by TCMVET | Oct 8, 2023 | Food & Health
Heartworm disease, primarily caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, constitutes a severe threat to canine health globally. Traditionally, treatment is dominated by chemical-based medications, yet a rising wave of pet owners now leans toward natural remedies, providing a gentle yet effective defense against this perilous condition. This article sheds light on efficacious, natural strategies to counteract heartworms in dogs, while also enhancing the chances of being recognized and indexed by search engines such as Google.
Section I: Understand the Foe: Heartworm Lifecycle
A sound knowledge of the heartworm lifecycle is imperative for devising competent prevention and treatment strategies. The heartworm cycle commences with the microscopic offspring (microfilariae) residing in the infected animal’s bloodstream. When mosquitoes feed on the infected blood, they ingest the microfilariae, which mature into infective larvae within the mosquitoes. The disease transmits when these mosquitoes bite another host, injecting the larvae, which eventually grow into adult heartworms.
Section II: Nature’s Armamentarium: Natural Preventatives
1. Garlic: The Pungent Protector
Despite its controversial standing, moderate garlic supplementation can act as a potent heartworm preventative. Garlic exudes a distinct odor through the dog’s skin, repelling mosquitoes and thereby reducing the risk of heartworm transmission. However, precise dosage is crucial as excessive garlic can be toxic to dogs.
2. Neem Oil: A Double-Edged Sword
Derived from the Neem tree, Neem oil is celebrated for its insecticidal properties. It not only deters mosquitoes but also disrupts the growth of microfilariae, rendering them incapable of developing into adult heartworms.
3. Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Microscopic Might
Food-grade DE is a non-toxic powder that dehydrates and eradicates internal parasites, including heartworms. This naturally occurring substance is safe for dogs when used appropriately and primarily works as a preventive measure.
Section III: A Multi-Pronged Approach: Combining Natural Preventatives
Preventing heartworm naturally doesn’t exclusively rely on a single solution; rather, it’s a confluence of various natural strategies working in tandem. For instance, combining external mosquito repellents with internal preventatives enhances your dog’s protective shield against heartworms. Maintaining a robust immune system through optimal nutrition and supplements is equally significant in the prevention tableau.
Section IV: Consultation & Consistency: The Twin Pillars of Prevention
Before integrating any natural remedy, consulting with a veterinarian is non-negotiable. Professional advice ensures that chosen preventatives align with your dog’s health profile and dietary needs, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. Consistency in administering these natural preventatives is also pivotal in establishing an unassailable defense against heartworms.
Natural remedies offer a compelling alternative for those seeking gentle, chemical-free heartworm prevention for their canine companions. Through understanding the heartworm lifecycle and strategically employing nature’s diverse protective arsenal, pet owners can efficiently safeguard their beloved dogs against the menace of heartworm disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional to devise a personalized, consistent prevention routine, heralding a future where dogs not only live but thrive, heartworm-free.
by Dr. Faith Whitehead | Nov 11, 2022 | Cat Cancer & Tumors, Dog Cancer & Tumors, Food & Health, Medicines & Therapies, pet Chinese herbal medicine, Research and News
Ayurveda is a system of medicine originating in ancient India that seeks to treat the body, mind, and spirit as a whole. It is based on the belief that health and wellbeing are determined by a balance of the three doshas, or energies, in the body. Ayurveda practitioners use a variety of techniques, including diet, lifestyle changes, and massages, to restore balance and improve health. TCM, or Traditional Chinese Medicine, is another system of medicine with ancient roots. It is based on the belief that health is determined by the balance of yin and yang energies in the body. TCM practitioners use a variety of techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage, to restore balance and improve health.
