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Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member

Green Your Pets:


Spay and Neuter




Pets are such a source of joy; science has proven that having an animal companion provides many physical and psychological benefits. But America’s more than 160 million owned dogs and cats surely impact the environment.

Get ‘Em Fixed

Animal overpopulation is an issue not only because up to 4 million shelter animals are euthanized in the U.S. each year, but also because of the environmental impact of too many stray and abandoned animals: they can harm local wildlife, deposit waste, and spread trash. You can help curb the problem by having your pet spayed or neutered


source

Your Whole Pet

The environmental impact


of pets

By Christie Keith, Special to SF Gate

Christie Keith is a contributing editor for Universal Press Syndicate's Pet Connection and past director of the Pet Care Forum on America Online. She lives in San Francisco.

So, you got up one morning, looked in the mirror, and vowed to reduce your carbon footprint. That backyard composting project you'd been putting off for years? Definitely time. The stack of newspapers by the kitchen table? Going to the recycling center this week, you swore.

And then your cat rubbed against your ankles, asking for her breakfast. You opened the box of cat food and shook the last of the kibble into her bowl, and tossed the empty box into the trash. The noise brought your dog into the kitchen, looking for a walk and his breakfast, too.

While you were driving the few miles to the dog park, you hit the drive-through espresso place, your engine idling while you waited your turn. You sat on the bench at the park watching your dog play with other dogs, sipping a latte and chatting with other early-morning dog walkers, maybe about your newfound resolution to be a better environmental citizen.

You called your dog, hoping he'd pooped while you were otherwise distracted, threw your empty coffee cup into the trash can, and headed back home. You didn't stop at the bank or post office because it was too warm to leave the dog in the car, so you'd have to make a second trip later that day.

When you got home, you opened a can of dog food and mixed it with some kibble. You threw the can away, and then dumped your cat's litter into a plastic bag, and threw that away, too. Then you got back in your car to do those errands you'd had to put off when you were out earlier with the dog.

This isn't a lesson in spotting hypocrisy, nor even a subtle message that people who let their dogs poop without picking it up are jerks. (Although they are — so much for "subtle.") It's really nothing more than a checklist of a few of the ways humans impact the environment with the decisions we make about caring for our pets.

In this column, I'm going to look at the environmental impacts of pet ownership, some of which are fairly obvious and some of which most of us rarely consider. Then in my next column, I'll examine the solutions to these problems, and even provide a glimpse into ways that sharing our lives with companion animals improves the planet.


What goes in must come out

From that not-​so-​fragrant pile on the sidewalk to the cat litter box hidden in the laundry room, the biggest piece of the pet pollution puzzle is poop. Whether you dispose of it in the trash, flush it or leave it where it falls, it's a problem.

America's 73 million dogs produce around 10 million tons of dog poop per year — 6,500 tons of that in San Francisco alone, making up around 4 percent of the city's total residential waste. The litter from America's 90 million pet cats results in around 2 millions tons of cat litter being sent to landfills each year. Making the problem worse, clay-based litters aren't biodegradable, as they're already in their final state of decomposition.

While there are regional composting operations that accept dog and cat waste (I'll have more on that in my next column, as well as on an innovative San Francisco solution to the dog poop problem), getting rid of used cat litter and dog feces is one of the most difficult challenges for the green-minded pet owner. Feces left in gardens, parks, empty lots, and on the streets will run off into storm drains and waterways, contaminating them with bacterial waste that can cause human and wildlife diseases.

Compliance rates on canine pooper-​scooping vary wildly from community to community. Some areas actually hire commercial poop removal services because local dog owners aren't picking up after their pets, while many dog parks are self-policed to such an extent that before your dog has finished squatting, six people are hollering at you: "Clean up after your dog!" But even the most conscientious poop-scooping dog owners might be picking up their dog's feces with a plastic bag, creating serious problems as the degradable poop is sealed inside a non-degradable bag that will spend something close to eternity in the landfill, along with a couple million tons of similarly-​enshrouded cat litter.

While dog feces can be safely disposed of in the toilet, used cat litter should never be flushed. Modern waste treatment doesn't kill a pesky organism known as toxoplasma gondii. When water containing this parasite enters the ocean, it sickens and kills sea otter populations. Toxoplasma also causes disease in humans, especially the immune-​compromised and pregnant women.

Disposing of used cat litter is only half the problem. The other half is figuring out what to use as litter in the first place. Clay-based cat litters are not a by-product of the manufacture of something else, but produced by strip mining. The clay, known as bentonite, is found under several layers of soil, which are removed in the mining process. The first few inches of clay are discarded, and the final clay is removed and processed into cat litter. When it comes to "green" products, you don't get much less green than that. (Some more planet-​friendly options will be discussed in my next column.) [posted below]

Back to 'what goes in'

In addition to the difficult problem of pet waste, there's also the stuff that creates the waste in the first place: pet food. Just as with human food, pet food is the tip of the iceberg on a whole host of environmental challenges.

Even people who spend hours at Whole Foods reading labels and querying the butcher about the life and death of that night's dinner often just grab the nearest brightly-​colored sack or box for their pets. I used to argue with the owner of a small health food store in Sonoma County -- who wouldn't even sell organic or grass-fed meat or chicken for people because she believed eating animals was cruelty -- about the really terrible pet food she carried. Not only were they low in quality but their meat sources were far less consistent with her store's supposed humane and ecological values than the free-range and organic meats she wouldn't carry.

If you're a consumer who is concerned about the impact of factory farming on the environment (and if you think cat poop is a problem for the environment, let's talk about high-volume hog farming sometime), the source of the meat products in your pet's food deserves as much scrutiny as the source in your own. If you only buy locally grown, organically raised produce, try to support sustainable methods of agriculture, and seek out meats raised and slaughtered in ways you find humane, you might be surprised to find out how hard it is to apply those same standards to your pets' food.

It can also be harder to "buy local" when using commercial pet foods. Even companies located nearby might manufacture their foods in plants in other states, using ingredients shipped in from all over the world. Nearly every vitamin supplement used in this country is made in China, and, as this year's pet food recall taught us, so are many of the raw ingredients of pet foods. The environmental cost of packaging, shipping, storing, and distributing those sacks and cans of pet food has to be tallied, along with the convenience of using them.

Speaking of packaging, how do you dispose of the empty containers? While dog poop might make up 4 percent of San Francisco's solid waste, product packaging makes up one-third of the stuff sent to landfills. Boxes, bags, and food containers make up the single largest segment of that sold waste stream, although there are no statistics indicating what percentage of that is from pet food. But every pet food can, box, pouch or sack tossed in the trash ends up in a landfill. While some pet food manufacturers, such as San Diego's Honest Kitchen, are switching to post-consumer recycled packaging, and some packaging, such as cardboard boxes, is easily recycled, pet food product packaging unquestionably makes a bad situation worse.

Cheap plastic imported crap

If the pet poop problem reminds anyone of the disposable diapers problem, then it won't be a surprise to know that pets and kids share another issue: toys.

Imported plastic toys in bright colors fill the aisles of pet supply stores pretty much the same way they fill the aisles of toy stores. Manufactured in countries where environmental regulations are lax or irregularly enforced, shipped into and all over the United States, these cheap goods usually don't last long. The broken toys end up in the landfill and we head back out into the stores in search of yet more cheap plastic crap.

Unlike children, who have their consumer desires fostered by a whole marketing machine aimed right at them, our pets really don't care if they have the same cool stuff as the cat and dog next door. In fact, cats are usually much happier with a paper bag to play with, and our dogs can't see those bright plastic colors in the first place. We're buying that stuff for us, not for them.

Location, location, location

We drive our pets to the groomer, the vet, the park, doggy day care. Their food, toys, combs, brushes, and other supplies are shipped from locations all over the country, or even all over the world. When you get right down to it, it's all about the gas.

