Pet Parents to Discontinue Use of Affected Products Immediately

NEW YORK, September 13, 2008 - The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today advised pet owners to discontinue using certain dog and cat foods manufactured by Mars Petcare US, which has voluntarily issued a nationwide recall because of potential contamination with Salmonella serotype Schwarzengrund. This voluntary recall only affects several brands of dry pet foods in the United States including Pedigree, Special Kitty, Paws & Claws, Natural Dog Food, Red Flannel, Country Acres, Buju & Ziggie, Member's Mark, Natural Cat Food, Retriever, Bruiser, Doggy Bag, PMI Nutrition, and Pet Pride. For a complete list of affected brands and more information on the recall, please visit http://www.petcare.mars.com .
"The ASPCA recommends that pet parents discontinue the use of all affected products immediately until further information has been received," said Dr. Steven Hansen, the ASPCA's Senior Vice President of Animal Health Services. "Pet parents should wash their hands after handling any potentially contaminated pet food and immediately consult with a veterinarian if any signs or symptoms are noticed in their pets."

The recall may affect several brands that are widely distributed at pet specialty stores, supermarkets, mass retailers, as well as other retail and wholesale outlets.

In an emergency situation, pet owners may also call the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435...The ASPCA®

This past year we celebrated our puppy boy Maxxamillion's 12th anniversary with us October, 2007. We picked up our Maxxamillion twelve years ago on snowy December 23rd and we've been loving him more and more ever since. We fell in love with him as soon as we saw him. He was a golden fluffy little ball of fur that weighed six pounds, with adorable blue eyes, a cute pink little nose and a crooked little walk.


Our puppy's first reaction walking into his new home was so amazing to me, because what I thought might be a little uncomfortable for him or maybe even a little scary, was totally the opposite. Maxx walked in, took one look around and wobbled over to the first object he saw, which happened to be a red kitchen floor mat. Immediately he started wrestling with the floor mat, biting it and fiercely snapping his head from side to side. We were so touched and tickled at the same time that we started laughing. It was so funny to see such a tiny little thing wrestling with a kitchen mat that was five times bigger than he was. We were still giggling at this sight when Maxx suddenly finished, looking so beautiful, out of breath and tired. Then he gathered himself, left the mat in a bunch and began exploring the rest of the house.

We were so happy that Maxx felt so comfortable in his new home.

Two years ago our dog Maxx of ten years got very ill just after he had fully recovered from a surgery that removed a cancerous tumor. Our vet told us that this was it and that it was only a matter of time that our boy would pass away, there is nothing I could do for him, we were told. Well we were absolutely not going to give up on our loving companion of ten years so easily. My feeling was that this vet had an agenda with us because of a complaint I had recently expressed about one of his employees that hurt Maxx by incorrectly trying to lift him.

Shortly thereafter disappointed and heart-broken we took our boy home, putting him down was not an option. He is family and we would not give up on him so easily, especially when we could see so much life and love in his sparkling eyes. My husband and I started researching on the internet for alternative medicines for dogs.

Fortunately, we found medicinal options that we felt would safely help Maxx get started on his way to getting well again. Many of these medicines we read about were holistic and although we live in a big metropolitan area, some were not locally available. However, we were fortunate to find that some of the holistic medicines we needed for Maxx were sold on-line, while several others were available in stores a short distance away.

Over a short time of giving Maxx these holistic medicines, his health began to steadily improve. Although Maxx's overall health steadily improved, he still suffered from arthritis in the joint of his right front paw, which occasionally caused him to limp.

In addition to the holistic medicines we also found a great animal holistic rehabilitation center fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. We also learned it provided acupuncture for pets. The center had multiple rehab equipment, one of them being an underwater treadmill which Maxx could use to rehab his rear legs without putting weight on them. We could also get his acupuncture treatments all in one visit. The staff was great, and made us feel right at home. The veterinarians had vast experience in animal rehabilitation as well as being well versed in Chinese and Western herbs. After a few months of taking Maxx to the clinic we were able to arrange for Maxx to receive his acupuncture treatments at home twice a month.

