you find it difficult to give your cat a bath, brush your pet at least once a week to remove loose hair and debris from the feline coat. Additionally, scoop feline litter boxes daily. And for dogs, she says to train them to use one area outdoors so that waste is confined — that area should be cleaned regularly. For senior, ill or toy dogs that use indoor potty areas, she recommends changing their papers daily. Also, cleaning pet beds and toys regularly — at least once a month — also contribute to a healthier pet and tidier home.

* Traveling with furry friends can be fun.

More people travel with their pets than ever before, whether it’s in the car to run errands or on a plane for a vacation. All pets can be excellent travel companions with the right expectations and planning.

“Always call ahead to where you are staying to verify their pet policy. Bring plenty of food, supplies and toys so that your pet feels comfortable. Try to keep your pet on his regular food and exercise schedule to eliminate stress for both of you. And make sure that your pet practices its best obedience,” says Reed.

Keep cleanup items like an odor eliminator and stain remover on hand in case there is an accident in the car or at your hotel. Be prepared to replace or repair any items destroyed by your pet.

If your pet is well-behaved, only ask a close family member or friend, if you can bring your pet along for a visit. If your host declines, do not be offended. Find a professional pet sitter or kennel by contacting your veterinarian, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Pet Sitter International or the American Boarding Kennel Association. Confirm that the animal professional is bonded and insured and has at least three references.

* You can love your pet, but keep a balanced life.

You might love your little critter, but not everyone wants to hear every detail about your pet, especially a date. Practicing petiquette is an important part of the modern pet owner’s life. Balance is important to understand and implement at work and at home.

For example, one picture of your pet on your desk or in your wallet is perfectly fine. But make sure that your office doesn’t become a shrine to your furry companion. Not everyone shares your enthusiasm and subtlety is a virtue every pet owner must have.

Besides keeping your home clean, it’s important to keep your clothes clean as well. “There’s no need to go to work looking like your cat or dog slept on your clothes all night. A quick swoop with a vacuum or sticky roller should do the trick,” adds Reed.

For more pet tips, please visit www.missfidomanners.com. And for more information about the Dyson DC16 Animal, please visit www.dyson.com. Charlotte’s book, “The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette,” is available everywhere books are sold.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Americans are crazy about animals, and the number of pets in homes has never been higher. However, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), the incidence of perennial allergies is on the increase, with an estimated 63 percent of allergy sufferers now coping with year-round problems.

We’re not talking about a big coincidence here.

Still, the AAAAI also notes that people who own pets and have allergies are not about to give up their dogs, cats or ferrets to get relief from the hair and dander that cause their symptoms. A 1999 survey revealed that 44 percent of people allergic to their pets will not give the pet away despite awareness in 70 percent of those surveyed that their pets were a major cause of their allergic problems. What’s more, 77 percent hadn’t even confined their pets to specific areas of the house.

Lisa Miller illustrates the strength of the human-animal bond behind this phenomenon. “Natasha was our first ‘child’ 15 years ago,” explains the Bellmore, N.Y., dental hygienist who is, in fact, allergic to her own cat. “You don’t get rid of a family member just because there’s a problem.” And so the Siamese cat’s status in the family remains rock-solid today, even though the human children who followed — Blythe, 12; Alana, 8; and Jared, 4-1/2 — also sneeze year-round because of their allergies to, among other things, cats.

Until about five years ago, keeping allergens under control in her house meant that Miller had to do “a tremendous amount of constant cleaning, vacuuming and lint rollering to keep everything in the house as hair- and dust-free as possible.” Then she came across a dietary supplement for Natasha that eliminated non-seasonal shedding and dramatically cut down the family’s sneeze factor.

“I mix Mrs. Allen’s Shed-Stop into Natasha’s food once a day,” says Miller. “It’s extremely palatable, which is especially important when it comes to feeding anything to cats. And it works. The amount of cat hair I find around the house is greatly reduced, and so is our sneezing. I’ve been recommending it to all my dental patients who come in covered with pet hair.”

The bonus for allergy sufferers, explains Barbara Allen, the name behind Shed-Stop (Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.), is that by dramatically reducing year-round shedding in pets, the level of pet-related allergens in a home also may be dramatically reduced.

