Issuu

ANIMAL

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS HEALTHY

Holiday Treats!

HOW SMART are dogs SEE WHAT THE STUDIES SHOW

WHICH DOG BREEDS

How cats think: THE

ARE THE BRAINIEST?

SCIENCE BEHIND FELINE COGNITION

TOP 10

FOODS AND SUPPLEMENTS FOR DENTAL HEALTH

FUN INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR WINTER DAYS

STEM CELL THERAPY FOR DOGS AND CATS

Inside!

WINTER 24/25 Display until Feb. 15th, 2025

INNOVATIVE PET PRODUCTS GUIDE

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 1

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Columns

CONTENTS Winter 2024

20 CUTTING EDGE CARE

Regenerative medicine for dogs and cats — Part 1 Unlock the secrets of vitality with this two-part article on regenerative medicine for dogs and cats. We look at how stem cell therapy and other treatments help slow aging and enhance health.

22 DENTAL CARE

Features 8

anine cognitive abilities — C how smart is your dog? Did you know canine cognitive abilities compare to those of a human toddler? Research reveals amazing facts about our dogs' intelligence and mental skills.

op 10 dental health foods and T supplements for dogs and cats Keep his teeth and gums in tiptop condition with these top 10 dental health foods and supplements for dogs and cats.

keys to help your dog 16 5adapt to urban living

Learn how to adapt your dog to urban living with 5 essential tips covering exercise, socialization, stress relief, and more.

eginner’s guide to clicker 42 Btraining dogs

Learn the best way to teach your dog new behaviors with this beginner’s guide to clicker training dogs.

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Toothpastes and toothbrushes for dogs and cats

Learn how to choose the best toothpastes and toothbrushes for dogs and cats to maintain their dental health and prevent expensive oral care. Keep their smiles healthy!

24 KNOW YOUR CAT How cats think: the science behind feline cognition

Find out how recent research into feline cognition shows that cats are highly intelligent creatures with remarkable problemsolving skills.

26 HEALTH WATCH

Idiopathic epilepsy in dogs: what you need to know Here’s how an integrative approach combining alternative therapies and conventional medications can help control idiopathic epilepsy in dogs.

30 TREAT TALK

Healthy holiday treats for dogs Make the season even more festive for your best friend with these easy and healthy holiday treats for dogs.

32 AT HOME

20 indoor winter activities for dogs and cats Keep her happy and healthy during the colder months with 20 engaging indoor winter activities for dogs and cats.

34 BRAINY BREEDS Top 10 smartest dog breeds

Check out the top ten smartest dog breeds and why some are truly top of the class!

38 ANIMAL

50 TOY BOX

BODYWORK

Bond with your cat using Tui Na — a 10-minute session Tui Na, also known as acupressuremassage, is an effective way to connect to your cat. This ten-minute session helps you strengthen your bond.

How to choose the right toys for your dog Looking for the perfect holiday gift for your furry friend? Discover how to choose the right toys for your dog.

56 TRAVEL TIPS

Quick Guide to Traveling with Cats

45 SPOTLIGHT

Shayba the solider cat Along with Alex, his human counterpart, Shayba the soldier cat provides a beacon of hope in the midst of the Ukraine war.

Whether you’re moving or going on holiday with your cat, these tips make sure she stays as healthy, safe, and stress-free as possible while traveling.

46 EATING WELL

60 ANIMAL HERO

Improve your dog’s quality of life by using diet therapy to boost his organ health.

Former chef’s rescue foundation saves stray dogs in Thailand

Ozone therapy is an exciting and promising treatment option for dogs and cats. It can fight infection, reduce inflammation, support the immune system and more.

73 CANINE SPORTS

80 SAFETY FIRST

The Man That Rescues Dogs

Diet therapy for organ health in dogs

Nose work for dogs: enriching your best friend’s life through scent Discover why nose work is a great way to add mental and physical enrichment to your dog’s life — and build a better bond between you.

24 Departments 6 From the Editor

61 Innovative Pet

Products Guide

11 Newsworthy 29 Product Picks

82 Marketplace

49 In the News

82 Classifieds

53 Holiday Gift Guide

83 Let’s Get Social

Social Media

76 MODALITY HIGHLIGHT Understanding ozone therapy: a comprehensive guide for dog and cat parents

Nighttime dog walking visibility gear As winter brings longer nights, keep your dog safe on walks with high-visibility gear such as light-up harnesses and reflective coats.

Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Nutrition videos, recipes and more! Animal Wellness Magazine

Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine

Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness

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Top

Keep his teeth and gu ms in tiptop condition with these top 10 dental health foods and su pplements for dogs and cats.