Of course, not every pet owner lives walking distance from a park, veterinarian, groomer, or doggy day care any more than they live near their children's schools, their hairdresser or their own workplaces. Sometimes that twice-daily drive to the dog park is a necessity rather than a choice. And because it's not a good idea to leave dogs in the car while we do other errands, particularly on warm days, it's hard to bunch trips to the dog park with grocery shopping and returning the DVDs. Because dogs suffer more from heat than humans do and driving with the windows open isn't always safe when there are pets in the car, sometimes we have to use our air conditioners more when transporting the dog.

But whether a matter of choice or necessity, all those miles of driving have a cost, one we pay for once at the gas station and again in environmental harm.

Drugs, shampoos, and chemicals

People rarely dispose properly of their own unused medications and garden pesticides, and this is no less a problem when it comes to drugs and chemicals used for our pets. Unfortunately, knowledge about proper disposal of chemicals or the waste of animals who are on certain medications is not widespread, and many people have simply never thought about the issue at all. But from the shampoo you cheerfully rinse off your dog in the backyard to the medications you flush down the toilet (or into the storm drain in your pet's urine or feces) or the flea and tick control product containers you toss into the trash can, the contamination of the country's water supply with antibiotics, pesticides, and industrial chemicals is a problem that, while not limited to pets, certainly includes them.

These unwanted residues are known as "emerging pollutants of concern" or "​microconstituen​ts.​"​ When they enter the environment, even at very low levels, they can help contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, affect the central nervous systems of animals exposed to them, contaminate ground and surface water, and harm aquatic life such as fish and frogs.

The great outdoor cat debate

Because the indoor-outdoor cat debate is such a vast and contentious issue, it definitely deserves its own column. I promise it's coming in the future, but for now, let's just say that whichever side in this unending battle is right, there's no argument that free-roaming pet cats urinate and defecate in other people's backyards, vegetable gardens, and planter boxes, and cats can have at least strong localized impacts on wildlife. Cats who are kept indoors have a much smaller carbon paw print than cats who are free to roam, but, depending on location and who you ask, half or fewer of all cats live indoors all the time.

What you can do

I'm a pet writer, a lifelong dog and cat owner (although currently catless), and a passionate believer in the bond between humans and animals. All our decisions, including those we make about our pets, impact the planet in some way. In my next column, I'll cover the many ways that pet owners can reduce the carbon paw print of their dogs and cats, and one way in which pets actually reduce environmental damage and help make the planet a healthier and better place for all species.



Part 2:


what you can do


The environmental impact of pets, Part 2: what you can do

Easy Changes: Stuff

Want to lighten the load just a little? America's pet product manufacturers are ready to help. Welcome to the wonderful world of recycled and recyclable pet products!

The outside story. Pet food, pet toys, pet supplies, pet cleaning and grooming aids, pet medications -- pretty much all of it has one serious environmental problem, and that's packaging. Just as with products intended for humans, those seeking to be more eco-friendly should try alternatives such as bulk buying and using products that come in recycled and recyclable packaging.

Even cardboard boxes used for dry pet foods are not always recyclable, as some of them are lined with metal or plastic to prevent food spoilage. Check the bottom of the packaging for recycling information.

Always dispose of drugs, pesticides, shampoos, chemicals and the containers they come in safely. Federal guidelines for the safe disposal of human medications apply to veterinary drugs as well. Flea control products, as well as many pet shampoos and dips, need to be disposed of carefully as well, according to EPA, state, and local guidelines.


The inside story. Then there's the stuff itself. Fortunately, there's no shortage of pet toys and supplies made with recycled, degradable, and recyclable materials -- in fact, annual sales of "green" pet products are estimated to reach over $1 billion this year. So for your own pets, or the eco-friendly pet owners on your holiday shopping list, consider some of these toys and supplies:

• SmartyKat A complete line of cat toys, treats, and beds using recycled and recyclable materials. Some favorites include the SuperScratcher,​ as well as several play-​encouraging and interactive toys.

• PoochPlanet From the same folks who brought us SmartyKat, dog toys, treats, and beds made with recycled materials -- including a line of dog beds filled with recycled plastic bottles. According to the company, their customers kept 30 million recycled bottles out of the waste stream last year alone.

• West Paw Design This Montana-based company makes dog and cat toys and beds using recycled and organic materials, including the popular Organic Bumper Bed and the Eco Nap Mat.

• Planet Dog This company makes two toys out of pre-consumer recycled materials, and the toys themselves are recyclable. They also make collars, leashes, and harnesses using hemp, a sustainable, degradable, and recyclable fiber.

• Everyday Studio Cat Trees Designed by San Francisco artist Susan Kralovec, these cat trees are made of corrugated cardboard, with 35 percent minimum recycled content. Materials are non-toxic and low VOC.

• Earthbath Grooming Products They're free of phosphates and enzymes, and are biodegradable. They also sell in bulk for professional use, or for those who want to minimize packaging waste.


Where's it from? The pet food and toy recalls of products made in China have made most of us aware that many things we buy for ourselves and our pets are made all over the globe, and that not all countries have similar manufacturing standards. Even products made locally might contain ingredients and materials that came from all over the world, with the attendant ecological fuel cost.

Some companies, such as PlanetDog.com, have made a commitment to re-locating their manufacturing plants closer to their market. Others like West Paw started out with that commitment, and still make their line of dog and cat toys and beds in Bozeman, Montana. Always investigate where the products you buy for your pets are made, as well as how far the ingredients and materials used to make them had to travel to get there.

Pet service businesses. Businesses use stuff, too. If you're looking for an eco-friendly place to board your dogs and cats, San Francisco's Pet Camp was founded by two former EPA staffers, and is certified as a Green Business by the City and County of San Francisco. While they're the only pet-related business to receive such certification, eco-aware pet owners might want to check with other pet service businesses they use. Does your dogwalker use biodegradable poop bags? What kind of shampoo does your groomer use?

Bigger Changes: The Ins and Outs

First, the "out." Pet poop is polluting storm water and, when it is enshrouded in non-degradable plastic bags, taking up landfill space. High levels of canine-origin fecal bacteria have been found in bodies of water into which surface water drains, and sea otters have been sickened and killed by a parasite found in the feces of some cats. Many common brands of cat litter are non-degradable and are produced by strip mining. So what do you do with all that pet waste?


When it comes to pet poop, there are a few options.

Flush it. The best place to dispose of dog poop is the toilet, and yes, there are flushable pooper scooper bags.

For used cat litter, the situation is less clear. Some litters are produced specifically to be flushable, and for cats who don't carry the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, that's a good solution. But around half of all cats do, and their feces should not be flushed. Even those indoor cats who were infected in the distant past can, under some circumstances, still shed cysts in their feces, so before you decide your cat is one of those who don't, have your veterinarian run a T. gondii titer test on your cat. If the test is negative, and your cat has no opportunity to eat soil, prey or any form of raw meat, then you're probably safe to put flushable cat litter down the toilet.

Toss it. Big dogs mean big poop, and lugging dog waste back home and flushing it isn't always the most practical solution. The next-best course is to use a degradable scooper and toss the poop in the trash.

If your plumbing system can't handle flushable cat litter, or your cat is T. gondii positive, goes outdoors, eats raw meat, or doesn't like flushable cat litter, the next-best option is to use a degradable recycled litter and dispose of it in the trash in a degradable container such as a paper bag. Litters are available made from post-consumer newspaper, as well as degradable plant materials such as wheat, corn, and cellulose. Clay litters are produced by strip mining and do not degrade, so unless your cat is one of the ones who doesn't care about the environment but does care about his special litter not being replaced, they're not the best ecological choice.

Products that can make tossing pet waste more eco-friendly include:

• Biobags' Doggie Waste Bag, probably the most common choice.

