Pets Care

Unforeseen Dangers of Spring

With warmer spring weather arriving in the next few weeks, pet owners face an entire new set of challenges. While your pet was likely cooped up inside during the winter, the change in climate will soon likely bring your pet outdoors—also exposing it to potential health hazards.

Nearly every system in your pet’s body can be affected by the change in season, but preventative measures can be taken to ensure your pet stays safe and healthy while frolicking in the great outdoors!

When unleashing your pet into the yard, park, or other place of recreation, be sure to err on the side of caution regarding the territory they investigate. Puppies especially tend to mistake blooms, leaves, and branches as potential chew toys, which can disrupt digestive systems or even be poisonous.

To settle sensitive stomachs and restore health after a slip-up, try a detoxifying supplement or effective natural tonic to support liver health. Natural remedies to promote digestive health and balance can go a long way in avoiding digestive upsets in the first place.

The abundance of fresh foliage also brings the additional threat of infection-transmitting insects, as well as an increased likelihood of scrapes and cuts from thorns and rough edges.

It is important to protect your pet against fleas and ticks and relieve bites from existing buggers promptly to lessen the risk of serious complications . To soothe, heal, and help prevent infection from minor bruises and sores, attend to your pet promptly. Check their paws after a walk or excursion for embedded rocks, stones, or other elements that could cause distress if ignored.

Building a strong and healthy skin and coat can help promote the natural immune response of the skin when injured to protect against problems.

In addition to these ailments more likely to affect animals, pets experience many similar conditions as us when we warm weather arrives, as well.

Allergies and behavior issues can emerge as spring fever hits, causing upset for both your pet and you! To help promote healthy respiratory health in your pet, take note of identifying allergy triggers, and try to lessen your pet’s interaction with these sources. Easing your pet’s discomfort can help avoid potential flare-ups of disobedience and aggression.

While heat may be the culprit as instinct interferes with training, sometimes animals react negatively to these controllable ailments. Either way, settling nerves before the onset of extreme summer heat can minimize potentially more destructive behaviors to come.

It is also possible that the added activity with more outdoor play can be contributing to increased muscle and joint pain, which may be exhibited by a disruptive, unusual demeanor.

While it can be a struggle to find balance between having fun with your pet and minimizing distractions that can interrupt carefree playtime, following these simple lifestyle tips can provide much needed support and keep your pet full of vitality and good health!

The following herbal products are very effective in promoting protection and relief from common complaints.

* Digestive Support- Treat digestive conditions and improve digestive functioning
* DetoxPlus - Cleanse the system and eliminate toxins from the body
* LiverAid - Stimulate and improve liver functioning and prevents disease
* RunniPoo Relief - Maintain healthy digestion and bowel functioning
* Parasite Dr. - Expel parasites and heal digestive infection
* Aggression Formula - Curb restlessness and aggressive behavior
* PetCalm - Effectively reduce stress and anxiety while promoting relaxation
* Problem Pet Solution - Reduce hyperactivity and restlessness, promote calmness
* AmazaPet - Improve respiratory function and reduce asthmatic symptoms
* Respo-K - Prevent colds and respiratory ailments
* Clenzor - Clean and disinfect wounds and skin irritation
* FleaDerm - Relieve irritation and itching due to flea and tick bites
* Muscle and Joint Support - Relieve stiffness in swollen joints, reduce pain and promote healthy muscles and bones
* PawPaw - Protect and encourage healing of paws
* TF-Defense- Treat Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses
* Wound Dr. - Cleanse, heal and prevent infection in cuts, scrapes and irritations of all kinds

“I wanted to tell you how much your capsules have helped our much loved family cat. We have tried many things but have not had the same success as we have now.” - Deidre M.

“PetAlive will definitely be my first resort from now on… My animals are my world and the natural way just makes so much more sense!!!!” - Gayle.

“Your PawPaw formula has been just the thing for my cat Topsy’s problem paws! He is the adventurous type and is always hurting his paws in some way or another. PawPaw has been very effective at soothing his injuries as well as speeding up healing. It is great to see him walking without a limp for a change! ” - Theresa

Cold water followed by Lavender oil, as soon as possible.