There are several key differences between Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine from India that dates back over 5,000 years. TCM is a similar system of medicine from China that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. One key difference between the two systems is that Ayurveda focuses on the mind-body connection, while TCM focuses more on the physical body. Ayurveda also emphasizes the importance of balance in one’s life, while TCM focuses more on the use of herbs and acupuncture to restore balance. Ayurveda emphasizes preventative care, while TCM focuses more on treating existing conditions. Ayurveda’s three doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha is made of a combination of two of the five elements. Vata is made of space and air and governs movement and change. Pitta is made of fire and water and governs metabolism, digestion, and transformation. Kapha is made of water and earth and governs structure and stability. Our bodies are made of the same five elements that make up the universe. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that when our bodies are out of balance, it’s because we have too much or too little of one of the elements. Ayurveda aims to bring the body back into balance by using dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as herbal remedies.
Both TCM and contemporary drug are practised in mainland China and China, and most Chinese-Americans are comfortable being both medical thought schemes. Nevertheless, certain fields of care are seen as better suited for contemporary drug, e.g., emergency aid and identifiable illnesses , e.g., cancer, stroke, surgery and diabetes. Some degenerative illnesses, e.g., arthritis or digestive subjects, may remain mostly treated with TCM. Some Chinese people would have TCM first to present a symptom or illness before seeing the doctor. Because TCM emphasises that each part of the structure is related with others, it should be required that some Chinese-Americans can incorporate components of TCM into the attention they have, including end-of-life care. People may create their own therapy, for instance altering their fast, frequently seeking help from practitioners, who may or may not be certified]
There is a significant body of evidence that suggests that Ayurveda and TCM can be effective in the treatment of a wide range of conditions. In particular, these modalities may be helpful in the management of chronic conditions such as pain, fatigue, and arthritis. Additionally, Ayurveda and TCM may also be beneficial in the treatment of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
About the author: Dr. Faith Whitehead; is a licensed veterinarian and researcher.
by Dr. Faith Whitehead | Nov 11, 2022 | Research and News, Cat Cancer & Tumors, Dog Cancer & Tumors, Food & Health, Medicines & Therapies, pet Chinese herbal medicine
Pets play an important role in TCM, where they are often used as therapy animals. In traditional TCM, there are four main categories of therapy animals: domestic animals, wild animals, insects, and reptiles. Each category has different therapeutic effects and is used for different purposes. Pets can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, and chronic pain. They can also be used to improve circulation, boost the immune system, and promote healing. There are a variety of ways to use pets in Chinese medicine. Common methods include acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and massage. Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. It is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including pain, anxiety, nausea, and migraines. Moxibustion is a form of Chinese medicine that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia argyi) on or near the skin. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, and menstrual cramps. Cupping is a form of Chinese medicine that involves placing glass cups on the skin and creating a vacuum. This vacuum pulls the skin and muscles upwards, which is said to improve circulation and relieve pain. Massage is a form of Chinese medicine that involves rubbing, kneading, or stroking the skin with the hands. It is used to treat a variety.
Domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, are the most commonly used therapy animals in China. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes to help patients recover from illness and injury. Dogs are especially popular, as they are believed to have a special ability to sense and respond to human emotions. Therapy animals can provide companionship, emotional support, and physical contact to people who are lonely, sick, or injured. They can also help people to coping with anxiety, stress, and depression. Therapy animals can be used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, prisons, and shelters. There is no formal training or certification required for therapy animals in China. However, animals must be healthy and have a good temperament in order to be considered for therapy work.
Wild animals, such as tigers and bears, are also used in Chinese medicine, but they are less common than domestic animals. Wild animals are thought to have more powerful therapeutic effects than domestic animals, and they are often used to treat more serious conditions. There are a number of different ways that wild animals can be used in traditional Chinese medicine. They can be used whole, or in parts, and can be consumed orally, applied topically, or injected. One of the most common ways that wild animals are used in traditional Chinese medicine is through the consumption of their body parts. This can be done by eating the meat, organs, or other tissues of the animal, or by drinking its blood. Wild animals are also sometimes used in traditional Chinese medicine through the application of their body parts to the skin. This can be done by rubbing the body part on the skin, or by applying it as a poultice. In some cases, wild animals are used in traditional Chinese medicine through injections. This is usually done with the help of acupuncture needles, which are inserted into specific points on the body. There are a number of different benefits that are associated with the use of wild animals in traditional Chinese medicine. For example, it is believed that they can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Wild animals are also thought to be able to improve the function of the immune system, and to help to fight off infections.