• Scooperbox , a fully degradable cardboard scooper made from 100 percent recycled materials.

• Dispoz-a-scoop combines the best of both methods, and is a degradable plastic bag with a rigid cardboard frame.

• Feline Pine Made of reclaimed pine dust from lumber yards. Degradable. The company says the product is flushable but labels the product with a warning about T. gondii transmission.

• World's Best Cat Litter Degradable and flushable. Made from corn.

• Yesterday's News Made from recycled newspaper -- the company says a "significant portion" of that is post-consumer, and also says that "most" publishers today use safe inks, and their manufacturing process neutralizes all ink residues. Degradable but not flushable.

• SWheat Scoop Made from wheat. Degradable, and claims to be "the only litter on the market that's certified flushable in sewer or septic systems by the SGS U.S. Testing Company."

• Green Tea Leaves Litter Made of pre-consumer manufacturing waste, this litter contains just wood dust and green tea. It clumps, it controls odor, and it's degradable and flushable.



Let it rot. Can you compost pet waste? It depends on who you ask. Pretty much everyone recommends against using compost made with any fecal material on food crops, but studies done in Alaska found that properly handled compost made using dog poop got hot enough to break down into clean, usable compost.


If you want to try composting dog poop and used degradable (non-clay) cat litter in your own garden, CityFarmer.org has step-by-step instructions and even a video demonstration. You can also try one of a number of in-ground mini-septic systems such as the Doggie Dooley Pet Waste Disposal System.

Many cities around the world are trying different approaches to dog waste disposal. San Francisco is testing a method that doesn't just reduce the dog poop carbon pawprint, but creates energy instead of waste. Sunset Scavenger processes dog poop in a methane digester, where bacteria turn the waste into methane gas. Methane can be used just like natural gas, and can also be used to produce electricity.

Now, the in: Food. If supporting humane and sustainable agriculture with your shopping dollars is important to you, consider making your pets' food yourself, out of fresh, locally produced ingredients. That way, you can control the quality of the ingredients just as you do in your own diet, and also eliminate all the wasteful shipping, storing, packaging, and advertising that goes along with the multi-billion dollar pet food industry.

I've been making my pets' food for almost 23 years now, and it's easier than most people think, but if it's not for you, some commercial foods are more eco-friendly than others. It's not enough just to buy foods that claim to be "natural" or "healthy," but meats, grains, and vegetables that are produced in accordance with the regulations of the California Certified Organic Farmers and other independent third-party certifiers such as Oregon Tilth must meet certain standards of sustainability in their production. There are also small, local companies that may be producing pet foods using locally grown, sustainably produced ingredients. A few companies that offer sustainably raised and/or certified organic meats in their pet foods:


• By Nature Organics Organic products are certified by Oregon Tilth. They make both dry and canned cat and dog foods. Not all foods are organic, so read labels.

• Castor & Pollux Organics A complete line of both canned and dry cat and dog foods, plus treats. Products vary in how much of their content is organic. USDA Organic certification.

• Primal Pet Foods Their produce is certified organic, and they claim "All of our meats, poultry and game are purchased through farms and ranches that take pride in producing wholesome sources of protein through natural, sustainable agriculture." Their foods are sold frozen and are intended to be fed raw. They are located in the San Francisco area.

• Karma Organics Dry food and treats for dogs using 95 percent certified organic ingredients, including meat. USDA Organic certification.


Dogs and cats are both members of the order carnivora, and evolved eating the flesh of prey animals. Some people worried about the environmental impact of meat diets want to make their carnivorous pets into vegetarians or even vegans. Although a vegetarian diet is possible for both species, a vegan diet is at best controversial and at worst, dangerous for an obligate carnivore such as the cat.

For those who want what's best both for their pets and the planet, there's a middle road. Most of meat's bad rap belongs not to livestock raising per se, but to industrialized,​ high-volume farming practices. Locally, groups such as SF Raw seek out small, local farmers and ranchers who raise their livestock using sustainable methods such as pasturing and grass feeding, and practice environmentally​ careful agriculture, and buy their meat, eggs, and other products in bulk. This saves money as well as minimizing shipping. Groups like this one exist nationwide and are listed at DogAware.com.

Not convinced? Although dogs and cats are the most popular pets in America, there are many herbivorous animals who make wonderful companions. By no means should anyone give up their current pets, but if the consumption of meat is an important issue for you, consider a pet such as a rabbit in the future. Rabbits make wonderful companions, and there are many of them in need of homes. And, as pet columnist Gina Spadafori writes, ecologically, it doesn't get much better than a bunny:

A rabbit is better than a garbage disposal. It's true: You can give a rabbit all your green kitchen trimmings and he'll eat them with enthusiasm, no electricity required. Then he'll produce lovely waste that will super-charge your compost pile, providing you eventually with the most luscious rich compost for your garden. So you can grow more lovely vegetables, giving him the trimmings, and on it goes. The circle of life, without the petro-​chemicals!​

Indoor vs. outdoor cats. While this doesn't exactly match the "in and out" I was talking about, cats who roam freely do have a greater impact on the environment than cats who are kept indoors or only allowed into safe outdoor areas. Because it's a big topic, the indoor/outdoor cat debate and ideas for enriching the lives of indoor cats will be the subject of a future column. Nevertheless, it's a fact that keeping cats indoors with access to safe outdoor enclosures will protect wildlife from their predation, keep cat feces and urine from contaminating soil and water, and prevent your cats from contracting T. gondii. If your cats do roam, consider using a collar with a bell on it to alert birds to their presence. And while I've never tried it, there's also a cat bib that supposedly prevents cats from harming birds.

The Biggest Step of All: Thinking about it another way

It may seem that humans keeping and caring for companion animals puts a strain on the planet. But the balance isn't as unequal as it might seem at first glance. Sharing our lives and homes with animals has the potential to make us better environmental citizens -- and better people, too. I know, because that's what happened to me.

Back in the 80s, I was the typical over-achieving workaholic. I lived in San Francisco, stopped every morning for my triple-shot latte at the CafŽ Flore, and spent the whole day indoors working, and most of my evenings in clubs, theaters, and restaurants. My main form of recreation was shopping.

And then in 1991 I adopted my dog Colleen from the Peninsula Humane Society, and all of that changed. Every morning I went to the dog park or the beach, and every evening I walked her all around our quiet neighborhood. I started seeing things I'd never paid any attention to before: The stars. Flowers growing on the side of the road. Birds in the trees and the skies. On our trips to the Bay Area's state and county parks, we saw bobcats, coyotes, snakes, and jackrabbits. Once I even saw a mountain lion off in the distance. I began not just to see but to care about the natural world in a way I never had before.

Even if it can be challenging to reduce our pets' carbon pawprint, I'd argue that their net ecological impact is positive. That's because in seeing the world through the eyes of our animals we come to both know and care about the natural world. The saying "God invented the cat so that man might caress the tiger" doesn't only mean that we get to have a tiny bit of the wild in our laps at night; it also means that a little piece of our heart goes out into the wild.

Perhaps most importantly, the human-animal bond fosters compassion not just for our pets, but for all living creatures -- other humans included. An open heart is never a bad thing, for us, for the planet, and for the other people and animals with whom we share the earth.

One last word about recycling. My dog Colleen was one of the millions of second-hand animals who are waiting for a home in America's shelters, pounds, and rescue groups. They say love is better the second time around, so if you're ready to bring another pet into your home, perhaps you can practice some of what I've preached on an animal who needs a second chance.

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Posted by Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member



List of 245 animal advocates add yourself by leaving a comment






Thank you for veggie starter kit info!

VEGAN FUTURE


Starter Kit (PCRM)


Starter Kit for Teens (Animal Place)


Starter Kit (Mercy for Animals)


Guide to vegetarian eating (Humane Society of the US)


Guide to dairy- and egg-free shopping, cooking and eating (Animal Aid)









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Prop 2: Too little, too slow?