We are so happy to say that these holistic medicines have turned our boy Maxx's health completely around and we recently celebrated his twelfth birthday (10/07)! The holistic approach has let us enjoy Maxx for two more wonderful years and counting. Just like humans, always get a second opinion if in doubt.
by: Diana Romaxx (c)2008

Just like in humans, cancer in dogs is a very serious condition which can seriously impact the life of both the dog and its owner. As with
humans, cancer in dogs is on the increase and today, excluding accidents, almost half of all dogs aged 10 or over are likely to die from
the disease. One of the most common cancer in dogs is the mastocytoma (or mast cell tumor), which is what our family dog Maxxamillion was
recently diagnosed with. What a shock this was to my husband and I because we had taken Maxxamillion to the vet two years earlier for a
fatty tumor that was growing around the top of his left front leg. A biopsy was done and we were informed that the tumor was comprised of
fatty matter and at that time the test showed no sign of cancer. The cause of mast cell tumors is unknown.

The statistics on cancer in dogs was a bit alarming to us, and in fact, the current rate of cancer is higher in dogs than it is in humans.Incidences of cancer in dogs are very difficult to accurately estimate. On average, the highest incidence of cancer occurs in dogs 6 to 10 years of age. Because dogs can't tell us where it hurts, medical treatment for dogs is very different from the medical approach for humans.

According to our veterinarian, Maxxamillion's cancer was spred by the tumor cell itself. Other studies indicate that one of the most
common cause of cancer in dogs is commercial dog food toxins, and preservatives in their diet. Cancer in dogs is always tough to handle because treatment can't be administered as aggressively to them as it is to humans.

Dogs today are a big part of our families and we want to give our loyal companions the best medical attention we can. Early detection and treatment are the best ways to manage cancer in dogs. Treatment of Cancer in Dogs is usally treated by conventional forms of radiation therapy. There are different treatment options for cancer in dogs. Each tumor type within a location has a different treatment and prognosis. Canine Lymphoma is another common form of malignant cancer in dogs. Your pet's diet should most often be low in fat and calories.

One of the options that was recommended to us by our vet for treatment was radiation therapy. Although we live in a big metro city, the problem is that there are very few veterinary clinics that offer this radiation thereapy treatment. Radiation therapy, can also be very grueling on an older dog, and also very expensive. Moreover, it is not a suitable treatment for many cancers. The closest treatment center that we could find for Maxxamillion was over 40 miles away. Before radiation, our vet recommended that we
talk to an encologist about having a 3d ct scan done to determine if the cancer cells had spread beyond the tumor that was removed, but actually, Maxxamillion had two tumors removed, and each tumor weighed 3 pounds. The first tumor did appear in the x-ray and when the vet removed it, he found the second tumor that was hiding. The first tumor was benign and only the second tumor was cancerous. A 3-d ct scan entails putting an animal under anesthesia.

The 3-d ct scan would determine the extent of the cancer or if he was cancer free. Although our vet assured us that the cancer was contained within the tumor he had removed, and there was a possiblility that some cancer cells may have gone beyond the tumor. We were advised that it would be best to take Maxx for his 3-d ct scan five days after the surgery, at which time it was still very difficult for Maxx to move and walk, but we figured that if this was the best fight he had, it was better to go ahead with the radition. Unfortunately, it is an expensive procedure. The radiation therapist also informed us that because Maxx was overweight he would run the risk of complications because fat does not allow the anesthesia to metabolize as it does in thinner dogs. Maxx's 3-d ct scan was performed. After the procedure, which took approximately four hours, Maxx woke up from the anesthesia and was allowed to come home. Max was still groggy from the anesthesia 12 hours later, which we knew might happen because he was overweight.

Due to the fact that it scared us so much and that we would lose him to the anesthesia, we and the therapist came to the decision that it
would be best to monitor Maxx and hope for the best at his age. We didn't want to inflict any more suffering on our baby. Radiation would
have consisted of 25 daily visits with anesthesia being administered each time. If the tumor does come back there is a possiblty that he can have surgery again. For now he is 11 years old and doing much better. He lost a little bit of his step, but he still walks around, plays a lot, goes for short walks, and has fully recovered from his tumor operation.