From “The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy” by Valerie Ann Worwood

About healing

Healing after surgery or an accidental injury can be a slow and painful process for your pet. Depending on the extent of the injury or operation, this can take days or even months. There may be internal or external wounds and bruising - or even (in the case of injury) broken bones and damaged organs. They cannot understand what is happening to them or why and this makes it very difficult to see them in pain and often immobilized.

The physical process of healing involves restoration and regeneration of connective tissue, blood vessels and nerve fibers. White blood cells have to remove infection and red blood cells have to bring oxygen rich blood and nutrients to the surrounding area. Effective pain control will help to make your pet comfortable, prevent stress and permit healing rest.

How can natural remedies help?

Your pet’s body has the inherent ability to heal itself from any injury, whether this is surgery or an accidental injury. The immune system and healing potential of animals’ bodies is one of the greatest miracles of nature! Provided that you give your pet proper care and nurturing, healing will take place by itself.

Natural remedies can harness your pet’s innate healing mechanisms, speeding up the recovery process while also providing pain relieving, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Best of all, they can do this without the side effects and complications often associated with prescription drugs.

What is PetAlive PetHeal?

PetHeal, like all the PetAlive products, is a natural healing remedy and contains a blend of both herbal and homeopathic ingredients. This remedy is taken internally and helps to speed up the healing process, relieve pain and reduce inflammation - thereby promoting a quick recovery from accidental injury or surgery.

PetHeal is the ideal post-surgery or post-injury treatment. It contains natural ingredients well-known for their ability to speed up the healing process and help to make things easier and more comfortable for your pet. It may be taken along with most prescription medication given post-operatively.

Use PetAlive PetHeal:

* To encourage complete and rapid healing
* To aid recovery after an operation or injury
* For natural pain relief
* To strengthen your pet’s immune system
* As an alternative or supplement to prescription anti-inflammatories

What are the ingredients of PetHeal?

PetAlive PetHeal contains the following 100% natural ingredients:

Astragalus membranaceous (Huang Qi) is an herb which has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for many centuries as a revitalizing tonic. Recent research also confirms the positive effect of Astragalus on immune functioning and its ability to help the body fight against illness and disease. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory herb and very effective at promoting the healing of wounds and injuries as well as chronic skin conditions, sores and abscesses.

Echinacea angustifolia is the best known and researched herb for stimulating the immune system. Over 500 scientific studies have documented the effectiveness of this herb. Research has shown that Echinacea increases the activity of the immune system cells, stimulates new tissue growth for wound healing, reduces inflammation and inhibits growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Arnica (30C) is a highly respected ingredient in homeopathic medicine and has powerful anti-inflammatory and tissue healing properties. It is used extensively to treat shock, injury and bruising and for post-operative care. Arnica also helps to control bleeding. Although this herb is potentially toxic in its raw state and is therefore only used externally, homeopathic manufacturing methods ensure that Arnica is safe to use internally and is unparalleled in its effectiveness for post-trauma healing.

Calendula (30C) is a homeopathic ingredient which acts systemically to heal wounds and prevent or treat infections. This ingredient is highly effective in aiding post-operative recovery, reducing scarring and treating pain.

(PetAlive PetHeal contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

How has PetHeal helped others?

“My plucky little daschund was quite badly hurt after getting into a fight with a bigger and more street-wise dog than himself. He had broken ribs, a couple of teeth knocked out and plenty of cuts and scratches. It’s not the first time something like this has happened to him so I kind of knew what to expect: a couple of weeks of nursing and pampering the little rotter until he felt he had recovered enough to go and pick another fight! I decided to try your PetHeal remedy and was amazed at how quickly he was up and about again- the remedy really made a big difference to his recovery. Within 10 days he was almost completely himself again and we had finished putting up a fence to keep him inside the yard. Thanks for a great product- hope Mac doesn’t need it again too soon!!!” - Cindy L

“I was very worried about my cat Ginger having surgery as she is getting on in years. Happily, the surgery went very smoothly. I also gave her PetHeal to speed up her recovery and I was blown away at how she bounced back after coming home…… She stayed in hospital for 2 days after the surgery and when she came home she was groggy and clearly still in a lot of pain. I feel sure that it was your natural remedy that helped relieve her pain and get her back on her feet within days of coming home. Thank you for this wonderful product- I’m going to keep it on hand for any mishaps that might occur with Ginger or my other cats.” - Yvonne D

How do I use PetHeal?