Compiled and reposted by

Kindness of Strangers CA Yes on 2 No on 8


i know many of us wish that no one ate meat and Prop 2 could have been much stronger. Heck i wish rescued dogs and cats did not eat meat, but most do.
See A peaceful healthy diet for your pets

So for no other reason i want more humane laws! i have met with representatives of the Humane Society and i know they too wish it could be much stronger.
But the truth is today this is the best we can get for now.
i have been an activist for 40 years and veggie for 36. In that time i have observed progress does happen, but very, very slowly. The only fast change is usually a natural disaster like an earthquake. And for those upset that it is going to be implementing so slowly many in the meat and egg industry saw the writing on the wall and already began implementing improvements for the animals some time ago.
As i said to one animal rights abolitionist, "For me if i were an animal in a factory farm, i would want this law and not to wait until the whole world becomes vegan!" (i am pretty healthy and think i will live a long time but i know it will not happen in my lifetime)!

It is indeed sad we cannot do better than Prop 2 but we had to work extremely hard to accomplish this little bit with ten million dollars of big lies on TV against it by the factory farm industry.
The factory farm industry fought this hard sending millions of dollars from all across the USA to California to defeat Prop 2 because they know how much it is going to cost them!

Just a few days ago a young friend sent me a message confessing he went back to eating meat.
i was so sad for him as he was so proud when he first became a vegetarian!

We vegans need to remember we are a minority and as much as we might want to dictate how others eat, we cannot.
Often we spend so much time with those who believe as we do we forget the rest of the world might not be ready for what we feel so strongly about.


Poll shows just 2. 8 percent of are vegetarians

Back in 1990 i read it was 3%. In a 2003 Vegetarian Resource Group Harris Interactive survey, 2.8 percent of those surveyed said they never eat meat, poultry, or fish/seafood. A majority of the vegetarians said they never eat meat, poultry, fish/seafood, dairy products, eggs, or honey. Thus, over half the vegetarians can be classified as vegans.


So if the polls are correct in 18 years the number of vegetarians has gone down! i personally know many former vegans.
One founded our old Sonoma County Vegetarian Society! i am not saying this to be negative or a downer, just realistic. The good news is for those that do not know, Prop 2 is only new in California, it has already been passed in other states.
And the Humane Society plans to continue well beyond California (which is of course a huge victory!):

Florida 2002 - First-ever ballot initiative to ban a cruel factory-farming practice in the U.S. This measure bans gestation crates in Florida.



Arizona 2006 - Arizona Voters overwhelming vote Yes on Proposition 204 to ban the use of gestation crates for breeding pigs and veal crates for calves in the state.


New Jersey 2008 -- Precedent-setting legal victory achieved when N.J.
Supreme Court unanimously rules that factory farming practices cannot be considered "humane" simply because they are widely used

_________________________________

Message from my young friend who is eating meat again

----------------- Original Message -----------------
From: [name deleted to protect his privacy]
Date: Nov 3, 2008 9:43 PM


"I still eat meat! I couldn't help myself. However, I do eat way less of it than I did. I love boars head meat! Its a brand. Only quality meat. When you have grown up all your life eating meat, its kind of hard to stop. The only thing I believe in is that animals should have rights when it comes to the conditions they live in. I'm like a dog! I eat it all. There animals too. I seen a show on Opera about where the animals come from, and the conditions they live in. I learned a lot. It was pretty good. I have a friend that hunts every one in a while. He just hunted him some hogs. He was just joking and said he would mail ya some meat. I hope Obama wins. I'll be voting for him. I went to a Jimmy Buffett rally concert for Obama that was for free. He sung Cheese Burger in paradise. He got me craving one, ha ha.
"

_________________________________

i could have sent him this and increased his pain and discomfort. However increasing guilt is not what i thought would be effective. He already knows about the pain and suffering. Just like smokers already know about cancer. What we eat is a very primal and personal thing, what we turn to for comfort. Change is hard for many people. So if we bully people to eat what we think they should eat, chances are they will tune us out.

Video of how lambs are castrated

_________________________________





My friend Kristen [vegan atheist] and i had a conversation about this bulletin another friend posted. We both agree we are glad for Prop 2 but wish for more.


Animal Awareness USA


"I am pretty upset at anyone who would not want animals to be able to *gulp* TURN AROUND in their cages. WHY is this taking so long to go into effect, and WHY is the penalty so small? We have a LONG way to go, apparently...

I support animal rights.
Welfare is not good enough!



"It prohibits ranchers from keeping chickens, veal calves and breeding pigs in pens that are too small for them to stand up, turn around or stretch.


The restrictions will take effect in 2015. Violations will carry a $1,000 fine.
"




_________________________________


So again i offer education as the answer. This is a message from my friend Dr.
Tatinha who is a cardiologist:




Thank you!

ღ.♥ Dr. MTKvis ♥. ღ



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Clogged Arteries Can Be Cleaned With Vegan Diet

Having high cholesterol means living with a greater risk of suffering a heart attack. For every 1 percent increase in the amount of cholesterol in the average American's blood, there is about a 2 percent increase in the risk of heart attack; conversely, every 1 percent reduction from the average cholesterol level reduces the risk by about 2 percent. Elevated cholesterol—anything above 150—promotes atherosclerosis, the buildup of cholesterol, fat, and cells in the arteries that feed the heart muscle. Incidentally, while the average cholesterol level in the U.S. is 210, the average vegetarian's cholesterol level is 161 and the average vegan's cholesterol level is 133... People with cholesterol levels below 150 are virtually assured of never having a heart attack, while nearly one-third of meat-eaters will die from one

Heart researchers have found that a vegan (pure vegetarian) diet is the best for lowering cholesterol levels. Plant foods contain no cholesterol, whereas meats, eggs, and dairy products contain large amounts of cholesterol, saturated fats, and concentrated protein—all harmful substances.. In contrast, soy protein has been proved to lower cholesterol, and the high fiber content of a vegetarian diet helps eliminate excess cholesterol from your digestive tract (meat, dairy products, and eggs have no fiber at all)

Even if you've been diagnosed with atherosclerosis, there's still hope.. Dr Dean Ornish has demonstrated that the disease can be reversed without drugs and their sometimes dangerous side effects. In a landmark study, he put a group of patients on a completely vegetarian diet with less than 10 percent fat. They also had to engage in moderate exercise. Within a year, the plaques that had been growing in their hearts for decades actually started to dissolve. Patients' chest pains disappeared, and their cholesterol levels dropped. Nearly 80 percent of people with severely clogged arteries who follow the Ornish program for at least a year are able to avoid bypass surgery and angioplasty.. Says Dr Ornish: "I don't understand why asking people to eat a well-balanced vegetarian diet is considered drastic, while it's medically conservative to cut people open or put them on powerful cholesterol-lowering drugs for the rest of their lives"

Although fish and fish-oil capsules have been promoted for their omega-3 fatty acids as a means of lowering heart-disease risk, these acids have highly unstable molecules that decompose quickly and unleash free radicals. Free radicals are damaging to living tissues and cells, but that damage can be prevented by antioxidants. The kinds of fatty acids found in vegetables, fruits, and beans lower free-radical activity while increasing antioxidant levels. When you choose vegetarian foods, you naturally and safely lower your risk for heart disease and other serious illnesses.. You get twice the level of protection every time you eat..

Read more: www. goveg. com

Other sources with medical articles published:

* http://content. nejm. org

* http://www. americanheart. org














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ღ.♥ Dr. MTKvis ♥. ღ

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Thank you!

VeganFuture


VeganFuture

Essential book for vegan shoppers

The 8th edition of the Animal Free Shopper is here!