The Author: Diana Romaxx

Holistic Pet Blood & System Herbal Formula
An excellent blood cleansing formula. Its alternative action rids the blood vessels, lymphatics, and muscles of toxic materials while toning the muscles. This is an effective system or liver cleanser, and can be used as an adjunct in debilitated animals, for degenerative and immune disorders. This product was made in a FDA approved facility using human-grade ingredient
Following is a list of the herbs in this formula and the properties for which they were selected.

* Buckthorn Root (Rhamnus frangula) excellent purgative
* Burdock Root(Arctium lappa) one of the best alterative and depurative agents in nature, and restores the liver
* Echinacea Flower, fresh (Echinacea angustifolia) excellent blood purifier, and is strongly anti-viral, influences the complete lymphatic system
* Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) acts as a mild laxative, and makes the formula more palatable, soothes and softens the mucous membranes
* Oregon Grape Root (Berberis aquifolium) excellent for the skin, and is a good blood purifier
* Poke Root (Phytolacca americana) aids in cleansing the blood vessels, lymphatics, and muscles of toxic materials
* Peach Bark (Prunus persica) increases vascular circulation, and is similar to B17 or laetrile in action, has an affinity for chronic bladder conditions and neoplastic disorders
* Prickly Ash Bark (Xanthoxylum clavaherculis) has lignan called fagarol which enhances digestion and healthy metabolic function
* Red Clover Flower (Trifolium pratense) alterative that is a gentle yet powerful blood purifier - used to fight cancer for over 100 years, relaxes nerves and the entire system
* Sarsaparilla Root, Jamaican (Smilax officinalis) a blood purifier, or spring tonic, saponins in the root helps with digestion.

Power Mushrooms is a Ganoderma (Reishi) Herbal Formula that combines the four most commonly used mushrooms in Chinese herbal medicine. Two of these, Ganoderma and Tremella, help strengthen and stabilize the organ systems of your pet's body. The other two, Poria and Polyporus, assist the digestion and assimilation of the other mushrooms. The effect of this herbal combination is overall energy stabilization and resistance to stress and illness (tonifies Qi). Power Mushrooms can be taken with Astra 8 for additional energy and defense system enhancement. Ideal for immune system support, cancer care, and geriatric animals.

Approximately 25-30%
of family pets suffer from osteoarthritis. The stiffness, pain and swelling in a pet with arthritis is really no different than what you as a human being would experience. Arthritis in pets, as in humans, is a debilitating disease that greatly affects your pet's health and well being. With the onset of arthritis, also known as De Generative
Joint Disease (DJD), a happy, playful Fido or Fluffy
can quickly turn listless and pain ridden.
Approximately 25-30% of family pets suffer from osteoarthritis. The stiffness, pain and swelling in a pet with arthritis is really no different than what you as a human being would experience. Arthritis in pets, as in humans, is a debilitating disease that greatly affects your pet's health and well being. With the onset of arthritis, also known as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), a happy, playful Fido or Fluffy can quickly turn listless and pain ridden.

Types of Pet Arthritis:

* Osteoarthritis is a chronic, slowly progressing condition that is caused by the breakdown and destruction of your pet's cartilage. As that occurs, the bony structures begin to rub against one another causing pain and discomfort.

* Degenerative Joint Disease involves some kind of a breakdown or destruction in portions of the joint, usually cartilage. Just as in the case of osteoarthritis, this condition does not necessarily mean that your pet is experiencing any inflammation.

* Hip Dysplasia is characterized by a malformed "ball and joint" socket in your animal. As you might expect, this ill-fitting combination causes a series of complications. Here, chronic inflammation is common; calcium build-ups occur; there is muscle pain, and the tissue in the surrounding areas begin to break down.

* Elbow Dysplasia is a like condition that is typically hereditary and most generally found in larger breeds of dogs. Bones become malformed and usually results in "bone chips" that are very painful. Typically, your pet will exhibit some lameness when suffering from this condition.

* Knee (dysplasia) is also characterized by malformed bones and bone "chips." It is painful and often obviates itself since the pet is lame and/or limping as the condition progresses.