Allen explains that shedding is a normal physiologic process that occurs seasonally in pets. “It’s the continual hair loss that we’ve come to think is normal that’s the problem,” she says. “Continual hair loss is not normal; it can be a sign of a nutritional deficiency.” With her patented formula, Allen says, “Most pet owners see a difference in their pets’ coats in four weeks or less. The skin and coat condition improves, and year-round shedding is all but eliminated as pets are restored to what nature intended — shedding their coats just once or twice a year.”

Proper nutrition promotes good skin and hair health. Major ingredients in the Shed-Stop formula are sunflower, safflower, olive, soy and cod-liver oils, with the addition of whole fish oil in the cat formula. These oils provide necessary fats and essential fatty acids to keep skin and hair from becoming coarse and dry. The patented mixtures also contain vitamins A and E, which are essential for healthy skin, and zinc, a key mineral necessary for hair and skin health.

For more information, visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s Web site at www.aaaai.org.

13 Ways to Reduce Household Allergens from Pets

Allergy sufferers have tolerance levels that vary from person to person. But once a person exceeds his or her tolerance level, allergic reactions may occur.

Here are tips pet owners can use to lower their risk of reaction and reduce allergens in their homes:

- Wash hands after touching pets and before touching your eyes or face.

- Restrict pets to certain rooms of the home to create allergy-free areas (especially bedrooms).

- Use allergen-resistant covers on mattresses and pillows.

- Wash sheets weekly in water that is at least 130 degrees.

- Where feasible, reduce the amount of carpet in the home, especially in bedrooms and sitting rooms.

- Avoid dust- and dander-catching furnishings (e.g., cloth curtains and blinds).

- If pets have a favorite place on the furniture, cover that spot with removable, washable slipcovers.

- Use vacuums with high-efficiency particulate air filters to help clean the air.

- Use air purification devices to reduce allergens and eliminate household odors.

- Have a non-allergic family member bathe pets weekly.

- Have a non-allergic person groom pets regularly — outside the house.

- Keep the house well ventilated.

- Use Mrs. Allen’s Shed-Stop to significantly reduce the number of allergens in the house by reducing shedding and improving the skin condition of dogs, cats and ferrets.

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Courtesy of ARA Content

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Today’s Healthy Outlook with Jennifer Foss, R.N.

A few years ago, I read an article about a woman who was in a coma. Nothing the doctors did changed her condition. Finally, the woman’s daughter smuggled her mother’s beloved cat into the hospital room. As the cat lay on the bed and began purring, the woman began to rouse from her coma.

Although extremely unusual, this anecdote illustrates the benefit humans derive from their pets. Studies have shown that the bonds people form with their pets can serve to improve certain health conditions, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Cardiovascular Boost

Anyone who owns a pet knows the unconditional love a pet offers. But do you know that your blood pressure and triglyceride and cholesterol levels may be lower because of that unconditional love? According to the NIH, the relaxing effect of pets may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which in turn might promote a measure of protection from heart disease.
Pet owners are also more likely to survive a heart attack than those who don’t have pets, according to a 1995 study published in the American Journal of Cardiology.

Mood Elevator

Pet ownership also may be good for your mood. Studies conducted on men with AIDS and with senior citizens indicate that pet ownership can help relieve symptoms of depression. A study published in the March 1999 Journal of the American Geriatrics Society showed that senior citizens who own pets are less likely to be depressed, are better able to tolerate social isolation and are more active than those who do not own pets. Activity levels increased regardless of the kind of pet the individuals owned.

In addition, pet owners living alone say they are less lonely and report fewer minor health problems. Pets may help relieve stress and anxiety by encouraging playfulness and promoting laughter.

Pet Therapy

Many experts believe one reason pets may have a therapeutic effect on people is comfort. They are soft, soothing to stroke and nonjudgmental. Pets also seem to meet the need for companionship and relationship building that is not always available to some individuals.

For many people, the sense of responsibility associated with caring for a pet is significant. Nurturing an animal may expand a person’s ability to generate social ties, according to researcher and British zoologist, Peter Messent.

Word of Caution

Although the benefits of pet ownership may be many, it’s not for everyone. Not all people are financially or physically capable of caring for an animal. It’s important to assess your ability to provide the care and basic needs of a pet before purchasing one. Also, take the time to research which kind of animal may be best suited to your lifestyle and abilities.

Courtesy of ARA content

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