PetAlive PetHeal comes in convenient tincture form. The drops are easy to administer to pets and may be mixed with food or a treat.

Directions:

Mix drops in a favorite treat two to three times daily. Length of use depends on the extent of injury or surgery. Continue for 6 - 12 weeks or until your pet has made a good recovery.

Dosage:

Cats and small dogs: 2 - 3 drops.

Medium dogs: 5 - 8 drops.

Large dogs: 8 - 12 drops.

Caution: Do not use for a week prior to surgery. Please consult your veterinarian should symptoms persist. Safety during pregnancy and nursing not yet established. May be used together with PetAlive Immunity and Liver Support.

How long until we see results?

Because every injury and animal is different an exact number of time is impossible to predict but a much faster and easier healing process will be noticed compared to animals which do not use the remedy.

How long does one bottle last?

One 50 ml bottle of PetHeal will last for 15 - 60 days, depending on the size and needs of your pet.

About your pet’s paws and pads

Your dog or cat may often walk over rocks, soil, thorns and snow ,even if confined to your yard. Unlike us humans, our pets don’t have foot-protection in the form of shoes and although their paws and paw-pads are much tougher than our feet, they do sometimes suffer from cuts, wounds, bruising, cracks and even burns. You should check and care for your pets’ paws regularly to treat any injuries and prevent infections.

What is PetAlive PawPaw?

PetAlive PawPaw contains a blend of natural, healing and cleansing ingredients in a soothing olive oil base to effectively condition the paws and pads as well as treat any small wounds or injuries to the paw pads.

Cleansing with PetAlive Clenzor is recommended.

Use PetAlive PawPaw To:

* Condition and protect pets’ paws and pads
* Prevent infection of small wounds on the paws
* Encourage healing of small cuts and wounds
* Prevent bruising and cracking of your dog’s paw pads
* Reduce inflammation and soothe the paws and pads

What are the ingredients of PawPaw?

PetAlive PawPaw contains the following 100% natural, herbal ingredients extracted in a base of medicinal olive oil:

Hypericum perforatum is also called St. Johns Wort and is commonly used as an internal remedy for treating depression and other ailments. Applied topically, as it has been in ancient European folk tradition, Hypericum perforatum heals and soothes all types of superficial wounds as well as burns.

Calendula officinalis (Marigold) is an herbal ingredient used to treat skin problems and promote healing. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory and prevents infection with its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. Marigold has also been shown to assist the regeneration of damaged skin tissue.

Plantago lanceolata has long been considered a useful remedy for inflamed skin, burns, bites and small wounds. This herb has soothing and healing properties and acts as a mild astringent when used topically.

(PetAlive PawPaw contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

How has PetAlive PawPaw helped others?

“My family lives on a farm and we have always loved to have dogs who can roam around freely on our property as well as keep us company in our home. For all the years, we have had a problem with thorns and sharp stones etc. getting stuck in our dogs’ paws. These may sometimes go unnoticed and some of our poor pets have ended up with very painful paws and even infections.

“A few months ago I was searching for some type of natural, healing ointment on the internet and came across your site. I ordered the Clenzor and PawPaw products and have since implemented a routine of ‘paw care’ for all of our dogs every evening. Each dog’s paws get cleaned and checked for any small objects or cuts and PawPaw is applied to any little wounds. Since doing this we have not had a single problem with our pets’ paws and they have been running around carefree on the farm- just the way we love to see them! Thank you PetAlive!” - Kate P.

“Your PawPaw formula has been just the thing for my cat Topsy’s problem paws! He is the adventurous type and is always hurting his paws in some way or another. PawPaw has been very effective at soothing his injuries as well as speeding up healing. It is great to see him walking without a limp for a change!” - Theresa

How do I use PawPaw?