* Knee (stifle) joint typically involves torn ligaments which cause instability in the joint. Dislocation of the (knee) joint is also a problem. Inflammation is common since this is a joint that is subjected to a lot of stress and strain. In most cases it is a result of poor breeding.

* Osteochondrosis, is a condition when you are contending with a medical condition, results from poor breeding. Improper or inadequate diet can also cause this condition (both factors may be at play). It is characterized by cartilage deterioration and tissue that is generally both inflammed and painful.

* Hypertrophic arthritis involves excessive bone growth and/or "spurs" on the joints themselves. In such situations, the pet is typically experiencing a lot of pain.

* Shoulder (degeneration) is usually a multi-factorial situation making a clear-cut cause difficult to isolate. An unstable joint, osteochondrosis or even trauma may be the cause. (Or, a combination of factors).

* Wrist arthritis (carpi) might be compared to "carpal tunnel syndrome" seen in humans. Usually, this area of the pet's body is affected more frequently with pets who are very active.

* Kneecap (dislocation) is usually caused by poorly formed leg bones which secondarily, allows the kneecap to move or "pop" out of its normal position. Usually, this is either an inherited condition or results from poor breeding.

If you are not sure which condition your pet has, or wish to read more information on the specific types, Paw Here for a full description.

Dogs love the flavor of chocolate, but chocolate in sufficient doses is lethally toxic to dogs (and horses and possibly cats). Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical stimulant that, together with caffeine and theophylline, belongs to the group of methylxanthine alkaloids. Dogs are unable to metabolize theobromine effectively. If they eat chocolate, the theobromine can remain in their bloodstreams for up to 20 hours, and these animals may experience fast heart rate, hallucinations, severe diarrhea, epileptic seizures, heart attacks, internal bleeding, and eventually death. A chocolate bar can be sufficient to make a small dog extremely ill or even kill it. Approximately thirty grams of baking chocolate per kilogram (1/2 ounce per pound) of body weight is enough to be poisonous. In case of accidental intake of chocolate by especially a smaller dog, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control immediately; it is commonly recommended to induce vomiting within two hours of ingestion. Large breeds are less susceptible to chocolate poisoning, but still are far less tolerant of the substance than humans are.

Note:Carob treats are often available as dog treats; these are unrelated to chocolate and are safe.

* It has recently been confirmed that grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs (see also grape and raisin toxicity in dogs). The exact mechanism is not known, nor is there any means to determine the susceptibility of an individual dog. While as little as one raisin can be toxic to a susceptible ten pound dog, some other dogs have eaten as much as a pound of grapes or raisins at a time without ill effects. The affected dog usually vomits a few hours after consumption and begins showing signs of renal failure three to five days later.
* Onions, and to a significantly lesser extent garlic, contain thiosulfate which causes hemolytic anemia in dogs (and cats). Thiosulfate levels are not affected by cooking or processing. Small puppies have died of hemolytic anemia after being fed baby food containing onion powder. Occasional exposure to small amounts is usually not a problem, but continuous exposure to even small amounts can be a serious threat. Garlic is also known to cause diarrhea and vomiting.
* Macadamia nuts can cause stiffness, tremors, hyperthermia, and abdominal pain. The exact mechanism is not known. Most dogs recover with supportive care when the source of exposure is removed.
* Alcoholic beverages pose much the same temptation and hazard to dogs as to humans. A drunk dog displays behavior analogous to that of an intoxicated person. (However, beer presents another problem; see below.)
* Hops, a plant used in making beer, can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs, usually with fatal results. Certain breeds, such as Greyhounds, seem particularly sensitive to hop toxicity, but hops should be kept away from all dogs. Even small amounts of hops can trigger a potentially deadly reaction, even if the hops are "spent" after use in brewing.
* Xylitol is a sugar substitute used in chewing gum, chewable vitamins, candy, toothpaste, and other products. Although empirical studies (1, 2, 3) indicate xylitol may be safe for dogs, there have been cases of foods, candies and gums containing xylitol causing toxic or even fatal liver damage in dogs and should be avoided (1, 2, 3).
* Some dogs have food allergies just as humans do; this is particular to the individual dog and not characteristic of the species as a whole. An example is a dog becoming physically ill from salmon; many humans likewise have seafood allergies.
* If dogs eat the pits of fruits such as peaches and apricots, they can get cyanide poisoning due to cyanogenic glycosides. From Wikipedia

In a life and death situation when every minute counts for an animal, you can call the ASPCA Poison Control Center. They are the premier animal poison control center in North America, the APCC is your best resource for any animal poison-related
emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, make the call that can make all the difference: (888) 426-4435. A $60 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.