Containing extensive listings of vegan food, drinks, cosmetics, home products and lots more, this really is an essential purchase.

Priced at just £4.99 sterling, the pocket-sized book is published by the Vegan Society and is aimed primarily at vegans in the United Kingdom.

You can order the book from the website of the Vegan Society

Other recommended Vegan Society products

The Vegan Society quarterly magazine - 4 issues - (£10 UK, £15 Europe, £17 rest of world)
Always a fantastic read, full of informative and inspiring stories, product reviews, contact listings, etc

Vegan Society membership for 1 year (including 4 issues of The Vegan magazine)
(£21 UK, £26 Europe, £28 rest of world)

Veg 1 - 90 multi-vitamin tablets - £4.
99
Great value and with a yummy blackcurrant flavour, these 1-a-day tablets provide EU recommended daily allowances (RDAs) of Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Folic Acid, Iodine and Selenium

Vegan Nutrition Chart - £3.
50
A handy, laminated wall display which lists vegan sources of minerals and vitamins. It measures 18cm x 88cm and has cool colourful illustrations.

Vegan Enamel Badge - £1.
45
This badge is a must-have accessory! Wear it with pride!

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Compiled and posted by Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member

List of 245 animal advocates add yourself by leaving a comment





Starter Kit (PCRM)


Starter Kit for Teens (Animal Place)


Starter Kit (Mercy for Animals)


Guide to vegetarian eating (Humane Society of the US)


Guide to dairy- and egg-free shopping, cooking and eating (Animal Aid)




Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member usually does environmental and nutritional education work through Donate here to Kindness of Strangers a project of the 501 (c) 3 non-profit International Humanities Center

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i received a request from a good friend whose beloved dog has cancer asking for information on natural treatment and prevention. (Since then i have received several messages, he is doing better with chemotherapy, however i had dinner last night with a friends whose wife healed herself entirely (besides the lumpectomy) with raw food, zeolite, yoga, pilates and a few other alternative therapies i cannot recall. Have been planning to interview her for over a year and i will write about her as soon as i can).
(i also take the supplement Zeolite, and the world renowned physician and my real life friend, (and top friend Gabriel) Gabriel Cousins M.D. recommends it. It absorbs heavy metals but it cannot be used during chemotherapy, it is suppose to be very helpful with cancer. Also XanGo is suppose to be very helpful, i took it for a year and loved it but the packaging was full of environmentally unfriendly styrofoam and it is very expensive. Although i cannot legally say XanGo cures cancer, i can say i personally know people with cancer who believe they have benefited greatly from using it.


i recently found the wonderful holistic health care library at a site i buy natural pet care products from. i have called the company and found the people kind, knowledgeable, and helpful, even emailing me information for a friend here on mange complete with links! Namasté, nan

Wonderful Holistic Health Care Library!

For more information on cancer in dogs and cats see:
Natural Pet Care: Questions and answers dogs and cats with cancer


Source of Part 1:
Holistic Cancer Prevention & Care in Your Pet

Holistic Cancer Prevention & Care in Your Pet

(Please note: Kindness has reproduced the whole article except for links to specific products, which are in italics, to learn more about the products go to the source)

by Dr. Larry Siegler*

Cancer is the most feared diagnosis among pet owners because it is so often fatal and the conventional treatments so debilitating. More than 50% of dogs and cats over the age of 10 will be diagnosed with cancer, and the incidence of cancer in younger animals is growing. As responsible guardians of our faithful companions it is important to understand the risk factors that contribute to the development of cancer and to learn all we can about prevention.

Cancer is not like a contagious disease — there is no bacterium or virus at fault for the animal's ill health, no outside invader has entered the system. Cancer is most often the result of years (and even generations) of substandard nutrition and exposure to toxins in the food and the environment, along with conventional medical treatments that can degrade the immune system, and stress–compounded in many cases by inbreeding creating genetic predispositions to ill health. Simply put-cancer is the result of an overtaxed system–the body can no longer detoxify or heal itself.

Prevention and treatment start with the same components:

• Optimal diet & nutrition
• Clean, purified water
• Limit the number of vaccinations for cancer prevention
• Eliminate vaccinations if your pet has been diagnosed with cancer
• Reduce indoor air pollution & yard pollution
• Minimize electromagnetic radiation
• Use a safe, non-toxic flea control program
• Minimize stress
• Provide adequate exercise

Diet
Any cancer prevention or treatment program begins with diet. Nothing will go farther in promoting health than a home-prepared diet of fresh, preferably organic, whole foods. When the body is supported with the building blocks needed to maintain healthy cells and repair damaged ones, healing from within can begin. Holistic veterinarians will frequently recommend a diet that is low-carbohydrate, moderate protein, and moderate to high fat for cancer patients. Cancer cells utilize glucose from carbohydrates as fuel, so a low carbohydrate diet can be helpful in fighting cancer. Many cancer cells cannot utilize fat as an energy source, and fat in the diet can help combat weight loss as well.

For dogs a diet of roughly 50% meat, and 40–50% non-starchy vegetables, with 10% or less whole grains can be optimal. Fish oils should be added to provide additional fat–omega 3 fats are best and are abundant in fish oil. For cats a diet of 80% meat and 20% non-starchy vegetables is recommended–again with fish oil added for additional fat. For both dogs and cats, proper calcium and a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement should be part of the daily nutrition as well.

When a home-prepared diet is just not possible, try ready made (frozen) raw food, freeze dried or dehydrated diets, or a very high-quality canned food without grains:

Frozen Raw Food
Freeze Dried
Dehydrated Food
High Quality Canned Foods for Dogs - Choose grain-free or low grain varieties, add fresh vegetables when possible.
High Quality Canned Foods for Cats - Choose grain-free varieties.

If cooked or processed foods must be used, adding finely ground fresh vegetables or freshly juiced vegetables can be helpful. Dark leafy greens, broccoli, and carrots contain antioxidants that are beneficial in fighting cancer, as well as providing enzymes to help break down the food.

For additional information about the benefits of fresh food and a healthy diet please read What You Need to Know About Your Pet's Food and All About Raw Food.

Water
Depending on where you live, the tap water can be anywhere from almost acceptable to fairly toxic. It is best to avoid tap water altogether. The fluoride and chlorine added are a stress to the animal's already overtaxed detoxification system. Filtered water is best, followed by bottled water and spring water. The animal's water needs to be kept clean and fresh so they will drink as much as possible to help flush toxins out of the system. If you have a cat who is not a great water drinker, it may be a good idea to try one of the flowing-water style waterers: Drinkwell Pet Fountain. Raw food is a great source of moisture as well and is the source of hydration for most wild cats.

Vaccinations
Many holistic veterinarians agree that over-vaccination is a significant contributor to the rising rates of chronic disease and cancer in cats and dogs. A limited vaccine program is highly recommended–and is especially important if your companion belongs to any of the breeds known to be more susceptible to cancer and chronic diseases. If your veterinarian is not supportive, then find a veterinarian who will agree to a limited vaccination schedule. Do not succumb to the pressures of a professional who is not willing to look at the overwhelming evidence of the problems of over-vaccination.

Any animal diagnosed with cancer or exhibiting signs of a weakened immune system should not be vaccinated at all. For more information about limited vaccination schedules please read The Truth About Pet Vaccinations.

Indoor Air and Yard Pollution
We don't often think about the air in our homes as a source of toxins, but for our companions' sake it is important to examine our home and yard care practices. Cleaning chemicals are the first place to look: if the floor cleaner you use contains toxic chemicals (as most do), and your companion's nose is continually close to that floor then their system is likely having to detox after every cleaning. Plug-in air fresheners are popular with some pet owners to help cover up that "pet" smell–but they are a constant source of petrochemicals in the air our companions breath. Choose more natural cleaning products and air fresheners and this can go a long way to limiting the toxins your companion has to deal with on a daily basis.Non-toxic Stain and Odor Control
The yard is another place to focus on the elimination of toxic exposure to our companions. Chemical fertilizers and other lawn products should be eliminated. There are abundant alternatives available now that are organic and natural and will not add to the burden on our companions' overtaxed systems. Here is a great place to look: Gardens Alive Online and Catalog Store.