Directions: After cleansing, apply to affected paw two to three times daily. Cleansing with PetAlive Clenzor is recommended.

Caution: For external use only. Please consult your veterinarian should symptoms persist.

How long until I see results?

Soothing effects will be immediate. With regular use over several days, condition and healing of the paw and pad will improve.

How long does one bottle last?

One 30 ml bottle of PawPaw will last for 20-40 days, depending on the size and needs of your pet.

Minor injuries in pets

Both dogs and cats often fall victim to minor cuts, scrapes, bites and stings- especially those with outdoor lifestyles and adventurous natures! Cuts and scrapes, abrasions, insect bites, fights with other animals - all can result in a miserable pet with consequent risk of infection. Like people, animals can also suffer from allergies and reactions to plants like Poison Ivy and Poison Oak.

Most of these little injuries heal fairly quickly on their own and without long-term adverse effects, especially in healthy pets with strong immune systems. However, the immediate pain, discomfort and swelling can be unpleasant and debilitating for your pet and it is important to care for these wounds appropriately. Also, there may be a high risk of infection in otherwise minor wounds if they are not properly cared for.

How can natural remedies help?

Because of the risk of infection, pet wounds are often treated with antibiotics - taken internally or applied as a cream to the skin. They may also be treated with topical corticosteroid creams. While these can be effective in the short term, many holistic vets believe that they may also compromise your pet’s health by affecting immune functioning.

Topical antibiotic, corticosteroid and antiseptic creams are also often licked off by pets and can contain substances that may not be good for them to ingest.

Certain herbs and homeopathic ingredients are excellent for soothing pain and reducing swelling of wounds, bites, insect stings and other minor injuries and skin allergies. Gentle promotion of natural healing, as well as prevention of infection- without antibiotics- has been practiced by herbalists for thousands of years and can be of great benefit to your pet.

What is PetAlive Wound Dr.?

PetAlive has brought together the best of herbal and homeopathic ingredients - known for their effectiveness in treating abrasions, cuts, burns, bites, insect stings and skin allergies.

Wound Dr. contains a blend of natural, healing and cleansing ingredients in an herbal cream and will promote healing and prevent infection, as well as soothe the affected area and reduce swelling, pain or itching.

Use PetAlive Wound Dr. To:

* Treat and protect small wounds and stings
* Relieve pain caused by skin conditions and minor injuries
* Prevent infection of wounds and cuts on the skin
* Encourage healing of wounds
* Reduce inflammation and soothe insect stings
* Treat the symptoms of poison ivy

What are the ingredients of Wound Dr.?

PetAlive Wound Dr. contains the following 100% natural, herbal ingredients in an aqueous cream base:

Althaea officinalis root (marshmallow) is an excellent and well known remedy for soothing inflamed skin and mucus membranes and promoting healing. Marshmallow root is good for abscesses, boils and other skin conditions.

Melaleuca alternifolia is also known as Tea Tree Oil and is used externally for inflammation and to treat various skin conditions. This oil has excellent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and healing properties. Tea Tree Oil will soothe and reduce inflammation of the skin as well as treat any bacterial or fungal infections.

Plantago lanceolata has long been considered a useful remedy for inflamed skin, burns, bites and small wounds. This herb has soothing and healing properties and acts as a mild astringent when used topically.

Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) is well-known as a topical pain reliever and antiseptic/disinfectant herb. Several of the compounds in rosemary have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.

Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) is used topically to treat skin irritation and conditions. It also stimulates circulation and promotes skin healing.

Ledum 6X is a homeopathic remedy known to treat stings and bruises effectively as well as prevent infection of wounds.

Apis 30C is also used homeopathically for bee and wasp stings as well as any skin conditions causing swelling and itching. Burning pain and skin that is over-sensitive to the touch are relieved by Apis.

(PetAlive Wound Dr. contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

How has PetAlive Wound Dr. helped others?