BY DR. SUZI BEBER, HONORIS CAUSA

Dental health foods and supplements D gs Cats ts a c d n a s g o d for

Dogs and cats are as prone to dental problems as we are. Oral health needs to be part of every animal’s wellness regimen, and includes veterinary checkups, regular home brushing, and a proper diet. This article focuses on the best dental health foods and supplements for dogs and cats.

1 BEE PROPOLIS Also known as “bee glue,” bee propolis has so much to offer. Studies have shown it has a variety of applications in veterinary medicine. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent alternative remedy for infected gums and sores in your dog or cat’s mouth. Use one drop per pound of body weight.

2 BONES (RAW) Cooked bones spell “danger” to our dogs and cats, but raw meaty bones provide the calcium necessary for building strong teeth. They’re also great for cleaning the teeth, helping to prevent the tartar formation that leads to gum inflammation. Raw bones also contain probiotic bacteria and enzymes that support healthy bacterial flora in the mouth. These help fight harmful bacteria, like Streptococci actinomyces. Choose organic marrow bones and knuckle bones for dogs (it’s a good idea to supervise your dog while he’s chewing on a bone). Organic chicken necks and backs are perfect for cats.

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3 COCONUT OIL Coconut oil is rich in lauric and caprylic acids. These mediumchain fatty acids have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Lauric acid makes up almost 50% of coconut oil. For teeth cleaning, choose organic, virgin coconut oil. Simply add a few drops to a pet toothbrush, or use a cotton make-up remover pad, gauze pad or Q-tip.

4 COENZYME Q10 This powerful antioxidant supports heart health. It also helps keep gums healthy. Consider adding a CoQ10 supplement to your dog or cat’s diet. It’s best absorbed in oil — e.g. organic first pressed olive oil. The suggested dose is 0.25 mg to 1 mg per pound body weight. Check with your vet before adding this supplement to your dog or cat’s diet plan.

5 CRANBERRIES Studies show that pure cranberry juice may work against cavities. It is also effective for bladder infections. Cranberries contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, condensed tannins, and other compounds.

Researchers from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and New York’s Rutgers University found that many special substances in cranberries inhibit the enzymes associated with dental plaque formation. They can also stop bacteria from sticking to surfaces. These compounds also prevent acid formation and reduce the acid tolerance of the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

6 FENNEL Fennel is a close relative of parsley, carrots, dill, and coriander, all of which have beneficial dental properties. Fennel’s phytonutrients include flavonoids like rutin, quercetin and kaempferol glycosides. It is packed with vitamin C, has anti-inflammatory properties, and will help freshen your animal’s breath and fight gingivitis. Cooked fennel can be added to your dog or cat’s diet plan or try fennel seed tea by steeping one teaspoon of fennel seeds in eight ounces of boiling water (be sure to cool completely before serving). Glycerine fennel tinctures are also available.

7 GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT

One of nature’s antiseptics, grapefruit seed extract (GSE) can be used both topically and internally. Immunologist Dr. Jacob Harich popularized it in the 1970s. He was searching for a natural, non-toxic alternative to antibiotics that helps the body resist bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. He found what he was looking for in the seeds and connecting tissue of the grapefruit. SE exhibits significant antimicrobial activity at low concentrations, so always dilute it before using it — place one to six drops in five ounces of water, then use a Q-tip or gauzecovered finger to gently clean your animal’s teeth and gums.

8 PARSLEY (CURLY) One of the world’s most concentrated food sources, parsley has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also includes lots of vitamin K and chlorophyll, making it a perfect breath freshener. When mixed into your dog or cat’s food, parsley tea provides most of what the dried or fresh herb offers.

Making parsley tea is very easy. Place ¼ cup fresh parsley or 2 tablespoons dried parsley in a small bowl and add 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain, cool and serve. For dogs, consider adding 1 teaspoon per ten pounds body weight to meals; for cats, try 1 teaspoon per day, added to drinking water.

9 SAGE Sage has a long history, going all the way back to the ancient Romans, and was very popular in early medicine. Powdered sage leaves were sprinkled on food, just like pepper. This herb provides vitamins A, E, and K. It also contains a variety of trace minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc. It has antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. This makes it another herb to consider for your dog or cat’s oral care. It can be given as a tea. Alternatively, you can mix the fresh or dried leaves with water to create a paste that can be rubbed on your animal’s gums.