[note Kindness of Strangers loves and uses Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery to ship my beneficial nematodes and get natural gardening advice via phone]

Electromagnetic Radiation
There is some very interesting research that has shown a connection between electromagnetic radiation and cellular changes that can lead to cancer. Sources of electromagnetic radiation include electrical cords & outlets, cordless and cellular phones, computer monitors, and televisions. This is especially relevant for cats since they love to lounge in warm places like the top of the TV or computer monitor. Keep your companion's bed away from electrical components as well.

Flea Control
Spot on flea control products such as Advantage, Frontline and Revolution or pills such as Sentinel are pesticides. These pesticides permeate the animal's system and are found in the organs, the urine and the feces. The cumulative effect of month after month and year after year of trying to detoxify systemic pesticides would tax even the healthiest cat or dog's system. Add in all the other factors draining the immune system of the animal and they hardly stand a chance of avoiding some type of chronic disease or cancer.

Effective flea control does not have to be toxic. There are effective non-toxic alternatives. They take slightly more effort than putting a spot of pesticide on your companion's skin, but they are so well worth it in the long-term health of your friend. For more information please read: The Natural Approach to Flea Control [also see Kindness's blog link below].

Stress
You may take a look at the cat sprawled in a patch of sunlight on the sofa or the dog curled up at your feet and wonder "what stress?" Yet many of our companions experience stress as much or more than we do. Have you ever known a dog with separation anxiety? They are feeling extreme stress for a good portion of every day if their guardian goes out of the home for work. Cats in multiple cat households often become stressed over hierarchies and turf disputes. And both cats and dogs are very responsive to the stress levels of their guardians–the more stressed you are the more your cat or dog feels and absorbs that stress. They are totally dependent on you for the signals of the "pack leader" (or in the case of cats – for signs of what goes on beyond their small indoor world)–and if the pack leader is giving off the signal that "life is not safe and there is danger lurking somewhere just out of sight," then the animal feels stressed.

For dogs one of the best ways to reduce their own stress is proper training. EVERY puppy should go through a "puppy class" at the very least. Even when you adopt an older dog both you and the dog can benefit from a few sessions with a good behaviorist. A good trainer helps you interpret the dog's behavior and teaches you how to communicate in ways that your dog can understand. A well trained dog is a secure dog–and a much safer one as well.

Cats are, of course, not so easily trained. But you can learn to interpret their subtle behavior patterns for signs of stress and look for ways to reduce that stress. There are books and organizations that can help. See: www.catsinternational.org/articles and www.sspca.org/CatBehavior.html.

Exercise
You need it, your pets need it. It's one of the best ways to combat stress and is also crucial for the health of the body–human, dog or cat. Play is even better as it provides both exercise and the joy of fun and laughter. There is nothing more hilarious than the antics of a cat chasing a laser beam or a toy at the end of a string. Cats need exercise–so if Fluffy doesn't like to play–try a harness and go for walks.

Dogs are a bit easier to exercise and a brisk walk can do you both good. A play date with another dog or a romp at the dog park is great exercise and can provide stress relief in the social interaction. Some clients insist that their dogs are "house dogs" and don't like to spend time outside. If that is the case, then play fetch with them in the house or find some way to give them some exercise every day. It is important for digestive health, detoxification, and immune health as well as muscle tone and respiratory health.

Treating Cancer
If you are faced with the diagnosis of cancer in your beloved companion, there are many difficult choices to be made. These choices are best made after you have educated yourself about all the options available–both conventional and holistic or complementary. You will surely forget to ask many important questions when you first hear the diagnosis, so make sure to schedule a follow up visit with your veterinarian to ask the multitude of questions that are likely to arise. Ask for a referral to an oncologist who can answer questions about conventional treatment methods. Find a holistic veterinarian either in your area or one who will provide phone consultations regarding alternative cancer treatments. Cancer is serious business and a team approach is often best.

For many cancer patients, the conventional treatment options are as bad, or worse than the cancer itself. In these cases, holistic treatment can at least offer the chance for a better quality of life even if it cannot cure the cancer. Holistic care is about providing the animal with the resources its body needs to heal from within. Every case is different. There is no one way to treat any type of cancer. There are some basic principles as discussed above that can help no matter what type of cancer the animal has. There are also some basic immune boosting and cancer fighting supplements that can help in many cases.

We have already discussed the importance of diet. Digestive enzymes (for Dogs and Cats) are also an important component to help the animal's system break down and more easily absorb the urgently needed nutrients in the food. Essential Fatty Acids (for Dogs and Cats) are crucial as well.


Immune Support Complexes
These will typically combine medicinal mushrooms, some antioxidants, herbs that boost immunity such as astragalus, cats claw, pau d'arco, Echinacea or green tea. The following supplements are often utilized in the treatment of a wide variety of cancers and help to boost the immune system, act as antioxidants or aid in detoxification:

Only Natural Pet Immune Strengthener is a powerful immune support complex that includes medicinal mushrooms, antioxidants and Cat's Claw along with other herbs to help with chronic disease and cancer.

CAS Options by Genesis Resources is an immune building supplement that includes mushrooms and antioxidants that have been shown to boost the immune system.

Pet Alive C-Caps is another option containing astragalus, milk thistle and other tonic herbs for cancer prevention and treatment.

The Chinese Herbal formulas Power Mushrooms and Astra 8 are a good immune boosting combination also.

For cats and small dogs where a liquid supplement may be more easily administered, Vetri-Science Maitake-DMG liquid is a powerful immune enhancer.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants help prevent oxidation and increase immune function. They act as scavengers, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage by destroying free radicals and playing an important role in cancer prevention and control. Vitamins A, C and E are the most commonly known antioxidants. Other powerful antioxidants include green tea, selenium, Co-Enzyme Q10, bioflavonoids, N-acetylcysteine, proanthocyanidins (pycnogenol) typically derived from grape seed extract or pine bark, quercetin, soy isoflavones, and zinc.

In addition to one of the above immune support complexes, additional antioxidants can be provided most easily in a combination form:
Seven Forest's Quercenol
Genesis Resources Canine Antioxidant or Feline Antioxidant

Vetri-Science Cell Advance

Antioxidants are controversial with some oncologists, so if you are also pursuing conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, check with your veterinarian before giving additional antioxidants.

For a more complete discussion of immune support, please see: Building a Healthy Immune System by Dr. Larry Siegler

Studies utilizing IP6 with inositol have revealed significant anticancer activity with a variety of tumor types, possibly via inhibition of tumor cell growth and differentiation. Cellular Forte by PhytoPharmica is another good supplement for fighting cancer and can be given in addition to immune boosters and antioxidants:

Cleansing and Detoxifying
Since toxins in the body contribute significantly to the degradation of the immune system, detoxification is an important component in rebuilding the immune system. There are two formulas widely used in cancer care–the Essiac Formula and the Hoxsey Formula. Both are named for the original formulators of the herbal compounds, (although Essiac is Caisse, the formulator's last name, spelled backwards).

Only Natural Pet BSST Cancer Formula is based on the widely used Essiac Formula and has been shown to be helpful in many types of cancer.

Only Natural Pet Blood and System Cleanser is based on the Hoxsey Formula, which is also widely used for cleansing the body when cancer is present.