Or visit their Web Site also a great source for answers to your questions about what foods are toxic and even lethal to your dogs such as chocolate, avocados, grapes-raisins and much more Paw Here

Discover the terrifying-truth about commercial dog food that kills thousands of dogs across the US every single day. Dog Care Expert, Andrew Lewis, with Noble before his death in 2003. Any dog that eats commercial dog food is almost certain to die prematurely and by the time symptoms are noticeable, it's too late to prevent an agonizing death except by lethal injection..... Paw Here

Simply Fido Organic Pet Toys are made of organic fabrics and all-natural dyes. Organically grown, the fibers in each toy are unbleached, untreated, and unprocessed. Natural extracts from plants and minerals, such as gardenia seed, clove and chestnut bur, are used to dye the fibers. Toys are 100% environmentally friendly!

In 1985, Professor R. Wolter of the Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire in Alfort, France, formulated his "Ten Commandments" for feeding dogs. These ten rules, reproduced in part below, will help dog owners avoid the most common errors with regard to the practical aspects of feeding dogs.
1. Give the Dog Plenty of Water to Drink

Cool, potable water should be available to the dog at all times and should be replaced frequently. Average water consumption is sixty milliliters per day per kilogram of body weight, or higher in puppies, lactating bitches, working dogs, or in hot weather.

2. Change Food Gradually

Any change in a dog's diet should be gradual, over a period of one week, so the dog's taste, digestion, and metabolism can adapt, and so that its intestinal microflora, which is much more adapted to the type of food eaten than that of humans, can be reconstituted as a function of the new food.

3. Feed Regularly

A dog is happiest when it eats the same food every day, from the same dish, and at the same time and place. The number of meals depends on the dog's physiological state, which should be frequently evaluated.

4. Control the Amount of Food Eaten

The size of the portions given is calculated as a function of the dog's daily energy needs and the number of calories the food contains. Portion size should be re-evaluated often to avoid any decline into obesity, and should be changed as the dog's weight changes.

5. Give the Dog a Balanced Diet

Whether the food is homemade or commercial, it should contain all the nutrients the dog needs, in sufficient quantities and in proportions appropriate for the dog's size (small, medium or large breed), physiological condition (maintenance, breeding, sport), age (puppy, mature adult, old dog), and pathological state if need be.

6. Choose the Dog's Food Carefully

The choice of food is not insignificant. Nutritional balance should be the overriding consideration. There are three basic criteria for choosing the right food for a dog: its age (puppy, adult, mature adult, or old dog), its level of physical or physiological activity (active dog, sporting dog, breeding dog), and its size (small, medium, or large).

7. Use the Food Properly

The manner in which the food is given is just as important as what is in the food. This is why, when feeding commercial food, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions. When feeding homemade food, certain words should never be heard, namely "My dog eats what I eat," "My dog eats what he wants," and "My dog only eats..." Finally, table scraps, sweets, sugar, cake, and chocolate have no place in a dog's diet. (It would be better to give the dog bits of rind from cheese.)

8. Cleanliness is Next to Godliness

Commercial foods offer the best guarantee of healthful cleanliness. Used properly, they present no risk of food poisoning. Open cans of dog food, fresh food, or defrosted food should be kept cold, and dry food should be kept in its re-closed bag in a dry place. If the dog does not finish its meal, the remaining food should be thrown away. The dog dish should be washed every day.

9. Keep Track of Individual Results

A diet's effectiveness, and the effects of any changes, should be kept track of through such simple indicators as changes in weight, the health of the dog's hair, the characteristics of its excrement, its appetite, and its day-to-day behavior.