Insects, such as bees and silkworms, are also used in Chinese medicine. Insects are believed to have a range of therapeutic effects, including the ability to reduce inflammation and pain. Reptiles, such as snakes and lizards, are also used in Chinese medicine. Reptiles are thought to have powerful therapeutic effects, and they are often used to treat serious conditions. In addition to animals, Chinese medicine also uses a variety of plant-based substances. Herbs are the most commonly used plant-based substances in Chinese medicine. Chinese herbs are often used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, and digestion problems. A wide variety of plant-based substances are used in Chinese medicine, including roots, leaves, flowers, and bark.Many intractable diseases can be treated with a combination of traditional Chinese and Western medicine.
About the author: Dr. Faith Whitehead; is a licensed veterinarian and researcher.
by Dr. Faith Whitehead | Nov 11, 2022 | Cat Cancer & Tumors, Dog Cancer & Tumors, Food & Health, Research and News
There are a variety of foods that are safe for dogs with cancer, as well as a few contraindications to be aware of. In general, it is best to feed your dog a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This will help to keep their energy levels up and maintain their muscle mass. Some specific foods that are safe for dogs with cancer include: – lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish – cottage cheese – boiled eggs – plain yogurt – fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apples, and green beans A few things to avoid feeding your dog with cancer include: – processed foods – foods high in sugar – fatty foods – foods that contain artificial preservatives or flavors In addition to a healthy diet, there are a few supplements that can be beneficial for dogs with cancer. These include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and green tea extract. Omega-3 fatty acids help to fight inflammation, while vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage. Green tea extract contains polyphenols, which are thought to have anti-cancer properties.
Cancer is a devastating diagnosis for any pet owner, but it is especially difficult when it is your furry best friend who has been diagnosed. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best diet for a dog with cancer, there are some general guidelines that can help you choose foods that will be most beneficial for your dog. The first thing to consider is whether your dog is undergoing treatment for cancer. If so, your veterinarian will likely recommend a diet that is lower in fat and higher in protein to help your dog maintain their energy levels and weight. If your dog is not undergoing treatment, you may have more flexibility in their diet, but it is still important to choose foods that will provide them with the nutrients they need.
There are many different types of cancer that can affect dogs, and each type will have different dietary requirements. For example, a dog with bone cancer may need a diet that is high in protein and calcium, while a dog with gastrointestinal cancer may need a diet that is easy to digest and low in fat. When it comes to feeding dogs with cancer, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to create a plan that’s best for your dog. Secondly, it’s important to be aware of potential contraindications associated with certain foods. When it comes to cancer, there are a few different types that can affect dogs. The most common types of cancer in dogs are lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma. Each type of cancer comes with its own set of symptoms and treatment options, so it’s important to work with your vet to create a plan that’s right for your dog. In general, a dog with cancer will need a diet that’s high in calories and protein. This is because cancer can cause weight loss and muscle wasting. Fat is also an important part of the diet, as it provides energy and helps to absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
About the author: Dr. Faith Whitehead; is a licensed veterinarian and researcher.
by Dr. Faith Whitehead | Nov 11, 2022 | Cat Cancer & Tumors, Dog Cancer & Tumors, Food & Health, Medicines & Therapies, Pet Story, Research and News
Euthanasia is the humane process of ending an animal’s life in order to relieve pain and suffering. The decision to euthanize a pet is a difficult one, but sometimes it is the most humane option. If you are considering euthanasia for your pet, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to discuss all of your options and to make sure that you are making the best decision for your pet. Veterinarians may perform euthanasia on pets for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is when a pet is suffering from a terminal illness and the owner does not want the pet to continue to suffer. Other reasons for euthanasia include when a pet is aggressive and poses a danger to others, when a pet is severely injured and cannot be healed, or when an owner can no longer afford to care for the pet.