Additional Supplements

Consider adding 4-Life Transfer factor, a powerful immune support formula, to your companion's regimen. This is not available at Only Natural Pet Store yet, but here is a link to the 4-Life company page where you can order directly:
www.4life.com/products/AnimalHealth/index.html. (note this link does not work contact source directly)

Artemisinin has been the subject of much discussion regarding cancer care recently. It is a derivative of Artemesia, a simple plant that grows in Southeast Asia. Originally used as an anti-malaria drug, it was tested by researchers at the University of Washington for it's effectiveness against cancer. The results have been very promising with impressive tumor reduction outcomes, and more research is being conducted.

The amino acids L-Arginine and L-Glutamine are often helpful in fighting cancer. L-Arginine appears to enhance immune function and may inhibit the growth of some tumors. It can be given at a dose of 500 – 3000 mg per day. L-Glutamine may also inhibit tumor growth and helps in protecting the gastrointestinal system and combat the physical wasting and loss of muscle mass seen in some cancer patients.

Curcumin, from the Indian spice turmeric, is another supplement used frequently as it inhibits tumor growth and metastasis and tends to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. The dosage is typically 15 to 20 mg per pound of body weight daily (150 – 200 mg for cats, increasing appropriately for larger animals).

Homeopathy
Constitutional homeopathy is often very helpful in treating cancer. I use homeopathy for almost all cancer patients. Some homeopaths claim they can cure some cancers with homeopathy alone. Considering there are no side effects and it is very easy to administer, it should be a part of any cancer fighting regimen. Treatment is very specific to each individual and must be guided by a veterinarian trained in homeopathy. You can locate one through the The Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture is very helpful for pain relief in cancer patients. It can stimulate the immune system and assist in promoting detoxification as well. For a list of practitioners in your area see the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association referral directory or the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society.

While cancer is most certainly a frightening diagnosis, there is much that can be done to both improve the quality of your companion's life and even extend the amount of time you have with him or her. Keep in mind that it is crucial to remain as optimistic as possible. Remember - your companion senses your stress. If you view your dog or cat as a "cancer patient" or a problem to be solved they will not fair as well as if you see them as your beloved companion who enhances your quality of life. All of the therapies discussed will go farther when administered with a healthy dose of love and affection.

Additional Links:

Good information about home prepared raw diets–but not cancer specific:

Dog Aware - www.dogaware.com
Pet Grub (some misinformation regarding garlic and other details, but good general information) - www.pet-grub.com
For cats: Cat Nutrition - www.catnutrition.org
and Holisticat - www.holisticat.com/why-raw.html


More information on limited vaccine protocols:

www.altvetmed.org/pages/articles.html


Danger of Pet Vaccination: Adverse Reactions to routine vaccinations

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*Dr. Larry Siegler graduated from Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine in New York in 1980. After Graduation, Dr. Siegler went through an internship program for 14 months at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1984-1985 he completed a residency in Internal Medicine at the Veterinary Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania.

Following these academic studies, he worked for almost 10 years in San Francisco and Marin County where in 1992 his whole focus and direction in health care changed. Dr. Siegler became certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and has also completed the IVAS Chinese Herbal Course. In 1996, Dr. Siegler completed Dr. Richard Pitcairn's Professional Veterinary Homeopathy course and also completed the Advanced Homeopathy course. He continues to study Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy with various teachers. A member of the Veterinary Botanical Medical Association, Dr. Siegler also incorporates Western herbs when appropriate.

Dr. Siegler is passionate about animal welfare. He was on the board of directors for PAWS for three years and volunteered at Pasado's Safe Haven for homeless and abused animals for several years.

His practice is one of integrating the modalities to maintain the health of his patients. Nutrition (biologically appropriate raw food), and minimizing vaccines are stressed. With his knowledge of Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Western Herbs, Bach Flowers, supplements and allopathic medicine, the best pathway towards health can be found for your animal companion.

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Part 2 by
Kindness of Strangers
What we can do in a toxic world to protect our little loved ones

Animals are small, like children they are more vulnerable to toxins, and they are also closer to the ground, dogs and cats noses pick up toxins in carpets, and floors much more easily than a human being. We removed our carpet and replaced with beautiful faux non toxic painted "marble" floors.

See:
Paint a Natural, Non-toxic, Green Floor, links, info, products

Of course prevention is the best thing, but there are certain things we cannot protect them from; i actually wash my rescued dog's balls. (The ones they play with not the ones we had surgically removed!) after we go out. And i do not let them run or play in areas were cars have deposited toxins. However i still worry that the grass they love to play in at the nearby school has been treated with toxins (imagine children are exposed too!) We do not use any toxins in our home, and we remove our shoes before entering the house.

For natural flea control information that really worked with a my severely allergic rescued cat see:

Tips for natural flea, tick and insect control
Homemade Pet Food: more economical, ecological, healthy, and easy!
i make my own food for all my rescued pets and it is far more economical, ecological, and easy, and they are amazingly healthy! i have personally seen my severely flea allergic cat go from a bloody mess to having a mild problem using no toxics in well over a year and a half! I have included below the blog where i discuss an easy organic diet i make for my rescued cats and dogs. Sadly as you will see from the blog feeding your pets garlic as a flea control method, is no longer recommended as onions, garlic, and chives in all forms (dry, raw, cooked) contain thiosulphate, which can irritate the gastrointestinal system of your dog and is very dangerous to cats. A relatively high dosage (600-800 grams) in one meal or spread apart over a few days can damage red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia)


Feeding dogs and cats nutritional yeast is tempting as most of my pets love it, however, however this cheap form of B complex vitamins can lead to allergies in many pets, and it is preferable to give them the B vitamins instead, (read on for more info):

My good friends at www. brighthaven. org senior and disabled nutritional information and my friends at www. feedthis. com who delivers fresh ground, organic pre-frozen veggies to my door every other week and can give you more helpful information.



FeedThis. com says (and i have experienced, it is tempting to feed the the cheaper (and more Earth friendly and humane) grains rather than meat, and have the illusion you are saving money but if you observe their poop you will see they do not digest it): "No grains…No animal would ever choose in the wild to eat cooked grains… Grains are a cheap filler to make your pet and the kibble company execs pockets feel full… And like with humans and carbs they become addicted… Also grains plus yeast (see below) equals alcohol…hmmmm…I wonder if this can explain some of the bad behavior we see… Also in large breeds grain will stretch the stomach and loosen the muscles that hold the stomach in place and can cause bloat as well as the stomach or other organs to twist or fold (torsion) Lastly grains deposit a mucous in the intestinal tract…A beautiful environment for parasites to grow and thrive… Sometimes the intestines are so badly coated with mucous your pet may not get most of the nutrients in their food and are begging for more or eating stools that they find a the dog park etc

No Yeast if you have an itchy dog or a dog with runny eyes or smelly ears this is probably why"

A peaceful healthy diet for your pets



Dr. Shawn Messonnier, DVM recommends in the article below:
Using enzemes to build immune system




http://www. amazon. com/Natural-Guide-Preventing-Treating-Cancer/dp/1577315197

"In this easy-to-use guide, Dr. Shawn Messonnier offers the latest research on both treating new diagnoses of cancer and preventing the disease before it takes the life of a beloved family pet. He details a program that includes complementary therapies such as antioxidants, herbal preparations, homeopathic remedies, raw food, glandular supplements, and acupuncture. He stresses that while no one therapy is right for every pet, boosting the immune system is an excellent complement to conventional therapies like radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, as well as an important preventive program for healthy dogs. Presenting the reader with clinical studies supporting these treatments, or with his own extensive clinical experience where studies are not yet available, Dr. Messonnier gives readers an objective and up-to-date survey, complete with the pros and cons of each treatment, of all the integrative options available for treating and preventing cancer in dogs."