“My little Jack Russell, Smokey, is always getting cut and scraped running through bushes etc. in our yard. He has a very energetic and adventurous personality which I love but he certainly pays the price with all his injuries. Your PetAlive Wound Dr. has become a standard in our medicine cabinet as it always helps Smokey’s cuts and injuries to heal faster and seems to help with the pain and swelling too. Thought I’d let you know how much we love your product. ” - J Genevieve

“I bought Wound Dr. for my new puppies who were a bit rough with each other and didn’t always know their own strength. It was great for soothing cuts and scratches from their rough and tumble games. Yesterday one of them was stung by a bee on the nose and was clearly in a lot of pain. A dab of Wound Dr. calmed the redness and swelling and Sammy’s crying stopped within minutes! We love this cream- thank you!” - Casey D.

How do I use Wound Dr.?

Wound Dr. cream comes in a 25 ml tube.

Directions: After cleansing, apply to affected area three times daily. Cleansing with PetAlive Clenzor is recommended.

Note: For external use only. Please consult your veterinarian should symptoms persist. May be used together with PetAlive Immunity and Liver Support for natural antibiotic action.

Caution: In the case of insect stings or contact with poison ivy, please seek medical treatment if there is any swelling of the mouth or tongue or if your pet appears to have any difficulty breathing.

How long until I see results?

Soothing effects will be immediate. With regular use over several days, condition of the skin will improve and healing of the wound will take place. Try and begin treating your pet as soon as possible as the sooner that cleansing and treatment begin, the quicker and more effective the healing process will be.

Minor injuries and skin conditions in pets

Cuts, scrapes, bites and stings, ringworm, flea-bite dermatitis and many other similar injuries and conditions affect cats and dogs fairly commonly. Though minor, these can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. Treating these problems quickly, effectively and naturally will save your pet from numerous side-effects, shorten healing and recovery time as well as prevent more serious complications like infection.

As any vet will tell you, one of the most important and first steps in addressing a wound, injury or skin condition is to keep it clean and the sooner that this is done following injury or trauma, the more beneficial the intervention will be. Broken or irritated skin is vulnerable to infection and contamination.

By following a thorough cleansing routine before applying topical treatment like creams, you are also helping your pet to heal more quickly and preventing the need for more intensive medical care.

What is PetAlive Clenzor?

Surgical alcohol or saline solution is often used to clean and disinfect wounds and skin conditions and both can be very effective. PetAlive Clenzor is an herbal topical tincture which has similar cleansing and disinfecting properties, but also contains a blend of natural ingredients all specially chosen for their cleansing, soothing, disinfecting and healing properties.

PetAlive Clenzor is formulated to effectively cleanse and disinfect your pet’s wounds, skin conditions and small injuries before you begin further natural treatment for the particular condition. Used together with our other PetAlive topical creams and tinctures, Clenzor effectively cleanses, disinfects AND begins the healing process, while also providing soothing and analgesic relief for pets with a range of skin conditions like wounds, bites, abrasions, ringworm, fleabite dermatitis, poison ivy rash, paw injuries, etc.

Use PetAlive Clenzor:

* Clean and disinfect minor wounds, cuts and grazes
* Cleanse areas of inflammation and flea-bite dermatitis
* Prevent infection of wounds and cuts on the skin
* Clean and disinfect fungal skin infections like ringworm
* Clean skin affected by contact with poison ivy and prevent further irritation

What are the ingredients of Clenzor?

PetAlive Clenzor contains the following 100% natural, herbal ingredients in a topical, herbal tincture:

Hamamelis virginianum (Witchhazel) is an excellent astringent and cleansing herb and will reduce inflammation, bleeding and pain. It has long been used by Native Americans to relieve the swelling, bruising, & bleeding of external injuries. Witchhazel also treats and prevents skin infections.

Calendula officinalis (Marigold) is an herbal ingredient used to treat skin problems and promote healing of wounds. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory and prevents infection with its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. Marigold has been shown to assist the regeneration of damaged skin tissue.

Melissa officinalis is also called lemon balm and is well-known for its soothing and calming properties when used topically. Lemon balm is useful when used to clean areas of eczema or applied to boils. Also used as a soothing salve for insect stings and bites and to treat viral outbreaks such as herpes.