10 WILD STRAWBERRY Wild strawberry (Frageria vesca) has a colorful history and has long been revered for its healing properties. The fruit’s acid cleans the teeth. Meanwhile, the seeds act as an abrasive. Wild strawberries can be mashed into a paste and used to remove tartar and clean teeth. Frageria vesca also comes in the form of a homeopathic remedy (6C) that can help prevent tartar buildup on your dog or cat’s teeth. It softens the tartar, allowing you to remove it with a soft toothbrush. Administer 1/2 to 1 dropperful once a week. Alternatively, add 20 drops to a water dish each week. Results should be seen within one month. Be sure to check with your vet before trying any homeopathic remedy. You need a multi-faceted approach to maintain good dental health in your animal, with diet playing a big role. These dental health foods and supplements for dogs and cats can take his oral wellness to the next level by helping to keep his teeth and gums strong and healthy.

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s e p i c Re

The following recipes incorporate some of the dental-supportive foods and herbs highlighted in the article. Use organic ingredients whenever possible.

Cran-Crisp

Ingredients • 2 cups whole grain flour of your choice (e.g. oat, which supports strong teeth, spelt, or Red Fife) • 1 can wild salmon (or try “pole and line” tuna, mackerel, or sardines) •¼ cup pure cranberry juice •¼ cup filtered water • 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional) • 2 tablespoons fresh catnip or 1 tablespoon dried catnip for cats and 2 tablespoons fresh oregano and curly parsley, or 1 tablespoon dried, for dogs •¼ cup finely chopped fresh cranberries or sun-dried unsulfured cranberries

Instructions Preheat oven to 325°F. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender, until thoroughly combined and the dough pulls away from the side of the bowl.

Turn dough out on a clean, lightly floured surface and divide into six balls. Knead each ball, then roll each into a circle about ¼” in thickness. Alternatively, you can roll out the dough and cut it into any shapes you like. Sprinkle flour on the rolling surface, and the rolling pin, as needed. Place the rounds on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Score the surface of each round with a knife or pizza slicer. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn your oven down to 175°F and bake for another 30 minutes. Turn your oven off and let the rounds cool completely before gently breaking them into scored pieces and storing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

ogs D r o f z it r p S h t u o Minty M Ingredients ract • 1 0 drops grapefruit seed ext Piperita) essential • 6 drops peppermint (Menta hest quality, oil (important: use only the hig labeled for culinary therapeutic-grade essential oils ic for dogs to ingest!) use — other brands can be tox on teaspoon Ceylon Cinnam •¼ ter • 7 ounces filtered wa

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Instructions k glass or opaque Combine ingredients in a dar use. Spritz in your spray bottle. Shake well before each day — three to dog’s mouth up to four times need! Don’t be surprized five short pumps are all you r a “spritz!” Store in if your dog smacks his lips afte the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Award-Winning Dental Delights

• 2 cups cooked chicken giblets (hea rts, liver, gizzards) • 1 tablespoon dried oregano • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley • 1 tablespoon cold pressed olive oil or hemp oil (for a twist, you can even try cranberry or blueberry oil) • 1 whole egg • 1½ cups stone ground whole grai n flour (e.g. oat, spelt, or alternative flours like hemp or quin oa) • ¼ cup cranberry essence or finely-m inced sun-dried unsulfured cranberries • 1 egg white • parmesan cheese

Instructions Place chicken giblets in a medium-size d pot and cover with filtered water. Bring water to a boil, skim the particulates from the surface, then turn down to simmer for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Cover two coo kie sheets with parchment paper for easy clean-up. In a food processor or blender, com bine all ingredients except the flour. Blend until you hav e a thick paste, then add the flour slowly, so it’s well inco rporated. Add a bit more oil or filtered water if your dou gh is too dry, or a bit more flour if it’s too wet. Dust your hands with flour and spri nkle it on a board or countertop. You can use oatmeal in place of flour. Knead

the dough well, then roll it out to ¼” thickness on a sheet of floured wax paper or parchment paper. Cut the dough into desired shapes and sizes; or take small pieces of dough, roll out to the thickne ss of a pencil, and cut into small treats like mini biscotti. Bake for 30 minutes. Turn the oven down to 200ºF and remove the cookie sheets from the oven . Beat or whisk the egg white until soft peaks begin to form. Baste the biscuits with the egg white, then libe rally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Return the biscuits to the oven and bake for another 45 minutes. Turn the oven off and leav e the biscuits until they are completely cool. This recipe yields more than 50 med ium-sized biscuits. It can easily be doubled. They store well in the refrigerator and also freeze well. NOTE: It has been over two dec ades since I first created this recipe and entered it in a magazine contest. It then went on to app ear in a veterinary text with the following commen ts: “It is possible, believe it or not , to prevent, or, at the least, slow down gum erosion with a hard type of biscuit that contains antibacteri al herbs known to prevent the occurrence of infe ction.”