Also check out this book and the links on my friend's Brighthaven's site:

To learn more about natural pet care i suggest visiting my friends at www. brighthaven. org senior and disabled nutritional information The kitty over 30 years old has passed one but just heard from Gail Pope the founder, they have six cats over 20 years old! 20 years old Dafne-Ann and Eric; around 23 years old, Chester and Woody; Oliver 25ish and Lucy around 26 (she said she would need to check her records for exact ages).

And i also recommend this book:


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Source of Part 3
Wonderful myspace friends!


Emily - DENNIS FOR CONGRESS 2008

"Cancer in animals is on the increase and while we may never pinpoint the exact causes in each case, there is no denying that processed foods and exposure to pesticides play a huge part in this. Even if you don't use any chemicals on your property, your dog will be exposed to them on walks and you will also track them back into your house on your shoes exposing your animals and children to them. Commonly used lawn and garden pesticides have been found to drift up to 3 miles and to also enter people's homes through gaps in windows and doors. It's time to take a stand against these silent killers many of which are known carcinogens and hormone disruptors."

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Thank you Mama Kimberly ♥'s animals!

(Kindness is sorry i just could not squeeze her excellent bulletin in however have included her link to info and all her bulletins (which i highly recommend).

Isn't it worth of minute if you can help your pet, at home, naturally? To find out more, spare a minute for your furred family member

CLICK HERE:
http://www. veterinarysecretsrevealed. com/ebook/index_. php
Show All Bulletins Mama Kimberly ♥'s animals Has Posted

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Thank you for the link Becca

Homemade Food Recipes to Save Your Dog's Life And Save Some Money!
www.i-love-dogs.com/dog-food-recipes. html

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Thank you!
KarLA c0w


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Part 4 from the blog of
Pet Cancer Support ~In Memory of Klausie's

Diet For Dogs With Cancer Links

The information here is not intended to replace the advice of a veterinary professional, and is for informational purposes only. Please seek the advice of your veterinarian or a veterinary specialist before giving your dog any supplements or pursuing any alternative cancer therapies and diet.
I might suggest though finding a holistic vet because conventional vets don't push nor tell you about holistic alternatives.
Diet for Dogs with Cancer

Dog Cancer Diet Canine Cancer Treatment

Dog Cancer Treatments, K-9 Immunity, K-9 Omega, K-9 Transfer Factor, Books and More by K9Medicinals.com

http://www.caninecancerawareness.org/html/Diet.html

Yahoo Group Totally Home Cooking

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Totally_Home_Cooking

Description

Dogs eating people food! Have we gone crazy? No, Totally Homecooking is all about cooking for our dogs, creating healthy, nutritious and balanced meals. Just like us every dog is an individual and we want to raise them as healthfully as possible.

We will assist you in understanding what it takes to DEVELOP a recipe for your healthy adult dog that is balanced to their needs. NO recipes are offered. If you want to find out how and what to feed your dog correctly and not just table scraps that will lead to imbalances nutritionally, we are here to assist. Our files will offer you instructions on what the scientific community considers to be recommended daily allowances for your dog of vitamins and minerals as well as tutorials for using free internet nutritional software.

Published recipes in books and on the internet usually will not provide a balance of nutrients that will sustain a dog throughout their lives. Just another reason to learn what your dog needs and how you can provide it yourself.

Co-owner of group has a diploma in Advanced Canine Nutrition from Companion Animal Science Institute.

Posts regarding topics other than food related need approval of owner/moderator.

Please Note: This is a NO spam list- the "NO SPAM" rule is strictly enforced.

Disclaimer: Any information provided on this site is not intended to replace advice received by your veterinarian. Changes to your dog's diet should be done under the supervision of the veterinarian. This list assumes no liability with regards to any issues that may arise from the information that may be provided and followed. It is for casual informative purposes only.

Lastly: This list is intended for healthy adult dogs as we can not offer advice on home cooking for dogs with medical issues due to their varying complexities.

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Yahoo Group K9 Kitchen
Description
This list discusses raw and cooked canine diets with a focus on individual needs. While we encourage a proactive approach for healthy dogs and puppies, we also support the unique requirements of breeding dogs, canine athletes and dogs battling cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, IBD, colitis, allergies, skin problems, heart disease, pancreatitis, bladder stones, thyroid disease and other disorders. Other topics include appropriate nutritional supplements based on dietary requirements, treat recipes, reading material and holistic, traditional and complimentary approaches. Whether your dogs are already on a raw diet, home-cooked diet or you're searching in order to learn more, we welcome and encourage you to share your experiences, ask questions and help others. Our community shows respect for the uniqueness of dogs and people that make diet diversity a must. To that end, we maintain a non flaming environment.

Click the below links to visit their websites.

Magic Bullet Fund. Org
MySpace Magic Bullet Fund
Those who are able to provide treatment for their pups with cancer are very fortunate. Those who cannot need our help! MISSION STATEMENT Canine cancer treatment requires a substantial outlay of financial resources, ranging on average between $600 and $6,000 per dog. Many dog owners cannot support such a large unanticipated outlay. To offer help to such individuals and their dogs, The Magic Bullet Fund provides financial assistance to pay for canine cancer treatments and medicines when the owners cannot. With our financial sponsorship, the canines we serve receive state-of-the-art veterinary cancer support for their conditions. The Fund's mission is to provide cancer treatment for dogs whose caretakers are unable to provide treatment; dogs who would not have cancer treatment at all without our assistance. The Fund's secondary mission is to heighten public awareness about canine cancer through our ongoing educational efforts. We firmly believe that this work will result in measurable improvement in both canine cancer prevention and early canine cancer detection. The Magic Bullet Fund is a program of the Perseus Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports research and public education about cancer in companion animals. All donations are tax deductible.



http://www. paws4acure. org/

Paws for a cure is a walk to get donations for the magic Bullet Fund.

The Magic Bullet Fund provides financial assistance to pay for canine cancer treatments and medicines when the owners cannot. With their financial sponsorship, the canines they serve receive state-of-the-art veterinary cancer support for their conditions. The Fund's mission is to provide cancer treatment for dogs whose caretakers are unable to provide treatment; dogs who would not have cancer treatment at all without the Magic Bullet Fund's assistance.


The Fund's secondary mission is to heighten public awareness about canine cancer through our ongoing educational efforts. The Magic Bullet Fund firmly believe that this work will result in measurable improvement in both canine cancer prevention and early canine cancer detection. The Magic Bullet Fund is a program of the Perseus Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports research and public education about cancer in companion animals.



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Part 5 thank you!
Mama Kimberly ♥'s animals!
Voices For Ella
Help save my Gizzmo!
zeus (skipper) ~waiting for biopsy results~
QUINCY, LAIKA & BRODY - RIP SWEET EDDIE POTATO
"Trio of Pups"~RIP Klausie U R My Angel


JOIN Beloved Pet Cancer Support Community


JOIN Beloved Pet Cancer Support Community


Ten Common Signs of Cancer in Small Animals

1.
Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
2.
Sores that do not heal
3.
Weight loss
4.
Loss of appetite
5.
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6.
Offensive odor
7.
Difficulty eating or swallowing
8.
Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9.
Persistent lameness or stiffness
10.
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating



Disclaimer
Beloved Pet Cancer Support Communitie's website is not intended to replace the advice of a veterinary professional, and is for informational purposes only. Please seek the advice of your veterinarian or a veterinary specialist before giving your dog any supplements or pursuing any alternative cancer therapies.

Beloved Pet Cancer Support Communitie's website is also intended to be a place to come and share your stories and connect with others animal lovers who lost a pet to cancer or are fighting a battle with cancer.


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Compiled and posted by Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member




Kindness of Strangers E_CO Member usually does environmental and nutritional education work through Donate here to Kindness of Strangers a project of the 501 (c) 3 non-profit International Humanities Center

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Several people have left comments at the blog with cancer formulas they recommend Kindness is allowing all comments at the blog go to:

Preventing and treating cancer holistically in dogs and cats