10. Do not Hesitate to Consult the Veterinarian

By training, a veterinarian is also a dietitian for both sick and healthy dogs. Consult your veterinarian for persistent lack of appetite or bulimia, abnormal weight loss or gain, persistent diarrhea or constipation, worrisome physical or behavioral problems, or any notable changes in thirst or appetite that might be signs of a general illness requiring a thorough examination.

Maxxamillion's Dog House

Traumeel has been used for over 50 years in Europe as a safe, effective and prescription-free (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)Traumeel Tablets is what Maxxamillion was given by his Holistic Vet. His improvement was just remarkable. The best part was he had no side effects and we did not neeed to resort to the more dangerous NSAIDs. Traumeel Tablets are used for the temporary relief of symptoms, including mild to moderate pain, associated with inflammatory and arthritic conditions. Traumeel is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic homeopathic product used in dogs, cats for the temporary relief of pain and inflammation. It has helped Maxxamillion.

One of the most important decisions that you can make as a pet owner is choosing where to take your pet for medical care. One of the best ways to learn about veterinary hospitals in your area is to simply ask around. Inquire where your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors go and if they can make any recommendations. We found our dog's veterinarian through recommendations from our friends at our local park.

Another way that you can search for a new veterinarian doctor or hospital is by looking on-line or through the yellow pages. There will certainly be a lot of listings that will include information about licensing, certification, a list of services, office hours, etc., and although it's important to look for specific qualities when choosing a veterinarian, location is also a big factor. But don't decide to go to ABC Animal Hospital just because it's closest to your home. It's possible that by driving a few more extra miles you could find a veterinarian that could provide you with more specialty services that might even save you more money in the long run.

Many veterinary hospitals cater to working individuals by offering late office hours. This can be a godsend especially if you are dealing with a pet that has a chronic disease or a condition that requires regular check-ups and prescription refills. Some hospitals also offer 24-hour care and emergency services on-site while others will refer you somewhere else, even during regular business hours. Be sure to ask about emergency services when seeking out an animal hospital so that you can be prepared in case something unexpected happens.

Be sure to visit any hospital where you plan to take your pet. While visiting you could also ask if you can possibly take a tour of the facility. Pick up brochures to take home with you such as a price list of sevices offered, etc. You may read information about how to choose the right "doctor" for your pet and it is important to feel comfortable with your pet's veterinarian, so don't be afraid to ask questions. Remember this could be your pet's veterinarian for many years to come.

The intimacy that a one-doctor veterinarian hospital offers can be very reassuring because when something goes wrong with your pet you will always see the same doctor. However, a one-doctor staff also means that office hours are going to be limited, especially when the doctor goes on vacation, leaves for a conference or an unexpected emergency. So it would be a good idea to discuss these scenarios with your veterinarian. He may have a veterinarian colleague that temporarily fills in for him while he is away or he may offer another alternative solution.

In any event, you might also consider making alternative plans with another veterinarian hospital so that you have other options when your regular veterinarian is not available. You would have great peace of mind knowing that someone else will be there as a back-up in case your pet became ill, someone to call if you needed advice or simply to ask a question.

Planning your pet's medical care takes time and energy, but is well worth the effort, because once you have found the care and services of a good veterinarian, you know that these were the important decisions that helped to provide the foundation of your pets good health and long life.

The 88 degree water was level with his chest and the therapist was also inside the tank helping support Maxxamillion with a flexible brace. He did very well walking gently on the underwater treadmill. This treatment will help strengthen Maxxamillion's muscles, increase his range of motion and endurance. After a few sessions of therapy, We're so happy to see improvements and that he's feeling better. Although Maxxamillion has only received a few treatments, we've noticed that they've really made a big difference. Maxxamillion is actually walking slightly longer distances around the house and yard without any assistance. He has also been more playful in the evenings. We're so happy that he's improving and feeling better.

This Guide deals with all the common problems and ailments suffered by dogs. It covers issues like toothache and dental trouble, ear infections, skin rashes and chafing, eye irritations, worming issues, and lameness; chronic problems like vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, asthma, breathing trouble, and liver problems; more severe issues like arthritis and cancer; and symptomatic "alerts" like hair loss, lethargy, and behavioral changes.