There are a number of procedures that can be used for euthanasia in pets, and the support given will depend on the individual pet and owner. Some common procedures include injecting a lethal dose of an anesthetic agent, such as euthanasia solution, into the vein or muscle; asphyxiation using carbon dioxide; or administration of a high dose of barbiturates. The owner may be present during the procedure, and the pet will usually be placed on a table or in a quiet room to minimize stress. After the pet is euthanized, the body will be removed and the owner may be given time to say goodbye.
The pros of going forward with euthanasia in pets is that it can provide a peaceful death for a pet that is suffering from a terminal illness or has a poor quality of life. It can also spare the pet’s owner from having to witness the pet’s decline and suffering. The cons of going forward with euthanasia in pets is that it is a permanent solution and can be emotionally devastating for the pet’s owner. Some people may feel that euthanasia is a good idea in certain situations, such as when a pet is suffering from a terminal illness and is in pain, while others may believe that it is never acceptable to end a pet’s life. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to euthanize a pet is a personal one that should be made by the pet’s owner in consultation with a veterinarian.
There are a few things to keep in mind when considering euthanasia for a pet. First, make sure that you have a good reason for doing so. Euthanasia should only be considered when a pet is suffering from a terminal illness or is in pain that cannot be alleviated. Second, be sure to consult with a veterinarian before making a decision. They will be able to advise you on whether or not euthanasia is the best option for your pet. Finally, be prepared for the emotional fallout that comes with euthanasia. This is a difficult decision to make, and it is important to be prepared for the grief that comes afterwards.
by Dr. Faith Whitehead | Nov 11, 2022 | Food & Health, Medicines & Therapies, Research and News
Allergic (atopic) dermatitis is the most typical skin condition observed in many veterinary facilities. This syndrome causes itching following exposure to environmental allergens (often airborne ones) (foreign proteins which induce allergies.) True food allergies in dogs are rather uncommon. Pets may have food intolerances, which are allergic reactions to non-nutrients in the diet (such additives), however it can be difficult to determine how common these reactions are. While giving your pet the healthiest, most natural, and holistic food you can is advised, dietary therapy is not a cornerstone in the treatment of itching dogs.
With a little adjustment, diets designed for animals with digestive difficulties may be helpful for animals with skin conditions. These customized meals are used to diagnose and manage food allergies in addition to monitoring any improvements in pets that suffer from skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Remember that feeding your itching dogs the diet used to test and treat food allergies may result in improvement even if they don’t have a real food allergy.
A food trial is a specific, scientific approach to testing for food allergy. This can be done using either a homemade diet or a commercial diet that has been designed specifically for food trials. All other food sources, such as treats, snacks, table scraps, and flavored medications, must be removed during the trial. Your pet should be eating the trial diet exclusively for at least 8 weeks, although 12 weeks is currently recommended, because initial improvement may not be seen until week 8. After 8 weeks, it is usually safe to slowly introduce other foods back into the diet in a controlled manner. If you are unsure how to do this, please speak with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. If your pet has a food allergy, once the allergenic ingredients are removed, symptoms should resolve. If your pet does not improve, then food allergies are likely not the cause of the skin problems. The food trial may not be successful in some cases, and a food allergy may still be present. In this case, the skin symptoms may not respond to the trial diet because your pet may have an allergy to one or more of the ingredients in the trial diet.
When testing for food allergies, a hypoallergenic diet must be used. The most common varieties of hypoallergenic diets are hydrolyzed protein diets, where the protein has been broken down into smaller units that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Other diets may use novel proteins, such as venison or rabbit that are not commonly used in pet foods. After food allergies have been ruled out, a novel protein or hydrolyzed protein diet may be used to treat pets with food allergies and atopic dermatitis. A diet may be used for several months to years, or for the lifetime of the pet, depending on the severity of the food allergies. A diet may be used as a sole therapy or as a component of a more comprehensive plan to control allergies and skin disease. If a diet is used in combination with other therapies, it may be necessary to feed the diet for a longer period of time to see clinical improvement.
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