Urtica urens is excellent for healing and pain relief and can be safely and effectively used to cleanse minor burns, hives and itchy skin eruptions. This herb also has astringent properties and will help to stop bleeding.

How has PetAlive Clenzor helped others?

“My little Jack Russell, Smokey, is always getting cut and scraped running through bushes etc. in our yard. He has a very energetic and adventurous personality which I love but he certainly pays the price with all his injuries!!! Your PetAlive Clenzor and Wound Dr. have become standard in our medicine cabinet as they clean any scrapes and cuts beautifully and his injuries heal faster with these remedies. The remedies also seem to help with the pain and swelling. Thought I’d let you know how much we love your products.” - J Genevieve

“Your Clenzor cleansing remedy for pets is great- cleans out grit and dirt from every little cut and scrape with ease and without the horrible burning I know many commercial disinfectant and cleaning products cause my dog. A useful and wonderful natural product - I am ordering more today!” - Natasha L.

How do I use Clenzor?

PetAlive Clenzor comes in a 50 ml topical tincture.

Directions: Using clean hands and a clean cotton wool swab, apply directly to affected area when needed. Wear gloves when treating pets exposed to poison ivy. Urushoil, the active ingredient in poison ivy, is very potent and remains on your pet’s skin and coat long after exposure.

PetAlive Clenzor may be used together with PetAlive Wound Dr, PetAlive Ring-Ex, PetAlive PawPaw or PetAlive FleaDerm.

Caution: For external use only. Please consult your veterinarian should symptoms persist. If any swelling of the mouth, tongue or eyes - or any breathing difficulties - are noticed after exposure to poison ivy or insect bites, please seek urgent medical attention for your pet.

How long until I see results?

Cleansing and soothing results will be immediate.

Ever consider a first aid kit for Fido or Fluffy? There are a number of items and techniques to help a pet stay comfortable until professional help can be reached. Of course in any emergency situation, your veterinarian should be notified for immediate treatment.

Choking - The Heimlich Maneuver can be very effective for pets. Even if your vet is just a phone call away, every pet owner should be able to perform this life saving technique. Be sure to ask your veterinarian how to properly perform the Heimlich Maneuver on your pet.

Burns - Thermal burns on pets are treated much the same way humans treat burns. Apply a topical, soothing ointment such as aloe vera or Vitamin E oil to promote healing and ease the sting of the burn. Electrical burns are very serious, as they can stop a pet’s heart, so contact your veterinarian immediately if this is the case.

Poisoning - One good product to keep in your first aid kit is activated charcoal. This is commonly used for children as well. Activated charcoal will absorb toxins or poisons that were ingested, so that it can harmlessly pass through the digestive system.

Wounds - If your pet has a fresh, bleeding wound, try to subdue the animal and apply pressure with a cool, damp, cloth. Hold firmly for 10-20 minutes. If you are unable to stop the bleeding during this time, contact your veterinarian. Consider using a light wrap such as an ace bandage, and change this bandage frequently. A topical antibiotic ointment may be helpful to speed healing and keep wound clean.

Abrasions - Run cool water over the scrape several times daily to promote cleaning and healing. A topical healing ointment may be used. Bandages for abrasions are not usually recommended.

Sprains and Strains - Apply a cool compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area to reduce swelling and ease pain. Warm and cool compresses may be alternated to increase circulation and promote healing.

Broken Bones - After calling the veterinarian, try to stabilize your pet by comforting him/her. Try to keep pet as calm and quiet as possible. A cool compress may be used to help keep swelling down, but generally the area will be very painful and sensitive to the touch. Makeshift splints and bandaging are not recommended for those who have no training in this area.

Smart pet owners will be prepared for any emergency. Be sure to have your veterinary emergency contact information in an obvious location (such as posted on your refrigerator or home message center).

About the author

Jennifer Horning has worked in the veterinary field for over 10 years as an assistant to a veterinarian homeopath/nutritionist.

Comfrey poultice for sprains and sore muscles and bruises

Soak chopped comfrey root in hot water, preferably for 1 day.

Soak a clean cloth in the strained tea and apply, or bandage if possible, to the sore area.

Repeat 3 times a day.