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AT HOME

BY ANNA MCCLAIN

Keep her happy and healthy during the colder months with 20 engaging indoor winter activities for dogs and cats.

IND O OR WINTER AC TI V IT IE S for dogs and cats D gs Cats

Keeping your dog or cat healthy and happy is just as important during the winter as at other times of the year. But depending on where you live, the weather may often be too cold, snowy or icy to stay outside much. These 20 indoor winter activities for dogs and cats will help keep her fit and content through the winter — both physically and mentally.

Pretend to disappear behind a blanket in front of your dog by holding it up and stepping out of the room as it drops. Just make sure she’s able to find you quickly.

Blow bubbles for your dog or cat and watch his playful antics. Always use non-toxic, pet-friendly bubbles — you can purchase them online or at pet stores.

ENTERTAINING ENRICHMENT INSIDE THE HOUSE

Create new toys for your cat from cardboard paper towel rolls or crumpled paper balls.

Play tug of war with your dog’s favorite toy — you can make a tug toy by tying a clean hand towel/blanket into a knot. This can entertain her for hours, especially if treats and praise are involved!

se laser light toys to play with your cat. Never flash the U light into his eyes, and let him “catch” the light to satisfy his innate hunting skills.

lay games of hide and seek or chase with your dog. P Remain in one or two large rooms and award her with extra cuddles when she finds or catches you!

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NEW INDOOR TRICKS AND SPORTS FOR FUN AND FITNESS Indoors is the best place to teach your dog a new trick

7 — and no animal is too old to learn! Tricks can include rolling over or balancing a treat on her nose.

Create an obstacle course for your dog or cat using household items such as blankets, towels, ramps, pop-up tunnels, boxes and poles. Keep your animal’s age and mobility in mind when you create the course. Start by guiding him through course a few times to help him learn the layout.

9 included in this relaxing form of exercise.

Do yoga with your dog or cat — animals often love being

Take an indoor walk with your animal and add new sights (e.g. new toys) and smells (e.g. healthy treats for dogs, or catnip for cats) to the route to add interest and reward.

LEARN HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG OR CAT A MASSAGE.

MAKE HEALTHY FOODS AND TREATS PART OF THE INDOOR FUN

Bake a treat together with your dog or cat using animalfriendly ingredients. Keep her interested by giving her small samples to enjoy along the way (e.g. plain pumpkin, cheese, blueberries, etc.) Remember to strictly avoid chocolate, raisins and grapes. Don’t give her anything sugary.

Learn how to massage your dog or cat. For example, T-Touch, gentle stretches, and ear scratches can be soothing. It helps ease pain and increase circulation (very beneficial for senior animals with mobility issues). You’ll find many guidebooks, videos, and classes for learning pet massage.

Read your dog or cat a story, or softly sing her a song. She’ll love listening to the sound of your voice even if she doesn’t understand the words.

Have your dog or cat participate in a Zoom session with a friend or family member. This will help prevent her socialization skills from getting rusty.

Meditate with your dog or cat nearby or on your lap. Just sitting quietly, focusing on your breathing and quieting your mind, can have a calming effect on your animal. Curl up together for a winter’s nap, especially

20 comforting after a long day of playing indoors! These indoor winter activities for dogs and cats will entertain the whole family — human and animal. They can easily be interchanged or replayed on a daily basis. And don’t forget the best benefit of all. You’ll keep your dog or cat entertained, enriched, and exercised throughout the winter, while forming memories of joy and mischief!

Use puzzle toys/feeders to hide food or treats and

12 encourage your animal to work for the reward. 13

Share mealtimes together. Feed your dog or cat at the same time you sit down for your own breakfast or dinner.

COMFORTING CONNECTIONS FOR COLD DAYS

Cuddle with your dog or cat while watching a funny or heartfelt movie or holiday flick. Or watch silly animal videos together on TikTok or YouTube — you’ll love seeing your dog or cat’s reactions to these!

Perform a physical “tail to nose” examination of your dog or cat while you’re relaxing together. He’ll enjoy the physical contact. Thoroughly check for any unusual lumps or bumps, sore spots, or skin problems to bring to your veterinarian’s attention.

BLOW BUBBLES FOR YOUR DOG OR CAT AND WATCH HIS PLAYFUL ANTICS.